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Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (7/24/20)

Will Jeff Hardy conquer the Celtic Warrior AND temptation?

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WWE SmackDown Coverage 3.0

SmackDown takes on the big issues!

Jeff Hardy battles Sheamus and temptation in a Bar Fight, Naomi “continues the conversation” on Miz TV, and the Golden Role Models talk the landscape of the WWE Women’s Division!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • SmackDown Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Nikki Cross VS Alexa Bliss; Nikki wins and will face Bayley for the title next week on SmackDown.
  • Matt Riddle VS Tony Nese; Riddle wins.
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship #1 Contender’s match: Drew Gulak VS Chad Gable VS Lince Dorado VS Gran Metalik; Metalik wins and will challenge AJ Styles for the title next week.
  • Bar Fight: Jeff Hardy VS Sheamus; Hardy wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Superstars hype up SmackDown!

“Hello. My name is Jeff Hardy, and I am an alcoholic.” And tonight, he faces Sheamus in the environment that is his enemy: a bar. Sheamus’ bullying is the manifestation of everything Hardy dislikes about himself. “I repeat, my name is Jeff Hardy, and tonight, I beat the holy hell out of Sheamus!”

But Sheamus replies with a chuckle. “Jeff, after I beat you tonight, it’s gonna dawn on ya. This is truly where you belong.” If you want to talk about struggles, Hardy will be in a very familiar place: wallowing on the cold, hard floor of that bar, struggling to stand. And that ache in his head won’t be a hangover. It’ll be courtesy of a Brogue kick. Hardy will be crushed by this defeat, and the only thing that’ll make him feel better is crawling back to the gutter, bottle in hand, and drowning his sorrows.

JBL says if anyone knows about mud, blood and beer of a bar fight, it’s him! He’ll save predictions for later, but he does know this will be a great one. Emotions are running higher than the blood alcohol levels in an APA poker game, and Sheamus VS Hardy, “We fight here on Friday Night!”

The bartender is preparing Irish Shannon’s for the fight, and has even dreamed up some new cocktails in case anyone gets thirsty. Who will be saying bottom’s up when this all goes down?

 

The Golden Role Models are here!

#BayleyDosStraps and the would-be #TwoBeltsBanks strut down to the ring with the WWE Women’s Tag Team, SmackDown Women’s and Raw Women’s Championship belts in hand, but only three of those rightfully belong to them. Extreme Rules saw each best friend help the other survive their matches and walk away with the singles titles BUT! Sasha “won” thanks to referee Bayley. They’re dripping in even more controversy than they are gold, but they’re still going to boast and brag as they hold up their belts and grab the mics. “Do you guys wanna know what ‘greatness’ means in the dictionary?” Greatness is defined by the quality or state of being great, as in size, skill, achievement or even power.

But that’s the old definition. After taking over the WWE Women’s Division, does anyone want to learn the NEW definition? Greatness is being THEM! They said they’d get all the gold, and when they saw it, they mean it. They don’t just talk the talk, they walk it! The crowd chants “You Suck!” but Bayley says they don’t suck! Do you idiots know how hard it is to walk the walk with all this gold weighing them down? So from this point on, the Women’s Evolution is OVER! It started with Bayley and Banks, and it will end with Bayley and Banks! They officially usher in a new era! An era of greatness! The Era of Sasha and Bayley! That’s a… creative name…

So to all the kiddies sitting at home, looking up to them, just know that if you do great things, one day your dreams will come true. And no matter how hard you try, you’ll never be as great as them!! But wait! Here comes Bliss-Cross! Nikki says Sasha is a fraud and she is sick of this nonsense! They’re ruining SmackDown and the Women’s Championship! They stole those belts! The Era of Sasha and Bayley is already over! Did she forget to take her rabies meds? Alexa says this isn’t a good idea. Nikki says she had a shot at the SmackDown title and all she has to show for it is cracked ribs! She was replaying it in her head, and she’ll take her anger out on both of them! Bayley’s first as Nikki wants a rematch for the title NOW!

Hold on, settle down. At Extreme Rules, Bayley won “fair and square.” But being the role model, she will lead by example. Their show, SmackDown, is the land of opportunity. Nikki can have her rematch, if she beats a worthy adversary in a former SmackDown Women’s Champion and future hall of famer, HER OWN FRIEND, ALEXA!! And the winner faces Bayley next week! Nikki and Alexa realize the trap set, but only Nikki wants to go through with it. They have to do this! Nikki shoves Alexa?! Then storms to the ring! Have Bayley and Sasha found a way to break up Bliss-Cross?

