Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (9/17/21)

An EST Homecoming!

Published

3 years ago

September 17, 2021

Steven Mitchell

SmackDown is in Knoxville and celebrates the EST!

Before battling for the SmackDown Women’s Championship, Bianca Belair is back home in Knoxville, Tennessee! Will it be the greatEST homecoming ever? Or will The Man come ’round and rain on the parade?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Big E & Finn Balor VS The Usos; Big E & Balor win.
Rick Boogs w/ Shinsuke Nakamura VS Robert Roode w/ Dolph Ziggler; Boogs wins.
Kevin Owens VS “Happy” Corbin; No Contest.
Zelina Vega & Carmella VS Toni Storm & Liv Morgan; Storm & Morgan win.
Dominik Mysterio VS Sami Zayn; Zayn wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Roman Reigns starts off SmackDown!

The Tribal Chief leads the Bloodline and Paul Heyman out as always, and they hold up the titles for the pyro. SmackDown recaps last week, with Heyman finding himself stuck between a Brock and a hard place as the Beast wants his shot at the WWE Universal Championship. The Bloodline saved their Wiseman but the Usos got brutalized for it, and to add to Roman’s stress levels, Finn Balor resurrected THE DEMON! And as was announced earlier today, should the Head of the Table exorcise the Demon at Extreme Rules, he’ll be defending his title against Brock Lesnar at Crown Jewel!

But that is all Roman’s future. In the present, hem Heyman and the Usos have made it to the ring and they raise the belts for another round of pyro. The University of Tennessee is divided between cheers and jeers, but Roman asks Knoxville to #AcknowledgeMe. Then Roman has “Wiseman” educate the Volunteers on how to do that. “Ladies and gentlemen, I have acknowledged this man’s greatness since he was just a little boy. And even I am in awe at the greatness that stands before me.” For Roman takes no Sabbath day off, does not duck any man, and defends his title and his position as Head of the Table every single day, week, month and mega event after mega event! Ever microsecond of every day, Roman Reigns defends his position of being YOUR Tribal Chief!

And do you know why? Because Roman fears no man, no Beast and no Demon! “But they all fear Roman Reigns!” And don’t boo that when you all know it’s true! Balor fears Roman! If he didn’t, then why did he tap into his “inner demons” to challenge Roman for the Universal Heavyweight Championship? BRRROCK! LESNARRR! Fears Roman Reigns! Heyman has known Lesnar intimately and professionally even more than his own family these last 20 years and Heyman has never seen fear in Lesnar’s eyes. Not in the WWE ring, not in the #Brocktagon, not in the operating room. But last week in Madison Square Garden, Heyman saw- BIG E!?

Big E is back on SmackDown, even after cashing in on Raw and becoming the NEW WWE World Champion! Knoxville is fired up and so is Big E! Especially with him wearing Vols orange, white and black! Roman is amused, though, as Big E runs around and shows off his top title. Big E slides into the ring, holds his belt up, and then he smiles at Roman. Roman is handed his belt, fans chant “You Deserve It!” for Big E, but Roman holds the Universal title up. Big E nods and says, “All day.” But before the Usos can step, here comes Finn Balor! He’s the Prince for right now, but he’s still got eyes locked on The Tribal Chief as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and holla holla, we have a tag match!

Big E & Finn Balor VS The Usos!

The teams sort out and Balor starts against Jimmy. They circle, tie up, and Jimmy puts Balor in a corner. The ref counts, Jimmy lets off but Balor dodges to ram his shoulder in again and again! The ref counts, Finn lets off and he wraps a leg around the ropes. Finn pulls, lets off as the ref counts, but he sees Jey sneaking in. Jey backs off but Jimmy kicks low. Jimmy CHOPS then whips but Finn reverses. Jimmy sunset flips but Finn rolls through to basement dropkick! Cover, TWO, but Finn rains down rights! Big E wants in, Finn wrenches Jimmy and tags Big E in! Fans fire up as Big E CLUBS Jimmy’s arm, then wrenches to reel him.

