Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (4/2/18)
All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Bayley VS Sonya Deville w/ Absolution; Bayley wins.
- Finn Balor VS Seth Rollins; Rollins wins.
- Goldust VS WOKEN Matt Hardy; Hardy wins.
- Heath Slater w/ Rhyno VS Elias; Elias wins.
- Alexa Bliss & Mickie James VS Dana Brooke & Asuka; Dana & Asuka win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Johnathan Coachman welcomes Atlanta to Raw!
This is it. Six nights away from @WrestleMania…#RAW is LIVE on @USA_Network! pic.twitter.com/UarFHrLiFb
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Wrestlemania is this Sunday, and we’re near the end of the road. Coach sets up the face-off conference of the star mixed tag match, and introduces the Raw Commissioner, Stephanie McMahon, as well as the COO, Triple H!
Behold the ?
The ? of ???#RAW @TripleH pic.twitter.com/nNMba2onek— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Then, he introduces the Raw GM, Kurt Angle–who gets the classic “You Suck!” chant–and of course, the Baddest Woman on the Planet, “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey!
#TeamRousey is in the building!#RAW @RealKurtAngle @RondaRousey pic.twitter.com/WlFuaqlwqM
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Everyone is in the ring now, and sit on their respective sides of the table. The fans chant, “Ronda Rousey! *clap clap clapclapclap*” Coach thanks the four for joining this face-off, and moves things to the Social Media Q&A. HHH speaks up, because he has a Q for Angle. “It’s a shame, really”, everyone chanting for Ronda, because the fans want to like her, but it’ll all be gone after Sunday. And it’ll all be Angle’s fault. “Intensity, Integrity, Intelligence”, an Olympic Gold Medalist with a broken freaking neck, yet it seems that third I of Intelligence doesn’t hold true. This right here is a prime example: they have Ronda Rousey, one of if not THE biggest signing to WWE, yet Angle ruins it by setting her up for “an embarrassment” at Wrestlemania. HHH has to know, “Why?”
Angle replies, but Ronda speaks up now. She asks the Authority why they were so two-faced. Stephanie excuses Ronda, she doesn’t understand how things work. But they’ll polish her up after they rebuild her from the beating on Sunday. Stephanie moves things to the questions, but Ronda says this was the format: she asked a Q, where’s the A? Stephanie plays along, saying they signed Ronda because she’s a star. Fans want to see Ronda in the WWE, and she is “best for business.” However, things work like this: HHH asked a question, Angle works for Stephanie, Angle messed Ronda up already, so what is there to misunderstand? Angle and Ronda work for the Authority, “so who they Hell do you think you are?” Angle takes it from here: “She’s Ronda Friggin’ Rousey.” An Olympic Medalist, UFC Champion, and come Wrestlemania, the one who makes Stephanie tap out.
Coach fails to cool things off as HHH asks Angle why he’s so confident. Yeah, she’s “Ronda Friggin’ Rousey”, with entire divisions built around her. In the WWE, that means nothing. Ronda’s dream of coming here compares nothing to how the WWE is Stephanie’s life, HHH’s life, “from beginning to end.” In this ring, The authority knows the rules, but Ronda has no idea what’s coming. The “massive learning curve” and the rules made by the Authority makes this “a forgone conclusion.”
Coach again tries to steer things to questions. “How important it is for you to win at Wrestlemania? And if you do, how will it impact eh future of the WWE?” Stephanie says it won’t be if, but when. And when the Authority wins, it’ll show that any uprising will end up with the bosses taking action to shut it down, and everyone will learn to #RespectAuthority. “How does Angle feel about teaming with Ronda Rousey?” Whether in the ring, cage, octagon, Ronda is the baddest woman, and she’ll prove it when Stephanie taps out.
And finally, an open question: “Any final thoughts before you head to Wrestlemania?” Stephanie says that this is all on Ronda for choosing this. Ronda will lose, her first ever match at Wrestlemania, to Stephanie. And we all know how Ronda handles losses. “Nice jacket, by the way.” Ronda replies with, “Steph, are you right or left handed?” Stephanie is right-handed. Ronda wanted to make sure Stephanie can still sign checks, even after she rips an arm off. Fans like the sound of that. Coach wraps things up with the photo op. Nothing like boxing or UFC, this will be classy and professional. The photographers come in and everyone moves to the front of the tables. Coach wishes everyone luck as he moves aside.
HHH and Angle come face to face, and Stephanie glares at Ronda. The gentlemen shake hands, but the ladies… Stehpanie offers, but when Ronda refuses, Stephanie trash talks. They get face-to-face, but Angle keeps the peace, only for HHH to attack from behind! Ronda gets HHH, but Stephanie body slams Ronda through a table! Stephanie says that’s for before, and the rest will be at Wrestlemania. “You’re not so tough.” The Authority stands tall after being underhanded, but will they regret their actions when the gloves are off?
Did @StephMcMahon just put @RondaRousey through a table?!
Yes, @StephMcMahon just put @RondaRousey through a table!#RAW #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/eYbpeQ7LZ8
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Bayley VS Sonya Deville w/ Absolution!
History will be made THIS SUNDAY at #WrestleMania in the #WomensBattleRoyal! pic.twitter.com/9DIwmf5qnj
— WWE WrestleMania (@WrestleMania) April 3, 2018
Whether or not the Huggable One has a friend in the Legit Boss anymore, she isn’t going to let the Gladiator Gal go through her without a fight. With the inaugural Wrestlemania Women’s Battle Royal just up ahead, who will gain some final momentum before arriving in New Orleans?
The bell rings and the two circle. Bayley is wary of Absolution nearby, but that leaves her open to a kick to the leg. Sonya taunts Bayley, then circles again for another kick. Sonya goes for Bayley’s leg again but Bayley hops over and boots her back. The two battle over a backslide, Sonya whips but Bayley goes up and over to get a headlock takeover. Sonya stands up and powers out, but things speed up and Bayley ducks the elbow to whip. Sonya reverses but Bayley crossbodies! Bayley keeps on Sonya with another headlock, and turns Sonya’s counter into a takedown. Sonya keeps her shoulders up and stands up again, using the ponytail to take Bayley to a corner. She drives in shoulders while Absolution cheers, but the fans jeer.
Bayley counters Sonya’s run with a flapjack to buckles! Bayley hops up but Sonya yanks her off, so Bayley elbows her away. She hops up again and flies, but the arm-drag is blocked into a body check.
Who will pick up some all-important momentum before the @WrestleMania #WomensBattleRoyal: @itsBayleyWWE or @SonyaDevilleWWE?! #RAW pic.twitter.com/0oJnGbrJO8
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Cover, TWO, but Bayley keeps on Sonya with an arm wrench. Paige says “This is OUR House!” but Bayley has Sonya in a standing armbar. Sonya endures the wrench, then hits back with haymakers. Sonya whips but Bayley reverses, big corner clothesline! Bayley tugs, Sonya holds ropes so Bayley has to let go, sucker punch from Sonya and a roundhouse take Bayley down! Sonya trash talks Bayley while we go to break.
Raw returns to Sonya grinding Bayley in a bodyscissors. Bayley fights out as the fans rally, and she starts ramming Sonya’s head into the mat! She breaks free, runs, but into a spinebuster! Cover, TWO, but Sonya keeps on Bayley with knees to the chest. She runs, sliding knee into Bayley! Cover, TWO, and frustration grows for Absolutoin as a whole. Sonya stalks Bayley, toying with her. Bayley pushes back while fans rally again, but Sonya kicks away on Bayley’s stomach. Bayley dodges, but Sonya is upon her again, only for Bayley to counter! She punches and forearms away on Sonya, then rallies with lariats. Bayley puts Sonya in a corner for a mudhole stomping and a rain of hands. She goes to the outside, climbs up, and jumps for the crossbody!
Bayley keeps moving, running knee to Sonya’s head! Cover, TWO! Absolution bails Sonya out, but Bayley just exits the ring anyway. The referee keeps Paige and Mandy back, but Sonya knees Bayley back. Bayley counters the throw, and then hangs Sonya up with the hotshot! Cover, TWO, but Mandy is lurking. Bayley kicks her away but Sonya kicks her down, gutwrench cradle, TWO! Sonya kicks, Bayley ducks and rolls her up, Bayley wins!
Winner: Bayley, by pinfall
HARD-FOUGHT VICTORY for @itsBayleyWWE on #RAW over #Absolution's @SonyaDevilleWWE! pic.twitter.com/bAdUfdEWi4
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
But Absolution pounces! Mandy hammers away, joined by Sonya. Here comes Sasha! The Boss tackles Mandy then fights off Sonya. Sasha throws Mandy out but Sonya is on her again. Bayley helps now, throwing Sonya out. The Raw Horsewomen stand tall, and the fans are loving it, but Sasha wants Bayley to raise her hand? Bayley won the match, not Sasha! Sasha gets in Bayley’s face so Bayley fights back! She rains rights but Sasha comes back, and so does Absolution! Mandy and Sonya club away, then a roundhouse for Bayley, Golden Driver for Sasha! The “friends” are down, will they be able to get up in time for the battle royal?
Raw takes a look at Asuka’s Streak.
October 7th, 2015: it began. For over two years, 908 days, the Empress of Tomorrow has racked up 265 wins, not one loss. She’s conquered 35 women, eight of them former champions, and all submitting to her Asuka Lock. Asuka knows nothing but winning in both NXT and WWE. The only reason she isn’t still NXT Women’s Champion is because she had to vacate the title when she came to Raw. She is a Sole Survivor and a Royal Rumble Winner in the same year, and she won the inaugural Women’s Rumble. Unlike any wrestler before her, she heads for Wrestlemania against SmackDown Women’s Champion, The Queen of Flair, Charlotte! Will the Streak live on through the Grandest Stage of Them All?
It's STREAK vs. TITLE THIS SUNDAY at #WrestleMania when @WWEAsuka challenges @MsCharlotteWWE for the #SDLive #WomensChampionship! #RAW pic.twitter.com/NeJNKrEwKe
— WWE WrestleMania (@WrestleMania) April 3, 2018
Finn Balor VS Seth Rollins!
#BalorClub is out and about in the ATL…@FinnBalor goes toe-to-toe with @WWERollins NEXT on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/GPSbKCNSMk
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The Extraordinary Man and the Architect are both going after The Miz’s Intercontinental Championship in a Triple Threat, but they first want to settle things between each other. Can the inaugural Universal Champion notch another win over the former world champion? Or will “Seth Freakin’ Rollins” get even this close to becoming a Grand Slam Champion?
However, The Miz is also here to keep an eye on his contenders from commentary! New baby Monroe will have to watch daddy watch Finn VS Rollins.
New dad. Same title.#ICChampion @mikethemiz is in the building TONIGHT on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/jWRvvP7VCU
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
#TheArchitect @WWERollins has ONE mission tonight: BEAT @FinnBalor.#RAW pic.twitter.com/EDtWG6MYpE
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The bell rings, Rollins circles with Finn, and then they tie up. Rollins gets the waistlock but Finn the standing switch and they go around with hammerlocks. Rollins gets a headlock, then an arm-wrench but Finn tries to counter. Finn ends up on the mat, but kip-up and wrenches to an arm-drag takedown. Rollins headscissors, Finn pops out, Rollins headlocks, Finn headscissors, Rollins pops out, and the two stand up in a stand-off. Fans applaud while Finn grins, and the two circle again. They tie up but Finn goes low for the leg. He gets Rollins to a hammerlock, snapping back to wrench it. Rollins works his way out, Finn wrenches the wrist. Rollins rolls and handsprings but Finn powers out, only for Rollins to run him over. Finn gets to ropes but Rollins headlock takeover, grinding Finn to the mat.
Finn makes it a cover, TWO, but Rollins holds on. They stand up, Finn powers out and arm-drags Rollins back down to the armlock. They stand up again, Rollins whips but Finn reverses. Rollins rolls over and shoulders Finn down. Things speed up, Finn arm-drags, and they stand-off again. Rollins and Finn are still evenly matched while we go to break.
Raw returns to Rollins whipping but Finns reversing. Rollins sunset flips but Finn rolls through to dropkick. Finn wrenches Rollins fights out. Finn hits back and Rollins gets mad. Rollins shoves, Finn shoves back. They both glance at the Wrestlemania sign, and a brawl breaks out! They go back and forth with wild rights, then Rollins knees. Rollins throws Finn out tot he floor, then follows him out to chop him against the barriers. He puts Finn into the apron while the ring count starts, continuing with throwing Finn into barriers. Fans are fired up as Rollins puts Finn back in the ring. Finn fights back, throwing Rollins out. Finn dropkicks Rollins down, then from the apron, he Penalty Kicks Rollins down!