 

SmackDown Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Nikki Cross VS Alexa Bliss!

SmackDown returns, and while these two best friends have entered the ring, Bayley and Sasha have joined commentary. The bell rings, Nikki circles with Alexa and tie up. They go around, Nikki powers Alexa to ropes but Alexa turns it around. They end up in a corner, the ref calls for a break, Nikki backs off. Nikki and Alexa circle again, tie up, Alexa gets an arm but Nikki rolls and wrenches to a wristlock. Alexa steps through to hammerlock but Nikki drops, rolls and reverses to a wristlock. Alexa pries the hold, steps through and rolls Nikki, ONE! Both women back off to circle again. Nikki rolls Alexa, ONE!

The crowd cheers the exchange, Nikki and Alexa tie up again. Alexa headlocks, hits the takeover but Nikki headscissors. Roles reverse, Alexa headscissors but Nikki pops out and the two stand off. Nikki grows frustrated as she circles with Alexa. Bayley and Sasha like the competition, Alexa headlocks Nikki. Nikki powers out, Alexa ducks and dodges then runs Nikki over! Alexa runs, Nikki drops then arm-drags Alexa around! Nikki has an armlock, Alexa endures, Nikki whips Alexa to a corner. Alexa dodges, but Nikki sees the slap coming! “You tried to slap me?!” “You shoved me!” Nikki elbows Alexa back then hops up. Tornado but no DDT, Alexa spins out but Nikki breaks free! Alexa SLAPS Nikki, Nikki LARIATS Alexa!

Bayley and Sasha are surprised as Nikki rallies on Alexa with clotheslines and a dropkick! Nikki runs in to corner splash then whips Alexa into buckles for another splash! BULLDOG! Cover, TWO! Alexa lives and Nikki glares at Bayley. Nikki drags Alexa up, Alexa spins out of the neckbreaker to hit the STO! And a basement dropkick! Nikki bails out, Alexa catches her breath and then runs, but into the skirt trap! Alexa knows that too well and ROCKS Nikki first! Bayley and Sasha go wild as Alexa BOOTS Nikki away! Alexa frees herself from the skirt as Sasha and Bayley egg them on. So Nikki and Alexa both CLOBBER Bayley and Banks! The crowd goes wild for that as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Nikki and Alexa brawl on opposite sides of the rope. Alexa throws another, Nikki grabs her hair but Alexa SLAPS and shoulders Nikki back. Alexa kicks Nikki down then wrecks her with a dropkick! Nikki is down and Alexa lets the ring count climb. Nikki gets in at 4, Alexa kicks her to a corner. Alexa stomps away on Nikki then snapmares Nikki to a keylock. Nikki endures as Alexa cranks on the arm. The crowd rallies up, Nikki fights up but Alexa KNEES the ribs! Alexa kicks the bad ribs more and that surprises the Golden Role Models. Alexa drops knees but Nikki bails out. Alexa pursues, Nikki knees back but Alexa shoves them splashes Nikki into barriers! Alexa goes back to the ring while the ring count climbs again.

Nikki stands at 5, crawls in at 6, but Alexa is on her with clubbing forearms. Alexa KICKS Nikki and Bayley mockingly starts dueling chants, “Let’s Go, Nikki!” “Nikki Sucks!” Alexa hits Insult2Injury! Cover,TWO! Nikki survives but Alexa lines up a shot to KICK her in the back! Nikki gets to a corner, Alexa rams her shoulder in. The ref counts as Alexa digs in, but Alexa lets up at 4. The crowd rallies up, Alexa throws Nikki down by her hair, then goes back after the arm with the stretch. Nikki flails, Alexa stands on her and KICKS her again! Alexa keeps on the stretch but Nikki still endures. Alexa digs her elbow into the ribs but Nikki fights her way up! Nikki arm-drags free and hits a jawbreaker!

Nikki throat chops, headbutts and throws forearms! She backs Alexa down then fires off in the corner. Nikki bumps Alexa off buckles again and again and again and again! The ref counts, Nikki tops it off, then climbs up top. Nikki reels Alexa in, but the tornado is denied again! Alexa BOOTS then hops up to SUNSET BOMB! Cover, TWO!! Alexa is losing her cool but she goes to the corner. She climbs up, but Nikki stops her with forearms! Nikki and Alexa fight, Alexa resists the superplex and clubs Nikki down. Alexa adjusts, hops over Nikki but Nikki spins her for the straitjacket neckbreaker! Cover, TWO! Nikki and Alexa both grit their teeth as the crowd rallies up.

