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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (6/4/18) | The Chairshot
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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (6/4/18)

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With only two episodes of Raw before Money in the Bank, the Red Brand enters the home stretch. Two former Universal Champions in Finn Balor and Kevin Owens face off, while The GLORIOUS Bobby Roode will try not to #GetTheseHands from Braun Strowman! Plus, Nia Jax tunes up against Ronda Rousey’s friend, Natalya!

 

All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter

 

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Elias & Jinder Mahal w/ Sunil Singh VS Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns; Elias & Mahal win.
  • Curt Hawkins VS James Harden; Harden wins by Disqualification, no free tacos.
  • Nia Jax VS Natalya; Nia wins.
  • Braun Strowman VS Bobby Roode; Strowman wins.
  • Raw Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Battle Royal: The B Team wins and will challenge The Deleters of World for the titles at Money in the Bank.
  • Six Woman Tag: Alexa Bliss, Sasha Banks & Ember Moon VS The Riott Squad; initial decision reversed, the Riott Squad wins.
  • Kevin Owens VS Finn Balor; Finn wins, by disqualification.

PLAY BY PLAY

“Ladies and Gentleman: Elias.”

The Drifter opens Raw to a strongly negative reaction. But even so, Elias tells Houston that “I am the man who carries the power of wind in my fist” as he plays his guitar. He asks as always, “Who Wants to Walk with Elias?!” But it should be of no surprise that Elias is the first face we see, because he is WWE’s most valuable asset. He will become even more valuable when he becomes the next Intercontinental Champion. Money in the Bank will see Seth Rollins learn that WWE really stands for “Walk With Elias!” Speaking of Rollins, we saw what Elias did to him last week, smashing him with a guitar and leaving him in a pile of dirt and pain. But think about how Elias felt smashing that guitar. But as the great artist he is, he turned that pain into a song.

While Elias plays his guitar, footage of that attack replays so that everyone knows just how he hit Rollins. “The Man has fallen down.” That title will be Elias’ trophy, “because the Architect has lost his ground. The Man has fallen down. Just like the Rockets when Golden State comes to town.” But guess who else is in town? The Intercontinental Champion, Seth Rollins! Elias is ready to swing that guitar at Rollins, but Rollins stays at a safe distance. Rollins paces around the ring, with fans on his side. Elias dares him to enter, but Rollins makes sure to grab an equalizer! Rollins has a chair! Elias starts to back away as Rollins walks up into the ring. They stand off, armed with weaponry, and circling in the ring.

Elias makes a full lap before swinging, but the chair smacks the guitar away! Now Rollins has Elias cornered, only for Jnder Mahal to jump Rollins from behind! The fans boo as the Drifter and the Maharaja stomp away, but here comes Roman Reigns!

The Big Dog runs in but has Mahal and Elias on him. He still fights them, and even Sunil Singh, off! He uppercuts them all out of the ring, and helps his Shield Brother stand up. Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle, appears!

Angle has everyone hold on. Elias and Mahal aren’t getting away, because now, it’s a tag team match! Mahal & Elias must face the Shield Brothers, after the break.

 

Elias & Jinder Mahal w/ Sunil Singh VS Seth Rollins & Roman Reigns!

Raw returns and the match begins with Roman and Mahal. However, Mahal decides to tag out to Elias, so Roman tags to Elias. Elias tags to Mahal, so Rollins to Roman. And around again. And again, and again. The Shield stops the cycle and go after Mahal and Elias! Rollins slingshots out onto Mahal while Roman throws Elias into barriers. Rollins puts Mahal back in the ring, then chops away. Mahal puts on a headlock but Rollins powers out. Things speed up and Rollins dropkicks Mahal down. Rollins picks Mahal up and tags to Roman. Rollins whips and then Roman whips Rollins in for the forearm. Roman back elbows Mahal down, then tags back to Rollins. They double whip Mahal, and double shoulder down. Cover, ONE, and Mahal powers Rollisn to his corner. Elias tags in, but Rollins fights back, only to get clobbered from behind.

Elias keeps on Rollins with a tossing hotshot at the ropes. Cover, TWO, and Rollins gets to the ropes. Elias chokes him against them, but backs off at 4. Elias drags Rollins up but Rollins punches back. Rollins reaches but Elias whips and lariats Rollins down. Elias taunts Rollins before putting him in a neck wrench. Elias shifts to a partial cobra clutch, but fans rally. Rollins fights up but Elias wrangles him away into a chinlock. Elias trash talks him but Rollins feeds off the fans’ rally. Rollins stands, but Elias wrangles him back down into a deeper chinlock. Elias wrenches back but Rollins endures. Fans keep rallying, and Rollins stand up to reach. Elias knees low and whips but Rollins kicks him away. Elias blocks the suplex and drops the knee, but misses! Both men crawl, hot tag to Mahal to deny the tag.