A Finn Flex and then Finn brings Rollins back into the ring. Cover, ONE, and Miz enjoys this long showcase. Finn kicks Rollins in the back, covers, ONE. Rollins gets to a corner but Finn gives him a chop, then another chop. Finn stalks Rollins, whips him corner to corner, running- No, buckle shot! Rollins hops up, blockbuster! Cover, TWO, but Rollins keeps his cool. He drives elbows right into Finn’s forehead, then puts him in a chinlock. Rollins squeezes and grinds Finn down, we go picture in picture to plug Shinsuke VS Styles. Finn gets up but Rollins wrangles him right back down. He endures the squeeze, then works his way up to his feet. Finn pries his way out but Rollins turns it into a neckbreaker! Finn gets to the apron but Rollins goes outside and takes aim. Rollins boots Finn back into the ring!
#ICChampion @mikethemiz is a NEW MAN as he watches @WWERollins and @FinnBalor tear each other apart just six nights before #WrestleMania! #RAW pic.twitter.com/ShV3a14JJL
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Cover, TWO! Rollins keeps frustration at bay, but Finn hits back. They go back and forth with chops, then Rollins suplexes but Finn slips out, only for Rollins to elbow him away. Finn in a corner, he boots Rollins back. Finn rallies with forearms, then whips but Rollins reverses, only for Finn to hit another. The fans fire up, Finn chops Rollins in the corner again. Corner to corner, Rollins boots Finn away. Rollins hops up but Finn yanks him off! Finn tries the 1916 but Rollins rolls him up, TWO! Finn goes again, elbow DDT! Cover, TWO! And Finn can’t believe it!
Finn gets up and to a corner, fans firing up for him. He takes aim at Rollins, runs out, but Rollins denies the slingblade to hit HIS slingblade! Finn gets out of the ring, Rollins builds speed, and DIVES! Direct hit! Both men are down on the outside, we go to break.
Raw returns as Finn fires up, and hits his slingblade! He runs again, but into a SUPERKICK!
?#RAW @WWERollins @FinnBalor pic.twitter.com/SdM4YZAHgp
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Miz says this is the best match he’s seen all year while Rollins reaches for a cover, TWO! The fans declare, “This is Awesome!” Finn flounders to a corner while Rollins staggers to his feet. Rollins runs in for the forearm smash, then another but Finn dodges to swing kick him down! Finn climbs up, but Rollins sits him down! Rollins climbs up to join Finn, slowly preparing the superplex, but Finn resists. Finn fights back with clubbing forearms. Rollins goes down again, Finn adjusts, but Rollins returns, for the SUPERPLEX roll through but Small Package! TWO!! Rollins can’t believe how close that was, and drags Finn back up. Finn revives again but Revolution Knee! Cover, TWO!? Miz loves this!
#ICChampion @mikethemiz = all of us right now.#RAW @WWERollins @FinnBalor pic.twitter.com/gPh6WITvqd
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Rollins gets to a corner, climbs up, takes aim, then jumps, but the frog splash hits knees! TWO!! Even The Miz is shocked. Finn gets to his feet while Rollins rolls and slumps out of the ring. Finn goes to that apron, Penalty- No, Rollins brings him up, deja vu, but Finn fights out to SLINGBLADE! Blasting dropkick! Finn avenges his Summerslam injury and puts Rollins back in the ring. He climbs up again, takes aim again, and jumps, but rollins rolls away. Mule kick, Curb- No, a shove and a roll, TWO, roll back, CURB STOMP!! Rollins wins!!
Winner: Rollins, by pinfall
1️⃣-2️⃣-3️⃣…and WHAT A MATCH!@WWERollins STOMPS his way to a win over @FinnBalor just SIX nights before #WrestleMania! #RAW pic.twitter.com/YdtTdha6fE
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The Architect finally gets one on the Extraordinary Man. Miz stands up on the commentary table so that everyone gets a good look at his Intercontinental Championship. Will Miz keep a hold of that title to become the longest reigning IC Champion ever? Will Rollins take it away to become a Grand Slam Champion? Or will Finn turn his momentum around and make that title #TooSweet?
Well, @FinnBalor took an L, but @WWERollins and @mikethemiz are more ready than ever for #WrestleMania! #RAW pic.twitter.com/cTJ7cvNLr5
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Raw reviews the saga of Lesnar VS Reigns.
The Beast won the WWE Universal Championship a year ago at Wrestlemania off THE Goldberg. Ever since then, the “reigning, defending, undisputed” champion would remain such even after taking on Kane, Samoa Joe, Braun Strowman and Roman Reigns. Roman meanwhile had to take the long road back to Wrestlemania, winning the Elimination Chamber #1 Contender’s match. He vows he’s telling the truth about being able to beat Lesnar. He also told the truth on how Lesnar doesn’t care or respect anyone in the WWE, from employees to management to fans. At the same time, Roman said he doesn’t want Vince McMahon to disrespect him. Vince would suspend Roman for his comments, but Roman didn’t care, he kept coming to work.
However, this would also backfire. Roman fought off U.S. Marshals, only for Lesnar to take advantage of the handcuffs! Lesnar savagely beat the collared Roman, both with German Suplexes and with a chair. Battered and bruised, Roman would still man up to get in Lesnar’s face and even take another beating. Roman got his licks in, but Lesnar still got the better of him. With Wrestlemania on the horizon, can Roman return to get his revenge?
THIS SUNDAY: #UniversalChampion @BrockLesnar defends the title he won exactly ONE YEAR AGO against #TheBigDog @WWERomanReigns at #WrestleMania! #RAW pic.twitter.com/EqR5GHEUOc
— WWE WrestleMania (@WrestleMania) April 3, 2018
Paul Heyman talks “Brocktagon” with someone on his phone.
However, Kurt Angle walks over to talk with The Advocate. He tells Heyman as the GM, that the most important part of ‘Mania is keeping the main event intact. Heyman agrees, but asks how this is any different than any other night? He’ll say nice things about Roman and tell Lesnar to save it for Sunday. Angle wants to make sure Heyman doesn’t instigate anything between the two men where they might get hurt. Heyman just laughs. Angle is worried about Lesnar getting hurt? Yes, because they both want to hurt each other period! Just don’t do anything of the sort, Heyman. Heyman promises not to, but he’s still chuckling to himself. Will there be any last attacks before the ‘Mania match?
#RAW General Manager @RealKurtAngle wants to make sure @HeymanHustle doesn't do anything to incite @WWERomanReigns too much tonight… pic.twitter.com/FrfEE1VAox
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
The Bar head to the ring.
You know what they are…
THE BAR! #RAW @WWECesaro @WWESheamus pic.twitter.com/1UxzUjwAPk
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The Swiss Cyborg & the Celtic Gladiator are set to face The Monster Among Men for the Raw Tag Team Championships, but it doesn’t matter to them who Braun Strowman gets as a partner. “Because as big as you are or as strong as you are, it’s still a tag team match.” Strowman will have to tag his partner in at some point, and they need to be on the same page, including plans B, C, D, etc, but it won’t matter because they’ll never be a real team or real tag team champions. But then Strowman appears!
Hands are about to be gotten, because here comes The #MonsterAmongMen @BraunStrowman! #RAW pic.twitter.com/AZywruiS9u
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The fans chant “Get These Hands!” for Strowman as he walks onto the stage. “If you’re trying to say that I don’t play well with others, than you’re right.” Strowman says that management made it clear he has to have a partner, and he got one! They were just talking, and his partner doesn’t appreciate what these “clowns” were saying. In that case, that partner should come out and tell The Bar to their faces! “Don’t worry, he will, under one stipulation: he wants a match with one of you!” A match against the mystery partner? The fans like the sound of that! And The Bar can’t pass this opportunity up. The mystery partner will get his match! “Good. I’ll go get him.” Strowman warns them, though, “he’s a lot like me, just a little different.”
Strowman disappears into the back while The Bar discusses what to do, and then Strowman returns. Wearing glasses and a shirt!
"My brother's Braun. I'm BRAINS, and I'm about to knock yours out of your head!"#BrainsStrowman is about to take on either @WWECesaro or @WWESheamus on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/DzxUv3yEwB
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
“My brother’s Braun, I’m Brains! And I’m about to come out there and knock yours out of your heads!” “Brain” Strowman heads to the ring, and Sheamus volunteers Cesaro. But reveal! It’s just Braun! And he fights them both! He throws Cesaro off and punches Sheamus, but Sheamus saves Cesaro to BROGUE Strowman! The Bar has numbers on their side as they hammer away, but Strowman just shoves them both away! He runs Sheamus over and throws Cesaro again! The Bar retreats to regroup but Strowman wants more! Does Braun really have a partner to team with? And if he does, will that team break The Bar on Sunday?
THIS SUNDAY: @BraunStrowman MUST find a partner to challenge #TheBar @WWECesaro & @WWESheamus for the #RAW #TagTeamTitles at #WrestleMania! pic.twitter.com/KnW9EM16Ua
— WWE WrestleMania (@WrestleMania) April 3, 2018
Goldust speaks.
The Bizarre One says it’s “skill against skill alone – Princess Bride”. Those were Andre the Giant’s words, and Goldust vows to win his Memorial Battle Royal to put his name on the gold statue. Then HBO will make a documentary about him, so that the world will never forget the name “Goldust”.
But WOKEN Hardy responds!
The Golden One seeks the same prize, to join the pantheon of giants! Hardy vows to be the one honoring the Humongous Wonder #8, and all others will be OBSOLETE! As for tonight, it shall be the Bizarre One who is scheduled for DELETION!
Goldust VS WOKEN Matt Hardy!
Raw returns to this match already in progress as Hardy puts Goldust back in the ring. He rocks Goldy with a haymaker, then whips, but Goldust drops down for the uppercut. Goldust breathes in and hisses at Hardy, but Hardy says that was, “WONDERFUL~!” He applauds, and the fans applaud with him. Hardy ducks a punch to give a punch then whips. Goldust boots back, then puts Hardy into a post. Goldust goes to the outside and mocks Hardy before rocking him with another uppercut. He stomps on Hardy in the ring, then drags him up but Hardy hits back with body shots. Hardy runs, but into a spinebuster! Cover, TWO, but Goldust keeps on Hardy.
Goldust hammers away on Hardy, then takes another deep breath, only for Hardy to throw haymakers. Hardy forearms then “DELETE!” buckle bumps Goldust over and over from top to bottom. Hardy backs off, then says “DELETE!” before running in for the corner clothesline. Goldust denies the bulldog, but runs into a Side Effect! Cover, TWO! Hardy continues the “DELETE!” but Goldust pushes off and powerslams! Cover, TWO! Goldust gets to a corner and climbs up, to take a deep breath and jump, but misses the elbow! Hardy gets up and kicks, Twist– Roll up! TWO! Goldust kicks, drops down but Hardy hits him first. Then, Twist of Fate! Cover, TWO!
Winner: WOKEN Hardy, by pinfall
A DELIGHTFUL victory for #WOKEN @MATTHARDYBRAND as he hands @Goldust his #TwistOfFate on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/W5BbDquIDb
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The WOKEN Wisdom rolls on towards the Memorial Battle Royal, and Hardy tells the statue of the Wonder #8 that he will “PROCURE! PROCURE!” a spot on the plaque. Will Hardy make Andre the Giant proud during the Wrestlemania kickoff?
The mission is clear for #WOKEN @MATTHARDYBRAND at #WrestleMania…
PROCURE! PROCURE! PROCURE! #RAW pic.twitter.com/fbkX60Uf6R
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Alexa Bliss & Mickie James speak.
They look cute in their selfie cam. The Goddess tried this once with Nia, but the phone broke. Not surprising, she has a face for radio. And Nia gets an exclusive interview? Maybe she’ll start blubbering. Emphasis on blubber. But when Alexa beats Nia, Nia will blubbering in her blubber. #EW! Will The Goddess suffer the wrath of the Irresistible Force in their Raw Women’s Championship match?
JOHN CENA is here!
?? #RAW @JohnCena pic.twitter.com/Zz0gahal9r
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Atlanta sings “John Cena Sucks~!” for him as he heads for the ring. The Face that Runs the Place didn’t get a response from The Undertaker on a Wrestlemania Match last week, even during a No Disqualification match with the Deadman’s Brother of Destruction, Kane. Cena hears the fans chant, “Undertaker!”, and admits he was wrong. In that they’re out of time and there’s still no answer. Cena was wrong to think there was no response, because silence means “no”. Fans might be upset, but not Cena. Cena did what Cena could to get Taker to do something, but ready or not and Wrestlemania is around the corner. He’ll go fired up like all the fans. Fans have asked about a match, but Cena is going as a fan, too.
Michael Cole even told Cena “that’s stupid, just enter the Battle Royal. Or be Braun’s partner,” or any number of things. Cole hasn’t done his research, Cena won’t do that because he lost the Rumble, the Chamber, and at Fastlane, so just entering another match takes a spot from a full-time spot from someone who earned it. Going against Taker was a last chance moment for them both! It’d be a match where no one’s spot is taken, just two “larger than life” superstars fighting it out. One year ago today, Cena’s life changed, shout-out to Nikki Bella. Everyone reads the news about Cena’s career. He’s fed off the energy of the fans, and maybe this year is the right time for a change.
