Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (7/8/22)

It’s time to Liv it up!

Published

2 years ago

July 8, 2022

Steven Mitchell

We’re LIVing in a new era for SmackDown!

In one fell swoop, Liv Morgan went from 2022 Miss Money in the Bank to our NEW SmackDown Women’s Champion! What is next? #WatchHer and find out!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

The Viking Raiders VS Jinder Mahal & Shanky; The Viking Raiders win.
WWE Intercontinental Championship Open Challenge: GUNTHER w/ Ludwig Kaiser VS ???; changed to…
Ludwig Kaiser w/ GUNTHER VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Nakamura wins.
Natalya VS Ronda Rousey; Rousey wins.
Lacey Evans & Aliyah VS Shayna Baszler & Shotzi Blackheart; No Contest.
Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships Contenders Match: The Usos VS Los Lotharios; The Usos win and deny Los Lotharios a title match.
Undisputed WWE Universal Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Drew McIntyre VS Sheamus; changed to…
Drew McIntyre VS Pete Dunne w/ The Brawling Brutes; McIntyre wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Roman Reigns is here!

The Tribal Chief, the Head of the Table, the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, leads the Bloodline out, and of course Paul Heyman hands Roman the blue belt to raise to the sky for the pyro. Roman, Heyman and the Usos continue to the ring, where they raise all their belts again for more pyro. But wait! Mr. Money in the Bank, (Austin) Theory is on the stage! Is Theory thinking of cashing in tonight rather than at SummerSlam? We find out, after the break!

SmackDown returns and The Bloodline is standing in the ring but Theory is staying away. Heyman hands Roman a mic while fans are torn between cheers and jeers. Roman hears that, but still says, “Fort Worth, Texas… ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” Fans are still torn but Roman smiles. He can tell there’s the “You Suck” chants, there are “Roman” chants, but in the end, when the Tribal Chief is in the house, business picks up! And that means life is good. Life is so damn good! And he said this before: as long as God wakes Roman up, Roman can handle anything. Roman woke up in the compound, went to his private gym, then got on his private jet to come here.

Roman is breathing, healthy, happy to be at work and on HIS show, SmackDown! “It’s an absolute privilege and an honor to see my family, my Bloodline. And then I see my Wise Man, my Special Counsel, and he looks like this!” Heyman is frowning, is what he means. What happened? Why does Heyman look concerned? Roman asks Heyman why. The Tribal Chief is here, Heyman shouldn’t be concerned. Roman is the GOAT, he’s smashed ’em all! Feel confident that he’s here. What’s the problem here? Haven’t we been through this? We ain’t going back there. But how about this? Heyman, put your hand out.

Heyman gets nervous but Roman says it’s okay, just put the hand out. Heyman does just that, and Roman hands the mic back so he can tell us what’s wrong. “I love you, My Tribal Chief. And I love the Usos. But we have a problem, and that problem’s name… is BRRROCK! LESNARRR!” Fans cheer for The Beast as Heyman says that Roman is the GOAT, the Greatest Of All Time. In an era where NO ONE can hold onto a title, Roman holds onto BOTH heavyweight championships! He is the UNDISPUTED Champion, and has been for over 600, headed into 700, headed into 800 days, maybe even 1000! The longest reigning champion of the past 35 YEARS!

But the problem is, Brock Lesnar doesn’t respect that! Lesnar has one last chance against Roman, and has one last match against Roman, and when Lesnar is cornered, “that’s when the Beast is at his most dangerous.” Heyman knows because he’s known Lesnar for 20 years. Who was only 24 years old and wasn’t supposed to beat The Rock for the title? Brock Lesnar. Who went up against the 21-0 Undertaker at WrestleMania and wasn’t supposed to conquer the Streak? Brock Lesnar. And who has his back against the wall right now, My Tribal Chief? Who is in a do or die situation? Who becomes an obscure reference in history in the annals, in the chronicles, of the Tribal Chief or who ends this all? Brock. Lesnar.

Heyman is scared! What happens now is that we see Roman Reigns go savage! We see Roman be violent! We see Roman SMASH Lesnar! Because pinning Lesnar down for three second sis one thing, but putting him down for TEN, in his final title match, in a Last Man Standing Match, is a whole different story! Roman is gonna have to show up on July 30th in Nashville, Tennessee, and be a Roman like never before! Put on the best performance in the history of Roman Reign’s career! The most violent, the most diabolical, the most dangerous, the Beastslayer, the Conqueror of Conquerors, the GOAT of GOATS, until at the end they say, “Your winner, the Ultimate Needle Mover, the Tribal Chief, IN GOD MODE HIMSELF… ROMAN…! REIGNS!!”

