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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (1/8/18) | The Chairshot
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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (1/8/18)

Published

7 years ago

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All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Absolution VS Bayley & Sasha Banks w/ Mickie James; Bayley & Sasha win.
  • WOKEN Matt Hardy VS Curt Hawkins; Hardy wins.
  • WWE Cruiserweight Championship: Enzo Amore VS Cedric Alexander; Alexander wins by count out, Enzo retains the Cruiserweight Championship.
  • The Bar VS ???; Titus Worldwide wins.
  • Samoa Joe VS Rhyno w/ Heath Slater; Joe wins.
  • Asuka VS ???; no contest.
  • Six Man Tag: The Balor Club VS Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins & Jason Jordan; Balor Club wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Samoa Joe says The Big Dog’s Yard is in HIS World.

The Destroyer came after Roman Reigns’ Intercontinental Championship last week on Raw, but even with threat of No Champion’s Advantage, Roman retained his title. Can this fighting champion hold onto his title all the way through the Road to the Royal Rumble?

 

Roman Reigns heads to the ring.

Memphis has a mixed reaction to The Big Dog as he saunters out and grabs a mic. “After all his hype, you’d think Samoa Joe would be ready for me.” He wasn’t. When it was time to put up or shut up, Joe was silenced and Roman is still champion. And not because Roman is better but because he was fighting for Dean Ambrose. If you mess with one Shield brother, you mess with all of them! That was last week. This week, it’s– Jason Jordan?

The Gold-Blooded Son and one-half of the Raw Tag Team Champions heads right to the ring with a mic, to Memphis’ displeasure. Jordan compliments Roman’s match, he got “goosebumps.” He feels like he’s finally a part of something bigger. On behalf of Seth Rollins, Jordan would like to say that Roman proved this is his Yard. And thank you. He wants to Shield fist bump?

Seth Rollins comes out to clear this up.

Look, Jason, Rollins appreciates this. But he still has a lot to learn. Rollins taught him about teamwork, which worked, but this week… “We are really gonna have to work on your timing here, brother.” ROllins knows Jordan means well but he’s stepping on Roman’s moment. But this is all their moment. They all had problems with Joe and Roman took care of it. Jordan and Rollins are champions alongside Roman, and “we run this show!” We? You’re teamed with Seth, Roman is The Guy. “And we’re all champions!” They can take on as many men and teams as possible. This may not be the Shield, but this could be the “most-dominant three man group in all of WWE.” Finn Balor & The Club would like to differ!

Jordan is excited, clearly, but does he really think he’s part of the most dominant trio in WWE? Balor ran with The Good Brothers for ten years before Jordan even knew Angle was his daddy. Burn! Memphis trolls Jordan with “Who’s your daddy!?” The Balor Club has been running a long time, and you can even use the WWE Network to see the new special all about it. When Finn came to WWE, the Good Brothers stood alone for a time. They were Raw Tag Team Champions, Finn became the inaugural Universal Champion. Too Sweet. They were doing their own thing, but now they’ve reunited to take over. The year 2018 is the Year of Balor Club! Jordan laughs that off. This is the Champion’s Club. Get it? Is that the cute new version of The Shield? Must be, because the Lunatic Fringe isn’t out here. We have the Architect, the Big Dog, and… What’s the word? NERD!

Jordan shoves Gallows, we’re about to have a brawl! Rollins keeps the peace between his own side, Kurt Angle comes out to help. He makes this fight between champions and great friends the main event! “Oh it’s true, it’s DAMN true!” Which side will hold it together to come out the superior trio?

 

Absolution VS Bayley & Sasha Banks w/ Mickie James!

The Women’s Royal Rumble is set to make history, and every woman from Raw and SmackDown hopes to gain momentum before the big day. Will it be Gladiator and Golden Rose or the Hugger and Legit Boss getting a step ahead of the pack?

The bell rings and Mandy starts against Bayley. Bayley gets headlock control, Mandy powers out and runs Bayley over. Mandy trash talks, runs, and catches Bayley mid-jump. She puts Bayley in a corner but Bayley turns things around to unload a mudhole stomp. Mandy turns things around on Bayley and gives furious forearms. She trash talks Sasha, Bayley kicks back. Mandy scoops and slams then covers, TWO. She keeps on Bayley with a neck-wrench, Paige liking what she sees. Fans rally and Bayley gets up but Mandy throws her down by her hair. Bayley gets to a corner, Mandy trash talks too long, Bayley runs her over with a lariat. Bayley goes to tag Sasha but Mandy gets her a sucker punch. Mandy trash talks again, Bayley gives her a saido suplex! Mandy is bailed out by Absolution, we go to break.

Raw returns, Mandy throws Sasha down by her hair. They speed up, Sasha hip-tosses Mandy down to then give double knees! Cover, TWO, Sasha backs Sonya off. Mandy hits Sasha back with forearms, trash talks some more, and pie-faces Sasha. “This is Absolution, baby!” SLAP from Sasha! Sasha gives a shot to Sonya, too, but then Mandy hits a big knee strike! Cover, TWO, and Absolution gets frustrated. Tag to Sonya, she gives right hands to Sasha in the corner, then martial arts kicks.

Sonya snapmares and bodyscissors Sasha around the ribs. Paige likes what she sees, but fans rally for Sasha. Sasha tries a cover, TWO and Sonya has to let go. She slows Sasha down with a body shot, then dares her to put her hair up and square up! Body shot after shot from Sonya, she is all fired up now. She drags Sasha back to Absolution’s corner, tag to Mandy. Sasha fights back, Mandy clubs her down then chokes her on the rope. Mandy stretches Sasha on the ropes, tags to Sonya, they kick vice Sasha down. Paige applauds while Sonya covers, TWO. Sonya taunts Bayley, Sasha fights back, Sonya slows her down again. Sonya whips but Sasha kicks her away, double clotheslines bring both women down! Paige is furious while the fans rally. Hot tag to Mandy, and she intercepts Sasha before knocking Bayley down. Mandy brings Sasha back to ropes, Sonya gets a hot shot on her behidnt eh referee’s back! Small package surprise from Bayley, TWO! Bayley throws Sonya out, then throws hands. Mandy puts Sasha in a corner and whips corner to corner, but Sasha reverses! Bank Statement in full!

Mandy taps, Banks & Bayley win! Paige storms the ring but the best friends and Mickie get away. If the other women of Raw can pull Absolution apart, can they make sure Paige and her allies don’t win the Rumble?

 

Cedric Alexander and Goldust meet backstage.

Tonight’s Cruiserweight Championship, the Bizarre One encourages the #1 contender to “eat lightning ‘n’ crap thunder!” Then he reconsiders, considering that sounds unpleasant. Alexander thanks Goldust for the peptalk, but he doesn’t need one. He’s living the dream, and won’t let anyone stand in his way. Goldust can see his dream, but the one thing in the way is not Enzo Amore, or The ‘Zo Train. It’s Alexander. Alexander is in control, no one else. Thanks, Goldy. Now go out there and show them… Goldust’s voice can’t handle that. But Enzo won’t be able to handle Alexander! With Goldust’s faith behind him, can Alexander finally shut up the Trash Talker Skywalker?

 

WOKEN Matt Hardy VS Curt Hawkins!

The WOKEN Wisdom finally hits the ring in the WWE! Will Hardy DELETE Mr. Loss Streak once and for all?

The bell rings, Hawkins is very wary of the WOKEN One. Hawkins stays at the ropes, then sucker punches Hardy. He wrenches Hardy’s arm, Hardy bites Hawkins’ hand! Hardy hits back and then clubs away in the corner. Elbow to the back of the head then a swinging neckbreaker, Hardy is fired up. He German Suplexes Hawkins into buckles!

Hawkins elbows back, then hops up, but misses the crossbody. Hardy gives Hawkins DELETE DELETE buckle bumps, before the corner clothesline and Side Effect! Hardy declares DELETE before Twist of Fate! WOKEN Hardy wins, and Hawkins loses again.

But then Bray Wyatt wishes to respond, by appearing in the ring! The two beings of supernatural power stare each other down. And then laugh. And laugh, and laugh. Who will have the last laugh when the Great War is over?

 

“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”

The Drifter is in Memphis, and they don’t want him here. Elias doesn’t care, he still plays his guitar. “Now c’mon, that was good.” Elias has walked all over the world, met a million people and heard a million stories. One truth is that WWE stands for “Walk With Elias!” Tonight’s Raw is special, and there’s no better place to celebrate than Memphis. So please, silence cellphones, hold applause, this came from the heart. Elias plays again, “It’s January 8th, Elvis’ birthday–” Wait, what’s wrong with Elvis? He’s The King and Graceland’s only miles away. “There’s a star on the way, who has taken over the entertainment biz”, here comes the Miz!

Yes, the Hollywood A-Lister is back! He and his Miztourage head to the ring, and Memphis welcomes him back! “Did you miss me?” Yes! In that case, here is an impromptu episode of Miz TV! Marine 6 wrapped, the holiday tour is over, Miz is back on Raw! He is the glue that holds Raw together, and he thanks two people for keeping him in our minds: Bo Dallas & Curt Axel! They are living embodiments of a New Year’s Resolution done right.

The year 2017 was the best year of Axel’s life, and he thanks Miz for that. Having Miz’s wisdom was like winning the Mizzies, and Bo thanks him for that. They even start the chant, “Thank you, Miz!” Bo got Miz a present: a framed photo of himself. It was Bo’s personal night light. Axel does Bo one better! He takes off his jacket to give it right to Miz. Bo gives Miz his watch! Axel gives Miz his shoes. Miz gets them to stop fighting, and to sit down. Miz agrees, 2017 was an incredible year. He was an Intercontinental Champion and made everything he touched turn to gold! But Miz didn’t forget about The Shield. Their attack on him was an “indignity”, and Roman is merely borrowing that Intercontinental Championship! Miz wanted that title to be bigger than him, but Roman has failed. Miz will have his first child in 2018, and will become the longest reigning “single greatest” Intercontinental Champion of all time! The Miz will be the iconic IC Champion of this generation!

“So, Roman Reigns. I hope you enjoyed your time in the spotlight I allowed you to have.” Miz is going to end it. He is back, and is coming for that championship. Believe that. Mic drop from The Miz, can he follow through on his promise to The Big Dog?

 

The Balor Club talks backstage.

Enough nostalgia, let’s look to the future and talk strategy. They are talking strategy. Instead of throwing them back with Tama, Fale and the others, time to throw down with Reigns, Rollins & Jordan. Well alright, that’s a good point. New situation, same tactics. Just don’t let Anderson near Saigon brides. He’s already got a smoking hot Asian wife. True. Time to show the world 2018 is the Year of Balor Club. Too Sweet, fOreVER!

