Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Live Report – 11/7/17 – AJ Styles challenges Jinder Mahal!

Published

6 years ago

November 7, 2017

Steven Mitchell

The Modern Day Maharaja or the Phenomenal One, who moves on to Survivor Series to face The Beast?!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Sami Zayn w/ Kevin Owens VS Kofi Kingston w/ The New Day; Kingston wins.
Randy Orton VS Rusev w/ Aiden English; Orton wins, Rusev is not on Team SmackDown.
Becky Lynch VS James Ellsworth w/ Carmella; Becky wins.
WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championships: The Usos VS Shelton Benjamin & Chad Gable; Benjamin & Gable win by count out, The Usos retain.
WWE Championship: Jinder Mahal w/ The Singh Brothers VS AJ Styles; Styles wins and becomes the new WWE Champion.

PLAY BY PLAY

AJ Styles has the opportunity to become WWE Champion again.

Jinder Mahal may be bigger and stronger, but he’s not The Phenomenal One, and that is AJ Styles! But Mahal says that he “flat out beat up” Styles, to prove he is “the superior champion.” The consequences are to defend the title, but Mahal is alright with that. Styles will be a Phenomenal Loser, Mahal will stay “YOUR WWE Champion”. Who will be the true WWE Champion after a night in Manchester?

Shane McMahon heads to the ring.

The SmackDown Commissioner and Men’s Team Captain is in Manchester, and the fans are Shane O’Mac says “November 19th will mark down in history” the beginning of a new era where Raw can’t call SmackDown “The B Show”, they’ll be THE Show. Two mega brands going at it and it’s gotten personal, with Daniel Bryan’s injury being the major incident. Shane holds Stephanie McMahon and Kurt Angle responsible. For what they did to Bryan, Shane is going to go after Angle, so Angle better be ready. And speaking of Daniel Bryan, he’ll be back next week, because he “resembles what everyone in that locker room has.” You get knocked down but you don’t stay down. Speaking of some tough fighters, let’s bring out some guys who “fired a shot across the bough of Monday Night Raw.” The Manchester crowd knows who he means, it’s The New Day! Awwww~ Manchester~! Don’t you dare be soure, clap for your world famous 4 time champs, and feel, the powah~!Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston and Big E “bleed blue” as they helped bring us new Raw Tag Team Champions. They distracted Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose, The Bar, and all of the Raw Roster by simply appearing in the crowd, and when it all wrapped up, Sheamus & Cesaro were champions instead of The Shield boys. “Made ’em look pretty silly.” Manchester cheers that “New! Day Rocks!” Kofi tells Shane that they didn’t mean for titles to change hands, but that stuff happens when you put Raw #UnderSiege baybyyyy~! And when it comes to the Raw Roster, what’re they gonna do? “Nothing~!” Because when they led that siege, they looked Raw “dead in the eye”, and what happened? “We beat them down!” The New Day is prepared to accept the consequences. And if #Rawtaliation is even attempted, New Day will send them back to Monday. Yes, SmackDown Spirit is strong with The New Day, it was all on a whim, but that’s awesome because… “New! Day Rocks!” Shane hip swivels with them.

But Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn arrive to say otherwise.

“That was the stupidest, most painful thing I’ve ever seen in my life.” Shane, they hate to break it to him, but he’s not cool. And never dance like that again. Wait wait, Sami is saying someone else shouldn’t’ dance? What about Sami’s entrances? Don’t listen to them, Sami. These two are here with important things to say. Shane may have a hard time dealing with losing at Hell in a Cell, but now he’s acting out, just don’t punish SmackDown for his shortcomings. Sami & Kevin could’ve been on Raw, could’ve beat up the entire Raw Roster, but they’re “men of honor.” They do things the right way, and just because that doesn’t jive with the “Shane McMahon Propaganda Machine”, he sets them up to fail. Well, this is the attitude that has kept these two from representing SmackDown. No, it’s because they lost “qualifying” matches! And Shane did nothing to fix the controversy. If Sami or Kevin had done things like that, they’d be suspended, fined, or even fired. And, because Kevin lost to Shinsuke Nakamura. Well, it’s a crime they even had to qualify! They are the top two stars on this roster! So what? What do they need to do? Not entertaining enough? They need to dance like the “puppets”! Whoa… Fans want to see that, but the only puppet here, is that “1930s paper boy, never been to a gym lookin’ ass Sami Zayn!” WHOA! Kevin has his hand so far up Sami’s butt, that every time he brushes his teeth — which isn’t often — Kevin gets a manicure. The New Day is loving their own burn, but so is Manchester. Sami sarcastically laughs it off, but he’ll be laughing harder when Raw beats SmackDown and they only have Shane to blame. Shane says they have no brand loyalty, yet walk around like they own it. Since Sami thinks he’s entitled, he is entitled to a match. Against who? Who who who? Kofi Kingston. And, it’s next.

Sami Zayn w/ Kevin Owens VS Kofi Kingston w/ The New Day!

The bell rings, the two circle, Sami puts Kofi in a corner. Sami honors the ropebreak and gives Kofi plenty of space. The New Day joins in the “Paper Boy!” chants at Sami. Tie up, waistlock but Sami reverses out, Kofi reverses back, Sami rolls and reverses back again. Kofi rolls and flips to reverse back once more, bringing Sami to a knee. Sami pushes back and powers out but the whip is reversed, Sami springboards up and over, arm-drag into arm lock. Kofi works to get up and out, fans rally with the New Day claps, Kofi whips but is shouldered down. Sami speeds things up, Kofi hits him with a back elbow. Sami gets to a corner, Kofi misses his splash, Sami runs in for a monkey flip, Kofi lands on his feet! Woods plays him music to twerk to. Sami swings but misses, dorpkick from Kofi sends him out! Kofi watches as The Best Friends regroup, fans keep up the cheers for New Day. Sami takes his time getting in, Kofi keeps his eyes on him, Sami makes sure he stays back as he enters. THe fans taunt “Where’s the paper?” Kofi loves joining in, but then rushes out to separate the Best Friends. Sami pounces as Kofi reenters the ring, reeling Kofi in for a flipping lariat! Kevin taunts “Who rocks now?!” Sami takes his time stalking Kofi, puts Kofi in a corner, then rains down right hands before going up. Flying crossbody, intercepted by a dropkick from Kofi! Sami regroups with Kevin again as we go picture in picture.

The New Day keeps the fans going, Kevin coaches Sami back up. Kofi comes out to get him, double ax handle. Kofi goes to put Sami in the ring but Kevin distracts, Kofi gets shoved into a post! Sami acts like he didn’t’ do it, the ref continues his ten count. Sami gets Kofi up and in, drags Kofi up for elbows to the shoulder and then a chinlock applied. Sami leans on Kofi to squeeze and grind him, Kofi fights against the hold, The New Day rallies the fans for Kofi. Kofi gets up and fights back, but Saim pulls hair to yank Kofi to the mat. Sami stalks Kofi, throwing hands. Kevin applauds as Sami chops Kofi against the ropes. Sami whips Kofi, Kofi kicks Sami, Kofi runs in a corner but misses the splash again, Saim covers, TWO! Sami is annoyed but he keeps on Kofi at the ropes. Sami scoops Kofi into a pendulum backbreaker, TWO. Sami puts Kofi back in the chinlock, Kofi again endures. Kofi gets up and fights back again, we go single picture as Sami throws Kofi but Kofi rebounds, to then clothesline Sami out of the ring. Sami flounders, Kofi recovers, then bounces to slingshot senton onto Sami!

