Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (4/30/18)
In the aftermath of the Greatest Royal Rumble, it is The Monster Among Men who stands tall! What new heights will this achievement bring Braun Strowman? Plus, the fallout of the controversial ending to the Universal Championship Steel Cage match, and the WONDERFUL new Raw Tag Team Champions, Bray Wyatt & WOKEN Hardy!
All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Bobby Roode VS Elias; no contest.
- The Authors of Pain VS Jean Paul & Francois; AoP win.
- Sasha Banks VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad; Ruby wins.
- Six Man Tag: Roman Reigns, Bobby Lashley & Braun Strowman VS Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn & Jinder Mahal w/ Sunil Singh; win.
- Baron Corbin VS No Way Jose; Jose wins.
- Mickie James w/ Alexa Bliss VS Natalya w/ Ronda Rousey; Natalya wins.
- WWE Intercontinental Championship: Seth Rollins VS Finn Balor; Rollins wins, retains, and will defend the title against The Miz at Backlash.
PLAY BY PLAY
Raw has a highlight reel of the Greatest Royal Rumble event!
Both Raw and SmackDown were represented in star-studded matches, seven of which were for championships. The first-ever 50-man Royal Rumble naturally had star after star and some amazing surprises. Now we move on towards Backlash!
Roman Reigns is in Montreal!
Welcome to Montreal, Quebec, ??, @WWERomanReigns…and welcome all of YOU to Monday Night #RAW! pic.twitter.com/W2sZpt2sm7
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The Big Dog did not defeat The Beast inside a Steel Cage match for the Universal Championship, but there is some controversy behind that. Roman would have Brock Lesnar on the ropes and Spear him through the cage! But Lesnar retained on a referee decision that because Lesnar landed first, he was the winner. The controversy is that Roman’s feet touched first. It was an incorrect decision, but it was the decision that was made. Raw General Manager Kurt Angle agreed it was wrong, but agreed that it was a split-second situation. Therefore, Lesnar remains the WWE Universal Champion.
Roman hears the boos and jeers, then speaks. “I’m not gonna make any excuses, because there’s no need to.” Everyone’s seen the footage and the Tweets, Roman is the real Universal Champion. Fans don’t seem to agree, as they chant “Roman Sucks!” But Roman feels he should be the champion, even though he isn’t yet. Fans may doubt him, but Roman keeps his word: “I beat Brock Lesnar in that Steel Cage.” That is why he’ll never lose faith in himself. He’d say that to Lesnar personally, but Lesnar isn’t here. So Roman turns his attention to his opponent at Backlash. Speaking of, Samoa Joe speaks via Titantron!
"This Sunday #WWEBacklash, I put your downward-spiraling career to SLEEP!" – @SamoaJoe delivers a message to @WWERomanReigns! #RAW pic.twitter.com/PLa1eEGRLg
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
The Samoan Destroyer, now of SmackDown, says no one had faith in Roman to begin with! Joe knew Roman would lose and he did. So now this Sunday, Joe will put Roman to sleep! Roman has nothing to say to Joe, but now Jinder Mahal appears to say something to Roman!
It seems @SamoaJoe isn't the only one who has a beef with @WWERomanReigns tonight…#RAW @JinderMahal pic.twitter.com/DaqkD0skYM
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The Modern Day Maharaja can’t stand it when someone makes excuses for their failures. Mahal always has legitimate reasons, not that he’s complaining. Roman lost fair and square to Lesnar, he will lose fair and square to Samoa Joe, and tonight, Roman will lose to Mahal! Mahal will flourish on Raw and eventually be Universal Champion! Tonight starts that when he proves why the Maharaja is better than The Big Dog! But wait, Sami Zayn is here! Fans explode for their hometown hero!
Take a bow, @SamiZayn…
WELCOME HOME! #RAWMontreal #RAW #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/uSDOhizppq
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Sami is so flattered by Montreal’s response. He speaks to them in French while making his way down the ramp. Sami then speaks in English to Mahal and Roman. Those two are whining about losing at The Greatest Royal Rumble, but Sami couldn’t even go because of an injury Bobby Lashley gave him on last week’s Raw. It was a serious case of vertigo, but he’s over it now. In fact, Sami feels so good, he’ll make things right here in his hometown and take on Roman Reigns! Fans love that idea! But now, Kevin Owens appears! And fans explode for their other hometown hero!
Speaking of "WELCOME HOME"…
Here comes @FightOwensFight! #RAW #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/4MzUwxGinU
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The Prizefighter also speaks French on his way down to the ring, and fans reply “Oui! Oui!” Kevin says Sami, with all due respect, that while Sami can beat Roman, Kevin wants to have a match with Roman. But wait, three guys want to beat up Roman Reigns… Idea! It’ll be a coin flip. No wait coins have two sides. Then a popularity contest! Roman VS Sami? Good reaction. Roman VS Mahal? Bad reaction. Then how about Roman VS Kevin?!
Does the @WWEUniverse in Montreal want to see @FightOwensFight take on @WWERomanReigns TONIGHT?#OuiOuiOuiOui #RAW #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/riPWfDFx8U
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Best reaction! “Sorry, boys.” Roman uppercuts Kevin and now it’s a brawl! Roman is alone in a 4v1 beat down! Bobby Lashley rushes the ring, and fights off Mahal and Sami. He is also outnumbered, though, but here comes BRAUN!!
EQUALIZER SPOTTED!@BraunStrowman is on his way to aid @fightbobby & @WWERomanReigns in the FIGHT against @JinderMahal @SamiZayn & @FightOwensFight…and Sunil @SinghBrosWWE! #RAW pic.twitter.com/4zE9WR6kqt
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The Monster Among Men hits the ring and throws down the hometown “heroes”. He also clubs down Mahal, and Lashley helps fight off some. Strowman explodes out and Roman recovers, they and Lashley clear the ring. But Sunil Singh is last, for Strowman to throw at the others! Strowman, Lashley and Roman stand tall to start Montreal Raw. Will there be a match or two coming out of this for later tonight?
A scene of destruction…#RAW #WWEBacklash pic.twitter.com/cOsuYppOMU
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”
One question for everybody in Montreal…
WHO WANTS TO WALK WITH @IAmEliasWWE?! #RAW pic.twitter.com/NYHpAxT3wf
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The Drifter is in Montreal, “consider yourselves blessed.” He has one question: “Who Wants to Walk with Elias?!” Montreal does. The world already knows, WWE means “Walk With Elias!” Who here saw the Greatest Royal Rumble. All the favorites were there, from New Day to Randy Orton to Kurt Angle. Elias eliminated them all. He’s reaching a new level of fame no one can comprehend. Certainly not Bobby Roode. Elias has a song so he asks the fans silence phones, hold applause–which fans don’t–and shut mouths! He plays, fans clap along. Roode thinks he’s Glorious, but he’s not. It’s gonna take a lot to impress the best thing going on Monday Night Raw. Roode’s as pathetic as the people of Montreal. But then Roode makes his entrance!
Bobby Roode VS Elias!
While Elias won last week, that was just one match. Can the GLORIOUS One even the score at one apiece?
#RAW. JUST. GOT. GLORIOUS!@REALBobbyRoode has heard enough from @IAmEliasWWE… pic.twitter.com/sALlpZvjcQ
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Raw returns to this match in progress as Elias has Roode in a headlock. Roode reverses out to a wrench and then hammerlock to headlock. Elias powers Roode to the corner and hits him with stiff forearms. Roode manage to block and counter with chops, then whips Elias corner to corner. Elias reverses but Roode fires out with a clothesline! Roode gives Elias an atomic drop and dropkick, “That’s why I’m Glorious!” Roode puts Elias in a corner and chops him more. Another corner to corner whip reversed but Roode boots Elias away to hit the GLORIOUS Blockbuster! Cover, TWO, and Elias slips out of the ring. Roode goes over and gives Elias more chops. Elias chops back but Roode knees low.
Roode puts Elias back in the ring, but Elias goes to leave again. Roode walks over but Elias gives him a hotshot! Elias runs Roode over with a clothesline, then stomps on him. Elias puts Roode in a chinlock, and fans rally for Roode while we go picture in picture. Roode stands up but Elias wrangles him back down to the mat. Elias squeezes while Roode feeds of the fans’ energy again. Roode stands up and fights back but Elias still brings him down to the mat. Roode keeps fighting, using elbows to break free. He throws haymakers and chops to back Elias, then whips. Elias kicks Roode away, then stomps on him more. Elias scoops and tosses Roode!