Nikki fireman’s but Alexa slips out. Nikki standing switches, INVERTED DDT! Cover, TWO! Alexa still lives and Nikki is losing her cool. Nikki hurries back to a corner, back up top, and CROSSBODIES only to flop! She clutches her ribs as Alexa hurries over. The ref keeps her back to check on Nikki. Nikki insists she’s okay, and she gets Alexa in a cradle! NIKKI WINS!

Winner: Nikki Cross, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the SmackDown Women’s Championship)

Nikki has her rematch! Will Bayley have to actually do things fair and square this time? Will Sasha get through Asuka to officially have the Raw Women’s Championship this Monday?

 

Nikki is excited backstage.

She has that second chance at the SmackDown Women’s Championship! Alexa walks over and admits she lost. Nikki wants to apologize but Alexa also speaks. Nikki lets Alexa go first. Alexa says she thought back to Nikki saying she hasn’t gotten the same chances as her. But this one, Nikki earned. And Alexa is happy for her. They’re still friends and they hug it out. Now, time to focus on beating Bayley and become the NEW SmackDown Women’s Champion. Nikki can do this!

 

SmackDown presents a new Firefly Fun House!

First, a recap of the Swamp Fight between Braun Strowman and the Eater of Worlds, complete with narration by Firefly Bray. The swamp, the shadow of his former self, as well as his deepest desires. These were the things the Monster Among Men had to face on top of Bray’s brutality. Just when it looked like Braun had conquered his demons, his demons dragged him down into the depths! But what emerged was not the New Face of Fear, but THE FIEND!

The head lantern is back! YOWIE WOWIE, that sure was fun, huh? Firefly Bray says a family reunion always warms his soul. Braun came home~! He knows some are worried Braun is trapped for all eternity in that “filthy, disgusting, stinky swamp,” but it’s okay! That swamp is 100% certified organic. The lantern whispers but Bray says his job is done for now. And sorry, he can’t let that Bray out again. Listen, man. You had your chance. “It’s his turn now. He has been unleashed.” Yes, The Fiend is coming. Bye~! Have a great day! Say bye, lantern head! Mwah!

 

Matt Riddle VS Tony Nese!

Bro… The Wolf King attacked The Original Bro after the phenomenal WWE Intercontinental Championship match with AJ Styles last week. However, Riddle doesn’t seem to sweat it as he goes up against the Premier Athlete. Will Baron Corbin show up again to try and run more of the fun?

The bell rings, they tie up and Riddle waistlocks to slam Nese down! Riddle floats around, gut wrenches and suplexes Nese! He holds on to do it again! Riddle drops the BROTON! Cover, TWO! Riddle drops another! Cover, TWO! Nese scrambles to ropes and throat chops back! Nese gives Riddle the bulldog hotshot! And PREMIER TRIANGLE! Cover, TWO! Riddle gasps for air but Nese puts on the body scissors squeeze! Riddle endures and the crowd rallies up. Riddle pries at the hold, but Nese chinlocks instead. Riddle gets up with Nese as a backpack, to then pop him up into position, but Nese fights out of the slam! Riddle boots Nese then forearms in the corner! Side to side for another forearm, then a BROSPLODER! Riddle runs to Penalty Kick Nese! Nese rises up, Riddle gut wrenches, tucks and BRO DEREK! Cover, Riddle wins!

Winner: Matt Riddle, by pinfall

Riddle wins to get back up from his loss to Styles, and grabs a mic to speak. “I’m kinda new here, so I don’t know how this works, but I’m gonna give it a try.” King Corbin, Riddle’s calling you out, bro. “C’mon, bro, let’s go.” Corbin appears! He has a mic to respond, “Matt, look, buddy. You are right, you don’t know how things are.” You can’t just call someone out! Certainly not the king! You need to give a formal request. Though that request will be rejected. Riddle doesn’t belong in Corbin’s kingdom, he’s just not ready. Riddle has talent and the “new car smell,” but that smell fades. then what’s left? A frat boy with no shoes who looks like he just rolled out of bed.

Riddle doesn’t belong in a professional environment like SmackDown. No, he needs to go back to NXT for a little more seasoning. Or better yet, after that win there, he could go to 205 Live and be a “top guy.” Corbin is so confident that Riddle doesn’t belong here, Corbin is putting out a “King’s Ransom” to anyone that can prove Riddle doesn’t belong in Corbin’s kingdom. “Bro, you’ve got it all wrong.” Riddle isn’t a helpless subject in some weird, made up subject. But Corbin is the next special guest on The Bro Show! Nese sneaks up on Riddle but gets a ROUNDHOUSE! Corbin says there’s a price on Riddle’s head, but will anyone be able to cash in? Or will Riddle dethrone the Wolf King first?

