Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (8/14/20)
Who is facing Bayley at SummerSlam?
All three brands converge on SmackDown!
Bayley’s actions are coming back to haunt her, as now superstars from Raw, NXT AND SmackDown have a chance to become #1 contender to her title!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Big E VS John Morrison; No Contest, rescheduled to later tonight.
- SmackDown Women’s Championship Contender’s Triple Brand Battle Royal: Asuka wins and will challenge Bayley for the title at SummerSlam
- Sheamus VS Chad Gable; Sheamus wins.
- Gran Metalik w/ Lince Dorado VS Shinsuke Nakamura w/ Cesaro; Metalik wins.
- Big E VS John Morrison; Big E wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Retribution has come for WWE!
Technical difficulties and strange happenings were just the beginning. Raw and SmackDown have both been overrun by a handful of anarchists who shout, “This is our house now!” They’ve done damage and security is on the look out, but is this just the tip of the iceberg?
Big E VS John Morrison!
Awwww~ people at home! Big E may be on his own but he is not new to this singles game! He is a former NXT Champion! A former Intercontinental Champion! Y’all must of forgotten, but he’ll remind us all! Will Big E get another big win as he takes on the Guru of Greatness?
The bell rings but the lights flicker. A member of the Retribution is on the apron and now in the ring! And then the rest appear! And even more! This is more than just the handful from before, but Big E and Morrison go right at them! This is a 6v2 assault, though, with more causing a ruckus on the outside! The crowd boos as Big E takes a SPEAR and Morrison is mugged! The Retribution leaves, having ruined the show opener. Miz arrives, conspicuous by his absence from earlier, and he checks on Morrison. How will SmackDown handle this after the break?
SmackDown returns to see superstars talking backstage.
Big E clutches his knee while Lucha House Party, Drew Gulak, Chad Gable, Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro join him, The Miz and John Morrison in trying to figure out what was going on. Miz says he was on the phone with Maryse about something, and apologizes for not being out there to help. Morrison gets it. But Miz says Big E is the one who riled Retribution up with a tweet. Baron Corbin comes by and says SmackDown is under attack! SmackDown needs direction and leadership, and the Wolf King is the man for the job. He can lead them to safety, since some of them aren’t built for this. Big E tells Corbin to shut his mouth. This is their house, and the Foot Clan from TMNT ain’t gonna run up and put their feet on SmackDown’s couch!
Big E may be beaten and bruised, disrespected, but he is not defeated! Big E swears to continue the match with Morrison and win! Now is not the time to hide but to stand and fight! The others rally behind him but Sheamus walks in mocking Big E. Sheamus has goosebumps~! But he’s never heard such an inspirational cry for help. No Kofi, no Woods, no trombones or pancakes. Just Big E all alone and vulnerable. That’s why Retribution attacked in the first place! They can smell fear. Sheamus has been knocking lumps out of Gable, so Retribution wouldn’t dare show themselves during his match. Sheamus isn’t afraid of them, but if they have any sense, they’d be afraid of him. If Sheamus had any sense, he’d see he’s not alone. Big E leaves, and LHP, Gulak and even Gable go with him. Who will be the one Retribution fears by the end of the night?
The Golden Role Models are in the ring!
Bayley and Sasha Banks have all their belts and say, “Ding dong, is this thing on?” That group that calls themselves Retribution apparently want to hear what these two have to say, so the crowd should follow suit! The show is getting going with the Triple Brand Battle Royal! Everyone knows better than to interrupt these two. Sasha Banks will have to face Asuka at SummerSlam, and now we know they’ll have to defend the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships at Payback! It’s fine, but that’s then. Tonight isn’t about those matches, but about Bayley! Stephanie McMahon tried raining on their parade, which is getting gold. But not even the McMahons can hold these two down!
So when it comes to the “lucky idiot” that will face Bayley at SummerSlam, Bayley is very excited. But after taking every job in the WWE and done it better than the others, especially commentary a la Corey Graves and Michael Cole! Now they add one more to the list: RING ANNOUNCING~! Get out, Greg Hamilton! Out! Move! Bye! Bayley starts by saying the following contest is a Triple Brand Battle Royal, where the only way to eliminate an opponent is to throw them over the top rope and both feet hit the floor! Both! Uno, dos! The winner goes on to SummerSlam to compete for the SmackDown Women’s Championship against yours truly, BAYLEY! First from Raw, the IIconics! A cute duo of best friends that are still second to Bayley and Sasha.
Next, a good but embarrassing one. The Role Models went back to NXT and shamed these girls. It’s Tegan Nox and Shotzi Blackheart! Green is definitely not Shotzi’s color. But the Role Models’ cover is GOLD! And now from SmackDown, Lacey Evans, another woman Bayley beat. How’s little Summer? From Raw… No, no, this has to be wrong. ASUKA?! She’s already going to face Sasha, and now she brawls with both Role Models! Sasha and Bayley bail out, and here comes Naomi, Nikki Cross, Bianca Belair, Tamina, Dana Brooke, Ruby Riott, Liv Morgan and Shayna Baszler! Will the Empress of Tomorrow get a double header for SummerSlam? Or will someone else step up to challenge Bayley?
SmackDown Women’s Championship Contender’s Triple Brand Battle Royal!
SmackDown returns and this match begins! Lacey goes after Naomi, the IIconics are after Ruby, Shotzi brawls with Tamina. Liv saves Ruby from the IIconics while Asuka stomps Dana. Dana turns things around while the Riott Squad both end up on the apron. Peyton rocks Liv but Ruby saves LIv from Billie’s BOOT! Billie ELIMINATES Ruby! The Role Models mock the first woman gone while Liv drags both IIconics up! Tegan helps to ELIMINATE Billie! And Shotzi ELIMINATES Peyton! But the IIconics trip up and ELIMINATE Liv! The Role Models are shocked as the Squad and IIconics brawl!
Back in the ring, Bianca scoops Shotzi while Dana throws Nikki out. Nikki went through the second rope and Dana boots her down so Nikki is still in this. Nikki catches Dana’s baseball slide into the apron skirt! Nikki fires off on Dana over and over, then shouts at the Role Models. Nikki gets back in but Asuka kicks her first. Tegan and Shotzi try to eliminate Bianca but she holds on for dear life. Naomi and Lacey still fight while Tamina brawls with Shayna. Bianca fights Shotzi and Tegan off while Naomi pulls Lacey’s hair as payback for the last few weeks. Nikki fires up and goes after Tamina but Tamina stays up. Nikki fires off forearms but Tamina shoves her away.
Nikki throat chops, runs and crossbodies, but Tamina catches her! Tamina puts Nikki on the apron but Nikki fights Tamina back. Nikki gets in but the SUPERKICK ELIMINATES Nikki! Tamina then runs over Tegan and Shotzi! But now Bianca steps up to Tamina and the crowd fires up! Bianca and Tamina start pushing, and Bianca fires off forearms! Tamina body shots back then fireman’s carries, but Bianca slips out to SPEAR! Bianca brings Tamina up for the chicken wing throw! Bianca ELIMINATES Tamina!! The Role Models are in shock! Naomi dodges Lacey to back elbow her! Jawbreaker! Naomi whips but Lacey reverses, but Naomi gets up only to be sent out. Naomi shoulders back in, ROUNDHOUSES Shayna away, but the WOMAN’S RIGHT ELIMINATES Naomi!
Lacey talks trash to Naomi and throws her a handkerchief, but Shotzi dumps Lacey to the apron and shoulders her down! Shotzi ELIMINATES Lacey! But Shayna grabs Shotzi in a Kirafuda Klutch! Shayna drags Shotzi up, has her fade out, but Lacey trips and ELIMINATES Shotzi! Bianca rams into Tegan over and over, then scoops, only for Tegan to slip out. Tegan body shots but Bianca blocks the whip. Bianca whips and catches the uppercut for the chicken wings. Tegan victory rolls free and sends Bianca into ropes! Tegan baits Bianca in and dumps her out, Tegan ELIMINATES Bianca! We already have our final three, in Tegan, Shayna and Asuka!
Tegan rallies on the two former NXT Women’s Champions, uppercut for Asuka in the corner! Uppercut for Shayna! CANNONBALL into Asuka! CANNONBALL into Shayna! Tegan has Asuka up for a GOURD BUSTER! Tegan and Shayna lock up, Shayna gut wrenches Tegan to the ropes! Tegan wobbles, Dana Brooke trips and ELIMINATES Tegan?! Wait a minute, Dana wasn’t eliminated at all! She is now part of the REAL final three! Dana says she was playing smart and says she can win. Dana gets in, dodges Shayna to dropkick her down! Dana handspring back elbows into the KIRAFUDA! Shayna throws Dana up and over, but Dana hotshots her! Asuka hip attacks and ELIMINATES Dana!
The crowd is thunderous as Asuka and Shayna go 1v1! They circle, evade the sliding lunges, and tie up. Shayna throws knees, whips Asuka to a corner, but Asuka goes up only to get an enziguri! Asuka tumbles but stays on the apron! Asuka BACK HANDS Shayna, but Bayley tries to trip Bayley! Asuka kicks her away, Sasha come sin, but Asuka SLIDING KICKS both Role Models! Shayna KNEES Asuka off the apron, but Asuka lands on the Role Models!! Asuka’s feet aren’t touching the floor, she’s still in this! Asuka gets back on the apron Shayna fires forearms but Asuka gives them back! Shayna has Asuka in the Kirafuda, but Asuka drags her up and over!! Shayna hits the floor, Asuka wins!!
Winner: Asuka (NEW #1 Contender to the SmackDown Women’s Championship)
Incredible! The Empress is going to challenge each champion in turn! Will neither Bayley or Sasha be ready for #DoubleChampionAsuka?
SmackDown returns to the Golden Role Models backstage.
This is an outrage! This is not fair! They didn’t know Asuka was going to be on the final list! Well, Asuka won against Bayley on Raw but they can beat her at SummerSlam. Yeah, the title wasn’t on the line, so Bayley didn’t have something important to fight for. Wait, what? Before Bayley can explain, Asuka attacks!! Asuka kicks away on both of them! Security hurries to break this up but Asuka makes it clear that she’s coming for both singles belts! Is either best friend going to survive SummerSlam?
Mandy Rose speaks.
“You know what, Sonya?” Part of what you said was true. But does Sonya think she’s the only person to say Mandy’s just a pretty face/ She’s heard it her whole life! She’s a Barbie, she’s so fake, just a model with everything handed to her. That hurts hearing all that. What Sonya said about her being a bikini world champion, that’s true. But does having three jobs to put herself through college while winning that title sound like everything was handed to her? And what about getting to the WWE? Sonya of all people saw how hard Mandy worked to get here.
But turns out, Mandy should thank Sonya for reminding her she’s more than a pretty face. Sonya thought trying to make her look ugly would destroy Mandy? How about this? SummerSlam, Hair VS Hair! If Sonya wants to sit on her high horse about not caring about her looks, then time to put your money where your mouth is. Because one way or another, Mandy promises Sonya it will get ugly.
Sheamus heads to gorilla.
The Celtic Warrior assures security backstage that they’re not needed. The Retribution is too afraid of him to interfere. But will the anarchists prove him wrong?
Nikki Cross finds Alexa Bliss backstage.
She gives her bestie a big hug, and apologizes for pushing her down and leaving her to The Fiend. It’s fine, really. But with what happened- It’s okay, really. Alexa, c’mon. The Fiend and Braun are here, something could happen. No, Alexa needs to be here to get answers for herself. Will the Monster no longer among men be willing to talk to someone he says he no longer cares about?
Sheamus VS Chad Gable!
The Fella and Shorty G have revived their rivalry over issues regarding Matt Riddle and Baron Corbin. Sheamus gave Gable Brogue after Brogue, will he just top it off with more of the same? Or does Gable’s new aggression mean things will be different this time?
The bell rings and Gable fires off on Sheamus with forearms! Gable gets a waistlock but Sheamus elbows him hard in the corner. The ref counts, Sheamus lets up at 4 but he stomps Gable and throws him out. Gable stays on the apron so Sheamus drags him up for the Bodhrain! Sheamus gives Gable all 10 beats before the ref counts 4, and then Gable flops to the floor. Sheamus goes out, drags Gable back up and in, then brings Gable up for European Uppercuts! Sheamus whips, Gable ducks and dodges to dropkick the legs out! Gable has the leg for a snap toehold! And another! Gable body scissors into a rear mount and clubbing crossface forearms! Gable looms over Sheamus now then runs, into a double ax handle!
Sheamus seethes while the crowd rallies up. Sheamus drags Gable up for the IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! And then a knee drop! And another! Sheamus gives those crossface forearms back, but Gable CHOPS and CHOPS! Sheamus knees low, scoops but Gable fights free to rolling kick! Gable goes out, climbs up, and leaps to missile dropkick Sheamus down! Cover, TWO! Gable grows frustrated and Sheamus fireman’s carries. Gable sunset flips, has the leg for the ANKLE LOCK! Sheamus reaches, rolls and pushes free, but Gable jackknife covers! TWO, and Sheamus fireman’s carry to WHITE NOISE! The Air Raid drives Gable down but Sheamus wants him to get back up. Gable stands, for the BROGUE!! Cover, Sheamus wins!
Winner: Sheamus, by pinfall
The Celtic Warrior conquers Shorty G! And he was right, Retribution didn’t interfere. Is that from fear? Or is something else going on here?
AJ Styles talks with a member of staff backstage.
The Phenomenal One seems very adamant about something and the very nervous tech is showing him the work. Apparently the “Phenomenal Intercontinental Statistics System” is debuting tonight! Will Styles be happy with his PISS?
AJ Styles heads to the ring!
He and the technical advisor from just before are here and Styles gets a mic for this presentation. There is a lot going on in the WWE but who really cares about those hooligans? There are more pressing matters! Like who will face the Phenomenal AJ Styles for the Intercontinental Championship! Not that it really matters. But it still does because Daniel Bryan insists the Intercontinental Champion should be a fighting champion. Has Styles not been that? Coach Gulak lost to Styles. Matt Riddle lost to Styles. Gran Metalik lost to Styles! Styles just wants to enjoy being a champion, sitting at home while gaming on his Twitch channel, and enjoy all this.
But so many people, just like his followers, are a bunch of nerds throwing out stats! Like Styles needs to hear all that! Statistically, Styles should face this guy who hasn’t won a lot but beat tough opponents! But then it dawned on Styles. When Styles watches baseball, there’s batting averages. Football, it’s 40 yard times. Stats. So then Styles realized, as a handsome stud of a nerd himself, cares about stats. The crowd latches on by chanting, “Nerd! Nerd!” Styles tells them to shut up. But his point is, if we’re going by stats, Styles will have a team. The Phenomenal Intercontinental Statistics System! The PISS! Well, okay, the name is a work in progress. Now the crowd chants, “Piss! Piss!”
Styles says the point is, we’re not handing out title matches. Everyone will earn matches on merit and merit alone. So let’s see who is the top superstar according to PISS. It is… AJ Styles! Of course! He is the champion! But number two as according to PISS, as well as three, four and five. It’s… NOBODY! Joseph Park’s numbers have calculated that no one has the right to challenge Styles! No one!! “But here’s the truth: If you work hard, real hard, really really really hard, then one day you can make it on this board” and challenge- Here comes Jeff Hardy! The Charismatic Enigma heads to the ring and the crowd cheers.
Hardy tells Styles that while he has a ton of respect for what Styles has done, which is all truly phenomenal, that tournament he won was tainted. Sheamus set Hardy up and robbed Hardy of his opportunity. Hardy doesn’t dwell on the past, but it could’ve been these two in the finals. But it wasn’t, we move on. The Intercontinental Championship is the first title Hardy won on his own. Hardy stood on his own two feet then, as he does now after conquering his demons. So Hardy knows his self worth and accomplishments. And as a member of the WWE Universe, Styles VS Hardy just sounds “mega cool!” The crowd chants, “mega cool!” So man to man, Hardy challenges Styles to give him a match for that newly designed title.