He's much more than just the songbird of his generation.#RAW @IAmEliasWWE pic.twitter.com/5ImkV1dTvq
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Roode gets to a corner, but Elias goes over to him. Roode kicks but Elias chops. Elias whips but Roode reverses. Elias goes up and over, Roode catches him, but Elias still kicks him away. Cover, TWO. The Drifter is in control while we go to break.
Raw returns again, and Elias wrangles Roode down with another chinlock. Roode stands up and runs to a corner, driving Elias’ face into buckles. Elias holds on, so Roode does it again. Elias still holds on, so Roode backs him into a corner. Roode is free again, but runs into Elias’ elbow. Elias stalks Roode into a corner and chops him. He whips Roode corner to corner but Roode reverses. Roode sees the kick coming this time, and now he rallies with clotheslines. He hits one in the corner but Elias denies the neckbreaker. Roode boots Elias away, hopes up but Elias ducks under. Elias runs into the Glorious SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Roode keeps his focus and goes to a corner.
Fans fire up as he climbs, but Elias is there to stop him with a chop. Elias climbs up now, but Roode fights back. Roode sends Elias down with haymakers and a headbutt, then hits the flying clothesline! Roode winds it up… GLORIOUS Pose! He kicks, but Elias pushes him away. Elias gets to the ropes then elbows Roode again, roll up, but Roode rolls it back! TWO! Elias kicks and throws Roode to the apron, but Roode shoulders back in. Roode gets rocked by Elias’ right hand, then Elias throws him into the turnbuckle’s crossbar throat first!
Clearly, @IAmEliasWWE doesn't want @REALBobbyRoode to be able to sing any time soon… #RAW pic.twitter.com/HfAYTteTBi
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Roode goes down, gasping for air. The referee checks on Roode, he calls for medical help. Roode says he can’t breathe, but Elias doesn’t care. Elias slips out of the ring to fetch a mic: “Ladies and gentlemen, your winner, Elias!” Well, no, the referee has said no such thing. But with Roode gasping for air, this match will not finish.
No Contest
Can the Glorious One recover from such a devastating blow? Will Elias move on and up to bigger and better things?
It seems @IAmEliasWWE just declared himself the winner over @REALBobbyRoode as officials tend to @REALBobbyRoode… #RAW pic.twitter.com/93DHj2Fj2T
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
The Authors of Pain VS Jean Paul & Francois!
?☠️?☠️?☠️?☠️?☠️#AOP has arrived. #RAW @Akam_WWE @Rezar_WWE pic.twitter.com/TDc466sNRC
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Akam & Rezar have struck out on their own, leaving Paul Ellering home in NXT. Even so, they still destroy opponents as always. Yet, this pair of local Montreal wrestlers think they can win. They are proud French Canadians who never back down from a challenge. Montreal is excited for their local boys, but will it all come to a tragic end?
Good luck to Quebec's own, Jean-Paul & Francois! #RAW pic.twitter.com/wgSZ3IFPwW
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
The bell rings and Rezar starts against Francois, and immediately boots him down! Rezar throws Francois to Jean Paul, who tags in. Jean Paul dodges Rezar but that jab, it does nothing! But Rezar’s lariat, it hurts Jean Paul. Rezar tags in Akam, then fetches Francois, for the Super Collider! But it doesn’t end there. Rezar tags back in, and they take Jean Paul for the Last Chapter! Cover, AoP win!
Winners: The Authors of Pain (Akam & Rezar), Rezar pinning
It doesn’t matter if you have hometown advantage, the story is the same: AoP dominates. Now Akam & Rezar speak. “The Book of Pain remains open!” And there will be a chapter for every single team on Monday Night Raw. These two are #CenteredOnDestruction, who will be destroyed in the next chapter?
In case there was any doubt, The #AuthorsOfPain are CENTERED ON DESTRUCTION. #RAW pic.twitter.com/DO4mUFwvt4
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Seth Rollins is in Montreal!
Give it up for YOUR #ICChampion @WWERollins!
?????????????? #RAW pic.twitter.com/CNnLoMHSEQ
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
And he’s still the WWE Intercontinental Champion, even after a grueling Fatal 4 Way Ladder Match during the Greatest Royal Rumble event. However, this Sunday at Backlash, The Miz still has his rematch clause to use, and he looks to make history should he take that title back. But Rollins loves how wild Montreal is tonight! And the last month of his career has been wild. Wrestlemania saw Rollins become the Intercontinental Champion for the first time, in a triple threat. Saudi Arabia saw him retain the title in a fatal 4. And now he’s here live with “you maniacs” in Montreal! Fans chant “Burn It Down!” for the Architect, then shift to singing “Rollins~ Rollins Rollins Rollins~! Rollins~, Rollins~!” Then they move to “You Deserve It!” And Rollins soaks it all in.
Rollins does speak again, thanking them in French. The fans make it all worth it, he wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. But with all that time to reflect on the trip back from Arabia, Rollins thought on what kind of champion he wants to be, and not want to be. Rollins does NOT want to be Lesnar. Because Lesnar isn’t the real champion, we all saw Roman touch his feet first. Rollins doesn’t want to be a part-timer who fights when the price is right. He wants to be a fighting champion. Rollins wants to be out here every Monday! Before Rollins can continue, Finn Balor appears!
"You're out here talking about being a fighting champion. Well, how about you show everyone that you're a fighting champion by putting that title on the line versus me RIGHT HERE TONIGHT?!" – @FinnBalor to @WWERollins #RAW pic.twitter.com/Jh40jFn3YH
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Finn uses French to introduce himself. And Seth’s right, that flight was a long one. Finn also reflected on that Ladder Match, and just how close he was to being Intercontinental Champion. But he will congratulate Rollins on winning, by mere inches. They themselves had have four singles matches, and they’re 2-2. And Rollins said he wants to be a fighting champion? Then show us by putting the title up on the line, right here in Montreal! Fans say “Oui! Oui!” to that. Rollins says The Miz waits at Backlash, but… What does Montreal want? Rollins VS Balor for the IC Title tonight?! “OUI! OUI!” Then it’s happening! But wait, The Miz is here? He’s on SmackDown now, so it’s just The Miztourage instead.
It seems The #Miztourage might have some unfinished business with @WWERollins and @FinnBalor…#RAW @RealCurtisAxel @TheBoDallas pic.twitter.com/l9KTvkyP8K
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Curt Axel says not to care about what fans want. They need to worry about what’s best for themselves. Don’t fight each other, fight together! All of them should fight together, in fact. Bo and Axel join Rollins and Finn in the ring. They’re going to have a group conversation! They’ve made shirts with all four of them on it? Okay, it’s a bit sloppy, and it’s obvious what they’re thinking. Forget Balor Club, forget Shield, think about this: all four of them… as the NEW Four Horsemen!
.@WWEShop #RAW pic.twitter.com/vXwnzGhYVi
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Yeah? Yeah? Umm… Finn and Rollins huddle up, but they’re thinking what the fans are thinking. “That’s gonna be a hard ‘no’, guys.” Bo wants Axel to keep his chin up. They don’t need Finn and Rollins, it’s their loss. But then they swing on Finn and Rollins! Only to get a SUPERKICK, and a Slingblade! Rollins clotheslines Axel out, but Finn gets him with the elbow drop DDT!
A little message from @FinnBalor to the #ICChampion @WWERollins… #RAW pic.twitter.com/19DsTqwuxP
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
And he has a grin on his face the entire time. Rollins agreed to their match and shook his hand, but Finn wants Rollins to remember to keep his eyes on the prize. Will the Extraordinary Man add the Intercontinental Championship to Balor Club? Or will Rollins #BurnItDown to continue on to Backlash?
Sasha Banks VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad!
Let's start a riott.#RAW @RubyRiottWWE @YaOnlyLivvOnce @sarahloganwwe pic.twitter.com/8r3ozW751h
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Ruby and her Squad attacked both The Legit Boss and the Huggable Bayley the moment they came over to Raw during the Superstar Shake-Up. Now Sasha wants 1v1 revenge, but how will that go when Ruby always has Liv and Sarah by her side?