 

The Miz and John Morrison review video backstage.

Now they’re up to speed on the buzz around Naomi. What about Morrison? He was steamrolled by a man who thinks he’s a train! Doesn’t Morrison deserve better? And think about #FridayNightDelightAlright! Convoluted but it rhymes. Or maybe #JohnMorrisonIndubitablyDeservesBetter. Indubitably? Who can even spell that? HashtagJohnMorrisonIsTheMasterofTheHashtag, but spell out “hashtag” both times. What? They have a show to do. Let’s go. It’s not that complicated… But will the Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century be able to clear things up about The Glow and the WWE Universe?

 

JBL gives his Bar Fight predictions!

“A couple of things I know a lot about and love, and that is going into a bar and fighting!” He has been in some of the toughest bar fights imaginable with one of the toughest men around, Ron “Farooq” Simmons! He is speaking from experience that Hardy and Sheamus need to be ready. This is unpredictable, there’s beer on the floor, bottles on the shelves and “some local yokel idiot” that needs to be put out. Everything you get hit with in there is going to hurt. This isn’t about talent but will. Sheamus is tough, a true deal, but the Hardy Boys won their first tag titles off JBL and Ron Simmons. Jeff has been incredibly innovative and fearless. “There’s nothing like a man fighting for redemption.” Hardy gets JBL’s pick.

 

SmackDown presents Miz TV!

Miz and Morrison are already in the ring for the Most Must-See WWE Talk Show! They know that the key to staying relevant is keeping up with whatever has the most buzz, even if you don’t understand why! True! Morrison and Miz have trend forecasters, which are like weather forecasters but they’re super nerds. And yet those guys told Morrison to wear that shirt in 2020? Yeah, Canadian tuxedos, slacks and sunglasses will definitely get #MoreMorrison to trend worldwide. What if it doesn’t? Well then he’d be sick. How sick? Four Seth Rollins puking sick! And Rollins doesn’t look too good. Did he stop tanning and exercising? Is he depressed?

Moving on! The guest tonight is what the “internet hive mind” has been raving about for a week! It’s NAOMI! Naomi makes her entrance as fans think #NaomiDeservesBetter. Miz and Morrison kick step and floss as Naomi joins them in the ring. She grabs a mic as Miz tries to fix his stanky leg. Are they done? They take their seats and Naomi admits Miz has some moves. They welcome her to the show and bring up the “heartbreaking loss.” Yet despite all that, it was Naomi, not Lacey Evans, that trended worldwide. It is crazy how the fans support her. It isn’t always easy to come out with a smile on her face and push herself in the ring, but she does because of the millions of people counting on her.

And this was not the first time this year. Her return at Royal Rumble was big, too. Though, she didn’t win that. Then Miz doesn’t get it. Him and Morrison going viral for hit music videos, that makes sense. But Naomi does it after losing? Shouldn’t Lacey be the one everyone talks about? Yeah, how does losing make Naomi feel? Not good, right? Probably really bad. Like sick even? Seth Rollins level sick? Does Lacey make Naomi sick? Naomi says these two are making her feel pretty sick. How sick? They want a number, and it’s FIVE Seth Rollins puking! That’s sick! But fans don’t like weak stomachs. No one trends doing that.

Naomi doesn’t want to trend. She asks why fans are with her through thick and thin and upset that Lacey attacked Naomi after karaoke. That is the conversation right there. Oh, Miz didn’t have any of that. Well then Naomi asks them questions. Why do they feel they get to pass judgment on someone and the fans supporting that someone? Naomi has shown up and shown out for the last decade, giving it her all! That is why fans care and support her, and why they want more for her. Does she need to explain? NO, no! Miz did not expect this to get so confrontational. Morrison apologizes to Naomi, because it’s only getting worse! A SURPRISE guest! It’s Lacey Evans!

The Sassy Southern Belle struts her way out and Naomi is in a worse mood. Lacey enters the ring, has a mic, and asks the “gentleman” a question. Did you ever get beat up so bad that you got a pity hashtag that went viral? Naomi has been here a decade, has little to show for it, and is just about as washed up as ever. “Bless her heart.” Naomi shoves Lacey and messes up her lipstick! Lacey throws hands but Naomi gives them back! Naomi kicks Lacey out of the ring and Lacey grabs her bag. Lacey sees the line on her face and the lipstick in her teeth and is furious! The Glow gets the better of this exchange, will #Rematch be trending worldwide?

