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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (6/11/18)

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Is Raw giving away a Money in the Bank match for free!?

Raw goes hard before Money in the Bank! The Big Dog and the Modern Day Maharaja will have a match BEFORE their MITB match! Will Mahal use this opportunity to take Roman Reigns out before the PPV? Plus, two Fatal 4 Ways, featuring all of Raw’s MITB match representatives! That is, if Natalya and Alexa Bliss can compete.

 

All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Women’s Fatal 4 Way: Ember Moon VS Sasha Banks VS Natalya VS Alexa Bliss; Natalya wins.
  • Breezango VS Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre; Ziggler & McIntyre win.
  • Roman Reigns VS Jinder Mahal Sunil Singh; Roman wins.
  • The B Team VS Heath Slater & Rhyno; The B Team wins.
  • Bayley VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad; Ruby wins.
  • Curt Hawkins VS No Way Jose; Jose wins.
  • Men’s Fatal 4 Way: Braun Strowman VS Finn Balor VS Kevin Owens VS Bobby Roode; Strowman wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Raw opens with ladders!

Little Rock has all eight superstars competing this Sunday in their respective Men’s and Women’s Money in the Bank matches. The Monster Among Men, the GLORIOUS One, the Extraordinary Man, the Prizefighter, as well as the Goddess, War Goddess, Queen of Harts and Boss all wait as Raw GM Kurt Angle heads to the ring!

Angle reminds us that MITB is Sunday, on the WWE Network. For the first time ever, the matches will be co-branded 4v4. It is one of the most grueling matches in WWE history, testing you mentally, physically and emotionally, but with an amazing reward. The winners can cash-in anywhere at anytime for a title match. But then CONSTABLE Baron Corbin, sporting a new look, arrives.

The Lone Wolf, as appointed by Stephanie McMahon, lets us know that as Stephanie’s representative, he just wants to ensure Raw runs smoothly tonight. As the GM, Angle would love for those contracts to come to Raw. And if they don’t, Stephanie will be disappointed. We don’t want to disappoint Stephanie now, do we? Alexa Bliss says that despite her injury, she will fight through the pain and win. Sasha Banks speaks up, wanting to know what hurts. Alexa’s shoulder…? But then, weren’t you limping? Alexa can hurt in multiple places! Ember Moon says it won’t matter, Alexa will be real sore after losing.

Sasha and Ember argue, but Angle wants them to calm down. He brings up that Natalya can compete, but is she sure she can be in a ladder match? Natty says she is, because she is ready to win a shot against her friend and soon-to-be Raw WOmen’s Champion, Ronda Rousey. Sasha says Natty’s right, Ronda can win. But Sasha’s gonna be Ms. MITB. Kevin Owens speaks up, saying Angle is right about these ladders. But this isn’t fair, Strowman is so tall! Is the briefcase going to be up higher for Strowman’s sake? Roode asks if Kevin wants that briefcase lowered for his sake. Yes that’s a great idea!

Angle says the briefcases are all the same height for everyone. Kevin complains, then kisses up to Corbin. Strowman wants to quit this squabbling and do something about Kevin! Kevin wants to make Stephanie proud but he’s being threatened. Strowman doesn’t make threats, he makes promises. Strowman vows to shut Kevin up, climb up and take the contract to cash-in on Lesnar! The men start arguing, so Alexa SHRIEKS to stop them all. “Y’all need to calm down.” THis is like the Real Housewives of WWE. Besides, Alexa is confident she and her Mixed Match Challenge partner will win.

How cute, Alexa. But Sasha feels her MMC partner will win. Finn thanks Sasha for that vote of confidence, and returns the favor. They all argue again, and now Strowman ROARS, “ENOUGH!” Sunday, someone will #GetTheseHands! The Monster Among Men has spoken, but will even he be able to win when there are a total of eight top tier superstars in the ladder matches?

 

Women’s Fatal 4 Way: Ember Moon VS Sasha Banks VS Natalya VS Alexa Bliss!

The Queen of Harts has recovered from her leg injury last week, and Lil’ Ms. Bliss has “recovered” from hers, but will those be points to exploit for the Boss and Prophecy of Flame?

The bell rings and all four women look up to the prize in the sky. Sasha taunts Alexa about the “bad leg”, then they all close in. Alexa kicks Natty then throws Sasha into Ember. Alexa SLAPS Ember, then throws Natty out. The fans cheer for the sassy Five Foot Fury, but Ember shoves her away. Alexa crossbodies, but Ember catches her for the Fall Away Slam! Ember kips up, then glares at Alexa. Alexa runs away, but bumps into Sasha. She’s cornered, so she runs away, only to run into Natty! Natty throws Alexa into barriers by her hair! Natty joins Ember and Sasha, and the three circle around.

They approach, Ember headlocks but Natty powers out. Ember makes it through the double hip toss to dropkick Natty! She dodges Sasha, crucifix pin, ONE. Sasha returns it, ONE, but then takedown to jackknife. ONE, and so Sasha wheelbarrows. Natty holds her up, but Sasha dropkicks Ember away to roll Natty. TWO, to Natty’s cover, TWO. Natty runs Ember over with a clothesline! Fans fire up for the Queen of Harts as she circles with Sasha. Sasha goes after the bad leg, then snapmares Natty into a low Meteora. Cover, TWO, but she’s right back on Natty with an arm wrench. Natty rolls and flips to wrench Sasha down. Fans rally while Sasha endures. Sasha gets up and pushes Natty back. She breaks free, but misses Natty to end up in the rebound.

Sasha breaks out and catches the kick to give the knee, only for Natty to get a takedown! Natty wants the Sharpshooter but Sasha won’t let her. Sasha fights Natty but Natty keeps going, only for Sasha to shove her all the way out. Ember returns, roll-up, TWO. Ember swings but reverses the whip, Sasha goes up but Ember throws her off. Sasha hits back from the apron, then climbs up, to DIVE onto Natty! But then Ember builds speed to DIVE!

Ember barrels right into Sasha and into barriers! She drags Sasha up and into the ring, but Alexa runs in for that killer right! Alexa covers Sasha, TWO! The Fatal 4 Way is fast and furious while we go to break.

Raw returns and Natty endures a leg stretch from Alexa. Ember and Sasha stir on the outside while Alexa shrieks for Natty to quit. Natty endures while Ember drags herself up. Natty fights Alexa off, but then a dragon screw brings her back down. Ember returns but runs into another stiff right from the sassy Goddess. Alexa goes after the leg again, dropping elbows and yanking at it. Natty kicks her again, but Alexa makes her pay for it. Alexa kicks her leg out, then puts the leg on the rope to wrench it. Natty holds the ropes but Alexa drags her off to go back to the stretch. Natty rolls her off, cover, TWO. Alexa slips out of the scoop to kick out the leg! But Sasha returns to rally with lariats! Sasha blocks the kick to give the knee!

Sasha runs into the corner but is put on the apron. Alexa goes to hit Sasha down but Sasha knees her away, to then hit a swinging Meteora! Cover, TWO! One former Raw Women’s Champion is surprised by the other, but then Ember crossbodies in on them both! Ember kicks away on Sasha, then runs into the corner. Sasha turns things around but Ember counters, tornado snap suplex! Cover, but Alexa breaks it. Ember glares at Alexa and powers her into a corner for shoulders. Alexa kicks Ember away, sunset flip powerbomb, but Meteora from Sasha! TWO, and all the women are down as we go picture in picture. Alexa, Sasha and Ember all catch their breath on the mat while Natty is somewhere outside. Sasha rolls after Alexa as she rolls away. Ember comes over and it’s a triple brawl as we return to single picture.

Ember and Sasha work together to put Alexa up top. They climb up together, but then Natty returns! It’s a double powerbomb! Alexa slips out and Natty backs off with her bad leg. Alexa stands, and Twisted Bliss into knees! They’re all down again while we go to break.

Raw returns again, and Alexa dodges Ssaha to give her a backbreaker. Cover, TWO, and Alexa grows frustrated. She drags Sasha up but Ssaha hits the backstabber! Into Bank Statement crossface! Alexa flails, endures, but Natty breaks it up with a stomp! Natty hits a 2-for-1 on the dropkick, but that leg is slowing her down. She drags Alexa up and out, to then hobble over to Sasha. Natty wants the Sharpshooter, and gets it! Sasha endures, but Ember SUPERKICKS Natty in the back! The hold breaks and Sasha rolls away, then Ember puts Natty in a corner. Ember fires up, runs in, and hits the handspring elbow. She puts Natty down, then climbs up. Natty gets up, ECLIPSE!!

Cover, but Alexa throws Ember only for Ember to throw her. Alexa drags her out and the goddesses of Raw brawl. Alexa puts Ember into steps! Cover on Natty, Sasha breaks it! Sasha saves the match, and fans know “This is Awesome!” The Boss stands while Natty writhes and Alexa stirs. Alexa swings but misses, only to elbow Sasha back. Sasha wants another backstabber but Alexa hotshots her thne throws her out! Natty rolls Alexa, into Sharpshooter! Alexa shrieks, and taps! Natty wins!

Winner: Natalya, by submission

The former SmackDown Women’s Champion wins, because it’s about the timing and the toughness. Natty shows she can do both, but can she do it when ladders and four other women are involved?

 

Kevin Owens confronts Finn Balor.

He offers olives. Like, an olive branch. What does he want? Kevin knows the Fatal 4 Way got chaotic for the women, but says the men need a plan. Or is Finn still upset about last week? Kevin can’t let that happen again this week. They’re both competitors, but they’r both former Universal Champions. And neither of them got a proper rematch. What if Strowman wins? What if Strowman succeeds? He could be holding that title, their title, forever. Finn can’t beat Strowman and Kevin would need a lot of effort to. What’s his point? They need to work together, as well as Roode, to eliminate Strowman. Tonight can be every man against monster. Kevin leaves Finn to think on that. Will Finn accept this alliance?