Mahal whips, but Rollins boots Mahal away! Rollins throws Mahal out, and hot tag to Roman! Roman rallies on Mahal! This is a preview to their grudge match as Roman hits the leaping lariat. Roman uppercuts Elias for good measure, then clotheslines in the corner for Mahal. He hits all 10, then runs but into Mahal’s boot! Roman rebounds and his HIS boot. Mahal manages to tag Elias, but Elias runs into a boot for himself! Fans fire up while Roman gets to a corner. Roman locks and loads, then takes aim, but Mahal steps up. Roman uppercuts Mahal, but Elias escapes to the outside. Rmoan sees that and exits, to come around the corner. Roman goes for the Drive-By, but Sunil saves Mahal and Elias clobbers Roman! The Shield boys are in trouble while we go to break.

Raw returns to Roman enduring a chinlock. Elias stands Roman up for jabs, then a straight right. Mahal tags in and he hotshots Roman, covers, TWO. Mahal keeps on Roman with elbows to his head and crossfaces before another chinlock. Roman endures again, but Mahal ditches the hold to drop a knee. Mahal keeps on Roman, then tags Mahal so they can stomp and drop more knees. Cover, TWO, but Elias brings Roman up for more jabs. Elias takes a shot at Rollins just because, but Roman throws haymakers now. Roman whips but Eilas reverses and elbows Roman down. Cover, TWO, and Elias grows frustrated. Tag to Mahal, and Mahal kicks Roman back down. Mahal wraps Roman back in a chinlock, but fans rally again. Roman powers up but Mahal runs, into a Samoan Drop! Both men are down but crawling, hot tags to Elias and Rollins!

Rollins hits a Thesz press and throws hands, then the slingblade! He hits Mahal for good measure, then boots Elias to hit the Blockbuster!

Cover, TWO, but Rollins’ neck slows him down. Elias gets to a corner, but Rollins runs in. Elias puts him on the apron, but Rollins springboards up and over. Rollins dodges the knee to hit the Falcon Arrow! Cover, Mahal breaks it. Mahal glares down at Rollins and brings him up, but Roman SUPERMAN Punches Mahal down. Roman waits for Elias to get in position, and hits the Drive-By dropkick! Rollins adds the mule kick, then stomps for “Burn It Down!” Sunil distracts on the apron, but Rollins just flinches him off. Roman catches Sunil but Mahal saves his sidekick. Mahal puts Roman into steel steps, then into the crowd! Elias rolls Rollins, TWO! Enziguri from Rollins, a DIVE onto Mahal! Rollins hits the barrier neck first! Sunil drags out a chair, and goes after Rollins.

Rollins sees him first, and snags that chair away. Rollins glares at Sunil but Elias catches him, DDT on the chair! The referee reprimands Elias but what’s done is done. Elias crawls up to his feet, and drags the limp Rollins up. Elias hits Drift Away! Cover, Elias & Mahal win!

Winners: Elias & Mahal, Elias pinning

Rollins was less than 100% but The Drifter still pinned him. Elias wants to be the Intercontinental Champion, and he’ll do just about anything to get that title. Will he play Rollins’ swan song at Money in the Bank? Will Mahal also win and kick The Big Dog out of The Yard?

 

Curt Hawkins VS James Harden!

The Fact Checker made a bold prediction and promise. Fans know what he promised: when he wins, everyone wins a free taco! But his opponent is James Harden. No not THAT Harden. But he is from Houston. Hawkins is thankful to Harden for being part of history. The bell rings and they tie up. Hawkins puts Harden in a corner, Hawkins rocks him with punches and stmops. He whips Harden corner to corner, and Harden hits buckles hard. Hawkins keeps on Harden with another whip, then a scoop and slam! Hawkins waits for Harden to get up, but Harden dodges him. Harden hits back, but Hawkins makes him pay with a clothesline! Fans chant “We Want Tacos!” has Hawkins waits for Harden stand up. But Baron Corbin appears!

The Lone Wolf is grinning, which is a bad sign for Hawkins, Harden, and the tacos. Corbin hits the ring, END OF DAYS for Harden!

Harden wins by Disqualification; no free tacos

Hawkins hits 200 losses! And only Corbin is happy. Corbin smashes Hawkins with tacos! Then Corbin dumps the table onto Hawkins, adding insult to injury. Fans boo, mostly because they wanted tacos. Will Hawkins ever get out of his losing streak? Or will Corbin continue to ruin everyone’s fun?

