Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Live Report! (7/3/18)

Published

7 years ago

July 3, 2018

While there’s still two weeks left, SmackDown is gaining speed towards Extreme Rules! First, Team Hell No is promised to kick off the show now that they’ve reunited AND been granted a shot at The Bludgeon Brothers’ tag team titles. Then, The Phenomenal AJ Styles will take on MC Artiste as a warm-up before Rusev Day!

All images courtesy of the WWE’s official Twitter

OFFICIAL RESULTS

WWE United States Championship Independence Day Open Challenge: Jeff Hardy VS ???; Hardy wins and retains the WWE United States Championship.
Asuka VS James Ellsworth w/ Carmella; Double Count Out.
AJ Styles VS Aiden English w/ Rusev; Styles wins.
Becky Lynch VS Peyton Royce w/ Billie Kay; Becky wins.
The Usos VS Team Hell No; Team Hell No wins, keeping their SmackDown Tag Team Championship match against The Bludgeon Brothers at 2v2.

PLAY BY PLAY

Renee Young welcomes us to SmackDown!

And she welcomes to the ring, Kane & Daniel Bryan, Team Hell No!

OH, HELL YES! We're kicking off #SDLive with the newly-reunited #TeamHellNo! @WWEDanielBryan @KaneWWE pic.twitter.com/8cfnjOYNzi

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

The Big Red Machine has indeed returned, and he did so by saving his frenemy from the Bludgeon Brothers, Harper & Rowan. After five years, these two are back together and are set to challenge Harper & Rowan for their SmackDown Tag Team Championships at Extreme Rules! Their reunion and the “Hug Felt Around the World” made headlines. They’ve been successful despite their dysfunction, but that’s the beautiful part. Sometimes they fight, sometimes they hug, but they always deliver and are unstoppable! Kane and Bryan fought blindfolded and arms tied behind backs, and even fought The Shield in a TLC Match. They even graduated from Anger Management with Honors. Kane & Bryan have been through Hell, but they are back and better than ever!

But why did Kane come back? Well, Bryan has a bit of a temper. When he was attacked a couple weeks ago, Kane knew Bryan would get himself in trouble. Whether Bryan realizes it, he always has a demon watching over him. Well maybe not always. Bryan is excited to have Kane back and vows they will become the NEW SmackDown Tag Team Champions! Fans chant “YES! YES!” because they hope so, too. But when Kane said he has always watched over Bryan, that’s not exactly true. The last time they were in the ring together, it was as opponents. But as friends. Were they? Kane tried to end Bryan’s career. Well everyone wants to win. Kane tombstone’d Bryan three different times, outside of a match!

Kane wants to keep things focused on the present, not the past. If they are to win against Harper & Rowan, they need to focus on what unites them. But, Kane tried to kidnap Brie… “Tried”. They’ve had their differences, but Kane has always had Bryan’s back. No he hasn’t. Yes he has. No… Yes… No…! Yes…! NO. YES. NO! YES! Repeat. The Usos appear?!

Jimmy & Jey knew this was gonna happen. The Big Red Machine and #SweetBeats D-Bry, back in the tag team division. The tag team division just got hot! Remember when those two were the hottest team? Hell Yeah. But also argued a lot. Hell Yeah. And then the “YES YES” shirts versus the “NO NO” shirts. Hell Yeah! Is everyone excited for them to be back as a team? Hell Yeah! Do they deserve an opportunity at the titles? Hell NO!! Because The Usos know a lot has changed in five years. They’ve got SmackDown #OnLock, welcome to the Uso Penitentiary! Paige gave these two a shot at Extreme Rules just because they hugged!? The Usos have been hugging since they were two years old. They hug now! As a matter of fact, bring it in three more times. There, that’s four hugs, which is four more title shots!

It must be hugging season on #SDLive!@WWEUsos isn't too happy that #TeamHellNo was granted an #SDLive #TagTeamTitles opportunity at #ExtremeRules… pic.twitter.com/KFeaajfCL5

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

That’s not what hugs mean. But if the Usos disagree, why don’t they come in and fight Hell No right now? Kane speaks up, because “what Daniel means” this is a team consideration and will get back to them. Kane doesn’t think he’s ready? Or is it that Kane thinks Bryan is the weak link?! Bryan has done so much since Kane was last here! But here comes GM Paige!