 

Breezango VS Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre!

The Fashion Police are in Little Rock, but the Show-Off and Scottish Stud are planning to make them pay for the early elimination in last week’s Tag Team Battle Royal.

McIntyre glares daggers into Breezango, but it’s Ziggler who starts, and he starts fast on Prince Pretty. They’ve had issue in the past, but now it’s even more aggressive as Ziggler grinds his boot on Breeze’s face. Ziggler then grinds Breeze’s face into the ropes. Ziggler and Breeze brawl, but Ziggler kicks low and drops the elbow. Cover, TWO, but Ziggler keeps Breeze away from Fandango. McIntyre tags in and stomps away on Breeze. McIntyre rips Breeze’s shirt off to chop his bare chest! He doesn’t stop as he stomps on Breeze more. Tag to Ziggler, then another chop. McIntyre wants Ziggler to finish this, and Ziggler taunts Fandango as he drags Breeze back up. The referee keeps Fandango back, and Ziggler toys with Breeze. Breeze enziguris Ziggler! Both men are down, hot tags!

Fandango runs out and chops, but McIntyre puts him in a corner. McIntyre misses and Fandango chops more. Fandango ends up on the apron but climbs up. Ziggler distracts and McIntyre trips him up. Breeze leaps but is caught and gut wrenched into a powerbomb ONTO Fandango! McIntyre tags Ziggler, and they finish it with a SUPERKICK to Breeze. Then for Fandango, the Claymore ZigZag!! Cover, Ziggler & McIntyre win!

Winners: Ziggler & McIntyre, Ziggler pinning

The “D&D Train” is rolling on, and it doesn’t look like anyone can stop them. Will Ziggler & McIntyre take the show by force, and then take the titles the same way?

Ziggler & McIntyre speak.

“Last week, there was a tag team battle royal and that was nothing more than a fluke.” They’re over it, so get over it. This is proof, Exhibit A & B, the Fashion Police. Some question their guts, their skills, their alliance. “Bad move!” This isn’t just hype, so every tag team on Raw, even the champions, “take a good look! Because the show starts and ends right here! This is your future.” Ziggler & McIntyre hold this show in their hands, and vow to SAVE it by taking out every other team.

 

Backstage interview with Roman Reigns.

The Big Dog faces Jinder Mahal now, but will also face him again at MITB. Is he surprised? No, because Mahal is an idiot. The fact Roman isn’t in the MITB ladder match is because of Mahal. Roman will not be able to cash in on Lesnar and take back what is “legitimately” his. Roman makes this clear: everything coming is not free, Mahal earned this whooping. He’s giving Mahal his receipt, “paid in full.” Win or lose, will either man be fit to compete again at MITB this Sunday?

 

Roman Reigns VS Jinder Mahal!

When a grudge is this personal, why wait another week? MITB comes a bit early, but will it be a one-time-only?

Before the match, Mahal speaks while Little Rock boos. “I challenged Roman Reigns to a match tonight to prove a point: He’s not nearly as unstoppable as he thinks.” Roman may be a Grand Slam Champion that’s main-evented Wrestlemania, “but the winds are changing.” Mahal feels it, and sees what we don’t. At MITB, Mahal envisions Roman suffering, unable to keep up. Roman’s eyes will show defeat after he takes Khallas after Khallas. Mahal sees his hand raised over the “exposed” Roman. But then Roman comes out to get this match started!

Mahal grins at Roman, he knows he’s ready to have this match. Mahal knows Roman blames Mahal for not being part of the MITB Ladder Match. But it’s Roman’s own failures that cloud his judgment. Oh, did Roman think this match was with Mahal? No, the challenge wasn’t for facing Mahal. The challenge is for another great Indian, “a man who is fearless, who stands shoulders above all competition.” Yes, Roman’s opponent is… The Great SUNIL SINGH! Sunil doesn’t seem to remember that part of the plan.

The bell rings, and Sunil pleads with Mahal. Mahal pumps Sunil up, but he’s just a lamb to the slaughter. Roman uppercuts Mahal! Sunil is all alone now, and Roman grins as he whips him into a SUPERMAN PUNCH! Roman fires up, laughs at Mahal, then lets out the howl. SPEAR! Cover, Roman wins!

Winner: Roman, by pinfall

But Mahal goes after Roman right away! KHALLAS!

Mahal sacrificed his pawn so that he could get the drop on his enemy. Will Mahal pay for the bait and switch come Sunday?

 

The B Team VS Heath Slater & Rhyno!

The “Best” Team is set to face the Deleters of Worlds for the Raw Tag Team Championships, but they’ll test themselves in a match against the inaugural SmackDown Tag Team Champions. These four men were the final two teams in last week’s battle royal, but that’s far from a normal match. Will Axel & Bo stay “undefeated” going into their match with Bray Wyatt & WOKEN Matt Hardy?

The bell rings and Axel starts with Slater. Slater fires off on Axel, Axel powers out of the headlock, but Slater runs Axel over. Axel clubs Slater back, then whips, but Slater comes back with forearms. Slater hits Bo for good measure, but Axel powers Slater to a corner. Bo tags in, and the B Team mugs Slater in the corner. Axel backs off while BO reels Slater into an STO. Cover, TWO, so Bo drops many knees. Cover, TWO, but Bo keeps on Slater with a chinlock. Rhyno and the fans rally and Slater fights out with a jawbreaker. Slater brings Bo over but Bo whips him away. Bo hits Rhyno, then bumps him off buckles. Slater dodges Bo but Axel tags in. Axel ducks the kick but not hte punches. Slater sees Bo coming, but Bo slips out, B Team neckbreaker!

Cover, The B Team wins!

Winners: The B Team (Axel & Bo), Axel pinning

They are still “undefeated”, and celebrate like they’ve already won the titles. But the champions appear via titantron, and applaud for their future opponents. “This jovial jamboree” that they partake in is… WONDERFUL~! Ye-e-e-e-es! Delightful~! Marvelous~! But they’re here. Yes, the Deleters of Worlds appear on stage. “Well done, you Obsolete Mules!” The B Team wants to prove themselves worthy of the titles. But beware, for their are omniscient~! “Just look around you, man.” The Woken surround you. The fireflies surround you. And they are always watching. Bray knows that Bo & Axel are burning up like the River Styx. That’s fear, and it reminds them that they bought the ticket, and now must ride the ride, ye-e-e-e-es. The Obnoxious Ants will be eaten, and deleted! The Yin-Yang of the Raw Tag Team Division has delivered an ominous ultimatum. Will the B Team remain undefeated and un-deleted?!

 

Elias speaks.

The Drifter says tonight’s performance will be a struggle. he’s not used to performing in front of Arkansas hillbillies. Elias will make his way out to the ring after the break.

“Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.”

The Drifter has made his way to the ring, but has a mixed reaction from Little Rock. He plays his guitar and that gets more fans on his side. Elias wants them to remember the moment, because they are seeing a “once in a lifetime” performer live, and just moments before he becomes Intercontinental Champion. Seth Rollins will learn that WWE really stands for “WALK WITH ELIAS!” But other fans chant “Burn It Down!” in support of the Architect. As always, Elias asks the fans silence phones, hold applause, and for their own sake, shut mouths.

Elias plays again, singing “He’s the Architect, but he tells us to Burn it Down. Make up your damn mind, Seth, those are the worst nicknames around. Seth Freakin’ Rollins, am I supposed to think that cool? And I get it, you do Crossfit, so I know that you’re a tool.” Seth is void of talent and is a disgrace to Monday Night Raw, but he might even have been born in this “toilet” known as Arkansas. Seth will squeal like a pig, and walking with Elias is something to fear. But y’know what? Elias wasn’t going to, but he’s got something to show us all. He moves out of the spotlight to bring out a specially painted guitar for when Elias becomes IC Champion. John Mayer gave him that. They’re good friends.

This custom Fender, a thing of beauty. Elias won’t perform another song, which the fans like to hear. But next week, when Elias returns, he’ll play the greatest song yet with this guitar and that title. But speaking of, here comes Seth Rollins! The Architect rushes the ring but Elias is right on him! But Rollins sends Elias out with a hard bump on the apron. Rollins is fuming, and shouts for Elias to get some guts! Two weeks with a sneak attack guitar smash, for what? Making a name for himself? Rollins ain’t that hard to find. Rollins is in the same spot every Monday: the middle of the ring, with the IC title on his shoulder, begging for a fight. All Elias had to do was ask.

But the worst part? Rollins wanted to like Elias. Elias could do it all, from the spotlight to the songs to the guitars. Guitars… Rollins sees that custom Fender… Well this guitar… Elias tries to get Rollins to stop, and save it for Sunday. Rollins wants a closer look at the Fender. He picks it up, and “you weren’t lying, this is really, really nice.” Did the fans get a good look? Look at the craftsmanship. This should go to someone in Little Rock as part of a charity auction! Any takers? So many fans want it, but so does Elias. This is from Elias’ friend, John Mayer, right? Rollins wants to be very careful with it. He sets it down, and fans want him to smash it, but it’s so well-made. Rollins fakes a stomp, and Elias panics.

Elias begs Rollins wait for Sunday, but fans want him to smash it! Rollins knows he can’t play instruments, but he does know a song that’s three words long. And it usually happens when he taps his foot. So if Arkansas is willing to help out… “Burn it Down! Burn it Down!” That’s the one. CURB STOMP ON THE GUITAR!

Elias is seething while Rollins gets himself some payback. Will Elias suffer more than just property damage at MITB?

 

Kevin Owens talks with Bobby Roode.