Roman’s music hits and Heyman bows before his Tribal Chief. But then THEORY officially makes his entrance. He grins and makes a lap around the ring, holding his briefcase, before leaving. The Youngest Mr. MITB in WWE History is just keeping Roman aware of what’s coming even after the Last Man Standing match. Will Theory make Vince McMahon’s investment worth every penny?

The Viking Raiders VS Jinder Mahal & Shanky!

Erik & Ivar have shown they’re no longer having fun, they’re here to raid and rage and take over SmackDown’s Tag Division! Will the Modern Day Maharaja and Skyscraping Dance Machine feel the fury first hand? Or can Jinder make Shanky get serious and turn the tide?

SmackDown returns and the teams sort out. Shanky starts against Ivar, and Shanky starts wanting to groove! Jinder tags in and tells Shanky to stop it. Ivar and Jinder circle, tie up, and Ivar puts Jinder in the corner to fire off haymakers! Tag to Erik, the Vikings mug Jinder against ropes and then Erik grinds the shoulder. Fans rally as Jinder endures and fights back up. Jinder fights free and THRUST KICKS! But Shanky is too busy rallying the fans to tag! Erik tags Ivar, CLOBBERS Jinder, then DECKS Shanky! The Vikings get Jinder up for the DOUBLE POWERBOMB! Cover, the Viking Raiders win!

Winners: The Viking Raiders, by pinfall

But they’re not done! They stomp away Jinder, then Shanky gets in, only to get mugged! But here comes the NEW DAY! Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods tell the Vikings to hold on! Kofi will be honest, last week, the Vikings kicked their butts. And then the week before that. What are you guys? Seymour- BUT! See these right here? The New Day’s butts are still here! THICC AF, so the Vikings didn’t do the job. Furthermore, those were not sanctioned beatings. That means those don’t count! But ya bois found a relic from a kingdom long since passed. But since the Vikings are illiterate- Wait, they don’t know what that means… Uh, it means you can’t read.

So these are officially sanctioned ASS BEATING TICKETS! That means that tonight, right here in Fort Worth, it is time for the New Day to give the Vikings the whooping they deserve! BECAAAUSE! And the brawl is on!! Ivar puts Woods in a corner but Woods turns it around! Erik SLAMS Kofi, then KNEES Woods! Erik feeds Woods to Ivar’s SEATED SENTON! Fans boo as Ivar goes up and Erik drags Kofi up! Erik hands Kofi off for the SUPER POWERSLAM!! The Vikings stand tall over the former ELEVEN-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions once again, will they be the new rulers of tag team wrestling?

Pat McAfee is not here, Corey Graves is on commentary.

That’s because Baron Corbin attacked him after MITB went off the air last weekend! Corbin mugged McAfee then hit an END OF DAYS to the floor, all as his way of saying he accepts the challenge for SummerSlam! But wait, now Corbin is joining commentary to say he can do this 100 times better! Corey kisses up to Corbin and says McAfee doesn’t want none of Corbin.

WWE Intercontinental Championship Open Challenge: GUNTHER w/ Ludwig Kaiser VS ???

Der Ring General dispatched of former champion, Ricochet, and is ready to move on to someone, anyone, new. Though, given what he and the Impeccable German have been saying, no one will ever take this title from him, no matter who they are. So then, who steps up to challenge Gunther for this title? We’ll see, after the break.

SmackDown returns and Ludwig says, “Ladies and gentlemen… There is no competitor worthy of standing in the ring, much less competing with YOUR NEW Intercontinental Champion. It is our personal opinion that none of you in attendance are worthy of watching Der Ring General, Gunther, compete tonight. However, I know it’s customary for Intercontinental Champions of a lesser ilk to defend this championship against anyone in an Open Challenge.” Gunther says anyone who defends a title against a foe he does not know is a FOOL. Those who think he is taking on such a challenge is foolish! Someone has to be deserving of an opportunity to compete with him for the Intercontinental Championship!

