Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (1/22/18)

All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- 8 Woman Tag: Absolution, Nia Jax & Alicia Fox VS Mickie James, Bayley, Sasha Banks & Asuka; Mickie, Bayley, Sasha & Asuka win.
- WWE Intercontinental Championship: Roman Reigns VS The Miz w/ The Miztourage; The Miz wins and becomes the new WWE IC Champion.
- Bray Wyatt VS WOKEN Hardy; Wyatt wins.
- Titus Worldwide VS Heath Slater & Rhyno; wins.
- The Balor Club VS The Revival; The Balor Club wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
WWE Raw Preshow exclusively on the WWE Network
Your #RAW25 Pre-Show panel is ready… @ReneeYoungWWE @rosenbergradio & @DavidOtunga are looking ahead to an amazing night! pic.twitter.com/wSCLfwCDLR
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Renee Young, David Otunga & New York’s own Peter Rosenberg kick us off on this historic occasion in Barclays, but Jerry “The King” Lawler & Good Ol’ JR are in the Manhattan Center!
Goosebumps. Already.@JRsBBQ & @JerryLawler are LIVE at @TheHammerstein for #RAW25! pic.twitter.com/j2bdYhyRQ9
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The fans chant “Twenty-Five! Twenty-Five!” as WWE promises #Raw25 to be historic, unpredictable and exciting!
Backstage interview with The APA!
……..DAMN! @JCLayfield & #RonSimmons are protecting the backstage area TONIGHT at #RAW25! pic.twitter.com/lvkN4Tl9hL
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
“What is the Raw 25th Anniversary without the APA?” Nothing. JBL & Ron Simmons have been around a long time, protecting people and making cash. Mr. T, Rebecca Romain, and best of all, everyone had to knock on the door regardless of who they are. Should they come back one last night? Simmons wants to show some punk rookies some manners. JBL is onboard, but JBL doesn’t have the keys. Simmons doesn’t either! The APA head out to find the keys, leaving Charly in charge. Is the APA returning for this historic night!?
Bayley speaks.
Sunday may be the Women’s Royal Rumble, but the Huggable One is excited for tonight’s 25th Anniversary of Raw! She is star struck, as she meets Trish Stratus! Bayley grew up watching Trish and Lita as the top two women. Trish thanks Bayley and says she’s proud to see Bayley doing the same. Will Bayley get over being star struck long enough to make an impact going into the Royal Rumble?
The New Day speaks.
Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston & Big E are all ready for #Raw25! The history, the legends, and the moments, just like their moment of becoming the longest reigning W, W, E , Tag, Team, Champions~! Not to mention it has been ten years of Kofi Kingston himself, “baybyyyyyyyyyyyyyy~….!”
Monday Night Raw main show
It's about to be ???#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/M2Kwfy8QXW
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The Manhattan Center starts us off!
The place Monday Night Raw debuted is just one of the sites where this 25th anniversary celebration takes place!
But the Barclays Center is rocking just as hard!
Commentary returns to ringside, and we welcome both Stephanie and Shane McMahon in the ring.
What a way to kick off #RAW25…with #RAW Commissioner @StephMcMahon and #SDLive Commissioner @shanemcmahon! pic.twitter.com/RG1pp35T2B
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Commissioners of Raw and SmackDown stand together and give a shout out to Brooklyn! The McMahons thank the various WWE superstars that have made this show a success, as well as the “unsung heroes” behind the scenes. They also thank fans young and old for their support. Now to take a quick look back on the 25 glorious years of Monday Night Raw!
Stephanie and Shane thank the fans again, but promise Raw is just getting started. There is one very special person they should thank above all. The one person who had the determination and vision to make Raw a success. This one person is why Stephanie and Shane are even here at all, and yes, they mean the Chairman and Creator of Raw, VINCE MCMAHON!
It wouldn't be #RAW25 without the STRUT!@VinceMcMahon is LIVE on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/IU83FKtHu2
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
“Twenty-five years, that is truly amazing!” Vince hears the “Thank you, Vince!” chants and Stephanie wants Vince to know it was thank you. Well Vince is normally not the kind to pat himself on the back or smell the roses, but tonight, he’s gonna do it all! But before he leaves, Stephanie & Shane have a surprise! This plaque is a gift on behalf of everyone, from Stephanie to Shane to every fan around the world, that commemorates the 25 years of Raw. The fans again chant “Thank you, Vince!” Isn’t it nice? It’s a plaque.
Stop, smell the ???, and enjoy the plaque! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/eJwiKDzKMv
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Yes, a commemorative plaque. That seems a bit cheap. Well, this is Brooklyn. Fans don’t like that. So a bunch of cheapskates gave to “GoFundMe” and only got a plaque? “Yes! Yes!” Plaque is what’s on all your teeth and in your arteries! After all Vince has done and this is what he gets? Vince has one person to thank, and it’s not anyone in his family or in the back! Now Brooklyn calls Vince “Asshole! Asshole!” Stephanie doesn’t need to translate that. Vince thanks himself and only himself! There is not ONE person– GLASS SHATTER!
OOOHHHHHHH HELLLLLLLLL YYEEEEEEAAHHHHHHHHHH!@steveaustinBSR is HERE! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/owfCXlKYR4
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Stone Cold Steve Austin heads right to the ring! The fans go nuts while Austin stands up on the turnbuckles and gives those iconic middle fingers! Vince has Austin calm it down, but the fans are losing their minds. “Don’t encourage him!” Vince sees the look in Austin’s eyes. It has been some time since they’ve both been in the ring. “What?!” Austin looks great, by the way, but Vince admits he’s not. Vince has heart problems, some kind of murmur, not to mention his brittle bones and arthritis. He even lives in a retirement community now. Vince hopes Austin will go easy on a senior citizen. Not only that, but Vince also points out that Shane is still in his prime! Doesn’t he look great? Shane and Austin shake hands, and Austin even raises Shane’s hand. The fans cheer, then the Stunner!
Thanks for comin', @shanemcmahon!#RAW25 @steveaustinBSR pic.twitter.com/rMeGix11Q6
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Vince lets that happen, and even gets Austin those beers. Brooklyn wants that Stunner “One More Time!” Shane can’t take another Stunner. Vince cracks the beers open, and even excuses the splatter on his suit. They drink, then hug, then raise hands, then have another drink and hug, but… “Stun His Ass!” “Yes! Yes!” Vince asks kindly not to, but no dice. STUNNER!
AAAAAAAAAND ANOTHER ONE! STONE COLD STUNNER! STONE COLD STUNNER! STONE COLD STUNNER!#RAW25 @steveaustinBSR pic.twitter.com/K2WAQmuUEv
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Shane manages to stand up, and has himself some beer, before another Stunner! A truly enjoyable start to the night, what other memorable moments happen before Raw is over?
Oh, how we missed you, @steveaustinBSR! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/Tzl1g4uxBu
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
8 Woman Tag: Absolution, Nia Jax & Alicia Fox VS Mickie James, Bayley, Sasha Banks & Asuka!
#RAW25 just got LEGIT, because here comes former #RAW #WomensChampion @SashaBanksWWE! pic.twitter.com/5ILVbCouGd
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The Royal Rumble makes history on Sunday with the inaugural Women’s Royal Rumble match. Which women of Raw will get the last bit of momentum before this momentous occasion?
Nia goes right after Asuka, and it is an eight woman brawl!
WE GOT A BRAWL going on as tensions are HIGH heading into the first-ever Women's #RoyalRumble match! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/YFQ1adFLWS
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The referee tries to restore order but that’s difficult as he’s outnumbered. The teams settle down and regroup, and it is The Empress of Tomorrow to start against Absolution’s Gladiator. The bell rings and Asuka fires off on Sonya Deville! Asuka runs, and hits Sonya with those hips. Sonya is against ropes as Asuka kicks away. She slips out of the ring and regroups with Paige while we go to break.
Raw returns and Mandy goes after Asuka, only to get kick after kick. Mandy reversee a whip but Asuka uses that wipe out Alicia and Sonya with a hip attack!
Watch where you're whipping @WWEAsuka, @WWE_MandyRose… #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/fik1bYAdO4
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Asuka gets Mandy with the pop-up knee strike, then a sliding shining wizard! The fans fire up as Asuka tags in The Boss. They double suplex Mandy, Mandy scrambles to tag Nia! The Brutal Beauty has the fans fired up as she shoves Sasha. Sasha kicks back, kicks low, running knee of her own, TWO. Nia spinebusters Sasha down! She stalks Sasha before flipping her over for a cover, TWO. Nia drags Sasha up and puts her in a corner, Mandy tags in. Mandy stomps a mudhole into Sasha, then tags in Sonya. Absolution works together to mug Sasha with body shots. Tag to Alicia, Ms. Crazy like a Fox gives Sasha the Northern Lights!
What is @AliciaFoxy's ? to the @WWEUniverse for #RAW25? A BEAUTIFUL #NorthernLightsSuplex, of course! pic.twitter.com/IlhLEddYP5
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
TWO! Foxy keeps on Sasha with a chinlock, but fans rally for The Boss. Sasha endures the squeezing and thrashing while Bayley gets fans going stronger. Foxy throws Sasha down then covers, ONE, so it’s back to the chinlock. The fans keep rallying, Sasha gets up while the fans sing for Bayley. Sasha fights and throws Foxy off but Foxy boots her down! Cover, TWO, but Foxy keeps on Sasha with that chinlock. Sasha gets up again and backs Foxy down into a buckle. Foxy throws Sasha down again, then taunts her partners. Mickie rushes Foxy but is kept back, we go to break again.
Raw returns to see Foxy still in control of Sasha. Sasha fights back form a corner, then hops up but Sonya shoves her down! Bayley goes after Sonya, Asuka and Mickie get Mandy and Nia! Alicia gets caught in the Bank Statement!
BANK ON THIS! @SashaBanksWWE just won it for her team of @itsBayleyWWE @MickieJames & @WWEAsuka just six nights before #RoyalRumble! #RAW25 #RumbleForAll pic.twitter.com/bLzrbwynbE
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Alicia taps, Sasha’s team wins! And then Asuka turns on her team to throw them out a la the Rumble! Sasha tries but fails to hit a Bank Statement, Asuka throws her out, too!
MESSAGE SENT by the #EmpressOfTomorrow @WWEAsuka!#RAW25 #RumbleForAll pic.twitter.com/UIQGBZD9Z8
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Will the Empress remain undefeated even after facing 29 other women?
Kurt Angle speaks to a referee in his office.
The Raw General Manager wants tonight to be about celebration, not chaos. With Brock Lesnar in the same ring with Kane and Braun Strowman tonight, Angle wants to keep something from happening. The referee assures Angle things will remain calm. Then Angle is visited by The Coach, Johnathan Coachman!
If one thing's for sure, it's that… @TheCoachrules!#RAW25 @RealKurtAngle pic.twitter.com/OSG00LN85o
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The former GM is honored to be back and see his old friends again. Speaking of, here comes Harvey and The Brooklyn Brawler! And even Teddy Long! The guests don’t stop there, it’s Brother Love! He loves everyone here! Wait, there’s more. It’s the BOOGEYMAN!! And he’s still eating worms… He shares some with Coach before taking his leave. Awkward…
It's that kind of night…#RAW25 @realboogey @TheCoachrules @RealKurtAngle @brawlerreal @TeddyPlayaLong #BrotherLove #HarveyWippleman pic.twitter.com/zpYkFCA0QU
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Who else will surprise us with an appearance tonight?
Raw returns to the Manhattan Center.
The Empire State building glows red for Raw, and The King hopes he gets to see some “puppies” in person. That aside, celebrating Raw wouldn’t be complete about celebrating The Undertaker, who has been here since the original episode. Whether he was alongside Paul Bearer, alongside his Brother of Destruction, Kane, or standing alone against any and all challengers, The Phenom is always iconic. And, he’s here! The fans in the Manhattan Center lose their minds as The Deadman walks out to the ring.
#Undertaker! ????? #Undertaker! ????? #Undertaker! ?????#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/xvzAFXnHtY
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
They give Undertaker a standing ovation as he stands in the center, and then chant his name. Undertaker then speaks, and they fall silent. “The carnage began on this sacred ground of evil, 25 years ago.” And for those 25 years, Undertaker dug holes to bury his foes. For 25 years, Taker would rip legends off their pedestals and throw them down. From Stone Cold to Mick Foley to even his brother Kane, they all “answered to the Reaper.” “They all tried, they all failed.” Undertaker says that on this sacred ground, he declares, “for all of those who have fallen”, it is time to “Rest! In! Peace…!” The Undertaker is cryptic as ever, what do his words here tonight mean for the future?
Where it all began… The #Undertaker walks the sacred ground of Monday Night #RAW once again! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/KYZaerXT3Z
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The APA hang out with Slater & Rhyno.
They also play cards. Read ’em and weep, JBL! Pair of Threes! Full House. The APA win the pot. But Slater has kids! Well their daddy’s broke. A knock on the door, and in comes a wad of cash. From the Million Dollar Man, Ted DeBiase! JBL deals him in, for old times’ sake.
When @MDMTedDiBiase joins your poker game, BUSINESS PICKS UP! #RAW25 @JCLayfield @HeathSlaterOMRB @Rhyno313 pic.twitter.com/054sai18oG
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Raw welcomes back former General Managers!
First, John “People Power” Laurinaitis! Second, current NXT GM William Regal. And the controversial Eric Bischoff! Oh, and a surprise appearance by General Manager of SmackDown, Daniel Bryan!
NOW IT'S A PARTY! YES! YES! YES!#RAW25 @WWEDanielBryan @RealKingRegal @EBischoff @JohnLaurinaitis pic.twitter.com/o5jfUQM27A
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Of course, The Miz ruins Bryan’s time in the spotlight as he comes out to have his time.
The most tense seconds of the night thus far…#RAW25 @mikethemiz @WWEDanielBryan pic.twitter.com/jKgG0hP1p6
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
WWE Intercontinental Championship: Roman Reigns VS The Miz w/ The Miztourage!
BIG. DOG.#RAW25 @WWERomanReigns pic.twitter.com/X69yaq7GKk
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Big Dog has the title in His Yard, but the Hollywood A-Lister wants it back. Which man will make history on this historic night?
We are UNDERWAY for the #ICTitle as @WWERomanReigns defends against the 7-TIME champion @mikethemiz! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/KLGjoyEQIU
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The bell rings, the two circle, and fans duel over whether or not Roman sucks. Roman and Miz tie up, Roman shoves Miz to a corner. Miz wants Roman to stay back while he gathers himself, and the referee obliges. The two circle again, fans continue to be thunderous both ways. Miz slips out of the ring but Roman grabs his hair, so Miz elbows him away. Miz climbs up, jumps, but gets rocked by an uppercut! Roman looms over The Miz as he gets to ropes, then slips outside. Bo Dallas won’t allow the Drive-By, so he takes a right hand! Axel stays back, Miz mises the wrecking ball dropkick, Roman rocks him with another uppercut. Axel distracts this time, Miz boots Roman down. Miz puts Roman into steel steps!
Is @mikethemiz on his way to becoming an 8-TIME #ICChampion?!#RAW25 #ICTitle pic.twitter.com/p37rAmuG9b
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Miztourage bark around Roman as we go to break.
Raw returns to see Miz and Roman corner to corner. Roman rallies with big lariats. He whips but Miz reverses, only to get run over by the leaping lariat. Roman stalks Miz into another corner, and gives those close-range clotheslines. He hits all ten, then runs for the boot! The Miztourage looks worried while the fans are a thunderous mix.
The #Miztourage has a front row seat, and they're not liking what they see!#RAW25 #ICTitle @TheBoDallas @RealCurtisAxel pic.twitter.com/86kwMdEkWH
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Roman takes aim, locks and loads, but The Miz escapes. Roman pursues on the outside, Drive-By! Miz falls down, but Roman keeps eyes on The Miztourage. Roman puts Miz in the ring, takes aim and runs in, only to hit post! Miz uses the ropes for leverage as he rolls Roman up! TWO! Miz recovers, walking off the dropkick while catching his breath. Roman sits up, Miz starts the “It Kicks!”