Fans still chant, “Undertaker!” Hopefully Taker hears that. But Cena will say this now: he’s going as a fan, and he’s “damn proud of it.” Cena is proud to sit and watch the “most amazing Wrestlemania card of all time”, even without him. Daniel Bryan is back where he belongs, and Cena is proud of him for it. Cena is proud to watch the greatest in-ring performer get the moment he deserves, AJ Styles defends the WWE Championship. He’s even proud that Wrestlemania will be on Rusev Day! Elias will do stuff, but Cena does know what WWE stands for. Cena is proud of all the Women’s Division matches, because they continue to prove success is not based on gender. “So ladies and gentlemen,” Cena is damn proud to be a fan!
"I'm going to #WrestleMania as a fan, and I'm DAMN proud of it!" – @JohnCena #RAW pic.twitter.com/xyYLGyyVaa
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
But he’ll take one second to apologize. Cena did everything from in-ring to social media, and he knows the fans did, too. From Dallas to Detroit to Cleveland and Atlanta– Wait, have they really even tried yet? They haven’t? Can Atlanta get loud enough? The fans sure try. “Sounds like Atlanta is about as serious as a Dallas warm-up.” They gotta give way more than that. Make some noise to summon the Undertaker! Atlanta gives it their all, but still not enough. “Hotlanta, you gotta listen to me!” If they want lightning, be the thunder! Shout so they hear you all the way to Death Valley! The fans try a third time, giving 110%, but still nothing. They chant “Undertaker!” once more to see if it’ll work. It echoes out over and over, but it doesn’t seem to be working. Fans turn to boos.
“Hear that, Undertaker?” Four weeks straight, the WWE Universe pours its heart out, yet you don’t do a thing. Cena isn’t upset with Wrestlemania, but he’s upset with Taker. Ignore Cena, fine. But ignore the fans? “You are a dead man walking.” Taker, it’s obvious he left his hat in the ring, but he left his balls at home. Harsh words again, but still no response. And fans turn to chanting for Cena. Cena leaves it at that, because he’s out of ideas. Why is it that Taker won’t respond? Will Taker ever show himself again?
He said he all he could…and still no answer.@JohnCena will see YOU, the @WWEUniverse, THIS SUNDAY at #WrestleMania! pic.twitter.com/f8oS0ypW5S
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Roman Reigns is in the locker room!
Kurt Angle meets with him and says that with no Cena VS Taker, he hopes Roman won’t ruing another ‘Mania match. Heyman agreed to keeping the peace, but Roman doesn’t believe it. Is Lesnar even here? Yes! Then Roman is not going anywhere. Roman has respect for Angle, so he’ll hear Heyman out. But everything for the last year and the last six years Lesnar has disrespected everyone else, Roman will be ready the moment Lesnar says anything stupid. Angle can take the peace treaty back to the pawn shop where he pawned those gold medals. Roman is riled up, will he be able to contain himself when he meets The Beast?
#TheBigDog @WWERomanReigns isn't about to show @BrockLesnar ANY mercy tonight… #RAW pic.twitter.com/fj4sQFptYD
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”
Listen to @IAmEliasWWE strum that ?#RAW pic.twitter.com/jb7Se7IGH8
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The Drifter is back, and as he plays his guitar, he asks Atlanta as he always asks the crowd, “Who Wants to Walk with Elias?!” Atlanta seems very positive about that. Elias has the keys to life, and if you want to save your soul, know that in your heart and with every fiber of your being, WWE means “Walk With Elias”! He’s in Atlanta, but how is this “hellhole of a dump” the last stop before ‘Mania? If Elias was in charge, they’d be in a city that matters. But that’s fine, he’ll be leaving after tonight to put on the greatest performance of a lifetime. For now, silence cell phones, hold applause and shut mouths while he sings.
“I’m Just One Man!” Wait, that’s Slater.
Heath Slater w/ Rhyno VS Elias!
With @Rhyno313 in tow, @HeathSlaterOMRB is looking to make a big splash on #RAW against @IAmEliasWWE! pic.twitter.com/wU2SsykMEp
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The One Man Band wants payback for when Elias not only defeated Rhyno but also ambushed him afterward. They tie up, but Eilas powers Slater to a corner. Elias gives body shots and shoulders, then chops Slater sharp. Elias whips and runs SLater over, but the faens rally with “Heath’s Got Kids!” Slater dodges in a corner, then jabs and haymakers on Elias. Slater whips but Elias reverses, only for Slater to knee him down. Heel kick, too! Slater brings Elias up, but Elias rocks him with a jumping knee! Elias keeps gonig, Drift Away! Cover, Elias wins!
Winner: Elias, by pinfall
Just like that, @IAmEliasWWE makes @HeathSlaterOMRB #DriftAwayon the final #RAW before #WrestleMania!
Next stop, New Orleans… pic.twitter.com/qG4ifemdGG
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Swift but stiff, the Drifter gets his hand raised for another win. What is this performance he speaks of for Wrestlemania? And will it really be as amazing as he makes it out to be?
Braun Strowman encounters Curt Hawkins backstage.
What a coincidence! Hawkins saw what happened out there, and was wondering if Strwowman would pick him. What’s his win-loss record? Umm… Not great, but that’s fine! Strowman can be his big break! Strowman throws Hawkins through a wall!
There go @TheCurtHawkins' hopes of being picked as @BraunStrowman's tag team partner at #WrestleMania… pic.twitter.com/cJhYiDxSJW
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
“There’s your big break.” In other words, he’s not picking Hawkins. But who will Strowman pick for a partner?
Exclusive interview with Nia Jax.
After finding out how two-faced The Goddess was, the Irresistible Force will get revenge in a Raw Women’s Championship match. She sits down with Renee Young, who sympathizes with how “hurt and devastated” she must be. Nia says that emotionally, she felt like she was back to growing up as a kid. But she’s learned that you just need to respect and honor yourself, and ignore what others say about you. You should respect your God-given abilities and seize opportunities. The other women respect and admire Nia and her accomplishments, but Nia has been so down on herself. She can’t believe she thought someone like Alexa was her friend. Alexa said many hurtful things, like how Nia is a “desperate, needy, gullible loser”.
Those comments hurt, but Nia reminded herself, “I don’t take that sh*t.” She’s different, but she loves herself. This is what God and her mama gave her, so she should never feel sorry about that. Alexa is like all the other haters who said she shouldn’t, couldn’t and wouldn’t make it in the WWE. Nia says this directly to Alexa now: “You’re nothing but an insecure little girl.” The little fly is gonna get squashed like a bug! Can Nia win not just for herself but for every person who has ever been mistreated based on their appearance?
"At #WrestleMania, I'm going to SQUASH you like a bug."
That's all @NiaJaxWWE needs to say to #RAW #WomensChampion @AlexaBliss_WWE just five nights before @WrestleMania… pic.twitter.com/igRsXuKUzG
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Alexa Bliss & Mickie James VS Dana Brooke & Asuka!
UP NEXT: #RAW #WomensChampion @AlexaBliss_WWE and @MickieJames team up to take on @DanaBrookeWWE and the undefeated @WWEAsuka! pic.twitter.com/sfaizmzAie
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
The Goddess and #KickieJames look to give the Raw Women’s Champion momentum going into her match, but what good will it do when the Statistician has the undefeated Empress on her side?
Reppin' #TitusWorldwide, it's @DanaBrookeWWE! #RAW pic.twitter.com/UqKrVcpcfW
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
From far and wide, lightyears away, here comes The #EmpressOfTomorrow!#RAW @WWEAsuka pic.twitter.com/aSU5uqoYvC
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Dana starts against Alexa, assuring Asuka her Streak won’t be tanked in this tag match. Alexa doesn’t even take Dana seriously, but they tie up and Dana gets the wristlock. Dana keeps Alexa away from Mickie, as well as the ropes, so Alexa stomps her foot. Alexa gets the wristlock but Dana reverses it back. The fans chant “Biscuit Butt” at Alexa but she forearms her way out of the hold. Alexa whips but Dana reverses, handspring back elbow in the corner! Dana fireman carry, but Alexa slips out to reel her into a kidney punch. Tag to Mickie, and the mean girls mug Dana with a kick. Mickie wristlocks and hammerlocks Dana, but Dana slips around to roll up, TWO. Fans want Asuka, so Mickie taunts the fans as she hits Dana. Dana hits back, then pushes Mickie to a corner.
Dana rams in shoulders, then lets up long enough to whip her corner to corner. Another handspring but Mickie dodges and boots Dana down! Asuka coaches Dana up but has to stay back. Mickie stomps and kicks Dana more, toying with her even. She brings Dana up, fans keep cheering for Asuka, and Dana scoop slams Mickie down! Dana runs, but handsprings onto knees! Mickie poses and embraces the heat while we go to break.
The team of @MickieJames and @AlexaBliss_WWE is in FULL control on #RAW… pic.twitter.com/MRTNBk2Rf1
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Raw returns once more to Mickie holding Dana down in a chinlock. Asuka rallies the fans and Dana feeds off their energy to bump her way out of the hold. She runs but Mickie yanks her down by her hair! Mickie puts Dana back in the hold, Dana endures. Dana sits up, the fans rally but Mickie thrashes. Dana still stands up and fights out, then runs, but into the kitchen sink knee! Mickie drags Dana over, tags Alexa, and Mickie whips Alexa in for the slap! Alexa toys with Dana, kicking her while she’s down, then stomping skateboard style. Cover, TWO, but Alexa keeps on Dana with another chinlock. Dana continues to endure, Asuka still rallying for her. Dana fights up and out again, but Alexa knees back. Alexa wants a tag, but Dana suplexes her!
Both women are down, crawling for their corners. Hot tags to Mickie and Asuka! The Empress rallies with a flurry of strikes. Mickie runs, but into the pop-up knee! Asuka unleashes kick after kick, then runs to hip attack Alexa down! Mickie bails out but Asuka goes after her with an apron sliding kick!
HEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEERE'S ASUKA!#RAW @WWEAsuka pic.twitter.com/DuUbZz6Qth
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Asuka curses her out in Japanese, then puts Mickie back in the ring. Mickie hits the Mick Kick! Cover, TWO! Another, ONE, and Mickie throws frustrated hands. Mickie calms down to climb up top, but Asuka gets under her to put on the Asuka Lock! Mickie is trapped, reaching for ropes, but she taps! Asuka & Dana win!
Winners: Dana & Asuka, Asuka by submission
But Alexa pounces! She and Mickie won’t let her get out of this unharmed. Dana returns but she’s only caught in a 2-on-1 DDT!
VICTORY for the team of @WWEAsuka & @DanaBrookeWWE, but @AlexaBliss_WWE & @MickieJames didn't get the memo… #RAW pic.twitter.com/bZTDz0ZYII
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
But then NIA appears! The Brutal Beauty runs to the ring, Alexa runs away but gets caught! Mickie saves Alexa again, but Nia just throws her off with one arm, to squash her in a corner. Then fireman’s carry, Samoan Drop! Nia put down Alexa’s newest bestie, will she crush Alexa once and for all at Wrestlemania?
A tale of two faces heading into #WrestleMania this Sunday…#RAW @AlexaBliss_WWE @NiaJaxWWE pic.twitter.com/Bcpov3OVvo
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Kurt Angle finds Heyman & Lesnar backstage.
Where are they going? To the ring, obviously. Heyman will be positive about Roman Reigns. The Beast and his Advocate continue on their way out, will this last Raw before ‘Mania finish with fury?
UP NEXT: @HeymanHustle and @BrockLesnar are on their way to the ring to talk "positive" about the challenger for the #UniversalChampionship at #WrestleMania, @WWERomanReigns! #RAW pic.twitter.com/OJk1sWmALa
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Paul Heyman & Brock Lesnar head to the ring!
Atlanta becomes Suplex City as they walk out, but other WWE superstars are used to form a barrier between the ring and the ramp. Heyman begins with introductions, but that extra security is a bit distracting.
A WALL of #RAW Superstars seems to be blocking the entrance ramp while @BrockLesnar & @HeymanHustle address the @WWEUniverse… pic.twitter.com/9DbrWmfHAD
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Just because Angle got emasculated when he failed to help Ronda Rousey, this is clearly overcompensation. He thinks he has control over Roman Reigns? The only one with control is the “reigning, defending, undisputed” Universal Champion, BROCK LESNAR! “It’s true, it’s damn true.” And Heyman hereby promises to tell “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God.” And the truth is, the last time Wrestlemania was in New Orleans, Heyman gave us a promise that Lesnar would break Undertaker’s Streak. Fans booed then, they boo now, but it wasn’t a promise, it was a spoiler alert. It happened, and Lesnar & Heyman laughed at the doubters.
And Wrestlemania, back in New Orleans, “the only two beings that hold a Wrestlemania victory over the Undertaker” collide for the title. Everyone acts like Roman is fated to dethrone Lesnar this year as if that’s the spoiler. To tell the truth, you should respect Roman’s talent, his family bloodline, his victories and his “badassery”, but the truth is, Wrestlemania Sunday, 4/8/18, in New Orleans, Lesnar will F5 Roman and pin him in the ring “1-2-3”. That’s not a promise or a prediction, that’s a spoiler. Heyman says an unfortunate truth that accidents happen. If Lesnar were to injure himself hurting someone else, then this will be the last time you see Lesnar on Raw. Heyman will save the good-byes for later, but he’ll dispel something “out of character” for Lesnar. Lesnar’s persona built since 2002, his dominance and lack of respect, is all true!