Ludwig says they’re just being honest. But wait! Here comes SHINSUKE NAKAMURA! And Corbin on commentary pretends to be McAfee and gets pumped for the King of Strong Style as he makes his way out here. Gunther and Ludwig scowl while Nakamura gets the mic. Nakamura gets close to Gunther, looks him up and done, and says, “He doesn’t want to accept me? You keep your title for now. But Kaiser… I challenge YOU to a match, right now!!” If Nakamura has to earn his shot, he’ll earn his shot! Will Gunther’s lieutenant be used as a tune-up? Or can he deny Nakamura his golden opportunity?

Ludwig Kaiser w/ GUNTHER VS Shinsuke Nakamura!

The bell rings and Nakamura circles with Kaiser. They tie up, Nakamura fires off knees, then bumps Kaiser off buckles. Kaiser goes to boot but Nakamura blocks and puts Kaiser in the ropes to ROUNDHOUSE and SLIDING GERMAN! Nakamura stares down Gunther, then gets back in the ring. Kaiser CLOBBERS Nakamura, runs and DROPKICKS Nakamura out! Gunther mocks Nakamura, “What’s this?” while looming over him, and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Kaiser has Nakamura’s arm in an armlock. Nakamura fights up but Kaiser knees low. Kaiser scoops but Nakamura slips off and runs to DYNAMIC DROPKICK! Fans fire up while both men are down! Nakamura gets up, blocks a punch to fire off a strike fest and AX KICK! Nakamura waits on Kaiser to sit up and he KICKS him in the chest again and again! Kaiser blocks a kick but not the ENZIGURI! Nakamura puts Kaiser in the corner for GOOD VIBRATIONS! Nakamura puts Kaiser up top on the corner and runs in, TOP SHELF KNEE! Cover, TWO! Corbin talks trash on McAfee, both how he is now and how he was in the NFL.

Nakamura drags Kaiser up to a SLEEPER, but Kaiser backs him into a corner! Kaiser blocks a boot, says “NEIN!” and GAMANGIRIS! Then BUTTERFLY SUPLEXES! Kaiser looms over Nakamura, drags him up, and runs, but Nakamura ducks the Penalty Kick! Kaiser ducks a roundhouse but not the WHEEL KICK! Nakamura aims, to KINSHASA! Cover, Nakamura wins!

Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall

Opportunity earned! Gunther is furious with Kaiser for failing him, and then demands he stand back up. Kaiser gets to his feet while fans cheer for “USA! USA!” Gunther CHOPS Kaiser as his punishment for losing! But Gunther says it isn’t over, he wants Kaiser to get up again. Kaiser does, and Gunther CHOPS him again! Gunther tells Kaiser to get up to take this like a man, and then he CHOPS Kaiser off his feet! Imperium does not tolerate failure or weakness, but will Gunther have to accept what’s coming from the King of Strong Style?

Liv Morgan is here!

Fort Worth fires up for the NEW SmackDown Women’s Champion as she heads to the ring. She cashed in on Ronda Rousey and took the gold, but who will her first defense as champion be against? We’ll find out, after the break.

SmackDown returns and Michael Cole interviews Liv in the ring. He congratulates her and she says thanks. Fans chant, “You Deserve It!” and Cole agrees she does. Last Saturday, Liv etched her name in history by climbing the ladder, grabbing the MITB contract, and just two hours later, she cashed in on the Baddest Woman on the Planet! Now let’s keep in mind that Ronda had suffered a knee injury against Natalya, so she’ll surely want a rematch. It could be SummerSlam. Liv says bring it! She can’t wait either way, because this title is the culmination of a lifetime of hard work, sweat and tears.

Liv knows exactly what it took for her to get where she is today, and she’ll work 10 times harder to stay. She promises us that NO ONE wants this title more than her! Cole talks about how 10 years ago, she was a waitress, saving up to train as a sports entertainer. And over the last decade, she scratched, clawed, learned, tried, and almost got there, only to have it pulled away from her. She wears her heart on her sleeve, suffered setbacks, but for the first time, she gets to experience the jubilation. What does it mean for her to finally be champion in the WWE? Liv has a big smile and fans cheer as she says, “This means everything to me. Absolutely everything to me.”