Seeing Seth Rollins smash that guitar, it reminds Kevin of Braun smashing the ladder like it was nothing. Roode is lucky to be standing. What does Kevin want? What’s best for everyone. Roode and Finn can’t beat Strowman alone, and not even Kevin can. If Strowman becomes Mr. MITB, that’s bad. They need to stop him. Therefore, tonight, a three-man alliance. Either Roode admits Kevin is right, or he goes it alone and ends up like the ladder. “It’s your call. Nice robe.” Roode also contemplates this recruitment pitch. Will Kevin get the GLORIOUS One on his side?

 

Bayley VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad!

The Huggable One is already in the ring while the Squad wreaks a bit of good wholesome havoc backstage. Can Bayley survive the Riott all alone? Or will the Squad get revenge for those eliminations in the Women’s Gauntlet match?

The bell rings and Bayley is wary of Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan. Bayley and Ruby circle while Liv & Sarah start the drums, and Ruby knocks Bayley down. Ruby clubs away on Bayley while Liv & Sarah taunt her. Ruby bends Bayley back against the bottom rope, then stalks her to a corner. The ref reprimands Ruby as she pulls Bayley’s hair. Ruby pie-faces Bayley, then puts her in another corner. Ruby throws forearms and kicks, but fans cheer Bayley. Bayley boots Ruby away, then rolls into a takedown! Bayely throws hands, then clubs Ruby. Ruby puts her in a corner, then fires off body shots, but Bayley turns it around.

Ruby elbows Bayley away, then drags Bayley up for a whip. Bayley reverses, Ruby kicks her away, but Bayley hits the Thesz Press! Bayley throws more hands, covers, TWO. The former Raw Women’s Champion drags Ruby up and into a corner, then to another. Bayley does it a third time, then drags Ruby away to whip her in hard. Bayley hits a bulldog! She goes to a corner and hops up, for the flying elbow! Ruby rolls out and the Squad regroups with their leader. Bayley waits, but then slips out around the side for a daredevil dropkick! She doesn’t have quite enough, but she still manages to push Ruby into the LED, then saido suplex Ruby down! Ruby writhes while we go to break.

Raw returns, and Ruby wrenches Bayley back with a grounded keylock. Ruby screams for Bayley to give up, but the Huggable One refuses. Fans rally up, and Bayley powers up to fight out. Bayley throws Ruby, then dropkicks the legs out. She knees ruby to ropes, then dodges to send her into a corner. Ruby grabs Bayley with Deadly Nightshade! Cover, TWO, and Ruby grows frustrated. Ruby keeps on Bayley and those bad shoulders while we go picture in picture to plug the PPV. Bayley endures the wrenching and the grinding as Ruby digs a knee in while pulling on that arm. Ruby bends that arm and pulls the wrist, but fans rally for Bayley as we go single picture. Bayley gets up while Ruby chicken wings and thrashes. Bayley picks Ruby up like a backpack to back her to the ropes. They hit buckles, but Ruby holds on.

Bayley tries again, and snapmares Ruby off. Ruby runs back in, but Bayley snake eyes and back elbows! Bayley rolls, wacky waving arms to a big knee strike. Ruby goes down while Bayley climbs up. Bayley aims, for the Macho Elbow! It misses! Ruby covers, TWO! The Squad is shocked that Bayley survived her crash and burn. Ruby drags Bayley up again, then wrenches the arm, but Bayley rolls her up! TWO, and Bayley goes to the apron. She slides back in to roll Ruby, TWO, so Ruby high stacks. TWO, and Bayley rocks Ruby with a knee. Ruby shakes the cobwebs out, but Bayley is ready. Liv distracts, and Sarah distracts, then Ruby throws Bayley into the post! Then, Riott Kick! Cover, Ruby wins!

Winner: Ruby, by pinfall

The Squad helps their leader get the W. But they’re not done with Bayley, as they use face paint to scribble and write all over Bayley. They leave a big letter R on Bayley’s belly before knocking her out with a right. Will the Squad continue to #StartaRiott on Raw?

 

Ronda Rousey talks with Natalya backstage.

Natty warns Rousey that Nia Jax might try something. Ronda thanks Natty for the advice. The Baddest Woman and the Irresistible Force meet face to face, after the break.

Jonathan Coachman presides over this coming Face-to-Face.

This Sunday, it will be one of the biggest nights in Raw Women’s Division history as Nia Jax defends her title against Ronda Rousey. But before that, they will meet again here and now. Coach introduces the challenger, “Rowdy” Ronda!

Ronda appears and takes her seat, then Coach introduces the champion, Nia Jax!

Nia joins Ronda and Coach in the ring, and Coach knows that the next time they meet, the title is on the line.

What does the champion say about this friendly rivalry become an almost angry one? Nia isn’t surprised. Both women are very competitive. Things get tense when it comes to seeing who is best. Nia was just pushing some buttons. Ronda is beautiful, talented and popular, “she’s still very new in the WWE.” Ronda’s success was form Strike Force and UFC, which have very different rules. WWE allows things MMA doesn’t, like headbutts, slaps, back strikes, hair pulling, and more. Nia has had all those done to her and has done those to others. Come Sunday, Nia will show Ronda exactly what she means. Ronda responds: she doesn’t plan, she improvises. And Ronda will improvise Nia’s arm off. Coach reminds Ronda she’s only had one match. True, but Ronda earned that win.

Nia does give Ronda credit. That one match was impressive. But it was a tag match, against a part-timer. Ronda has never had a singles match, nor a title match, and no offense, Nia’s been grinding in WWE for years. Nia is not Stephanie, she’s THE Raw Women’s Champion. And yet Ronda wants to take Nia’s arm? Nia will take Ronda’s rep. “Because when I’m done with you, they’re gonna call me the Baddest Woman on the Planet.” Nia knows she’s gonna win. It’s why she challenged Ronda at all. Because at the end of the day, Ronda’s not ready.

Ronda grins and laughs as she stands up. “Not ready?” Ronda was told that when she was 17 and made the Olympics team. And she was told that again when she went after the Strike Force title after only four fights, but she still won. And she got it again when she main-evented with record attendance. Everyone thought she wasn’t ready for UFC, but now she’s a UFC hall of famer! “I am Ronda Rousey, and I was born ready!” Ronda takes off the jacket, and now Nia stands. Nia shows Ronda the belt, then goes for a punch! Ronda blocks it! But Nia headbutts Ronda down! Nia drags Ronda up by her ponytail, but Ronda catches Nia into the armbar!

Nia holds on tight, but Ronda keeps trying. The champ stands up and deadlifts her challenger, but Ronda wrangles Nia back down. Nia taps!! Ronda lets Nia go, having proved her point. Can Ronda do that all over again on Sunday to become the new Raw Women’s Champion?

 

Curt Hawkins VS No Way Jose!

The Fact Checker, the Superstar Factory, the History-Making Machine did indeed make history: he is the man of 200 consecutive losses. Will Hawkins himself finally #FacetheFacts that he’s not cut out for Raw anymore?

Hawkins’ music hits, but he doesn’t come out. Jose is confused, as is the referee. When Hawkins doesn’t come out the second time, the bell rings and it is now a ring count. The count reaches 5, but Hawkins doesn’t appear. But then he appears from the CROWD! He rolls Jose, TWO, Fastball Special!

Cover, Jose wins!

Winner: Jose, by pinfall

A clever idea from Hawkins, but it wasn’t enough. Hawkins is now Mr. 201, will he ever get out from under the losing streak?

 

Finn talks with Roode.

They’ve both talked with Kevin. Do they trust Kevin? Nope. But who do they trust? The devil they now, or the Monster Among Men? Roode feels they should work with Kevin at first, but they need to keep their eyes on him, too. Finn agrees, he’ll keep an eye on Kevin, and one on Roode.

 

WWE and Raw look closer at Katie Millar.

Katie is a powerlifter in the coming Special Olympics games. She never knew she was so strong. The Special Olympics introduced her to new people and friends, including Coach Tim. Katie has improved in her deadlifts, and has improved her confidence. The confidence boost helped her get a job, and helps her be happy in life. The Seattle Games are coming, so cheer Katie and the other athletes on as they #GoForGold!

 

Renee Young hosts a Raw Obstacle Course.

First up, Sami Zayn, who concocted this idea.

But why did he decide to challenge Bobby Lashley to this? All Sami did was ask if Lashley was actually an American soldier. Fans took offense then and then take offense now. Sami speaks on how everyone came to defend Lashley, but there’s no way to verify any of that. Lashley can prove it, if he does this Army based obstacle course faster than Sami. Sami explains piece by piece what you have to do. First, the tire flip, but it’s a 225 lbs. tractor tire. Then there’s the low crawls, where Lashley will fail because he’s heavy while Sami is lean. Then there’s the “Three Sisters” wall jump, from Kathy to Francis to the “Great Wall of Jessica.” Fourth is the Monkey Bars, easy enough, but in Sami’s opinion, Lashley will be too tired to properly swing.

And if by some miracle he makes it past that, it’s the dreaded rope climb! Pretty hard to climb this rope at 100%, but Lashley will have to do it last to ring those bells and stop the timer. From what Sami is told, the Green Berets can do this in roughly two minutes. Sami did a test run and came in at 90 seconds. That’s without a warm-up and with the bad hand crushed by Lashley, as well as no motivation. But imagine how he’ll do with everyone cheering him on! And when Sami wins the obstacle course challenge, the victory will be dedicated to the real best country: Canada. With that, Renee introduces Lashley.

What is Lashley’s reaction to this challenge? Everyone is tired of listening to Sami. Lashley will beat him at this obstacle course, then beat him down at MITB. A coin toss will decide who goes first. Sami wants to keep Lashley at a safe distance. Sami trusts Renee with the coins. Heads it’s Lashley, Tails it’s Sami. Heads, go Bobby Lashley. Fans fire up, and Lashley sets up by the tire. Sami wants the fans to shut up so he can count down the start. No cheating, no head starts! Does Lashley understand? Three… Two… One, GO.