 

WWE Cruiserweight Championship: Enzo Amore VS Cedric Alexander!

The Certified G is no longer ill with the flu, now he must face his #1 contender in the Carolina Kid. He thanks Nia for the chicken noodle soup, but he did still watch last week’s Raw. And he saw The ‘Zo Train face Alexander and… Goldust? Well that’s the closest Alexander’s getting to gold in 2018! There’s only one word to describe him: S A W F T!

The bell rings, Enzo keeps Alexander back with jabs, then cowers at the ropes. Alexander backs off, but rocks Enzo with a right! Enzo is dazed, but he manages to slip out of the ring. The Bonafied Stud is upset, he trash talks, but then runs away from Alexander. Alexander rocks him with a swing kick, seeing through the cat and mouse. Nia Jax is watching as Alexander yanks Enzo off the ropes and dares the champ to fight.

Enzo crawls away but Alexander is right on him. The referee counts them both, so Alexander lets up, but Enzo dumps Alexander down and out! Alexander writhes in pain while Enzo gets back in the ring and we go to break.

Raw returns, Enzo grinds Alexander with a chinlock. They roll but Enzo holds on and squeezes Alexander tighter. Fans rally, Alexander feeds off the energy and gets up to then throws Enzo to buckles. Nia looks worried as Enzo flounders. Enzo sticks out a foot and drives Alexander down, cover, TWO! The Certified G keeps on Alexander by wrapping him int a modified clutch and clubbing away with crossface punches. Enzo shoves Alexander’s face into the mat, runs and dropkicks him, cover, TWO. Back to the chinlock, Alexander reaches for ropes. Fans rally again, Alexander gets up, and powers Enzo to a corner. Alexander backs off then runs back in, but into a knee. Enzo goes up, flies, but into a dropkick! Both men are down, Enzo crawls to ropes. Enzo rests against them before getting to his feet, Alexander just kip-ups. Alexander rallies, blocks a kick to give a back elbow. Alexander handsprings, to hit the Neuralizer enziguri!

TWO! Alexander can’t believe that didn’t work, Enzo is busted open! Alexander won’t let off, Enzo resists the Lumbar Check and then sends Alexander out, only for another kick to the face! Springboard lariat! Enzo rolls all the way out, Alexander FLIES! A major crash landing, Enzo’s foot is in pain! The medics come in to check Enzo while the ring count climbs up past 7. Alexander gets in, but Enzo lets it go out! Alexander wins with a count out, but that won’t get him the title, Enzo is still Cruiserweight Champion. When will Alexander get another chance at Enzo’s championship? Is Enzo even in shape to be champion after tonight?

 

Medics attend to Enzo Amore in the back.

That’s when Nia Jax visits to check on him. Enzo’s good, don’t worry about him. But that’s jsut a brave face. Is Enzo okay to compete?

 

The Bar visits Kurt Angle in his office.

They want their rematch for the Raw Tag Team Championships. But, Jordan is in a Six Man Tag to keep him away? They smell something: favoritism. When are they getting their rematch? Angle smells opportunity. They will have their match, at the Royal Rumble PPV. Sheamus & Cesaro are glad to hear it! As for tonight, they want competition. Well, head to the ring and meet your competition. The Bar heads down, who is Angle going to send them?

The Miz now visits Angle in his office.

Miz TV got the USA Network executives’ attention. Miz has a new unscripted series featuring himself and Maryse. He knows how to run a show, USA Network knows how to run a show, but apparently Angle doesn’t. Angle can give Miz his Intercontinental Championship rematch, on the 25th Anniversary episode of Raw. Angle agrees to give him that match. Can the A-Lister dethroned The Big Dog in two weeks?

 

Alexa Bliss talks with Asuka.

The Goddess isn’t here to talk fighting. The Empress was lucky to win against her, because Nia Jax is going to make Asuka pay for what she called her. Will the Brutal Beauty be ready for Asuka this time?

 

The Bar VS ???

The Celtic Gladiator & Swiss Cyborg were told to head to the ring, so they have. Who is it that the Olympic Gold Medalist has chosen to be their competition? None other than Titus Worldwide~!

The bell rings and the Real Deal CEO Titus starts against Sheamus. Sheamus doesn’t take him seriously as he keeps side-stepping and grinning. Titus rushes him, Sheamus gets to ropes, then gives him a cheap shot. Sheamus puts on a headlock, Titus powers out, then runs Sheamus over! Titus brings Sheamus over, tags in Apollo Crews, who gives Sheamus double ax handles. Sheamus powers Crews to his corner, tag to Cesaro for a running European Uppercut. He and Crews brawl but the EuroUpper rocks Crews down. Crews powers out of the chinlock and things speed up, dropkick drops Cesaro. Standing moonsault before the cover, TWO! Crews brings Cesaro up, Cesaro slips out of the suplex, tag to Sheamus. Crews whips but Sheamus pulls the ropes down, Crews crash lands and hurts his leg. Dana checks on Crews while The Bar boasts.

Sheamus gives Crews a big knee then throws him to the barriers. They return in the ring, Sheamus drags Crews and tags Cesaro. The Bar splits the wishbone, then Cesaro grinds Crews with a headlock. Cesaro keeps Crews grounded with a half-nelson, but Titus and the fans rally. Crews gets up, Cesaro tags to Sheamus, The Bar gives Crews the Bar Lariat. Sheamus adds a knee drop, covers, TWO! He keeps Crews grounded, Dana takes notes before cheering Crews on. The fans rally again, Crews works his way up and fights back. Sheamus slows him down with a knee, but Crews cradles, TWO. Sheamus misses in a corner and hits post! Cesaro tags in, hot tag to Titus! The Gator rallies on The Bar, boot for Cesaro! He fires up, lets out the barks, and squashes Cesaro in a corner before the powerslam, TWO! Titus keeps focus, dragging Cesaro up again. Sheamus distracts, Cesaro pounces and clobbers Titus. Cheap shot from Sheamus, tag in to Sheamus, they bring Titus up but Crews comes back in! He shoves Cesaro out and ASAIS him down, Titus rolls Sheamus, Titus Worldwide WINS! They shock The Bar, can they make major gains in the New Year? As for The Bar, how can they become Raw Tag Team Champions losing like this?

 

Memphis is Suplex City!

The Beast is back again after his confrontation with the Big Red Machine on last week’s Raw. The Advocate for the “reigning, defending, undisputed Universal Heavyweight Champion, BROCK LESNAR” hopes Memphis can appreciate the “credo in this industry” of “old school.” Heyman & Lesnar have respect for the Old School, but it won’t blind them to the fact that this industry is always in need of “new, fresh, innovative ways” to show the product. So forgive Heyman for being hypocritical, but there is something “very old school” that doesn’t help the product. Old school way of promoting a title match: find a challenger, a single man, to fight the champion. That one man must think they are the better man, and rise to be the new champion. But things have gotten away from that. It isn’t “who can defeat Lesnar?” It is “can Lesnar survive this scenario?” Heyman assures us, he isn’t complaining. Lesnar took the choke slam and sat up, to laugh! The match is Lesnar VS Kane VS Strowman: Beast VS Machine VS Monster, aka Champion VS Challenger #1 VS Challenger #2. Lesnar does not walk into the Rumble facing “How will Lesnar survive?” He goes in with “Will Lesnar pin Kane or Strowman? Or will he just stack them up on top of each other and pin them both?” Lesnar is THE most dominant champion in the WWE, no one has proven themselves able to out-fight him. Another mic drop from the Advocate, he and the Beast go to leave, but out comes KANE!

The Big Red Machine ambushes The Beast and fights him all the way off the stage and to the open area off to the side. They end up going backstage now, brawling all the way, when STROWMAN blindsides them both! He hurls Lesnar into trunks, then hurls a trunk into Kane! The Monster Among Men isn’t done, he opens up a trunk to search for something. A grappling hook? The security beg he not do what’s going on in his mind, but he still throws that hook up over the rafters, to bring them down on Kane and Lesnar!

No one can believe what he has just down to Beast and Machine, will there even be a triple threat at the Royal Rumble?!

 

Raw returns to the wreckage backstage.

Medics arrived over the break to help Brock Lesnar and Kane out from under the structure Strowman brought down upon them. Paul Heyman could only watch as Lesnar was helped to a stretcher and wheeled away. Kane dragged himself away, but wasn’t in much better shape. As Lesnar was brought to an ambulance, Heyman apologized to his client. Meanwhile, Kane simply walked away into the shadows. Lesnar refused to leave but not even Heyman would allow him. Has Strowman crossed a line?

 

Samoa Joe VS Rhyno w/ Heath Slater!

This is more of The ManBeast trying lead by example to toughen the One Man Band up. Has he chosen the wrong example in The Destroyer?

Raw returns and the bell rings. The two men circle, tie up, and Joe throws fast forearms. He backs off, Rhyno comes back with right hands of his own. Rhyno whips but is reversed, Joe hits the back elbow and Pele! Slater coaches RHyno back up, Joe chops Rhyno into the corner. Rhyno throws heavy hands, Joe hits back just as hard. Joe shows Slater what he’s gonna learn as he crossface punches RHyno. A stiff chop and kick from Joe but Slater rallies the fans for Rhyno. Joe keeps chopping, Rhyno fires up slowly. Rhyno chops back, whips but Joe kicks him away, standing STO! Cover, TWO, Joe is annoyed. He brings Rhyno up again, atomic drop then the boot, back senton on top. Cover, TWO, Joe is growing frustrated. Joe brings Rhyno up again, and throws right hands. Rhyno throws hands back, fireman’s carry but Joe slips out, into the Coquina Clutch! Rhyno goes down, taps, Joe wins! Joe glares at Slater, perhaps Slater & Rhyno will think twice before trying to toughen up the hard way.

In-ring interview with Samoa Joe.

The Destroyer won here tonight, but he must still be stinging from last Raw’s loss. Last week was no loss in Joe’s book. Roman’s “little win” was a “Pyrrhic victory.” That is to say, a victory that comes at such a cost, it was practically a loss. Joe beat years of Roman’s career, and the “cracks in the foundation are coming.” Roman will crumble and fall, and Joe will be there to finish him.

Until then, Joe will pursue worthier prey: the Royal Rumble! The other 29 men entering, such as Randy Orton, Shinsuke Nakamura, and John Cena– Cena? When it comes to Joe’s career, John Cena is a name that he will never forget. In the Royal Rumble, Joe promises to eliminate Cena first. The ultimatum has been sent, how will the other 29 men respond?