Styles says that stats aside, they’ve known each other a long time, Hardy has always been good to Styles and Styles admires what Hardy has done. Styles gets it. There are a lot of people who want to see this. Hardy was part of “the best tag team in WWE history, there’s no doubt about that.” Hardy does deserve to be on the board. So if Hardy is asking if Styles wants to face Hardy in this ring for the Intercontinental Championship, Styles says HELL NO! What does Hardy think this is? He hasn’t earned his spot on the board! And yes, Styles knows what Hardy’s been through. “But this ain’t no pity party.” Hardy fires off on Styles! And Park! Styles staggers into a TWIST OF FATE! Hardy takes the pen and writes his name in BIG letters on the board! Will Hardy whoop the PISS out of Styles to prove he’s a worthy contender?
Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura talk backstage.
They’re the greatest SmackDown Tag Team Champions yet, and Lucha House Party can’t do a thing about it. Nakamura is going to turn Gran Metalik into… How do you say “little” in Japanese? Chibi. Yes, he’ll be Chibi Metalik after this. But wait! LHP is stealing the belts! Nakamura and Cesaro give chase, will they make Lince Dorado and GRAN Metalik pay for this prank?
Styles vents backstage.
“Jeff Hardy punched me in the face!” Kayla Braxton comes by to ask if Styles is reconsidering the challenge. Hardy assaulted Styles! Hardy doesn’t respect Styles, the Intercontinental Championship or analytics! Hardy wants Styles, he’ll get Styles. And Styles will show Hardy what happens when you mess with him. “You get erased!” Styles tries to rub the ink off the board, but it isn’t coming off. This is permanent marker?! Styles leads Park and the PISS board away in a huff. Will Styles have no choice but to acknowledge Hardy’s challenge?
Gran Metalik w/ Lince Dorado VS Shinsuke Nakamura w/ Cesaro!
Lucha House Party just wanted to have fun but the King of Strong Style and Swiss Cyborg had to be bullies about the party. Now LHP is getting back at them by taking those titles literally. Will Nakamura get even with them in the ring?
The bell rings and Nakamura calls for a test of strength, only to kick Metalik in the leg! Nakamura fires off forearms and then puts Metalik in the corner for more. The ref counts but Nakamura backs off, to give Metalik Bad Vibrations! Nakamura taunts Lince before he snampares Metalik and drops a knee! Cover, TWO! Nakamura looms over Metalik, drags him up by the mask, and then whips him to ropes. Metalik ducks and mule kicks back to snapmare and chinlock in return. Nakamura fights up, fights back and whips Metalik away. Metalik handsprings, Nakamura dodges but Metalik ducks to huricanrana!
Nakamura bails out and Metalik builds speed but he dives into a kick! Nakamura covers, TWO! Nakamura kicks Metalik while he’s down then drags him back up. Nakamura whips Metalik corner to corner, Metalik boots but is blocked. Nakamura puts Metalik on the apron, Metalik shoulders back then springboards in! Crossbody and cover, TWO! Metalik boots Nakamura away then SLING DOGS! The crowd fires up as Metalik brings Nakamura up and whips. Nakamura reverses, Metalik springboards for the back elbow! Cover, TWO! Metalik keeps on Nakamura with a fireman’s carry, but Nakamura slips out to sleeper hold! Then INVERTED EXPLODER, but Metalik lands o his feet!
Metalik mule kicks, goes to ropes, but Cesaro distracts on the apron! Metalik springboards into the DYNAMIC DROPKICK! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura drags Metalik back up, gives him another INVERTED EXPLODER! Shinsuke aims, Metalik rises, “YAO~!” But wait, is that KALISTO!? The Lucha Dragon returns to join his amigos! Cesaro rushes him but Kalisto dodges and Lince SUPERKICKS Cesaro first! Lince gives Kalisto the alley-oop, Cesaro catches him, but Lince spins Kalisto through to tornado DDT Cesaro on the ramp! Nakamura is distracted by this, Metalik enziguris! Metlaik walks the ropes, SPRINGBOARD ELBOW DROP! Cover, Metalik wins!
Winner: Gran Metalik, by pinfall
The Lucha House Party is at 100% power! Will they be stronger than ever and finally have tag gold?
Backstage interview with Matt Riddle.
The Bro has been the target of Baron Corbin just for being the new guy, yet he still has a positive mood. How is he so positive with this “King’s Ransom” on his head? Well, bro, no one likes a bounty on their head. It’s pretty hard. Riddle is laid back so he doesn’t like having his head on a swivel. But it’s also cool, because he’s here to bro down and throw down. Riddle wants to compete. Corbin acts like a king, but he’s more like a royal pain. Riddle has called Corbin out, dared him to have a match, and even got involved in Corbin’s match with Sheamus last week. Honestly, what is Riddle supposed to do to get that match?
Gable comes by and explains himself. He got too caught up in that King’s Ransom stuff. But Gable does have a family, and money like that goes a long way. Riddle understands that, too, right? But that doesn’t justify Gable trying to injure someone else. It’s not him. It’s sickening and embarrassing. Gable is here, man to man and face to face, to apologize. Gable offers a bro fist bump, and Riddle takes it. It’s all good, bro. But hey, if Gable ever wants to go against the Bro, Riddle is always down. Riddle does have a question, though. But Corbin attacks before he can ask! “So much for keeping your head on a swivel, huh?” This is Corbin’s kingdom. And thanks Gable. Corbin always knew he’d amount to something.
Gable apologized and got taken advantage, while Corbin won’t apologize for anything. Will Riddle make Corbin sorry he ever started this?
Alexa Bliss sits down for a special interview.
How does she feel after everything the last few weeks? She’s been better, that’s for sure. Can she tell us about her history with Braun Strowman? When you first meet Braun, he can be intimidating. But she got to know the man behind the monster. Team Little Big were a hit during the original Mixed Match Challenge, getting along both professionally and personally. Braun is a good man, very funny and witty, and even protective, compassionate and honest. They can have fun with each other, and that’s how they became best friends.
Then was there a point where she thought it could be more than a friendship? As in, romantically? Well… Maybe? Braun cared about her, she cared about him. Is that why The Fiend targeted her? Because of those feelings? That is something Alexa doesn’t know. You’d have to ask The Fiend. Being that close to The Fiend, what was it like? “It’s scary. Terrifying.” And yet, compelling. Once you’ve interacted with The Fiend, you can almost feel him. She can say for the first time in her life, she understands what they mean by “Moths to a flame.”
Braun made some very strong comments about her. He told The Fiend that playing on emotions won’t work, and that Alexa doesn’t matter to him anymore. Braun only cares about destroying The Fiend, because now he is solely The Monster. How does she feel hearing that? Alexa can’t bring herself to say, so SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown makes it official!
After Hardy confronted AJ Styles and things turned into a fight, the Charismatic Enigma WILL challenge the Phenomenal One for the Intercontinental Championship! Will Styles have to ditch PISS when he loses the title?
Sonya Deville responds.
“I gotta say, Mandy. I’m a little surprised by your challenge.” Who knew all it would take was a haircut to get some aggression out of her? And Sonya thought about it. Sonya thinks Mandy will look great bald. Sorry, no jokes, she’ll be serious. Sonya wants to remind Mandy of something else. Mandy may think she got over her insecurities, and she may be so sick about hearing the same things over and over, but did she ever think that those people said all that because it’s true? Sonya will make sure Mandy realizes that as she destroyed Mandy once and for all. Challenge accepted! “See you soon, Baldy.” SummerSlam will see one woman win, and the other be cut up and humiliated!
Big E VS John Morrison!
The Miz is on commentary this time as we try this again. We skip the entrances and the good vibes as Big E and Morrison look to have it out. Will Retribution reappear to ruin this match again?
The bell rings, the two circle and tie up. Big E pushes Morrison to a corner but Morrison turns it around. Morrison kicks at Big E’s bad leg but Big E stays up. They tie up again, Big E headlocks and grinds Morrison to the rhythm of “New! Day Rocks!” Morrison powers out, Big E runs him over, and Big E smiles as Morrison gets to a corner. Morrison keeps his cool as he approaches Big E. Big E avoids one low kick but not the tricky second one, or the hard third kick! Morrison rolls Big E to a cover, TWO! Big E sits up, holding the bad knee again. Morrison starts up, “Hey! Hey hey! Ho ho~!” Things speed up now as Big E manages to hurdle Morrison then back elbow him away!
Morrison shows off his parkour meets capoeria style and it takes Big E off balance. Morrison waistlocks, but Big E powers him off! Big E runs into the corner but Morrison slips out and roundhouses back! Morrison springboards but Big E pushes him over! Morrison tumbles down but gets back up, and Miz is relieved. Morrison forearms back, things speed up again and Big E lariats Morrison down! Big E drags Morrison out to the apron, clubs him in the chest, then climbs up for the SPLASH! Morrison might as well be a pancake and Miz is worried. Big E refreshes the count, stalks Morrison around the way, but Morrison hurries away.
Miz gets out of his seat to coach Morrison but Big E pushes him aside. Miz tugs on the headset and the cable tangles on Big E’s leg. Big E glares at Miz but Morrison chop blocks the bad leg! Miz plays innocent while the crowd boos. Morrison drags Big E up and into the ring and kicks away in the corner. Morrison throws haymakers, wraps the bad leg around the ropes then drops a knee on the knee! Big E writhes and the ref reprimands but Morrison covers, TWO! Morrison keeps on Big E with a chinlock, but wait is that Otis? Otis confronts Miz on behalf of Big E but Miz has to say back that Otis doesn’t deserve to be Mr. Money in the Bank! The briefcase literally fell into Otis’ hands!
Big E fights up out of the chinlock and throws body shots on Morrison. The lights start to flicker!! Is this Retribution!? Everyone is on guard and looking around as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and the SmackDown locker room has hurried to ringside to be even more security. Morrison has Big E’s bad leg in a toehold and he cranks as hard as he can on it. Big E endures and fights back as the crowd rallies, but Morrison shifts to facelock. The lights flicker again but still no Retribution. Big E powers up and out of the hold, but Retribution suddenly pours out from backstage! They’re chasing Kayla! And wrecking interview sets! And throwing referees around! And beating up Performance Center trainees! And even locking someone in the bathroom!? Retribution throws chairs around, hits things with crowbars and bats, and spray the WWE logo with a slash through it like before! But no one at ringside realizes this!
Big E has Morrison but Morrison PELES back! Big E wobbles, Morrison springboards to FLYING CHUCK! Cover, TWO! A referee manages to get word about Retribution to the others! They hurry backstage to intervene! Big E and Morrison are alone and Big E kicks Morrison away. Morrison runs at Big E, Big E scoops but Morrison slips out to push Big E into buckles. Morrison runs in, Big E scoops him for the Urenag-E, but Morrison uses his feet to kick the ropes and get free! Morrison dropkicks the legs out! Meanwhile, the SmackDown superstars are moments too late to stop Retribution as they’ve already fled the backstage area! Where did they go now? They free the guy in the bathroom, at least.
Back in the ring, Morrison ROCKS Big E up top. Morrison climbs, Big E resists and throws body shots. Big E shoves Morrison down hard, hops down and gives Morrison that Urenage-E! Cover, TWO!! Michael Cole asks what Miz is going to do about Retribution, but he counters with, “What was I supposed to do?” Big E scoops, Morrison slips out again and kicks away on the bad leg! Morrison sweeps the legs then runs, but Big E ducks the Shining Wizard! Big E rolls Morrison up, TWO, to the STRETCH MUFFLER! Morrison taps, Big E wins!!
Winner: Big E, by submission
Big E looks unstoppable and Miz is upset. But then SHEAMUS attacks Big E! The BROGUE takes him out, but wait. BRAUN is here!! Braun has shaved his head but still has his beard as he roars and storms out to the ring. Will Big E even realize who hit him? Will The Fiend show himself to The Monster?
SmackDown returns to Braun in the ring.
He stares right into the camera as he has a mic. “They say ‘You’ll never see it coming’ at SummerSlam. Well, Fiend, you know exactly what you’re gonna get when it comes to me! I told you that when I came outta that swamp, that I was gonna be the most evil son of a bi*ch that you or anyone on this earth had ever laid eyes on!” He tells The Fiend to face his fears so that Braun can rip him limb from limb, EVISCERATE him, and then as The Fiend is about to take his last breath, he will look up at Braun as he consumes his entrails!! But it isn’t The Fiend that appears, but Alexa! Alexa goes right to the ring and has a mic of her own as she looks at Braun.
“Braun. At the risk of making you angrier, I think I owe it to us and our friendship to have a conversation.” A conversation about what? About him! This is not the Braun she knows! Especially after how he said he doesn’t “give a damn” about her! She 100% does NOT believe that! They’ve been friends for years! Like hell they were! She used him as a pawn! She wanted to make him something he’s not! But he told the truth when he said he doesn’t care about her! She thought of him as some kind of clown she could lead around by his beard and make him sing songs in the car! Alexa doesn’t understand this. What is going on here? Braun will spell it out for her. “Everyone that comes in contact with The Fiend changes, INCLUDING YOU!” Now get out of the ring, because he wants The Fiend!
Fine. Alexa will go, but says he needs to be careful what he wishes for. If she can’t talk sense into Braun, she’ll slap some sense into him! And damn it, LOOK AT HER when she talks to you! Braun turns very slowly to look down at her. And she SLAPS him! He smiles as she keeps slapping him. Alexa shouts at him, “This isn’t you! Wake up!” But then Braun scoops and lifts Alexa way overhead! But the lights start turning off, and not because of Retribution. Braun shouts, “Where are you, Fiend?!” He keeps Alexa up, but then TOSSES her as the lights go out!! The lights come back on, and they’re red as The Fiend stands in the ring.
Alexa hit the mat and she sits up from the pain, but where is Braun? Braun laughs as he used The Fiend’s trick against him. Braun is now the one laughing into the night. Fiend laughs back. Has SmackDown gone completely mad?
My Thoughts:
This was a WILD episode of SmackDown, though I’m not sure if it was all good. When it comes to the obvious thread of the night with The Retribution showing up, they seem a lot bolder on SmackDown than on Raw. And there were way more this week than before, so I can’t be sure if it’s still just a faction or some kind of invasion. The only show Retribution hasn’t hit is NXT, so maybe this is some weird way of NXT invading without taking the blame for it. Another theory is how they only did things during Big E’s matches against Morrison. They ruined the first and hurt Big E’s knee, then ran roughshod backstage during the second. Is there a mastermind behind Retribution that has a thing against Big E? Against Miz and Morrison? Is WWE smart enough to bring the SmackDown Hacker back into things? Yeah, probably not at all. But having a mastermind should be the big twist to this.
I will say that Retribution has spurred on great developments in the SmackDown midcard. Corbin trying to become the leader while Big E stands up to him is great. Sheamus beating Gable but then going after Big E anyway is great. Corbin using Gable to get after Riddle is great. All of these guys can compete in whatever match or series of matches WWE wants for them and I would love to see it. Maybe make it a huge contender’s match to the Intercontinental Championship since Styles is about everyone earning things. I definitely laughed more than I should have at Styles creating “PISS,” but I properly marked out for seeing Joseph “Abyss” Park make an on-air debut for SmackDown. I hope something develops there on the side. Styles VS Hardy next week will be amazing, and that means SummerSlam is open for an even greater match.