Jimmy elbows the cobra twist away, then headbutts! Tag to Jey, but Big E is ready and hurdles to back elbow! Fans fire up as Big E drags Jey to the apron. Big E CLUBS away on Jey’s chest, lets off to get on the apron, and fans fire up for the APRON SPLASH! Jey writhes and sputters, Big E puts Jey in to cover, TWO! Big E brings Jey up but Jey powers Big E into the corner! Tag to Jimmy and the Usos mug Big E! Fans boo and the ref counts, but Jey lets off and Jimmy ROCKS Big E with an uppercut! Jimmy digs his knee into Big E to choke him on the ropes, but lets off so Jey can get a cheap shot in! Fans boo but Jimmy says #WeTheOnes!

Tag to Jey, the Usos double suplex Big E! Cover, ONE!! Big E is still strong but Jey CLUBS him down then stomps him. Fans rally up for Big E as he rises, and Big E throws hands! Jey RAMS Big E into the corner, Jimmy tags in and the Usos mug Big E again. Jimmy stalks Big E to an open corner and ROCKS him with a right! Jimmy mocks the finger guns then runs at Big E, but only gets POST! Tag to Balor, Big E elbows Jimmy then Balor GAMANGIRIS! Balor trips Jimmy to DOUBLE STMOP! Finn DECKS Jey, CHOPS and whips Jimmy to CHOP again! Jey tags in before the whip, Jimmy reverses and Jey trips Finn up to drag him out!

Jey RAMS Balor into barriers, Jimmy DIVES and takes Balor down! The Usos are back in charge as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Jimmy keeps Balor away from Big E with a shove. Jimmy runs in but gets BOOTS! Balor then runs but into a fireman’s carry! Balor fights it but Jimmy RAMS Balor into buckles! Cover, TWO!! Fans fire up as Balor survives but Jimmy wraps on a chinlock. Jimmy grinds Balor down but fans rally up behind Balor. Balor fights up to JAWBREAKER! Jimmy still keeps Balor from Big E but Balor throws forearms! Balor tries again, Jimmy forearms him, but Balor PELES! Both men are down, fans rally up with “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” on behalf of Big E! Hot tags to E and Jey! And Big E OVERHEAD Belly2Belly Suplexes Jey all around!

Big E has Jey down, he swivels once and runs for the BIG- SAMOAN DROP! Jey was ready and he fires up now! Big E is in a corner, Jey runs into the Urenag-E! Jimmy runs into a LARIAT! Big E runs to BIG SPLASH Jimmy! Big E throws Jimmy out and sees Jey on the outside. Jey gets on the apron, Big E runs, into a BOOT! Jey climbs up and leaps, but Big E gets under! Big E runs back in, into a SUPERKICK!! Cover, TWO!! Jey is beside himself but he tags Jimmy. The Usos coordinate and aim, but Balor returns! Jimmy runs at him but gets POSTED! SLINGBLADE for Jey! Balor goes up top, Big E scoops Jimmy! COUP DE GRACE AND BIG ENDING!! Cover, Big E & Balor win!

Winners: Big E & Finn Balor, by pinfall

The new WWE World Champion gets another big win on SmackDown alongside the Prince! But after Extreme Rules, will Balor be Universal Champion, set on a Survivor Series collision course with Big E?

Roman Reigns watches backstage, and is disappointed.

Roman asks Heyman to sit with him. “Is there something you want to tell me?” Heyman says, “No, sir.” Is he sure that there’s nothing Roman needs to know? No, nothing. Then how about Roman knows that something. Heyman will just tell him again. Heyman says this with all the respect in his heart. Heyman knows what Roman is getting at, and Heyman defends he did NOT know Lesnar was coming to SummerSlam. Lesnar fears Roman, because why else would he make up such a preposterous false narrative? It is all a cover! A mask! For the first time in his life, Lesnar is dealing with fear, and he does that by lying about Heyman knowing! That is how Heyman knows Lesnar fears Roman.

Roman thinks on that, and asks if Lesnar will show up at Extreme Rules. Heyman says no, but how does he know? Heyman sputters as he says he is under the impression if Lesnar fears Roman, then he wouldn’t dare show up then. Roman doesn’t pay Heyman to be “under the impression.” Roman pays Heyman to know in advance. Then is Roman asking Heyman to talk to Brock Lesnar?