Look familiar, @WWEDanielBryan? #RAW25 #ICTitle @mikethemiz pic.twitter.com/VKdyh3iaXK
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Miz runs in for the buzzsaw but gets blocked, into a powerbomb! TWO, and Roman is shocked. Miz regroups with The Miztourage while Roman catches his breath. Roman slips out of the ring again, and gives The Miztourage the Drive-By! He throws Axel into the LED apron, and then Bo into the post so hard he goes flying! Roman throws Axel into the timekeeper’s area, but then gets blindsided by Miz’s boot! Miz puts Roman in the ring, hurries for the Finale but Roman throws him off. SUPERMAN PUNCH! Cover, TWO, and Roman is shocked again. Both men slowly stir, and Roman is the first to stand up. The fans cheer and jeer while Roman gets to a corner. Bo returns to anchor Roman, Miz hits his signature corner clothesline! The referee reprimands The Miztourage, then ejects them!
SEE YA BYE, @TheBoDallas & @RealCurtisAxel!#RAW25 #ICTitle pic.twitter.com/INUTeCNBz0
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Miz is devastated, he no longer has his henchmen to help him. Roman rolls him up, TWO, SUPERMNA PUNCH for The Miztourage! SKULL-CRUSHING FINALE!! TWO?! The Miz cannot believe he didn’t steal that win! Brooklyn declares “This is Awesome!” then return to dueling between who likes Roman and who likes Miz. Miz tries for another but Roman powers out with back elbows. Miz staggers, Roman runs in, but into an exposed buckle?! SKULL-CRUSHING FINALE AGAIN! The Miz wins!! He is once again THE Intercontinental Champion! The Miz becomes the second-highest Intercontinental Champion behind only Chris Jericho, can he make this reign last through Wrestlemania?
HE'S DONE IT! Here is your winner…and NEWWWWWW #ICChampion (for the 8TH TIME) @mikethemiz! #RAW25 #ICTitle pic.twitter.com/gaWldJtB1J
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Who knows WHERE that turnbuckle pad went? But it doesn't matter…@mikethemiz has made history by winning the #ICTitle on #RAW25! pic.twitter.com/L6xzwS8WMn
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The APA’s backstage poker game has expanded.
Heath Slater, Rhyno, Ted DeBiase Sr, The Usos, MVP and even Jeff Hardy are back there playing. Slater has Ace High, MVP has even higher. Who else will join this star studded game of cards?
Some more familiar faces have joined the poker game backstage…#RAW25 @JEFFHARDYBRAND @The305MVP @WWEUsos pic.twitter.com/qBLq0EWpLa
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
WWE Presents Christian & The Peep Show!
PEEP SHOW TIME!#RAW25 @Christian4Peeps pic.twitter.com/JWyGm4e64u
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Captain Charisma hears a lot of Peeps in Brooklyn. He misses the WWE Universe. Christian knows about being a tag team champion, and has seen it all. Or so he thought, because tonight’s guests are the Raw Tag Team Champions, who won their first night as a team. His guests are Jason Jordan & Seth Rollins!
Look at the threads…
You might say @WWERollins & @JasonJordanJJ are stylin' and profilin' in the #RAW25 swag! pic.twitter.com/99RyIHO6BH
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The Gold-Blooded Son and The Architect walk to the ring and shake Christian’s hand before taking a seat. Rollins is happy to be here, Jordan takes over, and fans boo. Jordan knows this is about the upcoming title match, but before that he wishes to say it’s an honor. However, the fans drown him out. Jordan continues on, he’s also honored to be in the presence of all those legends. He also thanks the fans for their “continued support”. Jordan also congratulates his father, Kurt Angle, for assembling such amazing talent, despite what the fans think. He wants the fans to give a round of applause to Angle, the fans aren’t playing along. That’s when The Bar decides to come out!
THE BAR has just been raised on the PEEP SHOW…#RAW25 @WWECesaro @WWESheamus pic.twitter.com/uLcl696I8W
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Cesaro & Sheamus speak. “Jordan, Jordan, Jordan.” He needs to slow down, he has it all wrong. Those superstars and legends are here to hang out with Sheamus & Cesaro, because “we ARE the Bar!” Funny enough, those same superstars and legends all expect Cesaro & Sheamus to take back those title belts, and thanked them in advance. Angle doesn’t suck, Jordan sucks! Brooklyn agrees, “You Suck! You Suck!” Rollins tries to keep Jordan calm, but Jordan still starts a fight! Rollins helps him out, then DIVES on Sheamus! Jordan grabs Cesaro, Rollins flies in, but Cesaro evades!
Consider @WWERollins and @JasonJordanJJ ONE-UPPED by #TheBar @WWESheamus & @WWECesaro! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/UposPnYwU9
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Jordan goes down from the flying knee, and Brooklyn celebrates. The Bar grins and gloats on their way out, will they leave Philadelphia with gold?
Backstage interview with Alexa Bliss.
The Goddess knows history is being made on Sunday with the Women’s Rumble. Does Alexa think she’ll still be champion at Wrestlemania to face the winner? Is that an insult? Alexa is champion and Goddess, but here comes a Champion who is also a Queen! Charlotte Flair lets Alexa know that the only reason Alexa is champion is because they’re on separate shows. Charlotte doubts Alexa will make it to ‘Mania. She doesn’t have the size, speed or pedigree, and “to be the woman, you gotta beat the Woman.” Ask the man himself! Ric Flair appears. Alexa is lovely, she is champion now, but he promises his daughter will be the champion every day until Wrestlemania and even after, all the way until she hangs up the robe! WOO~!
#RAW #WomensChampion @AlexaBliss_WWE… meet #SDLive #WomensChampion @MsCharlotte AND @WWE Hall of Famer @RicFlairNatrBoy!#RAW25 #WOOOOOOOOOO! pic.twitter.com/G8p570St40
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The APA’s card game has even more players.
Natalya and even Titus Worldwide~ have joined, and they’re all beating Slater. He has a straight, The Queen of Harts has a Queen of Hearts Royal Flush. Dana Brooke crunches the numbers, Slater’s lost “a lot of money”.
"I crunched the numbers…you lost a LOT of money!" – @DanaBrookeWWE to @HeathSlaterOMRB #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/rufjLPvQB8
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Bray Wyatt VS WOKEN Matt Hardy!
He's here…at @TheHammerstein.#RAW25 @WWEBrayWyatt pic.twitter.com/bURrQvl77v
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
HE IS #WOKEN! @MATTHARDYBRAND is set to go one-on-one with @WWEBrayWyatt at @TheHammerstein LIVE on #RAW25! pic.twitter.com/TGvaLahzgH
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Eater of Worlds comes to the Manhattan Center, but so has the WOKEN WISDOM! The Great War truly begins on #Raw25, who will take this first battle?
The bell rings, Hardy gives forearms and runs, but Bray catches him. Hardy avoids Sister Abigail and rocks Bray to a corner. Clothesline and hammer fists, Hardy then laughs in Bray’s face. Bray shoves Hardy away but misses his clothesline, Hardy gives him a Russian Leg Sweep. Hardy climbs up, fans fire up and cheer “DELETE! DELETE!” as he hist the ax handle. Hardy continues, kicks but Wyatt shoves him away, they run the ropes and Bray runs Hardy over with a body check!
Now THIS is an absolute COLLISION!#RAW25 @WWEBrayWyatt pic.twitter.com/NFHN9dHrjV
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
He laughs while Hardy is dazed and we go to break.
Raw returns to Hardy hitting a jawbreaker on Bray. They both stagger, but Hardy blocks and retaliates with forearms. He “DELETE DELETE DELETE” bumps Bray’s head off buckles, then runs in for a clothesline. Bray denies the bulldog, but Hardy evades in the corner. Bray leans back and Hardy says it’s “WONDERFUL~!” The two stare down, Hardy laughs again. Bray runs out, and into a Side Effect! TWO, but Hardy doesn’t’ stop there. “DELETE! DELETE!” echoes out, Hardy kicks but Bray denies the Twist by putting Hardy against ropes. Bray yanks Hardy into the ropes, then hits Sister Abigail! Bray wins this opening encounter! Will the Face of Fear outlast the WOKEN Wisdom in this Great War?
#WOKEN @MATTHARDYBRAND has officially been introduced to #SisterAbigail, as @WWEBrayWyatt picks up the win at @TheHammerstein! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/pKKZ0M5xLX
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
WWE welcomes back legendary women!
Welcome back to #RAW, ladies!@BellaTwins@TheBarbieBlank@JackieMooreTx@Torrie11@McCoolMichelleL@trishstratuscom@MariaLKanellis@TheTerriRunnels@LilianGarcia@MaryseMizanin pic.twitter.com/0EpHYoN5hB
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The Bella Twins are back, along with Maryse, Kelly Kelly, Lilian Garcia, Jacqueline, Torrie Wilson, Michelle McCool, Terri Runnels, Maria Kanellis, and… Trish Stratus!
IT'S TIME TO ROCK AND ROLL!
Great to see @trishstratuscom BACK on Monday Night #RAW!#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/JulIL9a4oj
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Backstage, Elias encounters CHRIS JERICHO!
.@IAmEliasWWE, meet @IAmJericho! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/pc5JxVH1RQ
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Ayatollah of Rock ‘n’ Rollah has a song for The Drifter. May he borrow the guitar? No. That’s fine, he has his own. Jericho doesn’t want to walk with Elias. Why? He’ll give you the gist. Elias is a stupid idiot who just… Just kidding, no he’s not! Elias made the List! “And you’re stupid scarves, too!”
You thought you were safe, @IAmEliasWWE?
WRONG! YOU JUST MADE THE LIST (and your scarves, too)! #RAW25 @IAmJericho pic.twitter.com/TdjtwIFuc1
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”
#RAW25 WANTS TO WALK WITH @IAmEliasWWE! pic.twitter.com/2qCmKmpHqK
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The Drifter still performs for the Barclays Center despite what just happened. And he still asks “Who Wants to Walk with Elias?!” Twenty-five years and WWE finally got it right with him. And yes, WWE stands for “Walk With Elias”. The Royal Rumble this Sunday will be great, but tonight has celebrities and legends. Elias has a song for tonight, so please silence cell phones, hold applause and shut mouths or he won’t sing. The fans like the sound of that! They call him “Stupid Idiot!” after Jericho. In that case, Elias is gonna leave! The fans also like the sound of that! Elias reconsiders, because he spotted Jimmy Fallon!
Does @jimmyfallon want to WALK with @IAmEliasWWE? Let's find out…#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/eiaVkw72tJ
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
“Hey Jimmy, let me show you how it’s done.” Elias begins playing and fans clap along. “HBK had his time and now he’s done. Stone Cold saw me coming, and decided to run. Undertaker is a decrepit old man, he should buy a ticket to Elias and sit in the stands.” Fans boo. “Chris Jericho is a big phony, and in the past, he’s stuck. As far as The Rock goes, well I gotta say that, Rocky Still Sucks! Now forgive me if I forget any names, Elias is here and he’s changing The Game. John Cena’s not a legend, not like me at all. John’s more like Brooklyn, because he has no balls. It’s a Royal Rumble, and I’m gonna win–” John Cena appears!
MUSIC TO OUR EARS! @JohnCena is LIVE on #RAW25! pic.twitter.com/WhzxqLNyti
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Leader of the CENAtion is here to mixed reaction as always. Even so, Cena appreciates the noise. “And just so you know, Elias, both myself and Brooklyn have balls, because there they are right there.” Yes, Beach Ball Mania made a return, but only for a moment. Elias tells Cena to “shut your damn mouth! No one wants to hear you. They came to hear me!” Brooklyn continues to have mixed reactions. Cena ruined Elias’ moment? “Do something about it.”
The game just changed, @IAmEliasWWE.#RAW25 @JohnCena pic.twitter.com/Ov8TmVKLDP
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Cena prepares to fight, and waits for Elias’ response. Fans want to see this go down, but Elias says “That’s not how this works, John.” Elias doesn’t take orders from Cena nor does he take orders from “these Brooklyn Scumbags.” Elias turns to leave, then goes after Cean! Cena knew it was coming and rallies with his shoulder tackles. He hits the Spin-out Powerbomb, and then raises the hand to say “You Can’t See Me!” Five Knuckle Shuffle, and the fireman’s carry, but Elias slips down for a low blow uppercut! Elias grabs his guitar, takes aim at Cena, and SMASH!
The song of @IAmEliasWWE was just played…across the BACK of @JohnCena! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/MsP8bmo3Sv
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The guitar explodes off of Cena’s back, Brooklyn actually likes that. He then picks Cena up and hits Drift Away! Elias sends a message to Cena and the WWE Universe, will he make Cena #DriftAway for good?
The APA’s poker game is bigger than ever!
The New Day join in, and they serve pancakes. JBL goes all in on this hand! So does everyone else! Slater has a Full House!
"JUST LIKE MY WIFE'S FAVORITE SHOW, BABY… FULL HOUSE!"#RAW25 @HeathSlaterOMRB pic.twitter.com/0I7RkRvEuL
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
How? That has to be cheating! The others protest, JBL shouts everyone to calm down. Simmons agrees, Poker Games aren’t for fighting. If they want to fight, go to the ring! In that case, they will! DeBiase wins this hand, and Simmons has one word to say: “DAMN!”
.@MDMTedDiBiase wins the pot…#RonSimmons says…#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/4Svs6iUFp0
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Mark Henry walks the halls of Barclays Center.
It still ain't easy… GODFATHER'S IN THE HOUSE!#RAW25 @TheMarkHenry pic.twitter.com/4TeVEVHdar
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
The World’s Strongest Man finds The Godfather, and a lovely guest of his, Olivia. Godfather explains that Henry was once known as “Sexual Chocolate”. That was a long time ago. Though, Godfather stayed the same. Her name was Olivia, yes? Yes. Slow down, Henry, this is MRS. Godfather. Things really have changed.
Titus Worldwide VS Heath Slater & Rhyno!
The tensions of the poker game have spilled into the #RAW25 ring as @HeathSlaterOMRB and @Rhyno313 battle @TitusONeilWWE and @ApolloCrews! pic.twitter.com/Q10N51IubB
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Just as The APA suggested, this fight from the poker game spills out into the ring. This match will not only settle their argument, but can also help towards climbing the Raw Tag Team Division ladder!
The bell rings, Titus argues with Rhyno over tagging in Slater. Rhyno chops Titus again and again, Titus puts him in a corner. Titus gives Rhyno a chop, Dana says “That’s what you get for cheating!” Titus gives Rhyno another chop then tags in Apollo Crews. Crews wrenches but Rhyno reverses, then tags in Slater. Slater ax handles the arm then wrenches it more before yanking away. Crews whips Slater but Slater runs him over. Slater whips Crews, Crews reverses, things speed up and Crews drops Slater with a dropkick. Crews dares Slater to come at him, then kicks him low and into a suplex. He holds Slater up there a good, long time before slamming him down. Titus Worldwide~ are in control as we go to break.
Raw returns and now it’s a brawl! Neither team backs down, the ref throws the match out. The Dudley Boys are here! Bubba Ray & D-Von head to the ring! Titus Worldwide, Slater & Rhyno get out of the way, but Bubba wants to take them all on! The fans chant “E C Dub!” while the stars of WWE figure this out. Fans chant “We Want Tables!” as well. Rhyno forces Slater into the ring! He ends up taking the scoop slam, and then D-Von climbs. “WAZZUP!?”
WAZZAAPPPPPPPPP?! ??????#RAW25 @bullyray5150 @TestifyDVon pic.twitter.com/JOQd1QOc0Q
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Flying headbutt! They’re not done here, because Bubba tells D-Von and the fans, “GET THE TABLES!” D-Von has a little help from Rhyno as the table comes out. Bubba sets it up, D-Von grabs Slater, for the 3D!! Will that toughen Slater up?