If anything, his persona is held back, because Lesnar feels no one anywhere is worth even holding his jockstrap. No one has the money or the power to hold Lesnar anywhere. Roman’s only choice is to accept defeat, because he has no other option! “So here’s how it goes.” Roman wants a victory party? No, he’ll go home to his wife and kids and fathers, uncles and cousins and admit he got beat, victimized and conquered by BROCK LESNAR. The truth is, Roman isn’t a Big Dog and this isn’t his Yard, he’s just another notch on the belt. That is to say, “you’re just Brock Lesnar’s b*tch.” But Roman Reigns appears!
#TheBigDog @WWERomanReigns has heard enough, but he's going to have to get through this WALL of #RAW Superstars if he wants a piece of @BrockLesnar! #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/VvqyRVJuxv
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Roman walks up to the wall of Raw superstars, but they won’t let him go. They’re full-timers, standing up for the part-time “bastard”? Just think about it guys. They do think about it, and even discuss it. From The Bar to Titus Worldwide to the Revival, they stand aside.
CLEAR PATH ATTAINED for @WWERomanReigns…#RAW #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/Nr0AYJ4RUh
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
Roman walks right down the ramp, and Lesnar dares him to do something. Lesnar wants Roman to think about this real hard, but fans are actually on Roman’s side. Roman walks up the steel steps, and gets in the ring. Lesnar puts the belt down, and the two circle. The tension mounts, but Lesnar slips out of the ring, retrieving his belt in the process. Lesnar and Heyman saunter around the ring, Roman keeping his eyes on them. That gets Lesnar to get a chair, just like last week. Lesnar brings that chair in with him, but Roman doesn’t flinch.
The two circle again, Heyman saying Lesnar should “Victimize him!” but SUPERMAN PUNCH! And another! And another! Roman reloads while Lesnar flounders, a FOURTH Superman Punch! Lesnar slowly stirs, going for the chair again, SUPERMAN PUNCH Number Five!
SUPERMAN PUNCH
SUPERMAN PUNCH
SUPERMAN PUNCH
SUPERMAN PUNCH
SUPERMAN PUNCH#RAW #WrestleMania @WWERomanReigns @BrockLesnar pic.twitter.com/OseZRhFjl3— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
Roman picks up the belt, and holds it up over The Beast. Fans duel while Roman stares up at the sign, but then Lesnar revives to F5 Roman!!
It is NEVER safe to take your eyes off #TheBeast @BrockLesnar…#RAW #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/irFStKt8F9
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 3, 2018
The Beast gets his belt back as he exits the ring. Lesnar survives five Superman Punches tonight while Roman manages to move after one F5. What will it take for one of these men to decisively defeat the other and be Universal Champion?
It all comes down to THIS SUNDAY at the @MBSuperdome for the #UniversalChampionship!@BrockLesnar. @WWERomanReigns. #WrestleMania. #RAW pic.twitter.com/HPkAxT46nz
— WWE (@WWE) April 3, 2018
My Thoughts:
Tonight’s Raw is not how a Wrestlemania Go-Home Raw should go. The first hour was the peak and then it dropped off a cliff somewhere. The opening face-off for the Mixed Tag match was really good, Ronda came off much more comfortable talking trash with Steph. The Authority standing tall just seemed like 50-50 booking to try and keep everyone even until the match. We know Ronda wins, obviously. Bayley VS Sonya was good, and there was good character stuff with Bayley, Sasha and Absolution to center Bayley VS Sasha as the story of the Women’s Battle Royal. Finn VS Rollins 3 was Match of the Night, by a long shot. Miz watching and being an almost Face made it even more fun for the TV audience, this is definitely going to be a showstealer regardless of who wins.
The Tag Team Championship segment was ridiculous, both in a good and in a bad way. Braun’s brother “Brain”, great little pun but it’s just foolish for Strowman to play jokes when he doesn’t have to. Him throwing Hawkins through a wall was great, though. But then to follow this up with only part of Hardy VS Goldust, Alexa doubling down on being WWE’s Goddess of Mean Girls, and then Cena NOT getting Taker just killed the energy of the night. Cena did great as always, and then set up for American Badass Taker by saying “dead man walking,” as that was one of Taker’s other themes during that phase, but it was just a string of disappointments. Elias also winning a quick filler match didn’t do much for anyone, other than make it seem even more like he’s Strowman’s partner (to my personal dismay).
It felt like things picked up in the third, but that was too late. Nia’s interview and her victim angle can go either way. Yes, she seems emotionally weak by letting things get to her like they did, but at the same time, she’s becoming the Face that represents any and everyone who has ever been bullied just on looks. The Women’s Tag was a good segue, and of course Asuka wins to keep her Streak. Nia gets another triumphant moment running Alexa off, so I’d hope Nia goes over, a “You Deserve It!” chant would really fit her crowning moment. The closing was rather good, too, all things considered. Heyman has another great promo, Roman gets the locker room and some fans on his side, but Lesnar keeps up being the dominant Heel. This ending was far better than the infamous tug-o-war over the belt, so give it that.
My Score: 7.5/10
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Will it be lights out on Los Ingobernables de Japon?
Bishamon won last round, but so did Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji. Now they clash in the main event of A Block’s second round! Who keeps winning in this World Tag League?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Kickoff – Shoma Kato VS Daiki Nagai; Shoma wins.
- Six Man Tag: TMDK VS Bullet Club; TMDK wins.
- Six Man Tag: Taichi, Taka Michinoku & DOUKI VS The House of Torture; Taichi, Taka & Douki win.
- Tetsuya Naito & BUSHI VS Boltin Oleg & Toru Yano; Oleg & Yano win.
- Six Man Tag: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Jado & Katsuya Murashima VS The United Empire; The United Empire wins.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi VS Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman; Cobb & Callum win.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Gabe Kidd & SANADA VS KENTA & Chase Owens; Gabe & Sanada win.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma VS Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa; Shota & Honma win.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Bishamon VS Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji; Bishamon wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Here are the current A Block standings!
Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa: 1-0, 2 points
Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman: 1-0, 2 points
Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji: 1-0, 2 points
Bishamon: 1-0, 2 points
Gabe Kidd & Sanada: 0-1, 0 points
Kenta & Chase Owens: 0-1, 0 points
Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi: 0-1, 0 points
Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma: 0-1, 0 points
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi VS Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman!
The Funky Sauce had a less than hot debut losing to Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji. And now, they’re running into the Imperial Unit & Prince of Pace, who are already setting a good pace with their win. Can Zayne & Taguchi heat things up? Or will they be conquered by The United Empire?
The teams sort out and Cobb calls out Taguchi’s hips. Zayne says oishi (tasty) but Cobb is pretty sure that’s not true. The debate on oishi or oishi janai continues, but we finally get Zayne and Callum starting. The fans rally up at the bell, and Callum circles with Zayne. They tie up, go around, and Zayne puts Callum on ropes. Zayne lets off cleanly and quickly and the two reset. They tie up, Callum puts Zayne on ropes now, and the ref counts. Callum lets off slowly, but still cleanly. The fans applaud and the two reset. Zayne and Callum tie up again, Zayne headlocks, but Callum powers up and out. Zayne runs Callum over!
The fans applaud and Zayne smirks. Things speed up, Callum hurdles but Zayne cartwheels over. The fans cheer as Zayne plays with his hair. Callum runs up but Zayne wrenches and whips him. Callum ducks ‘n’ dodges and BOOTS Zayne down! The fans cheer and Callum mocks the hair twisting. Zayne goes to a corner, the fans rally up, and Callum runs in. Zayne dodges, runs back in, but Callum puts him on the apron. Zayne slingshots back in to RANA! A rough tumble but Callum is up. Zayne waistlocks, Callum switches, but Zayne bucks the O’Conner. Zayne DUMPS Callum to the apron, avoids the shoulder tackle and KICKS!
Zayne runs side to side to ROLLING AX KICK! The fans fire up while Callum flops down. Zayne drags Callum up, tags in Taguchi, and Funky Sauce SPANKS Callum! Taguchi BLASTS Cobb for good measure before he and Zayne double whip Callum to a corner. Taguchi HIP ATTACKS, then sets up for Zayne to LEAP FROG SHOTGUN! Callum sits down, Zayne rolls back and he headscissors Taguchi to CANNONBALL Callum! Zayne then CANNONBALLS Callum himself! Taguchi covers, TWO! The fans fire up and Taguchi brings Callum into a chinlock. Callum endures the knee in his back as Taguchi pulls on him.
Taguchi puts on a headscissors and he squeezes tight! Callum endures, fights around, and kicks his way over to the ROPEBREAK! Taguchi lets go as the fans cheer, and Taguchi taunts Cobb with his cheeks. Taguchi goes back but Callum UP KICKS him! Callum skins the cat to the apron, slingshots to somersault, and then SOBATS! Both men fall and the fans rally up. Callum grits his teeth, rolls to the corner and tags in Cobb. Cobb storms up to stomp Taguchi, then he steps on Taguchi to step to Zayne. Cobb stands on Taguchi to use him as a surfboard! Cobb mocks Zayne’s hair twisting, then “apologizes” as he steps off Taguchi.
Cobb stands Taguchi up to HEADBUTT him down! Cobb drags Taguchi up, bumps him off buckles, then tags Callum in. Callum stomps Taguchi, but Taguchi kicks back. Callum stomps Taguchi’s leg! Callum clamps on a chinlock and he grinds Taguchi down. Taguchi fights around to the ROPEBREAK! Callum lets go and paces around. Taguchi rises, Callum kicks him, and Callum eggs Taguchi on. Taguchi CHOPS! Callum knees low in return! Callum whips Taguchi to a corner, runs corner to corner, but Taguchi BOOTS him! Taguchi goes up to headscissor for the DEADLY OSHIRI! Taguchi then runs up, but into an atomic drop!
Taguchi hobbles, Callum runs, but Taguchi somersaults to HIP ATTACK! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Taguchi crawls, hot tag to Zayne! Zayne runs past Callum to BLAST Cobb! Zayne fires forearms and elbows on Callum, then mule kicks! Zayne runs, but blocks a boot first! Zayne KNEES Callum to a corner, runs up and UPPERCUTS! Zayne puts Callum up top, climbs up after him, but Callum fires body shots! Callum shoves Zayne but Zayne flips back and rolls through! Zayne runs back up to JUMP RANA! The fans fire up and Zayne scoops Callum, for the BAJA BLAST! Cover, TWO! Callum stays in this but the fans rally with Zayne.
Zayne pounds the mat and the fans clap along. Cobb runs up, dodges Zayne and ROCKS him! Cobb runs in, Zayne dodges at the corner, then Zayne comes back. Cobb dodges, Zayne QUEBRADAS, but Cobb catches Zayne! Cobb wobbles and staggers, Zayne slips down to FINAL CUT! Cobb bails out, Callum runs up, but Zayne avoid the Penalty Kick! Callum avoids the Eddy Gordo kick to shove, but Zayne runs him over! Callum kips up, but Zayne avoids the enzigiri! Zayne runs, MARIPOSA, but Callum makes it a ghost pin! TWO!! Zayne stands, into a ROUNDHOUSE! Taguchi tags in and hurries after Callum!
Callum swings, Taguchi dodges but Callum elbows. Callum runs, Taguchi runs, but Callum catches him! Torture rack, GO TO HOSPITAL!! The fans fire up and Cobb tags in. Cobb RAMS Taguchi into the corner! Callum runs up to forearm SMASH, then he sets up under Cobb’s UPPERCUT! Callum BLASTS Zayne, goes to the apron, and he ENZIGIRIS Taguchi into a fireman’s carry! Callum is up top, DOUBLE STOMP and DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cobb sits Taguchi up to HIP ATTACK! And then GACHIMUCHI MOONSAULT FLOPS as Taguchi moves! Taguchi comes back, KETSUYE!! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Cobb survives, and Taguchi pounds the mat. Taguchi runs, but Cobb catches the hip attack! Zayne CLUBS Cobb, Taguchi HIP ATTACKS! Zayne DROPKICKS, Taguchi FLYING HIP ATTACKS! MARIPOSA! Cover, TWO!! Cobb survives, but Taguchi has OH MY GAH ANKLE!! Cobb endures, rolls, and he BOOTS Taguchi away! Taguchi KETSUYES!! Cover, TWO!! Cobb still has power to spare but Taguchi has some of his own! Taguchi powers up in the corner, “ORYA~!” KETSU- NO, Cobb rolls it to a waistlock! Callum wipes Zayne out, then he BOOTS Taguchi into the GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, but Zayne breaks it!
The fans fire up while Callum TOSSES Zayne back out. Cobb hauls Taguchi up, ripcord and TOUR OF THE ISLANDS!! Cover, Cobb & Callum win!
Winners: Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Zayne & Taguchi earn 0)
Another round and another win for The United Empire, but also another loss for Funky Sauce. Will these trends continue through the rest of the league? Or can Zayne & Taguchi turn things around before the end?