 

Kurt Angle meets with Baron Corbin.

“What was that all about?” Corbin will explain that later. He wants his opportunities, and so he went over Angle’s head to Stephanie McMahon. She has a message for Angle. “Due to several questionable judgments,” Stephanie is creating a checks and balances system. Corbin is the Constable of Raw now! The Lone Wolf is going to enforce Stephanie’s will over Angle?!

 

Nia Jax VS Natalya!

The Queen of Harts took offense to The Irresistible Force implying her friend, “Rowdy” Ronda Rousey, can’t put on her best moves. But to make sure Nia doesn’t treat Natty too rough, Ronda is here on commentary!

Will Natty help expose some weaknesses in the Raw Women’s Champion for Ronda to take advantage of? Or is the Irresistible Force truly unstoppable?

The bell rings, and Natty circles with Nia. They tie up, and Nia pushes Natty down. Nia taunts Natty, but Natty keeps her cool as they tie up again. Natty gets a headlock, but Nia is too strong for her to throw. Nia powers and pushes Natty off, but Natty comes back with a clothesline. Nia isn’t backed down at all, so Natty gets around to a waistlock. Natty is easily bucked off but Natty dropkick Nia. Nia shoulders Natty back down, then again. Natty rolls out of the ring to catch her breath while we go to break.

Raw returns to Nia squeezing Natty in a chinlock and half nelson. Natty endures and fights her way up to jawbreaker her way out. Nia comes back, but Natty tries to scoop! Nia headbutts Natty down before she can manage it. Natty gets to a corner, then boots Nia away. Natty runs out, and wheelbarrows to the facebuster! Nia staggers, and Natty dropkicks her down. Fans rally for Natty while they stand. Natty goes after Nia with forearms and kicks and even a slap. Natty kicks again, then whips, but Nia blocks with strength. Nia whips Natty to a corner, but misses the splash. Natty catches her breath, then discus clotheslines Nia down! Cover, TWO! But Rousey can tell how close Natty was there.

Natty and Nia stand, and the fans fire up for the Queen of Harts. Natty runs on Nia, but one of her knees gives out. Nia scoops Natty, Samoan Drop! Cover, Nia wins!

Winner: Nia, by pinfall

Rousey is more worried for Natty than herself. Even Nia shows some concern for the former champion. Rousey also comes over, and checks on Natty as well. Nia wants to show she’s concerned, but Rousey won’t let her near. Nia bumps Rousey, and Rousey takes offense. They stare down, and Rousey tells Nia to leave.

Nia still wants to show concern for the hurt and frustrated Natty, but she keeps her distance. Natty is helped out of the ring, and Rousey follows after. Can the Baddest Woman on the Planet prove to Nia she’s ready to be champion? Will Natalya be able to return to the ring so she can compete in the Women’s MITB Ladder Match?

 

Backstage interview with Bobby Roode.

What is his mindset going into his first ever MITB Ladder match? Ecstatic! He’s in the most life changing match in WWE, and Roode thrives in the spotlight. Roode wants to make history, because that contract is a sure-fire way to becoming the next Universal Champion. And when that all happens, it will be Absolutely GLORIOUS! But what about tonight’s match with Braun Strowman? That’s a different story. Roode’s been in the business 20 years yet no one is like Strowman. Roode will have to use every trick in the book, and maybe that can help him win. Other than that, Roode just hopes to survive.

Braun Strowman VS Bobby Roode!

The Monster Among Men vows to be Mr. MONSTER in the Bank, and he has a very good chance of doing that. Can Roode hope to NOT #GetTheseHands this close to MITB?

Raw returns to this match as the bell rings. Strowman and Roode stare down. Roode rushes Strowman but Strowman shoves him away to then roar triumphantly. Roode stands back up and manages a headlock, but Strowman powers him off. Strowman runs in but Roode dodges. Roode chops but it does nothing! Strowman throws Roode across the way! Then Strowman runs corner to corner, but into boots. Roode hops up but Strowman grabs his throat! He scoops but Roode silps out to chopblock! Roode kicks and kicks, then goes for the DDT. Strowman is too big for that and he just flapjacks Roode down. Fans want Roode to “Get These Hands!” and Strowman stalks Roode to a corner. Strowman uses a butterfly suplex to throw Roode! Fans cheer as Strowman waits for Roode to stand.