Rick Boogs w/ Shinsuke Nakamura VS Robert Roode w/ Dolph Ziggler!

The rockin’ bard still gives the King of Strong Style his rockin’ entrance, but it’ll be all on Boogs to defeat the GLORIOUS One tonight. Will Boogs sweep the Dirty Dawgs in back to back weeks? Or will he be the one getting rocked?

SmackDown returns as Roode is already in the ring. The bell rings and Boogs circles with Roode but Ziggler swipes at him. Roode CLUBS Boogs from behind, chokes him on the ropes then claws Boogs’ face! Ziggler talks trash as Roode lets off, then Roode knees Boogs in the corner. Roode bumps Boogs off buckles, CHOPS then throws haymakers and stomps. The ref counts, Roode lets off and he whips Boogs corner to corner. Boogs reverses, runs in but Roode BOOTS him! Roode hops up for a BLOCKBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Ziggler is annoyed but Roode dares Boogs to get up. Boogs stands, Roode kicks low but Boogs denies the DDT with a fireman’s carry!

Fans fire up as Boogs hits a squat to a SAMOAN DROP! Then Boogs clinches Roode for an OVERHEAD Belly2Belly, then gets him again for an EXPLODER! Roode is in the corner, Boogs clotheslines then BULLDOGS! Boogs rocks and kicks Roode to pump handle. Boogs gets Rood up for the POWERSLAM! Cover, Boogs wins!

Winner: Rock Boogs, by pinfall

Nakamura and Boogs join the commentary desk and Pat McAfee rocks out with the champion and the undefeated Boogs! But then BLAM, Commander Azeez blindsides Nakamura! And he choke grips Boogs to throw Boogs into the steps! Apollo trophy lifts Nakamura to DROP him on the table! But he and Azeez aren’t done, they RAM Nakamura into the side of the table! Apollo picks up the Intercontinental Championship, looks at it, then drops it on Nakamura. It is very clear what the Nigerian Prince wants, but Azeez gives him a mic to speak. “Is this your king? King Nakamura, huh!? You have made a mockery of the Intercontinental Championship, and I am here to demand a rematch!”

Nakamura snarls as he sits up and looks at Apollo. Will the King of Strong Style give Apollo what he wants? Or just what he deserves?

Kevin Owens VS “Happy” Corbin!

Before heading out, Megan interviews Kevin about Corbin, but he stops her right there. He can’t stand another word about that guy. Kevin isn’t happy, he’s mad! He’ll even go so far to say he’s furious. A few weeks ago, Corbin was on Kevin’s show, invited his idiot friend and then got Kevin with a cheap shot. And Kevin hasn’t forgotten about that, or about how he was trying to help that trash. That all backfired, but Kevin will use that anger as fuel to beat the hell out of Happy Corbin. And that will turn Kevin’s frown upside down, and it’ll turn Corbin’s smile upside-down.

But what’s a good rhyme for smile? Eh, it doesn’t matter. After tonight, we’ll have something better than Happy Corbin: Happy Kevin! Will Kevin #JustKeepFighting until Corbin’s humbled?

But as Kevin makes his entrance, Corbin ambushes Kevin on the ramp! Corbin rams him into barriers, then throws him into the LED apron! But Kevin hits back with forearms! Corbin knees low, choke grips and APRON CHOKE SLAMS Kevin down! Corbin dusts off his hat, grins and takes his leave, not caring about the match. Kevin gets up to his feet, when and where will he finally get even?

Paul Heyman walks around backstage.

Kayla Braxton again spooks him as she walks up and asks for a moment. He wants her to stop doing that, but she says sources are saying the WWE Draft could see Lesnar going to Raw. Is Lesnar aware of these rumors? And what are his thoughts if he is? Heyman isn’t sure what’s more laughable: Kayla thinking that he’s still Brock Lesnar’s Advocate, or the notion that she has legitimate sources! Did the sources tell her he’s NOT Lesnar’s Advocate anymore? Kayla has no sources! What she has is this sapiosexual lust in her heart for an old man like Heyman. Well she can’t be with The Wiseman so stop flirting! Stop poking and trolling him! LEAVE HIM ALONE!