Sami put back in the ring, Kofi gets on the apron and throws a shoulder in, slingshots over, SOS! TWO! Kofi can’t believe Sami survived that, but he just gets up to call for the finish. Sami gets up, Kofi runs in, Trouble in Paradise misses, Blue Thunder Bomb hits hard! TWO! Kevin is upset, “that was three!” Sami doesn’t let it slow him down, he just targets Kofi from the opposite corner. Sami runs in, but gets Kofi’s swing kicks. Kofi springboards but Sami gose under, wants a suplex but Kofi slips out, standing switches to a snapmare, Kofi dodges to go up and fly! Crossbody hits! Kofi wins! Only for Kevin to come in and attack! The New Day come in to run him and Sami off, The Best Friends are furious as they exit. Will their sense of entitlement ever stop? Or will they get to say “We told you so” after Survivor Series?

Backstage interview with Jinder Mahal.

He is to defend his title tonight, but is still set on defending his honor against Brock Lesnar. How is this match tonight changing his mindset? Mahal was dining with the Manchester elite, and called the appetizer “AJ Styles”, for Brock Lesnar is the “entree.” Styles is a formidable opponent for a mere man, but Mahal is a Maharaja! He will not be disrespected anymore. He makes a meal out of Styles, and “Feasts on the Beast” at Survivor Series. Mahal may be hungry, but so will Lesnar. Will Mahal have his fill? Or has he bitten off more than he can chew?

The Bludgeon Brothers cometh.

“This world is a horrible place.” “We’re here to make it worse.” “No cage can contain us.” “No asylum can understand us.” “And when we’re done…” “Humanity will swell over.” Luke Harper & Erick Rowan are set to carve a path of pain in SmackDown, who will be the lambs to slaughter?

“Please welcome the melodious voice of Aiden English.”

The WWE’s Drama King asks Manchester remain completely silent as he introduces “The Lion of Bulgaria~~~! Who beat the Viper before~~~!” And tonight, promises to do it once more. Raw beware, at Survivor Series, all will declare: IT’S RUSEV DAY~~~!

Randy Orton VS Rusev w/ Aiden English!

The Bulgarian Hero was promised a chance to be on Team SmackDown. Originally it was against AJ Styles, but plans change, so instead Rusev must find a way to defeat The Viper to earn his spot. The bell rings, these familiar foes circle, kick blocked, RKO denied, roundhouse connects! TWO, Rusev tries again, TWO, again, TWO! Rusev is not letting up on Orton, he stomps Orton at the ropes as we go to break.

We return to Rusev having Orton in a chinlock. Fans rally for Orton, but Rusev thrashes even as Orton gets up. Fans now cheer “RUSEV DAY! RUSEV Day!” Orton headbutts Rusev back, then whips, Rusev reverses to windmill kick Orton down, TWO! Rusev tries again, TWO, so Rusev keeps on Orton.

Roode, Nakamura and Shane are watching, Rusev throws in shoulders in a corner. The ref counts and backs Rusev down, Rusev drags Orton out to cover, TWO. Rusev is getting frustrated now, fans duel between the two. Rusev gives Orton elbow drops on the run, covers, TWO. Rusev is further frustrated, he ptus Orton at the ropes to give Rusev Day kicks to Orton’s back. Cover again, TWO, Rusev tries again, TWO. Again, TWO. Rusev is furious now, he wants the win that badly. Rusev cools off, fans cheer and jeer, Rusev takes aim at Orton, RKO!!

Orton wins, no Rusev Day at Survivor Series. But then, who is the fifth man?

James Ellsworth waits outside the WWE Women’s Locker Room.

Tamina Snuka comes out first. Can she please fetch Carmella? She goes back in, he thanks her. Tick tock tick tock, Becky Lynch comes out… Where’s Carmella? That doesn’t matter, worry about her. She thinks she has a chance? She’s a woman, he’s am an, duh. Just don’t get hurt. Oh he’s worried she’ll get hurt? Yeah, because the WWE Women’s Revolution “is a farce.” And if Raw were to raid, Becky would be the first woman to hide behind Ellsworth. The city is Manchester, not Womanchester. Men are superior in jsut about every way, and the ring isn’t for “the softer sex.” He “lets” Carmella compete because it makes her happy. But he’ll be even happier when he proves he’s the “better man.” Ballsy statement. A pity he doesn’t have any.

WWE looks back at #UnderSiege and the aftermath that followed.

Shane McMahon and the SmackDown roster surprised us all when they appeared on Monday Night Raw to ransack and rampage all over the Raw Roster. Then, whether Kurt Angle planned it or not, Daniel Bryan came to Raw and was savagely attacked by the Big Red Machine, Kane! The New Day responded by bringing #UnderSiegePart2, which was really only a “pump fake” to cost Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose their WWE Raw Tag Team Championships. Things have gotten so personal between these two rival brands, what will the aftermath of Survivor Series be?

Becky Lynch VS James Ellsworth w/ Carmella!

Nicknamed “WWE’s Battle of the Sexes”, it isn’t just the Lass Kicker coming out. Charlotte Flair, Naomi, Lana and Tamina Snuka all surround the ring to watch the FABULOUS Princess of Staten Island’s lap dog “Pretty Jimmy Dream” get neutered by #StraightFire. The bell rings, Ellsworth does some push-ups to work on his guns. Doesn’t matter, the fans know “Becky’s gonna kill~ you!” He gets face to face with Becky but taunts, she goes for his arm and he hurries to a rope. Ropebreak honored, Becky dares him to bring it. He takes off his shirt and ties up, waistlock and takedown, Ellsworth feels like he already won. They circle again, Becky gets the waistlock and he throws her off into a wristlock. Facelock, Becky gets up and powers Ellsworth up to the top rope! She lets him go, the fans serenade her with Bayley’s usual song. Ellsworth hops down, but runs right into her kick, and then she whips. He reverses, she goes up and over, keeps the run going, “Come at me, bro!” He ducks her chop, whips, she ducks under him then hops over, and by the time he realizes where she went, she gets him in a clutch cradle, TWO. Majistrol, TWO. Bodyscissors and roll roll roll roll roll, roll roll, roll, they both dizzily stagger about. Becky finds Ellsworth, firemen’s carry, and as if the rolling wasn’t enough, airplane spin! Ellsworth is extra dizzy, so Becky throws him out. Becky dares Ellsworth to return, and he’s thinking he should, too, faced with Tamina and Charlotte. He takes his time getting up and in, then shows the crane kick stance. Only to shove Becky down! Now Becky’s mad. He shoves her again, taunts the other ladies outside, Becky hops up and missile dropkicks him down!