Roode rolls to a corner, and back elbows Strowman away. Roode boots Strowman, then dodges to send Strowman into a post! He surprised himself with that, and now he hurries to the outside. Roode starts looking under the ring, and brings out a ladder! A preview of MITB, as Roode prepares the ladder as a bridge. Roode grins as he hurries back into the ring. Strowman stands up, but Roode is confident. Roode baits Strowman into chasing him, and leads him around, to the ladder! But Strowman stops to avoid running into the steel. Roode gloats, but Strowman BREAKS THE LADDER, with his bare hands!!

Roode is afraid, and he runs away for real! He stumbles, and Strowman catches him, to put him into the barriers. Strowman drags Roode up and tosses him into the ring. Strowman stomps over and lifts Roode up, for the MONSTER SLAM! Cover, Strowman wins!

Winner: Strowman, by pinfall

The Monster conquers again! Strowman broke a ladder tonight, will he use ladders to break the other opponents in the MITB match?

 

Kevin Owens watches backstage.

Charli Caruso comes in for an interview and asks his thoughts on all of this. Kevin knows Strowman is big, Roode has a robe and the sky is blue. But who cares about them? Or anyone from SmackDown? Kevin only cares about winning. Finn Balor is a perfect example as to why the WWE Universe is clueless. Everyone loves Finn and the Balor Club, and Too Sweet. Was it Too Sweet when he failed in his match against Strowman? Kevin cost him that match, though. That’s besides the point! Kevin is going to win tonight, and prove to everyone that Finn is just a “made-up Irish myth.”

 

Ronda Rousey is with Natalya in the trainer’s area.

There was a pop in her leg and it just hurts now. Rousey helps Natty with the crutches, and Nia comes in to apologize. Natty understands, but her MITB chances are looking bad. Rousey is upset but Natty defends Nia. Nia says Natty is her friend, too, and Natty defends Ronda to Nia. The friends of Natty argue but she shouts for them to stop. These things happen, so Natty just needs some time. Rousey and Nia ar both worried, but they’re both still upset with each other.

 

The Deleters of Worlds head to the ring!

The WOKEN Yin-Yang is in Houston with their Raw Tag Team Championships, because they want to witness in person, who their opponents for Money in the Bank will be. The Battle Royal is up next, so how does it feel to watch the entire Division to fight for their chance? “Many men lust for power. It’s in their nature, man. It drives them, it consumes them, and ultimately it destroys them.” But any team that has the audacity to take on this team should know that they are not just facing men, but Woken Warriors! They will face fireflies! And they will face wrestling gods, and learn what it means to be WOKEN~! Ye-e-e-e-e-es! They are like magic, but so much more. Their Essences transcend space and time, and now, they are the Raw Tag Team Champions! They have awoken the WWE Universe, and ask… Is Renee WOKEN? Yeah…? WONDERFUL~!

Now it is time for the Battle Royale to commence. Senor Benjamin– WAIT! Wyatt wants it to be known, that no matter which team wins, they will first suffer and be… DELETED!!

Raw Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Battle Royal!

All the other teams of the Raw Tag Team Division fill the ring and only the last team standing will earn a golden opportunity at MITB. Will the “undefeated” B Team be able to overcome The Ascension, Titus Worldwide, The Fashion Police, The Revival, the inaugural SmackDown Tag Team Champions of Slater & Rhyno AND the devastating duo of Dolph & Drew? Or will they be dumped out and defeated for the first time (since their redesign)?

The bell rings and they brawl while Jojo makes the explanations. Ziggler and McIntyre patiently wait on the outside while all the others fight it out. Axel saves Bo from The Ascension but then McIntyre and Ziggler jump in. McIntyre chops with Viktor, while Titus chops Ziggler. The Revival work on Apollo but then McIntyre chops with Scott Dawson. Ziggler survives on the apron as he hotshots Titus away. Viktor goes after Ziggler while Titus goes after Rhyno. Konnor beats up Slater while McIntyre continues on Dawson.

Ziggler survives again but brawls with Apollo. Ziggler goes after old foe Breeze, but Breeze dumps him to the apron. The Show-Off slingshots back in, but then is tossed back tot he apron! Ziggler jumps up, Breeze eliminates him!! He and McIntyre are ELIMINATED together! Not that he cares, he wrecks Slater and Fandango, and Ziggler returns to SUPERKICK people! Ziggler and McIntyre combine on Bo, CLAYMORE ZIGZAG!

Fans boo while the referees force them to leave. The Show-Off & Stud are pissed but this match continues without them, after the break.