THIS, @HeathSlaterOMRB, is called a 3D! Welcome to DUDLEYVILLE!#RAW25 @bullyray5150 @TestifyDVon pic.twitter.com/k1NaUQdqjz
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Backstage interview with WWE Champion, AJ Styles.
The Phenomenal One has someone helping him on this interview for the 25th Anniversary of Raw. Charly moves aside for… MEAN GENE OKERLUND! Mean Gene is honored to be here for this. He asks Styles about his 2v1 Handicap Championship match. “Well lemme tell you something, Mean Gene!”
"WELL, LET ME TELL YA SOMETHIN', MEAN GENE!"@WWE Hall of Famer @TheGeneOkerlund is getting the #RoyalRumble report from the @WWE Champion himself, @AJStylesOrg! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/KeUzafREUy
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Styles will defend his title against #Kami, who believe they’re better than Styles and that the #YEPMovement is superior to the #YESMovement. #Kami thinks they’ll be the first ever co-champions. Styles won’t allow it, because Styles knows that in the end, they’ll say “And still WWE Champion, The Phenomenal AJ Styles!”
Degeneration X reunites in the Manhattan Center!
#DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #DX #RAW25 @TripleH @ShawnMichaels pic.twitter.com/9vTzLXFxpe
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
Shawn Michaels and Triple H head to the ring to give out DX glow sticks and even spit water. The fans chant “DX! DX!” before Michaels speaks. What is HBK’s most favorite moment? He can barely remember even 25 minutes ago. But, he does think back and surely, his favorite has to be the one with the giant sausage- We can’t tell that story here. Then how about that Christmas when- No, can’t tell that one, either. Well y’know what? HBK is really annoyed that he used to be the boss of the team, but now HHH is boss of everything. HBK doesn’t get to do things anymore. Even so, go ahead and watch those days on the WWE Network for just $9.99. HHH knows HBK still has it, but the fans still have it, too. The Manhattan Center started it all! The fans lit the spark that started the fire that became the inferno that is the WWE.
"25 years later, WE are here because of YOU!" – @TripleH#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/I9PWJCbhhZ
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
HHH & HBK started something, too, walking out to the ring with Ravishing Rick Rude and the Ninth Wonder of the World, Chyna! DX would do whatever they wanted and say whatever they wanted, and has always been at the forefront. They were here from the first Raw to driving a tank to WCW’s front door and starting the Monday Night Wars, to being here tonight for the 25th Anniversary! This is home. HHH vows that DX will be at the forefront of the next 25 years, starting tonight. “Are you ready?!” Because DX didn’t come alone. “Oh you didn’t know?” The New Age Outlaws are her!
OH, YOU DIDN'T KNOW?!#RAW25 @WWERoadDogg @RealBillyGunn pic.twitter.com/zPBW8UNJ4H
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Road Dog, Jessie James! The Badass, Billy Gunn! But there’s still more, because X-Pac is here!
The #DX ARMY is GROWING! @TheRealXPac is in the HOUSE!#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/SL2VrKpUEj
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
And while this is a DX reunion, they can’t have a Raw celebration without… Razor Ramon, aka Scott Hall! We go to break while the legend makes his way to the ring.
#RAW25 is officially OOZING MACHISMO!@SCOTTHALLNWO is back at @TheHammerstein! pic.twitter.com/9O92WRGuCs
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Raw returns and Hall says “Hey yo!” Everybody knows you can’t have a party without The Bad Guy. Hall was watching the show, and he’s sure everyone agrees, it’s “Too Sweet~!” The Balor Club appears!
Now THIS is TOO SWEET! The #BalorClub is LIVE at @TheHammerstein!#RAW25 @FinnBalor @LukeGallowsWWE @KarlAndersonWWE pic.twitter.com/Z6yqsykg0d
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Finn, Karl & Luke are here and the fans lose their minds. The Balor Club enters the ring and stands across from DX and Razor Ramon while fans chant “Too Sweet! Woop woop!” They all Too Sweet together.
IT'S A TOO SWEET PARTY!#RAW25 #DX #BalorClub pic.twitter.com/Nt1CG8kb1I
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
And if you’re not down with that, “Say Yeah!” The Revival comes out?! Dash Wilder & Scott Dawson head to the ring, because they want their match to start already.
The Balor Club VS The Revival!
The Machine Gun and Director of Chaos are the opponents, but Dash & Dawson don’t wait for a bell before blindsiding them in the ring! Dash stomps away on Anderson before backing off with Dawson. The bell rings and Dash pounces, then tags to Dawson so they can mug Anderson in their corner. Dawson kicks Anderson then whips and runs Anderson over with a back elbow. He mocks the Too Sweet before dropping a legdrop on Anderson. Dawson tags Dash in and bumps Anderson off the knee, then they mug him a bit more before Dash puts on a headlock. Dash grinds Anderson down but Anderson powers out and sends him into buckles. Dash tags Dawson to stop Anderson, but Anderson powers out of a headlock to hit a jumping calf kick. The fans chant “Too Sweet! Woop woop!” Anderson and Dawson tag in Gallows and Dash, Gallows rallies on Dash. Big corner splash, but he has to ditch Dash to boot Dawson down. Roundhouse for Dash, then a tag to Anderson, the Balor Club boys hit Magic Killer! The Balor Club wins! Hall and DX celebrate with this new generation, and give another grop Too Sweet. However, Dawson calls out The Bad Guy. Hall flicks his toothpick, X-Pac hits the X-Factor! Road Dogg gives jabs, Billy gives the Famouser! Dash gets up, to get a Sweet Chin Music and a Pedigree! And everyone turns to Finn, telling him to go up top. In that case, Finn obliges, climbs up and takes aim for… COUP DE GRACE! “And if you’re not down with that, we’ve got two words for ya: SUCK IT!”
TWO WORDS FOR YA from @TheHammerstein!#RAW25 pic.twitter.com/Q5nUW3x8Wl
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle, heads to the ring.
And he takes no chances tonight, he brings out several legends and current superstars to bare witness to this closing segment.
UP NEXT: @RealKurtAngle has paraded a sea of legends and @WWE Superstars to the ring for an epic confrontation between @BrockLesnar @BraunStrowman & @KaneWWE! #RAW25 pic.twitter.com/qyeN2NQemJ
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Angle thanks Brooklyn before recounting that the Universal Championship will be defended in a Triple Threat. He first introduces the Monster Among Men, Braun Strowman.
A monster walks among us… HERE COMES @BraunStrowman!#RAW25 #UniversalTitle pic.twitter.com/edXBW7qQF6
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
Next comes the Big Red Machine, Kane. Current superstars are needed to keep these two apart from each other.
The #BigRedMachine @KaneWWE is on the scene, and tensions are MOUNTING… #RAW25 #UniversalTitle pic.twitter.com/rlM40QYwMj
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
And finally, “Ladies and gentlemen”, Paul Heyman appears to make sure these “fighters” are ready. Of course Heyman introduces the most relevant man in all 25 years of Raw, “the reigning, defending, undisputed Universal Champion, BROCK LESNAR!!”
BUSINESS JUST PICKED UP! #UniversalChampion @BrockLesnar isn't wasting ANY time!#RAW25 #UniversalTitle @HeymanHustle pic.twitter.com/NMfOQmIeZB
— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018
The Beast heads to the ring while the mere mortal superstars exit it. Strowman barrels through Kane to then storm up the ramp and meet Lesnar halfway! Lesnar clubbers Strowman then goes after Kane, to hit an F5! The Beast roars, but Strowman returns. Strowman resists the German Suplex to then clothesline Lesnar out. Strowman pursues Lesnar to then throw him into the barriers. He clears off the announce table and the announcers clear out! Strowman hoists Lesnar up and over, to slam him through the table! The Monster Among Men looms over the Beast before returning to the ring. Will Strowman be the last titan standing at the Royal Rumble?
The #MonsterAmongMen @BraunStrowman stands TALL on #RAW25 and the FINAL #RAW before @WWE #RoyalRumble! pic.twitter.com/RQNWNo2rB8
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) January 23, 2018
My Thoughts:
This was only a pretty good Raw for the 25th Anniversary when it should’ve been great. WWE trying two locations immediately sounded sloppy, but I suppose they did about as good as they could have while still keeping to what they needed to do before the Royal Rumble. First, starting with all the McMahons and Stone Cold was classic and logical because of all the great moments where Austin stuck it to Vince and his family for trying to stick it to him first. The Women’s Division being the first match of the night was fun, but there appeared to be pacing problems with the commercials. We go to a commercial only to return right before the finish of the match, that felt a bit poorly planned. However, having Asuka then turn on her team to remind everyone about the Rumble was great, because she is definitely Raw’s favorite to win. The various moments with legends were also great, and Undertaker’s was most cryptic. It could be a confirmation of his retirement or it could be a confirmation of his return but we won’t know until Wrestlemania creeps closer.
Roman VS Miz was solid stuff in the ring and went as expected, even down to The Miz winning with stealthily underhanded tactics. Of course, Roman being without a title now clears him to face the Universal Champion, Brock Lesnar, at Wrestlemania as is the general theory. It was great to see The Peep Show return while also forwarding The Bar VS Rollins-Jordan just a bit. While the knee strike to Jordan was “inadvertent”, this could be setting up Rollins VS Jordan for them to have something down the line that wraps up at Raw’s Elimination Chamber this year. Wyatt VS WOKEN Hardy was rather sudden but having it at the Manhattan Center was still fine in my opinion. If there was more time, I’m sure there could have been a promo from Wyatt or Hardy about bringing their powers to the birthplace of Raw to frame this match better. Wyatt winning was a nice surprise, and I’m sure they’ll have more matches post-Rumble before finally having something fitting of the BROKEN Universe at Wrestlemania. There were also a lot of dark match/house show moments at the Manhattan Center, which surely made the experience for those fans unique and worth a lot of the wait. Especially when they got the main event match segment where all of DX, Scott Hall and even The Balor Club appeared to join together as Faces to shut up the cocky Revival. Then the closing segment was a bit rushed but still exciting as Strowman stands tall once again. This probably won’t change the plans of Lesnar VS Roman for the title, but it honestly should, as everyone loves Strowman and would be so excited to cheer for him.
My Score: 8/10
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NXT has a contract signing for the TNA Championship?
Joe Hendry and Trick Williams look to settle their score, and if Trick can’t be champion of NXT, then he’ll make himself champion of TNA! But will things stay civil for the contract signing? Or will Hendry have to #WhoopDatTrick?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Oba Femi VS Charlie Dempsey w/ No Quarter Catch Crew; Oba wins.
- Tony D’Angelo VS Wes Lee w/ Tyson Dupont & Tyriek Igwe; Wes wins.
- NXT Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Myles Borne VS Ethan Page; Myles wins and will challenge Oba Femi for the title at Battleground.
- Thea Hail VS Tatum Paxley; Thea wins, by disqualification.
- Stephanie Vaquer & Jordynne Grace VS The Fatal Influence; Vaquer & Grace win.
PLAY BY PLAY
No Quarter Catch Crew is here!
The fans cheer as Myles Borne leads the way for Tavion Heights, Wren Sinclair & Charlie Dempsey. They step into the ring and the fans cheer Myles on as he grabs the mic. “Last week, I shocked the damn world. 25 of the toughest men across NXT, LFG and Evolve, and I was the last man standing. And now, I’m going to Battleground. Now, I probably wasn’t your first pick. Or your second. Maybe not even your third. But that’s okay. I’m used to this. We’ve been dancing around this whole thing for awhile now, but I have a disability.” Fans pretend to be shocked, but Myles says he is partially deaf. It affects his speech, the way he talks, but he’ll tell you this.
Last week, when he eliminated Ethan Page AND Shawn Spears, he heard y’all go crazy! He doesn’t wanna just be known as “The Deaf Kid.” He wants to be judged by his ability, not by a disability. That is what everyone who has a disability wants. So Battleground, he’s the underdog. He’s facing a dominant champion. But he’s fighting for all the kids who are struggling with their own fight. He’ll prove that they, too, can have success! Oba Femi, Myles hopes you’re listening. Last week, they didn’t give Myles a shot, but look what happened. And May 25th, they might not be giving him a shot then either, but he’s ready to shock the world again!
The fans cheer, and Myles says he might be hard of hearing. But at Battleground, Myles will hear Mike Rome say, “AND NEW NXT CHAMPION!” But wait, here comes Ethan Page… All Ego says alright, enough with the sentimental crap. Myles might actually be worse than Ricky Saints with all his pandering to these “basic civilians.” Ethan gave Ricky a reality check, so now he’ll give Myles his. Myles won a battle royal, and won it on a fluke! A legitimate one in a million chance thing actually happened. The fans taunt Ethan with, “Myles Can’t Hear You!” Ethan says that’s probably true, sorry there’s no closed captions in real-life.
Ethan will do Myles a favor and say it slow so Myles can read his lips. “You. Can’t. Beat. Oba! You’re not on his level! You’re not on my level! Better yet, before you go to Battleground and embarrass yourself, I’ve got a better idea for you. You wanna prove to these people and yourself that you actually deserve this opportunity at this championship? Prove it. Prove it! Put the contendership on the line tonight, against me!” The fans boo but Dempsey takes over here. This is the perfect learning opportunity for Myles. Myles put Dempsey up against Oba for some advice, learn how to face Oba. Think about this: What better way to learn than to go toe-to-toe with a former NXT Champion?
Now, this is going to be the perfect fight camp! Iron sharpens iron, as they say. And Myles can silence the doubters, especially his biggest one. Myles says yeah, Charlie’s right. Challenge accepted! Ethan loves it, but here comes Ava first! The NXT General Manage has everyone dial it back. Myles, truthfully, Ava isn’t sure this is the right move. But she also sees how confident he is, and how badly he wants to prove himself. So she will allow it. Ethan Page VS Myles Borne, the contendership on the line! BUT that match is later. Right now, Charlie has some business to handle. Charlie’s match with Oba Femi is right now.
Charlie almost forgot about that. The Ruler makes his way to the ring, will he make an example out of the Son of the Gentleman Villain? Or could Charlie earn himself a title match in his own right?
Oba Femi VS Charlie Dempsey w/ No Quarter Catch Crew!
The bell rings, the two tie up, and Dempsey waistlocks. Oba elbows free, then waistlocks to SLAM Dempsey down! The fans chant, “Oba’s gonna kill~ you!” but Dempsey fights up to his feet. Dempsey wrenches the arm, then facelocks, but Oba powers up to lift Dempsey! Oba puts Dempsey on the apron, the ref counts the ropebreak, and Dempsey slowly lets go. Oba shoves Dempsey down! Tavion is there to catch Dempsey and help him up. NQCC coaches Dempsey up and he storms back in, but NXT goes picture in picture.
Dempsey headlocks, Oba powers up and out, but Dempsey ducks ‘n’ dodges to RAM Oba! Oba stays up so Dempsey runs again. They RAM shoulders, Dempsey runs again, but he slides under Oba to grab a leg! Dempsey wrangles Oba to a HEEL HOOK! Oba endures, grabs at Dempsey, but Dempsey pulls on the leg. Oba crawls back and drags Dempsey along, ROPEBREAK! Dempsey lets go slowly, and Oba CHOPS him! Then CLOBBERS him! Oba looms over Dempsey, but Dempsey KICKS at a leg! Oba grabs Dempsey but Dempsey reels him into an armlock, then omoplata! Oba powers out before Dempsey can crossface!
The two reset, circle, and tie up again. Dempsey waistlocks but Oba fights the lift. Oba wrenches and RAMS shoulders! Oba holds onto Dempsey’s arm to wrench and RAM him again! Dempsey ROCKS Oba with a forearm! And UPPERCUTS! Oba blocks then DECKS Dempsey in return! Oba scoops, but Dempsey slips into a SLEEPER! Oba RAMS Dempsey into the corner, snapmares him down, then covers, TWO! Dempsey stays in this but Oba stays on him with a KNEE to the back! Oba drags Dempsey up, whips, and HIP TOSSES! Oba fires up while Dempsey flounders. NQCC coaches Dempsey but Oba hauls him up.