Cover, TWO, Ellsworth gets to a corner. Becky runs in, he dodges, she hits buckles, schoolboy. TWO, so he gets her up to whip her into a corner. Ellsworth gloats again, then tunes up the band. No Chin Music blocked, atomic drop hits Ellsworth in the little Jimmy. HE goes to exit, middle rope is kicked to do the same, then a Becksploder throws him out. Becky lets her teammates and Lana keep Ellsworth from running away. A ring count gets high before he’s forced back in, he begs for mercy. He kisses Becky’s hands, and shakes them, then hags, she still puts him in the Disarm-her. Er, Disarm-Him. He taps, she wins, The Captain is on fire!

Carmella comes in to trash talk with Becky, but she FABULOUS KICKS Jimmy!

The fans love that! Ms. Money in the Bank doesn’t need a mutt like him, she’s got her briefcase to be her best friend. Will SmackDown’s team of women defeat Raw’s with this level of unity?

Shane McMahon talks with Charlotte.

Did she see Angle’s face when The New Day invaded? Yes, and she assures him the SmackDown women will be ready for #Rawtaliation. Natalya walks in, apologizes for interrupting. But she’s pretty sure she knows what Shane wants. She accepts. Survivor Series will not only be Natty proving herself as the best WWE Women’s Champion, but she will also gladly take Charlotte’s place on the team. That’s not at all what he was going to say. Natty escaped Hell in a Cell using a chair. That didn’t sit well with management, so next week, Natalya will defend that SmackDown Women’s Championship against Charlotte. The winner faces Alexa Bliss, the loser is on the team. Not fair! HOw many chances does Charlotte get? Apparently one last one. Will the Queen of Harts be dethroned by the Queen of Flair?

WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championships: The Usos VS Shelton Benjamin & Chad Gable!

The Uso Penitentiary has had the SmackDown Tag Team Division #OnLock, but their opponents are #ReadyWilling&Gable to break out and take those titles from them. But they’re just “two chumps thinking they can take these tag titles” and “thinking they can represent the Blue Team at Survivor Series.” Also, it’s American Alpha 2.0. Who is this? “Our next victims.”

And it’s a brawl! Gable & Benjamin are sent out of the ring, the Usos are all fired up as we go picture in picture.

Gable & Benjamin regroup while the Usos sort out which twin starts. We have Benjamin and Jimmy, they brawl at the bell. Benjamin gets the edge, Jimmy is staggered, whipped, but he ducks to chop back. Jimmy runs, Benjamin gives him a back drop. Benjamin tags Gable, double kicks and then an attack on Jey before double knees to Jimmy. Cover, TWO, Gable says “Uce-NO!” Gable gets Jimmy up, stiff forearm rocks him back, then a stiff haymaker, Gable goes for a T-Bone but Jimmy fights out, reverse dragon whip kick! We go single picture as the fans rally. Tag to Jey! Jey rallies on Gable, mule kick to uppercut. He ducks Gable, Samoan Drop slipped out, Benjamin tags in. Samoan Drop hits Gable, then Benjamin slips out of his own to give a spinebuster. Jimmy in, gets Pay Dirt from Benjamin! Jey rolls Benjamin, TWO, then Jey gets dumped out. Benjamin wants to go out, but the ref keeps him back. Gable takes advantage to chop block out Jey’s leg! Gable scrambles under the apron skirt, the ref starts a ring count. This won’t win titles, but Benjamin does make Jey fight back on his own. Jey can’t, Benjamin & Gable win by count out. No titles won in this, but a message was sent: Benjamin & Gable aren’t to be trifled with. Can the Usos make it to Survivor Series to defeat The Bar?

Backstage interview with AJ Styles.

Mahal called Styles the “appetizer”, how does he feel to being overlooked? Mahal needs to learn portion control, and to not take Styles lightly. Everyone wants to become WWE Champion, so Mahal better focus on tonight. People have always underestimated Styles, and Styles always proved them wrong. He works harder and longer than anyone else, so Mahal is going to learn first hand that SmackDown “is the House that AJ Styles Built.” And to steal Mahal’s phrase, Styles will become the Beast Master, too.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, our names are the Singh Brothers.”

And they are the Advocates for the “reigning, defending, undisputed” Modern Day Maharaja, Jinder Mahal~!

WWE Championship: Jinder Mahal w/ The Singh Brothers VS AJ Styles!

This has been a long time coming considering how much The Modern Day Maharaja toots his own horn, as well as has Samir & Sunil toot it for him. Now it’s time to put up or shut up, who will be the man to face The Beast at Survivor Series? The fans are on Styles’ side unanimously from the sound of it. The bell rings, the two circle, tie up, Mahal pushes Styles back to show his physical strength. But then the fans chant “You Can’t Wrestle!” at him. Waistlock from Styles, Mahal gets a ropebreak then gives a dirty back elbow to knock Styles back. Mahal dares Styles to come at him, the fans now say “You’re on Steroids!” Mahal flexes, that doesn’t refute what they said… They tie up, Styles gets a kick in then puts on a headlock, Mahal tries but can’t power out, so he lifts Styles to get leverage, shoves Stylse and they collide shoulders. Styles rolls Mahal up, TWO, crucifix blocked, sunset flip as well, Mahal tosses Styles out! Mahal and the Singh Brothers are confident in the Maharaja’s chances, we go to break.

We return, Styles and Mahal tie up but Mahal kicks low to put on a headlock. Mahal gets the takedown, only the Singh Brothers applaud. Fans rally for Styles, Styles pulls on Mahal’s hair but that doesn’t help him get free. Styles gets himself up to his feet, then fights back against Mahal. Mahal knees low and clubs Styles on the back, runs, Styles hits a dropkick that sends Mahal out! Forearm to Mahal as he tries to reenter, the Singh Brothers trash talk. Styles slingshots over, lands on the apron, Mahal trips him up. Styles staggers away, Mahal rushes him at the barrier but Styles boots back. From the timekeeper’s area, Styles flies, but is caught! Mahal swings him onto the announce table! Mahal drags Styles up and into the ring, then stomps away before springboard knee drops rain down. Mahal grinds a knee into Styles’ chin. Mahal drags Styles up into an armlock. Mahal rams a knee into Styles’ spin, then an elbow into Styles’ head, then another knee into the spine. Back to the arm lock, the fans rally for Styles. Styles feeds off that, Mahal keeps him from getting a ropebreak, but the fans build to a stronger rally and Styles fights out. Styles is thrown down by his hair, the fans boo Mahal. Mahal grins as he gives a big knee drop to Styles’ chest. Mahal dares Styles to get up, just so he can knock Styles down again. Mahal keeps stomping, almost toying with his contender. But one springboard knee too many, Styles gets feet up to kick Mahal away. Styles gets to a corner to recover, Mahal runs in, but misses the splash. Styles is up and throws haymakers, Mahal is on the ropes now. Styles backs up, Phenomenal Blitz! Low running forearm! Mahal and Styles are both down, but Styles kip-ups right to his feet. Big clothesline in a corner, then a suplex, but Mahal blocks with power. Mahal lifts, Styles slips out, Ushigoroshi! TWO! Styles isn’t frustrated, he just gets himself moving again. Styles grabs Mahal, calls for the CLash, but Mahal powers Styles up and over. Sunset flip, and kicks to Mahal’s chest. Mahal blocks one, throws Styles down, but then Mahal’s boot is countered into a takedown and stacked cover, TWO! Styles gets to a corner, runs out but is tossed by Mahal, cover, TWO! Mahal and the Singh Brothers are frustrated, the champion is running out of ideas. The fans cheer for Styles, Mahal lifts him up to the top rope, and then climbs up to join him. Fans boo and jeer, but Styles slips down to trip up Mahal! Styles rolls Mahal, Calf Crusher! Mahal endures, reaches back and rams Styles’ head into the mat. But Styles holds on! Ropebreak for Mahal, Styles lets him go. BOth men are slow to getting up, Styles is shoved away but another Phenomenal Blitz, countered but a clubbing lariat! Cover, TWO! Mahal glares as he stalks Styles, Mahal lifts Styles up top again. Mahal climbs up, prepares the superplex but Styles slips down again, Mahal grabs him and puts him back up in one motion. Styles fights back, tornado DDT denied, but then Styles dumps Mahal out of the ring. Styles takes aim, slingshot forearm topples Mahal over!