She didn’t mean to interrupt, but as GM, the Glampire has the obligation to do what’s right for the WWE Universe. Therefore, Team Hell No will face Harper & Rowan for the titles. But they do need to prove themselves, against the Usos in the main event! By the way, Jimmy & Jey, if you two win, you’ll be added to the match for a Triple Threat Tag! Fans are the ones who love that the most! Will the Penitentiary #LockDown Hell No and another chance at the Bludgeon Brothers? Or will Kane & Bryan say #HellNo to that?

Got it LOCKED DOWN, Uce?!? If @WWEUsos defeat #TeamHellNo TONIGHT, they will be added to the #SDLive #TagTeamTitles Match at #ExtremeRules! @RealPaigeWWE @WWEDanielBryan @KaneWWE pic.twitter.com/gnhwWEZkvE

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Jeff Hardy speaks.

“The bald eagle is a powerful, aerial beast, soaring on thermal convection currents” with eyes able to spot prey up to two miles away. It is also a symbol of America’s ferocity, so as we celebrate this great nation’s independence, Hardy will carry this other symbol with great pride. “I am in search of my next prey.” And in exchange, he offers up the symbol. The challenge is now open! Who will accept!?

Proud to represent the 🔴, ⚪️, & 🔵… #USChampion @JEFFHARDYBRAND will hold an #IndependenceDay #USOpenChallenge… NEXT! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/JkHbO7T2zI

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Asuka speaks.

“Men, women. Sexist pig!” It doesn’t matter who she faces. She makes them all feel pain! James Ellsworth will not be ready for Asuka! Is the Empress of Tomorrow going to kick off Ellsworth’s head before coming after the FABULOUS Princess’ throne?

WWE United States Championship Independence Day Open Challenge: Jeff Hardy VS ???

The Charismatic Enigma must still wait for the King of Strong Style to recover. But he will not sit quietly, for he hungers for challengers. And on the eve of Independence Day, the champion faces… The Hollywood A-Lister, The Miz! The Miz was a WWE US Champion in the past, can he bring it back around again?

The perfect leading man…@mikethemiz has officially ACCEPTED @JEFFHARDYBRAND's #IndependenceDay #USOpenChallenge! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/I9TIBvVFrQ

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we begin! Miz and Hardy circle while fans rally up already. They tie up, and Miz knees low. Miz clubs Hardy to a corner, then stomps away. He brings Hardy up, whips and goes for a hip toss, but gets a jawbreaker from Hardy. Hardy kicks low and goes for the Twist, but Miz pushes out. Miz runs in but misses, then hits the mat while Hardy goes up. Miz manages to stop Hardy, then climb up. Hardy resists the superplex to knock Miz down. Hardy readjusts, but Miz rolls away. Miz catches his breath while we go picture in picture.

Hardy waits for Miz to return, because Miz will have to if he wants the belt. Miz slides in but slides out, so Hardy pursues. They go back in and Miz is there to stomp Hardy out. Miz backs off at 4, and Hardy staggers to the ropes. Miz is on him with a sleeper hold, but Hardy fights back. Hardy goes to run but Miz yanks him down by his hair. The ref reprimands Miz, but Miz just stalks Hardy for the low boot. he misses, Hardy rolls up, TWO. Hardy kicks low, but Miz again escapes the Twist. Miz slips back out of the ring to catch his breath again. Hardy waits, but again Miz baits him into cat and mouse. Miz runs, and catches Hardy with knees. Miz throws Hardy back out, then runs to try the wrecking ball. Hardy dodges, then clobbers Miz with a haymaker.