Liv dreamed about this her entire life, and it got hard because she felt she’d never get here. But here she is! She wants to take this as a reminder that, as John Cena would say, you should #NeverGiveUp! But then Natalya makes her way out here! The Queen of Harts says she can dream, too. Of when Liv will finally shut up! The only reason Liv is champion is because of Natty! Liv’s little Cinderella Story ends at SummerSlam, and the clock strikes midnight. There is no way in Hell Liv would’ve beaten a fresh Ronda! Liv won because Natty hurt Ronda! Natty loved watching Ronda scream in pain. so while Natty lost the match, she enjoyed what happened.

Liv and Natty talk trash, but wait! RONDA IS HERE! The Baddest Woman has just the slightest hobble but she’s not letting that get to her. Ronda joins Natty and Liv in the ring, gets herself a mic, and congratulates Liv for seizing the moment at MITB. But savor the honeymoon phase, because at SummerSlam, you’ll learn challenging for a title is a whole lot easier than defending one. But Natty, did you say you enjoyed hurting Ronda? And she took credit for Ronda losing the title? Well, consider Ronda convinced. She’s not dressed to compete right now, but Fort Worth, do you want to see Ronda beat the crap out of Natty?

Fans cheer but Natty sucker punches Ronda! Natty then goes for Liv but Liv hits her first and sends her out! Liv grabs up the belt to hold it up, ready to take on anyone! But uh, Ronda is back up on her feet. Will Liv have to worry about more than one challenger on the road to SummerSlam?

Natalya VS Ronda Rousey!

Made official during the break, it’s a rematch from MITB! There will be major title opportunity implications on the line, will the Queen of Harts hurt Ronda more? Or will the Baddest Woman on the Planet return the favor?

The bell rings and the two tie up. Ronda kicks Natty’s leg, then kick sit again! Ronda ties the leg up around ropes then throws elbows! The ref counts while Ronda pulls on the leg, but Ronda lets off at 4. Ronda KICKS the leg again and Natty bails out. Natty hobbles now but Ronda pursues. Ronda taunts Natty, Natty crawls into the ring, but Ronda gets the leg to SMASH it on the apron! Natty writhes and rolls away but Ronda tells her to get back here. Ronda pursues Natty to the ramp, and she KICKS the leg! Natty hobbles but Ronda fires off body shots! Ronda punches Natty back to ringside to then fireman’s carry, and SLAM her on the apron!

Ronda keeps after Natty’s leg, then gets on the apron for an ANKLE LOCK! The ref counts, Ronda lets go at 4, and Natty flops into the ring. Ronda says she’s going to have fun like Natty did, and puts the ANKLE LOCK back on! Natty fights up but Ronda hits an EXPLODER! Ronda turns Natty back over for one more ANKLE LOCK! Natty endures, even as Ronda puts on the GRAPEVINE!! Natty screams but TAPS, Ronda wins!

Winner: Ronda Rousey, by submission

Rowdy Ronda gets revenge on Natty for her leg, but this is just step one. Will Liv have to protect every limb she has at SummerSlam?

Backstage interview with Drew McIntyre.

Megan asks the Scottish Warrior about tonight’s #1 contenders match, with Sheamus and his Brawling Brutes being his only obstacle. How does he plan on handling them? McIntyre says he went to Europe, to Cardiff, to the castle, and Clash at the Castle is going to be huge. And McIntyre is making it clear now: Whoever is coming out of SummerSlam the champion, McIntyre’s coming after them! It could be Roman Reigns, it could be Brock Lesnar, or it could be the New Chosen One, (Austin) Theory. But that doesn’t matter now. McIntyre has his attention focused on his old nemesis, Sheamus.

McIntyre and Sheamus go way back, to when they were 19 and 47. So many ups and downs, this high stakes match is appropriately happening in Texas because everything is bigger in Texas! Especially steaks! But yes, the Brutes. He knows the first chance, they’ll go after McIntyre. But McIntyre has the deadliest three in the WWE, and it’ll be the last thing Sheamus hears before McIntyre kicks his head off his body. And what three does he mean? THREE! TWO! ONE! BOOM!! Will the Scottish Warrior slay the Celtic Warrior and be ready for the Universal Champion in Cardiff?

Max Dupri is in the ring.