 

Big E waits by the doctor/trainer room.

Kofi Kingston walks out and gives an update on his ribs. Not the best news, as he’ll be out at least six weeks. But he’ll get to spend time with the family. Big E is sorry, wants Kofi to heal up, and promises that when Kofi comes back, Shinsuke and Cesaro will pay! Kofi appreciates that, and they’ll get the titles back when the time is right. But something makes Kofi think this is a sign. Xavier Woods has been out, Kofi is out now, so Big E is alone. this is his time! Big E appreciates that back, but Kofi cuts him off. Kofi and Woods talk all the time. The last six years, Big E has selflessly put the group ahead of himself! Even when Kofi was world champion, Big E always had love, no jealousy. Kofi appreciated that, and couldn’t have done any of that without him.

But now, it’s Big E’s time to show what he can do. Kofi and Woods want this for Big E. Big E needs to shine before he’s waited a decade like Kofi. More importantly, Big E has earned this and deserves this, and has the team’s blessing. Hug gently now. Much love between the New Day members. Is Big E going to get gold all his own in these next six weeks?

 

AJ Styles joins commentary!

The Phenomenal Intercontinental Champion wants a front row seat to the match up next, as it will go a long way to determining his next challenger!

 

WWE Intercontinental Championship #1 Contender’s match: Drew Gulak VS Chad Gable VS Lince Dorado VS Gran Metalik!

An incredible line-up that even has the Lucha House Party facing itself! Will Gulak earn another shot at AJ Styles? Or will a new contender step up to feed that hunger for gold?

The bell rings and Dorado dropkicks Shorty G out of the ring! LHP goes after Gulak together, but Gulak cradles Metalik. Dorado kicks it apart then clubs Gulak to ropes. LHP go after Gulak again, double whip and double hip toss! Dorado gets help from Metalik, wheelbarrow leg drop! Then LHP bumps into each other, and decide to test who is the superior luchador! Dorado trips Metalik, speeds things up and Metalik hurdles but Dorado leaps. Gulak drags Dorado out and scoop slams him hard on the floor! Metalik FLYING HURICANRANAS Gulak off the apron! The crowd fires up while Styles mocks Gulak. Gable German Suplexes, Metalik lands on his feet but things speed up.

Gable arm-drags Metalik then wrenches to a whip. Metalik handsprings, Gable dodges, but Metalik ducks to mule kick! Metalik runs the ropes in a corner to missile dropkick! Cover but Gulak breaks it! Dorado dropkicks Gulak to a corner and fires off chops and kicks! Dorado wrenches and whips, Gulak reveres, Dorado goes up and over and handsprings to then BOOT Gulak back! Dorado keeps moving, huricanrana! The crowd fires up for the Golden Lynx, he builds speed but ducks Gable to DIVE onto Gulak! Gulak hits the desk, Dorado stomps away! Metalik enziguris Gable, springboards into a dropkick of Gable’s! Gable aims as everyone groups together on the outside, to SUPER MOONSAULT! All four contenders are down as SmackDown goes to break!

SmackDown returns and Gable elbows away on Metalik. Gable brings Metalik up, feeds him to Gulak’s uppercut then hits a BIG back suplex! Cover but Gulak drags Gable off to cover him, ONE! Dorado covers Gulak, ONE! Gable splashes but misses, Dorado covers him, only for Gulak to break it! Gulak throws Dorado out hard then snapmares Gable, only for Gable to backslide! TWO and Gulak uses his legs to drag Gable into a cover, TWO! Gable sits on the cover, ropebreak, but Gable snap suplexes Gulak! Cover, TWO! Gable brings Gulak up to throw forearms, but Gulak whips only for Gable to reverse and send him out! Styles insists he’s a fighting champion but still doesn’t think this is how it works.

Gable and Metalik fight on the apron, Gable puts Metalik in to CHOP away! Gable throws forearms, Gulak pushes him out of the way to stomp Metalik. Gable shoves Gulak to stomp Metalik. Gulak shoves Gable, and the two decide to work together for a moment. Gulak scoops, Metalik escapes. Gable scoops, Metalik escapes. Gulak kicks Metalik and the two grapplers whip him. Metalik handsprings to back elbow them both down! The crowd fires up as all three men roll to sides. Dorado returns and lariats Gulak down, dropkicks Gable out! Dorado fires off forearms and CHOPS on Gulak then whips corner to corner. Gulak reverses but misses in the corner, Dorado KICKS hard, QUEBRADA! Cover, TWO!