Mandy and Sonya may not have had the Extreme Rules PPV match I had hoped for but their promos tonight and the set-up of a HAIR VS HAIR match at SummerSlam, this is going to get really good. Mandy already had her hair cut during the attack segment a couple weeks ago, maybe Mandy wins and “ruins” Sonya’s hair. I liked a lot of what happened with the SmackDown Tag Team Championship story. LHP gets the win thanks to a great surprise return from Kalisto. Kalisto looks JACKED, and I hope he gets some kind of singles title attempt while Lince and Metalik get the tag title shot. Of course, I don’t see Cesaro and Nakamura losing so soon. Those guys definitely deserve a lengthy reign given the great work they’ve done in and out of the ring.
The Women’s Battle Royal was a lot of fun, but what a twist with Asuka getting in on it. Now, this kinda fits under something I was feeling. If Kairi Sane wasn’t leaving WWE, she could’ve easily been in this Triple Brand Battle Royal, won it the same way Asuka won it, and then the Kabuki Warriors could be taking the belts from the Golden Role Models at SummerSlam. Heck, the fact we just learned that Payback will have the Women’s Tag Team titles on the line, Kabuki Warriors could’ve challenged for those, too. But now Asuka could end up a double champion in one night, and that’d be awesome. Everyone loves double champions, everyone loves Asuka, everyone will love Double Champion Asuka.
The story of Braun, Bray and Bliss has taken some interesting twists of its own. Alexa played her part great tonight, from being aloof from Nikki to not knowing how to handle the questions in that interview. Then her confronting Braun was strong stuff, too. I’m pretty sure they upped the audio on that first slap but still. And I do like that they used the lights to censor Alexa being tossed, much as what happened on Raw with Randy Orton punting Ric Flair, but a part of me was hoping The Fiend would “catch” her. I suppose The Fiend can’t start caring for someone, he needs to be the soulless part of Bray. In which case, I have to applaud WWE for giving us a Heel VS Heel title match at SummerSlam. Are we going to get Otis cashing in that MITB contract as the one Face in the mix? Is that another reason for Payback the week after? So many questions!
My Score: 8.5/10
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Will the Mad Dragon Whoop Dat Trick right out of NXT?
Spring Breakin’ returns, and it is a make or break moment for Trick Williams! Either he dethrones Ilja Dragunov, or he LEAVES NXT!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- NXT Women’s Championship Triple Threat: Roxanne Perez VS Lyra Valkyria VS Tatum Paxley; Roxie wins and retains the title.
- Six Man Tag: The D’Angelo Family VS No Quarter Catch Crew; The D’Angelo Family wins.
- Fallon Henley VS Jaida Parker w/ OTM; Jaida wins.
- Beach Brawl: Sol Ruca VS Blair Davenport; Sol wins.
- Baron Corbin VS Lexis King; King wins.
- NXT Championship, Trick’s Last Chance: Ilja Dragunov VS Trick Williams; wins and
PLAY BY PLAY
The General Managers have a meeting in the WWE Draft War Room.
Ava Raine ins with Adam Pearce in person and Nick Aldis via video chat. They wrap up and Ava thanks them for being here. This is a big night for NXT as Spring Breakin’ is now two weeks, and it is also the NXTÂ before the Draft. Aldis says congrats on the fine job she’s doing here. NXT has a deep pool of talent. To keep it 100, he’s got his eyes on quite a few NXT talents. Pearce says Aldis isn’t lying, the NXT Women’s Division is incredible, and the world would love to see them on Mondays. Aldis will be watching Dragunov VS Trick very closely. Ava agrees, and they will be changing the lives of numerous superstars, so everyone is going to be on their A Game.
But after this week, it won’t be about who goes to Raw or SmackDown but about who steps up to take their place. So one way or another, NXT will never be the same after tonight. All the GMs are in agreement there, but just what will the landscape look like after tonight’s main event?
NXT Women’s Championship Triple Threat: Roxanne Perez VS Lyra Valkyria VS Tatum Paxley!
Speaking of that landscape, The Prodigy is back on top of the Women’s Division, for now. She thought she could just slip away while The Morrigan and the twisted Tatum fought it out, but Ava wasn’t going to let her have it so easy. The odds have drastic gone down for Roxie, will she be able to survive? Or will there be a new champion crowned to start off the night?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and Spring Breakin’ is already heating up!
The bell rings and Roxie is wary of both challengers. Tatum creeps up but Lyra TACKLES Tatum! Lyra fires hands, Tatum BOOTS her away, but then Lyra runs up to kick low! Lyra stomps Tatum in the corner and Roxie seems to be getting what she wanted all along. Tatum BOOTS Lyra then rolls her up, but Roxie breaks it! Roxie TOSSES Lyra, but Tatum creeps up on her! Tatum also creeps Roxie out, and she backs up, for Lyra to trip her and drag her out! Lyra CLUBS and KNEES Roxie, but Roxie shoves her away. Tatum runs but Lyra blocks the copycat dropkick! Lyra drags Tatum out to trip her up and Tatum hits the apron!
Lyra gets Roxie up, meeting of the minds for Roxie and Tatum! Lyra then runs to WRECK them both with the dropkick! The fans fire up as Lyra goes out to fetch Tatum. Lyra puts her in, climbs up a corner, but Roxie drags her down! Lyra kicks Roxie away, then BOOTS her down! Lyra continues the climb, the fans duel, but Lyra jumps over Tatum. Tatum runs up at her, Lyra dodges to springboard and CROSSBODY! Lyra gets Tatum up, blocks a shot and SLAPS Tatum, to then SHOTGUN her down! Lyra whips corner to corner, then reels Tatum in for a NORTHERN LIGHTS! Bridging cover, Roxie breaks it!
Roxie drags Lyra up to fire hands! The fans duel, Roxie UPPERCUTS and whips but Lyra reverses to NORTHERN LIGHTS! Bridging cover, TWO! The fans rally as Lyra brings Roxie up. Roxie fights the waistlock with elbows, then drops to victory roll! TWO, Lyra has it, TWO! Both get up, Roxie goes for an arm, but Lyra slips free. Lyra waistlocks, Roxie switches, Tatum joins in! Roxie ELBOWS Tatum, O’Conner Rolls Lyra, TWO! Roxie tumbles out hard! Tatum waistlocks Lyra but Lyra switches! O’Conner, TWO! Lyra goes up, Roxie is there to SHOVE her down! Roxie then goes up, tells Lyra off, but Tatum runs up!
Roxie ROCKS Tatum first, then CROSSBODIES! But Tatum rolls through! TWO!! Roxie knees low, says Tatum isn’t getting her title! But Tatum TOSSES Roxie out onto Lyra! The fans fire u pas Tatum says it IS her title now! Tatum says she told Lyra so, and NXT goes picture in picture.
Tatum storms out to fetch Lyra up and SMACKS Lyra’s arm on the apron! Tatum CLUBS Lyra, then clamps onto the bad arm to POST it! Tatum drags Lyra back up to put her in the ring, but Roxie anchors her foot! Tatum kicks Roxie away into the steel steps! Tatum slides in but Lyra drop toeholds! But Tatum avoids the elbow drop! Tatum drops a knee on the bad arm! Tatum SLAPS the hand into a knuckle lock and twists the wrist! Lyra endures, Tatum YANKS the arm, and then brings Lyra up. Tatum whips Lyra to the corner, runs corner to corner to CROSSBODY! Roxie adds a SHOTGUN and takes them both down!
Roxie drags Lyra up, but Lyra RAMS into her! And again! Roxie CLUBS Lyra down, hauls her back up, and whips. Lyra CROSSBODIES but Roxie rolls through! Roxie YANKS the bad arm! Lyra endures as Roxie pulls on the arm, fights up to stack Roxie, TWO as Roxie kicks her away! Roxie then gets Lyra’s arm to wrench and YANK! And RUSSIAN- NO, Lyra fights off the leg sweep! Lyra pries free, throws body shots, but Roxie powers through to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Cover, Tatum breaks it! Tatum drags Roxie up, whips her to a corner, then runs in. Roxie slides out and Tatum hits buckles! Roxie climbs, but Tatum ROCKS her first!
Tatum climbs up but Roxie fights her with body shots. Roxie slips under, and SMACKS Tatum off the buckles! Then Roxie goes up after Tatum, but Tatum holds onto ropes to resist! Roxie CLUBS Tatum, NXT returns to single picture, and Lyra CLUBS both Roxie and Tatum! Lyra gets them both for a DOUBLE POWERBOMB!! The fans are thunderous for “NXT! NXT!” as all three women are down! Lyra fires hands on Tatum, she fires back, then Roxie joins in! Tatum CHOPS Roxie, Lyra CHOPS Roxie! Roxie CHOPS them back! Lyra ROCKS Tatum, HEADBUTTS, then she CLUBS Tatum! Lyra gives Roxie a SOBAT, KICK, HEADBUTT, SOBAT!
Tatum storms up so she gets a SOBAT, KICK, HEADBUTT! Roxie storms up but Lyra ENZIGIRIS! Tatum returns but she ducks the enzigiri! Tatum reels Lyra into a fireman’s carry, swing and- NO, Lyra slips free! Lyra kicks low, fisherman, and BUSTER! Cover, Roxie breaks it! Lyra snarls, kicks Roxie low then reels her in. FISHERMAN- NO, Roxie cradle counters! TWO!! Lyra escapes, Roxie SMACKS her! Lyra sits back, Roxie RAMS her into buckles! Roxie then runs in to UPPERCUT! Roxie goes corner to corner to UPPERCUT Tatum! Roxie wrenches Tatum, wrangles her, but Lyra runs in! So Roxie gets Lyra! CROSSFACE!!
Lyra endures, but Tatum puts a CROSSFACE on Roxie!! Roxie flails, rolls it to a cover, Lyra breaks it! Roxie gets Tatum up first to wrench and clinch, “This is Awesome!” Lyra runs in, Roxie kicks her first! Roxie reels Lyra in, DDT LEG SWEEP COMBO! Cover, TWO!! Lyra survives so Roxie covers Tatum! TWO!! Roxie is losing her cool but she hurries to get Tatum up. Tatum swings, misses, and Roxie wrenches to serve SOLE FOOD! Cover, Lyra breaks it! Roxie drags Lyra up, fires a forearm, but Lyra hits back! They go back and forth shot for shot! Lyra windmills haymakers then whips, but Roxie ducks the leg lariat!
Roxie comes back, tilt-o-whirl, but Lyra turns that into a GERMAN SUPLEX! Tatum runs in, into a waistlock! But she victory rolls Lyra into Roxie’s BOOT! Roxie hops onto Tatum, Tatum shrugs her off into the HEEL KICK! Roxie tumbles away, Tatum sunset flips Lyra! TWO!!! Lyra escapes but Tatum hurries to whip! Lyra blocks, kicks, but Tatum ducks! MADE IN JAPAN!! Tatum hurries up a corner and the fans are going wild! 450 SPLASH!!! Cover, Roxie high stacks her!! ROXIE WINS!!!
Winner: Roxanne Perez, by pinfall (still NXT Women’s Champion)
The Prodigy proved she’s a prodigy in opportunism! She snatches victory from the jaws of defeat, will nothing and no one stop her now?
Fallon Henley, Kelani Jordan & Thea Hail talk backstage.
Fallon asks if Thea and Mr. Chase got everything sorted. Yes, thank goodness. But it was so rude for Jacy Jayne to put him on the spot like that. But Thea will handle Jacy next week, and that Chase U is all on the same page. And she’s thankful to have so many amazing people around her. From Fallon to Kelani to Mr. Chase to Riley and Duke. Kelani says they’ve got her. Thea says so many wonderful people make her better! Jaida Parker cannot take hearing this anymore. Fallon Henley, NXT’s hero! The most popular loner she has ever seen. Fallon should worry about herself and not give her opinion on everyone else’s life.
Fallon asks if Jaida has a problem. They can, so what’s up? Fallon is the one sick and tired of- Jaida don’t care, and she pushes Fallon. Fallon pushes back, and the rest of the locker room rushes in to stop this from getting physical! Will the Cowgirl have to show Ms. Parker that she should take her own advice about keeping to herself?
A new duo is ready to Level Up!
“What it do, NXT? It’s ya boi, Tyson Dupont, baby! He’s the BRICK!” “And I’m Tyriek Igwe. Ya bois in the building!” Next week, they debut in front of the world. They’re so strong yet so smooth, ready to go pound for pound with anybody or any team. Any team that steps to them end up under these Timberlands. When these boots start stomping and bodies start flying, grown men start crying! See y’all next week.
Backstage interview with The Diamond Mine.
Kelly Kincaid is with Ivy Nile & The Creed Brothers and welcomes them back. Brutus says they wouldn’t miss this for the world! Dragunov VS Trick, one of the biggest title matches in NXT history! Ivy remembers when the Creeds were chasing the NXT Tag Team Championships. And now, Trick’s on a chase of his own. Julius says it feels like it was yesterday. But the moment Trick’s picked up is truly remarkable. They saw from day one how Trick’s worked hard and bet on himself. Julius says Trick will slay the dragon. Brutus isn’t sure about that, but if there’s anyone who can, it is Trick Willy! The Real Dealy, lookin’ like a milli!
So then what he’s saying is… WHOOP DAT TRICK! Uh huh! I like it! Okay! The Diamond Mine heads out, will they be on the winning side of the main event?
Six Man Tag: The D’Angelo Family VS No Quarter Catch Crew!
The Don will neither confirm nor deny what they did to… handle a certain situation. However, he will ask that he is paid for services rendered. Will he, Luca Crusifino & Channing Lorenzo get their money through the winner’s purse tonight? Or will Charlie Dempsey, Damon Kemp & Myles Borne give no quarter, literally and figuratively?
NXT returns and NQCC make their entrance. The teams sort out and then hands start flying! The ref reprimands but Stacks TOSSES Myles out to PLANCHA, only to miss! Kemp and Luca tumble out the side, the bell rings, and Dempsey BOOTS Tony! Dempsey UPPERCUTS again and again, but Tony runs up to TACKLE him! Tony rains down fists but Dempsey gets the TRIANGLE HOLD! Tony deadlifts to POWERBOMB Dempsey! Tony says this is what they get for not paying up! But then Dempsey ROCKS Tony, knees low, and wrenches an arm. Tony RAMS Dempsey into the corner, but Myles runs up.
Tony DECKS Myles, but Dempsey CLUBS Tony! Dempsey fires more knees, Kemp tags in, and they set Tony up for a leg pick and ANKLE LOCK, then a STOMP on the leg! Kemp stomps Tony, throws hands but Tony fires hands in return! Tony RAMS Kemp into the corner, Stacks tags in! Tony sends Stacks in to SPLASH! Then Stacks bumps Kemp off buckles, brings him around, and ROCKS him with haymakers! Kemp falls over, gets up, and Stacks drop toeholds. Stacks rains down fists, then a FIST DROP! Tag to Luca and the mugging continues! Luca tells Kemp to pay up, pay up! Stacks feeds Kemp toa BOOT!
Luca gets Kemp up but Kemp SPINEBUSTERS! The two scrap, go around, Myles manages to tag in. Myles BOOTS Luca, storms up and stomps him around. Myles brings Luca up but Luca throws body shots. Myles knees low, whips Luca but Luca reveres. Luca runs up, but Myles BOOTS him! Myles goes up, leaps, but into an UPPERCUT! The fans fire up while both men are down! Myles flounders, comes back, DROPKICK to Luca! Cover, ONE!! Luca stays in this but Myles tags Dempsey in. Dempsey tags Kemp, but Luca fights back! That’s 3v1 so Tony & Stacks run up to fight back! The fans fire up as its chaos once again!
Tony LARIATS Dempsey up and out, he and The Family stand tall, but then they go back out after NQCC! Kemp CANNONBALLS onto everyone! The NQCC turn things around and NXT goes picture in picture.