The founder of Maximum Male Models is given a formal introduction with a drum roll, and he thanks us. “The highly anticipated debut of Maximum Male Models was not only a smashing success, but a viral sensation. And this week, we offer a captivating treat to the WWE Universe as we present the 2022 Tennis Collection!” Fans boo already, but first up is “a man whose looks will serve your inner needs and desires. Here is… Maçè!” The man formerly called Mace struts out in white shorts and blue Polo while holding an old style wooden racket.

Dupri says MMM embodies athletic excellence and elegance. The sleeves are accentuated by Maçè’s 80 inch wingspan and 20 inch biceps while allowing efficient breathing room for the perfect backhand. The lightweight bottoms hug the thighs and hamstrings, further accentuating the spectacle required to grace the court. Maçè struts back up the ramp and that of course means up next is “a man who oozes appeal and evinces the essence of game, set, match. Ladies and gentlemen… Mansôör!” Mansoor struts out, in his own white shorts, a white Polo with blue sleeves, and a headband.

Mansôör strikes a pose as Dupri says he takes proportions to another level. Notice Mansôör’s broad shoulders, and that dazzling chest-to-torso ratio. Those strapping biceps are accentuated by the finest cloth so that he can provide a strong stroke over the net. Mansôör struts back up the ramp, and Dupri says only the most “penetrating” look can be represented by MMM. “If you feel you have what it takes to strut down that aisle the way they do, please, submit your full body photos to our official website, MaximumMaleModels.com. But if you do not have the qualities, the natural qualities of a Maçè and Mansôör, don’t bother.” Dupri’s clients walk back out for one more pose and Dupri wants another round of applause for the men that embody the mantra, “Titillate the juices of your guilty pleasures.”

Backstage interview with (Austin) Theory.

Kayla Braxton asks what was the message Theory was trying to send Roman Reigns earlier tonight. Theory was letting the Tribal Chief that the Youngest Mr. MITB is always watching. And y’know what? Between them, Theory would love to cash in on Lesnar after how he treated Theory, but he might just cash in on Roman. Theory got to see just how arrogant Roman is up close! Kayla says Theory does know something about arrogance. Oh ha ha. People don’t like him, but he loves that! Everyone is just looking for someone to knock Roman off his pedestal, and it could be Theory! Theory WILL become a two-time United States Champion after he defeats Bobby Lashley.

And that Last Man Standing match, whoever survives better be ready. Lesnar and Roman are going to beat the hell out of each other all over the arena. They could go into the rafters, the stands, the parking lot, or even on the roof! But that’s besides the point. Roman Reigns is screwed! Either Lesnar beats him or Theory does, and the same way for Lesnar if he does win. Theory leaves, but Mad Cap Moss walks in! Moss says that is a big briefcase, but he bets he can shove all of that down Theory’s throat. Moss would love to try, Will Moss get his chance at shutting Theory up before SummerSlam?

Lacey Evans & Aliyah VS Shayna Baszler & Shotzi Blackheart!

The Model Soldier and #Aliyah316 team up to take on the Queen of Spades and Wild Child, but which duo proves to be the stronger?

SmackDown returns as Lacey makes her entrance. Or at least, we think? Okay, there’s Lacey! Wait, she says she wants a bigger response? She goes backstage again and redoes her entrance. Fans cheer and Lacey still seems dissatisfied. She gets a mic and gets in the ring to say, “Before my opponents come out, I just wanted to take a minute.” Fans are booing as she says she is just disgusted from them. This is the response she gets? That reaction right there? Do they not know who she is? Don’t they know what she’s been through? She knows they do because she poured her heart and soul out on live TV! She did that to help the fans!

And for what? For that reaction? Lacey says it must bother them that they look at a woman like her and they realize how weak they are. They know her struggles and deep down, they know they can’t be half the person she is. The truth hurts, but when Lacey Evans comes out and gets in the ring, she gets a standing ovation! Standing, meaning up on your feet. Fans boo more and Lacey isn’t sure what it is. Are they too weighed down by the pulled pork? That’s what she sees, at least. It makes her sick! The fans are disgusting! Fans chant “YOU SUCK!” and she says no, she is an American Hero! She put her life on the line for the likes of you! But for what?!

Until Lacey gets the respect she deserves, everyone else can go to Hell! Lacey drops the mic, then goes to leave. Aliyah tells her to hold on, they have a match! But then Lacey uses her WOMAN’S RIGHT to knock Aliyah off her feet! Lacey leaves, and there’s no match now. Will Lacey get any respect from anyone acting like this?