Dempsey counters the suplex to a cradle! TWO, and Oba BOOTS Dempsey down! Oba huffs ‘n’ puffs, then drags Dempsey up. NXT returns to single picture as Oba whips again. Dempsey KICKS Oba, UPPERCUTS him, then whips. Oba reverses but Dempsey turns hip toss into hip- NO, Oba blocks the throw! But Dempsey HEADBUTTS, then hits a headscissor takedown! Dempsey has the wristlock and headscissors together but Oba endures! The fans rally, Oba kips free, but Dempsey keeps the arm! Dempsey reels Oba into a TRIANGLE HOLD! But Oba deadlifts Dempsey! Dempsey slips into a sunset flip!
Oba stays up, drags Dempsey to his feet, then shoves him for a BACKDROP! Dempsey staggers back up to his feet and into a corner. Oba is on him but Dempsey kicks low! Dempsey wrenches the arm, CHOPS, and repeat! Dempsey wrenches for an ELBOW BREAKER, then he RAMS Oba into buckles! Oba shakes out the arm but Dempsey grabs it! Dempsey brings the arm through ropes and YANKS Oba into buckles! Oba staggers back, Dempsey hurries after a leg, and Dempsey trips Oba! Dempsey then isolates the bad arm and STOMPS it! Oba writhes but Dempsey clamps onto him. Dempsey drags Oba up, but Oba fires elbows!
The fans rally, Oba ELBOWS again, but Dempsey CLUBS Oba! Dempsey facelocks, but Oba fights the underhooks! Oba RAMS Dempsey into buckles! Dempsey KNEES Oba down! Cover, TWO! Dempsey clamps onto the arm again but Oba fights the double wristlock! Oba fights up, NQCC coaches Dempsey, but Oba scoops and SLAMS Dempsey! Oba runs to AX HANDLEÂ but onto knees! Dempsey turns things around, and then he waistlocks to GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Oba survives but Dempsey grabs an arm! Oba fights the armbar so Dempsey shifts to short arm scissor on the other!
Oba endures, fights around, reaches out but then rolls back! High stack, TWO, into a deadlift and FALLING SLAM!! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Oba and Dempsey rise, and Dempsey SLAPS! Oba SLAPS! Dempsey and Oba trade forearms! Oba UPPERCUTS and Dempsey falls, only to get back up! But Oba UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS again! Oba hits an EXPLODER! Oba runs and UPPERCUTS Dempsey! Oba goes corner to corner to UPPERCUT again! And then UPPERCUT again! The fans are thunderous as Oba hoists Dempsey up, SHOTPUT THROW! And then, the FALL FROM GRACE!! Cover, Oba wins!
Winner: Oba Femi, by pinfall
Dempsey got a lot closer than most, but he still failed to topple this mountain of a man. Myles Borne doesn’t shy away, but will Ethan Page steal his golden opportunity later tonight?
Karmen Petrovic and Thea Hail talk backstage.
Karmen appreciates Thea having her back last week and Thea says that’s what friends are for. Jaida Parker was coming in with another hip attack, Thea couldn’t just let it happen. But then they both hear Tatum throwing a fit! Tatum throws her toys all around, knocks her dollhouse over, and she says, “Oh look! The two new best friends!” Tatum says Thea is a “grown ass woman,” yet she can’t do anything alone! And now Tatum has lost everything and everyone! She can’t take this anymore! And yet THEA is the worst! Thea is Karmen’s friend? Well, she’ll just leave her, too! That’s what friends do! They just leave you all alone!
Tatum storms off, no one left to be her friend. What will become of NXT’s resident outcast now?
Ricky Saints finds Ethan Page backstage.
The Absolute sarcastically says, “There he is! Ethan, my man. Wow. You really are selfish, huh? It’s bad enough I live rent free in your head, but now you have to go and ruin Myles’ moment, as well. It seems to me that you really love raining on people’s parades around here, huh?” Ethan says oh yes, he really does. Ethan gets “immense pleasure in taking peoples’ moments from them.” Ethan though Ricky knew that by now. And Ethan says that while he said they’d pick things up later, that’s not now. There’s a title match at Battleground that desperately needs All Ego in it so he can win it.
Then after that, Ethan will restore balance to NXT. So Ricky can go back to playing second fiddle to him. Ethan heads out and Ricky says good luck with that. Will All Ego force us all to accept him as the #1 contender?
Tony D’Angelo VS Wes Lee w/ Tyson Dupont & Tyriek Igwe!
Well speaking of alone and unable to trust people, The Don was betrayed by the Underboss, his Consigliere is MIA and Rizzo has to stay in hiding until things blow over. “The High Ryze” had to go and rub it in, but will Tony make sure to cross them off the list? Or will nothing go right for Tony tonight?
NXT returns and Wes makes his entrance. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Tony SHOVES Wes, but Wes rolls to his feet. Wes nods and sees Tony’s here to fight. They tie up, Wes dodges and ROCKS Tony in the back. Wes headlocks, Tony powers up but can’t power out as Wes holds on tight. Tony blocks the takeover, lifts Wes to a back suplex, but Wes lands on his feet. Wes dodges a haymaker and he taunts Tony. Tony scowls, storms up on Wes, but Wes dodges to fire fast strikes! Wes kicks, BOOTS, then ENZIGIRIS! Tony staggers to a corner while the fans rally. Wes runs in, Tony dodges, but Wes CROSSBODIES! Tony catches Wes!
Tony pops Wes up, body shots him, then fires more hockey scrum punches! Tony TOSSES Wes and the fans fire up! Tony runs to CLOBBER Wes and Wes tumbles to the apron. The fans rally behind Tony as he drags Wes up by his hair. Tony TOSSES Wes back in, then watches Wes flounder to ropes. Tyriek coaches Wes, Tyson jumps onto the apron, but Tony BLASTS Tyson! Then he DECKS Wes! Tony whips but Tyriek grabs Tony’s leg! Wes comes back, Tony gets free to BOOT Wes! Tony tells Wes he is still The Don! Do not disrespect him! Tony then TOSSES Wes out of the ring! Ty & Ty are there to catch Wes!
The fans cheer as Tony goes to the apron, and he CROSSBODIES! Tony topples the whole High Ryze and the fans fire up while NXT goes picture in picture.
Tony leaves Wes behind while the ring count climbs. The High Ryze regroups, talk strategy, and then Ty & Ty surround the ring! The ref reprimands, but then Wes rushes in and KNEES Tony from behind! Tony hits ropes, Wes fires hands, and Tony falls out! Wes builds speed to DIVE, and Tony is sent into the desk! Then Wes BOOTS Tony down, and KICKS him again and again, against the desk! The ref reprimands, Tyriek has Wes back down so he doesn’t get disqualified. Wes calms down and he puts Tony in the ring. Wes goes up the corner, and FROG SPLASHES! Cover, TWO! Tony survives but he clutches his ribs.
Wes clamps onto Tony with a facelock, then rains down fists! Tony sputters back to ropes but Wes is on him. Tony fires body shots, then ROCKS Wes! And ROCKS him again! Wes kicks a leg out, then KICKS the leg before he BUZZSAWS Tony down! Then Wes DOUBLE STOMPS! Tony writhes and flops out of the ring, but Wes clutches his foot. Wes has the ref check him, but this is just so Ty & Ty can mug Tony! The ref misses the mugging, and Tony crawls his way around. Tony rolls into the ring but Wes METEORAS! Cover, TWO! Tony stays in this and Wes grows frustrated. Wes stalks Tony to ropes, then ROCKS him with a right.
Tony goes to a corner but Wes RAMS into him! Wes digs his shoulders in, Tonty CLUBS Wes, and the ref counts. Wes RAMS Tony again and again, then lets off. Wes pulls Tony’s hair while NXT returns to single picture. The fans rally for Tony while Wes talks trash. Wes ROCKS Tony with a right, tells Tony he lost the Family, and then ROCKS Tony again. Wes says Tony lost his title, lost the Family, and now, he’s gonna lose his title as Don. But Tony clamps onto Wes’s neck! Tony is pissed, and he HEADBUTTS Wes again and again! Wes flops out of the ring! Tony storms out and THROWS Wes into his guys!
Tony runs up but Wes dodges, Tony DOUBLE LARIATS Ty & Ty! The fans fire up as Tony chases Wes back into the ring, only for Wes to roll him up! Feet on the ropes! TWO!! SUPERKICK! Wes runs up, but into a clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! The fans rally and Tony fires up! Tony storms up to ROCK Wes! And ROCK him again! And then he LARIATS! And LARIATS! And BELLY2BELLY SUPLEXES! And then GERMAN SUPLEXES! Tony roars and the fans are with him! Tony whips Wes to POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Wes survives but Tony is not stopping! Tony watches Wes rise, then clinches again, SPINE- RANA!
Wes hurries to ROUNDHOUSE! And then handspring, but Tony SPEARS Wes outta the air!! Tony roars, but Stacks talks on the tron! “Hey, T! T! Look familiar? Yeah it does. Of course I know where the Rizzo safehouse is.” What?! Stacks laughs and Tony can only watch in horror, but Wes CARDIAC KICKS Tony down! Cover, WES WINS!
Winner: Wes Lee, by pinfall
Stacks just made sure Tony takes the L, yet Stacks continues to taunt him! They’ve known each other a long time, they’ve put a lot of people in this safehouse. Tony always said to think like a Don. But now Stacks is, so he’s gonna go pay Rizzo a visit. Tony is distraught and hurries to the back! But there’s no way Tony can stop Stacks, so can Tony at least warn his guys on the inside?
OTM speaks.
Lucien Price says, “From the mud we rose. From the dirt and the pain. Not just through stone but through thunder and rain.” Bronco Nima says their struggles and failures aren’t just something you hear about, it’s there. So yeah, it is sink or swim for the entire tag team division. You better be ready, because they ain’t Noah, they ain’t saving no lives! OTM about to put all of N XT under! Every team that can hear them, listen. Once they’re back, it is the end of your games! When and where will NXT be #OutTheMud?
Stephanie Vaquer is here!
The fans fire up for the NXT Women’s Champion as she goes to the ring. Vaquer grabs the mic to say, “Last week, Jordynne became the #1 contender for my NXT Women’s Championship at Battleground.” The fans applaud, and Vaquer says she has much respect for Jordynne’s journey. She was of the top TNA Knockouts. And now, she wants to ascend to the top of NXT. Vaquer takes a moment to think on her words. She uses Española to tell Jordynne that she’s ready, but then she’s interrupted by the Fatal Influence. Fallon Henley has a mic to say, “Gosh, it must be nice to be on top of the world. I mean, everyone and their mom loves Stephani Vaquer. Am I right, guys?”
The fans do cheer, and Fallon says heck, Vaquer’s been on top ever since she got here. Vaquer is truly one of a kid. But see, that’s exactly what will make her downfall that much sweeter. And sure, Vaquer was the historic double champion! She was both NXT Women’s North American and- Jacy Jayne interrupts by saying Vaquer and Fallon must both know how great it is to have that title. Jacy on the other hand can’t relate. But since Vaquer did pin Fallon to win that North American Championship- Fallon interrupts Jacy to say yeah, but she also pinned Giulia to become NXT Women’s Champion. What’s the point, Jacy?
Jacy’s point is that she doesn’t think this (Vaque’s top title reign) lasts much longer. Fallon couldn’t agree more. Jacy says NXT is Fatal Influence’s world! A world Vaquer does not belong in. And just think: How ironic would it be if Fatal Influence took that title off Vaquer? But wait, here comes the Juggernaut! The fans cheer as Grace has her own mic to tell Fatal Influence, “You two can’t even get out of each other’s way. So how are you out here talking about the NXT Women’s Championship? I’m not here to save the day. I’m here to protect MY investment, MY opportunity.” Vaquer says she is no one’s investment.
Jacy & Fallon stir the pot as Jacy says she destroys friendships and flips this division on its head. And Fatal Influence- Fallon says that was the past, Jacy. Yeah, well, what she was getting at, is that Vaquer and Grace have collected stamps on their passports. Sure, awesome, whatever. But Fallon & Jacy were holding things down in NXT. And now, they deserve to be on top. And although they usually don’t like newbies, at least Vaquer has taken her opportunities and made them worth it. Vaquer says yes, Jordynne failed last time, and she’ll fail again. Grace laughs that off and tells Vaquer that a lot of growth can be made in a year.
Grace WILL beat Vaquer at Battleground and become champion. And nothing, especially not Fatal Influence, will stop her. So if she has to take care of those two again tonight, she will. As for Vaquer, Grace will make 100% sure that she makes it to Tampa in one piece. Jacy says it doesn’t matter who makes it through Battleground, because they’ll be ripe for the picking, and Fatal Influence will be the ones to do it. The Toxic Rockstar & Cowgirl take their leave, but will no one take down La Primera?
NQCC regroups backstage.
Myles warms up for his match, but Dempsey is still in rough shape. Dempsey says he’s okay, but Myles says there’s no way he can be ringside for Myles’ match. Dempsey says no, he insists. But then he almost falls over! Myles & Tavion keep him upright, and Myles says Tavion & Wren can help Dempsey to medical, Myles will handle Ethan. Wren says yeah he will! Myles heads to gorilla, will #BabyRandy silence All Ego?
Bubby Ray & The Undertaker are with the LFG finalists.
They tell Zena Sterling and Tyra Mae Steele congratulations on making it this far. They have earned the right to compete this Sunday in the finals of LFG. Not just that, but to compete in the mecca of sports and entertainment, New York City and Madison Square Garden! But only one can win THE NXT contract. Only one of them gets to fight, wrestle, compete, entertain in what is the best women’s division in the entire business. Boss man Taker will surely back Bubba up on this when he says the winner will have a giant bull’s eye the moment that- Izzi Dame & Nikkita Lyons walk over and look the LFG finalists up and down.
Izzi says they’re fighting to see who can make an impact here. Good luck lasting a minute in their locker room. But then Lash Legend walks over and says SKIRRR~! If they think that they’re gonna come for her spot, they’ll both wish they were on a second season of LFG. A few other women come by to see the new girls. Taker says whoever wins on Sunday, they’ve got their work cut out for them. Who will be the inaugural LFG Champion and be right in the mix of NXT?
NXT Media catches up with Tony D.
He tells then to shut up and just get in the car with him. They hurry to the safehouse to help Rizzo, but can they really make it in time?
NXT Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Myles Borne VS Ethan Page!
Clearly being runner-up to “The Deaf Kid” upset All Ego, and now he’s goaded Myles into putting the title opportunity back on the line! Will Myles shut up all the haters and doubters by taking down a former NXT Champion? Or will Ethan swoop right in and snatch away Myles’ golden ticket?
The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and Myles waistlocks. Myles SLAMS Ethan down, facelocks, but Ethan scoots back to a ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Myles lets off, but Ethan ROCKS him with a sucker punch! Ethan headlocks, Myles endures, and Myles powers up and out. Myles drops down, hurdles over, then arm-drags! Myles clamps onto that arm and grinds Ethan down. Myles adds a chinbar but Ethan fights up. Ethan ROCKS Myles, ROCKS him again, then whips. Ethan LARIATS Myles down, CLUBS him, then ROCKS him! Ethan stomps Myles but the fans rally up.
Ethan drags Myles up to ELBOW him in the head! Ethan stands Myles up but Myles fires body shots! Ethan KNEES low, reels Myles in, but Myles suplexes! Myles ROCKS Ethan, UPPERCUTS him, and repeat! Myles UPPERCUTS more, then whips, but Ethan reverses. Ethan ELBOWS Myles down, the fans boo, but Ethan rains down fists! Ethan paces then clamps on a chinlock. Myles endures, the fans rally, and Myles fights up. The fans rally, wrenches around, and hits a BIG back suplex! The fans fire up for Myles, but Ethan is up first to CLOBBER Myles! Ethan clamps on with another chinlock but Myles endures.