Hardy catches his breath against the announce desk, then climbs up to the apron. He fires the fans up before leaping onto Miz with a lariat! Hardy refreshes the count, then bounces Miz off the announce desk several times! When he’s done, he puts Miz back in the ring. Cover, TWO! Hardy keeps on Miz with a chinlock. Miz endures, stands up and powers out. Miz gets Hardy with the kitchen sink knee, then takes his time catching his breath. We return to single picture as Miz mocks the DELETE. He brings Hardy back up, and goes to bump him off buckles. Hardy turns it around to bump Miz in one corner, then another, then another. Hardy gets all four corners and gives Miz more and more buckle bumps! Miz is down, and fans chant “DELETE! DELETE!” Miz knees Hardy then low boots! Cover, TWO!

Miz keeps on Hardy with a knee and half surfboard. Fans rally for Hardy as he endures the stretch. Hardy powers up to his feet, then fights against the hold. Hardy turns it around on Miz, but Miz turns it back around and brings Hardy to his knees. Fans rally again, and Hardy powers up again. Hardy turns the hold back around once more, but Miz kicks low. Miz swings but Hardy counters and hits back. Hardy gives more haymakers, then a kick, then a whip. Miz reverses, but Hardy hits back with forearms. Hardy atomic drops, and leg-splitting leg drops on top! Dropkick added, cover, TWO! Hardy whips Miz but Miz kicks him away. Miz runs but is dumped outside. Hardy builds speed and hits the baseball slide! Miz hits barriers, but Hardy isn’t done. DELETE leaping attack, but Miz sends him into barriers!

Not even @JEFFHARDYBRAND could predict this "twist of fate!" #SDLive #USOpenChallenge @mikethemiz pic.twitter.com/9L9sPmRcGX

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Hardy is down while the count begins. Miz drags Hardy up while we go to break.

SmackDown returns as both Miz and Hardy slowly stand in the ring. Hardy hits Miz with the spinning back kick, but both men are down again. Fans rally for Hardy as he and Miz brawl on their knees. They go back and forth, and brawl as they stand up. Hardy gets the edge, but Miz counters to the full nelson. Hardy throws him off and hits a corner clothesline. Miz sits down, here comes the Hardyac, but Miz kicks it away. Miz runs out, but into the Twist- No, full nelson, but Hardy rolls! TWO, DDT from Miz! Cover, TWO! Miz gets up, runs in, and hits the A-List clothesline. Hardy staggers out while Miz climbs up. Miz leaps, but Hardy gets under. Hardy elbows back, then Whisper in the Wind! Cover, TWO!

Hardy isn’t sure what to do now, but he doesn’t lose hope. He takes off the shirt and calls for the Twist. Miz stands, Hardy kicks low but Miz again denies the Twist. He rolls Hardy, but feet on the ropes! The referee spots it and stops the count! Miz thinks he’s won, but the referee points out he saw Miz was cheating. Miz protests but runs into Twist of Fate! Hardy climbs up, SWANTON BOMB! Cover, Hardy wins!

Winner: Jeff Hardy, by pinfall; still WWE United States Champions

The second open challenge for the champion, and the champion is still the same. Hardy keeps his momentum red hot, will he be able to keep it going all Summer? Or will someone shut him down before the Fall?

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸-MADE! @JEFFHARDYBRAND retains his #USTitle in the #IndependenceDay #USOpenChallenge! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/0WoMR3k8qh

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

James Ellsworth speaks.

Men are the superior specimen. Men have stronger muscles, bones are tougher, brains are bigger–especially his. Women aren’t ready for Asuka, but he’s all man. The Battle of the Sexes when he puts Asuka in her place. #MellaisMoney, and #EllsworthisExquisite. Generalizing aside, is this “man” really ready for one of the most dangerous women in WWE today?

Byron Saxton is in the ring.

As everyone in America knows, July 4th is Independence Day. But tonight, the New Day has requested time for a special something: The Inaugural 3rd of July Pancake Eating Contest! Therefore, welcome the Patriots of Positivity! Awwwwww~ Omaha! Don’t you dare be sour, clap for your four-time champs, and feel~ the power~!

Big E, Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods bring out patriotic pancakes that are red, white and blue, then hit the ring. Byron makes the introductions for Kofi Kingston and his long list of accolades, as well as “the Doctor of Defenestration” Xavier Woods and the abridged version of Big E’s intro. Five minutes on the clock, and the rules are as follows: they will each have that time to eat as many pancakes as possible. They must swallow all the pancakes and NOT throw up. Big E has red, Xavier has white and Kofi has blue. “New Day, are you ready!?” YES!! WWE Universe, are you ready!? YES!! Then… GO! The New Day shoves pancakes into their mouths, but then the lights go out! Why? Because SAnitY is here!