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships Contenders Match: The Usos VS Los Lotharios!

Jimmy & Jey are ready to represent for The Bloodline, but will Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo earn themselves an opportunity to represent for their familia? We find out, after the break.

SmackDown returns and the match is already underway as Jimmy CHOPS Carrillo! And CHOPS again! Carrillo wernches an arm to a wristlock, but Jimmy fights up to whip Carrillo away. Jimmy back drops but Carrillo lands on his feet! Garza tags in while Jimmy puts up the finger to the sky, but Carrillo feeds Jimmy to a GAMANGIRI! Jey runs in but is also sent out! Garza trips Jey, tags Carrillo, and they DOUBLE PENALTY KICK at the ropes! The Usos regroup but Los Lotharios build speed, to fake them out! The Usos rush in but Los Lotharios slide out! Garza & Carrillo egg Jimmy & Jey on, and then slide back in as the Usos slide out!

The Usos hurry to the apron but the Lethal Lovers BOOT both of them down! And then OFF COME GARZA’S PANTS! Garza throws the tearaways at the fans, Jimmy rushes in but into an arm-drag! Carrillo KICKS and ROCKS and CHOPS, but Jey tags in before the whip. Jimmy reverses, pop-up SAMOAN DROP! Jimmy SUPERKICKS Garza, Jey covers Carrillo, but Garza breaks it in time! Garza then SUPERKICKS Jimmy down! And then PLANCHAS into a SUPERKICK! Jey is up top but Carrillo goes after him! Jey shoves Carrillo away but Carrillo flips back to land on his feet! Jey SUPERKICKS Carrillo, too!

Tag to Jimmy and Jey drags Carrillo up. ONE AND DONE!! Cover, the Usos win!

Winners: The Usos, by pinfall (DENIES Los Lotharios a title match)

Garza & Carrillo fought hard, as multi-generational wrestlers do, but the Usos are the winners again! Kayla interviews them to congratulate them on tonight’s win, as well as the win at MITB, if they can really say that was a win. What? Well, Kayla says they got away with one. Got away with what?! Well, the footage shows that Montez Ford did get his shoulder up. The ref missed it, so the Street Profits lost on a technicality. So then, the Usos got away with one. What?! Do the Undisputed Champs look like they need to cheat?! Well…

Jimmy says that if that is cheating, if pinning the Profits in the middle of the ring 1-2-3 is cheating, then yeah, they cheated! But check it! That ain’t on the Usos, that’s on the ref. Well, there are rumors that there will be a special guest referee in the tag title rematch for SummerSlam. Oh? That’s cool. Well, if they’re taking volunteers, Jimmy has one in mind. Jimmy does the Superman reload motion to imply Roman. But anyone can count to three. And the Profits will get popped with the One ‘n ‘Done again. That makes them the twos, and #WeTheOnes! Jimmy & Jey are fired up, but will they get lucky again like they did in Vegas?

Undisputed WWE Universal Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Drew McIntyre VS Sheamus w/ The Brawling Brutes!

The Celtic Connection clashes again, but only one can claim that golden ticket to Clash at the Castle! Will McIntyre’s Claymore clobber The Fella once and for all? Or will Sheamus’ Brogue step all over the Scottish Warrior’s hopes of returning to the title?

SmackDown returns and Sheamus makes his entrance, with Ridge Holland and “Butch” Pete Dunne by his side. Ridge has to hold Dunne back and Sheamus gets the mic. “Hold your horses there, fellas. Whoa, bitty!” Sheamus says it is him and McIntyre for the big one. The winner tonight goes on to the Clash at the Castle for a championship match! And Sheamus has McIntyre’s number. The truth of the matter is… Sheamus gets a rasp in his throat? Sheamus needs a drink maybe? He hopes he doesn’t have COVID or something. Sheamus says he has to get tested and can’t compete otherwise. But he says no worries! He has a backup plan!

Tonight, it won’t be THE match, because his buddy, Butch, is foaming at the mouth to get at McIntyre! So McIntyre, no worries, him and Ridge will be ringside if you miss him. “Go get ’em, Butchy!”

Drew McIntyre VS Pete Dunne w/ The Brawling Brutes!