 

Alexa Bliss finds Nia Jax.

How is Enzo? He’s fine, not that she cares. She does care, because she cares about Nia. Nia is strong, pretty, smart and her best friend. Nia can do so much, but Alexa is just worried Enzo is going to hold her back. Enzo doesn’t hold her back, he motivates her. That’s why Nia is entering the Women’s Rumble. Great! Alexa is sure she’ll win. But, everyone else thinks Asuka will win. Maybe if Nia takes Asuka out first, then wins the Rumble herself, it can be best friends at Wrestlemania! Oh c’mon, Alexa, even Nia knows she’s just upset over losing to Asuka. That’s not true! And, Asuka’s said stuff, so– “Can it, Bliss.” Nia and Asuka are headed for each other eventually. But, what did Asuka say? Assuming she said anything. Okay, well, look, Alexa doesn’t want Nia to get upset. What did she say!? Don’t shoot the messenger but… Asuka said Nia… *whisper whisper* Wait, she said that? Wait, was it in Japanese first? Because Asuka doesn’t speak English. The Goddess got caught in her scheming, will it come back to haunt her?

 

Asuka VS ???

The Empress of Tomorrow doesn’t sweat taking on 29 other women in the inaugural Women’s Royal Rumble, because nobody is ready for Asuka! However, Asuka wasn’t ready for Nia’s ambush! Electric Chair Drop from the top rope! The Brutal Beauty goes after Asuka more, rolling senton!

She has sent a message to the undefeated odds-on favorite, as well as the other 28 women in the Rumble. Which one of these two titans of the Women’s (R)Evolution will take the spotlight on the Road to Wrestlemania?

 

Six Man Tag: The Balor Club VS Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins & Jason Jordan!

One trio is Too Sweet, the other is golden with titles, but which one is truly the elite trio in the WWE?

The leader of the Balor Club starts against the Architect of the “Champion’s Club”, a rematch from their Universal Championship match. The two circle and tie up, Finn gets a waistlock to headlock takeover, Rollins headscissors and then reverses roles with Finn, popping out of headscissors himself. Rollins kicks low and whips but Finn reverses. Sunset flip rolled through, dropkick to cover, TWO. Finn brings Rollins over, tag to Anderson. The Machine Gun gives Rollins a side backbreaker, cover, TWO. Anderson keeps Rollins grounded with an armlock, but Rollins stands up. Anderson tags Gallows, double back suplex escaped, The Big Dog tags in. He and Rollins rally on the Good Brothers, but then Finn comes in to rally on them. Finn runs, but into double shoulders. Rollins throws Finn out, The Good Brothers take a Drive-by Dropkick then Rollins slingshots onto Finn! The Shield Brothers are fired up, the Gold-Blooded Son comes in to excitedly celebrate before we go to break.

Raw returns, and Finn keeps Rollins grounded with an armlock while fans rally for him. Rollins gets up and fights back with right hands, but Finn keeps him from tagging out by whipping him to The Club’s corner. Rollins knocks the Good Brothers down then gives Finn a buckle shot! Finn staggers, Rollins slips under, tag to Roman! Roman rallies on Finn, whip reversed but the jumping lariat knocks Finn down. The Big Dog gives the Extraordinary Man close-range clothesline in the corner then slings Finn out for a boot! Finn is down but Roman fires up. Roman locks and loads, but has to knock The Good Brothers away again, Slingblade from Finn! Finn tags Anderson, he rains rights down on Roman. Cover, TWO, but Anderson keeps on Roman. Anderson throws hands in the Balor Club cover and tags Gallows. Gallows rocks Roman with right hands, then brings Roman up for a big roundhouse. Cover, TWO, but a close one. Gallows grinds Roman with a chinlock, fans duel “Let’s go, Roman!” “Roman Sucks!” Roman gets to his feet and fights out with body shots, but Gallows yanks him down by his hair. Tag to Anderson, he stomps on Roman. Anderson forces Roman to lie down, big knee drop, cover, TWO. Anderson keeps Roman down with the chinlock. Roman gasps for air as fans continue to duel and make noise. Roman reaches for his corner, but Anderson wrenches him away. The fans keep making noise as Roman powers out, but Anderson gives him a right hand to slow him down. Anderson runs, into a tilt-o-whirl sideslam!

Both men are down, their teams are rabid for tags. Anderson and Rmoan crawl, tag to Gallows who stomps on Roman. Gallows brings Roman up, for a snap suplex! Cover, TWO, so Gallows drives elbows into Roman’s shoulder. Back to the chinlock, fans keep dueling. Roman stands up again and fights out with heavy right hands. He runs, but into the boot for Gallows, to SUPERMAN PUNCH outta nowhere! The fans and the teams are both fired up again, hot tags to Anderson and Rollins! Rollins rallies on The Balor Club, Blockbuster to Anderson before giving Gallows & Finn a DIVE! The Kingslayer keeps moving, Slingblade to Anderson! He goes corner to corner for the forearm smash, suplex and roll-through to Falcon Arrow! TWO, to Rollins’ surprise. Rollins keeps focus on Anderson, calling for the knee. Anderson gets a ropebreak, Gallows pries Rollins off. Rollins fights back, Jordan takes Gallows out with a clothesline. SPINEBUSTER from Anderson to Rollins, TWO! Anderson and Rollins are down from exhaustion, Jordan is the only man on the “Champion’s Club” corner. Rollins can’t escape Anderson, tag to Gallows. Gallows takes out Jordan but Rollins hits the PELE! Rollins and Gallows are down again, but Roman is back. Finn tags in, but Rollins counters his Slingblade with a back suplex! Roman wants in so bad, and Rollins crawls over, but Jordan comes in and distracts! The tag is made but doesn’t count! Rollins takes MAGIC KILLER! Roman still fights The Good Brothers off, then asks Jordan what he was thinking.

Jordan doesn’t think he did a thing, and doesn’t help Roman when he’s against the Good Brothers. Roman gives Anderson a SUPERMAN PUNCH and Gallows a SPEAR! Jordan stands Rollins up, only for Rollins to take Finn’s blasting dropkick! Finn then takes Jordan out with a forearm, and climbs up top! Coup De Grace!! The Balor Club wins! Their friendship and unity is just Too Sweet, but what will the fallout be within the Raw Tag Team Champions?

No time to worry about that, The Miztourage attacks! Miz takes Jordan out whiel Bo and Axel go after Roman! Miz also takes Rollins out and joins his henchmen in the ring to make it 3v1 on Roman. They haul Roman up, Miz gives him the Skull Crushing Finale!

That’s just the beginning, as The Miztourage wants to give us a sequel to their parody Shield Triple Powerbomb!! The former Intercontinental Champion makes a major statement and sends a message to the current Intercontinental Champion. Will The Hollywood A-Lister restart his historic IC Championship legacy with the Raw 25th Anniversary show?

 

My Thoughts:

This was a great episode of Raw, very strong from start to finish. Paige acting as manager for Absolution while she recovers makes perfect sense, she should’ve done more of that so the in-ring focus would be on the newer superstars. It even works that they lose tonight, to keep Bayley & Sasha strong before the Rumble, as well as frame it as the Rose & Sonya still needing Paige to be strong. WOKEN Hardy wins his debut because he should, and it helps Hawkins grow his historic losing streak. The laughing stare-down between Hardy and Wyatt was also great. These two don’t need to be physical until the Rumble, and then whatever over-the-top off-site match they end up having. I didn’t expect Enzo to retain his title the way he did, but it all still works in favor of his Heel character. It also helps his story with Nia, and Nia’s own story in the Women’s Division, which was great tonight. Nia going after Asuka is great because now it gives us two front-runners for Women’s Rumble winners. I love that The Bar got upset by Titus Worldwide, Titus & Apollo have been waiting a long time to do much of anything, so perhaps they can find a way into the tag team title scene in 2018.

I hope Rhyno & Slater failing to “toughen up” won’t lead them to breaking up. We lost Raw tag teams in 2018 that we shouldn’t have, so maybe Rhyno & Slater are instead building to that moment when they finally get a “tough win” and we can all celebrate with them like when they won the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. Meanwhile, Joe calling his shot while also calling out John Cena, that is setting up a top tier feud for 2018. The interactions of Roman, Rollins & Jordan were spot on for how they should be, and I actually liked Jordan giving off this vibe that he wanted to be New Dean Ambrose with how he paraphrased Ambrose’s dialogue from when the Shield reunited. The Balor Club take a Tweener role right now, as they should. There were also great references from commentary about the Bullet Club, and I am glad to see The Balor Club gets a win off of the story building between Jordan and Rollins. The Miz also continues where he left off, in a good way, and his rematch with Roman could go either way. Lastly, holy crap Braun Strowman continues to be the best thing in wrestling with yet another uncanny feat of strength. His not being champion yet is a shame but he still has all of 2018 to get there, and I have no doubt he will.

My Score: 8.5/10

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Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (6/20/25)

One step closer to the end!

Published

11 hours ago

on

June 20, 2025

By

Can the Last Real Champion handle The Truth?

While the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments reach their semifinals, John Cena has his first match on SmackDown in years, against Ron Killings!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss; Asuka wins and advances to Night of Champions.
  • Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson; No Contest.
  • King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn; Orton wins and advances to Night of Champions.
  • Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice; Charlotte wins.
  • Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight; Knight wins, by disqualification.
  • John Cena VS Ron Killings; Killings wins, by disqualification.

PLAY BY PLAY

LA Knight is here!

Grand Rapids fires up as the Mega Star marches right to the ring. Knight grabs a mic while the fans chant his name, and he says, “LEMME TALK TO YA!” The fans cheer, and Knight says, “Let’s just go ahead and rewind our mind a little bit. We go to back to Money in the Bank, Seth and his boys, they just happen to come down and screw this guy.” The fans boo that. Knight says usually, he lets things slide. But he just figured he couldn’t let it slide, so he made sure to screw on of Rollins’ boys in their title opportunity, King of the Ring. But then they came back, paid it back and screwed Knight outta KOTR, so he had to go and screw the other one over!

And it just has Knight thinking. Fans “YEAH!” and Knight says there is only one way this can go. He has gone back and forth between Raw and SmackDown, where it ends, nobody knows! Except Knight! He knows! He knows where this ends! The fans cheer that! And Knight says it ends with him and Rollins! And what better place than here? And what better time than now! Knight tells Rollins to come on out and talk to him! But “Ladies and gentlemen…” The fans boo as Paul Heyman walks out and gives his introductions. He serves as the Wise Man to Mr. Money in the Bank, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins!