Quick interview with Sasha Banks.
Did Sasha at least attempt to patch things up with Bayley? No, because she hasn’t even heard a single word from her. The Squad is taking over and Bayley seems okay with that. Sasha isn’t. This Women’s Division runs on Boss Time, so if Ruby wants a fight, bank on it that Sasha will give it.
BOSS. TIME. ?#RAW @SashaBanksWWE pic.twitter.com/IU3EyQqDkz
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The bell rings and Sasha circles with Ruby. They tie up, spin around, and Ruby puts Sasha in a corner. Ruby breaks and backs off. She and Sasha circle again, Sasha gets the arm wrench and wrist control. Ruby throws Sasha down by her hair, but Sasha stands back up to arm-drag Ruby away. Sasha dares Ruby to come back for more, and she goes to hip toss. Ruby reverses but Sasha reverses back. Sasha whips but Ruby rolls her up, TWO, so Ruby runs her over with a shoulder. Ruby taunts Sasha and she runs the ropes, but Sasha gets her with a stiff overhand chop! Sasha gets wrist control back and goes acrobatic to arm-drag Ruby down! They keep moving, another arm-drag and Sasha has Ruby in an armlock.
Ruby endures while Bayley watches backstage. Fans rally and Ruby stands up to pull Sasha’s hair. The referee counts and Ruby lets go, but then kicks Sasha right in the face. The Squad enjoy what their leader is doing as she stomps a mudhole into Sasha. Ruby bumps Sasha off buckles, then rams in her shoulder. Ruby backs off but comes back with a forearm, then stalks Sasha at the ropes. She gives Sasha forearms then whips but Sasha dodges to Thesz Press and throw hands! Sasha puts Ruby in a corner again, then climbs up to grind her foot into Ruby’s face. She snapmares Ruby into a half-straitjacket, then completes it.
The Squad coach Ruby as she stands up and fights out. Ruby runs, but into the hip toss. Sasha runs, meteora knees! TWO, but she’s on Ruby again with the armlock. Ruby fights up and out again, then dumps Sasha to the apron. She knocks Sasha down with a forearm, where Liv and Sarah wait. Sasha dodges Sarah and hits back, so Liv stays back. Sasha dodges Ruby’s wrecking ball to give a baseball slide in return! The Boss is in control while we go to break.
Raw returns to Ruby bending Sasha in a seated abdominal stretch. Sasha endures while fans rally. She arm-drags out of the hold but Ruby dropkicks her into buckles! Ruby keeps on Sasha with an STO and cover, TWO. Ruby keeps her cool while her Squad protests. She grinds Sasha’s face into the mat then bounces her face off it. Sasha fights back with body shots but Ruby clubs her down. Ruby kicks Sasha while she’s down, then wraps Sasha into a chinlock. Sasha endures the squeeze while fans rally again. Sasha stands up and fights back, but Ruby knees her low and whips her to a corner. She goes up and over to O’Conner roll, TWO but Sasha uses the momentum to hop up and fly for a crossbody! Cover, TWO!
Ssaha gets to a corner and elbows Ruby away. She boots Ruby then rallies with clotheslines. SHe dropkicks Ruby down, Ruby staggers up, Sasha counters the kick with a knee! Ruby staggers into a corner and Ssaha gives double knees. Ruby dodges the second set and throws Sasha down for a SUPERKICK. She then climbs up, stage dive senton!
CANNONBALL!!!#RAW @RubyRiottWWE pic.twitter.com/97SfGfr6Sh
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Cover, TWO! And no one can believe it. Ruby tries another cover, TWO, and the frustration grows. She argues with the ref, but goes back to Sasha. She drags Sasha up, but Sasha counters the arm wrench with the backstabber! Sasha flips Ruby over for the crossface, but Sarah distracts! Liv gets in and saves Ruby, Sasha doesn’t’ know who to go after first. The referee reprimands the Squad but Ruby hotshots Sarah. Sarah still knees back and Ruby sits down. Swinging meteora! And then for Liv, FLYING meteora off the apron! The Boss returns to the ring and climbs up but Sarah gets up. Sasha kicks her away, but Ruby catches Sasha with a right. Ruby hits a Riott Kick, covers, Ruby wins!
Winner: Ruby, by pinfall
The numbers game is TOO MUCH for @SashaBanksWWE as @RubyRiottWWE picks up the victory on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/qmtwo8nDkd
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The Squad helps their leader win, showing the power of numbers. Assists aside, will this big win bring Ruby up the ranks towards the Raw Women’s Championship?
Alexa Bliss gives another PSA.
“You never know when a bully will strike.” The Goddess shares another story of when she was bullied by Nia Jax. They were in Disney World, and Nia kept making fun of Alexa’s short stature. Nia joked if Alexa was tall enough to even ride the teacups. Then she said Alexa should have the kids’ menu at the restaurant. Alexa remembers Nia, turkey leg in each hand, laughing and laughing. “Nia turned the Happiest Place on Earth into the saddest day ever.” But at Backlash, Alexa says she’ll win back the Raw Women’s Championship. This match will be for everyone who has ever had a Nia in their life. Alexa won’t let bullies win. Twisting the truth aside, will the Goddess of Raw become the champion once again this Sunday?
"At #WWEBacklash, no matter what nasty tricks @NiaJaxWWE may have up her sleeve…I will win BACK my #RAW #WomensChampionship!" – @AlexaBliss_WWE pic.twitter.com/gcLuXmAhon
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Backstage interview with Titus O’Neil.
The Gator knows what moment everyone was talking about after the Greatest Royal Rumble. He entered for the Rumble match itself, but tripped and fell all the way under the ring. Titus “stole the show” and “broke the internet”, and he knows he fell flat on his face in front of the entire world. The idea is that you get back up, so perhaps this situation will inspire others. However, Baron Corbin walks over to ask what would’ve been more inspirational? If he hadn’t fallen at all. Corbin doesn’t know why Renee is wasting time interviewing Titus. Will Titus make Corbin regret wasting his time?
The #LoneWolf @BaronCorbinWWE doesn't know why @ReneeYoungWWE is "wasting time" talking to @TitusONeilWWE… #RAW pic.twitter.com/pGkU8LX0Nb
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
WOKEN Hardy speaks.
He loves reading his favorite stories of himself. The vessels of Hardy and Wyatt have transcended time and space~! They were at the very beginning of time, and in history’s greatest triumphs. But nothing compares to their most recent victory. Bray Wyatt appears now. “We are darkness and light.” And this yin-yang will consume everything in its path. “Behold, the Deleters of Worlds! RUN.” Will the WONDERFUL~ new Raw Tag Team Champions leave the rest of the Tag Team Division DELETED?
Behold…the DELETERS of WORLDS!#RAW @WWEBrayWyatt @MATTHARDYBRAND pic.twitter.com/tQZVVjbQn9
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Six Man Tag: Roman Reigns, Bobby Lashley & Braun Strowman VS Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn & Jinder Mahal w/ Sunil Singh!
The #ModernDayMaharaja @JinderMahal has arrived…#RAW ?? pic.twitter.com/wzeNlJVA6c
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Montreal's own…#RAW @SamiZayn @FightOwensFight pic.twitter.com/PTGTwXEoCl
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The hometown “heroes” and the Maharaja went after the Big Dog all at once, but the Dominater and the Monster Among Men came to his rescue. Now that the numbers are even, will Mahal and the #YEPMovement regret coming home?
His name is @BraunStrowman, and he is the WINNER of the first-ever 50-MAN Greatest Royal Rumble Match! #RAW #MonsterAmongMen pic.twitter.com/A5aGmk6P5J
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Are @SamiZayn @FightOwensFight & @JinderMahal up for a FIGHT?#RAW @fightbobby pic.twitter.com/AeKKrikv2e
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Enter: THE BIG DOG.#RAW @WWERomanReigns pic.twitter.com/FzI8tYhGAY
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The teams sort out and it will be Mahal starting for his team. Roman convinces Strowman and Lashley he’ll start, and the bell rings. Sami decides he wants to start, so Mahal tags him in. Montreal is of course behind Sami, but then Sami tags out to Kevin. The fans are still cheering, but then Kevin tags to Sami. Roman rocks Sami with uppercuts and right hands. Sami hits back but Roman throws him out. Roman pursues, but Sami kicks back, only for Roman to put Sami into the barriers. Kevin runs over but gets rocked, then they both get the Drive-By Dropkick! Roman is in control while we go to break.
