Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (7/30/21)

Will Minneapolis be Too Sweet?

Published

3 years ago

July 30, 2021

Steven Mitchell

The Prince takes aim at the title he never lost!

Finn Balor challenged the Universal Champion and he accepted! But what about SmackDown’s Summer of Cena? Is it all for naught now?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Rey Mysterio w/ Dominik Mysterio VS Jimmy Uso w/ Jey Uso; Rey wins.
WWE 24/7 Championship: Reginald VS Chad Gable w/ Otis; Reggie wins by disqualification, and retains the title.
Six Man Tag: Big E, Cesaro & Shinsuke Nakamura w/ Rick Boogs VS The Dirty Dawgs & Apollo Crews w/ Commander Azeez; Big E, Cesaro & Nakamura win.
Sasha Banks & Bianca Belair VS Carmella & Zelina Vega; Banks & Belair win.

PLAY BY PLAY

JOHN CENA is in Minneapolis!

“I think they’re settling into a groove! This doesn’t sound as good as the Paul Heyman remix, but it’ll do.” Cena slides into the ring, fans cheer and he soaks it all in like he did last week. Cena says the recap package we get is “interesting.” But side note: if you have someone who makes missionary position entertaining for two decades, keep them in your life, it’ll be worth it. But with that out of the way, welcome to SmackDown! “And what the hell is going on here tonight?!” Roman Reigns and Finn Balor sign a contract for the WWE Universal Championship match at SummerSlam. Cena thinks that’s only half bad. Respect to Balor, but it also proves that Roman absolutely sucks.

Roman sucks because beyond the passive aggressive false confidence, Roman’s really just a scared little kid. Roman accepts Finn Balor’s challenge, and rejects Cena’s. Cena is fine with rejection, he’s been rejected in front of the world. You guys were there, you know it. But the reasons Roman rejected Cena’s challenge are ridiculous! Roman doesn’t like that Cena didn’t change his music, his look or who he was deep down. “That is so stupid. That is like asking Stone Cold Steve Austin to come back to the WWE as Sasquatch Steve Houston. Or if The Rock FINALLY came back to the WWE… he would come back as Dwayne Too Small Johnson.

“And instead of saying, ‘If you smelllelelelelel what The Rock is cooking!’ He would say like, ‘Do you consensually touch what the Small Johnson is barely holding?'” See? It’s ridiculous. That’s not who those guys are! The fans know it, the superstars know it. They do not beg you to acknowledge them. They allow you to make your noise, have some fun and show some life. They allow you to cheer, boo, get up out of your seats and be electric, and simply do their best each time to earn your respect. Roman expected Cena to change because that’s what Roman has to do. Cena says Roman has to change every two years because the fans stop caring about him.

The fans stop caring because they don’t believe in him. And the fans don’t believe in Roman because Roman doesn’t believe in himself, #BelieveThat. “Roman Reigns is nothing more than a lazy stooge named Joe, who coasts by on every gimmick in the system, and is nothing more than a bloodsucking product of this machine, who is so so afraid to fail.” Cena would’ve embarrassed Roman and Roman knows it! Roman didn’t reject Cena because of how he looks, but because of how Cena makes Roman look! Mic drop but Baron Corbin walks out? Corbin’s in worse shape than last week! Corbin just wants to talk.

Fans chant “YOU SUCK!” at the disheveled Corbin and Cena points it out. Cena doesn’t even know who this is, though. Oh wait! Baron Corbin? Dude, you look… Horrible, yes, he knows! Corbin’s in a bad way. Well Cena wasn’t going to say that, but yeah, he does look horrible. Things aren’t going well for Corbin. Corbin knows they’ve never been close, but Corbin is desperate. His life is falling apart! He’s lost his crown, his cars, his identity was stolen and his credit is trashed! And to top it off, Corbin sustained an injury to a very sensitive part of his body. Now, Corbin can’t even… Surf the internet? Eat breakfast cereals? Walk in the park? No, he can’t even “perform!”

Oh… So like the this and the that? Oh, okay. And because of that, his wife left and took the kids! So Corbin sees the charitable John Cena, the man that grants so many wishes, and so if anyone can help him, it’s Cena. Will Cena help Corbin? Well Cena figures to ask the fans. Should Cena help Corbin? He needs a definitive answer. The fans are tied between “YES! YES!” and “NO! NO!” Cena can’t tell, so he just gives Corbin what he has in his pocket. What? But Cena’s rich! He’s a Hollywood star! Corbin could even work for it! He could be in a movie with Cena! Like the Suicide Squad! Not a bad idea, but that movie wrapped. It comes out next Friday.

Okay, but Corbin is perfect! He has nothing to live for, there could be more. He could even be a Cena stunt double! Uh, that’s a bit of a reach. What? Cena is going to kick a man while he’s down? Fans like the sound of that! Corbin says Cena really is a selfish, self-absorbed tightwad, with an ego the size of California. “You Hollywood sellout.” Cena says this is a teachable moment. They can help Corbin. Cena will give Corbin something he needs: an Attitude Adjustment! Cena gets Corbin up and SLAMS him down with the AA! And he takes back his money. Will Corbin learn when to quit while he’s ahead?

Dominik and Rey Mysterio talk backstage.

Rey is getting in the ring with Jimmy Uso, so Dom is going to keep his eyes on Jey. Good call, son. Dom can keep one eye on Jey, and the other on his dad. Rey is proud of the competitor he has become, and Rey loves Dom, but man to man, Dom’s make rookie mistakes. Dom has to step the game up to get back the titles. Watch Rey, cuz he still has a trick or two. Dom knows he does. Dom heads out so Rey can finish preparations, but that match is coming up next!

Rey Mysterio w/ Dominik Mysterio VS Jimmy Uso w/ Jey Uso!

The NEW SmackDown Tag Team Champions got away with sneaky wins two times in a row, but will their luck run out as #NobodysBitch takes on the King of Lucha Libre 1v1?

SmackDown returns and the Mysterios make their entrance. The bell rings, Rey and Jimmy circle, tie up, and Jimmy headlocks. Rey powers out but Jimmy runs him over. Jimmy fires up but fans boo, and Rey resets with Jimmy. They tie up, Jimmy headlocks but Rey powers out. Things speed up, Jimmy dodges to mule kick and whip. Rey tilt-o-whirl headscissors Jimmy to a corner! Rey climbs, rains down fists, and gets nine before changing to a BULLDOG! Cover, TWO! Jimmy staggers up, Rey goes after him, but Jimmy fireman’s carries to RAM Rey into buckles! Cover, TWO! Jimmy wraps on a chinlock but fans rally up as Rey fights back.

Jimmy ROCKS Rey with an uppercut and Rey staggers to ropes. Jimmy runs in but Rey dumps him out! Rey dropkicks Jimmy’s legs out and Jimmy bumps off the apron! Fans fire up as Rey builds speed to SLIDE, but he has to roll through as Jimmy moves! Jimmy SUPERKICKS Rey right down! Jey talks trash at Dom as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Jimmy grinds Rey with a chinlock. Rey fights out, Jimmy shoves him but Rey kicks him back! Jimmy sunset flips, Rey rolls through to BUZZSAW! Jey shouts to Jimmy to get up and Jimmy gets to a corner. Dom gets the fans fired up as Rey runs in but Jimmy puts him on the apron. Rey ROCKS Jimmy, blocks a kick, but Jimmy DRAGON WHIPS! Jimmy gets to the corner, brings Rey up to the top rope, but Rey resists the superplex! Rey clubs and headbutts Jimmy down! Rey adjusts to jump and SEATED SENTON! Rey keeps moving, SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO!

Jimmy gets to the corner again, Rey runs in but hits buckles! Jimmy swing kicks Rey away then gets him back up. Fireman’s carry, but Rey fights free! Rey dropkicks Jimmy’s legs out to get him on the ropes! Rey dials it up as fans fire up, but Jey helps Jimmy bail out. So Rey just TORNILLO PLANCHAS! Dom likes that one as Rey puts Jimmy back in. Rana to put Jimmy one ropes, and Rey runs! Jey is there so Jey gets a 619! Rey keeps going, but Jimmy blocks the 619! Fireman’s carry, but Rey crucifix takedown! Dom keeps Rey up just like the Usos did!! Rey wins!!

Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall

Turnabout is fair play, and that’s how the Mysterios get back at the Usos! The Usos are of course upset about that, but will these two look to settle things with the tag titles on the line?

Bianca Belair is here!

The EST SmackDown Women’s Champion stands at 111 days as champion, but she’ll let us know about that and her plans for the near future, after the break.