Lashley flips the tire twice, runs down the ramp, crawls real low, then hops the walls. He clears the third wall at 20 seconds and hits the monkey bars with ease. He even shows off a pull-up first. Then Lashley hits the ropes, and without using legs, he hits the bells at 48 seconds! But then Sami ambushes Lashley! This was never about an obstacle course! Sami throws Lashley into the frames, then HELLUVA KICKS Lashley down. He even swings away on the rope. Fans boo while Sami celebrates and talks trash. The referees keep Sami away from Lashley, but Sami grins all the way to the back. Fans chant ‘USA! USA!” in support of Lashley, will he get revenge on Sami on Sunday?

 

Kevin talks strategy with Finn and Roode.

What makes him think they agreed to anything? But then Strowman comes by, and dares them to go 3v1 against him. Strowman roars, and that alone scares them a bit. The Fatal 4 Way is up next, will Strowman leave three top tier superstars down and out before MITB? Or will Kevin’s “plan” work out?

Men’s Fatal 4 Way: Braun Strowman VS Finn Balor VS Kevin Owens VS Bobby Roode!

The Monster Among Men, the Extraordinary Man, the Prizefighter and the GLORIOUS One will all compete in the Men’s MITB ladder match along with The Miz, Samoa Joe, Rusev and a member of the New Day. This main event is simply an appetizer for that main event, who will be in pole position for Raw after tonight?

The bell rings, and things are tense as Strowman waits for the alliance to make a move. Finn and Roode hesitate, not wanting Kevin to take advantage, but Kevin just cowers in the corner. Strowman roars and barrels through to ram Kevin into the corner! Then he swats Finn and Roode down with ease. Kevin runs out but gets swatted down, too. Strowman throws Roode across the way, then clubs Finn down. Strowman hits Kevin, then whips him to ropes. Kevin holds on and bails out, as do Roode and Finn. This unofficial handicap match is going Strowman’s way while we go to one more break.

Raw returns once more, and Strowman waits for the others to return. Kevin, Finn and Roode flank Strowman and surround him. They club and kick away but Strowman is strong. They ram him into a corner and ram in shoulders and kicks. Kevin taunts Strowman, “Who’s the Monster now?” Finn and Roode throw hands and chops, then Kevin rams in his shoulder. Strowman stays standing but the assault keeps going. Kevin runs in, but then Strowman shoves him down! Strowman swats Roode and side slams Finn! Finn rolls away, but Strowman goes after Roode. Kevin goes after Strowman, but it doesn’t bother Strowman at all. Strowman clubs Roode down, then scares Kevin out of the ring. Kevin pleads while Strowman pursues, but Finn flies in with a dropkick. The alliance keeps on Strowman with more clubbing forearms, but Strowman explodes out!

Strowman glares at the ring leader and pursues Kevin up the ring and to the backstage area. Finn and Roode wait, and Strowman tosses Kevin back out! Strowman drags Kevin up by his ear, then headbutts him. Kevin staggers away, but in come Finn and Roode, only for Strowman to smack them away with uppercuts. Strowman grabs Kevin, and throws him into the LED wall. The Monster dominates all three men, then goes to a ladder and brings it down. Strowman goes to the announce desk, and Coach, Cole and Graves run away. Strowman clears the table, then glares back at the trio. He storms over and grabs Kevin, hauling him up onto his shoulder. But Roode uses a ladder as a batternig ram. He and Finn work together and hit Strowman again.

Roode and Finn herd Strowman to the desk, and they keep going on him with clubbing forearms. Kevin positions a standing ladder nearby, and they place Strowman on the desk. Roode and Finn hold the ladder still for Kevin to climb. Kevin aims and… SUPER FROG SPLASH!! Kevin decimates Strowman and the desk!! Raw goes to one final break.

Raw is back once again, and the match has returned to the ring. With Strowman and Kevin out, Roode and Finn go 1v1. Roode rams knees into Finn’s arm while referees check on Strowman and Kevin. Finn endures as Roode grinds his own elbow into Finn’s. Roode pulls on the arm, but Finn gets up. Roode wrenches but Finn hits back, repeat. Finn fires more forearms, Roode shoves him and elbows him, but the PELE takes Roode down. Everyone is down all over the arena, while we go picture in picture. Finn and Roode stir in the ring, and head for opposite corners. Finn grits his teeth as he stands up and aims at Roode. Roode stands while we go single picture. Roode runs in but Finn dodges to chop. Finn whips but Roode reverses, only for Finn to run him over.

Finn gets the takedown, double stomps! Roode gets back to a corner, but Finn runs in for another chop. Finn whips Roode corner to corner, but runs into boots. Roode hops up but Finn kicks him down and out! Fans fire up, and Finn builds speed, only to run into Roode’s forearm. Roode hops up again, and hits the GLORIOUS Blockbuster. Cover, TWO! Roode and Finn slowly stand, still no Kevin or Strowman. Roode grabs Finn and brings him up, but Finn small packages, TWO. Finn gets up, Slingblade to Roode! Then the blasting dropkick hits Roode off buckles. Fans fire up and Finn climbs. Finn aims, but Kevin returns to knock him down. Finn stays standing while Kevin climbs, and Finn returns the favor. Fans fire up again as Finn tries, but Roode trips him up! Finn gets crotch’d on the crossbar.

Roode gets himself up, and then climbs to join Finn. He wants the superplex, but Finn resists. Kevin joins in, and makes it a Tower of Doom! But Kevin can’t cover, he’s too exhausted. All three men are down, but Kevin gets moving. Kevin gets himself to a corner, but Strowman is stirring! The Monster stands!? Kevin panics as he watches Strowman lumber his way over. Fans chant “Get These Hands!” but Finn runs to meet Strowman. Strowman rocks Finn with a right, then boots Roode. Kevin sees Strowman is coming for him, and runs away! Kevin goes to the crowd, but he stumbles and falls. Strowman drags Kevin up and back to the ring in a headlock. Strowman roars and clubs Kevin down. But then Strowman sees the others getting up.

Even with bad ribs, Strowman runs Finn over, then runs Roode over. Strowman is still going, and runs Kevin over! He puts Kevin in the ring, those ribs only slowing him down a moment or two. Strowman scoops Kevin but Roode bails him out. They get sandwiched in a corner, but Finn returns and swing kicks Strowman. Finn climbs, stomps to the back! Strowman falls to a knee, but Finn runs out, only to get run over again. Strowman’s ribs are aching, but he’s the only one standing. He hauls Finn up, but Kevin SUPERKICKS! Roode chop blocks, then Kevin SUPERKICKS again. Roode grabs Strowman, but Kevin rolls Roode! TWO, GLORIOUS Spinebuster! Finn hits the elbow drop DDT on Roode! SLINGBLADE to Finn! Finn hits his blasting dropkick! He climbs up! COUP DE GRACE!

Cover, but Roode breaks it. Roode throws Finn sideways into a post, then winds it up… GLORIOUS Pose, to GLORIOUS DDT! Cover, but Kevin breaks it up. Kevin throws Roode way out, then climbs up again. Kevin aims, FROG SPLASH! Cover, TWO?! Kevin cannot believe it. Strowman survives three powerful moves in a row? But fans know “This is Awesome”! Kevin rolls out to fetch a new ladder. He puts it in the ring, and uses it to go after Strowman’s ribs. Strowman somehow stays standing, and then grabs the ladder away from Kevin. He grabs Kevin by the throat, and Kevin shouts “I’m sorry!” as he takes the CHOKE SLAM! Strowman positions the ladder, picks Kevin up, MONSTER SLAM on the ladder! Cover, Strowman wins!

Winner: Strowman, by pinfall

Not even three men allied, using everything they had, was enough to stop this behemoth. Throw in SmackDown’s four, will that be enough to stop Strowman from becoming Mr. MONSTER in the Bank? Or will Strowman #GetTheseHands on the contract and begin the hunt for The Beast?

 


 

My Thoughts:

This here tonight, this is what a go-home for a PPV should be. The opening with everyone on ladders was a little cliche for MITB (or even TLC) but I enjoyed the integration of Mixed Match Challenge for Alexa & Strowman and Finn & Sasha. And while it was confusing as to why Alexa needed an entrance when all four women were already out there, that Fatal 4 opener more than made up for it. All four women shined, and I was happily surprised to see Natalya wins. Between this and Ronda getting one-up on Nia, I wonder if they’ll both win again, and then Natty turns Heel when she cashes in without warning, sparking their feud. Meanwhile, given McIntyre & Ziggler dominating, I those two might just go after all four men  in the title match and get themselves a shot sooner rather than later.

The one low point was Roman VS Mahal advertised for tonight. At first, I was hoping they’d get this match out of the way so more time could be given to the other matches. Instead, Mahal swerves, and will probably just cheat to win on Sunday. The Elias and Rollins segment was great, but I do feel a little bad that all the work that went into that custom paint job is for getting smashed. But in kayfabe, Elias deserved it, and I expect not even being upset will help him win against Rollins. Rollins is going to be on an amazing tear with that IC title this Summer, count on that. The Ronda-Nia face-to-face was great in itself, and with rumors of Rousey not sticking around as long as thought, that might mean she gets the title now just to check it off.