Raw returns and Roman is still in contorl, until Sami opwers him to his corner. Mahal tags in and throws hands on the Big Dog. He then whips Roman but Roman reverses and runs Mahal over with an elbow. Roman brings Mahal over and tags in Lashley. Lashley throws hands on Mahal, then whips him to ropes for a back elbow of his own. Lashley rallies with lariats and a scoop slam, then brings Mahal up for the facelock. Mahal senses the suplex coming, so he fights out and runs, only for Lashley to jump over and knock him down. Lashley lifts Mahal in a fireman’s carry but Mahla fights out. Mahal pushes Lashley in a corner, Sami tags in and stomps away on the man who supposedly gave him a fit of vertigo.
Kevin gets a cheap shot in, too, but it’s Sami who tries to give Lashley a taste of his own medicine. Lashley reverses that into a neckbreaker, then hits a corner to corner clothesline. Lashley keeps moving for the shoulder tackle, then lifts Sami in the stalling suplex. Kevin runs in and kicks Lashley’s ribs! Roman protests but Sami tags to Kevin. Kevin goes after Lashley with furious fists and stomps and the fans go wild! He brings Lashley up and tags in Mahal to mug Lashley in the Canadian corner. Mahal tags Kevin and they keep Lashley isolated. Kevin snapmares Lashley and kicks him in the back before putting on a chinlock. Fans are fired up as he grinds Lashley into the mat. We go picture in picture while Lashley endures.
Kevin squeezes Lashley’s head, but Lashley manages to sit up. Lashley stands as we return to single picture. He fights back but Kevin kicks out his legs, then hits the back senton. Cover, TWO, but Kevin keeps on Lashley with a rain of rights. Kevin drives his knee in then wraps Lashley back into the chinlock. Roman and Strowman reach while Lashley crawls his way over, but Kevin wrangles him away. Fans rally but Lashley starts to fade. Lashley gets a second wind and gets up. He fights out but Kevin knees low. Kevin whips but Lashley kicks him away, to then hit a complete shot! Both men are down but crawling for their corners. Fans rally as hot tags to Sami and Roman! Roman rallies on Sami, then whips but Sami reverses. Roman still blasts out for the clothesline, and gives a shot to Mahal.
Sami gets to a corner, Roman gives him the close-range clotheslines. He then runs, to boot Sami down! Fans are a loud mix while Roman locks and loads. Roman has to hit Sunil Singh first, then throw him back out. Sami tags in Kevin and gets an uppercut, but Kevin DDT’s Roman! Cover, TWO! Kevin is furious while we go to break.
Raw returns again, and Sami has Roman in a chinlock. Fans sing for Sami but Roman works his way up to his feet. Roman works to power Sami back but Sami gives him a forearm. Roman rocks Sami with uppercut after uppercut, then walks to his corner. Sami grabs a leg and drags Roman back, Kevin tags in. Kevin clubs Roman down to the mat, then hops up for a Vader Bomb elbow!
Picture-perfect execution on this one by @FightOwensFight… #RAW #6ManTag pic.twitter.com/vZFi0ZLe0w
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Cover, TWO, and Kevin is furious all over again. Kevin rains rights down on Roman, then tags Sami back in. Sami gives rights of his own to Roman, then covers, TWO, so Sami keeps on Roman with the chinlock. Roman fights to his feet again, and gives Sami a back suplex! Both men are down and crawling towards their corners, and fans rally as Kevin gets the hot tag.
Kevin puts Roman in the corner but Roman fights out. Roman hits everyone and boots Kevin away, but Kevin whips Roman, SUPERMAN PUNCH! Mahal tags in and rocks Lashley to then taunt Strowman. Samoan Drop from Roman! Hot tag to Strowman! The Monster clobbers Mahal, then goes out to steamroll Kevin a la Greatst Royal Rumble! Strowman does the same to Sami, then again to Mahal, then again to Sami! Kevin dodges this time, but not th enext time! Strowman returns to the ring, but Mahal dodges him in the corner thanks to Sunil. Strowman hits the post, Sami runs in, but into Lashley! Mahal boots Lashley, then tags to Kevin! Kevin and Mahal work together but Roman SPEARS Mahal outta nowhere! SUPERKICK to Roman, SUPERKICK to Strowman! Kevin runs but is caught, into the MONSTER SLAM!! Cover, Strowman and team win!
Winners: Strowman, Roman & Lashley, Strowman pinning
Call it a win on the road for @BraunStrowman @WWERomanReigns & @fightbobby! #RAW pic.twitter.com/Vnb8PRtsmr
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
The homecoming for Kevin & Sami doesn’t go their way, while the Monster Among Men continues on his incredible roll. Will Strowman make his way up towards a title match of his own in the near future?
Baron Corbin VS No Way Jose!
The Lone Wolf didn’t want to fight the Fighting Fiesta last week, he just wanted to ruin the fun. Will he continue to have fun ruining Jose’s fun? Or will Jose say No Way to that with a win?
"A wise man once said, to make money, you can't be funny." @BaronCorbinWWE is out to make a fool of @WWENoWayJose on #RAW… pic.twitter.com/s3oDh4FcCy
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
Corbin first speaks, saying, “To make money, you can’t be funny.” Fans can jeer all they want, he still gets paid. He can’t stand the superstars who just want to make the fans laugh. Titus tripped and fell while Jose has a conga line. “This nonsense makes me want to puke.” Corbin is here to win titles and make money. He makes money punching people in the mouth, and that’s why no one is on his level. Corbin will end the nonsense, and promises that “no one will be laughing.”
??????????
PARTY TIME on #RAW! @WWENoWayJose pic.twitter.com/xtGCAGP8eU
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Jose makes his entrance and his conga line stands ringside as the match begins. Corbin lunges but Jose dodges. Jose throws hands but Corbin whips him to a corner. Jose dodges again but Corbin slides out then in to clobber Jose! Corbin mocks the fans then stomps Jose. Corbin drags Jose up but Jose hits back with body shots. Jose dumps Corbin out of the ring, then boots Corbin on his return. Corbin puts Jose on the apron but Jose hits back. Jose climbs up, but misses that double ax handle! Corbin rams Jose into the post, but Titus O’Neil appears! He has Apollo and Dana with him, and their Worldwide~ entrance prepares the runway. Titus comes down, but they keep him from sliding again. Corbin watches Titus but Titus slips on the apron!
OOPS, HE DID IT AGAIN!#RAW @TitusONeilWWE pic.twitter.com/44AceU5McQ
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Corbin laughs at the fool, but Jose rolls him up! Jose wins!!
Winner: Jose, by pinfall
And the party rolls on with Titus Worldwide joining in! That slip was all a feint, the joke is on Corbin. Corbin glares as the conga line heads out, who will have the last laugh?
Mickie James w/ Alexa Bliss VS Natalya w/ Ronda Rousey!
Is @MickieJames confident heading into her first match against @NatbyNature in nearly nine years? We're about to find out! #RAW pic.twitter.com/tmbSg7FyTT
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
The Queen of Harts found herself the target of the vindictive veteran in #KickieJames, but it was the Baddest Woman on the Planet that made her pay for it. Now Natty has a chance at revenge herself, can she get back at Mickie for last week?
.@RondaRousey + @NatbyNature = Dream Team? #RAW pic.twitter.com/VJrrx0ibeU
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The bell rings and Mickie circles with Natty. Natty gets the arm wrench but Mickie gets away tot he outside. The referee counts while Natty waits in the ring. Mickie returns and circles with Natty again, but Natty clubs Mickie and wrenches that arm. Natty snapmares and walks all over Mickie to then dropkick Mickie down. Cover, TWO, but Natty stalks Mickie to a corner. Mickie puts Natty into buckles, then throws her down to the mat. Mickie kicks Natty again, then covers, TWO. She puts Natty in the bodyscissors and squeezes. Alexa likes what she sees as Natty endures, but Natty turns around. She and Mickie brawl, but Mickie puts on the guillotine headlock. Ronda couches Natty and Natty scoops Mickie, but Mickie turns that to a crossbody. TWO, but Mickie keeps on Natty in a corner.