NQCC put Luca back in, Kemp stomps and drops an elbow! Kemp drags Luca over, tag to Myles, and they double whip to DOUBLE ELBOW! Kemp DOUBLE STOMPS, Myles covers, TWO! Myles drags Luca over, tags Dempsey, and they mug Luca again. Dempsey UPPERCUTS, brings Luca around and GUT WRENCH SUPLEXES! Cover, TWO! Dempsey keeps Luca down with a facelock, then brings him back to the corner. Tag to Myles, they mug Luca, and Myles fires hands. Myles whips, but Luca holds ropes! Luca BOOTS back, then dodges! Hot tag to Stacks! Stacks rallies on Myles, trips him and drops down to rain down fists!
Myles gest away but Stacks DROPKICKS Myles down! Then he DECKS Kemp! Stacks drags Myles up, Myles shoves him away and then DROPKICKS him! Kemp holds ropes down so Stacks tumbles up and out! Kemp SMACKS Stacks off the apron, RAMS him in, then puts him in the ring. Myles KNEES Stacks in the back and stomps away. Myles whips Stacks hard into the corner! Tag to Kemp and he ROCKS Stacks with a right hand. Kemp stomps Stacks in the corner, whips him corner to corner hard, then back drops Stacks on the rebound! Cover, TWO! Kemp facelocks to bring Stacks up and around, tag to Dempsey.
The NQCC mug Stacks then Dempsey UPPERCUTS him down! Dempsey clamps onto Stacks and hauls him up, SWINGING BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Dempsey drags Stacks around by a leg, tags Myles, and then Dempsey stretches Stacks so Myles and KICK him in the side! Myles ROCKS Stacks with a right, ROCKS him again, then tags Dempsey back in. The mugging continues as NXT returns to single picture. Dempsey snapmares Stacks into a chinlock but the fans rally as Stacks endures. Stacks fights up, pries the hold open, and elbows free! Stacks runs, CROSSBODIES, and covers, ONE!!
Dempsey stands, blocks a kick, and DRAGON SCREWS! Dempsey pushes on Stacks’ knee, has a standing KNEEBAR, but Stacks endures! The fans rally, Stacks fights, but Dempsey keeps him back! Dempsey ducks the enzigiri! Dempsey stomps Stacks, waistlocks, but Stacks powers him back! Kemp tags in, he tags Myles, and they DROPKICK GERMAN SUPLEX COMBO! Cover, TWO!! Stacks is hanging in there but Myles stands on him. Dempsey tags in to stomp Stacks down. Dempsey hauls Stacks up to FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Not quite perfect, but Dempsey goes right to a HALF CRAB!
The fans rally as Stacks endures but Dempsey sits deep! Stacks fights, crawls, reaches out, but Dempsey steps over for an ANKLE LOCK! Stacks fights up, ENZIGIRI! That one hit and Dempsey falls out of the ring! Myles runs in, Stacks sends him back out! Stacks hurries, but Myles YANKS Tony down! The tag misses, and then Dempsey drags Luca down! Tony DECKS Myles, storms back up, Stacks tags in him! Tony rallies on the NQCC with haymaker after haymaker! BELLY2BELLY for Kemp! BELLY2BELLY for Myles! Dempsey runs in, Tony dodges him, and then SPINEBUSTER! The fans are thunderous, Tony covers, but then moves so that the DOUBLE STOMPS hit Dempsey!
Tony gets Kemp up, but Dempsey CHOP BLOCKS a leg! Dempsey tags Kemp in, he tags Myles, and they get Tony up! OLYMPIC NECKBREAKER!! Cover, TWO!!! Tony survives and the fans are thunderous! Dempsey tags in, he gets Tony up, underhooks and BUTTERFLY SUPLEX BRIDGE!! Cover, Stacks breaks it! kemp whips but Stacks reverses to TOSS Kemp! Myles ROCKS Stacks, runs, but Luca jumps in, SHATTER MACHINE!! Dempsey KNEES Luca down! Then he has the FULL NELSON on Tony! Tony powers out, shoves, SPINEBUSTER again! Cover, The Family wins!
Winner: The D’Angelo Family, by pinfall
A huge win for The Don, the Underboss and the Consigliere, but bigger still is that now, Tony D has a win over the Heritage Cup Champion(s)! Will Tony bring that trophy home to The Family to make up for the money owed?
WWE shares a digital exclusive.
Baron Corbin was in the middle of a photoshoot in relation to the loss of the NXT Tag Team Championships. Did he know what Bron Breakker was going to say post match? No, not at all. Corbin never knows what Bron is gonna say before the match, during the moment, and we’re lucky if any of it makes sense. But then in walks Lexis King. He says it’s okay, keep the cameras rolling, this is a great moment. From a “True King” to a “pretender,” Lexis heard Corbin was leaving NXT so here’s a going away basket. Oh, wonder who put this together, with the big picture of Lexis himself in it. And the card just says, “Goodbye.”
Okay, look, Lexis is hearing people who hope Corbin is leaving. Yeah, well, Bron is on SmackDown, having the time of his life, not worried about Corbin at all. But let’s face it, Corbin will strap his wagon onto the next second generation superstar that will be bigger, better and more handsome than anyone else. And come to think of it, King accepts! And you’re welcome. King heads out, Corbin says what he does know is, Lexis is a tool and no way that beard is real. Will the Lone Wolf make sure to humble the Drama King and make him wish Corbin was leaving?
Fallon Henley VS Jaida Parker w/ OTM!
That confrontation backstage has everybody fired up, so it’s time to take it to the ring! Will it be #YEEHAWB*TCH tonight? Or will Miss Parker make this all about herself ahead of both the WWE Draft and the Women’s North American Championship chase?
Entrances are made while NXT is picture in picture. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, go around, and Jaida waistlocks. Fallon switches, Jaida hip bumps free and waistlocks to SLAM Fallon down. Jaida talks trash, but Fallon SLAPS her! Jaida swings, Fallon dodges to wrench and YANK the arm. Fallon wrangles Jaida with a hammerlock but Jaida scrambles around. Fallon pulls on the arm, Jaida fights up, but Fallon wrenches to YANK the arm again! And again! Fallon wrenches again, but Jaida pulls hair and knees low. Jaida bumps Fallon off buckles, CHOPS her, then talks more trash. So Fallon SLAPS her again!
Jaida SLAPS back, whips, but Fallon goes up and over! Fallon rolls, ducks ‘n’ dodges, then CROSSBODIES, but Jaida catches her! Jaida pops Fallon around but Fallon slips free! Fallon wrenches, wristlocks, but Jaida ROCKS her with a forearm. Jaida bumps Fallon off buckles, then puts her in the ropes. NXT returns to single picture as Fallon fights free! Fallon drop toehold Jaida, Jaida goes to ropes, and Fallon runs in to slide out and HAYMAKER! Fallon tells OTM is next if they don’t back up. Jaida runs up but Fallon RAMS into her! Fallon body scissor rolls, TWO! Fallon wrenches, wristlocks, but Jaida powers up and whips.
Fallon ducks ‘n’ dodges then trips Jaida, to then CALF KICK! Jaida goes to a corner, Fallon runs up but she blocks a boto! Fallon whips, Jaida reverses, but Fallon goes up, only to get thrown onto the ropes! Fallon flops down, and Jaida puts her in the ropes to CHOP! The fans fire up as Jaida DROPS IT LIKE IT’S HOT! Jaida then drags Fallon up, wrenches and runs her over! Jaida drags Fallon up to run her over again, and again! Jaida drags Fallon up, whips her to ropes and KNEES her low! Fallon flounders, Jaida talks more trash then covers, TWO! Jaida clinches for a BEARHUG! Fallon endures as Jaida thrashes her around!
The fans rally and Fallon fights the hold. Fallon HEADBUTTS, runs, sunset flips, TWO! Jaida sit son it, TWO! Jaida runs to then throw Fallon by her hair! Cover, TWO! Jaida is frustrated but she drags Fallon into a seated COBRA TWIST! Fallon endures, the fans rally, and Fallon fights up. Jaida squeezes tighter but Fallon still endures. Fallon gets to her feet, pries the hold open and arm-drags Jaida away! Jaida runs up but into an ELBOW! Fallon traps the arms, HEADBUTTS, and staggers. Fallon fires forearm after forearm, then whips. HAYMAKER! Jaida gets up, Fallon LARIATS her down! And then body shot, ELBOW and CHOP!
Fallon SMASHES Jaida off her knee, then runs! FLYING FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Fallon is frustrated but she gets Jaida back up. Jaida wrenches free, swings, but misses! Fallon goes up and up, leaps over Jaida and rolls again, to then get around and waistlock! Jaida fights the lift, and then SLINGS Fallon into ropes! TEAR DROP!! Cover, Jaida wins!
Winner: Jaida Parker, by pinfall
OTM celebrates with their girl, and Miss Parker blows a kiss to the camera. Will she be the one to grab that Women’s North American Championship?
Jacy Jayne & Jazmyn Nyx speak.
The Toxic Element speaks first: “Ungrateful. That’s what I think of when I hear the name Thea Hail. I gave you a free road to success, a one way ticket to the hottest attraction in NXT. I even stood behind you in hopes that one day, you would realize that Jacy Jayne always knows best. But Thea, did you fall and smack your little head on the pavement? Or maybe I missed the part where you said ‘Thank you.’ Everything that I’ve done for you. I took you under my wing, I made you into everything that you wanted to be. You should be kissing the ground I walk on, begging for my wisdom on your hands and knees.
“But instead, all you did was show that you’re an ungrateful little girl. So next week at Spring Breakin’ week 2, I’m gonna end you. And Thea, you’re gonna learn that gratitude is not an option, but a debt that you will repay to me.” Jacy thinks Thea will see the truth, but will next week be a #TeachableMoment for Jacy?
Lola Vice speaks.
“Being a legend gives Natalya confidence, and rightfully so. But that confidence will be her downfall. If she’s confident enough to think she can handle being overseas on a rigorous touring schedule, and then waltz back into NXT, into my domain… she better think again. Natalya, come NXT Underground, you’re entering my world.” Natty wants Lola to show her what she’s made of, but while Natty is out there being a legend, Lola is becoming one at Natty’s expense. The contract signing is tonight, will there be fireworks before the fight?
Backstage interview with JD McDonagh.
Kelly Kincaid is with the Irish Ace as he’s also here to watch Dragunov VS Trick. What are his predictions? Well, he and Dragunov have history, one of the greatest rivalries in NXT. He thinks he can speak with more experience than most that the only way to beat Dragunov is to hospitalize him. And as someone who’s done both, he doesn’t think Trick Williams is up to it. Dragunov retains. But then in come the New Catch Republic! Tyler Bate more or less drags Pete Dunne along, he’s that excited about Dragunov VS Trick! Those boys are gonna smash the spuds outta each other! It’s happening, Pete! It’s happening!
Pete says his money’s on Dragunov. That’s a bad man right there. He’s absolutely solid. Bate says Trick’s always bounced back, though, so he’s got the tekkers. #WhoopDatTrick! The Big Strong Boi and the Bruiserweight are torn, who will be backing the right horse in the race?
Ava Raine is in the ring.
And fitting of NXT Underground, the ropes are gone and there are prospects all lining the ring, drumming the apron. Ava says as NXT GM, one of the most important parts of her job is continuing to push this brand into a new era, and breaking glass ceilings. That is why she is honored to host the contract signing for the first ever Women’s Underground match! At this time, let’s bring out the competitors. First, with her corner-person Karmen Petrovic, Natalya! The fans cheer as the Queen of Harts has her Canadian Connection with her as she goes to the ring. They take their seats on one side of the podium, and then Natty signs on the dotted line.
The fans cheer as Natty says she loves the NXT fans. Her part is done, so now we welcome out her opponent, Lola Vice. Fans are torn as the Mayor of Vice City struts her way out. Lola signs her part, and it is officially in the books! History: made! But then Natty says Lola sealed the deal, so who does she have in her corner? Lola says in Spanish that Natty is so stupid. Natty is more worried about who is in her corner than what Lola’s gonna do to her? But Lola will make something clear: just because she shakes her ass doesn’t mean she can’t kick your ass! And next week, they’re making history. And next week, Lola WILL break Natty.
The fans appreciate the Rocky 4 line, but Natty tells Lola that from the first moment they met, Natty knew Lola had an ego that needs to be kept in check. But one thing about Natty is that she respects Lola where she came from, how Lola was fighting in the cage. But it seems Lola doesn’t respect Natty was made in a dungeon! And if you can survive the dungeon, you can survive anything! Natty respects the superstars of the past, of the present, but if Lola wants to be the future, then Natty’s gonna beat some respect into her! The fans like that, too! “She’s The Boat! She’s The Boat!” Natty says next week, she wants Lola to bring everything she’s got, because Natty will tap dat ass out!
Lola just smiles as she says Natty can try. But when the lights dim, Natty’s fate is in Lola’s hands. The fastest hands in this division. And Lola’s training partner will make them even faster. Because it’s SHAYNA BASZLER!! The Queen of Spades is the ace up Lola’s sleeve, and even Natty knows this is going to be a hard hand to beat. Shayna stands beside Lola, fans chant “Welcome Back! Welcome Back!” Shayna tells Natty that she’s smart enough to tell that her chances just went from slim to none. When it comes to fighting around here, the most dangerous woman in NXT is aligned with the baddest woman in the WWE.
So Natty, there is still time to bow out gracefully. Just take the contract and tear it up. Especially if uh, this is her partner., Shayna shoves Karmen, so Karmen ROUNDHOUSEES Shayna! And the brawl is on between Natty and Lola! The fans are thunderous as natty TOSSES Lola onto the prospects! The ante has just been raised in this match, who makes the other fold in the Underground?
NXT Media catches up with Ridge Holland.
They ask Yorkshire Grit how he feels after his return victory. It was a start. It’s been a rough few months, but Ridge wants to rack up victories and show he can earn success the right way. But then Shawn Spears applauds as he walks over. “Bravo, Ridge. For a second, it actually looked like you believe everything you were just saying.” Ridge tells Spears to leave him alone. Spears says maybe Ridge is finally seeing what he’s capable of. And that he likes it! Why not embrace it then? They both know what Ridge wants to do to Spears right now, so why not do it? Give in to those thoughts. Or better yet, let them out.
Ridge chuckles and says he knows what Spears is up to. He can’t rile Ridge up. See you around. Ridge leaves, but will Spears still pull out the “truth?”
The Final Testament speaks.
Karrion Kross says, “Good evening. This is your former two-time NXT Champion just letting you know we’re about to take you back to the good old days. Where we left everyone beaten and broken. And if you don’t have an army behind you or a little miracle in your pocket, you’re going eight miles out, and six feet under.” Paul Ellering says the Authors of Pain, Akam & Rezar, have a clear destiny. They’re coming for all the gold! And that will be their dynasty. They will bring destruction back to NXT! Nathan Frazer, Axiom, prepare for the end. Scarlett says, “So saith the Final Testament.” Will NXT have no choice but to Fall & Pray?
The locker room responds.
Axiom says, “Bringing back the good old days? Destruction? These guys coming in and ruining our championship celebration…!” Frazer says yeah, they’re monsters. But he could care less! Axiom says somehow, someway, they will beat the Authors of Pain! Malik Blade says yeah, screw AOP! Hank ‘n’ Tank and the others agree. Why’re all these RawDown teams coming in here, demanding opportunities? The rest of NXT can’t even catch a break. The Good Brothers step in and say yeah! They’re so sick of all these other teams coming in here, trying to take those titles! After all, this is NXT! Edris Enofe says no one else is saying it, so he will.
The Good Brothers- OOPS! He just dropped his mirror! And it broke… That’s bad luck, isn’t it? Was Edris about to say something. No… The Good Brothers leave, has Edris just jinxed himself and all of the NXT Tag Division?
Beach Brawl: Sol Ruca VS Blair Davenport!