Styles gets Mahal up and in the ring, where it has to be decided. Styles gets on the apron as the Singh Brothers coach Mahal. Styles aims, springboard, 450! Can’t cover, the Singhs drag Mahal out! The fans say to get those two out of here, Styles chases and tackles one of them down! Then he jumps and takes out the other! Styles has the fans all fired up, Mahal is in the ring, sliding knee to take out the first Singh. Mahal tries to pounce, Styles knocks him back, Phenomenal- KARAS!! Mahal crawls, covers, ROPEBREAK!

Mahal is furious but the fans are loving it! Mahal wants to finish it, fans boo. Mahal brings Styles up, prepares something on the top rope but with Styles backwards now. Mahal climbs up, puts on the half-nelson, Styles fights out of that! Styles adjusts, HOTSHOT! Mahal snaps back, Styles gets on the apron and takes aim… Springboard, PHENOMENAL FOREARM!! STYLES WINS!! We have a NEW WWE Champion, and he is Phenomenal!

The Maharaja’s reign has ended, can Styles conquer the conqueror? Mahal punishes the Singh Brothers for this failure, what will the Maharaja do now that he’s no longer doing anything at Survivor Series?

My Thoughts:

Another crazy good night of WWE in the UK, even if people were talking about it in real-time online because WWE couldn’t help but give away the headline of a new champion crowned, emphasis on how it was singular. That aside, this was all great build towards Survivor Series, great twists and turns to really get some hype going for the PPV. Good opening where Shane congratulates and compliments New Day for pulling off the invasion/screw job on Raw, which smoothly shifted into Zayn VS Kingston, a good opening match. Was hoping for Sami & Kevin VS The New Day but that’ll be next week for the go-home, and logically there was no #Rawtaliation tonight because everyone can guess it would be led by The Shield in full wanting revenge on New Day. Tonight wouldn’t work, can’t have such a big moment like #Rawtaliation happen to start a show, and Roman Reigns was already announced to be back next week, so the timing is better. Shield VS New Day in a Six Man Tag is going to be great, I kinda hope it’ll be Tornado Tag to truly make up for not getting the Shield in full at TLC. Rusev VS Orton again was an alright way for Rusev to not be on the SmackDown Men’s Team, since it would be a waste to give us first-time-ever matches like Rusev VS Roode or Rusev VS Nakamura for nothing. This does make everyone wonder who SmackDown’s fifth man will be out of the talent left to choose from, and they only have next week left to announce it, will the announcement live up to the hype?

James Ellsworth really hammed up being a misogynist tonight to get cheap heat. And everyone knew he was going to lose to Becky Lynch, mostly because he’s James Ellsworth and she’s Becky Lynch. This was mostly a moment to unite the SmackDown Women’s Team as even Carmella appears sick and tired of Ellsworth’s ego. And Natty’s ego just got shot down, she might not even be the champion after next week as Charlotte gets a chance in Charlotte, NC. I wouldn’t mind seeing Charlotte win so that it’ll be her against Alexa Bliss for Champion VS Champion of the two women (so far) to have been both Raw and SmackDown Women’s Champions in their careers. And though Sin Cara got injured at a house show, SmackDown seems to still have Corbin VS Sin Cara 4 as a US Championship match next week. That must mean the injury wasn’t as bad as it looked and he’ll be just fine, but I still don’t see Sin Cara taking that title just yet, to allow Corbin and Miz to settle their war of words in the ring. Did not see Usos retaining their titles the way they did, Gable could’ve legitimately hurt Jey there. Maybe what Gable & Benjamin are plotting is to force the Usos to vacate the titles so that it won’t be about beating the top team but the bottom teams to get the gold. And though it was easy to tell Styles won the title from the vague spoilers given, it was still great to see it as Styles is the first to defy the numbers game and finally defeat Mahal clean. I also liked the detail of Mahal knocking out a Singh Brother in frustration. Styles VS Lesnar is going to be great, and now will actually make for a match Heyman might take seriously, which we’ll likely hear about Monday.

My Score: 8.5/10

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: 5.2.2024

Under Siege is tomorrow! Yeah the card looks pretty awful, but maybe this Go Home will spice things up!

Published

8 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Andrew Balaz

Not gonna mislead anyone here, Under Siege looks nearly as bad as a Steven Segal film by the same name. Lots of useless tag matches, only really the X Division title to care about. It reminds me of a “Road to” show that New Japan does. Bunch of worthless matches with a few story wrinkles but entirely skippable.

Hopefully something crazy happens or the show is good enough to cover the bad card. But let’s hope something happens tonight to maybe create some reason to watch.

.@TheSamiCallihan debuts the first episode of #DMTV! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/OWrTeBtRZ6

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

Ratings:

Mustafa Ali vs Chris Bey w/Ace Austin: Ali wins via 450 – **
Dani Luna w/Jody Threat vs Alisha Edwards w/Masha Slamovich: Lish wins via Russian Death Device – ** 1/4
Hammerstone vs Cody Deaner: Hammerstone wins via Torture Rack – *
#1 Contender Match: Ace Austin w/Chris Bey vs Trey Miguel w/Zachary Wentz: Ace wins via The Fold – ***
TNA Knockouts Championship: Jordynne Grace (c) vs Miyu Yamashita: Grace retains via Juggernaut Driver – *** 1/2

Results:

Mustafa Ali vs Chris Bey w/Ace Austin

Ali with a simple Headlock takeover, Bey fights back up and tries to create something with a rope run; but Ali gets the best of things with a Back Elbow. Ali gets cocky as Bey retreats to the corner, Bey turns things around quickly, lands the 10 Count Punches in the corner, Ali tries to fight back but Bey snaps off a quick DDT for a near fall. As Bey goes to continue the offense, Ali Drop Toe Holds Bey into the ropes neck first. Ali again, demonstrating some of the worst in-ring trash talk, Bey turns things around since Ali is running his mouth too much. Ali gets set in the Tree of Woe, Bey goes across to another corner and does a Coast to Coast Elbow Drop as Ali tries to sit up. Honestly, stupid looking since its obviously too coordinated. No one would stay half sat up just to eat an elbow.