SmackDown returns and Kayla Braxton is in the ring with Bianca to bring up Bianca successfully defending her title against Carmella last week. Bianca has surpassed 100 days as champion! But now we have to ask, how does she foresee the next 100? Bianca says she’s gonna blush, and the fans chant, “EST! EST!” for her. Bianca says these past few months have been so amazing. Defending the title at Rolling Loud, winning an ESPY, main-eventing WrestleMania 37, and now being back in front of the fans! It just keeps getting better and better. Bianca isn’t sure how she’ll top it, but she’s grateful for everything-

Carmella interrupts! “Oh my gosh, Bianca~! Congratulations on a hundred days!” Fans boo Mella’s sarcasm. But if Bianca really wants to cement her legacy, she should give one more title match to a woman who held the title for 130 days. That same person who is also the Most Beautiful Woman in the WWE! Mella of course means herself. Because Mella deserves it. We all saw Rolling Loud. The lighting was too bright, it was in Mella’s eyes, it- Wait, Zelina Vega makes her way out now? Vega tells Mella no, no, no. Slow your roll, chica. Mella is too pretty to be a third-time loser. And Bianca, what Vega wants to say to her, she’ll say to her face.

Vega gets in the ring, and says she thinks the WWE Universe wants to see Bianca to challenge a rising star like Vega. Because Vega is “The Moment,” and no one is more deserving than her. So accept her challenge, Bianca! Bianca says Vega is on! But then Mella blindsides Bianca! Vega joins in and they mug Bianca! They get Bianca up to KNEE her down, then they keep on stomping her! They hammer away, but here comes SASHA BANKS?! The Boss is back and she’s rushing out to help Bianca?! KNEE for Mella, FOREARM for Vega! METEORA for Mella, then Sasha blocks a kick to KNEE Vega! Sasha gets Bianca up and gives her a hug!

Bianca’s a bit confused but the #LegitEST hold it down in Minneapolis! Will The Boss make sure the EST gets fair treatment from the disrespectful challengers?

WWE 24/7 Championship: Reginald VS ???

The stylish and swift sommelier has been very elusive on Raw, but he gets to be the one who finally brings this title back to SmackDown! Kayla interviews him backstage and he wants to be called, “Reggie.” Well, Reggie, tonight’s opponent is a mystery. Is he comfortable defending his title like that? First of all, Reggie would’ve done anything to get to the WWE, whether that was helping Mella, Sasha, or Nia Jax. But suddenly, he saw the perfect opportunity right before him. And now here on SmackDown, Reggie is happy. And while he doesn’t know who his opponent is, he was simply told to show up and defend the title.

Reggie is just happy it is in the ring, because as 24/7 Champion, you have to be ready for anyone, anywhere at any time. Reggie is always looking over his shoulders, under his car, and under his bed. He has a rearview mirror on his shopping carts. Where Reggie’s from, his head was always on a swivel. Trouble usually comes his way from every direction, so it is only second nature. But whoever decides to challenge Reggie should expect the unexpected. The music hits and Reggie excuses himself. Will Reggie be able to keep those eyes on the back of his head open during this match?

The challenger makes their entrance now, and it’s… The Alpha Academy! Chad Gable is pumped up and Otis is menacingly stoic. But which one is stepping up to challenge Reggie? Otis gets a mic and says, “It’s not me. It’s him.” Gable is going to challenge Reggie, but Otis CLOBBERS Reggie all the same! The ref reprimands, Reggie gets up, the bell rings, and Gable throat chops Reggie! Gable fires off hands, whips Reggie to ropes, then CLOBBERS Reggie with forearms! Gable gets Reggie up for a NORTHERN LIGHTS! Bridging cover, TWO! Reggie staggers up, Gable shouts, “FOR THE ACADEMY!” and then he whips Reggie corner to corner.

Reggie goes up and over and shows off his agility as he dodges and evades! Mule kick, Reggie hops up, but Gable SLAMS Reggie down! Gable chicken wings for a TIGER PLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Gable gets frustrated and he gets Reggie up onto the top rope backwards. Gable climbs up but Reggie throws elbows to knock him away. Gable comes back to CLUB Reggie, climbs up again, and SUPER GERMAN SUPELXES! But Reggie lands on his feet?! Reggie baits Gable into a corner, Gable runs into buckles! SOMERSAULT SEATED SENTON! But Otis attack Reggie again!

Winner: Reginald, by disqualification (still WWE 24/7 Champion)

Otis throws Reggie out but Reggie rolls through to recover! The sommelier still has his title, and his health. But will Reggie be more careful showing up on SmackDown with The Dozer around?

Adam Pearce checks the contract.

Sonya Deville walks in and says all parties have been informed. Tonight’s main event will be a tag team match: Carmella & Vega VS Bianca & Sasha! That’s a perfect match. Sonya double checks the contract, too, and management heads out. It is time to sign on the dotted line, after the break!

SmackDown returns with Pearce & Deville in the ring.

Sonya starts by saying, “Ever since Roman Reigns rejected the Universal Championship challenge of John Cena, and immediately after accepted that of Finn Balor, this right here is the moment we’ve all been waiting for.” Pearce agrees, and we all know how contract signings tend to go. Emotions flair, people say things, and punches get thrown. But these two are here to make sure the contract is signed, sealed and delivered in the most efficient way possible. So first, they introduce the challenger, Finn Balor! Minneapolis fires up for The Prince as he makes his way to the ring! And of course, the Universal Champion, Roman Reigns!

Heyman of course accompanies Roman out on stage, holding onto the title belt until it is time for the pyro. Roman then goes to the ring, Heyman holding the belt up for him again. Balor patiently waits as Roman takes his time going up the steps and in between the ropes. Roman again holds up the belt for more pyro, and then hands it to Heyman. Roman is annoyed about the chair placement, so of course Heyman moves the chair to the head of the table. Pearce and Sonya move aside as Roman takes his seat. Balor takes his seat and Pearce knows they’ve both looked the contract. They can double check now, and if it looks good, sign on the proverbial dotted line.

Heyman and Roman look the contract over, fans chant “CENA! CENA!” as Heyman gives Roman the mic. “We’ve already seen Mr. Missionary tonight. As a matter of fact, Finn. Did you catch his opening promo? You know what he said, right? John said that by accepting your challenge, I’m ducking him. I’m ducking him?” So that means Cena thinks Balor is lesser than him. Roman would boo, too, it’s a jerk thing to say. But Roman doesn’t think this. He thinks Balor is worthy. Balor is worthy of challenging for the title. And Balor is also worthy to catch a beatdown at SummerSlam.

But just for the record, Balor isn’t anything like John. Balor doesn’t come out with the “same tired old schtick that’s not working anymore,” or reference other superstars and stuff. No, Balor is hungry, Balor wants it, and Roman digs that. So then, Roman has to say, if Balor signs the contract, Roman will smash Balor and send him right back to NXT. Roman hands the mic over to Heyman for Heyman to mic-drop. Heyman hands Roman a pen as fans chant, “ROMAN SUCKS! ROMAN SUCKS!” Roman ignores that to sign his part of the contract. Heyman tosses the pen and Balor gets a mic. “You think pretty highly of yourself, don’t ya, Roman? And perhaps, finely so.”

But it will be Balor’s privilege to return to NXT once again Universal Champion! Balor takes a pen, looks for his part of the contract, but BARON CORBIN attacks?! Obviously Corbin is angry from what Cena did to him, but he SMACKS Balor off the table! And he throws the contract out of the way to throw Balor out of the ring! Corbin fires off hands on Balor, TOSSES him into the timekeeper’s area, and then snatches the contract back up?! Fans freak out as Corbin finds himself a pen! But here comes Cena! Cena kicks Corbin and POSTS him! Cena looks at the contract, picks it up, and gets the pen! Heyman and Roman don’t even move as Cena writes HIS name on the paper!!

John Cena just snatched the opportunity away from Corbin, who was trying to snatch this away from Balor! Is this even allowed?! Will Roman use his authority to undo this, only to prove Cena right? Or does Roman have no choice but to acknowledge the Cenation?

Pearce and Deville walk backstage.

Well, it may not have been Balor’s name, but the contract has been filled out. Signed, sealed, delivered, just like they wanted. But then Heyman gets in their way. Now that out there was great television. Congrats! Pearce probably just moved up in the Board of Directors. But quick question, what are they going to do about SummerSlam? What does he mean? Oh c’mon. Let’s be real. Balor’s name is on the contract and JOHN- Er, uh… Well the point is, this isn’t legally binding. Pearce says this is what happens. He sees Roman’s signature, as does Heyman. He sees Cena’s signature. And that is good enough for Pearce! Sonya says this is official. Roman VS Cena is happening. But good to see you, Heyman.