Natty elbows Mickie away, then ducks to discus clothesline Mickie down. Natty gets the takedown, and the legs, but Alexa distracts. Mickie kicks the bad leg out! Ronda glares at the Goddess, and Alexa decides to run! They go around and around the ring, Natty rolls Mickie up! Natty wins!
Winner: Natty wins, by pinfall
Ronda enters the ring to check on Natty, that knee is still bugging her. The Queen of Harts still won, will she be able to reach the title? Speaking of the title, Nia Jax appears! The champion chases off The Goddess tonight, but there won’t be running at Backlash. For now, Nia enters the ring and eyes the Rowdy Ronda. They’re not enemies tonight, she helps Natty celebrate along with Ronda. Will the Irresistible Force retain her title this Sunday?
A little congratulations are in order for @NatbyNature on the win by @RondaRousey and the #RAW #WomensChampion @NiaJaxWWE! pic.twitter.com/pnwuNP4a8t
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre speak.
When they speak, you feel it. It’s real, like them. Other superstars are just “happy to be here”, but these two know they deserve to be here. They’ll show everyone why. If they were everyone else on Raw, they’d be afraid. The Show-Off and the Stud aren’t here to steal the show, they’re going to take it.
"We didn't come to #RAW to steal the show. Nah, we're just going to take it."@HEELZiggler @DMcIntyreWWE pic.twitter.com/IMMPyYryYW
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) May 1, 2018
WWE Intercontinental Championship: Seth Rollins VS Finn Balor!
Is @FinnBalor on his way to earning #ICTitle gold? #RAW pic.twitter.com/tUWN07WSey
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
As the Extraordinary Man said, he and the Architect are tied at 2-2 in 1v1 competition. This title match will be their tiebreaker, but whoever wins will have to turn around and defend the title at Backlash! Who will the A-Lister meet this Sunday as he attempts to make history for himself?
It is MAIN EVENT TIME on Monday Night #RAW…or should we say #MondayNightRollins?@WWERollins @FinnBalor pic.twitter.com/jDMm7nwKny
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
The bell rings and they circle. They tie up and spin around until Rollins puts Finn in a corner. He gives Finn a little shove as they break, letting Finn know he remembers that sneak attack earlier. They tie up again and Finn gets around Rollins but Rollins reverses to a headlock. Finn powers out and things speed up, Finn arm-drags Rollins but Rollins springs up to whip Finn. Things speed up again and Rollins runs Finn over with a back elbow. Rollins throws Finn out then slingshots over! He wipes Finn out, then we go to break.
Raw returns once more, with Rollins holding Finn down in a chinlock. Finn endures and stands up. He goes to fight back but Rollins intercepts with a knee. Rollins chops, so Finn chops back. Rollins gives a chop, Finn gives a chop, so Rollins kicks and whips Finn. Finn boots back, then runs out to rally with forearms. Finn whips but Rollins reverses, only for Finn to hit another forearm! Fans fire up, and Finn chops Rollins in the corner. Finn whips but Rollins reverses and reverses direction. Finn hops up and over but runs into a boot. Rollins hops up and blocks Finn’s swing kick, to then hit the blockbuster! Fans fire up again while Rollins takes aim. He runs in for the forearm smash, then the buckle smash! He aims at the dazed Finn, and springboards for the clothesline!
Finn rolls out of the ring while fans fire up more. Rollins builds speed, and DIVES on Finn! He keeps moving, for another- Swing kick! Finn gets back up on the apron and drags himself up to his feet. Fans declare “This is Awesome!” while Finn throws forearms and body shots. Rollins ducks, swings out, but has to swing again, still ends up in a DDT from Finn!
May @FinnBalor have this dance?@WWERollins just got PLANTED on #RAW! #ICTitle pic.twitter.com/gErtbxZlh2
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Cover, TWO! Finn keeps focus while he gets to his feet. He takes aim from a corner while Rollins slowly stands. Rollins counters the slingblade but still gets a dropkick, then the elbow drop DDT. Cover, TWO! Finn grows a bit frustrated, but keeps his focus while catching his breath. Rollins stirs but Finn is on him with chops. Finn stalks and trash talks Rollins, then chops again. He whips Rollins corner to corner, but Rollins comes out with a slingblade!
Rollins wrings Finn out for Revolution Knee! Cover, TWO! Fans fire up again with Rollins, and he stomps the mat. “Burn It Down! Burn It Down!” Mule kick, then the run, but into a forearm from Finn! Finn puts Rollins on the apron, but Rollins springboards back in. Finn evades and hits the takedown to double stomps! He doesn’t make the cover, he stands up. Finn evades and swing kicks Rollins down! Rollins is in the drop zone while Finn climbs up, but Rollins revives to shove Finn backwards! Rollins then climbs up to join Finn, and fans fire up. Finn fights back and shoves Rollins down, but Rollins returns for the SUPERPLEX, roll through to– No wait, Falcon Arrow from Finn! Cover, TWO!! Fans give a standing ovation for this amazing main event.
Both men stand up while fans chant “This is Awesome!” Rollins gives a forearm, so Finn gives a forearm. Finn fires off, but Rollins swings, dragon sleeper to- No, Rollins knees that away, but Finn PELE! Rollins PELE in return! Finn still clotheslines Rollins out of the ring. But he’s not done there, Finn builds speed and FLIES!
FLY, FINN, FLY!!!#RAW #ICTitle @FinnBalor pic.twitter.com/DoXMV4IikS
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
Finn hurries to put Rollins in the ring, then takes aim from a corner, blasting dropkick! Rollins goes down and Finn climbs up again. Finn takes aim, COU DE- No, Rollins evades, then mule kicks, but Finn evade the stomp. Roll up, TWO, Finn avoids the stomp again, another roll up, TWO!! SLINGBLADE! Finn’s feeling it as he– runs into a SUPERKICK! Both men are down but not for long. Rollins has Finn, CUR STOMP!! Cover, Rollins wins!!
Winner: Rollins, by pinfall; still Intercontinental Champion
It is #MondayNightRollins indeed with this incredible victory! The Architect retains the title tonight, but can he and Raw retain it against the A-Lister of SmackDown?
That concludes this episode of #MondayNightRollins.#RAW @WWERollins pic.twitter.com/aa1GPGqGOq
— WWE (@WWE) May 1, 2018
My Thoughts:
For the first ever Raw After Greatest Royal Rumble, this was a really good show. The events of GRR are treated as canon, but not really that touched upon. There was no overruling or debate over the cage match ending, Lesnar is the champ without question. If it’s true the “Roman Experiment” is taking some time off, then perhaps that’s why they put him up against literally all three hometown superstars to get him booed more than usual. Luckily they teamed him with two guys who are still very popular. I’m personally disappointed Strowman didn’t have the GRR belt. It’s like he can’t be seen holding a belt past 24 hours. And given how he was the one to win the Six Man Tag, he should be the next person to challenge Brock Lesnar and be the one to finally take that belt from Lesnar.
Roode-Elias really upped the intensity with that throat spot. Too bad Extreme Rules isn’t until July, I’d love these two having at least a No DQ match. AoP needs to move up from jobbers already, maybe take on The Revival for throwbacks to NXT. It’s actually great progress for the Sasha-Bayley story that Bayley wasn’t there at all tonight. Taking a slow burn to their true main roster blow-off is the way to go. Meanwhile, Sasha still has a great match with Ruby, and it’s okay that Sasha loses because her story will be with Bayley. Ruby can move towards the title like she did on SmackDown, but in the same way as on SmackDown, she probably won’t win with the current champion being so strong. Maybe if Alexa wins it back and then the Squad somehow goes Face against the Mean Girl Goddess, Ruby can win.