And they ambush from behind! Young, Wolfe & Dain toss each member of the New Day around, and then throw Big E and Kofi out. They pick up Woods, and throw him into the legs of the table! Big Damo throws Big E into steps, while Young chokes Woods on the ropes. Damo isn’t done, he tosses Big E over the announce desk! Young holds Woosd to watch Wolfe feed Kofi to Damo’s Divide! And finally, the table is set back up so that they can bring Woods over. Damo bounces Woods’ face off the table, and he and Wolfe hold Woods for Young’s flying elbow drop through the table!!

There's nothing sweet about the CHAOTIC ending to #TheNewDay’s 1st Annual 3rd of July Pancake Eating Contest… #SDLive #SAniTY @TheEricYoung @KillianDain @TheWWEWolfe @XavierWoodsPhD pic.twitter.com/mY78gUiESb

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Anarchy annihilates this inaugural pancake eating party, will SAnitY turn this into the Summer of Chaos?

Asuka VS James Ellsworth w/ Carmella!

Ready, @realellsworth? #SDLive pic.twitter.com/7E8qwSFk7k

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

It’s a Battle of the Sexes for a new generation as the Empress of Tomorrow looks to get payback at the “Exquisite” Ellsworth for the Money in the Bank screw job he helped the FABULOUS Princess pull. Will Ellsworth’s comments earlier tonight be his famous last words?

Did you REALLY think #SDLive #WomensChampion @CarmellaWWE was going to miss this #BattleOfTheSexes match? pic.twitter.com/IX68zyGhI2

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

And to add fuel to the fire, Carmella makes sure to make her own entrance separate from Ellsworth to then trash talk the Empress. She joins commentary while Ellsworth does some last stretches. Ellsworth then rolls up his sleeves and asks for the bell. The bell rings, he pumps up, but Asuka shoves him down! Ellsworth gets out of the ring, but Carmella orders him back in. He obeys, but runs into strikes from Asuka! Ellsworth retreats again, but Carmella angrily orders him to man up. He takes off his shirt, “mans up”, and circles with Asuka. He gets a waistlock, but Asuka elbows out to then throw palm strikes from all sides!

Asuka back kicks, fireman’s carry, and spins around! She dumps a dizzy Ellsworth down, and he’s close to throwing up. Asuka SLAPS him! And then backhands him! Ellsworth escapes again, but Asuka pursues! They run into the crowd! Asuka chases the lankly Ellsworth, but the ring count reaches 10!

Double Count Out

But wait, they come back! And Asuka gets in arms length, only for Carmella to shove Asuka down! The Princess trash talks Asuka, then drags Ellsworth away. Granted, Ellsworth is wearing his wrestling trunks, but it’s clear Carmella still wears the pants in this relationship. Will Asuka get her revenge on them both when Extreme Rules comes around?

One of these days, @WWEAsuka will get her hands on @CarmellaWWE & @realellsworth… #SDLive #AsukavsEllsworth pic.twitter.com/aVFhmDsbL8

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) July 4, 2018

Kane and Bryan meet backstage.

Bryan has diagrams for tonight’s match? No, there’s no time for that. They need to get on the same page. Kane needs to apologize. For what? Bryan reveals those papers are a timeline of all the times Kane mistreated Bryan! Kane stops Bryan’s list of grievances, and apologizes. For which one? For them all. They’re like brothers. But, Kane set his brother, Undertaker, on fire once. Well, he knows what that means! The Usos are at the top of their game. One mistake, Hell No loses. When they’re united, no one can stop them! It doesn’t matter if it’s been 5 or 50 years, they’ve created a fire no one can extinguish. And then, they will be tag team champions. Now, is Bryan ready for the Usos? “YES! YES!”

AJ Styles VS Aiden English w/ Rusev!