Myles fights as the fans rally, and Myles fights to his feet. Ethan hops on as a backpack, but Myles RAMS him into the corner! Ethan holds on, but Myles RAMS him in again! Myles is free, and he ROCKS Ethan! Myles fires body shots and haymakers, then UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! Myles whips, runs in, and SPLASHES! Ethan sputters against the ropes but Myles whips him corner to corner. Ethan reverses, Myles goes up and over, but Ethan BOOTS back! Myles returns and LARIATS Ethan up and out! The fans fire up with Myles while NXT goes picture in picture.
Myles goes out after Ethan, UPPERCUTS him again, then UPPERCUTS him against barriers. Ethan staggers away but Myles pursues. Myles UPPERCUTS again, then pushes Ethan into the ring. Myles storms in but Ethan swings on him! Myles counter punches! Ethan kicks low, whips Myles but Myles reverses! Ethan hits buckles and falls back, but Myles stands him up to UPPERCUT! Ethan flops against ropes and Myles brings him around. Myles whips, Ethan reverses, but Myles BOOTS Ethan! Myles goes up, but Ethan UPPERCUTS! Ethan drags Myles off the corner for a RUNNING POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO!
Myles survives but Ethan stays on him. Ethan grabs the legs to turn Myles over for a BOSTON CRAB! Myles endures, reaches out, and he fights forward. Ethan sits deep, but Myles still fights! ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Ethan lets go at 4, then he stomps Myles around. Ethan soaks up the heat, then stalks Myles to ropes. Myles fires body shots, but Ethan DECKS him! Ethan bumps Myles off buckles, soaks up heat, then drags Myles to his feet. Ethan whips Myles hard into buckles, and Myles falls to the mat. Ethan watches Myles writhe, then he drags Myles into a corner. Ethan ROCKS Myles, hoists him up top, then climbs.
The ref reprimands while NXT returns to single picture. Myles fights against the suplex, but Ethan goes to the very top! SUPER DUPER PLEX! Cover, TWO! Myles stays in this, but Ethan is right on the legs! BOSTON CRAB, but Myles rolls through! Myles BOOTS Ethan, dodges, and SNAP POWERSLAMS! The fans fire up for that #BabyRandy energy! Ethan stands, Myles counter punches, and counter punches, and then he LARIATS! And LARIATS! Myles wrenches to UPPERCUT, then he clinches, OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Myles fires up, the fans fire up, and Myles SPLASHES Ethan in a corner! Then ANGLE SLAM! Cover, TWO!
Ethan survives but Myles stays on him. Myles fireman’s carries, but Ethan fights with elbows! Ethan waistlocks, Myles fires elbows back, but Ethan dodges the haymaker. Myles dodges a haymaker and DROPKICKSÂ but into a FLAPJACK! Ethan covers, TWO! The fans boo but Ethan drags Myles up. Ethan puts Myles in a corner, puts him up top, and then he throws hands. Ethan climbs up, brings Myles onto his shoulder, but Myles fights with body shots! The fans chant for “M K O!” as he shoves Ethan away! FLYING FOREARM! Myles kips up, not the cleanest, but he still shoves Ethan. Ethan avoids the snap powerslam to BOOT!
Ethan reels Myles in, Canadian Rack, but Myles slips free! ANGLE- NO, Ethan slips free, TWISTED- NO, Myles powers out to DROPKICK! Jackknife cover, MYLES WINS!!
Winner: Myles Borne, by pinfall (still #1 Contender to the NXT Championship)
Ethan is absolutely shocked, but he shouldn’t really! Myles shows he was born for this, will he soon pull off the shocker of a lifetime?
Sean Legacy tweets.
The caption reads, “This video is for Je’Von Evans. If you’re not Je’Von Evans, keep scrolling!” The video says, “Man, from the WWE ID to Evolve to being in that battle royal last week, man, I felt that passion last week. That NXT passion I’ve heard so much about. That’s honestly the same energy I’m trying to bring to Evolve every Wednesday night on Tubi. And uh, y’know something? I’m not an NXT superstar. But hell, why not? I’m gonna throw this out there, I’ve got nothing to lose. Je’Von Evans. You know the roads I’m traveling on in the indies right now. You’ve walked in my shoes on this circuit right now.
“So, if you wanna recreate some of that magic we had in the battle royal, Je’Von, it’d be an honor for me. Just lemme know.”
Je’Von watches the video.
The Young OG wonders about Super Sean, but Ashante THEE Adonis says Je’Von doesn’t need to be worried about that “Evolve talent.” Je’Von says Ashante should worry about his pickup lines and less about Je’Von. Ashante says hey, he is THEE Adonis, but the girls call him Papi. The reason is natural, boy. And by the way, didn’t Je’Von main event Stand & Deliver? Then these indie boys don’t deserve his time. Je’Von says Ashante might be cool playing big timer, but Je’Von doesn’t forget where he came from. The indie scene’s got some dawgs, and Super Sean is one of ’em. Ashante says he ain’t trying to hear that.
And Adonisly, he could smoke them both! For real! Oh, really? Ricky Saints hears that and says he’d like to see that. Yeah, he really would. Unlike Ethan Page, Ricky ain’t one to cut somebody down before they get an opportunity. Ricky will talk with Ava, and the winner of Je’Von VS Ashante can see him on the other side of Battleground. Ricky heads out, Ashante says that’s something worthy entertaining. But is the pickup artist only giving the Young OG his chance to go for gold?
Tony’s arrived at the safehouse!
The car pulls up, Tony tells his driver to get the rest of the boys, and then NXT Media follows The Don up tot he doorstep. But Stack sis there to CLUB Tony with a crowbar! “Wrong move, T! As your Underboss, I studied you. I know every move that you’re gonna make. Now look at you! A desperate Don with no family, no best friend, no direction!” Tony takes a swing from the ground, but Stacks throws down fists! Stacks tells Tony to listen. He’s not the only one here with stroke. Stacks humiliated Tony at Stand & Deliver by choice! At Battleground, Stacks finishes The Don and puts an end to the D’Angelo Family once and for all!
Stacks storms off and Tony can only glare after him. What will Stacks do to tear apart what’s left of Tony’s life?
Thea Hail VS Tatum Paxley!
The Grown-Ass Woman is just being herself, as is Powerlifter Paxley, but only one of them seems to have any luck when it comes to friends. Will NXT all be saying #HailYeah?
NXT returns and Tatum makes her entrance. Thea wants Tatum to calm down but the bell rings and Tatum runs up. Thea dodges to waistlock, Tatum switches, but Thea switches back. Tatum ELBOWS Thea, but Thea ROCKS Tatum! Tatum falls back to ropes and Thea asks, “What’d I do to you?!” Tatum shoves Thea, but Thea traps Tatum’s arms! Thea snapmares Tatum to then KICK her down, and STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Thea clamps onto an arm for the FUJIWARA! Tatum rolls Thea, TWO! Tatum avoids the arm-drag, flips Thea over, but Thea arm-drags Tatum anyway! Thea runs up to wheelbarrow, but Tatum KICKS her down!
Thea flounders but Tatum stands her up to fire forearm after forearm! And a HEADBUTT! Thea falls back in a daze while Tatum clutches at her own sides, her emotional pain far worse than the physical. Tatum runs up on Thea, sends her at the corner, but Thea stops the buckle bump. Thea bumps Tatum off buckles, then runs up, only for Tatum to ELBOW her! Tatum runs up, Thea ELBOWS Tatum, and Jaida Parker watches backstage. Tatum comes back to ENZIGIRI Thea down! Cover, TWO! Tatum clamps onto Thea, Thea breaks free, but Tatum avoids the forearm and ENZIGIRIS again! But Thea still rolls Tatum up! TWO!
The fans rally as Thea counter punches Tatum and fires body shots. Thea ROCKS Tatum, ROCKS her again and again, then whips. Tatum grabs ropes and KICKS Thea back! The fans rally and Tatum runs, ROLLING SCISSOR KICK! Cover, TWO!! Thea survives and Tatum is frustrated. Tatum shouts, “Where’re my friends?!” Tatum clamps onto Thea, asks why Thea gets to have friends, but Thea HEADBUTTS her! Tatum comes back, waistlocks, but Thea arm-drags free! Thea then wrenches, ARM BREAKER! Tatum writhes, Thea fires up and CHOPS! CHOPS! And ROCKS! Tatum comes back, Thea dodges and DOUBLE AX HANDLES!
Thea ROCKS Tatum, kicks the legs out, and BASEMENT LARIATS! The fans fire up with Thea and she runs in at the corner. Tatum dodges, hits a KNEE SMASH, then reels Thea in! Suplex, but Thea fights that to a KIMURA!! Tatum flails, reaches out, and manages the ROPEBREAK! Thea lets go at 4, hurries up, and she blocks a kick to reel Tatum in! KIMURA! Tatum rolls Thea up, TWO! SUPERKICK! Thea runs and cartwheels into the underhooks, BUTTERFLY SLAM! KIMURA!! Tatum is trapped, but she CLAWS at Thea’s face!! The ref counts, Tatum doesn’t stop, so the ref disqualifies her!!
Winner: Thea Hail, by disqualification
The ref finally gets Tatum to stop, but then Tatum just HAMMERS away on Thea! She wants Thea’s EYES!! Tatum CLUBS away on Thea, so more refs rush out here to stop this! Tatum’s gone off the deep end! Will anyone ever save Tatum from her own darkness?
Meanwhile, Jaida Parker says Thea is so stupid. This is what happens when you play hero. But then Kelani Jordan walks in asking if anyone’s seen #ZaRuca. Oh, there they are. Jaida says no no no, she is not listening to any of their bitchin’. They’re no better than Thea. Jaida storms off, Kelani has no idea what her problem is, but she focuses back on Zaria. What was with the spear through barriers? Is Zaria feeling threatened? Or is she just jelly that Sol caught Kelani. Sol says sorry, she didn’t know any of that was gonna happen, but jealousy is not what’s going on here. Zaria asks what they’re even talking about.
There is no need to apologize to Kelani. Zaria pinned her fair and square. Bitch all you want, spear through a barrier or not, if they run this back, the result will be the same. Then let’s run it back next week! Then if Kelani wins, she gets her title shot with Sol at Battleground. Zaria sarcastically says yeah, sure. But Sol says fine by her. Zaria is confused but Kelani has her match. Will ZaRuca be able to iron out the details? Or will the Standout have her shot at taking back that title?
Ava, Joe Hendry & Trick Williams meet backstage.
The contract signing will happen in the boardroom, not the ring, and she thanks them both for being here at this historic signing. For the first time ever, the TNA World Championship will be on the line at a WWE event. “A brand that just celebrated 23 years, and a title that has been held by the likes of AJ Styles, Kurt Angle, LA Knight, and Bubba Ray Dudley. It all happens at Battleground.” But Trick tells Joe, “You did this to yourself, Joe. You took my opportunity at what meant the most to me. So you know what I’m gonna do? I’ma take what means the most to you, and that’s that TNA Title.
“You should’ve stayed in your sweet spot, where you were getting your flowers as the man in TNA. But next Sunday, we’re going to Battleground, and that’s my house.” Hendry says if anyone knows about breaking out, taking risks, having the confidence to do and be more, it’s Trick. But somewhere along the way, Trick forgot that. And instead, he bitched about what he deserves. Trick says Joe deserves a solid three minute ass whooping! Both men stand up up but Ava says she doesn’t care who did what. Security is right outside, do NOT make her call them. Sit down and sign the contract. Trick and Joe do as told and sit back down.
Joe says TNA is the hottest it has ever been in years. That’s because every morning, Joe wakes up and makes it his mission to make TNA the biggest brand it can be. That means him as champion, defending this against TNA wrestlers, NXT superstars, and putting them all down. Next Sunday, the TNA World Championship will be on the line on a WWE Premium Live Event! Does Trick understand how big that is? Of course Trick does! He’s in the match! This match is historic, thanks to Trick. And something Joe needs to realize is that while Joe is a social media sensation, Trick is bigger than NXT, bigger than TNA, and even both of them combined!
Dammit, this is Hollywood Trick! And Trick doesn’t have to tear Joe down or what Joe believes. Every man has his 15 minutes of fame. Except Trick Williams. Because next Sunday, Trick takes Joe’s fame, Joe’s title, and Joe’s company. Ava has Trick stop and shoves the contract at him. Trick signs his part as challenger, then slides the contract back to Ava. Joe says no one’s more confident than Trick. But that’s all on the outside. Yes, Trick main-evented back-to-back Stand & Delivers. Maybe this isn’t the biggest match of Trick’s career. But it Joe knows is the most important. Trick takes off his sunglasses to look at Joe more seriously as Joe continues.
Joe knows Trick is at a crossroads. There’s no road back to the NXT Championship. And after Joe beats Trick for the TNA Championship, then there’s no roads there, either. And then the number one star has no pathway to gold. That is when the doubt creeps in and Trick finds out that as fast as his star rose to the top, it can all come crashing down. So if anyone is gonna find out what it’s like for their 15 minutes of fame to expire, it’s Trick. Joe signs his part as champion, and now it is official! Ava thanks them both, and Joe heads out. Trick looks shook, is he starting to believe in Joe Hendry? Or will he still make TNA into Trick’s Newest Accomplishment?
Hank ‘n’ Tank find Josh Briggs in the locker room.
The big belly bandits ask how he’s doing. They thought they were having a rough week losing to Dark State. They feel for Briggs. He just lost a tag partner and best friend. Briggs says he didn’t want Yoshiki Inamura to leave. Inamura was like a brother to him. Inamura took care of Briggs while he was in Japan, and they all saw how happy he was when Inamura came to NXT. Briggs got mad because they kept losing and losing, he just wishes he didn’t push Inamura away. Hank says whatever Briggs needs, they’re here for him. He thanks them for that, but then Shawn Spears steps in. “You don’t appreciate what you have until it’s gone.”
The Chair Man says if Briggs had appreciated his best friend, his best friend would still be here. Briggs says he is not trying to hear about this from Spears. Spears clarifies, he meant Brooks Jensen, not this… uh, who was it? Inamura! Well, him, too. It happens a lot, huh? Tank says not the time. Spears says when it comes to friendships, Briggs is a cancer. They should change that before it consumes him and he has no choice but explode. Briggs says he has a lot on his mind right now, he doesn’t need Spears’ “wisdom.” Though, he has a really good idea on how to clear his head. Spears chuckles and leaves. Will the Bullhead Brawler have to expose Spears to some painful truth?
Kale Dixon & Uriah Connors meet with Ava.
She mentions how they both texted her 50 times, separately. What is going on? Kale says Chase U is back in full force, and it is time to get the ball rolling. Does she get what they mean? Afraid not. Uriah says what they want is that they don’t care who their opponents are, where they’re from or what they do, so long as Chase U gets back on the map. Ava says she feels they’re ready. Next week, they can have their debut tag team match. That easy? That easy. They’re excited, and Mr. Chase steps in. Ava says she loves the new fit, it is serving. Chase thanks her and asks what’s going on here.
Kale says he and Uriah have their very first tag team match next week! That’s great! Who against? Ava says the returning OTM. Oh no… Guys, WTF!? Will Kale & Uriah survive Nima & Price? Or are they just the first time to sink to the bottom?
BREAKING NEWS for next week’s episode.
It seems Ricky Saints’ talk with Ava inspired her to make a Triple Threat! Je’Von Evans VS Ashante THEE Adonis VS “Super” Sean Legacy, and the winner becomes #1 Contender to the NXT North American Championship! Will the Young OG humble Ashante while bringing that energy Sean is looking for?
BREAKING NEWS for Battleground!