Poor Hawkins, he just can’t catch a break. Since he and now-bald Corbin don’t seem to be doing a program, I have no idea who Hawkins beats to finally break his bad streak. The obstacle course segment for Sami and Lashley was actually pretty good, but of course it was so Sami could attack Lashley. Their match at MITB will still be really great, so luckily there was some coherency to the build before the end. And WOW was the main event tonight worthy of a PPV in itself. The story was all there with Kevin getting the three non-monsters working together, but Strowman looks even stronger after winning. Kevin has a point, though: if Strowman wins MITB and then cashes in on Lesnar, he’s gonna have that belt a long time himself. But at least Strowman will show up every week when he does.

My Score: 8.5/10


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Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (4/26/24)

It’s Draft Day!

Published

on

And with the first overall pick of the 2024 WWE Draft, SmackDown selects…

The WWE Draft returns for 2024, the first four rounds being right here on Friday Night SmackDown! With champions protected, who ends up where to challenge them?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Rey Mysterio & Dragon Lee w/ Zelina Vega & Carlito VS Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo; Rey & Dragon win.
  • Bron Breakker VS Cedric Alexander; Bron wins.
  • WWE Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Naomi VS Tiffany Stratton; No Contest.
  • Cody Rhodes VS Carmelo Hayes; Cody wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Backstage interview with Paul Heyman.

Kayla Braxton is with the Wise Man and says that here on night one of the Draft, there are already rumors circulating, including those about The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns. Heyman will clarify these are not rumors regarding The Tribal Chief, Roman… Reigns. These are facts! Ladies and gentlemen, Your Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, has voluntarily withdrawn from eligibility for this year’s Draft. That is not a negative but a positive. Who built SmackDown since the Pandemic? Roman Reigns. Who is the biggest star in the entire industry? Roman Reigns. Why would Roman Reigns hog the number one draft pick spotlight when he won’t be returning in the immediate future?

Read into his words, Kayla, that is not what a real Tribal Chief would do. Instead now, the pressure is on Nick Aldis. Because if Roman Reigns isn’t the first draft pick, then who is? The first two picks make history in a brand new era. And Heyman doesn’t know about you, but he is intrigued. No Tribal Chief up for grabs, who gets their opportunity to shine in the spotlight?

 

SmackDown throws it to the NXT Performance Center.

Jackie Redmond says the emotion down here is palpable! There is excitement, hope, and a little bit of nerves. But for these NXT Superstars, tonight is the culmination of a lifetime of hard work, dedication, a little bit of luck and a whole lot of self-belief. It was just last year that the NEW WWE Tag Team Champion, Grayson Waller, was hoping his name would be called. And it is funny this is NXT, but time to buy a vowel, throw in an E! Who is next? We find out tonight! The draft pool is deep, who rises to the top of the list?

 

Corey Graves is in the ring.

Corey welcomes Cincinnati and all of us at home to night one of the 2024 WWE Draft. Understandably, the GMs have their hands full, so Corey will be moderating the contract signing for the WWE Championship match that takes place next Saturday for Backlash: France. Without further ado, it’s the #1 contender, The Phenomenal AJ Styles! Styles makes his entrance, taking a seat at the table on camera right. And now, the Undisputed WWE Champion, the American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes! Cincy fires up and sings along, “WHOA~ OH~!” as Cody makes his entrance and gets his pyro before joining everyone in the ring.

Styles looks over the contract, absolutely tuning out the fans going wild for “CODY! CODY!” Styles then gets the mic to say before he signs, he doesn’t know if we realize that we’ve got two Georgia boys about to mix it up for the first time, and for the biggest prize in the game. Styles understands why they boo, but they gotta know that he doesn’t respect LA Knight, LA Knight got under his skin. He accepts that. But that’s why Styles lost at Mania. But what happened? Styles got his composure back and realized that he is Phenomenal. Styles BEAT Knight to earn the right to face Cody Rhodes at Backlash.

Now unlike Knight, Styles does respect Cody. They hadn’t crossed paths yet, but they’ve been down the same roads. They had to prove themselves outside of the WWE. And Styles is willing to believe that the same man who gave him advice a long time ago gave Cody the same advice, on how to stand on their own two feet and be the men they are today. That man was The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes. The fans cheer for “DUSTY! DUSTY!” Styles learned a lot from Dusty. Styles gets a little emotional thinking about Dusty, he was a good man. Dusty taught Styles how to carry himself, and to carry the weight of a championship.

And Styles looks at this WWE Championship here. The weight of this isn’t just the leather and gold. And at Backlash, we see if Cody can carry it. Styles goes back to his table, signs the contract, and then hands it off to Corey. Corey brings that to Cody, and Cody picks up his mic. “So… Cincinnati…! Whadda we wanna talk about? Certainly, we can talk about respect. There is not a locker room on Earth that you’ll find where everyone in it, every single person, they all respect AJ Styles. Last week, I went on to say you are the modern day Excellence of Execution. I respect the roads that you have traveled down to get here, the parallel paths that perhaps you and I have.

“Mutual respect, much respect. But that respect goes by the wayside at Backlash. I can feel it in your words to a degree. You’ve been here before. And it seems you’re implying that I cannot carry the weight of that championship. Well, good thing the man who trained me not far from where I sit now used to tell me all the time, it’s not about winning the title, it’s about keeping it.” The fans cheer that. Cody says boy does he respect Styles’ familiarity with Cody’s last name. But when you put C O D Y in front of it on this paper, that means they’ve never touched before. That means Backlash is a level playing field.

That means no matter how Phenomenal Styles is, this isn’t a dream match for Cody. It’s a must-win! Cody signs while the fans cheer, and it is official! Cody even throws the pen to the crowd as a free souvenir. Cody then offers a handshake, and Styles says y’know what? It was a beautiful thing to see Cody #FInishTheStory and win the title. But it’s a shame that Cody’s title reign will end at Backlash. Styles still shakes Cody’s hand, and then walks away. Cody picks up the belt and holds it high, will he get to hold it high again in Lyon, France?

Triple H is here!

Just as Cody was on his way to the back, The Game makes his way out here! HHH raises Cody’s hand, then invites him over to the podium. HHH welcomes us to the first round of the 2024 WWE Draft. It is a night that changes the landscape of the WWE going into the future, and things are a bit different this year. As the GMs ponder their next steps, they have to understand it is about protecting the roster they have as it is making the roster they want. Meaning that when they use their picks, they have just as much of a chance gaining a superstar as they do losing one they already have.

HHH just felt that since champs are protected and Cody will be staying here on SmackDown, maybe Cody could help read the SmackDown picks and HHH can read the Raw picks. And since SmackDown goes first, Cody reads first. Cody takes the card to say that with the first pick of the 2024 WWE Draft, SmackDown selects… The E S T, Bianca Belair! The stongEST, fastEST, roughEST, toughEST stays on Friday nights! HHH reads that for the second pick of the 2024 WWE Draft, Raw selects… YEET! JEY USO! Monday nights will still have Main Event Jey Uso! And the fans “YEET!” Cody says for the third pick, SmackDown selects… NXT’s Carmelo Hayes!

The fans fire up as SmackDown manages to snag… HIM! The former NXT Champion makes history again by being the first NXT superstar to be chosen this high in the Draft! HHH says that’s a hell of a pick. But then the fourth and final pick of this first round, Raw selects… SETH! FREAKIN’! ROLLINS! It is still going to be Monday Night Rollins as the Visionary stays on the red brand! Cody and HHH shake hands, and then Melo makes his way out! Melo has the mic to say when they talk about who’s next up, about who’s the hottest out, they don’t call them “the hottest out,” they just call him “Carmelo Hayes.”

The fans chant “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” to remind Melo how he’s leaving NXT. Melo says okay, okay. But then to Cody Rhodes, ever since Cody won the title, he’s been talking about “If you aim for the king, you best not miss.” Well, funny how that works. Because when Melo shoots, Melo don’t miss. And as a first round draft pick, what better way to shoot his shot on SmackDown than to shoot it right at Cody? Melo leaves the mic with Cody but Cody picks it up to say, “Fortune certainly favors the bold, but I dunno. You folks don’t wanna see me in action tonight, do ya?” The fans go wild! Oh, but what if Cody forgot his gear?

Oh that’s right! He didn’t forget his gear! And this title right here, for Cody, means absolutely 100%, Melo’s on! They shake on it, and we’re about to see a huge first-time-ever showdown! But will this bold first move work out for… HIM?

 

Rey Mysterio & Dragon Lee w/ Zelina Vega & Carlito VS Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo!

The LWO is still not convinced Legado Del Fantasma had nothing to do with the beating that took the Boy Wonder out ahead of WrestleMania. Will the King of Lucha help get to the bottom of things? Or will Angel & “Berto” make it as easy as ABC, 1-2-3?

The teams sort out, Dragon runs up on Humberto but Humberto LARIATS him down! Humberto drags Dragon up, tears the shirt away and CHOPS! Humberto whips, Dragon ducks ‘n’ dodges to RANA! Humberto tumbles out, Dragon builds speed and FLIES! Direct hit and down goes Humberto! The fans fire up as Dragon pushes Humberto into the ring, goes up a corner, and then CROSSBODIES! Cover, TWO! Dragon facelocks to drag Humberto up, but Humberto wrenches out to CLUB Dragon down. Humberto waistlocks but Dragon throws elbows. Angel tags in as Humberto shoves Dragon. Dragon ducks but Angel holds ropes open, and Dragon tumbles to the floor!

The fans boo and LWO hurries to check on Dragon! Angel & Humberto just soak up the heat as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and both Dragon and Humberto are down! They crawl, hot tags to Angel and Rey! The fans fire up as Rey ducks ‘n’ dodges and tilt-o-whirl RANAS! Angel ends up in a corner, he puts Rey on the apron, but Rey ROCKS Angel! Rey goes up to SEATED SENTON! Rey keeps moving, wrenches and kicks, then hops on! CODE RED! Cover, Humberto breaks it! The fans boo but Humberto hauls Rey up. Rey fights and RANAS Humberto up and out! But Angelo kicks, scoops, but Rey slips free! Angelo kicks low, reels REy in, and underhooks, but Rey fights those to RANA Angel onto ropes! Rey dials it up to 619!