Heyman says you do not boo that name. And you screwed up your cue, so they’ll do this again. He serves as the Wise Man for Seth Freakin’ Rollins! The fans keep booing, Heyman wants to try again, but Knight says shut up and get to the point! Why is Heyman here?! Heyman walks to the ring and asks permission to step inside. The fans chant “O T C! O T C!” but Knight steps back. Heyman steps into the ring, and he says yes, there has been a lot of bad blood between Knight and Mr. MITB, Seth Freakin’ Rollins. However, Heyman happens to be, with all due respect to everyone here in Grand Rapids, Michigan…

The fans chant “C M PUNK!” at Heyman now and he frowns. Knight says Heyman has a lot of enemies. Heyman says he is the biggest LA Knight fan in all of WWE! Heyman’s been waiting a long time to say this: YEAH! Now, because of that, Seth Freakin’ Rollins (the fans boo again) has allowed Heyman to say to Knight, as a favor to Heyman… It is time for Knight to get the hell outta Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because if he does not, something really bad is going to happen to him before the end of the night. Have a nice evening. Heyman turns to go but the fans cheer Knight on. Knight says he couldn’t help but notice, but did you~ (poking fun at Heyman’s voice cracking) threaten Knight?

Because Knight wants to wrap his head around this. He’s heard Heyman say stuff like this before, because Heyman is a liar, a swindler, a grifter, a scammer and a schemer! Heyman leeches on to any talent that has a bit of hype, sucks ’em dry, then moves on to the next! Rollins just happens to be the latest in this. But where next? Who cares! But the bottom line is, Knight asked for Rollins but he got Heyman. And while he got Heyman, he got a Heyman out here talking all tough. So it has Knight thinking, he has a great idea.

Talking about wise man, wisdom, there was a point in time if Heyman had said something like that, a man like Knight would look at a “thing” like Heyman and punched his wisdom teeth down his throat! Knight won’t do that, yet. But here’s the deal: Heyman’s talking all tough, but if he can’t bring Rollins out here, then the only thing to do out here in Grand Rapids is Knight fighting Heyman here and now! The fans fire up for that! Knight asks if the fans want that, and they cheer! “HUH?” “YEAH!” “HUH?” “YEAH!” “YEAH!!” Knight promises he’ll turn around, take his vest off, and Heyman gets the first shot. He better make it good, or Knight will molly whop his ass right outta Grand Rapids!

The fans fire up as Knight does as promised. He turns around, his vest is off, but Heyman bails? The fans boo as the Wise Man doesn’t play along. Heyman says, “Remember when I told you to get the hell out of Grand Rapids or else something really bad is gonna happen to you before the end of the night? That wasn’t a prediction. That… was a spoiler!” Heyman throws down his mic, and here comes Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker! Rollins’ behemoths head to the ring, but Knight fires off on them first! The fans rally as Knight throws hands and feet, but then Bron TACKLES Knight! Bronson joins in and they mug Knight right out of the ring!

Bronson drags Knight up to TOSS him over barriers! Bron clears the desk, he wants Bronson to put Knight through it! But Knight has a chair! He JAMS Bron, JAMS Bronson, then SMACKS Bron and SMACKS Bronson! Knight gets in the ring, ready to hit whoever gets in! The fans cheer Knight but Heyman has Bron & Bronson stand down. Will Heyman have the henchmen try again before the end of tonight?

 

SmackDown returns and…

Heyman has Bron & Bronson calm down, they have this under control. It is all in their favor, and it always will be in their favor. That is the whole point behind this. Byron Saxton steps in and wants to talk to them, but Heyman has to hold Bron back like the dog he is! Heyman says no need to bite Byron. Byron apologizes, he has word from SmackDown GM, Nick Aldis, that Bronson Reed VS LA Knight is set for tonight. Heyman says okay, thank you, and goodbye. Byron leaves and Heyman smiles. He told them! Patience is not a virtue, it is strategy. Bronson smiles and nods. Will Auzsilla destroy LA here in Grand Rapids?

 

Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss!

Two great returns to action through this tournament, and now they cross paths with each other. The Empress of Tomorrow overcame Ivy Nile, Raquel Rodriguez and Stephanie Vaquer while Lil’ Miss Bliss outsmarted Alba Fyre, Candice LeRae and Charlotte Flair. But whose comeback story overtakes the other’s here just one match away from Night of Champions?

The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Alexa headlocks, but Asuka powers up and out. Alexa RAMS Asuka, Asuka roars, and the fans fire up as Asuka fires hands! Alexa blocks a kick to THROW Asuka down, then basement DROPKICK! The fans cheer as Asuka and Alexa reset. Alexa kicks, Asuka blocks and slips through to waistlock. Alexa elbows free, runs, but Asuka runs past her to then RUN her over! The fans fire up and Asuka runs in again, HIP ATTACK! Alexa falls to the floor and the fans fire up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Asuka lets Alexa stay down while she soaks up the cheers. The ring count starts, Alexa rises, but Asuka goes out after her. Alexa slips inside and DROPKICKS Asuka’s leg! Asuka falls from the apron but she has to nod respect for that savvy move. Asuka steps back in at 6 of 10, and she resets with Alexa. They circle, feel things out, and tie up. Asuka wrenches and wristlocks, but Alexa rolls and wrenches to hammerlock. Alexa waistlocks, rolls Asuka, TWO! The two stand off again and they both nod respect. They reset, the fans rally up, and the two feel things out. Asuka trips Alexa, clamps on with a headlock, and she grinds Alexa down.

Alexa endures, Asuka turns her over to go after the arm, then she stands on Alexa’s arm. Alexa endures, Asuka shifts arms, but Alexa wrenches out to wrangle Asuka. Alexa shifts to a cording hold, but Asuka fights up and fires body shots. Alexa whips Asuka to a corner, but Asuka elbows her away! And BOOTS! Asuka goes up, leaps, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Alexa stays in this but Asuka stays focused. Asuka drags Alexa around and gives her Kawada Kicks! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Asuka wrenches for a chicken wing! Alexa fights the Asuka Lock and JAWBREAKERS free! Alexa runs up to RUN Asuka over!

The fans rally as Alexa rallies, then hits a BLOCKBUSTER! The fans fire up as Alexa SLAPS, ROCKS, and KNEES Asuka down! Then SOMERSAULT SENTON! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and Alexa grows frustrated. The fans rally while Alexa brings Asuka up. Asuka breaks free to URAKEN, SOBAT, FRONT KICK, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Alexa tumbles away, Asuka runs up, SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up as Asuka stands and takes aim. But Alexa ducks the buzzsaw! Cover, TWO! Alexa clinches, TWISTED- NO, Asuka rolls Alexa up! TWO! Alexa sits up, BUZZSAW! Cover, TWO!! Alexa survives but Asuka just fires up!

The fans rally as Asuka goes to the corner. Asuka climbs from the outside, and MISSILE- NO, Alexa dodges this time! Alexa kicks and DDTS! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Alexa drags Asuka into the drop zone. Alexa goes up, up, and the fans fire up! TWISTED- NO, Asuka moves, so Alexa stops. Alexa won’t let Asuka sneak away, but then she gets caught in an ARMBAR!! Alexa flails, rolls, but ends up in an omoplata! RINGS OF SATURN!! Alexa fights around, pops her arm free for a cover, TWO!! Asuka reels Alexa in, NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!!

The fans fire up as Alexa stays in this! Asuka fires up, the fans are with her, and she runs up, only for Alexa to ROCK her with a right! Alexa puts Asuka in the Tree of Woe, and she DROPKICKS Asuka out of it! Alexa climbs back up, and TWISTED BLISS onto knees!! Asuka still counters the moonsault, and hits the EMPRESS IMPACT!! Cover, Asuka wins!

Winner: Asuka, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)

The Empress says no one is ready for Asuka, and that has certainly been the case! But on Raw, we find out, will it be Jade Cargill or Roxanne Perez that meets Asuka in Saudi Arabia?

 

Jade Cargill, Mia Yim & B-Fab watch backstage.

And Fab says damn, Asuka just came back and she’s already making statements. Almost like she never left. Michin says maybe they need to make their own statements. They need to talk to Aldis about the tag titles. Fab agrees. Fab & Mia wish Jade luck before heading out. Byron walks in and asks if he can have a word. Jade says shoot. Byron says Asuka just advanced, but Jade has her match on Monday with Roxanne Perez. How does Jade feel about facing a talented competitor like Roxie? And how does she feel about the possibility of facing Asuka in the finals? Jade says “Rox” has potential. Roxie is quick and scrappy.

But she’s still trying to prove herself. And this isn’t a proving ground, this is a throne room, and Jade was built for royalty. As for Asuka, there’s a storm on the horizon. But news flash, Jade is that storm. This entire tournament wasn’t built for the future, but for a woman who can walk through fire, shatter glass ceilings, and take her crown on the way to the top. This Queen of the Ring, Jade isn’t just walking in to win. She’s here to reign. Will the Prodigy be washed away by the storm this Monday?

 

Alexa Bliss returns backstage.

And Chelsea Green finds her. Flanked by her Secret Her-vice, The Hot Mess asks, “Hey, little fu-fu, how’s your boo-boo?” Alexa asks back, “How’s yours?” Piper tells Chelsea not to get upset, Alexa is just jealous. Chelsea says this serves Alexa right. Chelsea should be Queen of the Ring, and she’d be building her parliament if not for Alexa! Oh, if she has that big of an issue, then try facing her in the ring. Chelsea says she will! But then Charlotte Flair walks in and says if anyone should’ve still been in this tournament, it’s her. But had Chelsea’s “replacement” tapped out sooner, maybe she would.

So here’s the deal: Charlotte will have a match made and tap Chelsea out instead. N-Not if Chelsea makes it a bank holiday! ROYAL DUTIES! NICHOLAS! Chelsea hurries away with the Secret Her-vice following, and Alexa tells Charlotte that she doesn’t need Charlotte’s help. Oh, that’s cute. Because Charlotte wasn’t helping Alexa. Charlotte leaves now, leaving Alexa to chew on that. Will The Queen chew up the Hot Mess and spit her out now that she has nothing better to do?

 

Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson!

The Dark Father is also directionless now that he is out of the King of the Ring tournament, but he never lets that bother him. Will he make himself the direction all roads lead when things #FadeToBlack? Or will Kit prove he can be Pretty Deadly all on his own?