NXT Underground isn’t the only place where there are no rules! The Sol Surfer and the Ichiban Gaijin are throwing the rules away so they can finally get even with each other once and for all! Will Sol get snatched? Or will it be Blair who has to beware the consequences of her actions?
NXT returns and Sol makes her entrance, bringing her own surfboard to beat down Blair! Blair already has one of her own, thanks! Blair swings, but Sol dodges to SMACK Blair! The bell rings, Sol puts her board aside, only for Blair to SMACK her with the boogie board! Blair shoves the surfboard aside, goes up the steps, and leaps, into a boogie board SMACK! Sol pushes Blair into the ring, grabs some sports balls, and gets in the ring with her. Blair chucks a beach ball but Sol swats it! Sol then DECKS Blair, then she puts an innertube around her! Sol BOPS Blair with footballs and dodgeballs, then whips and CLOBBERS her!
Blair flounders out of the ring, Sol pursues, and she SMACKS Blair off the apron! Blair hits back, avoids Sol’s boot, but Sol does the splits on the apron to dodge back! Sol BOOTS Blair down and then goes to the picnic table. Sol grabs the bench seat, props it up against the apron, and then she brings Blair up. But Blair whips Sol into the bench! The bench doesn’t break but Sol still feels the pain. Blair drags Sol up but Blair fights the suplex! Sol fights free to ROCK Blair! Blair knees low, then POSTS Sol! Blair drags Sol back up, brings her back around, and SMACKS her off the apron! Blair fires forearm after forearm, then goes looking for goodies.
Blair SPIKES a beach ball on Sol’s head! Sol SMACKS Blair with the boogie board! Blair CHOPS Sol, shoves her into steps, then goes looking under the ring. Sol brings out a chair! But Sol blocks the chair shot! Sol kicks low, then runs up, to handspring through the toss! X-FACTOR into the kiddy pool ball pit! Sol shoves the surfboard down onto Blair, then stomps on it! Sol hangs ten on Blair and the fans cheer as she DOUBLE STOMPS! Blair sputters while NXT goes picture in picture.
Sol throws down balls on Blair, SPIKES a beach ball on her now, then drags her out of the pool. Sol puts Blair in the ring, climbs the corner, and CARTWHEEL- NO, Blair avoids the DDT to kick low! Blair whips, Sol goes up and out! Solo rams in but Blair dodges to KNEE her! Blair goes up and up to GUILLOTINE DOUBLE STOMP! The ref checks Sol but she’s okay to continue. Blair goes out, looks under the ring, and brings out another chair. Blair puts that chair in, gets the boogie board, puts that in, then finds a bucket! Blair SMACKS Sol with the bucket, SMACKS her with the boogie board, then SMACKS her again! And of course, Blair SMACKS Sol with the chair!
Blair sits the chair up, makes Sol take a seat, and then fires forearms and CHOPS! Blair ROCKS Sol, CHOPS Sol, then repeat! But Sol hits back! Sol gets the edge, shoves Blair and drop toeholds her into the chair! Sol crawls her way over, props herself up with the chair, and then brings that around, only for Blair to SHOTGUN the chair into her! Solo tumbles out, Blair pursues, and the brawl is on! Blair scoops Sol to SLAM her through a surfboard! Solo writhes, Blair says this is over! Blair drags Sol up and into the ring, pushes her to a cover, TWO! Solo is still in this and Blair is seething. Blair sets the chair up again, and pulls Sol through it!
Blair has the arms, it’s a FULL METAL CAMEL CLUTCH! Sol endures as we return to single picture, and Blair BOOTS Sol out of the chair! Sol crawls, Blair stalks her, and brings her around Sol SMACKS Blair with the bucket! And SMACKS her with the boogie board! And SMACKS her again, and again, and then gets the chair! Blair takes the chair away, but Sol dodges to springboard and FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE! Sol runs, trips Blair, handsprings over and SUPERKICKS! Blair is down, Sol STANDING BOODIE BOARD SAULT! Cover, TWO! Blair survives but Sol drags her right up. Sol scoops, but Blair slips free.
Blair SUPERKICKS Sol, then runs! But Sol SUPERKICKS again! Blair wobbles, Sol fireman’s carries, SWINGING POWERBOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Blair survives but Sol keeps her cool. Sol goes to a corner, goes up an dup, but Blair SUPER GERMAN SUPLEXES her down! Cover, TWO!! Sol survives and Blair is frustrated. Blair stalks Sol out of the ring, puts the surfboard up against the corner, and she brings Sol around. Blair whips, Sol reverses and Blair SMACKS off the board! Sol goes to the barrier, she cartwheels, but Blair SHOVES her into the Plexiglas! Blair clears the picnic table and positions it before going for Sol.
The fans rally as Blair goes up the barrier, but Sol fires body shots! They brawl int he gap, and Sol picks Blair up as a backpack! BACKPACK SENTONÂ through the picnic table!! The fans lose their minds while the ref checks. Sol rises and roars, and the fans fire up again! Solo drags Blair up and puts her in the ring. Solo then climbs to the apron, steps in and runs, springboard for the SOL SNATCHER!! Cover, Sol wins!
Winner: Sol Ruca, by pinfall
Now that was tubular! Sol gets her revenge, will this wave of momentum help her go all the way to the NXT Women’s North American Championship?
Trick Williams is on the phone.
“What’d the doctors say?” That she’s getting better. Trick tells Mama Williams that he’s fighting tonight, so she needs to fight. Well then she needs him to #WhoopDatTrick. Trick says, “I love you, Mama.” “I love you, too.” Trick hangs up the phone, and then in steps Johnny Wrestling! Gargano says hey, big night! How’s he feeling? Trick knows this is his last chance. His career’s on the line, but he loves this place. Gargano knows that feeling. And it’s a man Trick hasn’t beat before. he thought the pressure was on at Stand & Deliver, or last week in the cage. But tonight, this is pressure. Gargano says no pressure, no diamonds.
Trick’s lost to Dragunov before, but he needs to take all that loss, that pain, that betrayal and use it. It is not a burden, it is a weapon. It is what made Trick stronger. It has built Trick for this moment! It has made Trick who he is, there is only one Trick Williams! And Dragunov has not beaten that Trick Williams. When Gargano won the NXT Championship, it changed his life. But he had to give everything to do it. Is Trick willing to do that? Is he willing to give that much to slay the Mad Dragon and win the NXT Championship? He is. Then #WhoopDatTrick! Gargano says it is Trick’s night, but will Trick get it done?
Meta Four posts to TikTok.
Via Jakara Jackson’s account, she, Lash Legend, Noam Dar & Oro Mensah have the fans join them on the road trip to the NXT Orlando live event. They had some car troubles, though, but the ladies got it done. Then Lash plays the “Oh no, crash!” prank on them all while they were napping. And that was just the first ten minutes!
Baron Corbin VS Lexis King!
The Wolf Dogs may no longer be NXT Tag Team Champions, but that doesn’t mean The Lone Wolf sulks and returns to RawDown with tail tucked between his legs. Will he prove to the Drama King that Corbin does what he wants? Or will defeating a former King of the Ring be Lexis’ crowning achievement?
NXT returns as Lexis makes his entrance. The bell rings, they circle, then tie up. King waistlocks and shoves Corbin, then they circle again. Corbin blocks a kick to ROCK King, then has King in a corner. Corbin TOSSES King across the ring! King bails out, Corbin goes after him and sends him into barriers! The fans fire up as Corbin puts King in the ring. King comes back to ROCK Corbin! King CHOPS, then runs up, but into a CORNER URENAGE! Cover, TWO! The fans rally for Corbin as he drags King up. Corbin runs to run King over! The fans cheer and Corbin drags King up. Corbin DECKS King, then has him on ropes.
Corbin CHOKES King, the fans cheer, but the ref counts. Corbin lets off at 4, has King in a corner and throws hands! Corbin then runs, runs King over again, then covers, ONE! King toughs it out, but Corbin brings him up and around. Corbin runs, but King dropkicks the legs out! King then CLUBS Corbin down and fires hands! The fans boo, Corbin shoves King away, but King runs up to CHOP! King brings Corbin around to CLUB him, then snapmare for a KICK! King HAMMERS down on Corbin, drops an ax handle, then covers, ONE! Corbin is tougher than that, but King brings him up. King whips but Corbin fights it.
King kicks, CHOPS and bumps Corbin off buckles. King then uses the ropes for leverage as he digs boots in. The ref counts, King lets off, but Corbin CHOPS back! King knees low, CLUBS Corbin down, then whips. Corbin reverses but King KICKS back! King kicks a leg out, says Hail to the King, BLINDSIDER! Cover, TWO! Corbin survives but King eggs him on. King kicks Corbin around, CHOPS, then DROPKICKS! Corbin rebounds to LARIAT! The fans fire up as Corbin shakes out the stars. Corbin then runs to clothesline in the corner! The fans cheer as Corbin back drops King away! King staggers up, Corbin suplexes for the CUTTER! Cover, TWO!
King stays in this but then bails out of the ring. Corbin pursues, but King SUPERKICKS! King returns to the ring, Corbin pursues, and Corbin storms up, into another SUPERKICK! King trips Corbin, high stacks with feet on ropes! The ref sees that and says nope! King argues with the ref, but Corbin fireman’s carries! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO!! King survives but Corbin reels him in! King gets under to shove Corbin into the ref! LOW BLOW!! And then CORONATION!! Cover, King wins!
Winner: Lexis King, by pinfall
The Drama King steals the biggest win in his young career! He blows kisses to the booing fans, but will Lexis make NXT into his kingdom?
The visiting NXT Alumni join the crowd!
The Diamond Mine are behind commentary, Johnny Gargano joins New Catch Republic in the Chase U student section, and they’re all excited to watch this high stakes main event!
NXT Championship, Trick’s Last Chance: Ilja Dragunov VS Trick Williams!
After an absolute saga spanning multiple matches, many twists and turns, and both men managing to Stand & Deliver in Philadelphia, it all ends here. Either Trick slays the Mad Dragon, or he leaves NXT forever. Something’s gotta give, who comes away THE NXT Champion?
Before his entrance, Dragunov is interviewed by Sarah. We are moments away from the main event, what are his thoughts? Trick has gained Dragunov’s respect. But all Dragunov has in this life are his family, and this title. And Trick’s not going to change that. Dragunov is forever #UNBESIEGBAR. But then in steps WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Damian Priest!! From champ to champ, the Punisher wishes Dragunov luck. Dragunov goes to gorilla, and Priest asks Sarah how she doin’. We cut to Byron Saxton with Trick Williams. Byron asks Trick for any final thoughts before the biggest match of his career.
Trick says we all know what this is: Either Trick wins tonight, or he leaves NXT. Either he is the champion, or he’s a bust. Either he proves himself right or proves himself wrong, but either way he’s gonna fight! If there’s one thing you need to know about Trick, it’s that he fears no man. He can live with the results, whether he wins or he loses. But like Mama Williams said, time to #WhoopDatTrick. The challenger makes his entrance first, but will it be his last?
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When it comes to becoming champion, you gotta do it yourself!
While DIY challenge Awesome Truth for the World Tag Team Championships, the Raw Women’s Division battle (royal) to be THE Women’s World Champion!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE World Tag Team Championships: The Awesome Truth VS DIY; Awesome Truth wins and retain the titles.
- The New Day VS Imperium; New Day wins.
- Sheamus VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Sheamus wins.
- Ricochet & Andrade El Idolo VS
Dominik MysterioSantos Escobar & JD McDonagh; Ricochet & Andrade win. - Vacated WWE Women’s World Championship Battle Royal: Becky Lynch wins and is the new WWE Women’s World Champion.
PLAY BY PLAY
Michael Cole & Pat McAfee are in the ring!
They welcome us to the show, and note that Rhea Ripley had to vacate her Women’s World Championship last week due to injury. And so in the majestic state of O H I O, this is one of the biggest matches in WWE history! For the fourth time ever, a battle royal will determine a new champion! Nearly every woman on Raw is in this match, and the last one standing will be the BRAND NEW Women’s World Champion! Columbus loves the sound of that, and we get a recap package of Rhea’s emotional departure.
Jey Uso is here!
Columbus is bouncing with the YEET Master, as is Pat, as we’re just weeks away from Backlash and the World Heavyweight Championship match. Jey gets a mic to tell Columbus, “Main Event Jey Uso is now in your city~!” Jey continues by saying Backlash is in two weeks. “YEET!” Backlash is in two weeks! “YEET!” So he’s got a lot to prove! “YEET!” To the world! “YEET!” That he is Main Event Jey Uso! “YEET!” Jey has to beat Damian Priest. He has to make sure everything he’s been through was worth it. But wait, here comes Priest! The World Heavyweight Champion makes his way out, without the rest of the Judgment Day, to go right to the ring.
Priest gets a mic as he steps in and tells Jey to take it easy. Whatever Jey thins Priest is here for, he’s wrong. Priest just wants to tell Jey that his whole presentation, the YEET, “Main Event Jey,” that vibe… It suits Jey. Congratulations. The fans applaud the respect shown. Priest then tells Jey that they went to war last year. But Priest wants to talk about one specific night. Priest’s never said this publicly, and Jey will know if he’s lying. But there was one night where Jey whooped Priest’s ass so bad, that Priest then went up to Jey backstage and told him to his face that Jey earned Priest’s respect. That’s why Priest wanted Jey in the Judgment Day.
And then Priest said they were going out and drinks were on him. Now, Priest doesn’t remember much else, but he does remember one: he paid the bill, Jey had that Bloodline good stuff. Jey admits, they needed Uber. And two: Jey said something to Priest that Priest is very proud of. Jey told Priest that they were next. Jey said that “We next, Uce.” Priest stands here now, proud to stand with Jey, because Jey was right. The fans applaud, and Priest says if he’s being honest, Jey was half right. Priest was next. Jey says hey man, you almost had him liking you. But Priest says the world title proves why he’s next. And why he’s the now.
It’s okay, though, Jey. Jey is just the first on a list of many that the machine is going ot feed Priest to make sure this looks good on him. Nothing to be ashamed of! Nothing at all! First to fall, but then first to lead the people. The first to lead the fans all across the world in making sure… they all rise for El Campeon. The fans boo Priest’s arrogance, but then Jey says hold on, hold on. Take it easy, Priest. Come on back, let him holla at you. Priest isn’t sure what Jey can say, but go ahead. Jey asks if that’s all Priest sees him as. As just one of the Usos, huh? Tough talk coming from the leader of the Judgment Day.
But the only reason why Priest is in charge is cuz Rhea’s hurt. By the way, how Mami doing? Tell her he said hi! Hey, champ, y’know what that makes you? Dom Mysterio’s B*TCH!! Priest is mad but Jey says GOTTEE! Yeah, Priest did what he did. He cashed in at Mania, made himself World Heavyweight Champion. But you think they’re just feeding Jeyu to Priest? No, Priest’s getting fed to Jey! Jey’s next! The NEXT World Heavyweight Champion! Ohio, if you rocking with Jey Uso, lemme hear ya say “YEET!” “YEET!!” The fans are fired up with Jey and Priest, but then JD McDonagh runs in! Jey dodges JD, who almost runs into Priest!
Jey takes aim, JD ducks, SUPERKICK hits Priest! Whoops! The Irish Ace messed up and Jey says his bad. Jey leaves, JD apologizes, but will Priest have to handle things himself at Backlash?
“The time draws near…”
“The throne… is calling. The King and Queen… will be crowned.” The champions of tomorrow are forged in combat, and victory will set you on a path to greatness. Future Hall of Famers take their first steps towards immortality, and in May, we begin again! Who will make it through the tournament to seize destiny and don the crowns?
WWE World Tag Team Championships: The Awesome Truth VS DIY!