While the move looked cool, I now care significantly less about what’s going on. Illogical spots just because “they’re cool”, should not be rewarded. Bey controls the match after the stupid spot, hits his Corner Uppercut Hip Attack, Ali tries to duck a few moves and create something but eats a Spinebuster for 2. Art of Finesse attempt, but Ali shoves him to the outside. Working back inside Ali goes for his Rolling Neckbreaker but Bey connects with a Roundhouse Kick to stop Ali in his tracks. Fighting Spirit spot, they run into the ropes, Ali has a bad Double Leg takedown that he tries to turn into a Cradle with feet on the ropes, but Ace pushes the feet off.

As security starts to move on Ace, Ali hits a Suicida, then Bey connects on a Tope con Hilo. Bey starts rocking Ali, hits the Kudome Valentine but Ali manages to pull himself under the bottom rope just enough to avoid losing. Bey climbs the corner, Ali German Suplexes Bey to the apron, Ali goes for the 450, misses, Bey goes to finish the match but the security get involved again, hit Bey with the flag and then Ali lands the 450 for the win.

I liked when the Security Guards were window dressing instead of mooks to cheat with. This just makes the matches dumber and significantly less interesting, especially when its nameless mooks and its not even a talent getting heat.

Dani Luna w/Jody Threat vs Alisha Edwards w/Masha Slamovich

Dani starts strong and fast, forearm shots, lariats and a quick near fall sends Alisha retreating to the ropes to get some advice from Masha. Dani goes to attack Lish, Lish with a Drop Toe Hold, Masha takes advantage of the distracted ref and Lish hits a Satellite DDT and then taunts entirely too much. As Lish talks too much, Dani stands up and starts beating the hell out of Lish, Suplex into the rope assisted Blue Thunder Bomb. Dani goes for the Luna Landing, but Masha climbs on the apron, distraction happens, then Lish goes after Jody and the ref stays distracted with Lish. Masha slides into the ring, Roundhouse Kick into the Russian Death Device and Lish turns around for the win!

Sami’s little segment is aptly named DMTv since it feels like a weird hallucination or trip with the way he does stuff.

Hammerstone vs Cody Deaner

Am I supposed to care about this? Hammerstone looks like he’s chiseled out of granite and Deaner looks like he’s fished out of a trailer park. Hammerstone says a lot of how I feel that the Deaner schtick is pathetic. Deaner says he’s given the power to add a stipulation, Hammer says Arm Wrestling Match, Deaner wants a Sin City Street Fight. So we know what the crowd will pick. Christ this is so carny even Court Bauer blushed.

Deaner bonks Hammer with the mic, low dropkick, goes to grab a trash can lid and hits Hammer…but it just pisses off Captain Hammer. Stomps a mudhole in him, Irish Whip into a Back Elbow and Hammer deposits him to the outside to utilize the gimmick I would assume. This is going on much longer than it should, Deaner finds a chair, clocks Hammer once, goes for Twice, but this isn’t Kpop; so Hammer says no and hits him with a Backbreaker. Then Hammer hits him with a chairshot, 10 Count Punches in the corner, Sack of Shit, Deaner goes for the Ricky Morton lean against the ropes and sell to the crowd spot, but Hammer leans into him and starts using the chair again.

Deaner does his nerd Hulk Up, tries to call for a Body Slam but Hammer doesn’t move and drops the dweeb down. Deaner is back to the begging the crowd Ricky Morton spot…but the crowd doesn’t care since Deaner is a jabroni. Hammer tosses Deaner like a pizza ribs first into the back of the chair and just takes a few moments to revel in his handwork. Deaner fights back, lands a few right hands, tries to call for the Body Slam again like an idiot, gets Hammer half way and falls over so Hammer just rains down punches (can we end this waste of time please). Hellavator, I mean Nightmare Pendulum but Deaner floats over and lands the Scoop Slam onto the steel chair for only 2.

The crowd starts chanting for table, so of course Deaner obliges…this is going on so damn long. Hammer no sells the forearm, Vertical Suplex, goozle, and then Hammer Chokeslams Deaner through the table and calls to for the Torture Rack. Deaner is Rack’d and dead. ‘Bout damn time.

Like a Torpedo, Something is there…

Trent The Seventh and Ball Of Speed, alongside Broken Matt Hardy, are geared up to render The System obsolete tomorrow night at #TNAUnderSiege! pic.twitter.com/laEOlXayIc

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

I’m mad at myself that I popped for Ball of Speed. I’m not even sure why, but I like it.

"Can you please get fired?"

.@joehendry's live apology transformed into a new hit about @AJFrancis410! The "apology" song took things HIGHER than ever! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/6P7pDFbK3p

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

If I’ve said it once I’ve said it at least 3 dozen times, Joe Hendry is a treasure. Starting with a medley of the insult songs to lead into the Creed parody is genius. Odd apology, but I respect it. “Can you please get fired…”, such a great song.

#1 Contender Match: Ace Austin w/Chris Bey vs Trey Miguel w/Zachary Wentz

Typical Junior style start with counters and some chain wrestling and then a quick tension spot where Trey slaps Ace and then they fire off on each other for a few seconds before they get broken up because its just a shmoz. Trey baits Ace to the outside, Up and Over but Ace lands on the apron and then Wentz picks the ankle as Trey feigns injury to distract the referee. Back Rake back into the ring and just insulting Knife Edge Chops at a deliberate pace. Commercial break happens and Trey is still in charge. Ace shoots the Double and turns it into a Jacknife Cradle for 2 but Ace is still visibly hobbled.

Trey tries to keep Ace grounded but he tries to fire up and Trey finds different ways to keep Ace grounded including a Running Bodyscissors into Full Mount. Kick combination rush from Trey as he goes for the Asai Moonsault to punctuate it but Ace gets the knees up. Short range Knee Strike, Click Click Boom, Corner Splash Seated Lariat spot into a Triangle Kick for 2! Ace looks to set up The Fold, Wentz distracts, Trey grabs tights! But Ace kicks out! Trey with the Backflip Back of the Head Dropkick. Bey levels Wentz and Trey is talking shit to the fans, Ace goes for the Crucifix Pin, but kicks out at 2.

Jackie Bryant Headlock Kick from Trey, but Ace blocks it. Triangle Kick misses, Ace tries to jump on him but misses, Cheeky Nandos, then Trey heads up but Ace cuts him off. They struggle on the top rope, Trey Bell Claps Ace, Ace tries to duck but Trey turns it into the Sunset Flip, locomotion float away, Ace Face Stomp into The Fold! Ace wins!

.@TheEricYoung and @Walking_Weapon make their intentions clear: they're walking into #TNAUnderSiege ready to take down @SteveMaclin and @FrankieKazarian! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/idI78rvsYJ

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

The Bald Bearded Canadians, good ole team BBC…wait…

TNA Knockouts Championship: Jordynne Grace (c) vs Miyu Yamashita

They start off respectfully, which is what you expect since Miyu is well respected in this generation. A few Headlock Takeovers, Shoulder Blocks and finally Miyu drops Jordynne with a Switchblade Kick. Miyu goes to follow up, but Jordynne catches the kick and T-Bone Suplex gives Jordynne a near fall. Juggernaut Driver early, but Miyu counters, rams Jordynne into the corner, Triangle Kick from Miyu for 2! Cravat into Knee Strikes and then a PK to the spine keeps Miyu in control. Miyu lets Jordynne up and they trade strikes a bit, Jordynne’s arms prove to be a little stronger than Miyu’s legs, takes out the legs and then the Jackhammer on the floor from Jordynne!