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Gabe Kidd & SANADA VS KENTA & Chase Owens!
No NJPW round robin tournament would be complete without Bullet Club VS Bullet Club! The Mad Man & Cold Skull lost to Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa, Fang Revived & Crown Jewel lost to Bishamon, so both teams are in a fighting mood. Which faction within the club comes out feeling Just Too Sweet?
Aw hell, Gabe & Sanada attack Kenta & Chase during their entrance! No mercy just because they’re all Bullet Club! Sanada brings Chase into the crowd while Gabe and Kenta brawl down the aisle! Gabe then brings Kenta around to another area. Chase whips but Sanada reverses and he BOWLS Chase into chairs! A strike for Sanada, but Kenta does the same to Gabe! Sanada JAMS Chase with a chair, then CLAWS his face! Gabe and Kenta brawl up into the bleachers! Gabe ROCKS Kenta, brings him to the railing at the back, and Sanada SMACKS Chase off more chairs. Gabe mockingly asks for Too Sweet but Kenta ROCKS him!
Gabe goes to another stairway and walks down but Kenta storms up behind him, Kenta CLUBS Gabe, and now Chase has Sanada way over in the back row of the opposite end! Chase can tell where Kenta and Gabe are because of the spotlights following them! Chase CLUBS Sanada, then leaves him behind to go help Kenta. Gabe CHOKES Kenta with a shirt! Gabe mockingly offers the Too Sweet, then cusses Kenta out. Gabe says, “We run this!” in reference to War Dogs over OG Bullet Club. But then Chase goes after Gabe! Sanada hurries to help Gabe and now the brawling is all in the same area! Kenta has Sanada now while Chase keeps after Gabe.
Things finally go back to the ground level and to ringside. Kenta ROCKS Sanada, but Sanada ROCKS Kenta! Gabe CHOKES Chase with a chair! Gabe storms around but Sanada does the same to Kenta on the other side. Chase CHOPS and fires forearms, but Gabe doesn’t flinch. So Chase CLAWS Gabe’s face! Sanada ROCKS Kenta, stalks him, and then Gabe SMACKS Chase with a chair! The Young Lions make sure fans are safely out of the way while Kenta CLAWS Sanada’s face. Gabe brings Chase to ringside and SMACKS him off the apron. Gabe then hurries to help Sanada as he BLINDSIDES Kenta!
Gabe and Kenta brawl now, and Gabe DECKS Kenta! Gabe & Sanada agree to go get Chase, but wait, where is he? Chase runs up from behind to CLOBBER them both! Chase CLUBS Sanada, but Gabe CLAWS Chase’s face! Gabe POSTS Chase, and finally, Sanada puts Chase in the ring. Gabe & Sanada Too Sweet, and Gabe mean mugs Tenzan on commentary. Sanada steps in, and this is finally a match! Sanada CLUBS Chase, whips him, but Chase ducks ‘n’ WRECKS Gabe with a dropkick! Chase RAMS Sanada, HOTSHOTS him, then calls to Kenta. Kenta finds his way in and Chase stomps Sanada in a corner.
Kenta storms up, he and Chase double whip Sanada to the corner. Chase runs in, forearm SMASH, and then he sits Sanada down. Kenta runs up to HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! Chase goes up while Sanada is in the drop zone, for a MACHO ELBOW! Cover, TWO! Chase snarls, Kenta DOUBLE STOMPS Gabe on the outside! Chase keeps on Sanada, reels him in, but Sanada fights the tuck! Chase ROCKS Sanada, whips him to a corner, but Sanada goes up and out then to the floor. Chase chases Sanada around, but Gabe sends Kenta into railing! Sanada KICKS ropes to jam Chase up! Sanada tags in Gabe and the War Dogs bring Chase up.
Gabe & Sanada double suplex, but Chase fights it! Kenta’s back and he BOOTS Gabe! Sanada DROPKICKS Kenta! Chase runs up on Sanada. Sanada wrenches him, but Chase spins through. Sanada fights the suplex to MAGIC SCREW! Gabe is back and he brings Chase up. “I’m a Mad Man-” Chase wrenches out, ducks a lariat, and then spins Gabe, FINAL CUT! Cover, TWO! Gabe stays in this while Kenta and Sanada fight on the outside. Chase locks ‘n’ loads, runs up on Gabe, but Gabe blocks the C-Trigger! Chase fires forearms to get free, but Gabe ROCKS Chase! The ref reprimands about closed fists, but Chase rebounds!
Gabe dodges Chase and hits the COMEBACKER LARIAT! And then a BRAINBUSTER! Cover, Kenta breaks it! Kenta CLUBS Gabe, but Sanada CLAWS Kenta’s face! Sanada TOSSES Kenta out and Gabe brings Chase up. Gabe then pushes Chase over, because he says this is for Kenny Omega! Gabe aims a finger gun at Chase! “Good bye, and F YOU, Kenny!!” Gabe runs up to V-TRIGGER!! Then a PILEDRIVER!! Cover, War Dogs win!!
Winners: Gabe Kidd & Sanada, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Kenta & Chase earn 0)
The War Dogs struck first and never let up, and now they win to break even. Wait, as Kenta & Chase are helped away, and even as Sanada heads out, Gabe sits cross-legged while he has the mic. “Let me be very effin’ clear. You crossed the line as soon as you ran to Tokyo Sports and started calling me all this s*it. Unprofessional, all this s*it. Let me make this very effin’ clear! You said you wanted, you said the fans wanted, I said it before: I don’t give a F what anyone wants but me! And I wanna end your career! So iitengo (January 5th), Gabe Kidd, Kenny Omega, LET’S EFFIN’ GO!!”
The fans are fired up to hear WrestleDynasty now has a massive crossover match added! But will Gabe keep making this about The Best Bout Machine until it comes back to bite him? Or is that just the motivation he needs so he and Sanada can take the trophies?
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma VS Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa!
The Roughneck & Everyone’s Kokeshi had a rough opening round with their loss, but The Front Man & The Mullet had a mighty main event win. But the tournament might be taking a backseat when Shota wants after the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship. Will Shota earn a title match while heading for the trophies? Or will ZSJ prove Shota’s just not ready?
As ZSJ & “Roy” step into the ring, Shota gets in ZSJ’s face so ZSJ taunts him with the world title. The ref has them stand down, and the teams sort out. Shota and ZSJ start and they tie right up at the bell. Shota headlocks, ZSJ powers up and out, then he BOOTS Shota! Shota roars, ROCKS ZSJ and runs to RAM him! ZSJ rebounds to BOOT SHota again! ZSJ headlocks, Shota powers out, and they RAM shoulders! Shota rebounds to RUN ZSJ over, but ZSJ is up to UPPERCUT Shota! ZSJ runs, but Shota DROPKICKS ZSJ down! The fans fire up with Shota while ZSJ bails out. Shota pursues and CLUBS ZSJ down!
Shota whips ZSJ hard into railing, then storms up on ZSJ to whip him into more railing! ZSJ comes back to BOOT Shota! Shota is right up to SHOTGUN ZSJ! The fans fire up while both men are down! Honma BLASTS Oiwa for good measure but the ref reprimands him. Shota stands and brings ZSJ up. Shota puts ZSJ in, which the fans applaud, and Shota covers. ONE, but Shota stays on ZSJ. Shota CLUBS ZSJ, tags Honma, and Honma stomps ZSJ in the corner. The ref counts but Honma digs his boot in. The ref counts, Honma steps off, and Honma drags ZSJ up. Honma CLUBS ZSJ, CLUBS him again, then follows him to ropes.
Honma CHOPS ZSJ and ZSJ sputters. Honma CHOPS again, and CHOPS again! ZSJ hobbles away but Honma is on him with a whip. Honma ELBOWS ZSJ down, pats his head and runs, but he stops short of the kokeshi as ZSJ moves! ZSJ grabs an arm and wrangles Honma into a TRIANGLE HOLD! Oiwa BLASTS Shota while Honma scrambles around! The fans fire up as Honma fights and drags ZSJ with him. ZSJ shifts to have just the arm, or no, not just the arm! It’s like a one-armed Italian Stretch! Honma still fights to the ROPEBREAK! Fans applaud, and ZSJ lets go to tag Oiwa. Oiwa drags Honma up to scoop and SLAM!
Oiwa pushes Honma down to then drop an elbow! Cover, ONE! Oiwa clamps onto Honma with an armlock, but Honma fights up. Oiwa wrenches and RAMS Honma into a corner. Oiwa CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS again! Honma kicks and kicks but Oiwa CHOPS him down! Oiwa wraps Honma’s arm around ropes and pulls! The ref counts, Oiwa lets go, and Oiwa headlocks. Oiwa brings Honma over and tags ZSJ. ZSJ cravats Honma for the neck wrench, then he wrangles Honma to the mat. ZSJ bridges with the neck wrench! Honma endures so ZSJ shifts and bridges! Then shifts and bridges!
ZSJ stands to NECK TWIST! Honma writhes but ZSJ covers, TWO! The fans cheer as Honma toughs it out. Shota gets the fans to chant for “HONMA! HONMA!” ZSJ PENALTY- NO, Honma blocks the kick! ZSJ fires SLAP after SLAP but Honma holds on! ZSJ eggs Honma on, so Honma SLAPS ZSJ down! The fans fire up while both men are down! Honma crawls over, hot tag to Shota! Shota runs up to fire forearms on ZSJ! Shota whips, ZSJ reverses but Shota CLOBBERS ZSJ! Shota BLASTS Oiwa for good measure! The fans fire up with Shota as he whips ZSJ corner to corner. Shota runs up, to UPPERCUT!
Shota reels ZSJ in, FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Not quite perfect but Shota shrugs that off. Shota drags ZSJ up, but ZSJ fights the clinch to go for the arm. ZSJ elbows Shota, whips, but Shota reverses to trip ZSJ, turn him over, and STF! ZSJ fights the crossface portion, slips out and wrangles Shota into a FUJIWARA ARMBAR! Shota fights up, but ZSJ pushes on the arm! Shota still fights, slips around, and arm-drags free! ZSJ avoids the dropkick to the leg to NECK TWIST! Tag to Oiwa and Oiwa drags Shota up. Oiwa headlocks, Shota powers out, but Oiwa runs Shota over!
Things keep moving, Oiwa counters Shota’s hip toss with a hip toss! Shota gets up, Oiwa DROPKICKS! Oiwa kips up and the fans fire up! Shota stands Oiwa up, scoops and POWERSLAMS, to then run and SPLASH DOWN! Cover, TWO! Oiwa keeps on Shota but Shota fights the anaconda plex! Shota CLUBS away on Oiwa, then catches him to a clinch. Oiwa slips free, shoves, but Shota dropkicks the legs out! The fans fire up while both men are down! Shota crawls away, hot tag to Honma! Honma storms up to CHOP Oiwa! And CHOP! And CHOP again! Oiwa is in a corner, Honma whips him corner to corner, then runs up to ELBOW! And BULLDOG!
The fans fire up with Honma and he runs, KOKESHI FLOPS as Oiwa moves! Oiwa brings Honma up, but Honma fires hands! Oiwa ROCKS Honma back! Honma fires another flurry, but Oiwa ROCKS him again! Oiwa runs to ROLLING ELBOW! Honma falls and the fans fire up! Oiwa watches Honma go to a corner, and then he runs in, DROPKICK! And BIG back suplex! Cover, TWO! Honma stays in his and the fans fire up! Oiwa drags Honma up, gut wrenches, but Honma fights it! Honma wrenches out to short arm LARIAT! Oiwa stays up to short arm LARIAT in return! Honma short arm LARIATS, but then Oiwa short arm LARIATS!
Oiwa fires short arm LARIATS again and again, then finally LARIATS Honma down! Cover, but Shota breaks it! ZSJ grabs Shota and drags him out by a leg! ANKLE LOCK! Shota BOOTS ZSJ into railing! Oiwa has the SLEEPER on Honma! Honma reaches out, but Oiwa keeps him from ropes! But Honma slips around to the back, BIG back suplex! But Oiwa holds onto the SLEEPER! Oiwa drags Honma up to his feet, spins him, and THE- NO, Honma blocks the lariat! Oiwa dodges a haymaker to ROCK Honma! Honma ROCKS Oiwa! Oiwa DOUBLE CHOPS! Honma HEADBUTTS, and then JUMPING KOKESHIS!!
The fans fire up while both men are down! Honma and Oiwa crawl, hot tags to ZSJ and Shota! The fans fire up as ZSJ BOOTS! Shota fires a forearm! ZSJ nods and steps back to Shota. ZSJ UPPERCUTS, but Shota UPPERCUTS in return! ZSJ shakes that off to UPPERCUT! Shota staggers, scowls, and comes back to UPPERCUT! ZSJ wobbles but he nods, before he UPPERCUTS again! Both men steady themselves, and Shota comes back to UPPERCUT! ZSJ staggers and sways, but he stays on his feet. ZSJ leans on the ropes, then stands up tall. The fans fire up as ZSJ UPPERCUTS! Shota UPPERCUTS! The UPPERCUTS go back and forth, faster and faster!