Dorado aims at Gulak in the corner but is put up top. Dorado kicks Gulak away, BIG cfrossobody hits! Cover, TWO! Dorado keeps his cool as he whips Gulak. Gulak reverses, Dorado handsprings to GOLDEN REWIND! Cover, Metalik breaks it! Amigos must do what they must to get at the title! Gable shoves Metalik into Dorado and hits a BIG EXPLODER! Gable fires off uppercuts and then uses an EXPLODER on Dorado! Gable fires up, runs to HEEL KICK both Gulak and Dorado! EXPLODER for Gulak! Gable spins Metalik around for a SAIDO! Bridging cover, Gulak breaks it in time! Styles is actually impressed by Shorty G.

Gable drags Gulak up, Gulak fights the waistlock and spins around to scoop and dragon sleeper, GuLOCK! Gable fights the hold, pops out of the body scissors and uses the ropes to climb up, to get out and trip Gulak up! ANKLE LOCK! Gulak flails, reaches, and Gable shots, “This is MY chance!” Gable drags Gulak from ropes and GRAPEVINES! Dorado FROG SPLASHES outta nowhere!! Cover, TWO!! The crowd is thunderous for this match as Dorado SUPERKICKS Gable down! Bottom rope MOONSAULT! Second rope MOONSAULT! Dorado wants the hat trick, but Gulak shoves him off the top into the crossbar!

Gulak climbs up behind Dorado, Dorado fights the back suplex and Gable adds on. Gable electric chair lifts and DUMPS Gulak out! Gable goes after Dorado SUPER GERMAN!! Dorado flounders out of the ring, Metalik SPRINGBOARD ELBOW DROPS! Cover, METALIK wins!!

Winner: Gran Metalik, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the WWE Intercontinental Championship)

The King of the Ropes finds the opening he needed and is now a contender! Styles joins him and Dorado in the ring to congratulate him. Styles wants to shake Metalik’s hand but Metalik hesitates. Styles SLAPS Metalik down and says that is why you don’t trust anyone. Metalik SLAPS him back! Then springboard tornado DDT’s! Dorado keeps Metalik from doing any more, this fight is coming next week! Will Styles regret firing up his future opponent?

 

SmackDown reviews the romance of Otis Dozovic and Mandy Rose.

Heavy Machinery’s human wrecking ball won over the Golden Goddess’ heart slowly but surely, and have had quite a time together over both the holidays and now in the summer sun. They even had a horse a carriage ride together, as well as regular work out sessions. The love story continues, next week on SmackDown as Mr. Money in the Bank and his sweet peach return!

 

Backstage interview with Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura!

They’re the NEW SmackDown Tag Team Championships after the Extreme Rules PPV TABLES Tag Match! “That’s right, Kayla. Welcome NEW champions!” But Nakamura isn’t sure what was more rewarding. Putting Kofi Kingston through the first table, or putting him through that second table. But either way, Kofi went SPLAT. Cesaro’s only regret is not being able to put Big E through a table, too. Yes, that would’ve been a bigger splat. But there will be a chance to do that very soon. Though, with Kofi out for about six weeks… This isn’t Big E’s time at all. This is THEIR time! The Winner Time! Champion’s Salute! “We’ll make all teams on SmackDown go SPLAT.”

 

Bar Fight: Jeff Hardy VS Sheamus!

The Charismatic Enigma and Celtic Warrior have gone back and forth both in and out of the ring. Hardy won in the Intercontinental Championship tournament’s opening round, but Sheamus got his revenge both with a hit ‘n’ run drunk driving frame-up and with the rematch at Backlash. Hardy got Sheamus back via his bartender’s shame, but Sheamus booted Hardy down. This battle inside Irish Shannon’s will settle the score once and for all! Will Hardy exorcise his demons while shutting Sheamus up? Or will he lose to both a bully and the beer?

Sheamus arrives to see his bartender and the referee waiting. “What’s crackin’, lads?” Everything ready to go? Good, good. Sheamus wants a quick shot before things get started. Haven’t seen Hardy yet. But before Sheamus can take his shot, Hardy walks in. Hardy sits at the bar with Sheamus, and Sheamus is glad he could make it. How about a shot to take the edge of? No thanks. Hardy wants a glass, though. Is he ready to do this? Hardy tells the ref to wait a moment. After all, he’s only here to count to three. Hardy wants Sheamus to know something first. That Jeff can’t handle his alcohol like a real man? Something like that.