The Miz & R-Truth won the Raw Tag Team Championships at Mania, and were gifted the newly minted World Tag Team Championships just last week. However, all the fun could be done for #RegenerationX as they now face off as opponents. Will these titles still be Awesome? Or will Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano finally have gold again?
Raw returns as the champs make their entrance, “What’s Up?” The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who are truly championship material!
The teams sort out and Truth circles with Gargano. The fans rally behind Truth, he high-fives Gargano then they tie up. Truth wrenches, wristlocks, but Gargano rolls, wrenches and wristlocks back. Truth rolls, rolls, rolls, then gets free. Gargano runs up but into an arm-drag! Truth has the armlock, Gargano fights around, and Gargano powers up to arm-drag free! Truth sweeps, covers, ONE! Gargano goes to sweep but Truth jumps it to do the splits! The fans cheer and even Gargano is impressed. They shake hands, reset, and tie up again. Gargano headlocks but Truth powers out. Miz tags in and Awesome Truth DOUBLE HIP TOSS!
Awesome Truth do their secret handshake then DOUBLE ELBOW DROP! Cover, ONE!! Miz whips Gargano, Gargano goes up and over to roll Miz, but Miz blocks the kick! Gargano kicks free of the Figure Four, tag to Ciampa! Ciampa runs up, fights the full nelson, and elbows free! Miz sees Ciampa means business, so he runs up! Ciampa dodges to CHOP, forearm, and CHOP! Miz swings, but into a dragon sleeper! Miz turns that around, BACKBREAKER, but Ciampa turns neckbreaker into backslide! TWO, Miz trips Ciampa and steps through! FIGURE FOUR! Ciampa endures as the fans fire up, Gargano DROPKICKS Miz!
Truth runs up to whip but Gargano reverses! Truth tumbles out, Miz TOSSES Gargano! Ciampa rolls Miz! TWO, tag to Gargano! Miz swings, Ciampa dodges and Gargano SLINGSHOT SPEARS! Miz tumbles out, Ciampa shakes out his leg to go after Truth. Gargano PLANCHAS onto Miz, DIY meet around the way to pat themselves on the back and applaud! The fans are torn, but DIY is in control as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Truth suplexes Ciampa for a GOURD BUSTER! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Ciampa and Truth crawl, hot tag to Miz! Miz rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT, then KICK after KICK! Miz fires off in the corner, then goes corner to corner to A-LIST LARIAT! Miz goes to the apron, Gargano runs up but Miz kicks low! APRON DDT! Miz then resets, RAMS into Ciampa, and springboards, into a JUMP KNEE! Cover, TWO! Miz survives but Ciampa keeps his focus. Ciampa drags Miz up, reels him in, but Miz drops under! Miz reaches out, but Ciampa drags him away from the corner! Miz BOOTS Ciampa away, hot tag to Truth!
Truth rallies on DIY! HE dodges Ciampa to shoulder tackle! And shoulder tackle again! Then the SPIN-OUT BOMB! The fans fire up for the Cena shoutout as Truth says “YOU CAN’T SEE ME!” But Gargano SUPERKICKS him! Ciampa says “SUCK IT!” Kick and underhooks, PEDIGREE!! Cover, TWO!! Truth survives and DIY can’t believe it! Ciampa BLASTS Miz, then Gargano DIVES to take Miz down! Ciampa gets Truth up, but Truth cradle counters! TWO!! Ciampa escapes, Truth kicks and runs, to SCISSOR- NO, Ciampa dodges! And ROLLING ELBOWS! Down goes the kneepad, Ciampa KNEES Truth down!
Tag to Gargano, and DIY have the corners! Truth sits up, for DIY to MEET IN THE MIDDLE!! Cover, MIZ DRAGS GARGANO OUT!! Ciampa is furious, then hurries out after Miz! But Miz DUMPS Ciampa into the front row! Miz puts Gargano in, Truth crawls over and tags Miz in! Miz swings, Gargano dodges and tilt-o-whirls! Miz stops that but Gargano victory rolls! TWO!! Miz catches Gargano this time, Truth joins in, THE TRUTH-CRUSHING FINALE!! Cover, Awesome Truth wins!!
Winners: The Awesome Truth, by pinfall (still WWE World Tag Team Champions)
Miz & Truth manage to hold off DIY in the first defense of these belts, but they also show respect. They shake hands and hug it out, except for Ciampa. Ciampa is understandably frustrated, but will DIY find a way to another shot? Will the Awesome Truth be there to meet them when they do?
The Judgment Day regroups backstage.
JD is upset about what Jey said. He knows that didn’t go as planned, but- Priest stops him there to say there was NO plan. Priest didn’t ask for JD’s help here. Not this week, and not last week. Which JD failed both times, by the way. But Priest got kicked in the face this time! JD apologizes, but then Dom walks in, arm in a sling! And he’s also brought Santos Escobar! Priest asks what is going on here. Dom says he was supposed to have the match alongside JD against Ricochet and Andrade tonight, but he’s a bit banged up. So instead, he asked Santos to return the favor from WrestleMania. Santos will team up with JD, the GMs approved it.
Is there a problem? Yes! But we don’t have a choice, huh? So Santos, do them all a favor and handle this. Santos says Priest has nothing to worry about. Dom apologizes but Priest stops him. Just go out there and handle business! And while they’re at it, just stay out of his. JD says yeah, they’ll handle Judgment Day business. JD wants a fist bump, but Priest refuses. JD and Dom fist bump then heads out with Santos. Is Judgment Day falling apart without Mami on top of things?
Shawn Michaels speaks.
HBK is proud to announce that NXT Battleground is coming to Las Vegas and the UFC Apex! Sunday, June 9th, NXT hits Sin City and this state of the art facility! The partnership under TKO is already making history, but who will reign in NXT for the Summer?
Imperium is here!
Der Ring General returns after his defeat at WrestleMania, flanked by Ludwig Kaiser & Giovanni Vinci, and they go right to the ring. Kaiser hands Gunther the mic, and Gunther takes a moment before speaking. “I know what you expect me to say up here. Talk about WrestleMania, take some shots at Sami Zayn, but I’m sorry to disappoint you. That’s not what I’m gonna do. See, I took some time away to digest everything that happened, and I wanna say this. For 666 days, I elevated the Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship to heights never seen before.” The fans do applaud that.
Gunther says in that process, he became the greatest champion in that title’s history. His name, Der Ring General Gunther, will forever be embedded in the Intercontinental Championship. However, that also means for almost two years, he was walking around here with a big target on his back, the pressure of living up to everyone’s expectations, and his own. That weight has now been lifted. So to Sami Zayn, Gunther wants to thank you. The fans applaud that, too. Gunther says now, he isn’t a target anymore. he is going from being the hunted to being the hunter. He can do whatever he wants.
This is a brand new era, and no matter which brand Gunther is drafted to, he will make sure his name will be embedded in this new era. So therefore, Gunther officially declares his participation in the King of the Ring Tournament! The fans love the sound of that! Gunther says after that, it is up to Gunther to decide which championship he takes next. Whether it is Sami Zayn and Gunther’s IC title, or any other title in the WWE. “But fair warning. As a champion in WWE, you will be targeted, you will be hunted by a challenger that is not only able of winning titles, but is also able to hold on longer to them than anybody else!”
“Already, The General of the Ring, SOON to be the King of the Ring, Der Ring General, GUNTHER!” The fans are fired up with Gunther, will he assume the throne- Wait! The New Day is here! Xavier Woods tells everyone to hold on and sound the alarm. Sound the alarm! Kofi Kingston says Gunther is correct, this is a new era. But what better way to usher in this new era than with ya bois the NEW~ DAY~! See, what you’re looking at is the reigning, defending, King, of the RING~! Woods & Kofi step into the ring, and Woods says Gunther is an USURPER to the throne. A PRETENDER! And he’s not the only one thinking about legacy.
Woods is going to cement his legacy when he becomes a TWO-TIME King of the Ring! Say it again! TWO~ time King of the Ring! Three times for emphasis! TWO~! Gunther says okay, we got it, Clown King. But let’s make it clear. After Gunther wins, he will reestablish the image of that tournament. Then Woods will be remembered as someone who won by accident and pretend to be champion. Oh, champion, huh? The thing Gunther used to be? He lost his gold to Sam Zayn! Where your gold at, Gunther? Kofi & Woods make it a song and the fans join in! Gunther says enough! This is beneath him. Vinci & Kaiser will take care of this.
NO NO NO! Woods & Kofi have faced them enough already. Woods and Gunther will handle their business during King of the Ring. But if his “bump boys” want a match here and now tonight in Columbus, Ohio~! That’s right, COLUMBUS, OHIO~! Then they will gladly beat those cheeks! BECAAAAAUSE~! NEW! DAY ROCKS! The fans fire up, but will Der Ring General’s soldiers finally finish this feud once and for all? Or will Woods & Kofi be building momentum back to the throne?
The New Day VS Imperium!
Raw returns as Kofi circles with Kaiser. They tie up, Kaiser headlocks and grinds the hold. Kofi powers up and headlocks back, but Kaiser powers up and out. Kofi ducks ‘n’ turns hip toss into MONKEY FLIP! Then he DROPKICKS Kaiser down! The fans rally, Kaiser staggers up and Kofi clinches. Kaiser pulls hair, puts Kofi in the corner, but lets off as the ref counts. Kaiser blocks Kofi’s kick and says “NEIN!” UPPERCUT, snapmare, cover, ONE! Kaiser stays between Kofi and Woods. Kaiser bumps Kofi off buckles, tags Vinci, and Imperium mugs Kofi. Vinci brings Kofi around to UPPERCUT!
Kofi goes to a corner, dodges Vinci, then CHOPS back! And CHOPS and CHOPS and then brings Vinci around. Tag to Woods, Kofi wrenches and Woods goes up, to AX HANDLE the arm! Woods wrenches, CLUBS the arm again and again, then tags Kofi. Whip into Kofi’s shoulder, then roll up to CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Kofi whips, Vinci BOOTS back and Kaiser tags in. Imperium POSTS Kofi, then they run to DOUBLE DROPKICK at the corner! Imperium soaks up the heat, Kaiser digs his boot in, but lets off as the ref counts. The fans rally for “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” Kofi throws body shots then JAWBREAKERS!
Kofi reaches but Kaiser keeps him from Woods! Kaiser reaches out to tag Vinci, but Kofi TOSSES Kaiser! Kofi ROCKS Vinci, but Kaiser returns, HIGH LOW!! Then they CLOBBER Woods! Cover, TWO! The fans boo but Gunther is still impressed as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Kaiser drags Kofi up by his hair. Kaiser clinches but Kofi fights free. Kofi fires body shots, haymakers, then forearms! Kofi reaches out but Kaiser keeps him from Woods! Kaiser whips, Kofi goes up and up and FLYING SHOULDER TACKLES! The fans fire up while both men are down! Kaiser and Kofi crawl, hot tags to Woods and Vinci! Woods rallies on Vinci with big LARIATS! Woods whips, LEG LARIATS, then whips again. Vinci reverses, but Woods tilt-o-whirls and brings Vinci in to suplex! Gunther is annoyed as Woods BLASTS Kaiser! Woods drop toeholds Vinci onto ropes, then runs to SLIDING ATTACK! Woods even hits Kaiser as part of it!
Woods hurries back up, step-in DDT! Cover, TWO! Vinci stays in this but Woods stays cool. Woods brings Vinci up to CHOP! Tag to Kofi, New Day double whips but Vinci KICKS Woods down! Kofi kicks, Vinci blocks for a short arm LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Kofi stays in this and Gunther grows further annoyed. Kaiser gets in, goes up, and Vinci hauls Kofi up. But Woods SHOVES Kaiser down, and bomb becomes RANA! Kofi then clotheslines Kaiser up and out! Woods aims, and he FLYING SHOULDER TACKLES Kaiser! Kofi BOOTS Vinci, tags Woods, and they get Vinci up! UP UP, DOWN DOWN! Cover, New Day wins!
Winners: The New Day, by pinfall
Der Ring General is rather beside himself. In fact, he CHUCKS his armchair away! Gunther is very disappointed in Kaiser & Vinci, but will he just have to take his frustrations out on whoever is in his way during the King of the Ring Tournament?
As for Kaiser & Vinci, Kaiser does his best to encourage Vinci and help him up to his feet. They leave together, having been left behind by Gunther. The Draft is coming, will these two be able to stick together like always? OH NO! Kaiser RAMS Vinci into the LED boards! The Impeccable German PENALTY KICKS the Pride of Italy! Kaiser SPITS on Vinci, drags him back up, and then POSTS him! Gunther’s disappointment in Kaiser leads to Kaiser’s anger towards Vinci as he CLUBS away on Vinci! Vinci hobbles up, Kaiser SMACKS him off the desk! Kaiser says, “How many years?!” Kaiser CHOPS Vinci down!
Kaiser gets Vinci up again, to RAM him into steel steps! Vinci tumbles up and over, clutches his knee, but Kaiser drags him onto the steps now! Kaiser snarls, but referees and producers hurry out here to stop him from doing anything worse! Kaiser leaves Vinci behind now, fans booing his mistreatment of a former friend. But then Kaiser jukes the producers, runs around the ring, and he DROPKICKS Vinci against the steps!! The fans lose their minds at Kaiser’s savagery! Cameras follow Kaiser to the back and he asks if Gunther saw that. Kaiser told Gunther he would get things done. Gunther smiles, has Imperium cut Vinci off like he’s dead weight?
Andrade El Idolo speaks.
“Be careful when you hear about a problem. You might be hearing it from the problem. I am many things, but the one thing I am not is someone’s fool.” As he sees it, he didn’t betray The Judgment Day and Legado Del Fantasma. “How can you pressure someone when from the beginning, they were never loyal? They didn’t want to do business with me. They didn’t want a business partner. They wanted a servant. Nobody tells me what to do. So now, they’re right. I am now their biggest problem.” El Idolo es Ingobernable, will he and the King of Flight be unstoppable against The Irish Ace and the Emperor of Lucha?
Drew McIntyre is here!
The Scottish Terminator makes his way to the ring, gets a mic, and hears the fans chant “C M PUNK! C M PUNK!” McIntyre sits down on the mat cross-legged, his own shot at the Second City Saint. “As usual, don’t shoot up my kilt, ya perv.” Then he asks the fans, “Why do you insist on chanting his name every single time I come out?” The fans chant for Punk again, but the amount of evidence we’ve had over the years, don’t they realize Punk actually hates the fans? The only person he hates more than the fans is himself! Did you ever love something so much that it doesn’t quite love you back as much? That is McIntyre’s relationship with pro-wrestling.
Say “What” if you French kiss your cousins. “WHAT?” “You’re sick.” The fans don’t get complex relationships, because most guys in here, the most complex relationship they’ve had is with their own right hands. McIntyre could sit here and complain all night, but he’s not gonna do that, even though at WrestleMania, he was attacked from behind but that coward, CM Punk! Priest who could’ve never beat McIntyre 1v1, used his briefcase like a coward! Then that next Monday, McIntyre didn’t get an automatic rematch like everyone else would. No, McIntyre was in a Fatal 4 Way, beat everyone’s asses, but Punk had to screw him over again, and Jey takes advantage, like a coward!
But McIntyre won’t complain. As usual, his back is against the wall but he’ll come out swinging and target his next prize, the King of the Ring! But next week, it doesn’t matter about the Draft, he- SHEAMUS IS HERE! The Celtic Warrior has Columbus all fired up, and he has a mic to tell Drew, “What’s going on, man? I don’t get it. You’re sitting in the ring here sulking. Complaining about how everybody’s a coward, yeah? How are you, by the way? But let’s be honest, man. All I see is the only person here who’s not gonna take responsibility for his own mistakes.” Sheamus steps in the ring and says that makes McIntyre the coward.