Shota UPPERCUTS and ZSJ drops to his knees! The ref has Shota hold on, maybe ZSJ is rattled. ZSJ stands but Shota UPPERCUTS again and again! ZSJ fires up but runs into an UPPERCUT! Shota roars and the fans fire up again! ZSJ stands to SLAP Shota!! Shota wobbles but even ZSJ has to steady himself. Shota drops to his knees to stabilize, and the fans rally up again. Shota rises, so ZSJ KICKS him! And KICKS! Shota shakes his head so ZSJ KICKS! ZSJ paces but Shota nods. Shota rises and eggs ZSJ! ZSJ says fine, and he KICKS, KICKS, and KICKS! Shota growls, then he blocks the kick!
Shota stands to ROCK ZSJ! ZSJ roars, but Shota catches the kick, trips ZSJ, and then steps into the STF!! ZSJ reaches out but Shota drags him from ropes! S T F! Oiwa stomps away on Shota until he lets go! Honma CLUBS Oiwa then throws him out. Honma helps Shota stand and then brings ZSJ around. Honma whips ZSJ to a corner, runs up, and he LARIATS! Feed to Shota’s POP-UP KNEE! Shota then feeds ZSJ to a LARIAT! Clinch and EXPLODER! Honma gets moving, BASEMENT KOKESHI! IGNITION!! Cover, Oiwa breaks it! Honma CLUBS Oiwa and tosses him again, then tells Shota to finish it!
Shota goes to the corner and he takes aim. BLAZE- ARMBAR!! ZSJ catches the Blaze Blade, but then Shota shifts around! ZSJ still wants the arm, Shota has the stack! TWO! ARMBAR!! Honma hits the FALLING KOKESHI!! The fans are thunderous but here comes Oiwa! Honma runs at him, JUMPING KOKESHI FLOPS as Oiwa moves! Oiwa calls to ZSJ as he brings up Shota. Shota fires a forearm but Oiwa shakes his head. Oiwa eggs Shota on so Shota fires up! Shota ROLLING- NO, Oiwa ducks to SLEEPER! And THE- NO, Shota ducks The Grip and a JUMPING KOKESHI takes Oiwa down!
The fans fire up as Shota aims at ZSJ again. BLINDSIDE KNEE in the corner! And then a TORNADO DDT! Shota drags ZSJ up to elevate, but ZSJ wrenches out! ZSJ PELES the arm! Then BOOTS the lariat! ZSJ ducks the enzigiri to PENALTY KICK! Shota is right up, but ZSJ has him in a full nelson! Shota breaks it, only for ZSJ to GERMAN SUPLEX! ZSJ runs up, but into a POP-UP DEATH RIDER!! The fans are thunderous as Shota hauls ZSJ up. But ZSJ scoops first! ZACK DRIVER!! But ZSJ can’t make the cover! The fans are thunderous again while Shota and ZSJ stir! ZSJ and Shota crawl, but then Oiwa BLASTS Honma down!
Oiwa helps ZSJ up while Shota finds he has no partner! Shota turns around, into an ELBOW from Oiwa! ZSJ BOOTS Shota, then feeds him to Oiwa’s ANACONDA SUPLEX! Oiwa sets Shota up for ZSJ’S LARIAT! Cover, HONMA BREAKS IT! The fans fire up again but now Oiwa has the SLEEPER on Honma! ROUNDHOUSE and THE GRIP!! The fans fire up with TMDK as they drag Shota up. They double whip but Shota reverses! Shota kicks off ZSJ to TORNADO DDT Oiwa! Shota then runs up, but DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Shota and ZSJ stay up, so they go again. ZSJ KICKS Shota’s lariat, but Shota SWATS ZSJ’s!
Shota ROCKS ZSJ, ROLLING- SLAP from ZSJ! ZSJ scoops, Shota slips free! Shota backslides, ZSJ rolls through, then fights the underhooks! O’Conner Roll, but Shota trips ZSJ to go for an arm! Another backslide, but another roll through, BLAZE BLADE POINT BLANK!! The fans are thunderous again as Shota rises! Shota aims from a corner, and hits a BLAZE- NO, ZSJ backslides! But Shota rolls through so he can DEATH RIDER!!! Cover, SHOTA & HONMA WIN!!!
Winners: Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma, by pinfall (gains 2 points; ZSJ & Oiwa earn 0)
The Mighty Don’t Kneel, but the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion just fell to this Reiwa Musketeer! World Tag League aside, will Shota now bring that Paradigm Shift to the Tokyo Dome? Or will ZSJ make sure this is still TMDK’s WrestleKingdom?
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Bishamon VS Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji!
Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi made it Lights Out last round against Kenta & Chase Owens while The Rampaging Dragon & Gene Blast were tranquilo against Funky Sauce. Only one team can stay spotless, can the Fierce Warrior & Headhunter slay these twin dragons? Or will Los Ingobernables de Japon be that much closer to the trophies?
The teams sort out and after LIJ fist bumps, Yota calls out Goto. Goto accepts and the fans rally as the bell rings. Goto and Yota circle, tie up, and are in a deadlock. Goto finds a point of leverage, he puts Yota on ropes, but then lets off cleanly. The fans applaud and the two reset. They tie up but Yota kicks low. Yota headlocks, Goto powers up and out, but Yota RAMS him! Goto stays up, he runs, and he RAMS Yota! Yota rebounds to CLOBBER Goto! Yota brings Goto up, CHOPS him, but Goto CHOPS back! Yota CHOPS again! Goto backs away to ropes but Yota is on him. Yota whips but Goto grabs ropes!
Hashi tags in, Goto BOOTS Yota, then Bishamon runs Yota over! Then ZANMAI! Takagi storms in but Hashi mule kicks! Bishamon sets up, “Se no!” And they DRUM away on Takagi! The fans cheer while Hashi flexes. Hashi brings Yota up, ROCKS him, and Yota goes to a corner. Hashi CHOPS, but Yota eggs him on. Hashi CHOPS again, and again! Yota sits down and the fans rally up. Hashi looms over Yota, brings him up, and whips him corner to corner. Hashi runs up but Yota BOOTS him! Hashi comes back, blocks the boot, btu Yota brings Hashi down for the STOMP! Takagi runs to BLAST Goto, then goes out after him!
Takagi sends Goto into railing! The fans cheer, and Yota snapmares Hashi for a chinlock. Hashi endures so Yota ELBOWS him in the head! Yota then drags Hashi up, ROCKS him in the back, and Hashi falls against ropes. Yota tags Takagi and Takagi chinlocks Hashi in the ropes. Red Shoes reprimands then counts, so Takagi lets go quickly. Takagi hauls Hashi up to RAM him into the corner again and again. Takagi stomps Hashi, whips him to ropes, then KNEES him! Takagi suplexes high and hard! The fans applaud while Takagi keeps his eyes on Goto. Takagi goes to Hashi, sits him up, and rains down HAMMER ‘N’ ANVIL ELBOWS!
Takagi stands for the ELBOW DROP! Tag to Yota and Yota brings Hashi up. Goto protests as LIJ double whip and DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE! Takagi then SENTONS, and Yota SPLASHES down! Cover, TWO! Goto coaches Hashi but Yota drags Hashi up. Yota CLUBS Hashi but Hashi fires forearms! Yota hits a BODY BLOW in return! Yota whips, runs, but Hashi dropkicks the legs out! The fans fire up while both men are down! Hashi and Yota crawl, Hashi hot tags Goto! Goto CLOBBERS Yota, BLASTS Takagi, then goes back to Yota. Yota kicks and runs but Goto follows to LARIAT! Takagi runs in, but Goto kicks him!
Takagi fights the suplex, suplexes in return, but Goto slips free! Goto waistlocks but Takagi elbows him! LIJ regroups to double whip Goto to a corner. Takagi runs in but Goto dodges! LARIAT for Yota! Goto kicks Takagi, and suplexes him onto Yota! Cover on Yota, TWO! The fans rally and Goto hauls Yota up. Yota fights the fireman’s carry with elbows. Goto ROCKS Yota, Yota ROCKS Goto, repeat! The forearms go back and forth, faster and faster, but Goto gets the edge! Goto roars, runs, but Yota clinches for the BACKBREAKER! FLATLINER! STOMP! Takagi BLASTS Hashi! The fans fire up with LIJ as they regroup.
LIJ whips Goto to the corner again, and Yota ELBOWS! Takagi sends Yota back in to SPLASH! Takagi LARIATS, Yota BOOTS, Takagi BLINDSIDE LARIATS, and then a DOUBLE BACK SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Goto stays in this but Yota brings him back up. Yota has Goto in the drop zone, for the MAROON- NO, Goto avoids the crush! Goto fireman’s carries to USHIGOROSHI! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Goto and Yota crawl, hot tags to Takagi and Hashi! The fans fire up as Hashi and Takagi RAM shoulders! Hashi dodges to RAM Takagi, Takagi RAMS back! They RAM again, and roar!
Hashi ROCKS Takagi, CHOPS him, then turns him for a NECKBREAKER! The fans fire up with Hashi and he aims from a corner. Takagi goes to a corner, Hashi runs in, but Takagi dodges! Takagi runs up, but into a BOOT! Hashi runs up, into the ELBOW! JAB! YUKON feint and DDT! Hashi is down and Takagi says “TOKI GA KITA!” The time has come, and the fans rally with “OI! OI! OI!” Takagi winds up, runs up, but blocks a boot to LARIAT! Takagi keeps moving, but Hashi gets around to waistlock! Takagi switches, Hashi RAMS Takagi to a corner! Goto runs up to LARIAT Takagi! Feed to the mule kick!
Bishamon sets up, GOTO GO TO HUNTER! The fans fire up and Goto calls for it! Hashi gets the legs, but Takgi kicks free! Takagi wrenches, dodges, SLEEPER on Goto! Yota RANAS Hashi! Then Yota runs up on Goto but Goto BOOTS him! Goto elbows Takagi, Hashi SUPERKICKIS Yota! Goto has Yota up, he and Hashi hits G Y R!! Yota flounders but Takgi sends Goto into Hashi! PUMPING- NO, Bishamon dodges the lariats and they trap Takagi at the ropes! BLINDISDE LARIAT to SNAP DRAGON! Takagi is up, DOUBLE LARIATS with Goto! Takagi SWATS a lariat, ELBOWS Hashi, JABS him, then runs! But into Goto’s LARIAT!!
The fans fire up and Bishamon regroups. They whip Takagi into the fireman’s carry! FIERCE FLASH! And now Hashi calls the end! They have Takagi up, SHO- NO, SUPERKICK to Hashi from Yota! SUPERKICK to Goto from Yota! Goto tumbles out, Hashi is in a corner, and Yota runs to SPLASH Hashi! Then Yota hoists Hashi up top, CHOPS him, and climbs! The fans fire up with Yota as he brings Hashi up, for a SUPERPLEX! Takagi SLIDING PUMPING BOMBERS! Takagi starts up another “OI! OI! OI!” and the fans are with him! LIJ drags Hashi up, they BOOSTED WHEELBARROW GERMAN!! Cover, GOTO BREAKS IT!
Yota stomps Goto and CLUBS him! LIJ drags Goto up, but Goto fires forearms on them both! Goto is a fierce warrior to be sure! But he runs into a LARIAT! And GENE TRIGGER! PUMPING BOMBER! The fans fire up as LIJ aims at Hashi! Takagi runs up to LARIAT! Snapmare and Yota aims! Takagi makes sure Hashi is lined up, but Goto anchors Yota! Takagi rushes over but Hashi shoves him into Yota! Roll-up with bridge! TWO!!! Takagi escapes, Hashi ROCKS him! The fans are thunderous as both men wobble. Takagi fires a forearm! Hashi fires back! Takagi fires another! Hashi wobbles, drops to a knee, but he comes back to fire another forearm!
Takagi and Hashi go back and forth, faster and faster! They both wobble again, but then Hashi fires a strike fest! The CHOP tops it off, but Takagi just snarls! Takagi fires boxing elbows! Hashi roars, but Takagi JABS! HEADBUTTS! SUPERKICK from Hashi! DISCUS PUJMPING from Takagi! Cover, TWO!!! The fans fire up and Takagi powers up! Takagi runs, to PUMPING BOMBER!! Takagi pump handles and torture racks, but ITADAKIGARI!! Cover, BISHAMON WINS!!!
Winners: Bishamon, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Takagi & Yota earn 0)
A sudden turnaround, but it can’t be called an upset with how Goto & Hashi have been World Tag League winners and IWGP Heavyweight Tag Team Champions besides! But if this is how hard Takagi & Tsuji fought, yet they still fell short, how much harder must they fight to be on top of the block?
As for Bishamon, Hashi has the mic first. “Last year, Bishamon made history be becoming the first-ever IWGP Tag Team Champions to win this league. We also achieved the first-ever threepeat. This year, we’re looking to go undefeated!” The fans cheer that lofty goal, and even chant for “BI-SHA-MON! BI-SHA-MON!” Hashi says then, in Kumamoto, when they win their FOURTH STRAIGHT tournament, “We’ll show you our happiest Zanmai celebration ever.” The fans are certainly intrigued by that. Hashi says Bishamon’s four-peat will come in the blink of an eye!