Jeff’s brother had to “delete” his WWE career. Tonight, Jeff recovers his. Jeff’s been doing this since he was 16 years old, and has made mistakes to last a lifetime. Sobriety has changed Hardy, so hopefully Sheamus is ready for anything. Sheamus wants Jeff to face it. He can’t change. He’s too weak, pathetic and no one cares anymore. Is Sheamus still The Bar? Oh making jokes now? Yeah, Sheamus still raises the bar because he still IS The Bar. Cool. Hardy has connected to everything now. The window, the light, the TV. He IS this bar! What is he talking about/ Sheamus is the bar, and Hardy is just a junkie. “Alright, boss. Take care of that, will ya?” Sheamus hands his hat over. And watch out for Jeff, he doesn’t like bartenders.

Jeff SPLASHES Sheamus with the drink he poured! And then starts hammering away on Sheamus at the bar! Sheamus shoves Hardy but Hardy comes back for more! Hardy bounces Sheamus off the bar, clubs away again, then uses him to knock over glasses. Sheamus knees low and then high. Sheamus scoops Hardy to slam him onto the bar! Sheamus clubs away, and does the classic slide down the bar! He clubs Hardy, rips off his shirt, and gives him beats of the Bodhrain! Sheamus hits all ten times and Hardy flops to the floor. Sheamus catches his breath and pulls down the suspenders. He wants some top shelf refreshment this time. But Hardy runs along the bar to LEAP onto Sheamus!

Sheamus shoves Hardy into the brick wall! Hardy throws Sheamus into barrels! And then throws the basketballs from the arcade games at him! They brawl to the back, Hardy bounces Sheamus off wall in the hall! He clubs Sheamus down at the couch and bounces basketballs off him. Sheamus kicks back and keeps Hardy from using the keg. Sheamus uses the keg on Hardy! Sheamus digs it into Hardy to sandwich him against the wall! Sheamus drags Hardy up to bounce off walls in return for just a moment ago! Sheamus uses the bathroom door to SMASH Hardy into the corner over and over! Then they go into the bathroom for Sheamus to bounce Hardy off the sink!

Sheamus clubs Hardy towards the stalls, and gives him a swirly in the urinal! This is Sheamus “cleansing” Hardy of his demons! Sheamus lets up as Hardy gasps and coughs. Sheamus says Hardy has had worse than that, and brings him to the mirror. This is who Hardy is! “You’re trash!” Hardy hits back and throws Sheamus into a stall! hardy gets away, still gagging and retching from the toilet water. Sheamus staggers up after Hardy, shouting all the way. “I’m only here to help, remember?” Hardy can’t run or hide from this. Sheamus looks for Hardy, but he pops out of the storage closet! Hardy RAMS Sheamus with a ladder! Hardy throws the ladder at Sheamus!

They return to the main bar and Sheamus is crawling while clutching his ribs. Hardy climbs up to run along the tables and leap! But Sheamus catches him, to RAM him into the brick wall! Sheamus clears some space as he brings Hardy back up. They’re in the band area and Sheamus grabs a guitar. Maybe this will help with Hardy’s music career! The guitar SMASHES off the way as Hardy dodges! Sheamus shakes out his hands, Hardy clubs him from behind! Hardy clubs over and over, then brings Sheamus back up to whip. Sheamus reverses and sends Hardy tumbling into the drum kit! Hardy is down and SmackDown goes to break!

SmackDown returns as Sheamus yells at Hardy, “How did that feel?” Sheamus says Hardy wanted this. Hardy gets up, Sheamus aims but Hardy blocks the Brogue with a drum! The two stagger around, Hardy throws Sheamus into tables! Hardy tackles Sheamus on the ground then staggers back up. Hardy drags Sheamus up to go at the bar but Sheamus turns it around to bump Hardy. Hardy ducks the punch to kick, TWIST OF FURY! Sheamus is down, Hardy sets up the ladder by the barrels. Hardy fetches Sheamus, drags him over, and stomps him down. Hardy climbs up but the BARTENDER attacks! Well, he is still upset about Hardy pouring beer on him and knocking him out. Hardy kicks Jeeves back, clubs him and reels him in, to POWERBOMB him through a table!