Jordynne tries to roll Miyu back in, but Miyu continues to roll out to buy some space, Jordynne goes for a dive and eats a foot. Miyu looks for an Apron Death Valley Driver, Jordynne fights it a while but Miyu eventually gets her over and down on the apron for 2. Miyu with a Headlock Takeover, but both ties the other one up and the ropes save the awkward but effective exchange. Strike exchange number 2. Miyu no sells a few Scoop Slams and lands Round Kicks. Spinning Backfist and Round Kick connect simultaneously for both women to drop.

Jordynne charges, Pink Striker tries to block with the front kick, but Jordynne plows through with a Back Elbow. Kinniku Buster attempt but Miyu knows how to get away from that and fights off with Knee Strikes, Jordynne is rocked but fights back up and Avalanche Back Body Drop for 2! Jordynne no sells a Roundhouse Kick, Miyu no sells a Lariat then another kick from Miyu and a Back Kick to the face for 2. Skull Kick attempt, blocked, Juggernaut Driver out of nowhere to retain!

Overall Score: 6.25/10

The second half of the show was pretty damn good, but God was the first half useless. Hammerstone and Deaner went on far too long, that was dumb, it looked dumb, I felt dumb watching it. Ali’s match was garbage with the stupid spot monkey indie garbage spot. If I want to watch wrestling that makes less sense than Chinese Dramas with Hindi subtitles, I’ll watch AEW and have a stroke.

Thankfully, Joe Hendry got a good chunk of time, the Trey and Ace match was pretty good and overlooking the stupid run in after match stuff, the Knockouts match itself was pretty damn good. So the new bookers have really consistently done this stuff, where there’s a ton of overbooked stupidity, but they sprinkle in enough okay stuff to make me not completely lose faith. OH – and we do get Kushida versus Gresham tomorrow, so at least that strengthens the lackluster card.

Lets see if they ever figure out how to really book, or if they eventually go full TNA 2015.

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

Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (5/2/24)

The Queen is chasing the crown!

Published

11 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Steven Mitchell

Will the One and Only become the #1 contender?

Queen Aminata wants after Athena and the ROH Women’s World Championship, but she will still earn her way to a shot, starting with a match tonight!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

The Infantry VS The Outrunners; The Infantry wins.
Nyla Rose VS Camron Branae; Nyla wins.
ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Grounds: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Qrown; The Kingdom wins and denies The Qrown a title match.
Toa Liona VS Jimmy Wild; Liona wins.
Six Man Tag: The Dark Order VS Adam Priest, Zicky Dice & Sean Maluta; The Dark Order wins.
Aaron Solo VS Jon Cruz; Solo wins.
Queen Aminata VS Robyn Renegade; Aminata wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

The Infantry VS The Outrunners!

Captain Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo have had it with Turbo Floyd & Truth Magnum! It’s one thing to use the same finishing move and rename it, but then The Outrunners’ new gear is camouflage, and they start using the Infantry’s catchphrases! Will Turbo & Truth get sent to Boot Camp? Or will Dean & Bravo be sent into Miami Overdrive?

Wait a minute, wait a minute. Who is this accompanying The Outrunners? Lazer Linda? So now they’re copying Infantry in having a female team member? Trish Adora steps into the ring to get a good look at Linda. Linda flexes on Adora, so Adora gives her a LARIAT TUBMAN! The Outrunners are upset but then Dean & Bravo storm up to throw hands! The ref reprimands but The Infantry keep throwing hands. Dean whips Truth and Bravo whips Turbo, but the Outrunners both reverse that. Dean and Bravo both dodge, then they both fake the Outrunners out! Those dropkicks get nothing, and then The Infantry DROPKICK The Outrunners!

The Outrunners bail out, The Infantry fire up and Daily’s Place fires up with them! The ref says they finally need to sort out, so Bravo falls back. Truth flounders in, the bell finally sounds, and Dean arm-drags Turbo around! Dean keeps Turbo from Truth, tags Bravo in, and then Dean wrenches while Bravo hops up. Bravo AX HANDLES Turbo’s arm, then brings him around to wrench. Tag to Dean, he goes up and AX HANDLES! Then the Infantry double whip, and double atomic drop, for a double HIP TOSS! The Infantry now mock The Outrunners, before the double FIST DROP! Turbo flounders away and tags in Truth!

Truth runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Then another DOUBLE FIST DROP! Cover, TWO! Truth stays in this but Dean storms up on him. Turbo distracts the ref, Truth pokes Dean in the eye! Truth blames it on the sunset, then bumps Dean off buckles. Tag to Turbo and the Outrunners mug Dean. Tag back to Truth, he goes up, BACKBREAKER, and then Truth winds up! But Bravo sneaks behind enemy lines to get Dean outta there, Truth’s knee drop turns into an accidental atomic drop! The Infantry then get in and TOSS Turbo! Bravo aims to PLANCHA! Down goes Turbo and the fans fire up again!

Dean brings Truth up, throws hands, then tags in Bravo. Dean scoops Truth, Bravo goes up, and they hit the BACKBREAKER and “Grenade” KNEE DROP! The fans fire up more and Bravo brings Truth up. Truth throws a shot but Bravo hits back. Bravo whips, Truth reverses, but Bravo gets around! Turbo tags in before the O’Conner Roll! Turbo runs up but Bravo dodges him to SUPERKICK! Turbo ends up on ropes, and Bravo ROCKS Truth! Bravo whips, Truth reverses and Turbo BODY SHOTS! Turbo BLASTS Dean, gets Bravo, and sends him into Truth’s BOOTS! Bravo staggers, Turbo CLAWS him on the back!

Tag to Truth and the Outrunners mug Turbo. The fans are torn, but Truth CHOPS Bravo in a corner! Truth spins around while the fans “WOO~!” Truth then storms back up, whips corner to corner, but Bravo reverses. Bravo runs up, but slides under as Truth goes up! Bravo then trips Truth, and asks if he should. The fans say yes, so Bravo YANKS Truth backwards into the POST! Bravo high-fives fans, but then Turbo FLYING AX HANDLES off the apron! Dean protests but there’s nothing he can do as Turbo puts Bravo back in. Truth drags Bravo over, tags Turbo, and Turbo drops an elbow! Cover, TWO!

Turbo drags Bravo up, tags Truth back in, and they mug Bravo with a big kick! Bravo sputters while the Outrunners flex. Truth whips, Bravo sunset flips, but Truth flails! Truth reaches for the literal sunset but Bravo finishes the flip, TWO! Bravo reaches for Dean but Truth trips him up! Tag to Turbo, and he drops down into a CROSSFACE! Bravo endures, fights up, but Turbo tags Truth. The Infantry get Bravo up, but Bravo BOOTS Turbo away! Bravo ELBOWS Truth, then ROCKS Turbo! And repeat! And repeat! Bravo runs, but into the DOUBLE HIP TOSS! The Outrunners shake hands and flex, DOUBLE ELBOW DROP!