Corbin-Jose looked like filler, but then tying in Titus Worldslide, it was just a proxy to Corbin-Titus. That feud can do a lot for both guys, and can go either way at this point. Assuming Alexa doesn’t win the title back, I imagine we could get a Natty-Ronda VS Alexa-Mickie, to then maybe move to Ronda’s first singles feud with Natty. They’ve been touted as friends, so maybe something turns Natty against Ronda. That IC Championship main event was incredible, and I was honestly surprised The Miztourage didn’t interfere. Their bit before was great, but I just thought they’d want revenge and make sure Miz has a weakened opponent. Instead, it was allowed to finish, and the dodging and countering was so great. Rollins is on his way back to being The Man and is keeping that IC title going strong.
My Score: 8.5/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25
Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?

Last week’s episode was lacking in ring work but had decent story moments and segments. Starting the build to Slammiversary we can either launch nicely or things can always get worse. Jason Hotch and KC Navarro are the real shining stars of the last few months, so lets hope once they get over this Leon Slater idiot ship, they can push X Division wrestlers with actual talent for pro wrestling and not just flippy charisma vacuums.
Oh and let’s not forget, it is the episode they celebrate the 23rd anniversary of TNA! TWENTY – THREE!! Somewhere PCO hates this.
.@Kelly_WP is back in TNA Wrestling and has a message for TNA Knockouts World Champion @mashaslamovich!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZKKuL pic.twitter.com/tnm4TIuPUz
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Ratings:
- Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers: EY wins via Piledriver – ** 3/4
- Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge: Elegantos win via Rarefied Air – ***
- Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man: HTM wins via Cradle – *
- Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams: Elijah wins via Highwayman’s Farewell – ***
Results:
Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers
Sami knocks them all off the apron before the bell rings, he levels the loser children, finds a chair, attacks EY but EY counters and this is the excuse to use weapons since the bell didn’t ring yet. EY tries to break Sami’s hand on the steps with the chair, but Sami moves, throws EY back in the ring, bell rings and EY hits a Belly to Belly suplex for two. They slug it out, Sami goes for Headbutts, then Sami wants to run the ropes but a loser trips him, distracts long enough for EY to knock him out of the ring and loser children swarm as loser children do. EY does the classic, throw back out for losers to attack while EY grabs and distracts the ref. Sami is selling a few lame attacks from the losers like he got shot. It’s an excessive sell, so it’s honestly a dumb transitional moment.
EY levels Sami, Lariat into Scoop Slam, looks for the Macho Elbow but Sami hits the ropes to crotch EY. Sami Superplex time, but EY bites the face to make Sami drop, EY jumps at him but eats a straight right hand. Cactus Driver, but no, EY tries his Piledriver…they both gouge eyes at the same time, Sami catches an EY charge into a Flatliner as they’re both down…for…reasons? The selling in this match seems…poorly timed and kinda stupid. Hard Irish Whip, EY Flair Flips the corner, levels Sami, Macho Elbow for 2.9! EY threatens to hit the ref, but then goes to mad dog commentary. EY then wants to attack fans…he’s more unhinged than World Elite EY. Sami gives him the old Dick Twist into a Stunner but only for two! Losers try to distract, first one gets taken out, second one uses a chair, EY hits the Piledriver on Sami, EY wins.
I feel like this is gonna continue for a few weeks since it wasn’t a clean win.
Mustafa Ali’s group comes out, and I refuse to say the name because it’s dumb and they’re already fraying at the seams. Ali wants an apology session, Tasha and Hotch apologize to him but Skyler bites back and refuses, even shoved Ali. So Ali challenges him to a “Call to Arms” match. What in the hell is a Call to Arms match?
Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge
ASH does her borderline racist fake karate before Lei stares her down and tags in Heather. Heather avoids Lei, Lei throws a few Tornado Kicks to make a point and Heather tags out. Heather being 4’8″ helps her here. Concierge says “There’s no Karate in wrestling”. ASH, Lei and Masha are in the ring, ASH is trying to decide who she wants to face, but the Concierge google translated it and hands it to ASH, before the face team rocks ASH. Masha lifts up Lei and Lei does the Liu Kang Bicycle Kick, steering more into her Mortal Kombat aesthetic. Senton off the apron from Lei and Masha dives into the pile, the comedy heels are getting leveled. We go to commercial and come back with Lei getting Double Teamed but she spins it into a weird Neckbreaker..but can’t tag out just yet. Lei blocks Heather, Enzuigiri, simultaneous tag, Masha is Yakuza kicks for all and the 2 for 1 Lariat/DDT special. Near fall, but Masha goes for murder, but Heather breaks it, Rocket Launcher/Code Breaker from Elegance but Lei breaks up the pin. ASH tries to intimidate Lei with her fake Karate before throwing her out of the ring. Heather hits Lei with a handful of Glitter and then bounces her face off the post. Masha tries to stop ASH, Kelly’s music distracts Masha, Rarefied Air gives ASH the win.
Santino comes out and GOD DAMMIT no one wants to see Tommy Dreamer fight Mance Warner…that’s a useless thing. Pivot away…no one wants this. Oh no, now we have to listen to Steph talk too. Okay it seems to be a pivot, thankfully. Steph and Mance talk shit, Dreamer says something about Something is gonna happen…and Jake Something comes out. So…I guess we’re gonna build him up for 2 months and then job him out for 6 before he fucks off to his home galaxy or whatever?
.@indi_hartwell has a run in with Tessa Blanchard!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZLikj pic.twitter.com/I6UCCk2fAG
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Really wish Indi just opened with the Billy Butcher classic of, “Oi Cunt!” – but this wasn’t bad.
Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man
I hate… Cardona so much more now. Heel reasons for Cardona…go away heat for Deaner.
JDC wants the Home Town Man to start…and Deaner does his stupid Flip Flop and Fly, Cardona tags in, JDC is eating some offense, Cardona wants the Reboot, JDC powders, Cardona Dives but then Lish and the general numbers catch up to Cardona. Eddie is legal, and now they isolate Cardona with some decent tandem work and isolation. This turns into kind of a schmoz, lots of silly spots, near falls and then Home Town doofus gets the cradle pinfall on Eddie.
Whenever Deaner is involved I can’t be asked to care. The System beats Cardona and Deaner down, but Eddie did eat a pin. Which is embarrassing not even for work reasons, like it’s just sad.
Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams
Elijah and Nic start things off, slow push off, arm wring, top wristlock, simple chain wrestling start. Nic breaks the chain and hits a Dropkick, Elijah runs the ropes and hits a Diving Lariat and starts the Rope Walk. Nic seems far to awake and alert for that move then, I hate how people pull that off too early. Wentz gets tagged in, Nic tags in Maclin who wasn’t looking for a tag, but him and Wentz have a nice clash, Trey tags in, they try to double him, but they pause and look at each other. Maclin asks for a tag, no one tags him so he Chops Ryan to tag him in and throws him in.
The little nod to Maclin and Rascalz history and the fact the faces realize Maclin isn’t a piece of shit. A little MCMG homage tandem attacks on Ryan, Wentz punctuates with the Handspring Knee Lift, Ryan tags out to Trick. Trick and Wentz go back and forth, Rascalz have Trick eating offense, Moose tries to slow things down, both Trick and Moose powder, Rascalz Double Golden Triangle Moonsaults. Trey gets tripped by Nic, Moose hits Lights Out, but there’s no referee so it’s a little chaotic.
Out of the commercial things are controlled kinda and we see a simultaneous tag to Moose and Leon. Leon comes out hot, level Moose with a Leg Lariat, attacks Nic Nemeth, attacks Ryan, and then Moose hits Leon with the Stun Gun. Moose looks to tag in Maclin but Maclin jumps off the apron. Trick takes the tag, keeps control, Trick forcibly tags in Maclin but Ryan tags himself in and pulls Leon to the Champions’ corner, Nic tags in and isolates Leon, with the Kaibas quick tagging and keeping Leon down.