Stacks said he’d end The D’Angelo Family, and he gets his chance in Tampa! Will the Underboss no longer be under anyone? Or will Tony avenge himself, Luca & Rizzo for everything Stacks has done?
Stephanie Vaquer & Jordynne Grace VS The Fatal Influence!
Despite the tension from earlier tonight, La Primera & The Juggernaut will try to put their differences aside in order to clear out the obstacles on the road to Tampa. Will it be easy pickings for champion and challenger against the dysfunctional Fallon & Jacy? Or can Cowgirl & Rockstar hold it together long enough to steal a win in this trap game?
The teams sort out and Grace starts against Fallon. They tie up, Grace headlocks, but Fallon powers up and out. Grace RUNS Fallon over, brushes herself off, then runs again. Fallon stays low, but then Grace dodges the lariat to shove, scoop, and BACKBREAKER! Grace stands Fallon up to LARIAT front and back and over again! Then Grace winds up, but Vaquer tags in! The fans are torn, but Vaquer springboards to CROSSBODY Fallon down! Things keep moving and Vaquer ducks ‘n’ dodges, then slides under a boot. Fallon CHOKES Vaquer, but Vaquer CHOPS! Vaquer knuckle locks, goes up and up, then jumps around, only for Fallon to kick the ropes!
Fallon has Vaquer stuck up top, bumps her off buckles, then brings her over. Tag to Jacy and the Influence mugs Vaquer. Jacy ROCKS Vaquer, says SHE should be champion, the pie faces Vaquer. The fans boo, Jacy SLAPS Vaquer, then Jacy reels Vaquer in. Jacy snap suplexes, covers, TWO! Jacy drags Vaquer up, whips her again, but Vaquer tilt-o-whirls and rolls Jacy up! TWO, and Jacy jackknife bridges, TWO! Vaquer manages the sunset flip, TWO! Body scissors and JAPANESE LEG ROLL CLUTCH! TWO!! Jacy escapes but Vaquer kicks low! Vaquer snapmares, and the fans fire up, only for Vaquer to chinlock.
The fans boo Vaquer teasing them, but she has Jacy’s arm trapped. Jacy endures and fights up to her feet. Jacy powers out and Fallon tags in. Vaquer dodges Jacy but Fallon KNEES her in the back! Jacy SUPERKICKS Vaquer down, then coordinates with Fallon. They reel Vaquer in, double suplex, but Vaquer lands out! Fallon gets away but Vaquer THROWS Jacy down! Vaquer then grabs Fallon, CODE BREAKER SENTON COMBO! The fans fire up, but Fallon trips Vaquer! Vaquer kicks Fallon but Fallon holds on. Fallon has both legs, but Vaquer BOOTS her away! But Jacy YANKS Grace off the corner!
Grace CHOPS Jacy, but Fallon BOOTS Vaquer! Fallon then sucker punches Grace! Jacy CANNONBALLS Grace down, Fallon goes up, up, and SUPER CROSSBODIES Grace & Vaquer! The Influence soaks up the heat, and NXT goes picture in picture.
The Influence drags Vaquer up and into the ring, and Vaquer goes to a corner. Fallon stomps away on Vaquer, digs her boot in, but stops as the ref counts. Fallon stands Vaquer up to cravat and neck wrench. Vaquer endures, Fallon throws knees, and Vaquer falls. Fallon sucker punches Grace again! Fallon whips Vaquer to the Influence’s corner, then storms up to ROCK her again! Tag to Jacy, she taunts Grace, then runs in for a CANNONBALL! Cover, TWO! Vaquer is tougher than that, but Jacy stomps her. Jacy taunts Grace more, sits Vaquer up, and KICKS her in the back! Cover, TWO! Jacy is annoyed but she brings Vaquer back around.
Jacy bumps Vaquer off buckles, tags Fallon, and Fallon snapmares. Fallon runs to SLIDING FOREARM! Cover, TWO! Fallon is annoyed but she drags Vaquer back up. Fallon whips Vaquer to a corner, ROCKS her again, then whips her corner to corner. Fallon runs up to ROCK Vaquer again! Vaquer fires forearms on Fallon, then SOBATS! Vaquer runs, but into a BOOT! Fallon drags Vaquer up, NXT returns to single picture, and Fallon bumps Vaquer off buckles. The fans rally but Fallon tags Jacy in. The Influence double whip but Vaquer crisscrosses them and CHOP away! Vaquer mule kicks Fallon out, but Jacy KNEES SMASHES and LARIATS! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally for Vaquer as she goes to a corner. Jacy runs in but Vaquer goes up and over! Vaquer rolls but Jacy BOOTS her down! Jacy drags Vaquer up, bumps her off buckles and stomps a mudhole in. Jacy puts Vaquer up, SLAPS her, then climbs. But Vaquer HEADBUTTS Jacy and fires body shots! Vaquer slips down, she tucks Jacy in, CHEEKY NANDOS! Then a FLAPJACK off the corner! The fans fire up while Jacy and Vaquer are both down! Jacy and Vaquer crawl, the fans rally up, hot tags to Fallon and Grace! The fans fire up as Grace rallies on the Influence! GERMAN SUPLEX for Fallon! GERMAN SUPLEX for Jacy!
Grace throws hands on Fallon in the corner, then CHOPS her! Then she ELBOWS Jacy, RAMS Jacy into Fallon, and then gives Jacy a SPINEBUSTER! Fallon is up, Grace fireman’s carries, ROLLING DEATH VALLEY! SLIDING FOREARM! Cover, Jacy breaks it in time! Jacy bails out before Grace can get her, so Grace ROCKS Jacy! Grace hoists Fallon to the top rope, CHOPS her, then climbs. Fallon fires body shots, Grace hops down and Fallon KICKS her! Fallon reels Grace in, TORNADO SNAP SUPLEX! Grace sputters, Fallon drags her up, but Grace ROCKS Fallon! And fireman’s carries, but Jacy saves Fallon!
Vaquer storms in and she ROCKS Fallon! Grace ROCKS Fallon, these four brawl and the fans fire up! The ref reprimands but Vaquer ROCKS Jacy, only for Jacy to BOOT Vaquer! Grace suplexes Fallon, but Jacy SWEEPS the leg, Fallon DDTS Grace! Vaquer is up, Jacy SUPERKICKS her! Vaquer tumbles out, but Fallon drags her back in! The Influence set Vaquer up and run, but Grace shoves Vaquer out of the way! FATAL CONNECTION!! Cover, TWO?!? Grace survives eating the bullet for Vaquer and Fallon is shocked! Vaquer is up but Fallon DECKS her! Fallon tags Jacy, Jacy PENALTY KICKS Vaquer!
Fallon drags Grace up, Jacy steps in, but Grace BOOTS Jacy first! Grace ELBOWS Fallon, HEADBUTTS her down, then ROCKS Jacy! Pump handle, BEAST MODE!! Cover, Grace & Vaquer win!
Winners: Stephanie Vaquer & Jordynne Grace, by pinfall
Fatal Influence is at a loss for words, but Vaquer is rather stunned herself. The Juggernaut took care of Jacy & Fallon all by herself, will Vaquer have no chance at Battleground? Or will this Dark Angel refuse to lose to Grace?
Something is happening backstage!
Ethan Page has just knocked down Ricky Saints! Ethan told Ricky they’d pick this up later, and it’s later. Ethan drops the North American Championship on the champion, then takes his leave. Will All Ego still take someone’s spotlight?
My Thoughts:
A great NXT that did a lot to set more up for Battleground. Great opening promo from Myles with NQCC and Ethan. And while it was clever for fans to use the “He Can’t Hear You!” line, they were rather rowdy the rest of the segment and I wish they would just let the promos be the promos. That aside, it helped set up other parts of the show, and it segued right into Dempsey VS Oba. That was a great match, especially with Dempsey not having wrestled on TV in some time. But naturally, Oba won to show his dominance. Myles VS Ethan was also great, and naturally Myles won to keep the #1 contender’s spot.
Ethan had a good segment with Ricky Saints, and then Ricky had a good part with Je’Von and Ashante. That Triple Threat will be some really good stuff, but I’m pretty sure Ashante is in the match so he can take the pin, presumably to Je’Von. Plus, with Ethan attacking Ricky to end the night, I think that gives us Ethan VS Ricky first, and Je’Von gets the winner. It’d be very fitting if Je’Von got his first singles title off of Ethan after all Ethan did to Je’Von. Good promo from OTM to issue one last warning to the tag division. And great promo in connection to that with Kale & Uriah stepping in it. OTM were of course going to win their return match, but knowing it is Kale & Uriah, it might even be easier than that.
Great segment with Briggs, Hank ‘n’ Tank, and Shawn Spears. Spears of course brought up how Briggs & Jensen didn’t work out, and obviously he was going to put all the blame on Briggs. I sense a Six Man Tag of The Culling VS Briggs, Hank ‘n’ Tank, and The Culling wins. From there, maybe Briggs breaks down and desperately wants Spears’ “guidance,” and Jensen is the one that vouches for him. Very good promo from Taker, Bubba and not just the women’s finalists from LFG, but pretty much all the women in the NXT midcard, and technically some from Evolve. I think everyone knows I haven’t been watching LFG or else there’d be articles, but Taker’s right, Zena and Tyra Mae are going from one big challenge to another here.
Speaking of the women’s division, great promo from Tatum because it helps put into context how these releases actually feel. Tatum’s trio especially got screwed by the last round of releases, because sadly even now, no one cares about that kind of stuff. Tatum being emotionally torn apart and then wanting to physically tear Thea apart is a good pivot to use all this for the sake of story. It also gave a segue to things with Jaida, Kelani and ZaRuca. Jaida having attitude over Thea’s personality is a bit beneath her in my opinion, but Kelani wanting after Sol is good stuff. I would think Kelani finds a way to beat Zaria, then we get Kelani VS Sol and that’ll be another awesome match.
Great stuff with the D’Angelo Family and how Stacks cost Tony against Wes and got the better of him with the safehouse. Stacks knew Tony would react that way, assuming the worst of Stacks, and Stacks took advantage. I just wish Tony VS Stacks at Battleground was a Street Fight. The animosity in this feud was automatic, so the No Disqualification nature of the match should’ve been just as automatic. And even more so, if Luca Crusifino makes his return, his interference wouldn’t end the match, but it would still decide it. If The Consigliere was somehow now on Stacks’ side, him showing up to clobber Tony and handing Stacks that win would be huge Heel heat.
I also like the name of Wes’s group, “High Ryze.” It’s not anywhere near as odd as “Dark State” or “The Culling,” which I will still argue don’t fit either faction. And High Ryze being “high rise” stylized, it speaks to how they’re on the rise and ready for that high rise lifestyle. Surprisingly, no Dark State tonight, though. Very good contract signing promo from Trick and Hendry, with Hendry getting the better of Trick in the war of words. It makes me wonder if that means Trick wins the TNA World Championship with underhanded tactics. And there’s still half a chance Trick reveals that he leads Dark State, as they could be how he wins.
And great stuff with the Women’s Championship story. Good promo from Vaquer with Fatal Influence and Jordynne Grace. Not sure where Jazmyn Nyx was tonight but maybe her presence would’ve kept Fallon & Jacy on the same page and the point is that the group is falling apart. Great match from Fatal Influence VS Vaquer & Grace, and Grace really does go Beast Mode to finish it. But that might partly be because Vaquer is going to find a way to win. Though at the same time, seems like a shame for Grace to strike out on the top title so soon. At the same time, that big Worlds Collide/Money in the Bank weekend is only two weeks after Battleground… Maybe Grace wins so that Vaquer’s rematch can be in front of a big audience of combined WWE and AAA fans.
My Score: 8.8/10
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Opening weekend wraps up with the Funky Weapon!
There’s more mix ‘n’ match as Best of the Super Juniors 32 keeps going! But will Ryusuke Taguchi kick Bone Soldier butt in tonight’s main event?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Dragon Dia & Katsuya Murashima VS Francesco Akira & Jakob Austin Young; Akira & Jakob win.
- El Desperado & Shoma Kato VS Nick Wayne & Daiki Nagai; Nick & Daiki win.
- Hiromu Takahashi & Shingo Takagi VS Kosei Fujita & Hartley Jackson; Hiromu & Takagi win.
- Best of the Super Juniors 32 A Block: Ninja Mack VS Robbie X; Mack wins.
- Best of the Super Juniors 32 B Block: Kevin Knight VS MAO; Mao wins.
- Best of the Super Juniors 32 A Block: Master Wato VS Clark Connors; Connors wins.
- Best of the Super Juniors 32 B Block: YOH VS Robbie Eagles; Eagles wins.
- Best of the Super Juniors 32 B Block: Ryusuke Taguchi VS Taiji Ishimori; Taguchi wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Best of the Super Juniors 32 A Block: Ninja Mack VS Robbie X!
It’s the return of the Mack! Will the American Ninja start to take the block? Or will he be unable to solve for X?
The bell rings and the fans rally while the two circle. They start a “NINJA! NINJA!” chant, but then Robbie brings out a copy of the Ninja Mack mask! Just to rip it up! The fans boo, but Robbie throws it at Mack, and then SMACKS him down! The fans boo but Robbie stomps Mack at the ropes! The ref reprimands but Robbie ROCKS Mack! Robbie whips, Mack reverses, and Robbie handsprings over to then handspring with the ropes! Mack catches him, shove shim, hurdles over him, then backflips over, only for Robbie to SOBAT! The fans cheer, Robbie whips, but Mack reverses. Robbie goes up and over and shows off with his own handspring!
Mack runs in, Robbie slips out to the apron to ROCK Mack! Robbie springboards but Mack gets under. Robbie handsprings through, comes back and RANAS, but Mack handsprings through! The fans fire up and the two reset. Robbie runs up, Mack TOSSES him up and out! The fans fire up as Mack builds speed, and he handsprings for the NINJA- NO, Robbie moves back! But the Ninja Special continues even on the floor! Robbie runs away but Mack catches up, to HANDSPRING KICK him down at the stage! The fans fire up for that Super Ninja Special, and Mack leaves Robbie behind for the ring count.
Robbie sputters and crawls at 4 of 20, but is still far away at 10! Robbie hurries, the fans rally, and Robbie runs at 15 to slide in at 17! But Mack is on him with a facelock! Robbie fights up, lifts Mack, and then throws him away! Mack comes back, but Robbie uses the ref as a shield! Then he throws Mack down by his mask! Robbie throws down forearms and a stomp! The fans are torn but Robbie storms up on Mack to BOOT him in the corner! Robbie brings Mack around, suplexes then covers, ONE!! Mack is tougher than that and the fans rally up. Robbie CHOKES Mack on the ropes, then soaks up the cheers and jeers.
The ref counts, Robbie steps off at 4, then he WRECKS Mack with a dropkick! Mack is on the ground but the fans rally up. Robbie stands Mack up, CHOPS him, then stalks him to railing. Robbie pushes Mack into the ring, clamps on with a half nelson and covers, TWO! The fans cheer and Robbie gets annoyed. Robbie hauls Mack up to a fireman’s carry, but Mack slips around to sunset flip! TWO, and Robbie SWATS Mack’s haymaker to CHOP! Robbie whips, Mack reverses, but Robbie slides and then dodges! Mack is on the apron, Robbie runs to CANNONBALL KICK! The fans fire up as now Robbie builds speed!
Robbie goes up, up, and he ESCALARAS! Down goes Mack and the fans fire up with Robbie! Robbie drags Mack up and puts him back in the ring. Robbie then slingshots for a stalling SENTON! Cover, TWO! Mack is still in this and the fans rally up. Robbie and Mack slowly rise, and Robbie takes aim. Robbie runs in but blocks a boot! Robbie puts the leg on the ropes, KICKS the ropes, then SPIN KICKS Mack! Robbie snapmares Mack, RUNNING SHOOTING STAR onto knees! Mack cradles Robbie, TWO! Mack waits on Robbie, and DOUBLE CHOPS him! Then he DOUBLE CHOPS against the ropes! Mack won’t let Robbie get away as he unleashes CHOP after CHOP!