Wait, who is attacking Kit? It’s R-TRUTH! But why’s Ron Killings going after Kit?! He POSTS Kit, drags him back out, and puts him in an STF!! The fans fire up and Kit taps, but it won’t matter when this isn’t a match! Killings lets Kit out of the hold and demands a mic. A mic is given, and Killings says, “Get John Cena out here now. I’m driving! On my terms! Cena, get out here!” The fans fire up and then Killings puts Kit back in the STF! Aleister is rather confused, but producers hurry out here to stop Truth. Truth lets Kit go, Jamie Noble asks Truth wait for the main event. Truth seethes, but he accepts the terms.

Killings leaves, walking right past Aleister. Will there be no denying The Truth when he finally gets his hands on the Last Real Champion?

 

Jamie Noble talks with Truth backstage.

Jamie says Truth has to calm down. Truth says he wants John Cena NOW! He’s driving! Yes, okay, but just wait. Truth promises that when he sees Cena, he is killing him tonight! Aleister steps in and asks Truth why he is getting involved in Aleister’s match. Truth says it wasn’t personal, it had nothing to do with Aleister. These two stare down, and then Damian Priest steps in. The Archer of Infamy has Aleister stand down. Truth is going through a lot, let Priest talk to him. Oh, of course. Aleister says, “Ron.” “Black.” Aleister leaves, Priest tells Truth that there’s no need for any of that. Priest gets Truth is frustrated, but he can’t just go beat up people for no reason.

Priest used to do that, and Truth was the guy there to make him smile. Truth made the world smile! All that anger and negativity, focus that on the match tonight. Focus that on John Cena. Go out there and handle business with Cena, then Priest and Truth can go downtown to celebrate. How’s that sound? Truth says sounds good, DP. They shake hands, and Priest heads out. Truth is still seething, but will he make sure it all explodes on Cena?

 

Cody Rhodes is here!

Grand Rapids sings along as The American Nightmare makes his way out, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, he high-fives fans in the front row, then looks closely at the King of the Ring’s crown. Cody goes to the ring and grabs the mic. He hears the fans cheer him on, but then Jey Uso is here! The fans fire up as Main Event Jey makes his way down through the crowd! A young fan joins in bouncing along, but so does all of Grand Rapids! Jey continues down the stands, finds another young fan, and they bounce along again. Jey then reaches ringside, high-fives the front row, and he joins Cody in the ring as we get the next wave of YEET!

Grand Rapids might want to YEET all night, but Jey hugs it out with Cody before he gets his own mic. The music dies down, the fans chant, “One More Time! One More Time!” and Cody says sure, one more is fine. Jey says okay, and yes, the fans get to YEET again! Jey says hey, Cody doesn’t even have to say nothing. They been in the trenches! “YEET!” Still in the trenches! “YEET!” From fighting The Bloodline… “YEET!” To winning tag titles… “YEET!” To finishing their stories at WrestleMania! “YEET!” They’ve both been to the mountaintop. “YEET!” But Cody, on Monday, there is only room for one of them.

The fans are intrigued, and Cody nods. Jey says there’s only one that can go. Cody VS Jey, Jey VS Cody, and Jey knows Cody will bring it. Jey has to get his, Uce. He has to, just like Cody has to get his. But that said, Uce, it ain’t personal. This all business. But that all said, too, Uce, on Monday, after they go to war, please believe that it will be four letters, one word, uh uh… YEET! Cody smiles and the fans cheer. They shake hands again, and wait! Here comes Sami Zayn! The fans cheer as the Great Liberator makes his way to the ring. Sami grabs a mic to say, “This is nice, isn’t it? I get to share the ring with two great friends.”

The fans applaud, and Sami says he is in the ring with two of the very best that this business has to offer! The fans cheer that, too! Sami says he’d be lying if he denied there was a part of him that sees the three of them in this ring, and notices how only one of them has never been world champion. Jey, Sami wants him to know, man to man, this year, Sami missed Mania. Sami had no reason to be in Las Vegas, but he got his ass on a plane to Vegas for one reason: To congratulate Jey the moment he won the World Heavyweight Championship! Sami loves Jey, and he is proud of him. And Cody, for years, everyone watched as Cody finished his story.

And when Cody did, he did the unthinkable and pinned Roman Reigns in the middle of this ring, Sami was the first one out here to congratulate Cody. Sami is so proud that Cody finished his story. So he hopes both men understand that now, it is time for Sami to finish HIS story! The fans cheer, but then here comes Randy Orton! The Viper looks at the crown, then goes to the ring. The fans sing along with Voices and Orton grabs himself a mic. “So Cody, same deal as last week but I’m gonna say it again. There is no line I will not cross, even if it means going through you, so that I can get to John Cena at SummerSlam, beat him, and get my FIFTEENTH world championship!”

The fans cheer, and Orton tells Jey, “Man, I respect the… Hell outta you, dude. Our families go way, way, way back. Nothing but love, dude. But if you’re standing across the ring from me at SummerSlam, it’s not gonna be four letters, one word. It’s gonna be three letters, one move.” The fans say it, “R K O!” And Orton says he not only speaks for himself but for everyone here in this arena when he says, and from the bottom of his heart, one day and one day soon, Sami Zayn will be world champion. But not at SummerSlam. Because tonight, Sami is on the receiving end of the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment: R K O.

Orton drops the mic, and it is time to put those words into action. Will it be the Legend Killer or the Underdog from the Underground that heads for Saudi Arabia?

King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn!

SmackDown returns, the bell rings, and these two circle. They tie up, Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, then wristlocks. Orton endures, fights up, and the fans duel. Orton wrenches Sami in return to then headlock. Sami endures, powers up to wrench again, and he grinds the arm. Sami wrenches and CHOPS, and Orton goes to the corner. Sami CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! The fans “WOO~” but the ref counts. Orton pushes past Sami, bails out of the ring, and he is pretty red already. Sami builds speed but he fakes Orton out with the Arabian Press! The fans fire up and Orton has to admit that was good.

Orton goes up the steps and steps back into the ring. The fans rally, Orton and Sami tie up, and Orton puts Sami in the corner. Orton lets off slowly, but he pokes Sami in the eyes! The fans boo but Orton UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! But Sami pokes Orton in the eyes! The ref caught that one and reprimands Sami. Sami TOSSES Orton out, goes to the apron, but Orton YANKS Sami down! Sami hits off the apron, and Orton reels him in, DESK BACK SUPLEX! Sami writhes and Orton rolls into the ring, just to refresh the count. Fans want that “One More Time!” and Orton agrees! DESK BACK SUPLEX again!

Sami writhes more and whatever monitor wasn’t busted, they’re busted now! Orton leaves Sami behind for a moment while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Orton goes out to fetch Sami, but Sami fights off a third back suplex! Orton kicks low, brings Sami over, but Sami blocks the smack off the steel steps! Orton sputters, Sami stalks him, and Sami decides to give him some payback! But Orton ROCKS Sami first! Orton SMACKS Sami off the desk, puts him in the ring, and covers, TWO! Sami stays in this but Orton looms over him. Sami rises, Orton puts him in a corner, and Orton fires body shots. Orton climbs up and rains down fists! Orton gets to eight before Sami fires back! Sami has Orton in another corner, climbs up, and Sami rains down a fast TEN!

Sami huffs ‘n’ puffs and CHOPS! Orton is stinging but Sami CHOPS him again! Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, and whips! Orton reverses, Sami hits buckles hard, and Sami falls in a heap. Orton dusts himself off and looms over Sami again. Orton stomps Sami’s hand! Sami writhes and clutches his finger. Orton stomps Sami’s foot, ten the other foot! And then the other hand! Sami sits up, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Orton CLUBS away on Sami’s chest! Orton DECKS Sami, the fans cheer, and Orton brings Sami up. Orton whips, Sami goes up and over, and Sami LARIATS Orton down! The fans fire up again as Sami rises!

Sami goes to the corner, Orton runs up, but Sami ELBOWS him! Sami goes up, AX HANDLES, and the fans fire up more! Orton takes a swing, but Sami slips around! Orton fights the Blue Thunder, then LARIATS! And LARIATS! Orton dodges Sami to SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up while Sami goes to the apron. Orton drags Sami in through the ropes, and DRAPING DDTS! The fans fire up as Orton hears those voices! Orton watches Sami rise, but then Sami bails out! The fans are torn but Sami is smart to avoid what was coming. Orton goes out to fetch Sami, SMACKS him off the desk, and then back suplexes, only for Sami to lands out!

Sami CLUBS Orton, and hits a DESK BACK SUPLEX on Orton! Sami puts Orton in the ring, goes to a corner, and the fans fire up as Orton rises. Orton runs in, Sami dodges, and Orton POSTS himself! Sami runs corner to corner, HELLUVA- SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Sami survives and Orton seethes. “This is Awesome!” as Sami goes back to a corner. Orton runs back in and he LARIATS! Orton runs but Sami follows! But Orton dodges the Helluva Kick! Sami gets stuck on the to rope, frees himself, and hobbles into an RK- NO! BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Orton survives and the fans fire up again!

“This is Awesome!” as Sami drags Orton to the drop zone. Sami goes up the corner, Orton stands and he gets under the leap! R K- NO, Sami SLAMS Orton down! And then HELLUVA- RKO!!! Orton crawls to the cover, Orton wins!!

Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)

Sami fought his heart out, but the Viper still strikes! Orton is going back to back in KOTR finals, but will he win the crown this time?

 

Nia Jax is here!

Grand Rapids boos as The Irresistible Force goes to the ring. She grabs the mic dot say, “You know what’s crazy? Tiffany Stratton approached me to be under my wing, because she knew exactly what I could do for her. And look, she’s thriving! And what kind of thanks did I get for it? She betrayed me. She has MY title!” But wait, here comes Tiffy! Grand Rapids cheers as the WWE Women’s Champion has the mic to tell Nia, “You’re like that toxic ex I just can’t get away from. News flash: get over it! You make excuse after excuse, but when are you just gonna admit that maybe I’m just better than you?”

The fans cheer and Tiff heads to the ring. Nia says yeah, okay, if Tiff is so much better, then give Nia a rematch without kicking a chair into her face. Tiff says if Nia’s so desperate for a match, it is her lucky day! She made it official for next week: Tiff VS Nia! And Tiff will have more fun adding more scars to that “five head” of Nia’s. Because it won’t just be a regular match. It will be Last Woman Standing! Nia takes a swing but Tiff dodge! Tiff fires off, kicks low, and runs up, but into a POP-UP HEADBUTT! And then Nia drops a leg, brother! Nia holds up the belt and soaks up the heat. Nia thinks about leaving, but decides to add on! ANOTHER leg drop, brother!