Raw returns, and the brawling keeps going. Titus was eliminated during the break, so Apollo goes with him. The #TopGuys work on the Fashion Police but their friends The Ascension save them. However, this only gets Viktor whipped at Fandango, and Fandango tosses Viktor all the way out! The Ascension are ELIMINATED! But then so are the Fashion Police as Dash & Dawson toss Fandango! This leaves the Revival, Slater & Rhyno and The B Team! The Revival work over Rhyno & Slater in turn while The B Team catch their breaths. Bo becomes a target now, but he fights them off. Axel saves his partner and it’s a fight between the four. Dash & Dawson take them down, then whip Slater into the Shatter- No, Rhyno ELIMINATES Dash and therefore the team! Slater SUPERKICKS Dawson for good measure.

The B Team pounces! Axel clubs Slater but he brawls with Rhyno. Rhyno goes after Bo, too, but runs into boots. Axel kicks and DDT’s Rhyno down. Bo and Axel work together to bring Rhyno up and toss him out. Rhyno holds on, and Slater wakes up. The B Team sees their surrounded, big knee and a heel kick from Slater! Slater gets Bo in the scoop, but Rhyno is knocked away! The B Team wins!!

Winners: The B Team; they will challenge for the Raw Tag Team Championships at MITB

Axel & Bo toss Slater out for good measure, and they’re STILL “undefeated”!! The B Team are the #1 contenders, can they become “undefeated” Champions?!

 

Bobby Lashley heads to the ring!

The Alpha Male is in Houston, and is prepared for his grudge match with Sami Zayn at MITB. Sami has accused Lashley of giving him a case of vertigo, then went and used actors to imitate the Lashley sisters. But from where Lashley comes from, he does things the old fashioned way. If Sami wants to talk more trash, say it to his face. Saim’s music hits, but Sami doesn’t walk out.

Lashley waits, but the Underdog responds from way over in the crowd. Lashley wants Sami to enter the ring with him? “YES! YES!” “Not a chance.” Because the last time they were in the ring together, Lashley assaulted Sami. Sami shook Lashley’s hand but Lashley almost broke that hand. Sami couldn’t even cook his organic tofu steaks or hold the mic with that hand.

But that’s okay, because Sami is a genius! His brain never stops working, never stops scouting. Sami has great insight to the real Lashely with the power of Instagram. It turns out, Lashley loves posting inspirational quotes! Sami has some ready, and they’re up on the Titantron. “They told me to think outside the box. I showed them there is no box.” Wow, mind-blown! That’s deep. Like, Sami Zayn levels, almost. Next, “Apply for that job. Date that person. Buy that plane ticket. Move to that city. Do all the things that scare you, they’re worth it.” That one is a strong one. A personal one for Sami, because he’s felt scared to do things, too~! But now he can do anything thanks to Lashley’s Instagram. This is good, really it is. Maybe too good.

Most of these here simply Texans just think “Lashley is a genuinely good person”, but an intellectual like Sami digs deeper. Sami logged into an anonymous alt account and DM’d Lashley. But instead of a nice reply, Lashley copy-pasted a link to this: the Bobby Lashley Fan Club! “Can you believe the ego?” And surprise surprise, for only $19.99 you can get a Lashley headband. For $39.99, get a shirt! “Don’t you see what’s going on here? It’s all a ruse!” It’s a scam to fool everyone. But Sami is too smart for these tricks. Sami, where are you going with all this? Where is he literally going? Sami sure loves lurking his Instagram. Lashley hoped Sami would have the decency to face Sami face to face. Sami doesn’t talk to liars, Bobby. “If that’s even your real name.”

Lashley isn’t sure whether to laugh with, laugh at or pity Sami. Sami is leaving, but Lashley would appreciate not selling this match at the expense of his reputation. But everything about Lashley is a lie! Right down to the fake smile! Does Lashley even have sisters? Was he ever in the Army? Oh did that hit a nerve? Maybe just maybe that was another Lashley lie. Lashley gets angry and Sami steps back even from atop the stairs. Fans chant “USA! USA!” in support of Lashley, but Sami keeps shrinking away. Will Sami pay dearly for all those comments come MITB?

 

Backstage interview with Jinder Mahal.

The Modern Day Maharaja has escalated things with Roman Reigns. What is the root of their issue? “Roman is a jealous, bitter man.” ROman sees a conspiracy when in fact, he’s the only one getting opportunities. Those opportunities should go to Mahal. It’s why Roman speared Mahal before his MITB qualifying match. “But there is something in the air.” The winds of change blow, and Roman will find himself in a storm.

Roman Reigns responds.

His reaction to Mahal’s comments is that Roman is not bitter. Mahal forgot who Roman Reigns is and what he’s done. What has Mahal done around here lately? Nothing! Mahal is the one who expects to be handed things. Mahal takes offense that they aren’t doing this face to face. Roman tells Mahal to shut up. If he wants to do this face to face, they can. They’re both still here, so Roman’s gonna go find Mahal.