With that mic drop, the mission is clear! No need to #GetBackUp when you’re still riding high, but will Goto & Hashi continue to add to their historic achievements? Or will a team come along to ruin it all?
Here are the NEW A Block standings!
Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman: 2-0, 4 points
Bishamon: 2-0, 4 points
Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji: 1-1, 2 points
Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa: 1-1, 2 points
Gabe Kidd & Sanada: 1-1, 2 points
Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma: 1-1, 2 points
Kenta & Chase Owens: 0-2, 0 points
Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi: 0-2, 0 points
My Thoughts:
A great event for WTL A Block, but I hope there won’t be any more delays in the On Demand upload, there’s too much to do on a Friday to wait on this. Anyway, I had a bad feeling Funky Sauce would lose again, but they had a strong showing against Callum & Cobb. Great brawl between Gabe & Sanada with Kenta & Chase. But considering Gabe is building towards that match with Kenny Omega, good win for him and Sanada, and then good promo from Gabe to call Omega out. This all probably takes Gabe & Sanada out of the running for the finals, because they can play up how Gabe is too distracted by wanting after Omega.
Great match from Shota & Honma VS ZSJ & Oiwa, but this match also proved me right from earlier. This was just a formality to make ZSJ VS Shota for the world title official. Shota gets the upset win on ZSJ and now that is Shota’s path to WrestleKingdom. But Bishamon VS LIJ was awesome stuff, and what a great win for Goto & Hashi. Goto & Hashi are definitely set up to make another run at the trophies, but I’m still not sure of their chances of winning. The threepeat was pretty surprising as it was, but a four-peat would be wild.
My Score: 9/10
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Everybody wants Mina, but Mina wants Mariah!
Before they celebrate with champagne on Full Gear, Mariah May & Mina Shirakawa team up for a tag match! Will Rampage truly become “Glampage?”
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Mariah May & Mina Shirakawa VS Harley Cameron & Nyla Rose; Mariah & Mina win.
- Juice Robinson VS The Butcher; Juice wins.
- Six Man Tag: The Conglomeration VS The Dark Order; The Conglomeration wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Mariah May & Mina Shirakawa VS Harley Cameron & Nyla Rose!
While the AEW Women’s World Champion and her best friend will have their Championship Champagne Celebration tomorrow night, tonight is about celebrating a victory together. But will The Glamour & The Fighting Gravure Idol get that win? Or can the wild Aussie and Native Beast put a damper on the fun?
The teams sort out and Mina starts against Nyla. The fans rally, “We Want Mina!” and Nyla says so does she! They step up and Nyla taunts Mina’s height by calling for the knuckle lock. Mina reaches up but Nyla switches hands. And then switches, switches, switches, but Mina almost makes it a dance. The fans cheer as it indeed becomes a dance off between Mina and Nyla. But then Mina kicks low! Mina runs, but Nyla catches her! Nyla pops Mina up and around, but Mina slips free. Mina dodges, and she slides to pose. The fans cheer, Nyla shows she can shimmy, and she SUPERKICKS Mina down!
Nyla scoops Mina to SLAM her! Nyla swaggers, drags Mina up, and then scoops. Harley wants in but Nyla says not now. She is holding a grown human woman! Nyla SLAMS Mina down, runs, but Harley tags in! Nyla asks what is wrong with Harley, they argue, but Harley runs up on Mina. Mina fires hands, then facelocks and SOBATS! Mina runs, but Harley drops under. Mina rolls, then bypasses, runs, and tilt-o-whirls to a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Cover, ONE!! Harley stays in this but Mina stays on her. Mina bumps Harley off buckles, then tags in Mariah. Mariah CHOPS Harley, then puts some stank on the DOUBLE CHOP!
Mariah brings Harley around, scoops, and SPIN-OUT SIDEWALK SLAMS! Cover, TWO! Harley toughs it out but Mariah sucker punches Nyla! The fans boo but Mariah is coy as she tags in Mina. Mariah & Mina double whip Harley, then trip her up, and “Woo~!” DOUBLE SHOTGUN! Mina & Mariah both shake it up, but Nyla joins in. Nyla then drags them up by their hair, for a meeting- NO, Mariah & Mina stop from colliding. They smile, then double kick Nyla. They TOSS Nyla out at the ramp and Harley is upset with Nyla. But then Mariah & Mina run to WRECK their opponents with dropkicks!
Mariah & Mina pose cutely on the apron and blow kisses to each other. Then they fetch Harley into the ring as Rampage goes picture in picture.
Mina stalks Harley, then winds up to KICK her in the back! Harley writhes, Mina pushes her to a cover, TWO! Mina drags Harley up and brings her around to bump off buckles. Tag to Mariah, and Mariah brings Harley out for a HALF HATCH! Cover, TWO! Harley stays in this but Mariah stays on her. Mariah fireman’s carries but Harley fights free. Harley throws Mariah down by her hair! Harley waistlocks, Mariah fights the lift and wrenches out. Harley ducks a kick to pump handle and BACK SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Mariah stays in this but Harley stays on her. Harley drags Mariah up to whip to the corner, then she tags Nyla.
Nyla stomps away on Mariah, then stands her up to CHOP! Nyla stalks Mariah to a corner, Rampage returns to single picture, and Nyla snapmares for a NECK SNAPPER! Cover, TWO! Nyla drags Mariah around, ties up the legs, and clamps on the chinlock! Mariah endures but Nyla brings her up to whip her to ropes. Nyla scoops to SIDEWALK SLAM! Nyla keeps moving, SPLASH DOWN! Cover, TWO! Harley shouts for the tag, Nyla tags her in. Harley RAMS into Mariah again and again, then snapmares. Mariah staggers up, Harley runs and SHINING WIZARDS! Cover, TWO Mariah survives and Harley argues the count.
Harley taunts Mina, drags Mariah up, but Mariah swings. Harley dodges the lariat but Mariah blocks Sole Food, to HEADBUTT! Mariah and Harley both fall back! Both women crawl, the fans rally up, but Harley anchors Mariah’s legs! Mariah KICKS Harley away, hot tag to Mina! Mina rallies on Harley, whips, but Harley reverses. Mina comes back to NECKBREAKER DROP! The fans fire up with Mina and she runs corner to corner, but Harley dodges! But then Mina dodges! Mina ROCKS Harley, goes up and FLYING CHUCKS! Harley falls, Mina covers, but Nyla stomps it apart! Nyla helps Harley up and they double whip Mina.
Mina reverses to send Harley away. Mina mule kicks Nyla, ELBOWS Harley, victory rolls Nyla and has the legs! Harley staggers but runs up, only for Mina to catch her! Mina spins Harley, DDT SNAP LOCK COMBO! The fans fire up with Mina and she hot tags Mariah! Nyla hobbles up, into Mariah’s SHOTGUN! But Harley rolls Mariah! TWO!! Mariah is up and she KNEES Harley down! Harley staggers to a corner but Mariah hoists her up! Electric Chair Lift, and Mina tags in! Mina climbs, for a BULLDOG DOOMSDAY!! Cover, Mariah & Mina win!
Winners: Mariah May & Mina Shirakawa, by pinfall
The AEW Women’s World Champion and the Rev-Pro Undisputed British Women’s Champion are victorious together, just like they wanted! Will they toast this victory and all others tomorrow night? Or will someone look to ruin their Full Gear fun?
Rampage returns and…
Lexy Nair welcomes us back, while also welcoming us to the official Full Gear Zero Hour weigh-in. Please welcome first, QT Marshall! The fans boo as QT makes his return to AEW TV, and he shows off the “DOOM” logo on his track jacket. QT steps into the ring and now Lexy welcomes out Big Justice and Big Boom AJ! The fans cheer as the Costco Guys are here, giving out high-fives and fist bumps! QT is already annoyed but Lexy says before we get started, do either of them have something to say? QT steps up to say yes, he does! Enough with the “Boom,” first off! Tomorrow night, QT brings the doom!
QT told AJ 20 years ago that he didn’t have it. 20 years later, AJ still doesn’t have it! The fans boo but AJ just shrugs that off. AJ tells QT that QT’s been waiting those 20 years to get AJ in the ring. But AJ’s been waiting ever since QT tossed those double chunk chocolate cookies! The fans cheer that! But AJ says hold on, hold on. He’s got a special surprise for us. He wants someone real special to be at Full Gear to ring the bell when AJ rings QT’s bell and he Power-Booms QT through this ring. QT asks who. AJ says there’s only one guy that can be. They scratch their chins, and yes, it’ll be THE RIZZLER!!
QT is seething but the fans love it! QT gets to business by taking off the jacket and the sweatpants. QT steps on the scale, flexes, and we get the numbers on the tron: 229 pounds flat for QT! QT is all fired up, he’s bringing that heavyweight build. The fans fire up for AJ, “Bring the Boom! Bring the Boom!” Wait, what? 550?! AJ’s big but not THAT big. QT says this must be why he’s Big Boom AJ. Maybe he should laugh off the double chunk chocolate cookies. Big Justice steps up! And he says we all know QT rigged the scale! Right? Right? But see, that won’t matter when his dad brings that BOOM on Saturday night! Is QT ready?
QT steps up but AJ gets in QT’s way. QT takes a swing! AJ ROCKS QT first! AJ makes sure Big Justice is okay, but then QT hits the DIAMOND CUTTER! The fans boo but QT says that’s gonna be the DOOM! Will QT not care who or what Big Boom AJ brings to Full Gear? Or will he slammed on the mat for The Rizzler?
AEW takes a closer look at the AEW World Tag Team Championship Fatal 4 Way.
Malakai Black says, “Eight men, four destinies intertwined.” Anthony Bowens recaps: The Acclaimed, Kings of the Black Throne, Outrunners, and Private Party, fighting for the titles. Marq Quen says he and Zay worked SO damn hard for these titles. But The Outrunners are hard as a rock! Malakai says The House has a “trigger full of promises to deliver.” Bowens says they have everyone’s number, but The Outrunners feel they have nothing to lose! Malakai & Brody say come one, come all, for all shall perish! Zay promises he & Quen will do whatever it takes to leave Full Gear still your AEW World Tag Team Champions, and that’s a flex.
Juice Robinson VS The Butcher!
While everyone else, such as the Bang Bang Gang’s fearless leader, Jay White, gears up for Full Gear, Rock Hard Robinson is just looking to get a win. Butcher almost shoves him off the apron, will Butcher cause this Collision Cowboy to go off the rails? Or will it be Guns Up for the Reading, Pennsylvania Gold Members?
The bell rings and Juice ties up with Butcher. They’re in a deadlock and quickly go to the mat. They also quickly get back up, and Juice powers Butcher to a corner. The ref counts, they go along ropes, in a corner, then along more ropes. Butcher has Juice on the ropes but he lets off with a scuffing forearm. Juice has wild eyes to go with his wild hair, and he shoots in to headlock. Butcher powers up and out, they RAM shoulders, and Butcher doesn’t budge. Butcher eggs Juice on, but Juice grins. Juice stomps Butcher’s foot! Juice headlocks but Butcher fires body shots. Butcher powers up and out but Juice RAMS him!
Butcher rebounds to CLOBBER Juice! Things keep moving, Juice drops then hurdles, then he goes to hip toss. Butcher blocks to body shot and LARIAT! The fans fire up while Butcher stalks Juice to a corner. Butcher stands Juice up to CHOP! The fans “WOO~” and then Butcher climbs up. Butcher says count along, but then Juice sips out before he even starts! Juice trips Butcher up, then climbs, and now fans get to count! Juice rains down fists all the way to nine, then winds up, to BITE Butcher for ten! But then Butcher DUMPS Juice to the floor! Butcher storms out after Juice to RAILING BACK SUPLEX!
Juice writhes more but Butcher drags him back up. Butcher throws Juice into the apron while Rampage goes picture in picture.
Butcher LARIATS Juice against the apron, pushes him into the ring, then stalks him to another corner. Butcher runs up to LARIAT! Juice staggers and Butcher scoops him for a BACKBREAKER! Juice writhes, Butcher runs, and he drops a leg, brother! Cover, TWO! Juice stays in this but Butcher drags him up. Butcher ROCKS Juice in the back! Butcher then stands Juice up, shoves him to ropes, and ROCKS him again! Juice drops to his knees but Butcher drags him around into a chinlock. Juice endures, reaches out, ROPEBREAK! Butcher lets go to stomp away on Juice! Butcher then clamps onto Juice with a dragon sleeper!
Juice endures as Butcher bends him. Juice fights up, powers up, and ROCKS Butcher! And ROCKS him! And hits a JAWBREAKER! Juice whips, Butcher reverses and ELBOWS him down! Butcher stalks Juice to ropes, stands on Juice’s face, but the ref counts. Butcher steps away, then drags Juice up. Butcher ROCKS Juice, but Juice shakes his head. Butcher ROCKS Juice in the back again, and Juice drops to his knees as Rampage goes to break.