Six Man Tag: Big E, Cesaro & Shinsuke Nakamura w/ Rick Boogs VS The Dirty Dawgs & Apollo Crews w/ Commander Azeez!

Mr. Money in the Bank, the Swiss Superman and the King of Strong Style had beef with the Show-Off, the Glorious One, and the WWE Intercontinental Champion last week, but now we get to see it sort out 3v3! Will Cesaro and Nakamura be able to #ThinkBig alongside Big E? Or will Ziggler, Roode and the Prince of Nigeria make them feel the steel?

The teams sort out, Big E and Apollo start, and Apollo rushes in, into a clinch! OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! Apollo tumbles out to the apron, Big E builds speed but Apollo KNEES Big E back. Apollo throws Big E out, taunts Cesaro & Nakamura, but that’s all to let the Dawgs hit a GLORIOUS ZIGZAG! Big E writhes as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Big E is down, but so are the Dawgs! Big E gets up, hot tag to Cesaro! Fans fire up as Cesaro runs in to EuroUpper Ziggler, then runs to BOOT Apollo! Ziggler staggers into Cesaro’s LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Cesaro hears the fans call for it, and he calls for it! Cesaro trips Ziggler to start up the SWING! Cesaro goes around and around for 10, then steps through to the SHARPSHOOTER! Ziggler endures, Roode drags him to ropes! Cesaro DECKS Roode, drags Ziggler over to tag Nakamura! FLYING KNEE GUT WRENCH SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Ziggler survives but Nakamura fires up from the corner! “YAO~!” But Ziggler gets around to ZIGZAG!

Both men are down, Boogs shouts to Nakamura but Ziggler hot tags Apollo! Apollo STANDING MOONSAULTS! Cover, Cesaro breaks it! Roode gets in to give Cesaro a SPINEBUSTER! Big E gets in to scoop Roode for a BIG ENDING! But Ziggler returns to hit a FAMOUSER! Nakamura kicks, Ziggler ducks, but the WHEEL KICK connects! Apollo ENZIGURIS Nakamura, and GERMAN SUPLEXES! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura survives but Apollo drags him to a drop zone. Apollo goes up but Boogs rocks out to distract! Azeez stops him by THROWING him down! Fans boo the killjoy but Cesaro EUROUPPERS Azeez to barriers! Ziggler SUPERKICKS Cesaro down!

Apollo leaps, Nakamura dodges the splash, Apollo rolls him! Nakamura slips through to KINSHASA!! Cover, Nakamura and team win!

Winners: Big E, Cesaro & Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall

Azeez is furious but Boogs gets back up to rock out again! Will this lead to #Kingsuke adding the Intercontinental Championship to his royal treasures?

EDGE is here!

Minneapolis fires up as the Rated R Superstar and his pyro are here! We all saw Edge and Seth Rollins have a confrontation last week, but will Edge call out The Architect to finish what they started?

SmackDown returns to show us footage from the break! Edge didn’t even have time to speak, Rollins jumps him at the ramp! And stomps him down at ringside! Rollins gets Edge up to RAM him into barriers, then he seethes as the fans boo. But the assault continued and Rollins got Edge back to the stage. Rollins BOOTS Edge down, looks around with wild eyes, then grabs a camera from the cameraman! Rollins aims at Edge, to CAMERA SHOT Edge down!! Referees rush out to keep Rollins back and the fans chant, “YOU SUCK! YOU SUCK!”

Back to present, Rollins tells everyone to shut up and listen! “All Edge has done is take and take and take and take from me! And I’m sick of it!” But the fans don’t’ believe him? Well, what goes around comes around! That’s why it is a revolution! Rollins is a revolutionary! Roll the footage! The recap package goes back to a month ago, when Rollins felt slighted by management. There was no promise made to Rollins, but Rollins felt he was still deserving over Edge. And so when Roman VS Edge happened at Money in the Bank, Rollins found an opening to screw over Edge! Back in the present again, Rollins says he is not ashamed but PROUD of what he did.

But that was the right thing to do. Rollins is the rightful heir to the Universal Championship. And if HE can’t be champion, then neither can Edge! Rollins laughs and throws the mic down, but will the Rated R Superstar simply rise up and get his revenge?

Sasha Banks & Bianca Belair VS Carmella & Zelina Vega!

The Boss is back and she stood by the champ against the Untouchable Mella and La Muneca, but now they’ll do it again in a tag match! Will the #LegitEST duo show up and show out in tonight’s main event?

The teams sort out, and Bianca starts against Mella. Bianca dropkicks Mella, kips up and RAMS Mella into the corner. Tag to Sasha, they double whip and double shoulder Mella down! Sasha covers, TWO, but Sasha gets Mella up to scoop. Mella slips off and throws Sasha by her hair! Cover, ONE! Mella bumps Sasha off buckles, throws back elbows over and over then hits another one. Mella mocks Bianca’s clapping but Sasha throws body shots. Mella CLUBS Sasha, tags Vega, and they double suplex. Bianca saves Sasha and they double dropkick Mella and Vega out! Sasha builds speed to WRECK both with a dropkick!

Bianca goes outside, Sasha becomes her weapon in the military press CROSSBODY! Direct hit and down go both Mella and Vega! Fans fire up with Sasha & Bianca as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns Vega CLUBS and KICKS Bianca down. Fans boo but Mella applauds, and Vega runs to tilt-o-whirl into an IRON OCTOPUS! Bianca stays up, fans rally for “EST!” but Vega throws Bianca down. Vega bumps Bianca off buckles, tags Mella, and Mella stomps a mudhole in. Mella digs her boots in, lets off to taunt Sasha, but runs into a LARAIT from Bianca! Vega tags in, she CLUBS Bianca down before she could get to Sasha! Vega clubs Bianca, runs, and tilt-o-whirls to get the Iron Octopus back on! Bianca flails as she fights to stay up, fans rally up again and Bianca powers up! Bianca spins Vega around for a BACKBREAKER!

Both women are down, Mella tells fans to shut up with the chanting, but Bianca crawls to hot tag Sasha! The Boss hits a METEORA on Vega, DECKS Mella, then dropkicks Vega! Sasha gets Vega back up to snap suplex! Una amiga! Another, dos amigas! Sasha gets Vega up a third time for THREE AMIGAS! Fans fire up as Sasha goes to a corner. Sasha climbs up top, to FROG SPLASH! Cover, Mella FABULOUS KICKS Sasha! Mella drags Vega to their corner, tags in, and goes after Sasha. Sasha gets around but Mella drops to avoid the backstabber! Mella KICKS Sasha from below, runs, tilt-o-whirl to the FACEBUSTER! Cover, Bianca breaks it!

Bianca sees Vega running in and BOOTS her to then toss her! Bianca goes out after Vega but Mella has Sasha. Sasha slips out of the facebuster to hit the BACKSTABBER! BANK STATEMENT CROSSFACE! Mella taps, Sasha and Bianca win!

Winners: Bianca Belair & Sasha Banks, by submission

What a way to return for The Boss! She and Bianca celebrate, and then Sasha hits Bianca with a BACKSTABBER!! Sasha rains down fists from all sides because it was only a matter of time! Boss Time that is! Sasha gets the belt and shoves it in Bianca’s face before firing off forearms! Sasha goes up the corner, reels Bianca in, and TORNADO DDT’S! Then the BANK STATEMENT!! Bianca flails but there’s no way to stop this! Sasha makes Bianca tap and then suffer as she shouts, “I’M the Legit Boss!!” The ref tells Sasha to let off and Sasha does, so she can hold the belt up again. But then she puts Bianca BACK in the BANK STATEMENT!!

Bianca keeps tapping, Sasha says, “I’M the reason you’re here!” Sasha laughs as she makes Bianca fade out!! Will Sasha ruthlessly rip the title away from Bianca Belair the first chance she gets?

My Thoughts:

This was a good episode of SmackDown, but there was so much that just felt off. For one, there was barely a preview earlier today, so I feel like they were just slapping stuff together real quick. There were a lot of recap packages, too, though they were at least used to feed segments. But I really am glad to see the 24/7 Championship return to SmackDown and Fox, and I like that the Alpha Academy are the first to challenge him here. It works that Gable was first to challenge because now it’ll be Otis’ turn next time. And no offense to Reggie, but Otis as 24/7 Champion would be great, because he’s so menacing and strong. He wouldn’t need to run away, he could just bulldoze everyone coming after him.