The Big Dog is on the hunt, but when he spots Mahal, Mahal is just as ready. Mahal throws Sunil at Roman but that doesn’t stop Roman! They brawl with heavy hands, then Roman puts Mahal into a garage door! Security and referees come in to stop this fight from happening. Mahal and Roman are ready to tear each other up, will they even make it to MITB?

 

Six Woman Tag: Alexa Bliss, Sasha Banks & Ember Moon VS The Riott Squad!

The Goddess, the Boss & The Prophecy of Flame are all in the Women’s MITB Ladder match, but must team up tonight to keep momentum going towards the PPV. Will this trio hold together against the chaotic but united Ruby, Liv & Sarah?

The bell rings and Ember starts against Ruby. They circle and tie up, and go around the ring. Ruby arm-drags Ember, and the Squad cheers. Ember gets a headlock but Ruby reverses. Ember whips but Ruby arm-drags, yet Ember stays on her feet with the handspring. They tie up again, Ruby elbows out of the waistlock to then shoulder Ember down. Things speed up and Ember trips up Ruby to then slingshot splash! Cover, TWO, but Ember keeps on her. Sasha wants to tag but Alexa intercepts. The Goddess takes Ruby from the War Goddess and wrenches on Ruby’s arm. Alexa whips but she hurts her leg! Ruby goes after her but Alexa hurries to tag out to Sasha. Alexa limps away, is she giving up on the match? Raw goes to break while Sasha and Ember look at the retreating Goddess.

Raw returns and this unofficially becomes a handicap match. Liv has Ember in a bodyscissors and chinlock, but Ember stands up to walk to her corner. Liv drags Ember back into the Squad’s corner, and tags in Ruby. Ruby tags in Sarah then whips Liv in for a forearm. Ruby runs in for the shoulder, then they feed Ember to Sarah’s pop-up headbutt! Cover, TWO, and The Squad is frustrated. Sarah tags Ruby, and they stomp Ember. Ruby drags Ember up by her hair, then puts her in a double chicken wing. Ember endures the thrashing, then bucks Ruby off with the ropes. She crawls towards Sasha but Ruby drags her away. Ember stands but Ruby throws her down by her hair! Ruby goes back over but Ember rolls and hot tag to Sasha!

Sasha rallies on Liv, and gives a knee for the kick. Sasha hits Sarah, then double knees on Liv. Liv puts Sasha on the apron but Sasha kicks her away. Ruby returns but Sasha kicks her away. Sasha slingshots in but Liv disrupts that and bumps Sasha’s face off buckles! Liv adds the double stomps! Cover, TWO, and Liv can’t believe it. Liv keeps on Sasha while tagging Ruby. Ruby stomps, then tags Sarah, this is a Squad stampede. Liv tags in and stalks Sasha while fans rally for her. Liv puts Sasha in a seated full nelson but Sasha feeds off the fan energy. Sasha kicks back and reaches but Liv denies the tag. A double clothesline takes both of them down!

The fans rally, but the Squad sneaks around the side to trip up Ember. Ember fights them off with kicks, then hurries back up, only for Liv to blast her back. of Sarah htis Shotgun Knees that send Ember flying! Sasha rolls up Liv, TWO, Liv dropkicks Sasha. Cover, TWO, and Liv shrieks. She hammers away on Sasha, then drags her up to the Squad corner. Ruby tags in, then tags Sarah. They try the train again but Sasha fights back. Sasha jumps up and hits Meteora on Sarah and Ruby! Sasha is down, but so is Ember. HERE COMES BAYLEY!

She tags in!? She rallies on Sarah! Bayley hits a knee, then a Bayley2Belly! Cover, Bayley and team wins!

Winners: Sahas, Ember & Bayley, Bayley pinning

The Huggable One makes a surprise appearance, but it was just in time. She helps Ember and her sometimes-friend Sasha win, does this put Bayley back in Sasha’s good graces?

 

Kurt Angle and Baron Corbin see the finish.

The Lone Wolf wants to know what’s up with that. It’s none of Corbin’s business. But Corbin is the Constable now, and nowhere in the book it says you can do what Bayley just did. Angle needs to find those three and tell them that this win doesn’t count. Or else, Stephanie will. Angle concedes, is this how it’s going to be on Raw now?

 

The “winners” are backstage.

“What a rush!” Alexa quit, but Bayley made the save. Sasha agrees, and wishes Bayley was the one– Don’t. This was good enough. Ember thinks they should just hug this out already, because she wants to celebrate. However, Angle finds them, and as Corbin said, this win is reversed. Bayley wasn’t legal, The Squad wins instead. Unfair as it is, does this nullify everything Bayley just did for Sasha?