Tag to Dragon and he takes aim! Angel stands, into the tilt-o-whirl, PROJECT DRAGON!! Cover, LWO wins!

Winners: Rey Mysterio & Dragon Lee, by pinfall

Carlito and Zelina hug it out with the team, but then Santos Escobar & Elektra Lopez walk out here. Santos says whoa, whoa, whoa, hold that celebration. Because Santos is many things, but a liar is not one of them. And when Santos said he did NOT attack Dragon that night before Mania, he meant it. Elektra has been working for weeks to track down the security footage from that night. And Rey… Oh, Rey. What you’re about to see, you will find very, very interesting. The footage plays, and it was CARLITO!! Carlito throw Dragon around backstage! No one can believe it, because of how well Carlito fooled even Dragno.

Speaking of, Carlito RAMS Dragon into Rey, then hits a BACKSTABBER! Never has that move’s name been more fitting! Carlito runs away in a panic, and Rey stands back up in a rage! Santos says he told Rey that he was right all along. They were supposed to be family, and yet look how that turned out. How will the LWO recover from this shocking development?

 

Bron Breakker VS Cedric Alexander!

The Big Bad Booty Nephew has been making a case for himself ever since showing up on SmackDown, and he’s already bringing the straps down! Is he going to break PRIMED Alexander while also breaking match time records? Or will Cedric prove he’s too fly for Bron?

The bell rings and Cedric dodges Bron to CHOP and ROCK! Cedric whips, Bron reverses and Cedric handsprings, into a SPEAR!! Cover, Bron wins!

Winner: Bron Breakker, by pinfall

Well, hard to say if that’s an all-time fast match, but that was a fast match! QR Code stuff going on, but will we all see Bron take the world by storm?

 

Nick Aldis heads out.

And waiting is Tiffany Stratton. She asks if he saw what she did last week. Wait, of course he did. Because she is the Center of the Universe. She dropped Naomi and Bayley, where is her title match? Aldis tells Tiff to look at his watch. It is NOT set to #TiffyTime. And he was this close to sending her to the back of the line. But then someone convinced him otherwise, good for her. Tonight, she goes 1v1 with Naomi again, and the winner faces Bayley for the title at Backlash. Whose stupid idea was that?! Bayley says DING DONG, it was hers. It is a win-win situation here. If Naomi wins, she gets the match she got cheated out of.

And if Tiff wins, then she’ll find out when she attacks the Role Model. Tiff gasps as she has a #TiffanyEpiphany. Bayley should be ringside for that match so she can see Tiff do what Bayley couldn’t, and that’s beat Naomi. Tootles. Tiff leaves, but will the only thing she gets is to #FeelTheGlow?

 

Michelle McCool and Torrie Wilson are here!

One is a former WWE Women’s Champion, the other is a WWE Hall of Famer, but they’re both here to present Draft picks! Michelle says with the first pick of the second round, SmackDown selects… The Viper, Randy Orton! SmackDown will still have to watch out for an RKO outta nowhere! Torrie says that with the second pick of the second round, Raw selects… BRON BREAKKER! We just saw Bron make quick work of opponents here on SmackDown, but now he’s gonna be rampaging on Raw!

Michelle says that with the third pick of the second round, SmackDown selects… NIA JAX! The Irresistible Force may have to change targets from the Women’s World to the Undisputed Women’s title, but will she be unstoppable all the same? And with the fourth and final pick of this round, Raw selects… LIV MORGAN! The Revenge Tour will still be part of Monday nights, will we watch Liv rise to the top?

 

The Bloodline arrives backstage.

Paul Heyman is there to greet them and open the door to the SUV. He apologizes for not being faster about that, but Solo Sikoa asks The Bloodline if they’ve been drafted. Not yet. Then give Solo the details. Okay, well, Roman Reigns withdrew right before the show began, and then Solo keeps adding members, so no one really knows what they’re getting if they draft The Bloodline! Solo sighs, and here comes Tama Tonga. Heyman asks they be patient but Solo wants Heyman to repeat that for him. Heyman gets scared, but then KEVIN OWENS jumps in! Kevin fires off on Tama, security and refs rush in to stop it!

The Prizefighter wants Solo’s “MFT” to bring the fight like he did last week! Security still drags Kevin away, but will he get that fight he wants?

 

Kayla Braxton is on stage.

SmackDown returns and Kayla welcomes us back to the show. And please welcome out the first overall pick, Bianca Belair! The fans fire up as The EST walks out on stage, and Kayla congratulates her on being the first overall pick. But let’s talk Backlash. Breaking news, Bianca and Jade Cargill are going to challenge for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships, against the Kabuki Warriors. How satisfying would it be to dethrone them on the stage of this magnitude? Bianca says so satisfying. She really hopes Jade gets drafted to SmackDown because given all this history with Damage CTRL, all the partners by her side, Bianca has never been the one to finally end it with them.

For everything they’ve done to her and this division, Bianca feels Jade is the perfect woman to help her end this. Now, DMG CTRL is falling apart piece by piece, and that final piece is the tag titles. So once Bianca & Jade take the gold at Backlash, the Kabuki Warriors won’t even have a reason to come back to SmackDown. But wait, they’re here now! Asuka & Kairi walk out here and Kayla moves aside. The Empress of Tomorrow and the Pirate Princess taunt the EST, but here comes The Storm! Jade makes her way to stand right by Bianca’s side. The four shout and argue, but this will be settled on May 4th!

WHOA! Tama and Kevin are brawling their way out here! The ladies move aside so the gentlemen can brawl all the way down to ringside! Tama hits low, gets in the ring, but Kevin pursues! Kevin TACKLES Tama, but Solo CLOBBERS Kevin! The fans boo as The Bloodline beats Kevin down! The refs hurry out here but clearly Solo’s Bloodline won’t listen! Tama DECKS producers, DECKS guards, HEADBUTTS them, throws hands and even THROWS the guards! Tama and Solo beat Kevin down again, but here comes Randy Orton! The Viper is still on SmackDown and he’s still pals with Kevin, so here he comes!

Orton DECKS Tama, fires hands on Solo, then RK- NO, Solo gets free and gets away! Orton wants to pursue, almost runs Jamie Noble and refs over to do it, but the Bloodline has gotten away! The fans cheer Randy on, and KAevin even hugs him! But then Kevin and Randy try to give chase! Security stops this, when and where will we see #RKKO strike down Solo and Tama?

 

The Dudley Boyz are here!

The fans fire up as Bubba Ray & D-Von are both here for the next round of picks! Cincy chants for “E C DUB! E C DUB!” Bubba and D-Von look at the cards, it’s hard to read. So out come the glasses! Bubba says with the first pick of the third round of the 2024 WWE Draft, SmackDown selects… L A KNIGHT! YEAH!! The Mega Star stays on Fridays! D-Von says with the second pick of the third round, Raw selects… RICOCHET! Mondays still has the One and Only, is Ricochet going to bring that WWE Speed Championship home to Raw, too?

Bubba says with the third pick of the third round, SmackDown selects… THE BLOODLINE! That means Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga and Paul Heyman are staying right here on Friday nights. And D-Von says with the final pick of this round, Raw selects… SHEAMUS! The Celtic Warrior just got back, but he won’t have to worry about going anywhere else but Monday nights.

 

WWE Women’s Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Naomi VS Tiffany Stratton!

It’s time to run it back once again! The Glow got robbed by the Spoiled Rich Girl, but supposedly, it’s #TiffyTime. Will Naomi prove there’s no such time on the clock? Or will Bayley be the one feeling the Backlash over giving Tiffany one more chance?

The bell rings and Naomi hits a THESZ PRESS! Naomi rains down fists, Tiffy shoves her away and goes to ropes, but Naomi gets up in Tiff’s face. Naomi whips, Tiff holds ropes to bail out and fans boo. Naomi scowls, runs in and WRECKS Tiff with a dropkick! Naomi then gets Tiff up, SMACKS her off the apron, and then SMACKS her off it again! And again! Naomi puts Tiff in, goes up a corner, but Tiff gets under the jump! Naomi runs back up but Tiff YANKS her into ropes! Tiff runs to HIP ATTACK! Naomi sputters, Tiff scowls and drags Naomi up, to then put through ropes. But Naomi RAMS into Tiff!

Naomi reels Tiff in, for a HEATSEEKER! Tiff flops to the floor, and then Naomi SPLIT LEG DROPS! Naomi says it’s #NaomiTime, but SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Naomi runs, but into a SPINEBUSTER! High stack, TWO! Naomi survives and Tiff is frustrated but the fans rally up. Tiff drags Naomi up, whips her to a corner, but Naomi goes up and sunset flips! TWO! Tiff escapes, knees Naomi low, then whips. Naomi slides under the lariat to then mule kick! Then she headscissor SPIKES Tiff down! Cover, TWO! Tiff survives but barely, and Naomi keeps her cool. Naomi headlocks, but Tiff shoves her into buckles! Tiff runs, but Naomi follows, DOUBLE RUNNING FACEBUSTERS take them both down! The fans fire up as the two rise!

Naomi KICKS, ROCKS and ROCKS Tiff again! Naomi fires shots again and again but Tiff knees low! Tiff reels Naomi in, but Naomi wrenches out to ENZIGIRI! And then BUCKLE BULLDOG! But then NIA JAX attacks Bayley!? Nia SMACKS Bayley off buckles, rains down fists, and this momentarily distracts Naomi. Naomi refocuses, but by now, Tiff’s slipped away! Nia KICKS Bayley in the side, so Naomi goes out to ROCK her! Nia POSTS Naomi and that throws the match out!