Cena opening SmackDown was alright but I don’t know why they’re throwing him into the Corbin stuff when Corbin and Kevin were the thing just last week. Of course Corbin steps in it and Cena piles on with the Attitude Adjustment, but I don’t get the contract signing hijacking. I guess Sami is just out since he already lost to Balor, and then Cena uses this moment to sneak in and take this title match. There is time for Balor to come back and demand he still get his part, but how is Cena the Face in this? Roman and Cena should both be seen as the Heels and then Balor is our edgy Face who comes out on top against both these guys.

I like that Rey won against Jimmy with the same assist that the Usos were using to win before. It makes a lot of sense, and it definitely foreshadows the tag title rematch at SummerSlam. I also like that we got the Six Man Tag that the Cleveland live crowd got to see last week, but I feel like even then, commercial breaks cut out a lot of great content. The Faces winning makes sense, though, and it keeps things going towards a big Intercontinental Championship match to be sure. But then I feel like there was miscommunication in timing of everything, because we did not get to see Rollins attacking Edge live, as we should have.

Sasha’s return was apparently rumored, or perhaps leaked, but once it was true, it was pretty clear she was turning on Bianca. I almost thought she was going to do that after saving Bianca from Mella & Vega, but then we wouldn’t have gotten that pretty good main event. Sasha of course gets the win for her return, and given the move’s name is “The Backstabber,” of course she turns here tonight. They probably could’ve waited a week since Bianca and Vega want to have a match of their own, but I suppose WWE figures they should have Sasha just get her betrayal out of the way so they can build to SummerSlam being a rematch from WrestleMania 37.

My Score: 8.2/10

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

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Coverage

Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 4.25.2024

We just got done with Rebellion, and Under Siege is two weeks away! Gotta see how these dots connect!

Published

19 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Andrew Balaz

Rebellion had quite a few returns, Mike Santana, Sami Callihan and Broken Matt Hardy. All three of these guys could easily be main event players, and its nice to mix up and expand what felt like a rather small pool of potential challengers.

Under Siege is only like 2 weeks out, so we’ll see how the dots connect in such a short period of time.

.@AJFrancis410, Rich Swann, and rap legend @BunBTrillOG are IN THE HOUSE Meanwhile, @joehendry announces he will deliver an apology to Fir$t Cla$$ NEXT WEEK on #TNAiMPACT! pic.twitter.com/4GNe2xWfyU

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Ratings:

Mike Santana vs Myron Reed w/Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz: Santana wins via Spin the Block – ** 1/2
#1 Contender: Frankie Kazarian vs Josh Alexander: Josh wins via Grapevine Ankle Lock – ***
ASH by Elegance vs Xia Brookside: Xia wins via School Girl Roll-Up – ** 3/4
Sami Callihan vs The Good Hands: Sami Callihan wins via Cactus Driver ’97 – SQUASH
Eddie Edwards w/Alisha Edwards & Brian Myers vs Nic Nemeth: Eddie wins via Boston Knee Party – *** 1/4

Results:

Did @NicTNemeth say BROKEN? @MATTHARDYBRAND has arrived in the iMPACT Zone! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/HbkUangt6e

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

A weird opening that is just framed to put Nemeth and Hardy together against The System. Feels a little awkward, but who knows how it will play out.

.@JordynneGrace vs @miyu_tjp NEXT WEEK on #TNAiMPACT will now be for the Knockouts World Championship! pic.twitter.com/YnKZjb9yjx

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Mike Santana vs Myron Reed w/Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz

Ahh I didn’t really pay attention to Santana’s theme at Rebellion, but its pretty damn cool. Good stuff.

Rascalz blindside Santana early, but the heel advantage doesn’t last more than a few moves. Santana whips Myron from corner to corner, hits a few Hip Attacks before Myron finally dodges one and starts using his unique offense and agility to his advantage. Matrix dodge, into an Leaping Outside Back in Slingshot Codebreaker. Some more offense and Santana powders to the ramp, Myron jumps over the rope and tries a Flying Cutter, but Santana blocks it, turns things around, gets pushed forward and hits the Rolling Cutter. Santana takes out the Rascalz, heads back into the ring, Myron tries to catch him unawares but eats the Spin the Block off the rope run! Santana wins fairly quickly.

Maclin’s music hits, he tries to employ the help of The Rascalz to attack Santana, but as soon as Maclin positions himself to get in, The Rascalz bail and flip off Maclin. Maclin makes it out of the confrontation relatively unscathed, but at least we know where he’s going for Under Siege probably.

OH FUCK ME WITH RUSTY KNIVES. Because Cardona is hurt Kon is paired with SDL, and she just challenges Jordynne and PCO to a tag match. WHY!? STOP IT. This is hot garbage.

Josh Alexander comes out…I wonder who’s Super Finisher he’s gonna conveniently kick out this time? Brian Myers? Frankie Kazarian? Rich Swann? Because yes, I’m still annoyed that Hammerstone has been in TNA for half a sandwich, he already connects with a Super version of his finish on tacks, and that’s not a finish. Oh Kaz’s music hits. Okay, so time for Josh to kick out of Fade to Black or Flux Capacitor. Kaz talks smack, says he won his match too so he should have a say in who’s number one contender. Josh challenges him, Kaz says not right now, but a referee runs out and says the match is official.

#1 Contender: Frankie Kazarian vs Josh Alexander

Kaz throws his jacket on Josh’s head, and attacks him with some strikes before Josh fights back and throws Kaz out. Commercial break, we see Kaz misses his Apron Guillotine, Josh goes for the Low Crossbody but Kaz dodges and Josh goes flying. Kaz starts throwing some chops and claws at the cauliflowered ears of Josh. Russian Leg Sweep from Kaz for a near fall. Josh swings wildly and Kaz ducks the strike and levels Josh with a Lariat.

Josh blocks a Vertical Suplex attempt, but Frankie pulls off a Fisherman’s Suplex after a few overhead strikes for a near fall. Josh stands up and connects with a straight right, rocks Kaz, Back Body Drop, into a Charging Forearm, Rolling Senton, 2 count! C4 Spike attempt countered into a Back Stabber and then Chicken Wing, but Josh fights it off, rolls through and into an Ankle Lock, Kaz kicks off and into a Head and Arm Cradle for a near fall and then the Guillotine Leg Drop into Slingshot DDT spot from Kaz for another 2 count!

Fade to Black, but its fought off, Big Boot but then Kaz counters the next move with a Power Slam into the Springboard Guillotine Leg Drop, but Josh grabs the Ankle Lock! Locomotion German Suplex time from Josh, Halfhatch Suplex after the Germans, floats over for a 2 count! C4 Spike attempt again, but Kaz fights it off, dumps him over the top rope, slingshots him in and into the Cutter for a near fall for Kaz! After the 2 Kaz grabs a chair and chain, the referee stops the chair of course, so he tries the chain, EY runs down and grabs the chain so Kaz pulls the Eddie Guerrero and the referee admonishes EY, but doesn’t DQ Josh. So as Kaz is busy laughing at EY, Josh picks the ankle, Ankle Lock with the Grapevine, Kaz taps.

Tensions are sky-high between @alexhammerstone and @JakeSomething_! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/LLCUJOCy7H

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

ASH by Elegance vs Xia Brookside

Both are jawing at each other and then throw hands before Xia gets the upper hand with a Headscissors from the Top Turnbuckle, Charging Knees, a Flurry of Kicks, but when the ref forces some space in the corner, ASH is finally able to dodge and work over Xia with her Twisting Body Splash, a few choking moves, a corner Stomp into a Snap Suplex for 2. ASH is in charge elegantly, but the referee keeps forcing space on both of them when they go for corner attacks. Xia manages to take advantage a little, but ASH regains control, kicks Xia up the ramp and then lands her Cartwheel Back Elbow up the ramp. It actually looks pretty cool executed like that.

Headlocks and Hair Pulling to keep Xia down and using energy to kick out. ASH is getting frustrated but Xia is remaining persistent. ASH goes back to the Headlock, but Xia fights up, Jawbreaker, Back Elbow, Kick to the gut and Drop Toe Hold sends ASH face first into the middle buckle. Xia rips off 4 Double Knee Smashes to the back of ASH’s head into her Flying Crossbody for a close 2! Xia pulls her up, but ASH spins out, then Xia slips it, but ASH kicks her in the chest and deposits her to the outside and demands a count from the referee. Iceman puts Jeweled Knuckles/Rings on ASH’s hand, the referee catches her, removes the stuff from her fingers and Xia hits the School Girl Roll-Up for the flash win.