Jeeves is down but Sheamus SMASHES a chair on Hardy’s back! Sheamus grabs his hat and puts it on Hardy’s face. “Sweet dreams, fella.” Sheamus goes behind the bar to grab himself a Guinness. Cheers. Sheamus takes a couple of good swigs, finishes it off, then goes back to where he left Hardy on the floor. “Referee, get ready.” But when Sheamus takes the hat off, Hardy has face paint on!? And those wild eyes! Hardy springs up and fires off hands! Sheamus shoves him into the bar but Hardy SMASHES a bottle on Sheamus’ head! Hardy climbs the ladder, steadies himself with the barrels, and then SUPER SWANTON BOMBS onto Sheamus!! Cover, Hardy wins!!

Winner: Jeff Hardy, by pinfall

The Charismatic Enigma is not yet OBSOLETE! He has conquered bully and inner demons, but will this victory propel him back to the top?


My Thoughts:

A really good SmackDown to keep up momentum from Extreme Rules. The hype up promos at the start were really good, and I liked that they were focused on the main event match’s story. JBL being part of it is great, I like that he’s getting to do more panelist work between the WWE PPV kickoff shows and now this. The Bar Fight being a theatrical on-location match rather than just a themed Street Fight was actually a great surprise and of course worked way better. I liked that the bartender got involved given the quick history from the build, and the bit with Hardy “magically” having his face paint for a super mode of sorts. Between that and Hardy using “delete” in reference to brother Matt is a sign that the rest of Jeff’s run will be somewhere between Brother Nero and his own ideas.

Having the women’s title story for the opener was great. It was a brilliant Heel move to pit Nikki against Alexa, Bayley and Sasha were great on commentary and Nikki VS Alexa itself was a great match. Nikki winning makes sense, and I would hope Stephanie McMahon makes a similar stipulation for the rematch as she did for Sasha and Asuka this Monday. At the very least, it needs to be announced that there is a ringside ban so Sasha and Alexa can’t be there. Assuming Asuka wins to get the belt back, there can still be tension put back into the Bayley-Sasha dynamic even if she wins, steering things towards SummerSlam again.

Tonight’s Firefly Fun House was really good, going another step in the Three Faces of Foley development for Bray. In fact, this wasn’t the first time lantern head being Eater of Worlds Bray was done, so kudos to a very long game Bray’s been playing at. Strowman VS Fiend for the title is a given for SummerSlam, but the promos like this are making it work. Riddle VS Nese was obvious filler to put more into the story with Corbin. Oddly, I hope there’s someone who does take Riddle down if for a moment to make Corbin give up that “king’s ransom,” only to reveal he doesn’t actually have that much money to give them. But in the end, pretty sure Riddle VS Corbin happens for SummerSlam and for Riddle to win big to jump into some sort of title picture after.

The Miz TV segment was pretty good, but does bring into question if Booker T criticizing #NaomiDeservesBetter was work or shoot. If it was at least a worked shoot, that’s admittedly good adjustment from WWE. And while Naomi gets the better of Lacey tonight, a lot of the SmackDown Women’s Championship story will influence this one. If Bayley retains, I could see Naomi becoming her contender on the way to something with Sasha. If Bayley loses, Lacey and Nikki could have quite the program against each other, with Lacey leaning hard into her “Ya Nasty!” gimmick, criticizing Nikki’s wardrobe and behavior as the way to get heat going.

The developments in the SmackDown Tag and Intercontinental Championship stories are probably the most intriguing things from tonight. Whether work or shoot, Kofi’s injury keeping him out is definitely a great way to give Big E his chance as a solo star again. This certainly allows Cesaro and Nakamura to shake things up in the tag team division, but again, without The Usos or Heavy Machinery, not really sure who they face right now, unless the Undisputed Era makes the move and the turn to Face. Cesaro & Nakamura VS reDRagon (O’Reilly and Fish) would be some incredible stuff.

Then there was the surprise Fatal 4 that ended in a surprising way. I didn’t think it’d be Metalik, but he and Dorado and Kalisto (by the way, where has he been?!) have done such great stuff, they deserve some chances. This is a great opportunity for Metalik, who honestly hasn’t had much since being a finalist in the one and only WWE Cruiserweight Classic tournament YEARS ago. AJ Styles being AJ Styles, I’m pretty sure he wins, but he and Metalik can definitely have a phenomenal match.

My Score: 8.4/10


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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; wins and advance to WrestleMania.
  • Last Woman Standing: Becky Lynch VS Nia Jax; 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 holdrs 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.

 


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

The semifinals are here!

Published

on

We’re just one step away from the Cup!

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

OFFICIAL RESULTS

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

PLAY BY PLAY

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

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

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

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

No Contest

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

2024 New Japan Cup Semifinals: SANADA VS Hirooki Goto!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


My Thoughts:

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

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

My Score: 8.9/10


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