Rampage returns as Butcher runs up, only for Juice to BOOT him! Juice then dodges Butcher, atomic drops and roars! Juice HEADBUTTS Butcher to the corner, but Butcher snarls! Butcher runs up, into a LEG LARIAT! Juice grits his teeth and the fans fire up. Juice pumps up, takes aim, and he JABS! JABS! JABS! Juice roars, and Butcher falls for the left hand feint! DDT! Juice adds a SENTON, then covers, TWO! Butcher is tough but Juice grins. The fans rally up and Juice watches Butcher go to a corner. Juice runs up to LARIAT! Juice calls his shot, goes corner to corner, and back again, but Butcher throws him back! LARIAT!! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up but Butcher is furious! Butcher drags Juice up, reels him in, and hits a BIG back suplex, only for Juice to land out! Roll up, with a bridge! TWO, and Juice hurries away. Butcher rises, runs up, but Juice drop toeholds him into buckles! Juice gets moving, CANNONBALL! The fans fire up with Juice and Juice pumps up. Butcher rises, into the JAB! JAB! JAB! LEFT HAND O’- NO, Butcher slips around, half nelson, BACKBREAKER! And then JACKHAMMER! Cover, TWO!! Juice survives and Butcher is furious! Butcher drags Juice up, calls his shot, and suplexes, but Juice fights that off!
Juice slips free to LEFT HAND O’ GOD! Juice powers up, another LEFT HAND O’ GOD!! The fans fire up again as Juice brings Butcher up. JUICE IS LOOSE!! Cover, Juice wins!
Winner: Juice Robinson, by pinfall
And that’s one for Bullet Club Gold! Will Jay White look to do just as much damage to Hangman Page? Or will the Blackhat Cowboy still be number one with a bullet?
PROGRAMMING NOTE for next week!
There will be no Friday Night Rampage next week, because it will be a BACK-TO-BACK Rampage & Collision Saturday night! Make sure your DVR is ready for three hours of AEW action!
Backstage interview with Thunder Rosa.
Lexy is with La Mera Mera and brings up how next week will be an ALL LUCHA Rampage. That must be exciting. Rosa is beyond excitement! It is about time they get some lucha libre to spice up Rampage. Atlantis Jr, Hechicero, and the return of Mystico! C’mon, now! Well what about Rosa? Yes, what about Rosa? Rosa hasn’t had a true lucha match in awhile, but why not? An open challenge for any luchadora or female wrestler that wants after La Mera Mera! In steps Harley Cameron, wearing a Hologram mask, and putting on a robot voice. “Greetings. I am famed luchadora, Harley-gram, the female counterpart to Hologram.”
Rosa is trying not to laugh as “Harley-gram” officially accepts the open challenge. Rosa tells Harley-gram that she looks familiar. Like a certain someone she beat two weeks ago. Does not compute with Harley-gram. Okay, fine. Compute this: Next week, Rosa will yank her cord and shut her down! OH SHUT UP! What? Uh… Danger! Danger, Will Robinson! Danger! “Harley-gram” runs off and Rosa asks if this is really happening. Rosa sighs, but will she just have to reboot Harley back to factory settings?
Ricochet speaks.
“I have had my eyes on the International title since I debuted in AEW. And Takeshita has cost me my chance at becoming International Champion on more than one occasion. I was the last person to pin the International Champion, and I plan on doing it one more time, at Full Gear. At Full Gear, Takeshita finds out what the world already knows: That Ricochet is not from here. Ricochet is outta this world!” The King of Flight is determined to dethrone The Alpha. Will Ricochet become The One & Only International Champion?
BREAKING NEWS for the Full Gear Zero Hour!
Anna Jay lost last week in her last chance championship match, but she also rejected the offer of The Vendetta. Now Deonna Purrazzo is looking to teach Anna why that was a mistake. Will The Virtuosa make sure Anna’s never The Star of the Show? Or will she learn why Anna’s still The Queenslayer? Then, we see Dante Martin, The Beast Mortos, Komander and Buddy Matthews compete in what will surely be a fast and furious Fatal 4 Way! Who wins some big momentum, and possibly a spot in the Continental Classic?
Six Man Tag: The Conglomeration VS The Dark Order!
While Tomohiro Ishii is aiming for the ROH World Championship next Wednesday on Thanksgiving Eve, he, Mark Briscoe & Rocky Romero don’t mind building up momentum in the Trios Division. Will the Stone Pitbull, Sussex County Chicken & Azucar be rolling towards titles? Or can Evil Uno, Alex Reynolds & John Silver remind everyone that The Dark Order is good enough?
The trios sort out and Mark starts against Silver. The two shake hands, and the fans cheer on “Johnny Hungy!” Silver and Mark tie up, go around, and Silver headlocks. Mark powers up and out, but Silver runs him over! Silver flexes, runs, but Mark drops down to then arm-drag! Silver arm-drags back! Mark sweeps to cover, ONE! Silver sweeps to cover, ONE! Both men stand and the fans fire up. Silver and Mark reset, tie up, and Mark headlocks. Silver powers up and out, hurdles, but then Mark hits the crane stance! Silver stays back, and then shows off his Dark Order Karate! The fans fire up and the two circle again.
Mark shows off more of his Redneck Kung-Fu, but then Uno CLOBBERS him! Even Silver’s disappointed but Uno backs off. Silver brings Mark up, Uno tags in, and then he tags Reynolds. Uno CLAWS Mark’s back. then Dark Order DOUBLE LARIAT SANDWICHES! Uno hits a JAWBREAKER, Reynolds adds a BACKBREAKER, and then Uno hits the DDT! Reynolds covers, TWO! Reynolds drags Mark back, tags Uno, and they stomp Mark down. Uno puts Mark in a corner, whips him corner to corner, but Mark goes up to FLYING FOREARM! Mark powers Uno to the Conglomeration corner then tags in Ishii.
Ishii CHOPS Uno, and CHPOS, and CHOSP! Uno feels those even through his business shirt! Tag to Rocky but Uno hits low. Uno whips, Rocky reverses and UPPERCUTS! Rocky winds up as Uno goes to a corner, and he runs in to LARIAT! That’s one-ever! Then two-ever! Then three-ever! Rocky gives some Latino Heat, but Reynolds runs up! Rocky gives Reynolds four-ever! More Latino Heat and the fans fire up! Uno runs up, to catch Rocky for SOMETHING EVIL! Rocky flops out of the ring and Uno flexes, but Rampage goes picture in picture.
The ring count starts but Reynolds throws Rocky in. Reynolds drops an elbow, then stands on Rocky’s face. Reynolds scuffs Rocky with his sole, then bumps Rocky off buckles. Uno traps Rocky while Silver tags in. The Dark Order mugs Rocky, then Silver scoops and SLASMS! “I’m freakin’ jacked, baby!” Silver drags Rocky up, ROCKS him with forearms, then puts him in a corner. Silver ROCKS Rocky again, then puts him in the Dark Order corner for a LARIAT! Silver tags Uno then flexes on The Conglomeration. Uno taunts Ishii, then brings Rocky up. Rocky fires forearms! Rocky backs Uno down, then runs, but into a BOOT!
Uno hauls Rocky up to hit a BACKBREAKER! Cover, ONE!! Uno is upset that he only got one, but the fans rally for Rocky. Uno stomps Rocky’s hand! Rocky goes to a corner and Uno CHOPS him down! Uno does Scott Hall fingers to taunt Rocky, then he bumps Rocky off Silver’s boots! Reynolds tags in, pushes Rocky down, and then he stands on Rocky before an IMPLODER SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Rocky flounders but Reynolds stalks him. Reynolds taunts Rocky, then brings him up. Rocky fires forearms! And forearms! And then he powers Reynolds back! Reynolds digs his heels in to keep Rocky from his corner!
Reynolds knees Rocky, whips him, but Rocky sunset flips! TWO! Reynolds CLOBBERS Rocky! Cover, TWO! Reynolds is frustrated but he tags in Uno. Uno rolls up his sleeves while soaking up the heat from Reading. Uno clamps onto Rocky with a chinlock and he grinds Rocky down. Rocky endures and fights around while the fans rally up. Rocky fires body shots as Rampage returns to single picture, but Uno clamps on tighter! Rocky is fading! Uno sits Rocky down, then BLASTS Ishii! The ref keeps Mark from getting at Uno, and Uno stomps Rocky. Uno again taunts Mark, then runs up, but into a BOOT!
Rocky fires off hands on Reynolds & Silver! Rocky rolls past Uno to hot tag Mark! The fans fire up as Mark dodges Uno to then fire hands on him and Reynolds! Mark CHOPS and ROCKS and repeat! Mark fires a flurry and ROCKS Uno! Reynolds swings into a wrench, KICK, and then a CHOP for Silver before the ROLLING ELBOW on Reynolds! Uno runs up but Mark just keeps throwing shots! Forearms and CHOPS on Uno and Silver! Silver waistlocks but Mark BOOTS Uno away! Mark breaks free to PELE Silver! Uno runs up, into an EXPLODER! The fans fire up and Mark covers, TWO! Mark stays fired up and the fans are with him!
Mark fires hands on Uno, then fireman’s carries. Uno fights free and throws Mark into ropes! Reynolds BOOTS Mark, Uno reels Mark in! Silver SUPERKICKS before the PILEDRIVER! Cover, TWO!! Mark survives and The Dark Order can’t believe it! Uno tags Silver, Silver tags Reynolds, and they haul Mark up. PENDULUM- NO, Mark fights free to BOOT Silver! Mark dodges Uno & Reynolds, hot tag to Ishii! Ishii CLOBBERS Reynolds and RAMS Uno, but Uno stays up! Uno dodges Ishii’s haymaker to waistlock, but Ishii ducks as Reynolds runs up! Reynolds ROCKS Uno by accident! Ishii CLOBBERS Uno! And GERMAN SUPLEXES Reynolds!
The fans fire up with Ishii as he brings Reynolds up. Ishii suplexes, but Silver makes the save! Silver KICKS Ishii, but Ishii CHOPS Silver! KICK! CHOP! Repeat! The fans fire up and Ishii CHOPS, CHOPS and CHOPS! Ishii runs, breaks through the kick, but not the SUPERKICK! Silver GERMAN SUPLEXES! But Ishii’s right back up! LARIAT for Silver! Reynolds BOOTS Ishii down! Mark LARIATS Reynolds up and out! Rocky hurries to fetch a chair for Mark! Mark sets that up and the fans cheer him on! Mark builds speed , but Reynolds trips him up! Rocky FLYING RANAS Reynolds! Uno BOOTS Rocky!
Uno helps Reynolds up, but Mark FLIES! The fans fire up with Mark and he high-fives the front row. Mark goes back for Reynolds, puts him in, and Ishii SLIDING LARIATS! Ishii roars and he hauls Reynolds up! Suplex for the BRAINBUSTER!! Cover, Conglomeration wins!
Winners: The Conglomeration, by pinfall
A great battle from these factions, but it is Strong Style that wins out! Will this happen again when Ishii goes 1v1 with The Learning Tree? Or will Chris Jericho make sure the Age of Nueve lasts forever and ever?
My Thoughts:
A great Rampage here for the go-home to Full Gear, but it was definitely just a go-home. They’re even ending with the November Rain music video from last Saturday as I type this. Good promo from Ricochet to hype up his match with Takeshita, but that’s still a toss-up to me. A part of me does want Ricochet to have the International Champion so Takeshita can enter the Continental Classic and go after Okada like he was supposed to do just a month ago. It really depends on what the Don Callis Family story is going to be with Ospreay and Fletcher, as The Don Callis Family isn’t losing everything at Full Gear.
Great opening tag of Mariah & Mina VS Nyla & Harley, though I really thought that was going to be the main event. But at the same time, of course Mariah & Mina won. No tease for anything at Full Gear so maybe they’ll wait to surprise us with Toni Storm or something tomorrow. Harley becoming “Harley-gram” just to get a rematch with Rosa was hilarious stuff, as does that “All Lucha Rampage” episode they’re hyping up. But oh look, next week is back-to-back Rampage and Collision on a Saturday just to try and undercut Survivor Series. It won’t matter, I’m still watching WarGames and leaving AEW for after, but it’s nice of them to do everything on one night.
Very good filler match of Juice VS Butcher, that was a strong return to singles action for Juice. Very nice Zero Hour matches but I kinda wish they’d given us a segment on TV to set up Deonna VS Anna rather than just announcing it. Maybe there was something social media had but I’m still not someone who follows all the socials. And that Fatal 4 Way is awesome, can’t wait to see who comes out of that a winner. Good promo overall from Big Boom AJ and QT Marshall, but I’m not sure it needed to be a weigh-in. A press conference style segment would’ve been fine, or even a contract signing, but I guess they just wanted to set up QT’s “lay off the cookies” joke. QT stands tall with his cutter taking down AJ, so you can bet AJ dooms QT in the Zero Hour.
Also great Six Man Tag main event, though I don’t think I’ve ever seen a main event without entrances. Great win for Conglomeration, though, but yeah, Ishii sure ain’t winning the ROH World Championship.
My Score: 8.8/10
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