Fraud has thrown the Ballot Box Battle into chaos, but also paved the way for an explosive showdown between @TheTreyMiguel and @The_Ace_Austin NEXT WEEK to determine the #1 Contender for the X Division Championship! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/lYHrtgNrc3

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Sami Callihan vs The Good Hands

So the Good Hand Jobs are about to do their job to Sami. I’m just gonna assume Sami beats the hell out of both and wins with a Cactus Driver ’97. If anything interesting happens I might actually cover it, but come on now.

.@SteveMaclin has a proposition for @FrankieKazarian #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/XY6lMdmSWo

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) April 26, 2024

Kaz makes a Metallica reference with the “Wash Your Back So You Won’t Stab Mine”…and Sweet Amber is the only good song on St. Anger. So…I ain’t mad.

Eddie Edwards w/Alisha Edwards & Brian Myers vs Nic Nemeth

A little early ground wrestling and headlocks for control from both men. Nothing super flashy to start until we get to the rope run and Nemeth goes for the Flying Body Press to drop Eddie. Before Nemeth can follow up, Lish grabs his foot. Nic does have his brother Ryan in the crowd, trying to get chants going and do the old school ‘power up the babyface’ thing, but Eddie has been in control since Lish got involved. Simple offense, chokes, strikes, Snap Suplexes, Knee Drops, simple yet effective. But then Eddie ducks his head too early, Nemeth kicks him in the face, bounces his head off the buckles a few times, Dropkick sends Eddie reeling to the corner, Nemeth starts the 10 Count Punches but Myers hits the apron to distract and Eddie manages to slip the situation and push Nemeth to the floor.

Commercial break happens, Nemeth is trying to fight back with Chops, but a Kitchen Sink from Eddie puts Nemeth on the floor again! Clubbing blow from Eddie, but Eddie then misses the Hip Attack in the corner and Nemeth counters with the Rude Awakening into the 10 Count Rain of Elbows. Fame Ass-er miss, Eddie tries something but Nemeth turns it into that hesitation DDT for 2! Tuning up the band starts to build and Eddie powders to avoid it. Nemeth throws Eddie back in, goes to the top, but Eddie crotches him, rises up and hits the Superplex into Tiger Driver for 2! Eddie starts mocking with Tuning Up the band but Nemeth hits his own Superkick into an Olympic Slam for 2!

Both men just trade strikes Fighting Spirit style, Eddie says “Always Trust the System” and Nemeth shuts him up with a Headbutt. Danger Zone is blocked, Boston Knee Party gets ducked, they level each other with Lariats! Myers and Ryan Nemeth start fighting to distract the referee, Moose hits the ring and hits Nemeth with the belt. Eddie lands Boston Knee Party and The System wins again!

Overall Score: 6/10

A lame opening segment, a squash match, ASH by Elegance getting her first loss, and a weird way of just pulling the number one contender out of mid air makes for an awkward show. Also Kon still be involved in, literally anything, is negative. However, I can say there was a ton of stuff thrown at the wall this episode, so there’s a chance that some things landed better with other people than myself. The ballot segments were amusing, they overused the “I need to talk to you Santino” gimmick a bit much and personally I feel like having Jake versus Hammerstone is booking yourself into a weird corner.

But hey, the main event was fun, Nemeth getting laid out to the point that there could be a story reason to take him out of the Under Siege match. Kaz with the Metallica reference was pop worthy and I guess its a lot of ‘let’s see where it goes’ kind of angle creation. So it wasn’t complete trash, but its definitely a wait and see episode.

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (4/25/24)

Champions need challengers!

Published

23 hours ago

April 25, 2024

Steven Mitchell

The Queen is coming for her crown!

Athena & Billie Starkz are the top champions in the ROH Women’s Division, but Queen Aminata’s coming after them! Who will she target first?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Isiah Kassidy VS Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes; Zay wins.
Six Man Tag: Top Flight VS The Dark Order; Top Flight wins.
Anna Jay VS Allysin Kay; Anna wins.
Johnny TV w/ Taya Valkyrie VS Will Austin; Johnny wins.
Six Man Tag: The Mogul Embassy VS MANDERS & BEEFTANK; The Embassy wins.
Yuka Sakazaki VS Leila Grey; Yuka wins.
ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Ground Match: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Outrunners; The Kingdom wins and denies The Outrunners a title match.
Taya Valkyrie w/ Johnny TV VS Laynie Luck; Taya wins.
Six Man Tag: Lance Archer & The Righteous VS Jon Cruz, GPA & Ren Jones; Archer & The Righteous win.
Abadon VS Nova; Abadon wins.
Triple Threat: Blake Christian VS AR Fox VS The Beast Mortos; Mortos wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Isiah Kassidy VS Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes!

Brother Zay and the Commander of the Skies are coming down from the high of competing against Rob Van Dam on April 20th, but they’re both ready to get back up. Will Kassidy earn his shot (shot shot) at a championship? Or will the AAA Cruiserweight Champion be aiming for ROH gold?

The Code of Honor is upheld, but Zay has his fingers crossed! Zay trips Komander at the bell, says he’s too smart, then he steps on Komander’s dropdown to say “SHOTS! SHOTS! SHOTS!” and “SUCK IT!” Komander keeps cool, he and Zay tie up, and Komander headlocks. Zay pulls on the mask, powers up and out to hurdle, but then Komander steps on him! Komander mocks “SHOTS! SHOTS!” Zay runs up, Komander avoids the boot to then wrench, wrench and mule kick a leg! Kmoander steps over, rolls through, then rolls again, to a HALF CRAB! Zay endures, fights around, ROPEBREAK! Komander lets go and Zay stands back up.

The fans rally, Komander runs in but is put on the apron. Zay runs in but into a slingshot BOOT! Zay comes back but Komander goes up and headscissors Zay into buckles. Komander comes back to springboard, wheelbarrow, but Zay HOTSHOTS Komander and then throws him down! The fans boo but Zay says they don’t teach that at school. Just follow Zay and he’ll get your right. Zay then smothers Komander with his towel! The ref reprimands, Zay lets off and Komander sputters to a corner. Zay bumps Komander off buckles, CHOPS him, then stomps Komander down. Zay says “SHOTS! SHOTS!” as he gives stomp after stomp.

The ref counts, Zay lets off at 4 and dusts his shoes off. Zay goes back to scuff Komander, taunt him, but the fans rally up for Komander. Zay scuffs Komander more, eggs him on, but Komander fights up to fire hands! Zay ducks a roundhouse but not the HEEL KICK! Zay leans on ropes, Komander runs in but Zay puts him on the apron. Komander gets up but Zay triangle jump STUNNERS! Komander flops to the floor, Zay scowls and goes out after him. The fans rally, Zay backs Abrahantes off, and the fans boo. Zay goes back for Komander, SMACKS him off barriers, then grabs the chair.

The fans boo, Zay says watch this, it’s about to be an 8K. Zay runs and uses the chair to LAUNCH, into barriers! Komander avoids disaster, puts Zay in the ring, and he hurries to a corner. The fans fire up as Komander springboards, but Zay moves! Komander rolls through, ducks ‘n’ dodges then RANAS! The fans fire up while Zay bails out. Komander builds speed and WRECKS Zay with a dropkick! Then ASAI MOONSAULT and down goes Zay! The fans fire up, Komander drags Zay up and in, then he springboards again, for a SWANTON BOMB! Cover, TWO! Zay stays in this as fans chant “DOS! DOS! DOS!”

Zay goes to the apron, Komander storms up and stands him up. Zay shoves Komander away, goes up the corner, but Komander runs up! Zay anticipates and GAMANGIRIS! Zay goes up to SUPSER SUSNET FLIP, but Komander flips through!! The fans fire up and Zay is shocked! Zay still BOOTS Komander, fires forearms, but Komander bobs ‘n’ weaves to SLAP, UPPERCUT and power up! Zay turns Komander around but gets a SHOTEI! Komander then jumps up top POISON-RANA! The fans fire up again and Komander runs, but into a SPANISH FLY! Cover, TWO! Or as the fans remind us, “DOS! DOS! DOS!”

Zay says Komander’s done wasting his time. Zay whips, Komander reverses but Zay reverses back to scoop, only for Komander to tilt-o-whirl sunset flip! TWO, but Komander tries a side roll sunset, TWO! Zay escapes, Komander dodges his haymaker and waistlocks. Zay switches, Komander switches back, but Zay grabs the ref! LOW BLOW MULE KICK!! The fans boo as Zay gets away with that one! Abrahantes protests but the ref can’t call what he didn’t see! Zay blows a kiss, before the INVERTED TWIST OF FATE! Cover, Zay wins!