Corbin also talks to a referee about this.

“This job’s not for everybody.” Is everyone getting the shakedown now that Stephanie has appointed “Constable Corbin”?

 

The Big Show is here!

The Giant is back, and he’s here with members of Team Texas for the Special Olympics. “We want to welcome these tremendous athletes” as they compete in the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games. Big Show is honored to have met these athletes year after year, they inspire him to be a better person. Special Olympics embodies what it means to show love and support and Big Show is proud to be by their side. “Together, we all can make a difference.” Please show your support for the Special Olympics, inclusion, and the fun of sports! And speaking of inclusion, it’s FINN BALOR! Balor Club is for Everyone!

Kevin Owens VS Finn Balor!

Not only is this a Raw first-time-ever of two former Universal Champions, this is also a rematch that dates back to their NXT Championship match where the Extraordinary Man took the title from the Prizefighter. Both men are on the verge of an even bigger prize, who will gain momentum ahead of MITB?

The bell rings and they tie up. Kevin powers Finn to a corner, but Finn avoids the sucker punch to chop away. The referee backs Finn off given the ropebreak, and Finn honors it. Kevin comes back and the two circle. Kevin gets the waistlock, then the slam, and then he slaps Finn in the head. “Was that Too Sweet?” Finn kicks away on Kevin, and Kevin hobbles out of the ring. Kevin takes his time with the ring count, then returns at 5. He and Finn circle again while fans duel. Kevin kicks and clubs Finn down, then puts him in a headlock. Finn pushes but Kevni holds on, “Who’s Too Sweet now?” Kevin hits the headlock takeover and traps an arm. He makes it a cover, TWO. They stand up, Finn powers out but Kevin runs him over. TWO, but Kevin gets the chinlock all over again.

Finn endures the hold, and stands up again. Finn powers out and avoids Kevin this time, to then arm-drag Kevin down. Now Finn has Kevin in a hold, but Kevin stands up and puts Finn in a corner. Kevin body shots Finn, then stomps him. “That’s why this is MY show!” Kevin stomps Finn more, then drags him up for a chop. Finn staggers but Kevin whips. Finn reverses, sunset flip but roll through to a dropkick! Cover, TWO, but Finn puts Kevin back in the armlock. Kevin works his way up, but Finn wrenches the arm. Finn goes to a hammerlock, but Kevin backs him down. Kevin elbows at the break, and the ref reprimands him, but Kevin just stomps Finn again. Kevin kicks and stomps, then stops at 4. Finn stands up but Kevin whips Finn hard corner to corner. Cover, TWO, and Finn gets to a corner.

Kevin stalks Finn, and swiftly chops him. Kevin whips Finn again, but then Finn dodges and slips out to swing kick Kevin down! Finn climbs up, but Kevin rolls out to avoid the Coup de Grace. Finn has Kevin on the defense while we go to one last break.

Raw returns once more, and Finn fights his way out of a chinlock, only for Kevin to wrangle him back down. Kevin mocks Finn, “That was so close.” Kevin keeps up the squeeze, shouting that the MITB contract is already his. Fans rally for Finn, and Finn powers up again. Kevin clubs him stiffly on the back, but Finn boots out of a corner. Finn runs and rallies with a big forearm smash. Finn runs but into Kevin’s boot. Kevin hops up while Finn is dazed, but Finn swing kicks him down! Finn climbs up now, but Kevin rolls out again, so Finn adjusts plans and FLIES!

Finn takes out Kevin with the leap, and fires himself back up. He drags Kevin up and into the ring, but Kevin rolls out again. Finn grabs him and brings him back up, but Kevin hotshots the arm.

Kevin stomps the writhing Finn and goes right after the arm. Kevin then stands on Finn’s other arm before slamming the bad arm. Fans cheer for Finn while Kevin puts him in a double wristlock. Finn endures and powers up again, but Kevin wrangles him back down. Fans keep rallying, and Finn stands up again. Kevin wrenches the arm and brings Finn back down. Finn refuses to give up, so Kevin lets go. Kevin goes for the senton but Finn avoids it! Finn and Kevin slowly stand, and Kevin kicks low. Kevin clubs Finn again, and fans boo. Kevin stands Finn up and whips but Finn reverses. Finn prepares the body drop but Kevin goes for the powerbomb! Finn blocks the lift, then dumps Kevin down for the double stomps! Both men are down from exhaustion.