No Contest

The fans boo as Nia ruins the fun, then runs Bayley over! Nia smiles as she blows kisses to Cincy. Tiff smiles, she drags Naomi up and puts her in the ring. Then she drags Bayley in! Tiff wants a repeat of last week as she puts them side by side in the drop zone! Tiff then goes up and up for the PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Tiff says it’s her time, but the #1 contendership is still in question. Who gets their shot at the Role Model at Backlash?

 

B-Fab and the Street Profits meet up backstage.

Angelo Dawkins has a “WHO-DEY” sign, but Montez Ford is wondering where Bobby Lashley is right now. B-Fab says calm down, he’ll be here. Byron Saxton walks over and apologizes for interrupting. He doesn’t know what the Draft destination for this group will be until Monday Night Raw, but we do know that The Profits will challenge A-Town Down Under for the WWE Tag Team Championships. YESSIIIIIIR~! B-Fab says it doesn’t matter where they get drafted. The Profits are going to take down A-Town Down Under and take those titles. Then they’ll have their first class tickets right back to SmackDown.

SmackDown? Did someone say SmackDown~? In walk Austin Theory & Grayson Waller, showing off the titles. And Theory says you can’t have SmackDown without the GREATEST undefeated tag team of all time. And sorry, Dawkins, but these are championships, something the Bengals know nothing about! B-Fab keeps Dawkins back, but then in steps Bobby Lashley! The All Mighty scares Theory & Waller right off, and Dawkins says see y’all next Friday! Will there be nothing keeping these Profits down the night before Backlash?

 

The Final Testament speaks.

Karrion Kross says good evening. What’s going on here? You guessed it! More random acts of violence! Just follow him. Kross & Scarlett lead the way to show The Authors of Pain beating down New Catch Republic! Rezar beats down Pete Dunne while Akam victimizes Tyler Bate! Paul Ellering says they will know about sacrifice! Kross says whether they get drafted to Raw or stay on SmackDown, the violence will continue until they get what they want! So sayeth The Final Testament!!

 

Teddy Long and JBL are here!

The Hall of Famer General Manager and the Hall of Famer WWE Champion are both here, ready to give us the fourth and final round of picks tonight! Teddy gets right to it! The first pick of the fourth round, SmackDown selects… AJ STYLES! The Phenomenal One is really an obvious choice, because one way or another, the WWE Championship stays with SmackDown! JBL says the second pick of the fourth round, Raw selects… THE ALPHA ACADEMY! Raw keeps Chad Gable, Otis, Maxxine Dupri & Akira Tozawa, A THANK YEW~!

Teddy says with the third pick of this round, SmackDown selects… ANDRADE! A big move as now El Idolo will be part of Friday nights. And with the final pick of this fourth round, Raw selects… NXT’S Kiana James! The Calculator, the former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion, has the Raw hat to put on, and after a quick hype package, Jackie Redmond is there to interview her. Kiana, congratulations! You are heading to Monday Night Raw! How much does this mean to her? This means the world to her. She is filled with gratitude, but also knows every decision she has made up to this point has been by design to get her here.

Kiana is so proud of her time in NXT, but she’s ready to show Raw why she is the One Percent. Was she surprised? Of course she was! HBK is here to wish her luck and congratulations. Is Kiana going to start the hostile takeover of the Raw Women’s Division?

 

Backstage interview with Nick Aldis.

Kayla is with the SmackDown GM and says that with night one in the books, how does he feel about SmackDown’s selections? He feels really good about them. SmackDown’s future is bright, he can’t wait for the new recruits to show up and show out for the blue brand. But he also wants to turn attentions to Backlash, because he’s got some new matches to announce! The first PLE in France, this is exciting stuff, Kayla. Aldis says that the WWE Women’s Championship will now be on the line in a Triple Threat! Bayley VS Naomi VS Tiffany Stratton! Will the odds make it that much harder for the Role Model to succeed?

There’s one more match to announce, but Aldis will let the GM GOAT take it from here. Teddy Long steps in, and don’t forget. We’ll talk about this tag team match. The Bloodline VS Kevin Owens & Randy Orton! Holla, players. Solo & Tama will have to face The Viper and the Prizefighter, will #RKKO strike fast and strike hard?

 

Cody Rhodes VS Carmelo Hayes!

The American Nightmare just put pen to paper for his match with the Phenomenal One, but he isn’t one to shy away from a challenge. The former NXT Champion is shooting his shot, but will this be nothing but net? Or will it be a frustrating airball?

The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, the fans rally for Cody as he puts Melo in a corner then arm-drags him away. Melo runs up, Cody headlocks, Melo powers out then drops. Melo hurdles, but Cody kicks low to RHODES UPPERCUT! Melo staggers to ropes, the fans fire up, but then melo throat chops and springboard FLYING LARIATS! Melo says that’s why he’s a first round pick! But then Cody CLOBBERS him! Cody asks if Melo’s ready for this, and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns once again and Cody has a headlock. Cody hits a takeover, Melo flails and kicks around, but Cody grinds him down. Melo pushes with his forearm, then headscissors, but Cody kips free. Melo CHOPS, the fans “WOO~!” but Cody brushes himself off. Melo pie faces Cody! Cody fires forearms on Melo, then whips, but Melo reverses. Melo ELBOWS Cody, then runs up to KICK him in the side! Melo fires forearms and CHOPS in a corner, then throws body shots. Melo digs his boot in, the ref counts, and Cody goes to another corner. Cody eggs Melo on, Melo storms up, but Cody puts him in the corner to CHOP!

Cody swings, Melo dodges and CHOPS! Cody turns things around to CHOP! The fans rally, Cody whips corner to corner, then he back drops Melo away! Melo staggers up, Cody runs, and he rallies on Melo with forearms! Cody goes up and over in a corner but Melo tilt-o-whirls, LA MYSTICA! Melo springboards, FADE AWAY! Cover, TWO! Cody survives that flying DDT, but we see the NXT roster all fired up watching Melo take it to the champ. Melo sits Cody up, drags him into a facelock, but the fans rally for Cody. Cody fireman’s carries but Melo slips free to dragon sleeper! Melo grins, but Cody cradles! TWO!!

Melo swings, Cody boots, then Cody springboards to BEAUTIFUL DISASTER! Melo flips inside-out, Cody covers, TWO! Melo is still in this and he snarls up at Cody. Melo gives a forearm, Cody gives it back, and the fans rally up. Cody scoops Melo, storms around, and then hits a RUNNING POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Melo survives and Cody grows frustrated. Cody pounds the mat, the fans rally up, and then Cody goes to ropes. Cody springboards again, CODY CUTTER! Cover, TWO!! Melo survives yet again, proving why he’s a former NXT Champion, on top of NXT North American Champion! But then Cody drags him up!

Cody back suplexes, Melo lands out of it, then FIRST 48! Doe goes Cody and Melo goes up! Melo is setting up for the game winner! NOTHING BUT- NO, Cody avoids the flying leg drop! Melo rolls through, Cody dodges to SUPERKICK! Cody brings Melo around, but Melo gets free! They both run, both springboard, but completely miss each other, and Cody takes a rough landing! Melo drags Cody up, reels him in, but Cody wrenches out to dragon sleeper! CROSS RHODES!! Cody shakes out the bad arm but still makes the cover, and Cody wins!

Winner: Cody Rhodes, by pinfall

Melo took his shot but it was blocked! Even so, Cody sits Melo up to show him respect and tell him he’s still the future. But did this match end up more of a trap game for Cody after that crash landing? Or will he be alright in time for Backlash and his phenomenal opponent?

Speaking of, Styles sneaks right into the ring! Cody sees him in time and Styles stays back. Cody and Styles stare down, but Styles says it was that close. Styles offers a handshake, and Cody takes it. There’s still respect here, for now. But will nothing stop Styles from turning Cody’s story into a tragedy after all?


My Thoughts:

A great SmackDown to open the WWE Draft but to also set up Backlash. To recap, SmackDown took Bianca, Melo, Orton, Nia, LA Knight, The Bloodline, Styles and Andrade while Raw took Jey, Rollins, Bron, Liv, Ricochet, Sheamus, The Alpha Academy, and Kiana. Many of those choices made sense, as picks won’t be wasted on keeping champions on brands, and just need to be used to keep most stories alive and change up a few others. Kiana is perhaps one of the more surprising moves, but well-deserved. She has been a solid character and solid in-ring performer almost from the start, she’s a solid addition to Raw.

Bron of course demolished his opponent tonight, it’s just a shame it was Cedric and not local enhancement talent. But Bron will also be a good addition to Raw, but maybe he can move past his squash match phase and get right to story. Melo being a first round pick was great stuff, and he had a great promo with Cody to give us tonight’s main event. That double springboard whiff was definitely a timing problem, but at the same time, a Fade Away countered into a Cody Cutter would’ve been way too epic just for TV. Cody with a great win, and we got a really good contract signing segment, but you can bet Cody retains.

Really good tag match from LWO VS Legado but naturally Rey & Dragon won. I knew it was only a matter of time before Carlito was outed, and how he handled being exposed was pretty good. And with Andrade being drafted to SmackDown, you just know that means Andrade joins the LWO. The Final Testament attacking New Catch Republic was a wild moment, I almost thought Ellering was going to use the pliers in his hands to grab at fingers. Maybe we get that next week for SmackDown in France. Good promos from A-Town Down Under and the still technically unnamed faction of Bobby Lashley’s. As great as The Profits are, it feels like Theory & Waller will cheat to retain.