But then Big E is there as Heyman turns around. Big E shows Heyman the world title, and Heyman says, “Congratulations. Of all people on the SmackDown brand to become the WWE Campion, you sir, are the one. And I applaud you, because you made the smartest decision of your entire life by realizing you would never have successfully cashed that briefcase in, that contract in, on Roman Reigns, and you went after a champion you knew would be vulnerable. Congratulations, Big E.” Big E says we’ll see when Big E faces Roman at Survivor Series. But, will Heyman’s guy be Roman, or Brrrrock, Lesnarrr? Or maybe, will the Demon ruin all the best laid plans because he was overlooked?

Big E laughs, but turns around into SUPERKICKS from the Usos! The Usos mug Big E, gets him up and THROW him into trunks! Then they go after him more! The mugging continues, talk trash, “You playing with the wrong ones!” WHAM into another trunk! The Usos continue to beat Big E down and then continue to bark at him. Roman then walks in as Big E sputters and writhes, and he leads the Usos away. Will Big E’s rage only build from now until November, waiting for the chance to get at the Tribal Chief?

Seth Rollins is here!

Despite being “conflicted” about what he did to the Rated R Superstar, he seems in a much better mood tonight in his all metallic silver suit and matching shoes. But will the Savior of SmackDown have any answers for what happened last week? Or will he simply answer for his actions?

SmackDown returns to the ring and Rollins has a mic. Rollins says that was unfortunate for Big E there, someone should’ve helped him. But on a more important note, last week, Rollins had one of the greatest matches of his career when he defeated WWE Hall of Famer, Edge, in Madison Square Garden. We’ve had time to process our feelings in regards to how it ended and if Rollins is being honest, that was all unfortunate, unsettling and even scary. What happened at the end to Edge was scary, when Rollins’ boot came down right around here, across the back of Edge’s neck. Rollins heard a pop, and he felt a crunch, and he isn’t sure how to describe that.

“Do you guys know when you step on a cockroach, and you’re not exactly sure what you stepped on, but you can feel it’s body break and you can hear that crunch underneath your boot? And you know when you pick up your shoe, there’s gonna be a lifeless body underneath?” A rather morbid visual… But Rollins wants us to watch the footage. The recap package shows Rollins cheating to get the low blow, and then hitting Edge with Superkick after Superkick until the Rated R Superstar was in position for the vicious and final Curb Stomp, as well as how distraught the MSG audience was seeing Edge be stretchered to the back and to an ambulance.

Back in the present, Rollins himself seems a bit unsettled. “Now I know that’s difficult to watch. It’s difficult for me to watch, as well. And I understand why you guys are booing, I really do.” But Rollins has a question that he’s been asking himself all week, and it’s very simple. “What did you think was going to happen?!” Seriously, what did we think!? Someone give Rollins an answer! That was one of the greatest wins in Rollins’ career, and he didn’t have even a second to enjoy it! The moment he’s backstage, everyone’s looking at him. He sees social media calling him a monster and going #WhySethWhy? This company even said what Rollins did was “unconscionable” and that he went too far!

Rollins asks the fans, did he go too far? “YES!” Oh, really? Because what Rollins did was use a legal move in a legal match and won it the same way he’s won matches for the majority of his career! So did he go too far? “YES!” No, the one who went too far was EDGE! EDGE went too far as a family man. Edge knew the risks and the consequences and still got in the ring! So who’s really to blame? Fans say “YOU! YOU!” but Rollins tells them to look around. Rollins says the FANS are to blame! This entire time, the fans goaded Edge into goading Rollins. If you don’t believe him, remember when Edge called Rollins “Edge Lite?” And what did the fans do? The fans CHEERED it!

What about when Edge dumped black gunk on Rollins’ head and ruined his suit? What’d they do then? Don’t be shy! You laughed at Rollins! Or what about when Edge beat Rollins at SummerSlam? What’d they do then? Cheer! So Rollins didn’t do anything wrong! If anything’s wrong, it’s everyone in this place and watching at home! But Rollins is the villain, oooh~! Well if you didn’t like that, you won’t like this. Rollins isn’t done with Edge, either! Not by a long shot. And here’s why: A few nights ago on NXT, Edge’s wife, Beth Phoenix, said that Edge was at home recuperating.