Moose tags in, tries to Suplex Leon about four times but Leon stops it then counters the Suplex. Moose tries to cut him off, but the Champions distract the ref so the ref can’t see Leon tag out. Nic and Moose doubling up and Leon is the bump guy of this last portion of the match. Big Uranage from Moose…Moose looks for Lights Out but Small Package almost ruined things, Body Scissors Cradle, GAME CHANGER! Moose looks to hit a Jacknife Powerbomb but Leon turns it into a DDT. Maclin and Ryan start fighting, Nic Superkicks Maclin, Hendry and Nic tag in, Hendry is a house of fire. Sack of Shits for everyone! Nic, Ryan, there’s a pause when Hendry is face to face with Trick and Trick gets Uppercuts first then Sack of Shit! Standing Ovation on Nic, but Ryan blocks, Kaibas try a tandem attack but Hendry Lariats them both. Elijah tags in and is the maestro of the crowd and chopping Ryan to some fun. Ryan goes for a Polish Hammer but eats the Knee Lift. Signature spam time…
Ryan tries to use the International title but Maclin grabs the title away from Ryan, clocks Nic, Standing Ovation into the Highwayman’s Farewell. Champions lose!
Overall Score: 4/10
Well this was a rough one boys and girls. Sami and EY was just an overbooked shitshow, Lei Ying Lee is unfortunately in a spot where it’s obvious TNA has no clue how to use her, the Elegantos are the New Beautiful People, and I’m not mad at that. But you need to space out your goofball crap. You can’t have Elegance Clique, Home Town Moron and Santino in 3 consecutive segments. And if anyone goes “it was 3 out of 4” that’s doesn’t lessen my point, the beauty of Pro Wrestling being a variety show is…FOR VARIETY! When the lead match feels stupid because of bad pacing, poor selling and overbooking with two losers, it feels like a useless match with idiots, then comedy, followed by more comedy…you see how that’s literally NOT VARIETY.
Figure it out seriously. This was a disappointing episode. If you’re a casual viewer than it’s just chalk for TNA doing cringe and borderline goof crap since they’ve always steered a little more into the carny than other companies. But this show was…where’s Jisoo and Jenny? I feel like I need that gif:
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Run Or Hide, The Infantry’s Outside!
Shane Taylor & Lee Moriarty in one match, The Infantry in another, will Shane Taylor Promotions finally take control of ROH?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Shane Taylor & Lee Moriarty w/ Trish Adora VS Anthony Gangone & Sal Mistretta; Shane & Lee win.
- Pure Rules Match: Deonna Purrazzo VS Marti Belle; Deonna wins.
- Lance Archer VS Aaron Solo; Archer wins.
- Miyu Yamashita VS Brooke Havok; Miyu wins.
- 8 Man Tag: The Infantry & Grizzled Young Veterans VS The Kingdom & Top Flight; The Kingdom & Top Flight win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Shane Taylor & Lee Moriarty w/ Trish Adora VS Anthony Gangone & Sal Mistretta!
The full force of Shane Taylor Promotions will be felt tonight! Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo are in tonight’s main event, but that leaves Big Bad Shaney T Boy and #TAIGASTYLE to open the night. Will they prove that ROH now belongs to STP? Or will Mr. Sleep & #SturdySal show they can rumble, bad man, rumble?
The teams sort out and Lee starts against Gangone. The bell rings and Lee LEG LARIATS Gangone! The fans fire up and Lee says, “Get over here!” Lee puts Gangone in a corner, fires hands, then JUMP KNEES! Lee drags Gangone up and the fans rally behind him. Lee wrenches, and wrenches, then hits an ELBOW BREAKER! Tag to Shane but Gangone ROCKS Lee! Gangone gets away to tag in Sal. Shane and Sal step up as fans chant “MEAT! MEAT! MEAT!” Sal ROCKS Shane, but then Shane brushes that off. Shane grins, the fans tell Sal he messed up, and Shane HEADBUTTS Sal! Sal wobbles while Shane shouts, “The hell is wrong with you, chump?”
Shane then YANKS Sal in for the URENAGE! The fans fire up and want that again, but Shane drags Sal around by a leg. Shane says why not. Ripcord and URENAGE! The fans fire up behind Shane and he rolls Sal so he can KNEE him back down! The fans chant for “S T P! S T P!” Shane winds up but Gangone runs in! Lee intercepts for the BORDER CITY STRETCH! Shane says STP reigns supreme! HAYMAKER!! Cover, STP wins!
Winners: Shane Taylor & Lee Moriarty, by pinfall
Shane reminds us that he is coming for everything! Everything! Will it be just this easy for STP to own ROH?
BREAKING NEWS for next week!
ROH joins in on the crossover with CMLL as next week is Global Wars: Mexico! Lee Moriarty will be in action against none other than THE Blue Panther! Then, Athena & Red Velvet take on Thunder Rosa y Persephone in a dream tag team match! Will the champions of ROH stand tall in Arena Mexico? Or will there be golden tickets handed out left and right?
Pure Rules Match: Deonna Purrazzo VS Marti Belle!
While the ROH Women’s Pure Championship tournament still needs a full bracket, the Virtuosa is going to keep herself sharp for when she needs to strike. But will there be another masterpiece put together here tonight? Or will Marti prove she herself deserves a chance at making history?
The Code of Honor is upheld and the bell rings. We have 15 minutes as the two circle. They feel things out, knuckle lock, and then Deonna kicks an arm to wrangle Marti with the top wristlock. Marti rises up, rolls, and wrenches to wristlock. Deonna wrenches and headlocks to hit the takeover. Marti endures, fights up, powers out, but Deonna RUNS her over! Deonna soaks up the cheers and jeers, runs, then steps over Marti’s dropdown to “kick dirt” at her. Deonna eggs Marti on and the two reset. They tie up, Marti waistlocks but Deonna switches. Marti switches, lifts, but Deonna fights. Deonna ELBOWS free, then goes after Marti in the corner.
Deonna whips corner to corner, runs up, but Marti slips outside. Deonna ROCKS Marti first, soaks up more cheers and jeers, then runs, only for Marti to dodge the dropkick! Marti fires forearms, whips, but Deonna reverses and throat chops! Deonna sends Marti into steel steps! The fans are torn but Deonna wants the ring count. Deonna says it is just too easy, and Marti is rising up as the count starts. Deonna eggs Marti on, the fans rally, and Marti huffs ‘n’ puffs. Marti rolls in at 5 of 20 but Deonna stomps away! The ref counts, Deonna stops at 4, and Deonna wrenches. Deonna YANKS Marti’s arm, then wrenches again to YANK it!
Marti clutches the arm but Deonna reels her into a facelock. Marti fights the suplex, makes it a cradle, ONE!! Deonna runs up, Marti rolls her up, TWO! Marti spins and ROLLING ELBOWS! Deonna falls and the fans fire up! Deonna goes to a corner, Marti runs in, but Deonna dodges! Marti hits buckles, then Deonna blocks a boot to THROW Marti down! Deonna has the arm and the leg, then focuses on the arm to make a SACRIFICE! The fans are torn but Deonna feeds off it all. Deonna demands Marti to rise up, and as we hit four minutes, Deonna SOBATS, runs, and KNEE LIFTS into the RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP!
Deonna rolls through, FUJIWARA ARMBAR!! Marti endures, reaches out, but Deonna grabs that arm, too! VENIS DE MILO!! Marti verbally quits and Deonna wins!
Winner: Deonna Purrazzo, by submission
Neither woman used a ropebreak in this match, and Deonna didn’t need to! At just four minutes and 24 seconds, Deonna finishes this. Will she not only become ROH Women’s Pure Champion, but do it in record time?
The Frat House speaks.
Jacked Jameson says, “Yeah, Johnny Hungy? Johnny Starving For Attention! You wanna come back and try and get one up on The Frat House? I don’t think so, pal! And Reynolds, you talking about I got a tiny package? I got a small package, in the ring, yeah! If you’re talking about this package, ask your girl!” Preston Vance says yes, good package. But Dark Order, Vance has hated them from the beginning. They call him a traitor when he just did something for himself for once. He hates Uno, he hates Reynolds, but the one he hates the most is Silver. Starving for attention, always has been, same guy since day one!
Dark Order wants a trios match? They’ll take you up on that. But remember the one rule: Win or lose, they BOOZE~! The Frat House marches off, cheering themselves on. But will they be humbled when Uno, Silver & Reynolds finally get a back on track?
Mark Sterling reviews footage with The Premier Athletes.