Really good promo with Tiff and Bayley to set up Naomi VS Tiff round 3, but I did not think Nia Jax would disrupt all that. A Triple Threat at Backlash is good stuff, it will protect Bayley if she loses, but can also protect Naomi and Tiff if Bayley uses them against each other to win. Good promo from Bianca that then turned into the shouting match of Bianca & Jade with Kabuki Warriors. Their tag title match is official, and I’m pretty sure Bianca & Jade win. I also liked that this segment ended up having Kevin and Tama brawl right through it. Orton saving Kevin was a great move, RKKO VS Solo & Tama is going to be awesome stuff, I can’t wait to see it.

My Score: 8.8/10


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Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 4.25.2024

We just got done with Rebellion, and Under Siege is two weeks away! Gotta see how these dots connect!

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Rebellion had quite a few returns, Mike Santana, Sami Callihan and Broken Matt Hardy. All three of these guys could easily be main event players, and its nice to mix up and expand what felt like a rather small pool of potential challengers.

Under Siege is only like 2 weeks out, so we’ll see how the dots connect in such a short period of time.

Ratings:

  • Mike Santana vs Myron Reed w/Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz: Santana wins via Spin the Block – ** 1/2
  • #1 Contender: Frankie Kazarian vs Josh Alexander: Josh wins via Grapevine Ankle Lock – ***
  • ASH by Elegance vs Xia Brookside: Xia wins via School Girl Roll-Up – ** 3/4
  • Sami Callihan vs The Good Hands: Sami Callihan wins via Cactus Driver ’97 – SQUASH
  • Eddie Edwards w/Alisha Edwards & Brian Myers vs Nic Nemeth: Eddie wins via Boston Knee Party – *** 1/4

Results:

A weird opening that is just framed to put Nemeth and Hardy together against The System. Feels a little awkward, but who knows how it will play out. 

Mike Santana vs Myron Reed w/Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz

Ahh I didn’t really pay attention to Santana’s theme at Rebellion, but its pretty damn cool. Good stuff. 

Rascalz blindside Santana early, but the heel advantage doesn’t last more than a few moves. Santana whips Myron from corner to corner, hits a few Hip Attacks before Myron finally dodges one and starts using his unique offense and agility to his advantage. Matrix dodge, into an Leaping Outside Back in Slingshot Codebreaker. Some more offense and Santana powders to the ramp, Myron jumps over the rope and tries a Flying Cutter, but Santana blocks it, turns things around, gets pushed forward and hits the Rolling Cutter. Santana takes out the Rascalz, heads back into the ring, Myron tries to catch him unawares but eats the Spin the Block off the rope run! Santana wins fairly quickly.

Maclin’s music hits, he tries to employ the help of The Rascalz to attack Santana, but as soon as Maclin positions himself to get in, The Rascalz bail and flip off Maclin. Maclin makes it out of the confrontation relatively unscathed, but at least we know where he’s going for Under Siege probably.

OH FUCK ME WITH RUSTY KNIVES. Because Cardona is hurt Kon is paired with SDL, and she just challenges Jordynne and PCO to a tag match. WHY!? STOP IT. This is hot garbage. 

Josh Alexander comes out…I wonder who’s Super Finisher he’s gonna conveniently kick out this time? Brian Myers? Frankie Kazarian? Rich Swann? Because yes, I’m still annoyed that Hammerstone has been in TNA for half a sandwich, he already connects with a Super version of his finish on tacks, and that’s not a finish. Oh Kaz’s music hits. Okay, so time for Josh to kick out of Fade to Black or Flux Capacitor. Kaz talks smack, says he won his match too so he should have a say in who’s number one contender. Josh challenges him, Kaz says not right now, but a referee runs out and says the match is official. 

#1 Contender: Frankie Kazarian vs Josh Alexander

Kaz throws his jacket on Josh’s head, and attacks him with some strikes before Josh fights back and throws Kaz out. Commercial break, we see Kaz misses his Apron Guillotine, Josh goes for the Low Crossbody but Kaz dodges and Josh goes flying. Kaz starts throwing some chops and claws at the cauliflowered ears of Josh. Russian Leg Sweep from Kaz for a near fall. Josh swings wildly and Kaz ducks the strike and levels Josh with a Lariat.

Josh blocks a Vertical Suplex attempt, but Frankie pulls off a Fisherman’s Suplex after a few overhead strikes for a near fall. Josh stands up and connects with a straight right, rocks Kaz, Back Body Drop, into a Charging Forearm, Rolling Senton, 2 count! C4 Spike attempt countered into a Back Stabber and then Chicken Wing, but Josh fights it off, rolls through and into an Ankle Lock, Kaz kicks off and into a Head and Arm Cradle for a near fall and then the Guillotine Leg Drop into Slingshot DDT spot from Kaz for another 2 count!

Fade to Black, but its fought off, Big Boot but then Kaz counters the next move with a Power Slam into the Springboard Guillotine Leg Drop, but Josh grabs the Ankle Lock! Locomotion German Suplex time from Josh, Halfhatch Suplex after the Germans, floats over for a 2 count! C4 Spike attempt again, but Kaz fights it off, dumps him over the top rope, slingshots him in and into the Cutter for a near fall for Kaz! After the 2 Kaz grabs a chair and chain, the referee stops the chair of course, so he tries the chain, EY runs down and grabs the chain so Kaz pulls the Eddie Guerrero and the referee admonishes EY, but doesn’t DQ Josh. So as Kaz is busy laughing at EY, Josh picks the ankle, Ankle Lock with the Grapevine, Kaz taps.

ASH by Elegance vs Xia Brookside

Both are jawing at each other and then throw hands before Xia gets the upper hand with a Headscissors from the Top Turnbuckle, Charging Knees, a Flurry of Kicks, but when the ref forces some space in the corner, ASH is finally able to dodge and work over Xia with her Twisting Body Splash, a few choking moves, a corner Stomp into a Snap Suplex for 2. ASH is in charge elegantly, but the referee keeps forcing space on both of them when they go for corner attacks. Xia manages to take advantage a little, but ASH regains control, kicks Xia up the ramp and then lands her Cartwheel Back Elbow up the ramp. It actually looks pretty cool executed like that.

Headlocks and Hair Pulling to keep Xia down and using energy to kick out. ASH is getting frustrated but Xia is remaining persistent. ASH goes back to the Headlock, but Xia fights up, Jawbreaker, Back Elbow, Kick to the gut and Drop Toe Hold sends ASH face first into the middle buckle. Xia rips off 4 Double Knee Smashes to the back of ASH’s head into her Flying Crossbody for a close 2! Xia pulls her up, but ASH spins out, then Xia slips it, but ASH kicks her in the chest and deposits her to the outside and demands a count from the referee. Iceman puts Jeweled Knuckles/Rings on ASH’s hand, the referee catches her, removes the stuff from her fingers and Xia hits the School Girl Roll-Up for the flash win.

Sami Callihan vs The Good Hands

So the Good Hand Jobs are about to do their job to Sami. I’m just gonna assume Sami beats the hell out of both and wins with a Cactus Driver ’97. If anything interesting happens I might actually cover it, but come on now.

Kaz makes a Metallica reference with the “Wash Your Back So You Won’t Stab Mine”…and Sweet Amber is the only good song on St. Anger. So…I ain’t mad.

Eddie Edwards w/Alisha Edwards & Brian Myers vs Nic Nemeth

A little early ground wrestling and headlocks for control from both men. Nothing super flashy to start until we get to the rope run and Nemeth goes for the Flying Body Press to drop Eddie. Before Nemeth can follow up, Lish grabs his foot. Nic does have his brother Ryan in the crowd, trying to get chants going and do the old school ‘power up the babyface’ thing, but Eddie has been in control since Lish got involved. Simple offense, chokes, strikes, Snap Suplexes, Knee Drops, simple yet effective. But then Eddie ducks his head too early, Nemeth kicks him in the face, bounces his head off the buckles a few times, Dropkick sends Eddie reeling to the corner, Nemeth starts the 10 Count Punches but Myers hits the apron to distract and Eddie manages to slip the situation and push Nemeth to the floor.

Commercial break happens, Nemeth is trying to fight back with Chops, but a Kitchen Sink from Eddie puts Nemeth on the floor again! Clubbing blow from Eddie, but Eddie then misses the Hip Attack in the corner and Nemeth counters with the Rude Awakening into the 10 Count Rain of Elbows. Fame Ass-er miss, Eddie tries something but Nemeth turns it into that hesitation DDT for 2! Tuning up the band starts to build and Eddie powders to avoid it. Nemeth throws Eddie back in, goes to the top, but Eddie crotches him, rises up and hits the Superplex into Tiger Driver for 2! Eddie starts mocking with Tuning Up the band but Nemeth hits his own Superkick into an Olympic Slam for 2!

Both men just trade strikes Fighting Spirit style, Eddie says “Always Trust the System” and Nemeth shuts him up with a Headbutt. Danger Zone is blocked, Boston Knee Party gets ducked, they level each other with Lariats! Myers and Ryan Nemeth start fighting to distract the referee, Moose hits the ring and hits Nemeth with the belt. Eddie lands Boston Knee Party and The System wins again!

 

Overall Score: 6/10

A lame opening segment, a squash match, ASH by Elegance getting her first loss, and a weird way of just pulling the number one contender out of mid air makes for an awkward show. Also Kon still be involved in, literally anything, is negative. However, I can say there was a ton of stuff thrown at the wall this episode, so there’s a chance that some things landed better with other people than myself. The ballot segments were amusing, they overused the “I need to talk to you Santino” gimmick a bit much and personally I feel like having Jake versus Hammerstone is booking yourself into a weird corner.

But hey, the main event was fun, Nemeth getting laid out to the point that there could be a story reason to take him out of the Under Siege match. Kaz with the Metallica reference was pop worthy and I guess its a lot of ‘let’s see where it goes’ kind of angle creation. So it wasn’t complete trash, but its definitely a wait and see episode.


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