Turbo BLASTS Dean, Truth covers, but Dean gets back in to kick it! Truth is upset but he stomps Bravo. Truth whips Bravo to the corner, then he BLASTS Dean again! Truth runs at Bravo but Bravo slips out to the apron! Truth hits buckles, Turbo storms up but Bravo dodges by going back inside! Bravo then slips out the other side, and Truth runs into Turbo! Bravo slingshots in for a STUNNER! The fans fire up as Bravo crawls for his corner, but Turbo grabs a foot! Turbo drags Bravo up, back suplexes, but Bravo lands out! Bravo avoids both Outrunners to hot tag Dean! The fans fire up as The Captain rallies on The Outrunners!

Dean fires haymakers and LARIATS! Then a back drop for Truth! The fans fire up as Dean runs in to give Turbo a FLYING BACK ELBOW! Dean goes corner to corner, blocks Truth’s boots, and puts him in ropes for an ENZIGIRI! Truth flops down, Turbo takes a swing, but Dean slips around to DDT! Dean kips up, the fans fire up, and they join Dean in an “OORAH!” JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, Truth breaks it! Truth TOSSES Dean out, but Bravo runs up! CARLIE CROSSOVER! Down goes Truth, but Turbo CLUBS Bravo! BIG back suplex! But Dean’s up top! FLYING SPLASH! Cover, Truth runs in, but Dean moves! The AX HANDLE hits Turbo!

Truth panics and apologizes, but then sees Dean! Truth wants mercy, but then he goes to poke eyes! Dean blocks those, bends those fingers, but Turbo CLUBS Dean down! The Outrunners shift into gear, MIAMI OVER- NO, Dean slips around and the BOOT hits Truth! Tag to Bravo and they get Turbo, for BOOT CAMP! Cover, Infantry wins!

Winners: The Infantry, by pinfall

Often imitated, never duplicated! The one, true Russian Leg Sweep Boot combo shines through, and that’s no cap! Dean & Bravo finally settle things with Turbo & Truth, will they march forward to settle things with The Undisputed Kingdom next?

Matthew Menard & Angelo Parker speak.

Cool Hand Ange tells Daddy Magic that things have been rather weird lately, to say the least. Not too long ago, Parker was on Rampage, going to make an announcement he told no one about, and the truth is, he was ready to retire. He felt he didn’t have anything left to fight for. Then he got the biggest news of his entire life, he found out he’s gonna be a dad! And if that doesn’t light a fire under your ass, then what does? So now, Ruby Soho is going to be at home, being a mom to their child, and Parker had to think, “What’s next?” Then he realized, there is a hell of a lot to fight for now, isn’t there?

Menard says how ’bout it? Ruby’s at home, nesting. Cool Hand Ange has priorities in order and Menard loves it! And tell ya right now, Menard has a problem with The Undisputed Kingdom. The ROH World Tag Team Champions, right? So how about this? They get the van, they pack it up, and they start taking a road trip! Van, train, airplane, who cares?! They’re heading to a certain place called The Promised Land! So get ready, boys! No doubt! Ever-Rise, 2Point0, X-JAS, will the next titles Menard & Parker go by be ROH World Tag Team Champions?

ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Grounds: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Qrown!

Speaking of, Matt Taven & Mike Bennett are here to defend those titles! Or at least, make teams earn their way to a shot at the titles. Will The Kingdom check another team off the list? Or will Leonis & Maximus Khan be one step away from the crown?

The teams sort out, Bennett starts against Leonis, and the Code of Honor is kept. The bell rings, the fans rally up, and the two circle. They tie up, and the bigger Leonis powers Bennett to the corner. The ref counts, Leonis lets off, but Bennett kicks low! Bennett CHOPS, then brings Leonis around to ROCK him! Bennett stomps and CHOPS Leonis, then tags Taven. The Kingdom double whip, dropkick the legs out then Taven ELBOW DROPS! Cover, TWO! Taven throws down hands, stomps Leonis over and over, even at the ropes! Taven CHOKES Leonis, lets off, and the fans cheer as Taven tags Bennett.

Taven CHOPS Leonis, Bennett stomps and CHOPS, then ROCKS him again! And stomps, and ROCKS! Bennett ROCKS Leonis again, talks trash, then tags Taven. Taven CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS! Taven then reels Leonis in, but Leonis throws body shots! Taven CLUBS Leonis down, tags Bennett, and they bring Leonis in. But Leonis powers out, ROCKS Taven, then ROCKS Bennett! Leonis throws haymakers, then an UPPERCUT for Bennett! Then Leonis catches Taven to OVERHEAD SUPLEX him away! Maximus reaches out but Bennett whips Leonis into a BOOT! Bennett FOREARMS, Taven LARIATS! Bennett covers, TWO!

The fans rally and Bennett stomps Leonis. Bennett CHOPS Leonis, tells him to get up, then brings him to a neutral corner. Bennett ROCKS Leonis, brings him over, and tags Taven. Taven fires up Daily’s Place before he swings, but Leonis dodges to CHOP! And CHOP! Taven knees low, tags Bennett, and The Kingdom double whip. Leonis holds ropes, KICKS Bennett, then TOSSES Taven! Bennett kicks Leonis first, then reels him in, but Leonis back drops free! Hot tag to Maximus! Maximus rallies on The Kingdom with big LARIATS! Bennett runs up, Maximus dodges then URENAGES! The fans fire up with Maximus and he brings Bennett up.

But Taven springboards, KICK OF THE KING! Bennett BLASTS Leonis, Taven goes up! HAIL MARY PILEDRIVER!! Cover, The Kingdom wins!

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

Taven & Bennett just showed The Qrown aren’t #NeckStrong enough, and now The Kingdom is moving on. But will they soon cross paths with Menard & Parker?

JD Drake speaks.

“You ever been lost? Lord knows I have. I’ve been lost for the last month. In light of recent events, my brain’s been foggy, I haven’t been able to articulate words, I don’t know whether I’m coming or going. It’s showing up in my in-ring work, it’s showing up in my personal life at home. Hell, it’s showing in my bowling game at home, too. The other night during league, I asked myself, ‘Hey, where do I go from here?'” JD asked the lady cashier for change on $5, he only got back four bills. Three ones, and a $2! Yeah, a real $2, those still exists.

JD says his grandfather recently passed away, February of this year, God rest his soul, would put a $2 in every grandchild’s picture frame. JD once asked why he did that, he said it’s because they’re gonna need to talk to him one day, and this $2 was gonna be the message. Granddad would also say, when times get tough, you’ve got two choices: quit, or tighten your bootstraps up and get back to work. So while the Workhorsmen may not be a thing for the foreseeable future, time for JD to be a workhorse man. The Blue Collar Badass is gonna punch in, knockout, and give ROH a $2 ass kicking. Scrap Metal is ready to scrap, will he turn that $2 into championship gold?

The Iron Savages speak.