The fans boo but Nia says that’s not enough! Nia tells Wade & Joe that she’s taking the title! But wait! NAOMI is here, with a ref! Is she doing it!? Is she doing it?! But Nia YANKS Naomi out! Naomi tells her back off! Nia doesn’t, Naomi shoves her, but Nia still grabs at her! Tiff DROPKICKS Naomi onto Nia! Tiff avoids a cash-in because Nia was in the way, but is she setting herself up for failure with that extreme title match?

 

Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice!

The Queen was denied her crown, but she’s not even angry at Alexa Bliss, the one who took that opportunity from her. She instead looks to humble the Hot Mess that claims she would be queen if her demands were met. Who vents their frustrations and comes away with the win?

SmackDown returns and Charlotte makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans actually cheer on Chelsea. Alba distracts Charlotte and Chelsea sucker punches her! The ref reprimands but Chelsea SMACKS Charlotte off the mat again and again! Chelsea salutes, but Charlotte CHOPS! Chelsea KNEES low, whips, but Charlotte goes up and out at the corner. Charlotte BOOTS Chelsea away, avoids Alba and KICKS her! Chelsea runs up, Charlotte RAMS her, and then Charlotte climbs up. CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Chelsea scrambles away and Charlotte runs up, but into an ELBOW! Charlotte GAMANGIRIS!

Charlotte snapmares, Chelsea distracts the ref, and Alba grabs Charlotte by the hair! Alba HOTSHOTS Charlotte and Chelsea hits a BACKSTABBER! Cover, TWO! Chelsea is furious but Charlotte stays in this, and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Chelsea hops onto Charlotte for a SLEEPER! The fans rally, but Charlotte hits a BACKPACK SENTON! Charlotte is free, Chelsea runs back up, but Charlotte gives her a BACKBREAKER and BUCKLE SHOT! Chelsea falls back, Charlotte huffs ‘n’ puffs and runs up to fire hands! The fans fire up as Charlotte CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS! Charlotte CHOPS again, then clinches for an EXPLODER! And a kip up! The fans fire up and Charlotte salutes to poke fun at Chelsea. Charlotte runs, dodges, and handsprings to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Chelsea survives but Charlotte stays on her by going for a leg.

Alba gets on the apron, so Charlotte BOOTS her down! The fans cheer, but Charlotte turns around into a ROUGH RYDER! Cover, TWO!! Charlotte survives and Chelsea is furious! Chelsea takes off her face protector and drags Charlotte up. Chelsea has the arms, turns Charlotte, but Charlotte shoves her away! Charlotte dodges and SPEARS! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea survives but Charlotte has the leg! FIGURE- CRADLE!! TWO!! Charlotte has the leg again, FIGURE FOUR! And the bridge for the FIGURE EIGHT!! Chelsea TAPS, Charlotte wins!

Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission

But then Piper Niven SENTONS onto Charlotte!! Alba storms in, she and Piper mug Charlotte, but here comes Alexa! She RAMS into Piper, she ROCKS Alba, then she catches Chelsea! Charlotte LARIATS Alba out while Alexa hits a TWISTED SISTER ABIGAIL! And then Charlotte BOOTS Piper down! Charlotte and Alexa look at each other, and despite what either one thinks, maybe they both need the other after all. Alexa offers the handshake, but Charlotte walks right past Alexa. Alexa lets that slide, but will Charlotte come around soon enough?

 

Solo Sikoa talks with JC Mateo.

Why is JC taping up? Uh, duh, he’ll take out Jacob. No, Solo is going out there alone to talk with Jacob. Solo was the only one that Jacob would listen to. Jacob needs Solo. Solo will smooth things over. JC accepts that, but Solo does say that JC should stay ready. Solo is covering his bases, but will he need the Imperial Unit to put down the Samoan Werewolf? Or will it all be alright between them all?

 

Solo Sikoa heads to the ring.

SmackDown returns as the former Tribal Chief makes his way out, and Grand Rapids boos. Solo grabs the mic, takes a moment, and says, “Alright, Jacob. I’m out here in the middle of the ring, all alone, with open arms, willing to talk to you face to face. I feel terrible about what happened. So if you’re back there, come on out so we can clear the air.” Jacob Fatu makes his entrance and Grand Rapids cheers! Fatu holds up the United States Championship before he steps into the ring, and he has a mic of his own. The fans cheer on “FATU! FATU!” and Solo says he didn’t come out here to fight him, okay? He’s not here for that.

Solo wants to make it clear to Fatu that he loves him, always has loved him, no matter what. One thing Solo learned from being Tribal Chief is how to love family and how to take care of them. That’s all he’s trying to do. Families fight all the time. They fight, they argue, they forgive, and then they move forward. So they should move forward together, Jacob. Move forward as one. The fans boo that, but Solo says nobody saw the potential in Jacob except Solo. Nobody wanted Jacob here in the WWE, except Solo. That is why Solo brought Fatu here and gave him the chance to change his life and put food on his family’s table.

And why did Solo do that? Because Solo loves Jacob. He does. And to be honest, Solo doesn’t have anybody else. Fatu isn’t sure about that, but Solo says all he has is Fatu. And he’s all Solo needs. So come back to the family, and even if Jacob doesn’t say those four words, Solo will. Solo will say it for him, to him, loud enough so everybody can hear it! Solo tells Jacob, “I love you, Jacob.” The fans boo, they don’t trust this. Fatu paces as he thinks on that. “So you love me, huh?” Solo nods yes. So this is what it comes down to, huh? Solo loves Fatu? The way Fatu sees things, Solo has been using Fatu! Solo has been using Fatu to gain power, to fight his battles, and to stay Tribal Chief.

Hell, Solo brought Fatu in so Fatu could bring Solo fame! Solo brought Fatu in because he thought Fatu would bring him gold! Is that all this is about? Fame? Gold? Power? SOLO, LOOK AT HIM! Solo looks up from the floor while the fans cheer Fatu on. Fatu tells Solo that ever since he won the US Championship, Solo is the one that’s been acting different. And maybe Fatu isn’t the problem. Fatu just figured it out! The problem… is this. The problem is the US Championship. Fatu sets it down between him and Solo, and he says if this is what he thinks it is, then just fight him for it! Fight Fatu for the title! The fans fire up for that!

And Solo, Fatu will only warn you one time: If you ever think about coming this way, you know what Fatu is about! You know what’s poppin’ with Fatu, blood! And you know Jacob Fatu is all gas, no brakes with it! YADADADA- SOLO TAKES A SWING! Fatu blocks the spike and he HEADBUTTS! JC Mateo rushes out here! Fatu HEADBUTTS him, too! But Solo CHOP BLOCKS the legs! The fans boo but JC & Solo mug Fatu! But then here comes JIMMY USO! The fans fire up as #BigJim slides in, dodges Solo, and SUPERKICKS JC! And then he SUPERKICKS Solo! But JC LARIATS Jimmy down! JC HAMMERS Jimmy and Solo has him put Jimmy in the corner.

The fans boo but Solo tells Jimmy that he should’ve chosen Solo’s side, not Jacob’s! But speaking of, Fatu is up! The fans fire up as Fatu BODY CHECKS JC! Then he SUPERKICKS Solo! Solo is in a corner, Fatu fires off on him, HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT! SUPERKICK for JC! HIP ATTACK for Solo! The fans are fired up for the Samoan Werewolf, and he locks eyes with Jimmy. Jimmy came to Fatu’s rescue, Fatu just saved him, so Fatu goes up, up, only for Solo to bail out! No Best Moonsaults here in Grand Rapids, but will Fatu cut Solo down soon enough?

 

Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight!

The Wise Man warned, or rather threatened, the Mega Star that he should just cut and run, but that’s not how he does things. Knight is ready to fight, but will he survive a battle with Auszilla? Or is a Tsunami about wipe out LA?

Wait, Knight doesn’t enter from the stage! He enters from the crowd! And he POSTS Bron! The fans fire up as Knight evens things out! He TOSSES Bronson out, throws his vest at him, and Bronson snarls. Bronson has Bron stand down, and says, “Tonight, I kill him.” Bronson steps into the ring, the bell sounds, and Knight fires off! The fans fire up as Knight fires hands, but Bronson puts him in the corner. Knight ELBOWS back, Knight fires more hands, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips but Bronson blocks! Bronson whips Knight to a corner, runs up, but Knight dodges! Bronson POSTS himself, and Knight stomps a mudhole in!

The fans rally, the ref counts, and Knight goes corner to corner, but into a fireman’s carry! Knight slips down to sunset flip, but Bronson stays up! Bronson jumps but Knight avoids the hip drop! Then Knight basement BOOTS! The fans fire up and Knight storms up on Bronson. Bronson TOSSES Knight to the apron, but Knight slingshots back in! Bronson catches Knight to a fireman’s carry! Knight flails free and he RAMS Bronson into a corner! But Bronson holds ropes to deny the Jump Neckbreaker! Bronson runs but Knight avoids the senton! The fans fire up as Knight goes up, up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! That’s a Steiner move!

The fans fire up and spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT!” but Bronson bails out! Knight runs to WRECK Bronson with a dropkick! Knight goes back up, springboards, CROSSBODY to the ramp! The fans fire up with Knight and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Bronson has Knight up top. The fans rally as Knight fights back with body shots! Knight ROCKS Bronson, ROCKS him again, and ROCKS him again! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Bronson finally falls and Knight adjusts position. “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BOX JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Bronson survives and Knight is rather stunned while Heyman is relieved. Knight aims, kicks, but Bronson denies the BFT! HEADBUTT, then a fireman’s carry! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Knight survives the “Jagged Edge” DVD but Bronson brings him right up. Bronson reels Knight in and says thumbs down.

Bronson lifts Knight up, but Knight flips the bomb into a DDT! The fans fire up but Bron barks at the apron! Knight DECKS the dog, tells Heyman to get the same, but Bronson runs up! Knight DUMPS Bronson out, builds speed, but BRON SPEARS!!

Winner: LA Knight, by disqualification

The fans boo but Bron handed Knight the win with that one. Bronson stands Knight up so Bron can build speed and SUPER SPEAR!! Grand Rapids is torn but plenty of fans bark. And now Bronson goes up!? TSUNAMI!! Bronson goes up again, the refs hurry out here, but TSUNAMI AGAIN!! The fans want another, so Bron scares the refs off to let Bronson go back up! THIRD TSUNAMI!!! Have Rollins’ rooks just broken Knight into pieces? Is this a message to everyone that no one can stop the vision?