The fans fire up and Mack whips. Robbie reverses, then Robbie runs past Mack to fireman’s carry! ROLLING SENTON, STANDING SHOOTING STAR! Cover, TWO!! Robbie is frustrated but the fans fire up! Mack flounders to the corner, the fans rally up, and Robbie runs up to BOOT! Snapmare and now Robbie goes up the corner! From the top rope, X EX- NO, Mack dodges! Robbie rolls through, handsprings, but into a GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO!! Mack holds on but Robbie victory rolls! TWO!! Mack and Robbie hurry up, Robbie handsprings, but into a DREAMCAST KICK AND CRADLE!! MACK WINS!!
Winner: Ninja Mack, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Robbie earns 0)
Innovating in the blink of an eye, Ninja Mack ends this just as quickly! Will every match Mack has be as fast ‘n’ furious as this? Or will someone find a way to slow Mack down?
Best of the Super Juniors 32 B Block: Kevin Knight VS MAO!
The Jet may be All Elite now, but he’s always going to be #2Flyy! However, he’s up against DDT Pro’s Idol Wrestler. Can Knight get through the Michinoku Tornado? Or will his flight to the top be grounded?
The bell rings and the fans rally as Knight and Mao stare down. The fans seem strongly behind Mao as he and Knight circle. They tie up, Knight headlocks, then he hits a takeover. Mao fights around, stands back up, and he powers his way out of the headlock to have the armlock. Mao steps over to wrench the arm, but Knight rolls, handsprings, and wrenches back! Knight hammerlocks, but Mao reaches back to headlock. The fans applaud, but Knight rolls Mao to get free. Mao ducks a kick, Knight dodges a spin kick, and the fans cheer the standoff. Mao runs up, Knight dodges then arm-drags! Knight runs up, springboards and FLYING ARM-DRAGS!
Mao is up but Knight FLYING SHOULDER TACKLES! The fans fire up and Knight runs corner to corner to LARIAT! Knight goes up to rally the fans, then he hops down to stomp and UPPERCUT on repeat! The ref counts as Knight stomps a mudhole in, and Knight snapmares Mao for a SLIDING SHOULDER TACKLE! The fans rally, Knight covers, TWO! The fans applaud while Mao grits his teeth. Knight stands Mao up but Mao fires body shots! Knight ROCKS Mao, runs, but Mao ELBOWS him! Mao runs, Knight follows, but Mao goes up and around! Knight tumbles out to the apron, but he ROCKS Mao first!
Knight springboards but Mao WHEEL KICKS him down! Mao wrenches an arm and SLINGSHOT CUTTERS! The fans fire up and Mao climbs up, to then SPLIT LEG MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO, but Mao goes right to the corner! Mao aims again, for a KING KONG KNEE DROP! Mao rolls off the impact, but then rolls back and has Knight in the COBRA TWIST! Knight endures, the fans rally, and Knight powers his way to switch the twist! Mao endures now and the fans rally more. Knight says he’s #MecchaTsuyoi, but then Mao throws elbows! Mao switches things back, and he says he is meccha, meccha, TSUKAKUI! Mao puffs up to show how strong and handsome he is!
The fans cheer, but Knight powers out with a HIP TOSS! But Mao drags Knight down into a JUST FACELOCK! Knight endures, reaches out, fights around, and has the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer again while Mao lets go. Mao rises and the fans rally while Knight is on the ropes. Mao runs and CANNONBALLS Knight against the ropes! Knight writhes but Mao brings him up, only for Knight to fire a forearm! Mao fires one back! Knight fires another forearm, so Mao fires back! They go forearm for forearm, then Knight has the edge. Knight winds up but Mao SHOTEIS! Mao whips Knight to a corner, but Knight comes back to LARIAT!
Knight LARIATS again, then whips, but Mao reverses. Knight goes up and over, runs back in, and he LARIATS again! The fans fire up with Knight as he goes to a corner. Knight aims, runs in corner to corner, but Mao dodges! Mao runs, but into a DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Mao survives and Knight is stunned but the fans rally up! Knight fires up and the fans rally again. Knight runs up but Mao stops the satellite DDT! Mao BOOTS Knight against the ropes, then runs, but he goes Matrix to avoid Knight’s superkick! Mao BOOTS Knight’s lariat to SHOTEI, but Knight ROCKS Mao with a forearm! Mao REAR HEADBUTTS!
Mao runs, Knight hurdles over to PELE! But Mao tiger-feints and rewinds to SPIN KICK! The fans fire up even more while both men are down! Knight staggers to his feet, Mao ROCKS him with a hard right! Mao reels him in, but Knight suplexes first! The fans fire up and Knight covers, ONE as Mao goes Matrix again! Knight is stunned, runs up on Mao, but blocks a boot. Mao ENZIGIRIS Knight, goes up, only for Knight to go to the UPPER ROOM! The fans fire up as Knight hurries to the apron and then the corner. Knight climbs, but Mao rises again! Mao goes up the ropes to SUPER STEINER Knight in return!
The fans fire up as Mao hurries up top again, but Knight goes back up! But no Upper Room, this is a SUPER DUPER PLEX!! But Mao’s right up!? And so is Knight! But then both men fall over! The fans fire up as Knight and Mao slowly stir. They both rise up, but Knight goes to the apron. Knight springboards, but into a DREAMCAST KICK! Mao reels Knight in and gut wrenches, but Knight TORNADO DDTS free!! Knight roars, runs, but Mao uses the ref as a shield! Then Mao runs to jump over the ref, only for Knight to jump over Mao! ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO!! Mao survives and the fans are thunderous!
Knight and Mao hurry back up, Knight runs up, but Mao stops the satellite again! MICHINOKU DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!?!? The fans rally as hard as they can and Mao aims, SUPERKICK! Cover, MAO WINS!
Winner: Mao, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Knight earns 0)
The Idol Warrior’s Samurai Kick strikes down the Knight! Knight shows respect with a bow, will we see these two meet again down the line? Will Mao soon take over the BOSJ for DDT Pro?
Best of the Super Juniors 32 A Block: Master Wato VS Clark Connors!
The Way of the Grandmaster is once again IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion, but that just means he has a target on his back. Will Wato soon owe a golden ticket to this War Dog? Or will Wato be stronger than 100 Proof?
The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two stare down. Connors and Wato circle, the fans rally more, and the two feel things out. Wato stays away from the leg takedown, then they feel out a knuckle lock. They back off, step forward, but Connors KNEES low! Connors ROCKS Wato, CHOPS Wato, then whips Wato. Connors bypasses but Wato hurdles over the backdrop! Connors still ROCKS Wato and has him in a corner. Connors runs in, but Wato BOOTS Connors, then BULLDOGS! The fans fire up with Wato and he KICKS Connors’ leg. And KICKS, and KICKS! Wato snapmares Connors, KICKS him again, then KICKS, KICKS, KICKS!
Connors ducks Wato, shoves him, and then hits the JEEP FLIPPER! Wato tumbles out of the ring but Connors pursues. Connors SMACKS Wato off the apron, then tells fans to move! The Young Lions usher fans out of the way, and Connors BOWLS Wato into the chairs! That was a STRIKE and then some! The fans fire up and even bark with Connors. Connors storms over to Wato, stomps him, then drags him up to his feet. Connors SMACKS Wato of a chair, then brings him back around. Wato fires elbows and CHOPS, but Connors CHOPS back! Wato staggers deeper into the crowd and Connors pursues!
The fans rally as Connors BOWLS Wato into more chairs! Connors has cleared out the whole section! The fans rally as Connors shoves the ref aside. Connors JAMS Wato up with a chair, then tells another section of fans to move! They hurry out of the way as Connors BOWLS Wato into even more chairs! Connors hits a turkey, aka bowling hattrick, and the fans fire up more. The ref reprimands but Connors clears out the chairs so he can stand Wato up. Wato fires body shots and forearms! Wato ROCKS Connors, and then Connors falls onto chairs! This entire area is a mess but Wato drags Connors up.
Connors body shots Wato, then POSTS him! Wato falls in a heap and the fans are torn. Connors intimidates commentary, then he goes looking under the ring. Connors brings out… a TIRE?! Why was one of those under there?! The ref reprimands Connors but Connors shoves him aside! Connors brings the spare tire over and JAMS Wato up! Connors sets the tire down, and he has Wato’s leg! Connors SMASHES Wato’s knee on the hubcap! The fans are torn but maybe so is Wato’s knee! Connors puts Wato in the ring, covers, TWO! Wato stays in this and the fans applaud, but Connors ties the legs up in a knot!
Wato endures, reaches out, and he claws his way to the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer but Connors doesn’t let go. The ref counts so Connors stops at 4. Connors mocks the fans cheering Wato on, then drags Wato to his feet. Connors CHOPS Wato, whips him, but Wato blocks by holding ropes! Connors KNEES low, whips again, btu Wato reverses to ROCK, KNEE, and SHOTGUN Connors to a corner! The fans fire up and Wato rises. Wato runs in, Connors dodges, and Connors comes back, only for Wato to dodge! Wato then reels Connors in for a BIG back suplex! Cover, TWO! Connors stays in this but Wato goes to the apron.
Wato slaps his leg into working, then watches Connors rise. Wato springboards but Connors gets under! Wato lands on his feet but his bad leg jams! Connors CHOP BLOCKS the leg! The fans are torn as Wato writhes, but Connors circles like a shark. Connors runs, but Wato catches him to a cradle! TWO!! Wato ROUNDHOUSE, but Connors blocks! And pops Wato up for a SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Both men are down and the fans fire back up! Connors rises, drags Wato up, then whips, but Wato avoids the powerslam! Wato runs in, tilt-o-whirls, then hooks Connors up, RECIENTEMENTE!! Cover, TWO!!
Connors survives but Wato doesn’t stop! He body scissors and rolls Connors into VENDEVAL!! Connors endures, fights around with his legs, and he rocks the boat, only for Wato to pour on the pressure! Connors still fights, but Wato puts even more pressure on!! Connors powers through to have the ROPEBREAK!! The fans cheer while Wato lets go in frustration. Wato drags Connors up, reels him in, but Connors holds ropes to fight the suplex! Wato KICKS the arms, TSUTEN- NO, Connors mule kicks the legs! Wato SOBATS and runs, but into a POWERSLAM!! Wato rises up, into a SPEAR!! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Wato survives, and Connors hurries to bring Wato up. Connors puts one out, but Wato fights No Chaser! ROUNDHOUSE, and Wato fires back up! The fans rally, Wato hooks Connors up, RECIENTE- NO, Connors slips free and reels Wato back in! NO CHASER!!! Cover, CONNORS WINS!!
Winner: Clark Connors, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Wato earns 0)
100 Proof gets his clear shot on Wato, and now he has both two points and a golden ticket for it! Will the DEFY Champion soon run the whole Junior Heavyweight Division?
Best of the Super Juniors 32 B Block: YOH VS Robbie Eagles!
The Direct Drive is also once again IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champion alongside Wato, but that means the same target is on his back. Will Yoh owe this Ichiban Sweet Boy a title shot? Or can he shoot down the Sniper of the Skies first?
Wait, Yoh’s near jacket and gear is made with… recycled Ziploc bags? Well, guess that’s one way to stay fresh. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, but Yoh’s height gives him leverage to put Eagles on ropes. The ref counts, Eagles turns things around on Yoh, but he lets off slowly, to kiss Yoh on the cheek. The fans cheer, especially the ladies, and then Eagles asks Yoh for one in return. Yoh steps closer, but Eagles headlocks! Eagles hits the takeover, Yoh headscissors, and Eagles kips free. Roles reverse and Yoh headlocks for a takeover and Eagles headscissors. Yoh kips free, the two stand off, and the fans cheer.
Eagles steps closer and he gives Yoh another kiss on the cheek. Yoh still wants to reciprocate but Eagles says no thanks. Because right now, he wants to “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” “OI OI OI!” “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” “OI OI OI!” “ROBBIE!” “OI!” “ROBBIE!” “OI!” “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” “OI OI OI!” And Yoh kisses Eagles on the cheek three times! The fans cheer and Eagles is stunned. Eagles slaps sense into himself, then SLAPS Yoh! Yoh runs up, Eagles trips him, but Yoh boots him away. Yoh drops down, bypasses, then drop toeholds Eagles! He calls Eagles a “hentai (pervert)” before he DROPKICKS Eagles!
Eagles tumbles out, Yoh PLANCHAS and direct hit! The fans fire up for Yoh, and he uses a fan’s towel to wipe his face. Yoh stalks Eagles, puts him in the ring, then hurries to a corner. The fans rally as Yoh climbs, and he CANNONBALLS! Cover, TWO! The fans rally while Eagles goes to a corner. Yoh stomps Eagles, throws forearms, then wrenches and whips corner to corner. Yoh runs in and ELBOWS Eagles, then turns him, but Eagles SAIDOS free! The fans fire up while both men are down! Eagles covers, TWO! The fans applaud and Eagles sits Yoh up to run and SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO!
Eagles is annoyed but the fans rally up. Eagles kicks Yoh around, drags him up, and reels him in for a scoop and SLAM! Eagles soaks up the cheers, then covers, TWO! Eagles eggs Yoh on, so Yoh fires a forearm then a kick, and repeat. Eagles kicks low, CHOPS, then whips. Yoh reverses but Eagles stops himself, so Yoh’s dropkick gets nothing. Eagles runs up to roll Yoh into a KNEEBAR! Yoh endures as Eagles grapevines the leg, and the fans rally up. Yoh reaches out, crawls around, and manages the ROPEBREAK! The fans applaud and Eagles lets go. Eagles drags Yoh from the ropes to drop a KNEE on the knee!
The fans rally while Eagles paces. Yoh rises up, but Eagles KICKS, KICKS and KICKS! Yoh eggs Eagles on, so Eagles runs to LEG LARIAT! Cover, TWO! The fans rally and Eagles drags Yoh up. Eagles cravats but Yoh fights the rest. Eagles CLUBS away on Yoh, UPPERCUTS, then ASAI- NO, Yoh slips free of the Asai DDT! But Eagles back suplexes! Yoh lands out and waistlocks but Eagles switches and CHOP BLOCKS! Eagles runs, but into a DROPKICK! Both men are down and the fans rally up. Yoh and Eagles go to opposite ends, then they both run up! Yoh rallies with forearm after forearm, then whips, only for Eagles to reverses. But Yoh FLYING FOREARMS!
The fans rally more and Yoh brings Eagles around. Yoh scoops and SLAMS Eagles, then he sets up to soak up cheers. Yoh soaks up quite a lot, and then Yoh ELBOW DROPS! Cover, TWO! KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO, SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Eagles stays in this and the fans rally up again. Yoh brings Eagles around, reels him in, but Eagles fights the suplex! Yoh CLUBS away on Eagles, then brings him up to suplex, only for Eagles to fight free! Eagles wrenches, but Yoh ROCKS him! And ROLLING ELBOWS! Yoh reels Eagles back in, FALCON ARROW! Cover, TWO! Eagles survives and the fans fire up again!
Eagles and Yoh stir and Yoh goes to a corner. Yoh tunes up and the fans rally. Eagles rises, Yoh aims, but Eagles ducks the superkick to trip Yoh and tie up the legs! RON MILLER SPECIAL!! ROPEBREAK, but Eagles brings Yoh up fast, ASAI DDT!! Both men are down again and the fans rally back up. Eagles drags Yoh up, but Yoh breaks free, only for Eagles to KNEE low! And KICK down! Yoh goes to a corner, Eagles runs in, DOUBLE KNEES! Eagles comes back but Yoh BOOTS him! Eagles returns again to BASEMENT 619, but Yoh jumps it! Yoh then JUMP KNEES Eagles! Eagles DOUBLE KNEES Yoh again!