Bulk Bronson says, “Underappreciated. Underutilized. Undervalued. We, the Iron Savages, have been parading around like a circus act for an entire year, winning over the hearts of the ROH fans and keeping them all entertained.” Jacked Jameson asks, “Are we in any tournaments?” Bronson & Boulder both say, “No.” Are they on any PPVs? No. And y’know what? No more goofy savages, no more popping the crowd! Boulder says the adoration is not bringing them success. Time for the Iron Savages, yes, the Iron Savages, to live up to their potential! Jameson says frankly, fat morons and skinny idiots don’t deserve their entertainment.

They aren’t changing their game plan, it just means they’re done winning over “Low T losers!” They’re just gonna win. They’re sippin’ sauce, livin’ hoss, and EVERYBODY is going to #TiddyCity! Will these three start tearing their way through the ROH Tag & Trios Divisions until they’re sinking their teeth into titles?

Aaron Solo VS Jon Cruz!

Aaron is tired of riding solo and going nowhere, so in order to get back in the good graces of Johnny TV, he’s gotta get that W back! Or in this case, he just has to get wins period! Will he be able to do that here at Daily’s Place where he became All Elite? Or will Serpentico’s human friend get his own great homecoming win?

Cruz gets the fans fired up as he offers The Code of Honor. Solo takes it, the bell rings, and then Solo kicks low! Solo DECKS Cruz, has him in a corner, and bumps him off buckles. Solo stomps a mudhole in, digs his boots in and laughs, but lets off as the ref counts. Solo brings Cruz up, snap suplexes, then smiles as he soaks up the heat. Cruz flounders, the fans rally, but Solo throws hands. Solo whips, Cruz ducks ‘n’ dodges and RANAS! Solo flounders, Cruz keeps moving and he LARIATS! The fans fire up with Cruz and he brings Solo around. Cruz scoops to POWERSLAM, then fires up as he shakes the ropes!

The fans cheer as Cruz points to a corner. Cruz goes up, aims, and then FROG SPLASH FLOPS as Solo moves! GERMAN SUPLEX! Cruz springs up but Solo gives him the DREAMCAST KICK! Cover, Solo wins!

Winner: Aaron Solo, by pinfall

Solo makes sure Johnny TV saw that! There’s the first win, will he get more and more until he proves he’s TV Ready like Johnny & Taya?

Queen Aminata VS Robyn Renegade!

The One and Only African Woman Wrestler is an uncrowned queen here in ROH, but she is going to fight her way back up to her revenge! Will she be unstoppable as she chases down Athena and Billie Starkz? Or will this Renegade defy Aminata’s authority?

The Code of Honor is kept, the bell rings, and the fans rally for Aminata with “YES, QUEEN!” The two tie up, Aminata headlocks and she grinds Renegade. Renegade brings Aminata down, pops out the back and headlocks in return. Aminata endures, brings Renegade to her knee, and pops out the back to wrench, step over, and twerk attack! The fans cheer but Renegade is frustrated. Aminata hammerlocks, headlocks and hits the takeover. Renegade moves around, fights up, and powers up, only for Aminata to hold on tight. Aminata wrenches, Robyn breaks free and ENZIGIRIS! Then BACKSTABBER!

Aminata crawls, Robyn soaks up the heat and she kicks rocks before she runs up. Aminata puts Renegade on the apron, shoulders in but gets a DOUBLE STOMP for it! Renegade talks trash, kicks Aminata to the floor, then brings her back up to put her in the ring. Renegade brings Aminata up, reels her in, but Aminata turns things into a cradle! TWO, and Aminata runs up to LARIAT! Renegade gets up, Aminata LARIATS again! Renegade swings, but into a spin, snapmare, and PENALTY KICK! Back of the onion bag with that one! Aminata fires the fans up, runs side to side, and she DROPKICKS Renegade through ropes!

Aminata reminds us, she’s the one and only! But then we see Athena & Billie watching this backstage! Athena whispers something to Billie, perhaps some opening or weakness in Aminata’s game. Billie seems to concur while Aminata scuffs Renegade. Cover, TWO! Renegade holds on but Aminata brings her up. Alabama Lift, but Renegade sunset flips and high stacks! TWO, and Renegade swings, but into a wrench and facelock, snap suplex! Emphasis on the snap as Renegade flounders to a corner. The fans fire up and Aminata runs corner to corner, but Renegade ELBOWS back! Renegade runs in, gets around, half nelson FACEBUSTER!

Renegade sits Aminata up, runs and SHOTGUNS her down! Cover, TWO! Aminata is tougher than that but Renegade snarls. The fans taunt Renegade, “ROBYN SUCKS!” Renegade drags Aminata up, fireman’s carries, and swing into the DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Aminata stays in this but clutches her neck and back. Robyn is frustrated, but she drags Aminata up. Robyn DOUBLE CHOPS! Aminata is annoyed, but Robyn pushes her around. Robyn winds up, Aminata BOOTS the lariat, then DOUBLE CHOPS in return! And CHOPS again! And waistlocks, to GERMAN SUPLEX!

Robyn ends up in the corner again, and Aminata runs up, SWEET HIP MUSIC! But Aminata goes side to side to add the BOOT WASH!! Aminata says it is done now! She drags Robyn back up to HEADBUTT, Alabama Lift, and AIR RAID CRASH! Cover, Aminata wins!

Winner: Queen Aminata, by pinfall

Athena & Billie are not happy with that result, they storm off. Aminata is not just ready, she is looking better than ever! Will not even The Fallen Goddess be able to deny The Queen her crown?

My Thoughts:

A very good episode of ROH, mostly because it was under an hour. Yes, I still skipped things but c’mon, it was obvious Nyla was going to win, as were Liona and The Dark Order. Great opener from Infantry VS Outrunners to settle their feud, and I love that the Outrunners went as far as to get a female member of the team to parody Adora, just as I was thinking they would. Great win for Infantry, they’ll definitely get back in the ROH Tag title conversation in time for the next ROH PPV. And very good Proving Ground match, good showing for The Qrown in their first ROH match. But even so, of course The Kingdom was winning.

As such, we got a really good promo from Menard & Parker. I really hope they get a strong showing here in ROH now that they’re teaming together again. And there’s still Maria wanting Griff & Karter going after the titles, there’s needs to be something big in the works for the ROH Tag Division. And really good promo from JD Drake. Granted, this is another case where Tony Khan does something in his booking/running of the company that kinda forces his talent into these worked shoot promos, what with Anthony Henry being released while he’s injured. But JD did a great job referencing that without having to say it, and I hope he gets going in the singles division.

Good promo from The Iron Savages to officially go Heel, but given the unified AEW & ROH Trios champs are also Heels, we aren’t seeing Bronson, Boulder & Jameson holding gold any time soon. Good match from Solo, but I was hoping he’d have to struggle a little longer before he could win and do what Johnny TV dared him to do. And then very good match from Aminata VS Robyn, especially with the detail of Athena & Billie watching. Aminata of course wins, and I would think she skips revenge on Billie to go right to the head of the snake. Aminata VS Athena will be a great match, and really should be the moment Athena passes on the torch as far as being ROH Women’s World Champion.