“So Edge, if you’re at home recuperating, I imagine you are watching right now. And I know what you’re thinking, because I would be thinking the exact same thing.” So Rollins asks Edge this question: “Are you physically capable of getting back in this ring? More importantly, are you emotionally capable of getting back in this ring?” Rollins saw the look in Edge’s eyes when he got loaded onto the stretcher and into the ambulance. And that look was fear. For just one second, just one single, solitary second… Rollins actually felt SORRY for him!! And that feeling is eating Rollins alive, and he cannot live with himself feeling sorry for someone like Edge! Rollins has to move on!

But Rollins can’t do that until he finishes Edge. So either Edge holes up in his cabin and Rollins storms over there to beat the life out of him in front of the family, or Edge crawls his way back into the ring and they go one more time. “For my own sanity, I have to finish you, one way or another.” The Architect has designs for the true ending of Edge’s comeback, but will he heartlessly dismantle the Hall of Famer in or out of the ring?

Backstage interview with Becky Lynch.

The Man, the SmackDown Women’s Champion, is asked about Bianca Belair’s homecoming celebration and if it might give Bianca some momentum going into their title match. “So, momentum is a tricky thing, because it’ll keep going until it meets an opposing force.” Bianca had a lot of momentum before meeting Becky at SummerSlam, and the outcome at Extreme Rules will be the same. But tonight is Bianca’s night. Though, Becky’s never been to a homecoming. She might check it out. Is that the Man putting the EST on notice?

Zelina Vega & Carmella VS Toni Storm & Liv Morgan!

La Muneca and the (self-proclaimed) Most Beautiful Woman in the WWE seem to be sticking together as a duo. But will they both be struck down by the Lightning From Down Under and the LIVing End?

SmackDown returns as Liv and Toni are already in the ring. The teams sort out and Toni starts with Mella. The two circle, Mella sucker punches Liv and laughs! Liv is furious but the ref keeps her back. Mella talks trash on Liv but then she dodges Toni’s haymaker! Tag to Vega and she shoves Toni. Toni kicks but Vega blocks to CHOP! Vega dodges now but Toni BOOTS her this time! Toni runs at the corner but Mella distracts. Toni stops and Vega JUMP KICKS then shoves Toni down to KNEE her down! Cover, TWO! Vega brings Toni up, hammerlocks and hops on but Toni endures the hoverboard to throw body shots. Toni powers up to suplex Vega high and hard!

Vega crawls, tags to Mella, but Toni tags Liv! Fans fire up as Liv fires off forearms on Mella! Liv has Mella in a corner, whips her corner to corner but Mella reverses. Liv boots back, then wrenches to WING SNAPPER into the BUCKLES! Mella claims her nose is broken and shrieks as Vega checks it for her. The ring count is climbing, but Mella refuses to get in. But we don’t even see any blood! Mella is just giving up and the other team wins!

Winners: Toni Storm & Liv Morgan, by count-out

Liv is not satisfied and says, “Wow~, really? Oh my gosh, Carmella sweetie!” Did she do that? But y’know what? Liv isn’t sorry at all! And it’s because she’s tired of Mella running her mouth to then run away. Liv challenges Mella to a match at Extreme Rules! And if Mella accepts, then Liv will make Mella look as hideous on the outside as she is on the inside. Will Mella accept the challenge for this malicious makeover?

The Street Profits are fired up!

But why? Because they’re in Knoxville, Tennessee! The EST is H O M E so tonight they celebrate~! Everyone will be on the guest list for the after party! Shotzi & Tegan are even bringing the tank, big bank! But while they gonna eat good tonight, what they’re really hungry for is the gold. Because the Usos~ are scared. Running scared from the scary Profits. They distracted from the fact that they ’bout to lose their titles. Because the Profits are UP, and #WeWantTheSmoke! Will Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins burn the Usos down and make their seventh title reign go up in smoke?

WWE Medical checks on Mella’s nose.

Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville are there as she finally pulls her hands away. No blood, not even a dislocation, and Vega assures Mella, she’s just as beautiful as ever. Mella is still upset that “that little lowlife” tried to turn her into a 5 outta 10 like her. It’s one thing to be jealous, but it’s another to try and deface the most beautiful woman. So at Extreme Rules, Mella accepts that challenge! Even more so, Vega will take Liv on first. Will Liv gladly break The Doll before getting at the bratty Barbie on PPV?

Finn Balor speaks.

“Everyone wants to know where The Demon comes from. You see, unlike Roman, I wasn’t born into a wrestling family. I don’t have a bloodline. I was born into a family of railroad workers. I’m not supposed to be here. But this is what I chose. And I scratched and I clawed and I fought, and here I am. The Demon comes from inside. The Demon is a manifestation of everyone that’s ever told me no, or doubted me, or disrespected me. The Demon unlocks a rage inside of me that cannot be controlled. I don’t summon the Demon. The Demon summons me. Now Roman and his cousins, their disrespect is just adding fuel to the fire.

“But Roman will see that the fire that burns inside of me burns much brighter than the fires that burn all around me. You are looking at the face of Finn Balor, the challenger. At Extreme Rules, you will see the face of The Demon, the Universal Champion.” Things heat up and Balor transforms before our very eyes. Will Balor finally have vindication as he dethrones the Head of the Table?

Sonya Deville is on the phone, arguing with someone.

She wants Karen to notify her as soon as- Wait, Naomi walks over and demands Sonya get off the phone. Sonya hangs up and asks Naomi what’s wrong. Naomi has been more than patient and more than respectful, so where is her match? Sonya says there just isn’t that much time. They’ll try again next week. Naomi isn’t sure what this issue with her is, and she doesn’t care what it is, because she’s had it. Naomi has been here longer than Sonya, accomplished way more than Sonya, and feels Sonya acting like Naomi doesn’t belong is rather bizarre. Naomi is a two-time SmackDown Women’s Champion, and one thing Sonya doesn’t know is that Naomi never quits.

So mark her words, one way or another, Naomi will get her match. Does Sonya feel that? Sonya stays quiet and Naomi walks away. Will SmackDown #FeelTheGlow in a whole new light?

Dominik Mysterio VS Sami Zayn!

The King of Lucha Libre promised his son to not be in his corner for this third chance, but Rey does show up for commentary. Will Rey respect his son’s wishes and simply watch as we see round three of Dominik VS Zayn?

SmackDown returns as The Great Liberator makes his way to the ring. The bell rings and Sami goes right out to get at Rey on commentary. Rey tells Sami to focus on his son. Dom falls for the cat ‘n’ mouse game and gets stomped as they go back into the ring. Rey says this is the stuff that Dom has to learn for himself, the things that are hard to teach. Sami whips and CLOBBERS Dom, covers, TWO! Sami throws crossface forearms as Rey defends that he isn’t being a “little league dad,” as Michael Cole puts it. Rey knows Dom will be even better than him one day, but Sami keeps on Dom. Dom blocks the bomb to wrench and forearm! And forearm again! And again!

Dom goes up and up and springboards to RANA Sami away! Sami gets to a corner, Dom runs in but into a BOOT! Rey stresses as Sami gets Dom up, knuckle locks and SLAPOS him! Sami goes up and up but Dom trips him up! Sami going lucha backfires and Dom dropkicks him down! Dom goes up and TRIANGLE CROSSBODIES! Direct hit and Rey fires up! Dom has control as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again as Sami throws hands on Dom. Sami brings Dom up but Dom blocks the back suplex. Dom elbows away on Sami’s head! Fans fire up for Dom as he runs, but Sami reels him in to BLUE THUNDER- RANA!! Dom counters and Rey is fired up! Cover, TWO!! Dom is in a corner, Sami runs in but into an elbow. Dom goes up to TORNADO DDT! Cover, TWO!! Dom feels how close he is and he brings Sami back up. Dom dodges a clothesline to ENIZIGURI! Dropkick to put Sami on the ropes! Rey shouts GO, Dom dials it up to 619!! Dom hurries up top and Rey wants him to go faster! FROG SPLASH but onto knees! Cover, Sami wins!