Winner: Isiah Kassidy, by pinfall

Brother Zay didn’t break rules but he did find a loophole to DELETE Komander’s momentum. Will Zay soon have a WONDERFUL ascension to the top of ROH?

ROH hears from Bullet Club Gold.

It was backstage at AEW Dynasty this past Sunday that the Bang Bang Gang unified the AEW and ROH World Trios Championships! Jay White says, “Today, our destiny, fulfilling our destiny by building our Dynasty! Y’see, I’m full! I’m full of that feeling when I get to say, I told you so! When I came to AEW, joined forces with The Gunns, I said the Gunns were money! Brought them in along with Juice Robinson, to Bullet Club GOLD. I said I would bring you gold, and boys, we’re running out of space. Because we’ve got gold a plenty, haven’t we, boys? Cuz I’m the mother effin’ Catalyst of Professional Wrestling! I told you so!”

Austin says their backpacks are heavier on the ride home, but that extra weight just reminds him that the Bang Bang Gang runs this Trios ish! Colten says they like to have fun before and after, but during? They don’t take no ish! There’s this saying around here, “Restore the Feeling.” That’s something for the young guys to get on TV, but guess who are never mentioned? The Gunns! Is it because they’ve been in too many main events? Is it because they’ve been tag team world champions? And now they’re AEW & ROH Trios Champions! The Gunns are the best damn team in the world! White is the best singles man in the world!

And tonight, they are the BEST trio in the world!! And if you’re not down with that, they’ve got two words for ya: GUNS UP!! The Bang Bang Gang is firing on all cylinders, but will they be able to shoot down those who take aim at them?

Six Man Tag: Top Flight VS The Dark Order!

Speaking of the trios championships, Action Andretti, and the brothers Martin get their shot at the Bang Bang Gang this Saturday! Will Top Flight pick up speed going into that Collision? Or will Evil Uno, John Silver & Alex Reynolds prove they are worthy contenders?

The Code of Honor is upheld, the trios sort out, and Darius Martin starts against Johnny Hungy. The bell rings, the fans rally and the two circle. The fans rally for “JOHNNY HUNGY!” as the two tie up. Darius wrenches, wristlocks, but Silver spins and fireman’s carries for the takeover. Silver has the cording hold but Darius fights up. Silver wrenches but Darius spins, slips around, waistlocks, spins Silver and cravats for the neck wrench. Silver endures, powers up and out, but Darius rolls over the dropdown. Darius sweeps a leg to cover, ONE! Darius turns Silver’s sweep into a cradle, TWO!

Silver gets up but Darius arm-drags him back down. The fans cheer, Darius wrenches Silver and tags Action. Action runs to LEAP FROG ATTACK the arm! Action wrenches Silver, tags Dante, and Dante goes up to AX HANDLE the arm! Dante clamps onto the arm, digs a knuckle into Silver’s ribs, or was it a tickle attack? Tag to Darius and Dante snapmares Silver. Darius runs to basement dropkick! Cover, ONE!! Silver stays in this but Darius stays on him. Tag to Dante, Top Flight reel Silver in but the rest of Dark Order save him from the double suplex! So Action jumps in and Top Flight TRIPLE SUPERKICKS!

The fans fire up while Uno and Reynolds spill back out. Action and Darius aim, DOUBLE PLANCHA but Uno and Reynolds DECK them outta the air! Dante brings Silver up but Silver fights the half nelson to then whip Dante into the ropes! Silver then runs up, Uno & Reynolds join in, TRIPLE DROPKICK! Silver then waistlocks to GERMAN SUPLEX Dante into a bridging cover, TWO! Silver tags Reynolds and he short arm LARIATS Dante! Cover, TWO! Reynolds brings Dante up, bumps him off buckles, then tags Uno. Uno CHOPS Dante, then snapmares him to stomp him down! The fans rally for Uno as he tautns Action.

Uno goes back for Dante but Dante throws body shots. Uno CLUBS Dante, bumps him off buckles, and tags Reynolds. Silver holds Dante in whiel Reynolds whips Uno for the SPLASH! Uno goes again, but Dante dodges, goes up and over Reynolds, hot tag to Action! The Sight to See rallies on the Dark Order! ELBOW for Uno! BOOT for Silver! ELBOW for Reynolds! Uno kicks low, whips, but Action handsprings to DOUBLE BACK ELBOW! The fans fire up as Action kips up, and he runs in at Reynolds in a corner. UPPERCUT! Uno runs in but the SPLASH is sent into Reynolds! Uno staggers away, Action DECKS Reynolds!

Action aims, slingshot and SPLIT LEG but he has to bail out as Reynolds moves! Action just uses that to roll and PELE Uno! SPANISH FLY on Reynolds! Cover, Silver breaks it! Darius tosses Silver out but Silver ROCKS Darius! Darius drops down but Dante runs in and uses Darius as a step, POETRY IN MOTION! Silver falls, Reynolds dodges Darius to RAM Dante! Dante comes back, Darius helps him get up and over, then Dante helps in the TORNADO DDT! Darius sets Reynolds up for the STANDING SHOOTING STAR! Cover, Uno shoves Dante onto it! Uno then CHOPS Darius down and goes to his corner.

Reynolds crawls over, hot tag to Uno! Uno fires forearms on all of Top Flight! Uno winds up, but Dante JUMP KNEES! Darius mule kicks! Action KICKS, Darius BUZZSAWS! But then Silver & Reynolds drag the Martins out! Uno dodges Action, tells him to STOP, then ROCKS him! The rest of Dark Order get in, Reynolds spins Action before the TRIPLE ROLLING ELBOWS!! Action wobbles, Uno reels him in, and Silver gives Reynolds the BOOST to take out the Martins! PILEDRIVER for Action! Cover, TWO!! Action survives and shocks the Dark Order! Uno cools off, tags Silver in, and Silver tags Reynolds.

The Dark Order surrounds Action and the fans rally up. They stand Action up, hoist him up, and Silver builds speed, but the Martins trip Silver! Darius drags Silver out, Action gets away and Dante baits Uno. Uno runs in, Dante goes up and over to JUMP KNEE Reynolds! GAMANGIRI for Uno, then Action SUPERKICKS! Dante DIVES to take out Silver, Darius steps in to COMPLETE SHOT Uno! Action and Darius have Reynolds for the double pump handle, DOUBLE LIGHTNING SPIRAL! Cover, Top Flight wins!

Winners: Top Flight, by pinfall

Action, Dante & Darius are flying high and heading for Collision, will they take those unified World Trios Championships away from the Bang Bang Gang in the blink of an eye?

Backstage interview with Athena & Billie Starkz.

Lexy Nair is with the ROH Women’s World and Women’s Television Champions, and says “Ladies and gentlemen, we are calling an Emergency MEM, a Minion Empowerment Meeting.” The Fallen Goddess asks the Minions why they’re here, and Minion #400,237.75 knows why. This is because of Red Velvet and Queen Aminata. They decided to stick their noses in Athena’s moment. The main event of Battle of the Belts, live on TNT, the first time the Overlord has been on live TV in over a YEAR. And Aminata put her hands on Athena, put Athena on her head, and proved that she is nothing more than “a hot piece of porcelain hussy garbage.”

Billie says not to forget about Red Velvet. Velvet acted all high ‘n’ mighty, but she just forgot Billie hasn’t beat her yet. Lexy says then it seems there is some unfinished business. The champs bring Lexy in for an uncomfortable double side hug, and Athena says “Bestie” is right. There is unfinished business. And since MIT is a nonprofit, they’ll give a “scholarship to the biggest ass-whooping Queen Aminata and Red Velvet have ever seen. Got it?” Athena tells Queenie and “Blue Velvet” to either step up or step out. Challenge issued to the Queen and the Chef, but are the Overlord and her sidekick about to get cooked?

Mark Sterling speaks.

“Some people get into professional wrestling because they need to. You haven’t needed anything in your entire life. You have an unlimited amount of resources at your fingertips. Money, culture, knowledge. You wanted to excel at this business, so you got the best training, the best workouts, the best diets, the best gear, the best moves. If it’s not the best, it’s simply not you. But the wisest man doesn’t think he’s the best until he’s surrounded by the best. And now, we all are. You are Ariya Daivari. And you are a Premier Athlete. We are the Premier Athletes.”

The Premier Athletes are here in person.

Sterling talks to his stable and tells them the beginning of phase two was a success. They wanted to assert dominance over ROH, and he would say message sent. However, they were not aware that the message would be sent to ROH World Champion, Mark Briscoe, to Dalton Castle, and half of the ROH men’s locker room. It took SIX men to stand face to face to these three. They’ve got Ariya back and more pissed off than ever. They’ve got National Champion, Josh Woods. And they’ve got Tony Nese in peak, physical performance. Now, they all know The Infantry wasn’t personal. They were just in the line of fire.