 

Jacob Fatu speaks.

“Yeah, c’mon on widdit! I just spoke to the man, and you know the man makes everything possible here on SmackDown! So next week, next week on Saturday, me ‘n’ you, Solo! Night of Champions, mano a mano, I’m about to dog walk yo’ ass for the US Championship! Solo, you better get in where you fit in. Cuz if you don’t, then baby, it’s ’bout to be all gas, no breaks with it. Yadadadada mean?” The Samoan Werewolf will get to sink his teeth into Solo, but will he stay golden through it all?

 

John Cena VS Ron Killings!

The Undisputed WWE Champion was the exact opposite of grateful for R-Truth saving him from Randy Orton at Backlash, and he doubled down when Ron tried to show him the truth at Saturday Night’s Main Event. So, if Cena doesn’t want the Truth, he’ll get someone who knows about ruthless aggression! Will Ron Killings bring an early end to the retirement tour? Or will Cena continue to ruin wrestling for everyone else?

SmackDown returns as Cena makes his entrance. The fans sing “JOHN CENA SUCKS~!” despite him wearing the Detroit Pistons colors. Cena makes Mark Nash give the “proper” introduction: “He is the Greatest of All Time, the Never Seen Seventeen, gracing Grand Rapids with his presence one final time… He is the Last Real Champion, JOHN CENA~!” The fans boo, the bell rings, and Truth stares at Cena while Cena smirks hearing the “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Truth TACKLES Cena! He fires off hands but Cena bails out! So Truth goes out to DECK Cena! “What’s up!?” “WHAT’S UP!” Truth has Cena at the desk and SMACKS him off it!

Truth ROCKS Cena again, and shakes his hand out from hitting so hard. Truth SMACKS Cena off the apron, storms in after him, and whips him to a corner. Cena hits buckles hard and falls to the mat! The fans continue to duel while Truth keeps his eyes on Cena. Truth storms up on Cena while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Truth stands Cena up, whips corner to corner again, and Cena hits buckles hard! Cena sputters, Truth looms over him, and Truth ROCKS Cena! Cena ROCKS Truth! They go back and forth with haymakers, and then Truth dodges to SHOULDER TACKLE! Truth still uses Cena’s own moves against him, and that includes the SPIN-OUT BOMB! Truth raises his hand and Grand Rapids joins in! “You Can’t See Me!” But then Cena bails out so Truth can’t hit him! Truth is annoyed, the fans give thumbs down, but here comes Truth. Cena ELBOWS him down! Cena drags Truth up, POSTS him, and he brings Truth back into the ring.

Cena HEADBUTTS Truth, CHOKES him on the ropes, but stops as the ref counts. Cena stomps away on Truth, then runs to KICK Truth in the back! Cena talks trash, then he runs to SHOULDER TACKLE! Cena takes his time, knowing it is what the fans want. Truth rises up, Cena runs to SHOULDER TACKLE again! Cena watches Truth rise again, gets around him, SPIN-OUT BOMB! And Cena raises his hand, reveling in the cheers and jeers. “You Can’t See Me!” SmackDown returns to single picture for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Then Cena fireman’s carries, but Truth slips free! THESZ PRESS! And fast hands!

The fans fire up and Truth has Cena in a corner. Truth runs to STINGER SPLASH! Truth hitting all sorts of other iconic moves! Cena tumbles out and grabs the belt! Cena doesn’t care about this match anymore, he doesn’t need to take this! Truth says hold up! Truth runs Cena down and fires hands on the ramp! The fans fire up but Cena CLOBBERS Truth with the belt!!

Winner: Ron Killings, by disqualification

Cena wants to get another shot, but wait! PUNK IS HERE! Cena runs away into the ring, and he catches Punk as Punk slides in! The fans boo Cena but he huffs ‘n’ puffs. Cena drags Punk up, but Punk fires hands in return! Punk DECKS Cena, grabs the belt, and he holds it up! The fans cheer, and Punk aims, but Cena LOW BLOWS! Cena has a sinister smile as he grabs the belt. BELT SHOT for Punk!! The fans boo even more, but Cena decides to up the ante! Cena brings out a table! The fans cheer, everyone loves tables! Cena puts the table in the ring, then watches Punk sputter around. Cena sets the table up while the fans rally behind Punk.

Punk stands but Cena has the belt again! BELT SHOT!! Cena drags Punk up, fireman’s carries, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT through the table!! Cena made Punk snap into a Slim Jim, and then he grabs a mic. Cena laughs at Punk, and then sits up on the corner. “Punk… As you lay there in your most uncomfortable…” Cena pretends the mic cut out, taps it, and then says, “Somebody’s afraid of what I’m gonna say.” Cena grins and the fans boo as Cena flips the iconic “Pipebomb” moment on it’s head. “As you lay there in your most uncomfortable, I hope you can listen. I hope you can digest.

“Because before I leave here in six months with that WWE Championship, I gotta get a whole lotta stuff off my chest. First thing’s first, I don’t hate you. I don’t even dislike you. I like you. I like you more than anyone you ever shared a locker room with, that’s for sure. I hate this idea of you. This idea that you’re the Best int he World. You’re not. I’M the Greatest of All Time.” Grand Rapids is a bit torn on that statement, but Cena says Punk is better than Cena at one thing: You’re the best BS artist in the world. Oh no, kiddos~! John Cena just dropped a curse word! That means the show is off the rails! Hey, Stu, shoot this. Hi~! “I’m breaking the forth wall! HAHA!”

Cena then says the truth is, Punk… Cena is jealous of you. Cena is jealous that Punk has conned the fans into believing the myth that Punk is the Best in the World. Oh how they chant for Punk! Which they literally do right now. Hell, the fans even sing for Punk now. But they don’t believe a damn word you say. Because Punk changes his values as much as Cena changes his shirts! Punk is just a loud mouthed opportunist who steps on the necks of those who actually work hard if it gets him ahead. Oh, hey, look, another cameraman! “Hi, Claudio Castagnoli! Hey, Nic Nemeth! Hey, Matt Cardona! How’re you guys doing?”

The fans can’t believe Cena is going this far but Cena is loving it! “He’s heating up! He’s on fire! And there’s nobody back there that’s gonna cut my mic to save your ass, cuz I’m your only friend! Remember who gave you the stage for your pipebomb, pal! And what’ve you done with it since then, huh? You just regurgitated the same five microphone moves of doom. You’re promo potato salad, pal. Hey, you’re no longer the Voice of the Voiceless, you’re a friggin’ millionaire despite yourself. You’re not a punk, you’re a capitalist! And you’re not against TKO, dude, you are Mr. TKO. Cuz they knocked your balls technically off your body.

“Your tweets are strong, but your actions are weak. And in Saudi Arabia, you’re gonna face some loud, loud music when I finally prove to the world that each and every day, day in, day out, no days off for 25 YEARS, I have been the Greatest of All Time!” The fans cheer that a bit more now, to Cena’s surprise. “See, they know. And they know that you were the Best in the World… for seven minutes, 14 years ago. And if after Night of Champions, you’re still delusional enough to believe that you’re the Best in the World, well… I guess it’s a small world after all. You’re welcome, Grand Rapids.” The fans cheer, and Cena lets the world hear it.

Cena tells Punk to bring his A Game to Night of Champions. If Grand Rapids is any indication, the mood is starting to change. Refs finally appear to check on Punk, Cena says no, that’s fine. Punk needs to rest up for his big title match. Get a good shot of this: Best in the World VS Greatest of All Time, for THE most coveted prize in sports entertainment, THE WWE Undisputed Championship! And Cena knows the fans will sing and chant, but he also knows even the idiots are smart enough to see the truth: The Champ is Here. And USA Network, keep the extra two and half minutes. He doesn’t need a bomb to blow the “mother fudging” building.

Oh, and thanks, Punk, for letting Cena rip off your best promo just to make you look even more foolish. Cena finally drops the mic and he raises the belt up again. If the proverbial tables have turned this drastically, is there no saving WWE from losing its north star championship?

My Thoughts:

A great SmackDown with an awesome ending. All those years ago, when CM Punk dropped THE OG “Pipebomb” promo, no one could’ve ever in a million years guessed that here tonight, we would’ve gotten the John Cena remix. Not only was that promo of the year, but Cena blew up go-home math. I can’t see Cena losing the title to Punk now. He can lose the match since Cena loves getting disqualified, and there’s the possibility of Rollins trying a cash-in, but Cena is leaving Saudi Arabia as champion to then go to SummerSlam. It also works because Cody Rhodes still feels like the favorite for King of the Ring.

A lot of that has to do with how Sami lost to Orton tonight. Great promo from the four semifinalists, especially since it was Jey, Sami and Orton kinda keeping Cody from talking since there isn’t more Cody needs to say. Win or lose, no explanations needed at this point. Sami VS Orton was an awesome match, but I could just feel an RKO countering the Helluva Kick as the way to go and that’s what they did. Now, as awesome as it would be for Jey to beat Cody, and then for Jey to beat Orton to go for the World Heavyweight Championship again, there are a lot of moving parts right now that it would just be the easiest for Cody to win the crown and have his rematch with Cena.

And while talking the WHC, Gunther VS Goldberg IS confirmed for the title, but has also been confirmed as Goldberg’s last match. This is a huge indicator that despite Rollins teasing a cash-in on the Undisputed title, he will likely be thwarted and then falls back to the title he feels is rightfully his. That is to say, Rollins cashes in on the winner of Gunther VS Goldberg, which I half expected even before all this talk of Goldberg’s last match. Rollins can take this title from Gunther and Goldberg, and then we can throw Jey and even LA Knight into the mix as things are getting heated between Knight and the henchmen.

Great promo from Knight with Heyman, great match with Knight VS Bronson, and a really powerful beating Knight takes from Bron & Bronson. If nothing else, Knight costs Rollins his cash-in. Truth going after Kit Wilson was an interesting move. Also a shame Elton Prince is hurt, Pretty Deadly gets going and then something happens to slow them down. But Kit was going to lose to Aleister so this really messes Aleister up more than anything. Priest keeping the peace between Aleister and Truth was good stuff. Priest and Truth being allies on SmackDown can be some real fun stuff, and I feel like they’re already set up for a feud with Aleister.