Winner: Sami Zayn, by pinfall

The master strategist rubs it in that he is 3-0 against Rey’s son. “He’s not on my level. He’s not ready, Rey. You’re not the coach that you thought you were.” Rey may have to swallow his pride, but what will it take for Dom to finally get another win on his own?

BREAKING NEWS!

Because of Naomi’s intimidation of Sonya, management is fining her under “insubordination.” Further details are available on WWE’s official website.

Plus, after the attacks seen tonight, some major matches are made! For next week, the WWE Intercontinental Championship will be on the line as Nakamura accepts Apollo’s challenge! Will the King of Strong Style still reign as a champion? And with the rising animosity between the Bloodline and Big E, Monday Night Raw will have a HUGE Six Man Tag! Big E, Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods ride again as the 100% New Day against Roman Reigns & The Usos! Will the Power of Positivity get payback on the Universal & SmackDown Tag Team Champions?

SmackDown shares footage from Bianca’s return to Knoxville.

The EST says this was a whirlwind day, but in a good way. Knoxville’s her pride, her home, where she feels safe and loved. Plus, it was great for her to go back to her high school while it’s homecoming week for them, too. The students were excited to see her, she is proud to be a #Knoxvillian, and that is who she will continue to be.

KANE is here!!

Well, he’s Glenn Jacobs right now, but that’s the same thing! And on top of all this, he gets to preside over the EST Homecoming, after the break!

SmackDown returns and Kane gives us one more flame burst from the ring for old time’s sake! Kane then has the mic to say, “That never gets old.” Fans cheer but as Mayor of Knox County, Kane says it is his honor to welcome back to her hometown, Bianca Belair! Bianca makes her entrance and Knoxville is thunderous for the EST Lady Vol! And of course, her family is right up front for it, too! Bianca is already emotional as Kane asks her how it feels to be back. It’s amazing~! There is no place like home and she’s so happy to see her family and friends here tonight. But they say that everything that happens in the past shapes your future. Knoxville made The EST.

It was right here with Daddy Belair that he told her that if someone starts something with you, you finish it. And Becky caught Bianca off guard at SummerSlam. Bianca’s always fought her way right back up to the top, so Extreme Rules will be where Bianca takes back that SmackDown Women’s Championship. Kane says, “Here’s the deal.” After Bianca wins that title back, she better come back to Knoxville for a HUGE celebration in her honor! But speaking of honors, it is Kane’s honor to also present Bianca with a Key to the County! Fans cheer and Bianca hugs Kane. She picks up the biggEST Key and fans chant “EST! EST!”

Bianca thanks them all so much. From her family to Austin East High to her alma mater, the University of Tennessee, she is proud to be Knoxville made! But enough about her. Time to celebrate Knoxville itself! And there’s only one way to do it: sing some Rocky Top! Here we go! One, two, three! Rocky Top~, you’ll always be, home sweet home to me~. But here comes Becky! She sings her own take on Rocky Top and says this is so awesome. Congratulations to Bianca for this, but uh, Kane’s lying to everyone thinking Bianca’s gonna take the title. But at least she can be Knoxville’s Champion. Not THE champion, but a champion.

Aw, these pictures are nice. So fast, so smart. Becky’s never been to a homecoming. Oh, and she got a key? Well Becky’s got the title on lock, so… Girl, Uh-Uh. Why you even here? Becky is standing here and she don’t even go here~! Fans chant that for Bianca, and Becky knows she doesn’t go here! She isn’t here to steal anyone’s thunder. But Bianca’s getting a lot of attention in Becky’s shadow. But hey, SummerSlam was Becky’s night. Extreme Rules will be Becky’s night, too. But tonight is Bianca’s night. She wanted to show Bianca some respect. Becky offers a handshake, points out all the kiddies looking up to Bianca, but she isn’t gonna shake The Man’s hand? Becky’s trying to be the “bigger man” here.