Finn sits up first, but Kevin gets to a corner. Kevin stands up but Finn is on him with furious strikes! Finn won’t let Kevin get away, he keeps going, then whips Kevin corner to corner. Running chop, then another whip. Kevin reverses but Finn reverses back, elbow drop DDT! Cover, TWO! Finn has the fans on his side as he gets to a corner. Finn tries the slingblade but Kevin rolls him up, TWO, SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO, and Kevin can’t believe it. Kevin stands while fans cheer Finn. Kevin grimaces as he drags Finn up and throws him to ropes. Finn slingblades off the rebound! Fans fire up while both men stand, Finn blasts Kevin to a corner with the dropkick! Kevin hits buckles and hits the mat, but now Finn climbs up.

Finn takes aim once more, but Kevin uses the ropes to trip him up! Finn gasps for air while Kevin puts him in the Tree of Woe. Kevin stomps and stomps and stomps, but the referee counts him. Kevin won’t stop, so the referee calls for the bell!

Winner: Finn, by disqualification

The Prizefighter went too far, and now he loses the match. But that only makes Kevin angrier! He brings Finn into position, and then climbs up to the top, FROG SPLASH!

Kevin has that old familiar look of seething anger again as he stares up at the briefcase. Kevin grabs a ladder from under the ring, another preview to MITB. He puts the ladder in the ring while the referee checks on Finn. The referee tells Kevin to stop this, but Kevin doesn’t listen. Kevin stands the ladder up, then tells everyone to watch as he climbs it. Kevin reaches the very top, and then has an even more sinister idea now. He turns around, for… Well, no, maybe not from that height. Kevin comes down a couple rungs, and thinks about it again. This hesitation allows Finn to get up and smack Kevin into the ladder! Finn blasts Kevin with another dropkick, and now FINN gets that crazy idea. Finn climbs, and climbs, and climbs… SUPER COUP DE GRACE!!

The double stomp hits from ten feet up, and then Finn goes back up. Finn returns to the top of the ladder and takes down the briefcase! Will we see this all over again in the Men’s Money in the Bank match? Will Finn become the Extraordinary Man in the Bank?

 


 

My Thoughts:

A solid Raw overall tonight, but it only did so much to help sell MITB to those who aren’t already planning to watch. Elias opening was a nice touch, as was the confrontation with Rollins, but it was a biit too formulaic to have it become a Teddy Long style tag match. Though, the match was still fun, and apparently Houston likes Roman. It was good for Elias and Mahal to win to first set up the IC title match, and then add fuel to the Roman-Mahal grudge match. Corbin apparently moves up in the world now that he’s the “Constable”. Now he gets to ruin everyone’s fun, not just Hawkins and his taco giveaway. Also nice gag with “James Harden” getting a win.

Nia VS Natty was pretty good, and it worked to feed the Nia-Ronda story, where Nia “hurts” her leg, and it gives her two mutual friends a new reason to not get along. Braun continues to be the best thing ever with that bare-handed ladder breaking. How is he NOT the favorite to win? And obviously the B Team were the favorites in the Tag Team Battle Royal, I just wish they let McIntyre & Ziggler last longer. I did enjoy their meltdown and how they attacked everyone else. I feel like it would’ve been better if they’d messed up the match for everyone else, and then there’d need to be something else to determine contenders.

Tonight’s Lashley-Sami segment was better than the others, but it still feels like something isn’t clicking. The match will be great, naturally, but it just seems like this isn’t what either of them should’ve been doing towards MITB. The Six Woman Tag was pretty good, and it was another clever move for Alexa to be “hurt” and back out so that Bayley can make an “illegal” save, as pointed out by Constable Corbin. I’m starting to think they’re making a shift from Angle & Lashley VS Kevin & Sami to Angle VS Corbin. That’s not so bad, as Kevin VS Finn was incredible, and this could become a great program should neither guy win MITB.

My Score: 8/10

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Coverage

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

One step closer to the end!

Published

on

Can the Last Real Champion handle The Truth?

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

OFFICIAL RESULTS

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

PLAY BY PLAY

LA Knight is here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

SmackDown returns and…

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

 

Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

Alexa Bliss returns backstage.

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

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

 

Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson!

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

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

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

 

Jamie Noble talks with Truth backstage.

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

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

 

Cody Rhodes is here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Nia Jax is here!

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission

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

 

Solo Sikoa talks with JC Mateo.

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

 

Solo Sikoa heads to the ring.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winner: LA Knight, by disqualification

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

 

Jacob Fatu speaks.

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

 

John Cena VS Ron Killings!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winner: Ron Killings, by disqualification

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


My Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Score: 9/10

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Coverage

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

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

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

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

Ratings:

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

 

Results:

Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Score: 4/10

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

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

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

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