The Infantry is just on a long list of people who do not deserve the opportunities. Opportunities that belong to these three physical specimens! Because these are The Premier Athletes. When and where will Sterling’s stable finally break through to that next level?

Backstage interview with Griff Garrison & Cole Karter.

Lexy is now with Maria Kanellis’ baby boys and says they haven’t had the best luck as of late. What’s next? Karter isn’t sure. They keep getting opportunities, but they keep failing. Karter recently had a match against Christopher Daniels, and he lost! Griff says Karter thinks that’s bad, but Griff lost his shot at the ROH World Championship. Griff has faced Mark Briscoe twice in his career, and he’s 0-2. Karter’s match wasn’t even for a title! Griff had so much more on the line! Maria then walks in and sees her boys are disappointed. Well, Mama is disappointed, too. They both could’ve done much better in their matches.

But every loss is an opportunity. Griff was in the ring with THIRTEEN TIME ROH World Tag Team Champion, Mark Briscoe! Karter was up against Christopher Daniels, a legend! Maria’s been in the ring with both of those men, and they have so much experience. That is what Griff & Karter gain every time they’re out there. Every single loss is an opportunity. And everyone around here is always jealous of the abs and the looks, and it’s great that they are. But eventually, they’ll be jealous of what these two do in the ring. And eventually, these two will get back her championships, the ROH World Tag Team Championships.

Maria leads the way, but does anyone wanna tell her that that would mean her baby boys going up against her husband, Mike Bennett?

ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Ground Match: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Outrunners!

Speaking of Mike Bennett, he and Matt Taven are still champions after the big assist from Wardlow at Supercard of Honor. But will the Kingdom need their War Machine again real soon? Or will they be able to handle Turbo Floyd & Truth Magnum in 10 minutes or less?

The fans rally up for the Outrunners already while the Code of Honor is upheld Mega Powers style. The teams then sort out, and though Taven is confused, Bennett steps up and starts against Truth. The fans chant “TAVEN SUCKS!” but Taven just eggs the Melvins on. Truth and Bennett tie up, then Truth wrenches to wristlock. Tag to Turbo, he takes the handoff, and he nods as he wrenches and wristlocks. Bennett knees low, flexes on Turbo, then wrenches to an ELBOW BREAKER! Bennett wristlocks, says this is old school wrestling, but Turbo powers up! The fans fire up as Turbo rolls, handsprings, and kips up! Turbo then BOPS Bennett on the head!

The fans cheer, Turbo tags Truth, and Truth wrenches to wristlock. Truth grinds the arm, whips, but Bennett reverses. Taven trips Truth up while Bennett’s all up in the ref’s face! The fans boo and Turbo protests but Bennett dropkicks Truth down! Bennett mocks the old school posing then takes a bow. Tag to Taven, he CHOPS Truth in the corner. Taven CHOPS again, digs his boot in, but the ref counts. Taven lets off to taunt Turbo, and Bennett gets a cheap shot on Truth! Bennett drags Truth up by his hair, the ref sees that and reprimands, but Taven ROCKS Truth. Taven whips, but Turbo trips Truth to actually save him from the crossbody!

Taven tumbles up and out of the ring, Truth gets up to tag Turbo! Truth then runs and Turbo holds ropes up, BASEBALL SLIDE DROPKICK! Bennett runs up, is sent out, and The Kingdom regroups. The fans fire up for Turbo as he fires up, then PLANCHAS! Down goes The Kingdom and Turbo is all revved up! Turbo gets in the ring, shakes the ropes, then tags in Truth. The Outrunners coordinate, to spin and pose! The fans fire up but The Kingdom CLOBBER The Outrunners from behind! The fans boo but Bennett flexes. Bennett brings Truth up, CHOPS, and now fans chant “BENNETT SUCKS!”

Bennett CHOPS Truth, puts him in the corner, and tags Taven. Bennett feeds Truth to a BOOT, adds the BOSTON BAYONET, then Taven LARIATS! Cover, TWO! Truth is tougher than that, but Taven argues with the ref. The ref defends his count, so Taven brings Truth over to ropes. Taven CHOKES Truth but the fans boo. The ref counts, Taven lets off at 4, and Taven soaks up the heat. Truth sputters but Taven tags Bennett. The Kingdom mugs Truth, then Bennett keeps Truth from Turbo with a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Truth stays in this but Bennett stays on him with a chinlock and stretch. The fans rally as Truth endures.

Truth is red in the face but he fights to his feet. But Taven BLASTS Turbo! Bennett throws Truth by his hair! Turbo storms in but the ref has to stop him. Turbo is upset but Bennett stands on Truth’s face! Bennett clamps onto Truth with a chinlock and grinds him down with a knee in the back. The fans fire up, we pass five minutes as Truth fights up, but Taven runs at Turbo again! Turbo ROCKS Taven first this time! Truth then hits a BIG back suplex on Bennett! The fans fire up, Turbo is feeling it, and Truth crawls over! Truth staggers ot his feet, hot tag to Turbo! Turbo rallies on The Kingdom with big haymakers!

The fans fire up as Turbo scoops and SLAMS Taven! Then he scoops and SLAMS Bennett! Scoop and SLAM for Taven! Scoop and SLAM for Bennett! The fans fire up and Turbo drops an elbow! And another elbow! And then he winds up, flexes, and JUPM ELBOW DROPS! Taven runs up but Turbo kicks! Turbo reels Taven in, flexes again, and hits a BIG suplex! Turbo points to Truth, Truth tags in, and Truth goes up! FLYING FOREARM on Bennett! The Outrunners hurry to get Bennett up, but Taven ENZIGIRIS Truth to stop Boot Camp, er Vice City, or whatever they were calling it! Bennett shoves Turbo into Truth then rolls Truth up, with tights! The Kingdom wins!

Winners: The Undisputed Kingdom, by pinfall (denies The Outrunners a title opportunity)

Taven grabs the belts to celebrate and Bennett says that was too easy. But then the ref suspects shenanigans! Did Bennett pull tights? Bennett defends his innocence, as does Taven, and the ref drops the issue. Will The Kingdom do anything and everything they have to in order to stay champions?

Red Velvet & Queen Aminata speak.

The Chef and The Queen are backstage, and Velvet tells Athena, “There you go again. Stirring up the pot. Oh my gosh, we ruined your moment~! I’m done with you. Billie? You wanna hang with the big girls? You wanna get in big girl business? Then bring it on. Yes, I haven’t forgotten I beat you, twice. And I’ll do it again, and this time, I’m a beat you like your mama never did. You know why? Cuz I don’t roll with minions. I roll with royalty.” Aninata says that’s right. And Athena, oh, they feel so sorry for “ruining” the moment. Actually, Aminata would do it again and again and again. And wanna know why? Because Queen Aminata does not respect Athena as a champion!

Athena has ZERO honor! And no one knows better about honor than The Queen. And Velvet says, “Y’know what, Queen? I’m looking for a fight. Are you looking for a fight?” Aminata is definitely ready for a fight. Velvet says it is time to cook, eat, leave no crumbs, and take out the trash! This dynamic duo is ready to tear down the Forever Champion and her little buddy, will they take the gold right off Athena & Billie?

Backstage interview with The Infantry.

Lexy is now with Trish Adora, Carlie Bravo & Captain Shawn Dean, and we’ve seen them get on a roll. How are they continuing the momentum? Carlie is so glad she asked. Have no fear, you know The Infantry is here. Dean says yes, they are here. And there’s been nothing but targets on their backs. They said they’re the most popular team, and people have been after them. Carlie does realize now that they had those OG Ops, then those really big Ops, and last week, there’s Ops they didn’t even know about. But let’s not forget those really old Ops, the- Oh wait, The Outrunners walk in. Turbo & Truth are feeling good. They may not have targets on their backs, but they’ve got some guns!

Wait, wait, wait. Are they wearing brightly colored camo?! Okay, first they take the Infantry’s move, now they’re copying the swag? What’s next? Trying to take Adora and their homes? What the what, son? Dean has Carlie calm down. He’s always got great ideas. He does? Yes, because next week, Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, Florida, they take this to where it all began! Finally, Infantry take The Outrunners to where they belong, and that’s Boot Camp! Hold on, The Outrunners have been using camo since The Cow Palace. Dean has to hold Carlie back on that one! Turbo has a better idea! Outrunners VS Infantry, Daily’s Place, where it all began!!