Bianca smiles, fans don’t trust this from Becky, but Bianca shakes. And then she’s the one who keeps Becky where she is! Becky takes a swing, but swings into a torture rack! Becky fights free, reels Bianca in, MANHANDLE SLAM! Becky smirks and takes her title with her as she leaves. Fans boo but Bianca gets back up. Will Becky be able to keep Bianca down a second time? Or will Bianca make this the extremEST match of Becky’s career?

My Thoughts:

This was a good SmackDown but things just felt backwards as far as the match card. All the excitement was in the first part, with Big E getting to essentially have his farewell to SmackDown match alongside Balor, in a really good tag match with The Usos. Big E and Balor win to get some momentum, both Big E as the new world champion and Balor as the next immediate challenger to Roman. And it’s pretty big that Raw is going to give us a Six Man Tag, The New Day VS The Bloodline, even though that totally uses up the idea I had for Survivor Series. I suppose this could be a sampler for separate World VS Universal Champion and Raw VS SmackDown Tag Team Champion matches at Survivor Series, though.

Now obviously, there’s a lot being set up for Roman all at once, with Balor at Extreme Rules, Lesnar already slated for Crown Jewel, and of course Champion VS Champion at Survivor Series. Balor’s backstage promo was alright, but I feel like his newest explanation of The Demon flies in the face of past ones. But whatever, Vince doesn’t expect any of us to remember that, since Vince doesn’t think continuity is important. And obviously there are many reasons, both socially and financially, as to why Crown Jewel wants the Tribal Chief VS The Beast over anything else, so we basically have the roadmap all figured out for us for the next eight weeks.

But at least Heyman’s part is still a lot of fun, with him almost getting heart attacks from Kayla surprising him, and his loyalties still being questioned. Still hoping Heyman just gives up working for either Roman or Lesnar and returns to being a sort of king maker and choosing the next Paul Heyman Guy as opposed to being bossed around. Then there was still some general excitement for Boogs having his match with Roode. Boogs wins quick again, but again the Dirty Dawgs are kinda the chumps of SmackDown right now, and then we get that title match set up. I’m thinking Nakamura retains and this is one last go of it for Apollo before the Draft moves him and Azeez to Raw.

Corbin making the match a No Contest is another clear sign that we’re getting something at Extreme Rules, and that probably includes Logan Paul being back for that. Sami’s beat Dom three times, can he move on from that and join Kevin in this so we can at least get Kevin & Sami back as a team again? Speaking of Dom, is he going to ever snap on his dad pressuring him? We need Rey grilling Dom on his mistakes as a promo, with it leading to Dom shouting and storming off. Dom isn’t going to get anywhere in kayfabe or with the fans if he doesn’t take a real stand and start to define himself. If they don’t want to make him Dom Guerrero, fine, but we just need to see who Dominik is.

I swear Vince trying to drag all his brands back into the past. Vega & Mella VS Liv & Toni felt like we were traveling back in time to the Land Before #GiveDivasAChance cuz that match was short, rusty and had a sad ending. Mella VS Liv is probably also going to be sad as a match they’re just throwing onto Extreme Rules with such a half-assed build where there was barely any fire or venom. Where are Shotzi & Tegan when it comes to being in the ring? Aren’t they SmackDown’s contenders for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships? I said this on Raw, I’ll say it here: those two need to roll up to whoever are champs after Natty & Tamina VS Rhea & Nikki and literally shoot their shot.

One of the better things tonight was Naomi getting in Sonya’s face. She gets a kayfabe fine for it, but I really expect The Bloodline’s influence to start kicking in here. If Jimmy finally came into the fold, so can Naomi. Whoever is champion after Extreme Rules, I can see Naomi being backed by the Bloodline going after the title. And speaking of that title, you can see that Bianca is a star in even the WWE’s eyes with them giving her the homecoming segment. Bianca is definitely someone who is worthy of the “You Deserve It!” chants, so this was truly a great moment overall. But of course, Vince doesn’t let hometown heroes stand tall in their hometowns, Becky gets her with the slam. But this could also be a way to get the math in Bianca’s favor so that Extreme Rules is a big victory for her. Maybe.

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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Mitchell’s AEW Rampage Results & Report! (9/17/21)

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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

13 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

18 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.