Yoh sits down, Eagles runs in yet again, METEORA! The fans fire up as Eagles drags Yoh to center and covers. TWO, but Eagles stands Yoh up to hook him up! But Yoh fights the backpack to scoop and FALCON GOROSHI! The fans fire up while both men are down, and Yoh clutches his leg. Yoh crawls to the cover, TWO! Yoh clamps on an ANACONDA VICE!! Eagles endures as Yoh uses Tenzan’s signature hold! Eagles fights around, stands up, but Yoh SLAMS Eagles down! Yoh pulls on the hold but Eagles still endures! The fans rally, Eagles reaches out, then manages to sit up! Eagles stands again, fights towards ropes, but Yoh ripcords and reels Eagles in!
DIRECT- NO, Eagles BACKDROPS out of that! Yoh sunset flips but Eagles rolls through! Eagles steps through, but Yoh BOOTS him away! Both men stand and the fans rally. Yoh ROCKS Eagles, Eagles kicks the leg, and both men back up. Yoh slaps his leg into working, and DOUBLE FOREARMS collide! DOUBLE FOREARMS collide again! And then again! Both men stagger all the way back to the ropes, for DOUBLE I’LL BE BACK! Eagles and Yoh SUPERKICK each other down! The fans fire up and both men go to corners. Eagles runs in, Yoh pops him up! Eagles lands on the apron, KICKS the leg out, then springboards to SNIPER DROPKICK!
The fans fire up as Yoh flounders! Eagles aims again, HYPER- NO, Yoh ducks that and rolls Eagles. Eagles rolls through but Yoh blocks the superkick! But Eagles stops the dragon screw, grabs an arm, and YANKS Yoh up to the fireman’s carry! Eagles shifts Yoh around to the TURBO BACKPACK!! Cover, TWO!!! Yoh survives and Eagles is shocked! The fans fire up as Eagles takes aim, BASEMENT SUPERKICK! Eagles hurries up top, takes aim, and WARP 4.5!! Direct hit on Yoh’s legs, and then Eagles steps through. But Yoh cradle counters! TWO!! Eagles escapes but he and Yoh fight for facelock control!
Yoh suplexes, Eagles slips through to waistlock, but Yoh switches! Yoh half nelsons, but Eagles fights the suplex! Yoh powers up and gets the full nelson! Eagles breaks free, but Yoh hops up to POISON-RANA!! Eagles rises, into a SUPERKICK!! The fans fire up and Yoh powers up again! Yoh drags Eagles up and in, DIRECT- NO, Eagles arm-drags and steps through, but Yoh turns Ron Miller Special into an O’Conner! STAR GAZE- NO, Eagles pushes on the bad leg! Yoh falls forward and Eagles ties the legs up! RON MILLER SPECIAL!!! Yoh endures, flails, and claws at the mat while the fans rally! Eagles drags Yoh away from ropes, YOH TAPS! EAGLES WINS!!
Winner: Robbie Eagles, by submission (gains 2 points; Yoh earns 0)
Both IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions have lost! A golden ticket to Clark Connors, a golden ticket to Robbie Eagles, will Wato & Yoh be busy after the Best of the Super Juniors? Will Eagles use this win to go for the trophy?
Best of the Super Juniors 32 B Block: Ryusuke Taguchi VS Taiji Ishimori!
The Funky Weapon and the Bone Soldier have had quite a few battles through this tournament series, and more often than not, #ItsReborn! But will Taiji keep up that streak #ByGrace? Or will Taguchi finally get lucky here in the main event?
The bell rings and the fans rally behind “TA-GU-CHI!” Taguchi and Taiji circle, feel things out, then clinch. They go around, Taiji facelocks, but Taguchi wrenches out. Taiji wrenches in return and hammerlocks but Taguchi moves around. They stand, Taguchi switches the hammerlock, but Taiji drop toeholds. Taiji floats but Taguchi slips out the back to hammerlock again. The fans applaud this technical exchange, and Taguchi hooks an arm for a cover, TWO! Taguchi holds onto Taiji but Taiji fights up. Taiji wrenches out, but Taguchi rolls, trips Taiji and has the toehold. Taiji goes for an armbar but Taguchi goes for the leg!
Taiji scrambles forward and has the ROPEBREAK! The fans applaud and Taguchi lets go. Taguchi scoots back and keeps his eyes on Taiji. The fans rally as Taiji stands and the two reset. They circle, tie up again, and Taiji headlocks. Taguchi powers up and out and RAMS shoulders with Taiji! The fans cheer as Taiji dares Taguchi to run. Taguchi runs, they RAM shoulders again, and now Taiji runs. Taguchi drops down, hurdles, but Taiji waistlocks. Taguchi elbows free, whips to arm-drag, then he RAMS Taiji! Taguchi springboards to FLYING ARM-DRAG! And DROPKICK! The fans fire up as the Dropkick Master returns!
Taiji bails out but Taguchi builds speed! Taiji runs away but Taguchi rolls back and swivels them hips! Then Taguchi does the dance moves! The fans cheer but Taiji is annoyed. Taiji rushes up but Taguchi HIP ATTACKS him down! Taguchi slingshots, but Taiji YANKS him down! Taguchi hits apron then the floor, and Taiji stomps him. Taiji drags Taguchi around and CATAPULTS him into the POST! Taguchi falls and clutches his arm but the fans rally up. Taiji paces around the outside while Red Shoes checks Taguchi. Taguchi is okay to continue, but Taiji undoes the blue buckle pad! Red Shoes is none the wiser as he starts the ring count.
Taguchi shakes out the bad arm while he’s down on the mat. We go past 5 of 20, then past 10. Taguchi stands at 14 and the fans applaud. Taguchi hears 17 and rolls in at 19! The fans cheer as Taguchi maximizes his rest time, but then Taiji stomps Taguchi down! Taiji pulls on Taguchi’s bad arm, twists the wrist, and even stands on Taguchi’s face! Red Shoes reprimands, and it sounds like a young fan in the crowd shouts at Taiji. Taiji tries to spot the kid but he just pulls on Taguchi’s arm more. Taguchi fights up, but Taiji hammerlocks and POSTS him! The fans boo as Taguchi is stuck in the bare corner. Taiji brings Taguchi out to snapmare and FIST DROP! Cover, TWO!
The fans cheer but Taiji keeps Taguchi down with an armlock! Taguchi endures, and he reaches out to a ROPEBREAK with his foot! The fans cheer but Taiji holds on! Red Shoes reprimands and counts, Taiji lets go at 4, and the fans rally more. Taiji has Taguchi on the apron and drags him up. Taiji wrenches to HOTSHOT the arm! Taguchi drops to the apron and rolls in, clutching that shoulder. Taiji grins and looms over Taguchi. Taguchi CHOPS from below, but Taiji CLUBS him! Taguchi CHOPS again, but Taiji CLUBS Taguchi again! Taiji then grabs the bad arm for a STRAIGHT ARM BAR! Taguchi scrambles around again, ROPEBREAK!
Taiji still holds on so Red Shoes counts again. Taiji lets go at 4 and Taguchi crawls to the ropes. Taguchi kicks from below but Taiji eggs him on. Taguchi kicks more, so Taiji stomps him down! Taiji taunts the fans as they rally up for Taguchi. Taiji drags Taguchi up, Taguchi fires body shots, and the fans rally again. Taguchi runs, but jumps into an atomic drop! Taiji runs, btu Taguchi follows! Only to get another atomic drop! Taiji laughs while Taguchi drops to his knees. Taiji waistlocks but Taguchi fires elbows. Taguchi runs but fakes Taiji out, and then HIP ATTACKS! Then Taguchi TRIANGLE JUMP PLANCHAS! Direct hit and the fans cheer!
Taguchi still clutches the bad arm and shakes it out, but both he and Taiji are down as the ring count starts. Taguchi sits up at 6, drags Taiji up at 10, and puts him in at 11. Taguchi steps in and HIP DROPS! And HIP DROPS! And HIP DROPS again! Taguchi then goes back out to the apron, and he fires the fans up for the SLINGSHOT HIP DROP, but onto knees! Taiji turns things around on Taguchi and Taguchi hobbles away to a corner. Taiji runs in, but Taguchi BOOTS him! Taguchi goes up to get Taiji for the DEADLY BUTT SHADE! Taiji staggers back, Taguchi goes up, FLYING HIP ATTACK! The fans fire up and Taguchi covers, TWO!
Taguchi kips up and the fans fire up! Taguchi calls upon the powers of Strange Style, “ORYA~!” KETSU- NO, Taiji rolls Taguchi up! TWO!! Taiji ROCKS Taguchi, whips, but Taguchi reverses. Taiji handsprings to NEURALIZER KICK! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! Taiji hobbles over to Taguchi, drags him up, and gut wrenches. Taguchi slips free and waistlocks but Taiji switches. Taguchi drop toeholds but Taiji scrambles to the ROPEBREAK! Taguchi still uses OH MY GAH ANKLE!! Red Shoes reprimands, Taguchi stops, but then he drops KNEE after KNEE on Taiji’s ankle! Taguchi drags Taiji up and chicken wings!
DODON TO THE- NO, Taiji blocks the knees and deadlifts Taguchi into the CIPHER UTA- NO!! OH MY GAH- NO, VICTORY ROLL! TWO!! Taiji runs up, Taguchi dodges, ENZIGIRI! Both men are down again and the fans fire up! Taiji and Taguchi stir, and fans rally as Taguchi stands. Taguchi chicken wings but Taiji fights the lift! Taguchi CHOPS Taiji on the back, runs, but Taiji catches and spins him, to POST him again! Red Shoes reprimands but Taiji grabs Taguchi’s arm. Taiji hammerlocks one then half nelsons the other, but Taguchi fights the lift! Taiji powers through to hoist Taguchi up, SHOULDER BUSTER!
The fans rally while Taguchi writhes, and Taiji aims from the corner. Taguchi rises, Taiji runs in, LA MYST- NO, Taguchi powers through to roll Taiji up! TWO, and OH MY GAH ANKLE!! Taiji crawls, reaches out, but Taguchi drags him back! But Taiji drags Taguchi down! FUJIWARA, into the BONE LOCK!! Taguchi endures, fights around, reaches out, but Taiji rolls him away from ropes! Taguchi pops free to OH MY GAH ANKLE!! Taiji flails and reaches out, then grabs Red Shoes! Taiji YANKS Red Shoes into Taguchi, and that undoes the hold! Taguchi hurries back, but Taiji BOOTS Taguchi into Red Shoes!
The fans boo as Red Shoes goes down, but Taguchi rushes up on Taiji! Taiji slips around and hooks the arm, to LOW BLOW MULE KICK!! The fans boo more but Taiji GEDO CLUTCHES, TWO!!! Taguchi survives Taiji’s sneaky tactics and the fans fire up! Taiji, Taguchi and Red Shoes all slowly stand back up, and Taiji hobbles over to Taguchi. Taiji drags Taguchi up, but Taguchi is a ragdoll! Taiji snarls and he drags Taguchi up all the same, BLOODY- NO, Taguchi rolls through, and then has the OH MY GAH ANKLE!!! Taiji endures, Taguchi keeps him from ropes, and Taguchi pushes on that leg! The fans rally as hard as they can as Taguchi puts on the pressure!
Taiji grits his teeth, reaches out, but Taguchi twists the ankle more! Taiji fights forward, Taguchi drags him back, and repeat! Taguchi then yanks Taiji into the DODON BUSTER!!! Cover, TWO!?!? Taiji survives, but Taguchi just goes for OH MY GAH ANKLE!!!! The fans rally for Taguchi but Taiji rolls! Taguchi holds on!! Taguchi ELBOW DROPS the leg, then TWISTS the ankle!!! Taiji endures, but he TAPS!! TAGUCHI WINS!!!
Winner: Ryusuke Taguchi, by submission (gains 2 points; Taiji earns 0)
Taiji tried and tried, but who knew Taguchi would take this one so seriously? Will it only be #ByGrace that Taiji can turn this around and reach the top?
As for Taguchi, he ices his arm while the fans cheer him on. Then he gets the mic to say, “Thank you for the chants.” The fans cheer, and Taguchi continues, “Thank you all for so many of you showing up here in Iwanuma, and thank you for all the support.” The fans cheer again, and Taguchi adds that he’d like to thank Mayo Junichi Sato, as well as the Iwanuma City Board of Education. “The elementary and middle school kids were able to come here for free today, so we got so much support from the kids. For you to understand how pro-wrestling can give you strength is something that brings me so much joy.”
The fans applaud that, too, and Taguchi hopes they’ve all found a new hobby today in pro-wrestling. Please keep watching pro-wrestling, as there are so many great wrestlers for you to discover and enjoy. He hopes watching wrestling makes their lives more fun. He wishes them all the best. The fans applaud, and Taguchi says not just his opponent tonight, Taiji, but also Yoh and Mao are from here in the Miyagi Prefecture. “We produce a lot of great wrestlers, but I guess the Saito brothers are most famous.” The fans have a good laugh at that, and Taguchi says he hopes he can be like them in terms of popularity. Please continue to support him!
The fans applaud, and Taguchi says Hirooki Goto is leading NJPW and his Goto Revolution. The fans do applaud that, and Taguchi says he is willing to follow Goto. The G in IWGP may be for Goto, but the T in “The” that is in “Best of The Super Juniors” will now stand for Taguchi! The fans do like the sound of that. Taguchi says the BOSJ’s T will send his love to Iwanuma today. The fans like that, and Taguchi sees the cheerers are here, as is the mascot! The fans applaud and “Chief Clerk Iwanuma” waves. Taguchi says this is also on NJPW World, so this is good promotion around Japan and the world. You will see how great Iwanuma is today!
So, let’s go! The T in Best of the Super Juniors is for Taguchi! Iwanuma, daisuki desu~!” And since it’s been awhile, let’s do that, huh? The fans cheer and clap along as Taguchi does his dance! Will the Funky Weapon get even funkier as this tournament goes on? Will he lead the Junior Heavyweight Division just as Goto leads all of NJPW?
Here are the updated A Block standings!
Hiromu Takahashi: 1-0, 2 points
Dragon Dia: 1-0, 2 points
Kosei Fujita: 1-0, 2 points
Ninja Mack: 1-0, 2 points
Clark Connors: 1-0, 2 points
Master Wato: 0-1, 0 points
KUSHIDA: 0-1, 0 points
Yoshinobu Kanemaru: 0-1, 0 points
Francesco Akira: 0-1, 0 points
Robbie X: 0-1, 0 points
Here are the updated B Block standings!
El Desperado: 1-0, 2 points
Nick Wayne: 1-0, 2 points
MAO: 1-0, 2 points
Robbie Eagles: 1-0, 2 points
Ryusuke Taguchi: 1-0, 2 points
Kevin Knight: 0-1, 0 points
Titan: 0-1, 0 points
SHO: 0-1, 0 points
YOH: 0-1, 0 points
Taiji Ishimori: 0-1, 0 points
My Thoughts:
A great second day for BOSJ’s opening weekend. Mack VS Robbie X was immediately a high bar with that extra special Ninja Special Mack pulled off, and even how the finish came about with that spin kick into a cradle. Knight VS Mao also had some great innovation, and a great first win for Mao in his first-ever BOSJ. Connors and Eagles each getting a win over the tag team champions was a bit surprising, but they could do some big stuff with the tag teams after the tournament. I did like Connors using a tire in this match, and it sounds like that’s part of a new gimmick or something he’s doing. Yoh’s Ziplock outfit is pretty fun, too.
And great stuff out of the main event with getting “Serious Taguchi” here tonight. Taguchi is usually such a jokester so it’s great when he busts out a banger like this, especially when he wins. I appreciate Taguchi giving such a promo where he genuinely wants the kids to know pro-wrestling can be a hobby but also a career. I also like that he brought out the comedy here, copying Goto’s “the G in IWGP is for Goto” but to where it’s something irrelevant. Taguchi rising back up as a serious contender would be something to see, especially with all these crossovers.
My Score: 9/10
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