WHAT!? Didn’t they just- Fine, CHALLENGE ACCEPTED! Oh yeah? The Outrunners will do Infantry one better and THEY will accept! Let’s roll out! Copy that! WHAT!? Stop copying them, Outrunners!! But will Dean & Carlie finally get through the delusional duo and make them find their own schtick?

Backstage interview with Johnny TV & Taya Valkyrie.

Lexy is with Mr. & Mrs. TV Ready and notes the season finale of Johnny Loves Taya just dropped. How are they feeling? Amazing~! Everyone loves their show, they worked so hard on it for months. Ten episodes, the grand finale, it couldn’t have gone any better. And think about it: awards season! The acceptance speeches, the red carpets, the fashion moments. But in sneaks Aaron Solo. That sounds fun! Though they would’ve won more awards if they had this face on the show. Maybe next season? Johnny says maybe Aaron would’ve been on the show, if he supported it once. He didn’t tweet about it once! All their real friends did.

Uh, Aaron is the Retweet King! Especially those first three episodes. Aaron and Johnny argue but Taya has them calm down. Taya runs the socials for the show, and she can confirm, Aaron did retweet. Oh, well, thanks, bro. Yeah, man! Remember QTV? The handshake? They do the handshake, right down the rocket ship taking off. Aaron says see? They’re bros. Before Johnny Loved Taya, Johnny Loved Solo. Uh… No. Aaron is a loser! TV Ready people do not hang with losers. Remember how his name used to be S O L O W? They took the W away cuz he keeps getting L’s! He’s 0 and THIS CENTURY! Get a win already!

Aaron says fine, if that’s what they want, he will win. And he’ll prove to both of you that Aaron is TV Ready! Aaron heads out, and Taya says it’ scute that he’s so confident. Not that it’ll work out. And they got the last word. Aaron then says “Bye” from offscreen, so Johnny says, “Adios.” Aaron has bet on himself, but will he win out?

Triple Threat: Blake Christian VS AR Fox VS The Beast Mortos!

All Heart, The Whole Fox’n Show and the evolved Black Taurus are among the fastest, toughest and hungriest competitors around, and they’re all looking for that golden opportunity. Will Blake be rolling into NJPW’s Best of the Super Juniors tournament? Or will another big name prove they’re a big deal?

The Code of Honor is upheld between Fox and Blake, but not Mortos. The bell rings, Mortos stares down Fox and Blake. Fox runs in to RAM Mortos but bounces off! Blake RAMS Mortos but also bounces off! They both run up, but he runs them over! Fox & Blake both kip up, but Mortos choke grips them both. Mortos shoves Blake away, but Fox flips through the choke slam! Blake & Fox DOUBLE SUPERKICK Mortos down! Mortos bails out, Blake and Fox coordinate, and Fox runs. But then Blake sweeps the legs! Fox ends up on ropes, Blake runs to BASEMENT 619! The fans boo but All Heart also has some brains.

Blake aims from the apron, springboards in and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Fox flounders to a corner, Blake runs in, but Fox puts him on the apron. Blake RAMS into Fox, slingshots, but Fox goes out to then slingshot SENTONS! The fans fire up, Fox suplexes for ANARCHY! Blake bails, Mortos LARIATS Fox down! The fans fire up as Mortos roars, and Mortos drags Fox up. Mortos suplexes, Fox slips free to waistlock but Mortos switches. Mortos shoves, follows, then rolls off Fox’s back! Mortos SOBATS, KNEES, ELBOWS and snapmares, to then NECK TWIST! Then SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO!

Fox survives that onslaught but Mortos roars again. Mortos drags Fox up, wrenches and grabs a leg, for a SHIN BREAKER! Fox writhes, Mortos gets legs and steps through, and Mortos ties Fox up for a NAVARRO DEATH ROLL! Fox endures the leg lock, but Blake DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS Mortos! The fans fire up and Blake smirks as he runs in at Mortos. Mortos BOOTS Blake, SLING-DOGS, then CRUCIFIX DRIVERS! Blake wobbles, Mortos whips to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Blake survives but Mortos snarls. Mortos drags Blake up, UPPERCUTS him down, and Blake flounders to a corner.

The fans cheer as Mortos drags Blake back up. Mortos reels Blake in to back suplex, but Blake lands out! Blake dodges in the corner, then whips to ropes. Mortos reverses but Blake handsprings, wheelbarrows, SPLASH 182! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Mortos and Blake stir while Fox returns. The fans rally, Fox and Mortos stand first and Fox throws a haymaker! Blake adds a haymaker, he and Fox pinball Mortos around! They put him in a corner, throw more hands, then Fox goes up to rain down fists! Mortos shoves Fox away so Blake rains down fists. Mortos shoves him away, Fox returns to A-LIST LARIAT!

Mortos slumps down, Blake adds a LOW CROSSBODY! Fox skins the cat to DROPKICK Mortos, and then Fox goes to the apron. The fans fire up as Fox goes up, but Blake ROCKS him first! Blake goes up, brings Fox up, but Mortos adds on! The fans are going nuts already for the SPANISH FLY BOMB!! Cover on Blake, TWO! Cover on Fox, TWO!! Mortos snarls but he drags Fox back up. Mortos trophy lifts Fox, but Fox slips free to BOOT! Mortos tumbles out to the apron, and Blake SPEARS him down! Blake hurries to build speed so he can DIVE! Mortos stays up!? So Fox FLIES! Down goes Mortos and the fans fire up!

Fox puts Mortos in but Blake aims first! Springboard 450 SPLASH! Fox adds the SWANTON BOMB! But then Blake TOSSES Fox to cover Mortos, only for Fox to break it! Fox has had it with Blake being so sneaky, and TOSSES him out! Blake is on the apron, he ROCKS Fox, but Fox stops the slingshot! Fox has Blake in ropes, step-up DRAPING DDT! Roll through, but Mortos reels Fox in! Scoop and MORTOS DRIVER!! Cover, Mortos wins!

Winner: The Beast Mortos, by pinfall

Blake and Fox couldn’t say on the same page, and that allowed the minotaur of lucha to take the win! Will nothing stop The Beast Mortos from stampeding his way to a championship opportunity?

My Thoughts:

A good episode of ROH here at an hour and 38 minutes, but that made for quite a bit of filler. I did like the Six Meaty Men Slapping Meat Tag match of Mogul Embassy VS 1 Called Manders, BEEF and Calvin Tankman, but of course The Embassy won. Good return matches for Johnny and Taya, but I liked their promo with Aaron Solo better. It was a good use of continuity bringing up the failed QTV to pivot into a new story for Johnny TV now that Dalton Castle is moving on. Good promos from Mark Sterling, but a bit redundant again to have him hype up Ariya Daivari, then for him to talk directly to Ariya and the others.

Another confusing thing was the promo from The Infantry and Outrunners. Well, the promo wasn’t confusing, the timing was. Perhaps it was a victim of poor pacing as we’ve seen all over AEW & ROH. But I do appreciate we’re finally seeing these two teams have it out for ROH at Daily’s Place “next week,” aka prerecorded sometime this week. Outrunners had a good match with The Kingdom but of course The Kingdom won. But we’re getting an interesting detail where Maria wants her new boys, Griff & Karter, to go for those ROH World Tag Team Championships while her old boys, Bennett & Taven, still have them. Some sort of Kingdom Civil War angle in the works here?

Really good stuff with Zay winning by going to new lows, and really good Six Man Tag to give Top Flight momentum going into their title match with Bang Bang Gang. Really good promo from Bang Bang Gang and of course White & The Gunns are going to retain. And at least they did just what I was hoping by having a promo from Bullet Club Gold on ROH so that it counts as them being on this show. Just needs to keep happening, maybe with some in-person appearances. Not even matches, just BCG watching other trios fighting it out because they’re scouting, aka foreshadowing, new opponents.

Great main event Triple Threat but also a fast one, Mortos with the big win over Fox and Blake. While there’s something brewing for the ROH World Championship with Mark Briscoe being around Dalton Castle and The Premier Athletes, maybe Mortos can find himself in the world title scene for the next ROH PPV. And then great promos from Athena & Billie as well as Velvet & Aminata. We’re definitely getting a tag team match that will end up earning Velvet a shot at the Women’s TV title and Aminata a shot at the Women’s World title, and those will be awesome matches.

And if either of the champs is losing, I’m actually thinking it’s more Athena losing to Aminata than Billie losing to Velvet. I’ve said it before, Aminata’s proven herself worthy, and if she wasn’t gonna be inaugural Women’s TV Champ, might as well make her the woman that dethrones the undefeated Athena.