Sheamus wants to continue but he asks if McIntyre’s still gonna sit there or what. McIntyre stands, and Sheamus says good, because after all this time, he’s earned that respect. They’ve known each other 20 YEARS. And yet for the last four, all McIntyre’s gone on about is how he was robbed of his career-defining moment. Then at WrestleMania 40, he did it! McIntyre got his moment! He became World Heavyweight Champion, in front of a live crowd! His brother, John Galloway, was there! His wife, Caitlyn, was there! They kissed and hugged! And then McIntyre blew it! Over some stupid social media spat!
McIntyre should be here the World Heavyweight Champion. But over memes and T-shirts, McIntyre threw it all away. Is Sheamus to keep wearing black after that bleeding burial at Mania? Sheamus wants McIntyre to hear him out. They’re friends, traveled the world together, had epic booze ups together, and banger after banger after banger matches. So to tell McIntyre the hard truth, a one-armed CM Punk kicked McIntyre’s ass. McIntyre is incensed, especially with fans chanting for Punk again. McIntyre says he doesn’t care what the fans think they know, Sheamus knows what Punk did to McIntyre. How that affected McIntyre’s career. Sheamus knows better than anybody!
Yes, but this obsession is tearing McIntyre’s career down! He has to get it out of his head! McIntyre says fine, Sheamus wants to do this in front of the world, this is a conversation they’ve had backstage before. But go ahead, tell the world the truth now! Before Sheamus was hurt, it was banger after banger. But since Sheamus’ return, looks more like it’s been burger after burger. The fans boo and Sheamus laughs off the fat jokes. Sheamus will say, since he’s been gone, McIntyre is getting good at one-liners. And Sheamus deserves that. But the thing is, he could still lose the weight. McIntyre can’t lose his stupid.
So then stop blaming everyone else! But it IS everyone else! Burger after burger, the Ginger Pillsbury Dough Boy! Flubber Man! That’s not McIntyre’s words, that is what everyone was saying during Sheamus’ match! McIntyre was standing up for him! Sheamus says it doesn’t matter what anyone says! It doesn’t bother Sheamus! But it bothers McIntyre! They’re still friends! Whether Sheamus gets it or not, or if the fans get it or not, McIntyre tells the truth. And he’s Sheamus’ only real friend here! In the past, they’d throw hands, then throw back pints. McIntyre is past that, he only fights if it is worthwhile. So this here… isn’t.
But McIntyre will still be there for Sheamus. McIntyre will be ringside, at commentary, and he will watch Sheamus’ back. Shinsuke Nakamura makes his entrance, will the Celtic Warrior get a workout from the King of Strong Style?
Sheamus VS Shinsuke Nakamura!
Raw returns and the two circle. They tie up, Nakamura waistlocks then CLUBS away on Sheamus. Nakamura KICKS Sheamus, whips, but Sheamus reverses. Nakamura holds ropes, DUMPS Sheamus to the apron, but Sheamus body shots back! Sheamus then brings Nakamura around, but Nakamura slips free to throw elbows! Nakamura winds up but Sheamus SWATS the kick! Sheamus DECKS Nakamura, goes up, but Nakamura kicks Sheamus’ legs out! Nakamura CLUBS Sheamus on the top rope, then runs to TOP SHELF KNEE! McIntyre reminds Michael Cole & Pat McAfee that he can hear them both talking about him.
Nakamura digs his boots into Sheamus to give BAD VIBRATIONS! McIntyre does his best to put Sheamus over while Nakamura eggs Sheamus on with “C’MON!” Sheamus eggs Nakamura on in return! Nakamura stomps but Sheamus blocks! Sheamus ROCKS Nakamura, ROCKS him again and again, then swings. Nakamura dodges to fire a strike fest! Nakamura KICKS, KICKS and KICKS! Then AX KICK! Sheamus drops to his knees, Nakamura runs, but Sheamus CLOBBERS him! The fans fire up while Sheamus stares McIntyre down. McIntyre gives a thumbs up, and Sheamus stalks Nakamura to ropes.
Sheamus stands Nakamura up against ropes, and the fans fire up for BEATS OF THE BODHRAIN! Sheamus goes all the way to nine, then winds up for TEN! Nakamura sputters and Sheamus goes out after him. Sheamus brings the kneepad down, takes aim, KNEE CAP! Sheamus drags Nakamura back up, puts him in, but Nakamura bails out the side. Sheamus pursues, McIntyre says go ahead. Sheamus scoops Nakamura, but Nakamura slips free! ROUNDHOUSE! Sheamus wobbles, Nakamura SMACKS him off the desk! And again, and again! Nakamura goes up the barriers and aims, for a FLYING KNEE DROP!!
The Celtic Warrior is down, the King of Strong Style stands tall, and the Scottish Terminator shakes his head, all while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Sheamus fires body shots. Nakamura KICKS back, runs, but into an IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! And another IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! Sheamus climbs a corner, Nakamura stands, and Sheamus FLYING LARIATS! Cover, TWO! Sheamus drags Nakamura up, fireman’s carries, but Nakamura fights free! Sheamus blocks one kick but not the ENZIGIRI! Nakamura runs in at the corner, blocks boots and puts Sheamus in ropes! Nakamura KICKS, runs, and SLIDING GERMANS! Sheamus flounders, Nakamura goes up a corner, and FLYING KNEE ATTACKS! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally as Sheamus stays in this. Nakamura clamps on with a SLEEPER, then he drags Sheamus up. The fans rally, Sheamus fights, but Nakamura becomes a backpack! So Sheamus RAMS Nakamura into buckles! Sheamus fires elbow after elbow, lets off as the ref counts, and he fireman’s carries Nakamura up the corner! The fans fire up for the SUPER WHITE NOISE!! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura survives and Sheamus is beside himself! Sheamus goes back to the corner, the fans rally up, and McIntyre coaches Sheamus, only for Nakamura to KNEE him down! cover, TWO! Nakamura snarls but he takes aim from the corner.
Nakamura waits as Sheamus rises, “YAO~!” Nakamura runs in, but into a scoop and POWERSLAM! Sheamus fires up with the fans and he aims from the corner. The fans shout along as Sheamus beats his chest. Nakamura rises, but dodges the Brogue! Roll up, TWO! Sheamus ducks one kick, another kick, KNEE CAP! cover, TWO!! Nakamura survives but Sheamus hauls him back up. Sheamus reels Nakamura in, Canadian Rack, but Nakamura fights free! V-TRIGGER! Then BOOT! Sheamus wobbles, Nakamura aims, runs in, into a BROGUE!! Cover, Sheamus wins!
Winner: Sheamus, by pinfall
A banger to be sure, and the Celtic Warrior shows off the beef! McIntyre also applauds, but will he really be Sheamus’ friend through all of this?
Backstage interview with Sami Zayn.
Cathy Kelley is with the Intercontinental Champion and notes the recap of what happened in Montreal. Has Sami been able to process everything? Sami isn’t sure. He’s been angry, hurt, and there’s a lot he’d really like to say. But he is biting his tongue. He heard Chad Gable is going to address what he did last week, so Sami will be listening like everyone else. Sami just doesn’t see how Gable could defend his actions. But then in steps Bronson Reed. He says never mind Gable, Sami has bigger problems to deal with. Sami says if this title is what Bronson wants, then any time, any place. Bronson says okay.
The Colossal Aussie leaves, Cathy still wants Sami to expound on his feelings, but then Bronson returns to CLOBBER Sami!! And he throws Sami around against the road cases! Bronson says he already warned everyone that if he wants to take that title, he will! You’re looking at the NEW Intercontinental Champion! Refs and producers rush in, Bronson backs off, and Sami gets to his feet. Bronson CLOBBERS Sami again!! Another blindside attack for Sami, will there be anything left of him to even defend the title?
Chad Gable heads to the ring.
The Alpha Academy still follows their mentor out here, but they are perhaps as confused and concerned as anyone else. What will Gable say about him snapping on Sami? We’ll find out, after the break.
Raw returns as the Academy is in the ring. A new QR code flashes… Raw shares footage from the Pat McAfee Show as Charles Barkley says Gable can’t go whooping a man’s ass after a match, and certainly not in front of that man’s wife, kids and family. In the present, Gable has the mic but the fans boo. Gable says after what happened to Sami backstage, it is safe to say he’s had a rough couple of weeks. Now look, at least what Gable did to Sami was justified. It was…? Gable paints us a picture: capacity crowd in Montreal! Intercontinental Championship match, Gable VS hometown hero, Sami Zayn.
They tear the house down, and Sami walks out as champion. A great story, right? One Gable could accept, even if he didn’t want to. But not Sami, no. That wasn’t good enough. Sami saw Gable weeping in the corner, he placed the title right in front of him. Gable took that on the chin, got up and raised Sami’s hand in the ring to give Sami his moment. But even that wasn’t enough. What’d Sami do? Went up to his wife in the front row, brought that title to celebrate with her, when he knew Gable was standing there! That should’ve been Gable at Mania! That should’ve been Gable with his wife and daughter in the front row!
But Gable was wasting his time training Sami Zayn! And training a bunch of freakin’ losers! The fans boo as Gable insults the Academy! Gable asks if Tozawa has a problem with that. Go ahead, say something. Because Gable has a problem with Mr. Funny Man! All Tozawa does is come out here, do his little dance, and he gets loss after loss! It’s PATHETIC! The fans boo more but then Gable goes to Maxxine. “Sweet Miss Maxxine. Pretty as a princess, right? But dumb as a box of rocks.” What else does Gable have to do? He’s given everything and gotten nothing in return! It’s PATHETIC!! And that leaves Otis. “Don’t even get me started on you.”
Gable looks at Otis, the fans rallying behind him. Gable says his “prized pupil,” his “number one guy,” has proven himself beyond a shadow of a doubt… to be the biggest disappointment of them all. Guys, hold on, let’s back up a second. This is why they signed up, right? For feedback on how to get better. They can’t be upset with him. Just get on the same page and know that from now on, they focus… on Gable. They will all win Gable’s Intercontinental Championship together. They are going to help him no matter what. Right? The fans say “NO! NO! NO!” Gable wants them to say it, though. “No matter what.”
Otis, Maxxine and Tozawa look to each other. Gable doesn’t hear Otis. Say it. Gable holds the mic to Otis’ face, the fans chant “NO! NO! NO!” Otis says, “No matter what…” Gable says, “Good.” Master Gable has become a tyrant, but will he have the title no matter what he has to do?
Dominik finds Ricochet backstage.
Dirty Dom tells Ricochet that he’s lucky Dom isn’t cleared tonight, or else Dom would- Yeah, yeah, yeah, Ricochet gets it. Dom would should what happens when you mess with The Judgment Day. But Ricochet is with Dom. There is no one more upset that Dom isn’t cleared than Ricochet. Because Ricochet was looking forward to beating Dom specifically. But hey, he and Andrade will now settle for Dom’s boys, JD and Santos. By the way, if Dom sees Bobblehead JD before Ricochet, tell him that Ricochet will also see JD this Wednesday for WWE Speed, where Ricochet will further embarrass him. Because Ricochet ISÂ like that.
Ricochet leaves, Dom says keep walking. Dom turns around to see Liv Morgan. Liv looks at Dom’s arm in a sling, and they both know the issues here are far from settled. Will Liv win the Women’s World Championship tonight to make sure Mami comes back for her?
Nia Jax speaks.
“Tonight, we’re having an all-star battle royal for the Women’s World Championship. Fourteen women. That means there’s 13 females and one monster. And I’m that monster. I’m gonna terrorize each and everyone of them, and I’m gonna eliminate them one by one by one. Until I’m the last woman standing, and I become your Women’s World Champion.” Will the Irresistible Force be unstoppable on her way to the top?
Ricochet & Andrade El Idolo VS Santos Escobar & JD McDonagh w/ Dominik Mysterio!
Raw returns as Andrade makes his entrance to join Ricochet in the ring. The Judgment Day make their entrance, followed by the Emperor of Lucha. The teams sort out and Andrade starts against JD. The bell rings, JD takes a swing but Andrade dodges to fire back! Andrade clamps onto an arm, wrangles JD, but JD fights up to chinbar Andrade to ropes. The ref counts, JD takes a swing but Andrade dodges to CHOP! JD staggers, tags Santos, and the fans rally up as we get multi-generational luchadores meeting. They tie up, Andrade waistlocks but Santos elbows free. Santos whips, things speed up, and Andrade rolls off Santos’ back!
Andrade runs Santos over, the fans fire up, and he brings Santos up. Tag to Ricochet, Andrade whips Santos, they both hurdle to then DOUBLE ELBOW Santos down! Double BASEMENT DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Santos goes to a corner, Ricochet brings him up and UPPERCUTS! And DROPKICKS! And then snapmare for the running ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Ricochet clamps onto Santos with a chinlock, then wrenches to an armlock. Ricochet hooks Santos up to trap the arm and chinbar, then ghost pin, TWO! Ricochet drags Santos up, but Santos swings! Ricochet dodges, handsprings and RANAS!
Ricochet kips up, DROPKICKS Santos down, then covers again, TWO! The fans chant “DOM, YOU SUCK!” and Ricochet taunts JD. But Santos YANKS Ricochet onto ropes! Santos brings Ricochet up, JD tags himself in, and they mug Ricochet. JD stomps away, then brings Ricochet up. JD wrenches, whips, and ELBOWS Ricochet down! Cover, TWO! JD keeps cool and he brings Ricochet around. JD wrenches to hit a BIG back suplex! JD paces, the fans tell Dom, “SHAVE YOUR MUSTACHE!” Ricochet headlocks but JD powers up and out. Ricochet reverses but JD avoids the kick! Ricochet blocks a boot to UPPERCUT!
Santos distracts the ref, Dom trips Ricochet up! JD KNEES Ricochet outta the ring! JD then BLASTS Andrade, Santos FLYING RANAS Ricochet down! Santos and the boys soak up the heat while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Ricochet fires hands on Santos! Santos ENZIGIRIS Ricochet down! Santos brings Ricochet up, puts him in the corner, then runs up to DOUBLE KNEE! JD tags in, he reels Ricochet in to snap suplex! JD runs and tags Santos in, to drop a leg, brother! JD BLASTS Andrade, Santos SPLASHES down, TWO! The fans rally for Ricochet but Santos stays on him. Santos whips, runs in, but Ricochet ROCKS him! Ricochet fires elbows and hands, ENZIGIRIS JD down, then dodges Santos! Hot tag to Andrade! Andrade dodges Santos to CLOBBER JD, then DRAGON SCREW on Santos! Another DRAGON SCREW!
Andrade ducks ‘n’ dodges to CLOBBER Santos, and then he kips up! The fans fire up with El Idolo as he has Santos in a corner! “SI! SI! SI!” Andrade runs corner to corner, Santos is CIEN SHADOWS! Cover, TWO! Santos survives but Andrade keeps cool. Andrade drags Santos up, underhooks, but Santos RAMS him into buckles! Ricochet tags in, Andrade BOOTS Santos away! Ricochet springboards, FLYING LARIAT! The fans fire up with Ricochet, and he STANDING SHOOTING STARS! Cover, JD breaks it! But Andrade runs up! JD HEADBUTTS Andrade down, dodges Ricochet, but Ricochet blocks a kick to KNEE JD!
Santos runs in, Ricochet dodges, DOUBLE FLYING FOREARMS take both men down! The fans fire up and the ref checks. Ricochet and Santos stir, rise up, and the fans rally. Santos and Ricochet crawl, reach out, hot tags to JD and Andrade! Andrade fires off with JD, they go back and forth! The fans fire up as the forearms fly, then Andrade gets the edge! JD knees low, but Andrade snap suplexes first! Uno Amigo! The fans cheer as Andrade hits Dos Amigos! Santos gets in to save JD, they DOUBLE SUPLEX Andrade! They high-five but Ricochet springboards in, only for Santos to KNEE him outta the sky!