Very good stuff with Fatu, Solo and this US Championship story. Fatu VS Solo was the natural move, and I like that Jimmy Uso ends up an ally for Fatu. The title match is set, I wonder if we get a tag match first. In fact, next week is title night in Riyadh with Tiffany Stratton giving Nia the Last Woman Standing match, and basically setting the stage for Naomi to cash in. She almost did tonight but Nia was again able to stop her, so I would think Naomi waits until the very end of the Last Woman Standing match to take full advantage. Then, if Jade wins Queen of the Ring, we get Jade VS Naomi at SummerSlam.

Good promo from Jade, B-Fab & Michin watching Asuka VS Alexa. Asuka winning made the most sense, Alexa clearly has story with Charlotte and Asuka is just that good. Jade VS Roxie will be a good match but Roxie’s story in Judgment Day might keep her from winning. But then the fallback there is Roxie might actually sub in for the tag titles like I was thinking. Charlotte VS Chelsea was very good, and of course the Secret Her-vice does what they can to help. The beatdown they put on Charlotte and then Alexa making the save, that’s going to be one of those “can they coexist?” tag matches for sure.

Honestly, a little surprised we didn’t get any tag team promos tonight, unless I completely missed something. I believe title night is going to have Profits VS Gacy & Lumis for the tag titles, too, so that’s going to be something wild. And while DIY is scared of the Wyatts, I feel like they’re going to interfere because they don’t want the Wyatts to take the titles. But at the same time, the Wyatts need something substantial this time around, so maybe they win the titles at SummerSlam.

My Score: 9/10

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Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25

Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?

Published

1 day ago

on

June 19, 2025

By

Last week’s episode was lacking in ring work but had decent story moments and segments. Starting the build to Slammiversary we can either launch nicely or things can always get worse. Jason Hotch and KC Navarro are the real shining stars of the last few months, so lets hope once they get over this Leon Slater idiot ship, they can push X Division wrestlers with actual talent for pro wrestling and not just flippy charisma vacuums.

Oh and let’s not forget, it is the episode they celebrate the 23rd anniversary of TNA! TWENTY – THREE!! Somewhere PCO hates this.

Ratings:

  • Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers: EY wins via Piledriver – ** 3/4
  • Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge: Elegantos win via Rarefied Air – ***
  • Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man: HTM wins via Cradle – *
  • Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams: Elijah wins via Highwayman’s Farewell – ***

 

Results:

Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers

Sami knocks them all off the apron before the bell rings, he levels the loser children, finds a chair, attacks EY but EY counters and this is the excuse to use weapons since the bell didn’t ring yet. EY tries to break Sami’s hand on the steps with the chair, but Sami moves, throws EY back in the ring, bell rings and EY hits a Belly to Belly suplex for two. They slug it out, Sami goes for Headbutts, then Sami wants to run the ropes but a loser trips him, distracts long enough for EY to knock him out of the ring and loser children swarm as loser children do. EY does the classic, throw back out for losers to attack while EY grabs and distracts the ref. Sami is selling a few lame attacks from the losers like he got shot. It’s an excessive sell, so it’s honestly a dumb transitional moment.

EY levels Sami, Lariat into Scoop Slam, looks for the Macho Elbow but Sami hits the ropes to crotch EY. Sami Superplex time, but EY bites the face to make Sami drop, EY jumps at him but eats a straight right hand. Cactus Driver, but no, EY tries his Piledriver…they both gouge eyes at the same time, Sami catches an EY charge into a Flatliner as they’re both down…for…reasons? The selling in this match seems…poorly timed and kinda stupid. Hard Irish Whip, EY Flair Flips the corner, levels Sami, Macho Elbow for 2.9! EY threatens to hit the ref, but then goes to mad dog commentary. EY then wants to attack fans…he’s more unhinged than World Elite EY. Sami gives him the old Dick Twist into a Stunner but only for two! Losers try to distract, first one gets taken out, second one uses a chair, EY hits the Piledriver on Sami, EY wins.

I feel like this is gonna continue for a few weeks since it wasn’t a clean win. 

Mustafa Ali’s group comes out, and I refuse to say the name because it’s dumb and they’re already fraying at the seams. Ali wants an apology session, Tasha and Hotch apologize to him but Skyler bites back and refuses, even shoved Ali. So Ali challenges him to a “Call to Arms” match. What in the hell is a Call to Arms match? 

Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge

ASH does her borderline racist fake karate before Lei stares her down and tags in Heather. Heather avoids Lei, Lei throws a few Tornado Kicks to make a point and Heather tags out. Heather being 4’8″ helps her here. Concierge says “There’s no Karate in wrestling”. ASH, Lei and Masha are in the ring, ASH is trying to decide who she wants to face, but the Concierge google translated it and hands it to ASH, before the face team rocks ASH. Masha lifts up Lei and Lei does the Liu Kang Bicycle Kick, steering more into her Mortal Kombat aesthetic. Senton off the apron from Lei and Masha dives into the pile, the comedy heels are getting leveled. We go to commercial and come back with Lei getting Double Teamed but she spins it into a weird Neckbreaker..but can’t tag out just yet. Lei blocks Heather, Enzuigiri, simultaneous tag, Masha is Yakuza kicks for all and the 2 for 1 Lariat/DDT special. Near fall, but Masha goes for murder, but Heather breaks it, Rocket Launcher/Code Breaker from Elegance but Lei breaks up the pin. ASH tries to intimidate Lei with her fake Karate before throwing her out of the ring. Heather hits Lei with a handful of Glitter and then bounces her face off the post. Masha tries to stop ASH, Kelly’s music distracts Masha, Rarefied Air gives ASH the win.

Santino comes out and GOD DAMMIT no one wants to see Tommy Dreamer fight Mance Warner…that’s a useless thing. Pivot away…no one wants this. Oh no, now we have to listen to Steph talk too. Okay it seems to be a pivot, thankfully. Steph and Mance talk shit, Dreamer says something about Something is gonna happen…and Jake Something comes out. So…I guess we’re gonna build him up for 2 months and then job him out for 6 before he fucks off to his home galaxy or whatever? 

Really wish Indi just opened with the Billy Butcher classic of, “Oi Cunt!” – but this wasn’t bad. 

Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man

I hate… Cardona so much more now. Heel reasons for Cardona…go away heat for Deaner.

JDC wants the Home Town Man to start…and Deaner does his stupid Flip Flop and Fly, Cardona tags in, JDC is eating some offense, Cardona wants the Reboot, JDC powders, Cardona Dives but then Lish and the general numbers catch up to Cardona. Eddie is legal, and now they isolate Cardona with some decent tandem work and isolation. This turns into kind of a schmoz, lots of silly spots, near falls and then Home Town doofus gets the cradle pinfall on Eddie.

Whenever Deaner is involved I can’t be asked to care. The System beats Cardona and Deaner down, but Eddie did eat a pin. Which is embarrassing not even for work reasons, like it’s just sad.

Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams

Elijah and Nic start things off, slow push off, arm wring, top wristlock, simple chain wrestling start. Nic breaks the chain and hits a Dropkick, Elijah runs the ropes and hits a Diving Lariat and starts the Rope Walk. Nic seems far to awake and alert for that move then, I hate how people pull that off too early. Wentz gets tagged in, Nic tags in Maclin who wasn’t looking for a tag, but him and Wentz have a nice clash, Trey tags in, they try to double him, but they pause and look at each other. Maclin asks for a tag, no one tags him so he Chops Ryan to tag him in and throws him in.

The little nod to Maclin and Rascalz history and the fact the faces realize Maclin isn’t a piece of shit. A little MCMG homage tandem attacks on Ryan, Wentz punctuates with the Handspring Knee Lift, Ryan tags out to Trick. Trick and Wentz go back and forth, Rascalz have Trick eating offense, Moose tries to slow things down, both Trick and Moose powder, Rascalz Double Golden Triangle Moonsaults. Trey gets tripped by Nic, Moose hits Lights Out, but there’s no referee so it’s a little chaotic.

Out of the commercial things are controlled kinda and we see a simultaneous tag to Moose and Leon. Leon comes out hot, level Moose with a Leg Lariat, attacks Nic Nemeth, attacks Ryan, and then Moose hits Leon with the Stun Gun. Moose looks to tag in Maclin but Maclin jumps off the apron. Trick takes the tag, keeps control, Trick forcibly tags in Maclin but Ryan tags himself in and pulls Leon to the Champions’ corner, Nic tags in and isolates Leon, with the Kaibas quick tagging and keeping Leon down.

Moose tags in, tries to Suplex Leon about four times but Leon stops it then counters the Suplex. Moose tries to cut him off, but the Champions distract the ref so the ref can’t see Leon tag out. Nic and Moose doubling up and Leon is the bump guy of this last portion of the match. Big Uranage from Moose…Moose looks for Lights Out but Small Package almost ruined things, Body Scissors Cradle, GAME CHANGER! Moose looks to hit a Jacknife Powerbomb but Leon turns it into a DDT. Maclin and Ryan start fighting, Nic Superkicks Maclin, Hendry and Nic tag in, Hendry is a house of fire. Sack of Shits for everyone! Nic, Ryan, there’s a pause when Hendry is face to face with Trick and Trick gets Uppercuts first then Sack of Shit! Standing Ovation on Nic, but Ryan blocks, Kaibas try a tandem attack but Hendry Lariats them both. Elijah tags in and is the maestro of the crowd and chopping Ryan to some fun. Ryan goes for a Polish Hammer but eats the Knee Lift. Signature spam time…

Ryan tries to use the International title but Maclin grabs the title away from Ryan, clocks Nic, Standing Ovation into the Highwayman’s Farewell. Champions lose!

Overall Score: 4/10

Well this was a rough one boys and girls. Sami and EY was just an overbooked shitshow, Lei Ying Lee is unfortunately in a spot where it’s obvious TNA has no clue how to use her, the Elegantos are the New Beautiful People, and I’m not mad at that. But you need to space out your goofball crap. You can’t have Elegance Clique, Home Town Moron and Santino in 3 consecutive segments. And if anyone goes “it was 3 out of 4” that’s doesn’t lessen my point, the beauty of Pro Wrestling being a variety show is…FOR VARIETY! When the lead match feels stupid because of bad pacing, poor selling and overbooking with two losers, it feels like a useless match with idiots, then comedy, followed by more comedy…you see how that’s literally NOT VARIETY.

Figure it out seriously. This was a disappointing episode. If you’re a casual viewer than it’s just chalk for TNA doing cringe and borderline goof crap since they’ve always steered a little more into the carny than other companies. But this show was…where’s Jisoo and Jenny? I feel like I need that gif:

two women standing in a kitchen with the words not bad but not good on the bottom

About Chairshot Radio Network

Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!

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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS

Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)

TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends

Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5

Classic POD is WAR

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