The bell rings, Dunne rushes McIntyre and fires off forearms! But McIntyre clinches to OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! Sheamus distracts McIntyre but backs off as McIntyre swipes at him. McIntyre runs at Dunne but Dunne BOOTS him! Dunne fires off on McIntyre, and jumps on to go after the arm! McIntyre endures the double wristlock, throws body shots, and powers up and out of the hold! GLASGOW KISS! Dunne holds on with the body scissors, but McIntyre drags him up to OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! McIntyre calls for the countdown, but Ridge gets on the apron. McIntyre DECKS Ridge, but runs into a GAMANGIRI from Dunne!

Dunne goes up, leaps, but McIntyre dodges to NECKBREAKER! And kip up! Fans fire up with McIntyre, he aims from the corner, and counts it down! “THREE! TWO! ONE!!” CLAYMORE!! Cover, McIntyre wins!

Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall

But then Ridge attacks! He and McIntyre brawl, FUTURE SHOCK for Ridge the Fridge! Fans fire up and McIntyre is staring down Sheamus! Sheamus storms in, but McIntyre has Angela the sword at the ready! Sheamus backs off and says McIntyre doesn’t have it in him to really swing. McIntyre swings and he cuts the rope!! And the pyro goes off, too! Will McIntyre shred Sheamus to make it crystal clear who gets to Clash at the Castle with the Universal Champion?

My Thoughts:

I want to say this was a good episode, but we all know this could’ve been much better. For one, the main event we just got felt more like a bunch of BS filler. Sheamus faking a COVID concern to delay the contender’s match is so blatantly a Vince McMahon type of move, and I just can’t stand it. McIntyre squashing Dunne was also BS, a match of those two deserves to be much, much better than this. They’ll probably keep doing this so that McIntyre beats Ridge Holland, and then maybe on SummerSlam, we get McIntyre VS Sheamus to name a contender. Then, the first ten minutes of the show was a MITB recap package, then the Bloodline’s entrance, and then Theory standing on stage. Can’t WWE arrange the show better than that?

Roman and Heyman still had a good promo, and if Theory had only done his buzz-by here, it would’ve been fine. Theory’s interview promo later was better, and I like that Moss wants to step to Mr. MITB. They’re going to have a great match, especially as two young stars WWE will rely on, and honestly need, going forward. As for the Usos, if WWE took Los Lotharios more seriously, we could actually have a great feud of wrestling legacies here with Usos VS Garza & Carrillo. But no, Los Lotharios were in a contenders match just to get crushed, and then we had a rather sloppy way for them to set up the Usos VS Profits rematch. And that special referee has got to be Sami Zayn for the story of Honorary Uce to continue.

Viking Raiders of course squash Jinder & Shanky, all because Shanky couldn’t stop partying when a serious threat was in front of him. A bit of a low point for Shanky’s story, as was the New Day storming up on The Viking Raiders just to get bodied all over again. There has to be something Adam Pearce does to make sure New Day VS Viking Raiders actually happens, since we saw Erik & Ivar just beat up Woods & Kofi to throw the match out. Then we can finally get a great match out of them, as we all know they can deliver. Nakamura delivered in a match with Kaiser, though they didn’t outright make this a contenders match. Gunther punishing Kaiser with chops was a great addition to his character, not even NXT/NXT UK Walter did that.

I said last week that the Maximum Male Models debut was a train wreck, and I stand by that. This week’s segment was still just as dumb, but the impact is lessened by seeing it already. They just need to have a match already so we can see what their characters wrestle like. Slightly better was Lacey’s Heel turn happening all because the fans weren’t as excited as she wanted them to be. I was hoping it would’ve been the usual “losing makes the Face snap and turn,” where she and Aliyah lose to Shotzi & Shayna, but just like with MMM, ripping the Band-Aid off is for the best. Lacey is Heel, she can feud with Aliyah or Raquel, then get after Face champion Liv Morgan.

Liv Morgan had a good promo to celebrate her win, but Natty’s promo recycled much of what she said on Raw. Ronda showing up was a bit of a surprise, but she did a good job with her promo. I was also surprised we got Natty VS Ronda, and I was disappointed that Ronda basically squashed Natty while hurt when she struggled with Natty at 100%. And yet, it isn’t just clear that Ronda’s getting the SummerSlam match. Can someone else get in on this story? Like a returning Bayley? Why can’t Bayley get involved, it’s known that she is all healed up.

My Score: 7.9/10

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

18 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.