JD & Santos get a man each, and they go to corners. They put Andrade and Ricochet up top, then climb up. But Andrade & Ricochet fight back! Andrade HOTSHOTS JD, Santos SUPER STEINERS Ricochet, but Ricochet uses that to 450 LEG DROP onto JD!! Fans lose their minds, and Andrade boot feints to ELBOW Santos down! Andrade gets JD up, for THE MESSAGE! Cover, Andrade & Ricochet win!
Winners: Ricochet & Andrade El Idolo, by pinfall
Dom is disappointed, but then Priest gets in to POST Andrade! And SUPERKICKS Ricochet! The Punisher is pissed, and he gives Ricochet the RAZOR’S EDGE! Priest then gets Andrade up and around, to go SOUTH OF HEAVEN! El Campeon handled business for The Judgment Day, and tells Dom that in Spanish. JD asks what that means, and Priest tells JD that he doesn’t need them, they need him. Priest storms off, but is that true? Is Priest the only reason Judgment Day even has anything right now?
Zoey Stark speaks.
“Well, ladies and gentlemen, it has been one year since I have been drafted to Monday Night Raw. And what a year it has been! When I first got here, I was told to go in the corner and watch, learn, stay humble and be patient. No. See, instead, Trish Stratus? Hit her with a Z360, sent her packing. Becky Lynch, The Man? I beat her 1-2-3. Money in the Bank, I was inches from that briefcase. And at Survivor Series, one on one against Rhea Ripley, and I was this close to becoming Women’s World Champion. See, this last year has been a hell of a year. The scariest part of it all is that I’m just getting started.”
Backstage interview with Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell.
Jackie Redmond is with the Poison Pixie & #IndiWrestling just moments from our main event. In recent weeks, some would argue that they’ve used underhanded tactics to win. But tonight, it is every woman for herself. Then what is she implying? Indi doesn’t say it was underhanded, it’s just that the way Candice does things- Candice stops Indi, too, and says that they don’t need to defend their wins. And that is what they are: wins. But then something goes down nearby?! Nia and Liv want after each other! Tensions are running high just moments before the battle royal, and Becky walks by to say hey.
Becky knows Jackie does a bang-up job as an interviewer. The Man wears many hats, can she try Jackie’s on? Jackie says sure, and lets her have the mic. Becky is walkin’ and talkin’ as she says it is CHAOS~ back here! Pure chaos! And it’ll get even more chaotic out in the ring, because we are about to have the most important battle royal in the history of Raw. She passes by Ivy and Maxxine and stops to check in with them. Maxxine’s first time for a world title, right? Becky wants Maxxine to go out there and show everyone why it won’t be her last. Becky keeps going and says how we got here wasn’t ideal. But to Rhea Ripley, when you’re ready, Becky will be here waiting.
With that all said and done, The Man has come around to Columbus, Ohio, and she’s looking for a fight! Becky gets to gorilla, makes her entrance, and this main event is about to hit the Big Time! But will Becky win the belt here despite her losing out at WrestleMania?
Vacated WWE Women’s World Championship Battle Royal!
Mami’s misfortune is now a golden opportunity for the rest of Raw! Liv Morgan, Nia Jax, Natalya, Shayna Baszler, Zoey Stark, Chelsea Green, Piper Niven, Kayden Carter, Katana Chance, Indi Hartwell, Candice LeRae, Ivy Nile, Maxxine Dupri, and even The Man, Becky Lynch, all have an equal opportunity, but there can only be one! Who will replace Rhea Ripley as the NEW WWE Women’s World Champion?
Raw returns as Liv makes her entrance, with Natty, Candice, Indi, Zoey, Shayna, Maxxine, Ivy, Piper and Chelsea already waiting with Becky. Kayden & Katana make their entrance together as always, followed by Nia’s entrance. The belt is raised, the bell rings, and the fight is on! The field divides up to go after Nia and Piper, the biggest and the baddest in here! But they both explode free! The fans fire up as Piper and Nia storm up and start throwing hands! Nia gets the edge then HEADBUTTS! But then the others all get up. Becky fires off on Nia but Natty GERMAN SUPLEXES her! Natty puts Becky on the apron, but theN Nia scopos Natty!
Nia puts Natty on the apron, Becky gets up and around on Nia for a SLEEPER! Nia RAMS Becky into buckles, gets free, then runs in, only for Becky to POST her! Indi and Candice fight with Ivy and Maxxine given their beef over the past few weeks, and Natty puts Liv on the apron. Liv RAMS into Natty, Shayna has Becky but Becky turns that around into a BECKSPLODER! Chelsea and Piper work together, of course, going after KC Squared with Zoey Stark. Becky HOTSHOTS Shayna, Natty scoops Stark. Nia is after Shayna, Liv helps Candice with Ivy, but then goes after Candice! Ivy ROCKS Candice, but Candice kicks back!
Maxxine DUMPS Candice and ELIMINATES her! The fans fire up, “A THANK YEW~!” But then Indi DECKS Maxxine! Indi drags Maxxine up, whips, but Maxxine reverses to TOSS and ELIMINATE Indi!! The fans fire up again, “A THANK YEW~!” as Maxxine makes sure there’s no way Candice & Indi get their way! But that still leaves a dozen stars left as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and while Katana has Maxxine in a corner, Chelsea is helping Piper out of another, Kayden has Shayna in the third, and Nia CLOBBERS Liv and Ivy in the fourth! Natty and Becky are on ropes, Zoey runs in at Kayden but is sent into Shayna instead! Kayden then sits them both down, gets space, then waits on Katana. Katana SHOTGUNS Ivy down, then runs to Kayden, MONKEY FLIP CANNONBALL on Shayna & Zoey! Then MONKEY FLIP CANNONBALL onto Ivy & Maxxine! The fans fire up for the party girls, but Shayna dumps Kayden out! Then she dumps Katana, but Kayden helps Katana get back in and RANA!
The fans fire up, but Stark whips Katana! Katana reverses to put Stark on the apron! Stark fights off KC Squared but still gets a SUPERKICK! Shayna fireman’s carries Katana, tosses her out, but Kayden catches her! But Stark SUPERKICKS Kayden, she and Katana fall, DOUBLE ELIMINATION! Natty fires hands on Chelsea, Piper shoves Maxxine aside, and Nia hauls Ivy up! But Ivy clamps on a GUILLOTINE FACELOCK! Nia puts Ivy up top, throws body shots, then swings, but into a HANGING ARMBAR! Stark EXPLODERS Liv, Nia SWINGS Ivy into the post! Ivy lets go and falls to the floor, Nia ELIMINATES her!
Nia soaks up the heat, but then Maxxine glares at her. Maxxine won’t let Nia’s size intimidate her! So Nia SHOVES Maxxine down! Maxxine gets back up, dodges Nia to ROUNDHOUSE! And ROUNDHOUSE! And ENZIGIRI! Maxxine runs up, but Nia blocks the boot! Nia DUMPS and ELIMINATES Maxxine! The fans boo but Nia mocks the “A Thank Yew.” Nia then runs to SPLASH Natty in a corner! Shayna is there to KICK Nia! Piper SPLASHES Becky in a corner, SPLASHES her again, then runs up at the ropes! Becky BOOTS back! Liv CLUBS away on Stark while Becky ROCKS Piper! PIper runs up again but Becky DUMPS her to the apron!
Becky runs up as Piper holds on, FOREARM SMASH! Piper wobbles, Becky SHOTGUNSÂ her down and ELIMINATES her! Chelsea is upset her insurance policy is gone, but then Piper drags Becky out from under the bottom rope! Piper RAMS Becky into steel steps, gets space, and CANNONBALLS into her! Chelsea fights off Nia, but those fists don’t do much… Piper clears off the desk! Piper gets Becky up, Nia still dares Chelsea to fight her. Piper HEADBUTTS Becky, puts her on the desk, and CHOPS her! Chelsea LARIATS Nia, but Nia doesn’t budge! Nia fireman’s carries Chelsea, Piper hurries to go after Nia!
Nia TOSSES Chelsea away, goes under teh bottom rope and she ROCKS Piper! Nia clinches Piper, the refs and fans freak out, URENAGE onto Becky!! Piper and Becky are both on the desk, but then Nia drags Piper up! Fireman’s carry, SAMOAN DROPÂ onto Becky and the desk!! Chelsea is furious, but Natty DUMPS her out and ELIMINATES her!! But the refs don’t see it while checking on Becky, so it doesn’t count!? Natty is mad, she fires off on Chelsea in a corner! Natty whips, Chelsea reverses and POSTS Natty while Raw goes to break!
Raw returns once again, Becky is still down in the wreckage of the desk. In fact, it got wrecked over the break from Nia’s POWERBOMB! Stark & Shayna stomp away on Liv, Natty CLUBS away on Chelsea. Chelsea fights free, shoves Natty, but Natty RANAS! They both end up on the apron, then they start throwing hands! Natty ROCKS Chelsea, Chelsea ROCKS Natty, repeat! Chelsea BOOTS Natty into the post! Chelsea gets in safe, but Stark clotheslines Chelsea up and out to officially ELIMINATE her! Then Shayna BOOTS Natty down to ELIMINATE her, too! The teammates high-five, and they see Nia and Liv in the corners.
Shayna runs up to KNEE Nia, Stark HEEL KICKS Liv! They get Liv up, ALLEY-OOP KNEE!! But Nia CLOBBERS Stark! Shayna jumps on Nia for a SLEEPER! Stark SUPERKICKS Nia but that sends her and Shayna into buckles! Stark runs, but Nia scoops her! Nia puts Stark on the apron, DECKS her and ELIMINATES her! Then Nia runs in at Shayna! Shayna dodges, runs up, but Nia dumps her out! Stark saves Shayna, but Nia CLOBBERS Shayna onto Stark, to ELIMINATE her! The fans fire up as the final three are Nia, Liv and Becky, because yes, Becky rises like the phoenix to get back in the ring!
Nia is furious and she runs up, but Becky BOOTS her! Liv runs up, Becky ROCKS her! Becky fires off on Nia but Nia CLOBBERS her! Liv ducks ‘n’ dodges to tilt-o-whirl Nia onto ropes! Liv then runs up to SHOTGUN Nia in the back! The fans fire up as Liv runs in, but Nia dodges the back body block! Liv runs up again, but no Code Breaker! Becky adds on, CODE BREAKER NECKBREAKER COMBO!! The fans are thunderous while all three women are down! The fans rally for Becky as she rises, and she TOSSES Liv! Liv lands safe on the apron, and Nia gets Becky in a fireman’s carry! SAMOAN DROP!
Nia runs up on Liv but Liv gets in the ring first. Nia hits a SAMOAN DROP anyway! Nia soaks up the heat from the fans, then she drags Liv up. Becky ROCKS Nia first, though! Becky fires off forearms, UPPERCUTS, and a SOBAT! Becky TOSSES Liv, but Nia DUMPS Becky! Then she runs up, but they DOUBLE HOTSHOT her! Liv and Becky get in to fire off on Nia, then reel her in! The fans fire up but Nia is too big to double suplex! Nia DOUBLE SUPLEXES Becky and Liv!! Nia drags them both into a drop zone, and then goes up a corner! But Becky & Liv DUMP Nia to the apron! Becky fires hands, Nia ROCKS her!
Nia steps through but into Liv’s CODE BREAKER! Becky goes up, GUILLOTINE LEG DROP!! Nia flops to the floor, Becky & Liv ELIMINATE her!! The fans are thunderous as it comes down to two! Liv and Becky square off, and they fire off furious fists! The fans fire up, Liv TOSSES Becky! Becky holds on, KICKS and ROUNDHOUSES Liv in return! Becky goes up and leaps in, but Liv gets under! Then Liv runs up to whip! Becky reverses, TOSSESS Liv, but Livv ROCKS Becky back! Liv drags Becky out to the apron for a risky move! They brawl, Becky kicks low and reels Liv in! But Liv throws body shots! Becky still tries but Liv fights the suplex!
Liv drops to a knee, but Becky gets around to waistlock! Liv holds ropes to resist the suplex again! Liv throws elbow after elbow, then kicks and KICKS and CODE BREAKERS! Becky staggers, Liv runs up, but Becky blocks ObLivion! Becky shifts to clinches, APRON MANDHANDLE SLAM! Liv falls, BECKY WINS!
Winner: Becky Lynch, by pinfall (NEW WWE Women’s World Champion)
Columbus fires up as Becky wins lucky number seven! She couldn’t knock Rhea Ripley off the throne, but she did survive thirteen other stars to shine bright once more! She goes out into the crowd to celebrate with the fans, and she grabs a fan sign that says “Women Run the WWE!” Becky even finds a fan wearing a Monday Night Mami shirt to celebrate with her, because as Becky said, she’s waiting for Rhea’s return as eagerly as anyone. Will The Man be the champion when that day comes?
My Thoughts:
A great Raw as both the go-home to the WWE Draft, I just hope some of the stories they’ve set up aren’t going to get shafted because of the Draft. For one, great video package to hype up the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments, and really good promo from Gunther to stake his claim to the crown. Woods also wants to get back to that, feels like he and Gunther could have a great semifinal match. Really good tag match from New Day VS Imperium, good win for New Day, and it seems Vinci has once again been separated from Imperium. Maybe the Draft will move Vinci to whatever brand Gunther & Kaiser aren’t on, and Vinci will return to that Veni Vidi Vinci persona he had in NXT 2.0.
Really good stuff in the Judgment Day story, though the pacing of the promo between Jey and Priest was odd. It felt like they were actually trying to make room for the fans to “YEET!” during it. But I do appreciate that Priest showed some respect, and then immediately didn’t by talking down to Jey. I also appreciate that Priest wants to do things cleaner than Judgment Day usually does, with how JD’s attack was all his idea, not Priest’s. Now, Priest did beat the crap outta Ricochet & Andrade after they won the match, but that was him showing his dominance. Priest VS Jey is going to be great stuff, and there is a lot of intrigue on how it’ll affect Priest’s standing within Judgment Day.
Great tag title match from Awesome Truth and DIY, and of course Awesome Truth won. The fans love Truth and mostly like Miz, they only just got the new belts after only just winning the titles at Mania. And interesting detail that Ciampa didn’t want to shake hands, but it works that it was Ciampa. He was the one that turned Heel first back when DIY was in NXT, maybe Gargano will end up following suit if things don’t turn around for DIY. That with how Candice is basically Heel and Indi is one step away from turning Heel herself, maybe we get a Heel main roster version of The Way after The Draft.
Great promo from McIntyre and Sheamus to not only bring back their rivalry but to work-shoot the whole chubby Sheamus thing from over the last week. Great match from Sheamus VS Nakamura, but clearly we’re going to get Sheamus VS McIntyre again between now and Clash at the Castle: Glasgow in June. That is going to be awesome stuff, so hopefully the Draft keeps them both on the same brand. Great Heel move from Bronson to attack Sami, there’s your Backlash Intercontinental title match. And great Heel promo from Gable, and it seems the Alpha Academy are going to follow him for now. Surely Gable pushes things too far and it’ll be Otis who stands up to him, thus ending the Alpha Academy as a stable.
Great news from HBK here to learn where NXT is going for June. Now, the UFC Apex doesn’t look any different than the WWE Performance Center but hey, still cool that they have a guaranteed Las Vegas venue whenever they want it. And great promos from a handful of the ladies before tonight’s main event, and that was an awesome battle royal. For one, very clever to have a missed elimination because the refs were busy with Nia, Piper and Becky. Now, I will say I was a little surprised Becky won, or that she was even in the match given she lost at Mania, but at the same time, why wouldn’t they go with Becky? She’s incredibly popular, her book is a New York Times Best Seller, and she will definitely carry this title well for however long until Rhea’s 100%.
My Score: 8.7/10
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