Smart Mark looks back at a loss The Premier Athletes suffered against the Sons of Texas, and he points out specifically when Dustin Rhodes grabbed him, TOSSED him, and that is assault on a ringside consultant. That is why Sterling has the cameras here. He wants to inform Tony Nese & Ariya Daivari that the State of Michigan sports authority agreed with him, that match was tainted and therefore expunged from their records, along with a few others. But then, that means they’re undefeated? Yes! Their record is spotless now! Daivari says he isn’t sure about them, but he was pretty confident he heard way less “Athletes Suck” chants than usual. Almost 50-50 out there.
Nese says Shop AEW has not seen a single soul buying the Athletes Suck shirt. Great news! And bad news for the rest of ROH. There is nothing scarier than a couple of athletes with momentum. They will take this momentum and go straight to the ROH World Tag Team Championships. Y’know why? Because Athletes RULE! Well, one thing these three haven’t lost is their confidence. But will legal loopholes and changing grades really turn them into champions?
8 Man Tag: The Infantry & Grizzled Young Veterans VS The Kingdom & Top Flight!
What interesting combinations on both sides. Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo are just as tough as Zack Gibson & James Drake but with far more energy and bravado, but then Matt Taven & Mike Bennett used to make Darius & Dante Martin go through hell! Which side can put aside their differences better and come out the victors?
Well it would seem STP & GYV can as they all attack The Kingdom & Top Flight! The fans boo and the bell rings, but GYV beat down Top Flight while Infantry beat down Kingdom, another grudge coming back to haunt Taven & Bennett! The ref reprimands but the tides turn a bit. Taven brawls with Bravo on the outside, Bennett fires hands on Dean, and the Martin brothers throw hands back on GYV! Taven SMACKS Bravo off the apron, Darius UPPERCUTS James Drake, and the teams finally sort out a bit. Bravo runs back in but Taven LARIATS Bravo and himself up and out! Darius whips Drake to a corner, then runs up, but into an ELBOW!
Drake runs up, Darius arm-drags and DROPKICKS! Darius brings Drake around, Dante tags in, and Top Flight coordinates. Darius takes a swing but Drake dodges, only for Dante to send him into Darius’ UPPERCUT! Dante adds a JUMP KNEE and Darius LARIATS! Cover, ONE, but Dante basement DROPKICKS! Dante keeps Drake from the corner to tag Taven. They mug Drake, then Taven ROCKS him. Taven whips, Drake reverses but Taven cartwheels! Taven dodges, springboard and FLYING ARM-DRAGS! Taven then bypasses and DROPKICKS! The fans fire up because “IIII’M Matt Taven!” Bennett says the fans actually like Taven now.
Taven brings Drake up and into a headlock, but Drake pulls hair! Drake tags Gibson while he powers out, then he drops down for Gibson to trip Taven! Gibson drags Taven out, but Taven DECKS him! But then Drake DIVES onto Taven! The fans fire up and Infantry talks some trash. Gibson lifts Taven to SNAKE EYES off railing! Gibson puts Taven on the apron, and cravats for the neck wrench, and then a SLAM ono the apron! Taven sputters, Gibson stays between him and the corner, but the fans rally up. Taven fights the underhooks to fire body shots. Gibson keeps Taven back with a wristlock, and he tags in Drake!
Drake runs up, GYV double whip, and then they trap Taven in the corner. Drake ELBOWS Taven, Gibson UPPERCUTS, and then feed to the WHEEL KICK! Cover, TWO! Drake argues, but then he ROCKS Taven! Tag to Bravo and he RAMS into Taven! The Infantry mugs Taven, the ref counts and Bravo stops. Tag to Dean, and the Infantry double wrench to DOUBLE BACK SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Dean throws off his shirt and drags Taven up. Dean scoops to put Taven in the Tree of Woe. Tag to Bravo and the Infantry stomp mudholes in! The fans boo, the ref counts, Gibson talks trash, but Infantry stops at 4.
The Infantry taunt Bennett & Top Flight before they DOBULE DROPKICK Taven outta the Tree! Cover, TWO! Bravo JABS, JABS, and then he BLASTS Top Flight! Bravo says they got nothing! But Taven scoops! Bravo slips free, but Taven HEEL KICKS! Both men crawl, hot tags to Darius and Dean! Darius rallies on Dean and GYV! Uppercut after uppercut then a whip! Dean reverses, but jumps into an atomic drop! Then the BULLDOG HOTSHOT! SUPERKICK for Gibson! GAMANGIRI for Dean! Then a step-in COMPLETE SHOT! Cover, Gibson breaks it! Dante whips Gibson but Gibson reverses. Dante goes out, up, around, and Gibson just keeps missing!
Dante GAMANGIRIS, then springboards to CROSSBODY! Bravo KNEES Dante, whips, but Darius is there to boost Dante up and over! Then Dante helps Darius hit the TORNADO DDT on Bravo! The fans fire up and Mike asks to be tagged in. Darius tags Mike and the fans fire up! Bennett CHOPS away on Dean! Gibson runs up, Bennett puts him in the corner and CHOPS away on them both Bravo runs up, Bennett puts him in the corner and CHOPS away on all three! The fans fire up as Drake runs up, but then Bennett spots him first! “You want some?!” Drake reconsiders but Bennett puts him in the corner, to CHOP away on all four!
The fans are fired up and Bennett brings Drake out to tag Taven. Gibson saves Drake, throat chops Mike, then clinches Taven. Drake ENZIGIRIS Taven! Dante DOUBLE CANNONBALLS GYV! Dean kicks Dante low, reels him in, and crosses the arms, DEPTH CHARGE! But Darius BOOTS Dean, then WALL WALK KICKS! Bravo runs up, kicks low, and runs to SCISSOR KICK! Bennett is back, fireman’s carry, DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Taven adds JUST THE TIP of the knee! Bennett says time to kill ’em! But Gibson Y ANKS Bennett out! Taven gives Drake a KICK O’ THE KING! Bennett and Gibson brawl that way, Taven hits FLIGHT OF THE CONQUEROR on GYV!
Dante SPLASHES Dean, whips, but Dean reverses. Bravo runs to CARLIE CROSSOVER! Feed to Dean’s FLYING LARIAT! Infantry gets Dante up and sends him to BOOT CAMP!! Cover, DARIUS BREAKS IT! The fans fire up as this keeps going! GYV and Kingdom brawl, Bravo storms up but Darius TOSSES him out onto GYV and Kingdom! Darius reels Dean in and suplexes, but Dean slips free! Dean shoves Darius, Darius slides but Dean hurdles over. Dean ROCKS Darius, Darius CHOPS Dean, Dean JUMP KNEES back! Dean fires up, but Darius blocks a kick and makes it a FISHERMAN BUSTER!
The fans fire up and Dante is up top! MAMBA SPLASH!! Cover, Top Flight & Kingdom win!
Winners: The Kingdom & Top Flight, by pinfall
Former rivals made great allies here and they came out on top! But with everyone wanting the ROH World Tag Team Championships, will The Kingdom and Top Flight have to battle it out like the old days? Or can they stay friendly in the race to the top?
My Thoughts:
A very good episode but I’m surprised this was only 37 minutes long. Even then, there were pretty obvious squash matches, like Archer beating Solo and Miyu beating Havok. Well, so was Shane & Lee winning, but opening matches aren’t skippable. Ok and Deonna was of course winning her Pure Rules match. Why didn’t TK just get the ROH Women’s Pure Championship tournament going by now so that the title match could be at Supercard? Good to hear about Global Wars: Mexico, though.
The Premier Athletes have a good promo, but they’re just getting sadder as a team if they have to keep “expunging” losses from their record as if that makes them winners. Frat House has a good promo to set up the Six Man Tag, and if ROH wasn’t such an afterthought, I’d love if they explored what Preston Vance said. He claims he never liked Dark Order, hates them all now, but what if leaving Dark Order, joining LFI, leaving LFI, and now forming the Frat House is all Vance grieving Mr. Brodie? He doesn’t have to rejoin Dark Order, he just has to come to terms with why he’s actually being so awful to his old friends and maybe turn Frat House around into Faces.
And very good 8 Man Tag main event, everybody looking good even though it was a rather short match. Good win for the Faces to keep Top Flight afloat and to get The Kingdom, or in this case #OGK, back on track. I would think Dustin & Sammy make quick work of the Premier Athletes, but maybe if we can get three or four teams in one match, that’d be a way to protect Dustin & Sammy while crowning new champions.
My Score: 8.7/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!