Untouchable. #SDLive @AJStylesOrg pic.twitter.com/HjNzcS4G7P

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

The Bulgarian Brute earned his first shot at a world title in the Gauntlet Match a few weeks back, and did his best to be respectful to the Phenomenal WWE Champion. However, MC Artiste wasn’t so respectful, and got a haymaker for it. Now the Drama King looks to show Styles isn’t as phenomenal as advertised. Will English perform a symphony of sorrow for Styles? Or will Styles roll on towards an extreme Rusev Day?

Styles speaks before the match, saying that at Extreme Rules, he will defend against someone bigger and stronger. “But what else is new?” That’s what makes it fun, right? Styles likes proving people wrong. Rusev said he’ll break down the House that AJ STyles Built, and take that belt away. What does he think this is? A rental property? Now, Rusev is a Super Athlete, but he’s not Phenomenal. Before Styles can say more, Rusev & English appear! Rusev doesn’t care how phenomenal Styles is, he hasn’t faced “this Rusev.” This Rusev has his first WWE world title opportunity, and it’s going to be on Rusev Day. Rusev meant what he said about breaking down the door and evicting Styles to move in to the House that Styles Built.

"At #ExtremeRules, I'm coming to break down the door, evict you, throw you out on the street, take that title, and move into the house that YOU'VE built!" Quite the game plan from @RusevBUL… #SDLive @AJStylesOrg pic.twitter.com/Ur9Rt5oQe7

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) July 4, 2018

English, what day are they moving in? Rusev Daaaay~! Rusev leaves the ring to English and the bell rings. But one last thing. English ambushes Styles! Never mind then. English stomps Styles, then brings him up for more while we go picture in picture.

The referee backs English off while Styles gets out of the ring. English waits, but only a moment. He goes out to attack Styles, but Styles puts him into barriers. English clubs Styles back, and both men go into the ring. English has Styles in a corner and fires away. He whips Styles corner to corner, and Styles hits buckles hard. English drags Styles up for more haymakers, but Styles chops back! Styles backs English down, throws haymakers, then whips. English reverses but Styles clubs him again. Styles kicks English down, then brings him up for forearms. He waistlocks but English switches. Styles bucks English but English holds on by the waistband to then club Styles in the back again. English hits a swinging neckbreaker, covers, TWO!

English keeps his cool as he drags Styles up. He knees low, then pushes Styles for another kidney shot. He goes again and hits another shot while we go single picture. Fans duel between Styles and Rusev Day, and Styles elbows back. Styles throws hands and kicks, then runs, but into a kick from English. English suplexes Styles up, but Styles gets on the apron. Styles shoulders in, slingshots up and over, but into a full nelson slam! Cover, TWO! Rusev coaches English as English puts Styles in a chinlock. Fans rally up for Styles but they still duel. Styles fights back, bobs and weaves, for the Phenomenal Blitz! English goes down, and Styles adds the sliding forearm! English gets to a corner, but Styles is on him with a corner clothesline to Ushigoroshi!

But Styles won’t cover there, he brings English up for the Clash. English counters, but gets countered back, Calf Crusher! English endures the pain, but he taps! Styles wins!

Winner: AJ Styles, by submission

But Rusev strikes! He drags Styles out to then throw him into the post! MACHKA KICK! English may have failed to win, but the Bulgarian Brute is still softening up Styles for himself. He puts Styles in the ring, for the Accolade! Styles doesn’t tap, but he does fade out. Will this happen again at Extreme Rules to crown a new WWE Champion?

The IIconics speak.

Selfie cam! Smile! Or, no, game face. Peyton Royce vows to expose Becky Lynch as a has-been sidekick who deserves to be kicked to the side. The IIconics are beautiful from all angles, but they have a nasty side, too. Peyton will do her best to hurt Becky, and that will be something to smile about.

Carmella reprimands Ellsworth.

But then Paige finds them. She likes this vibe, using a man to protect her title. But Ellsworth can’t run away for long, he has a rematch with Asuka. And since he’s “such a ladies man”, he’ll make his wildest dreams come true. Imagine: the ring is surrounded by all the women of SmackDown. Yes, it’ll be a Lumberjack match! Ellsworth claims to be ready for Asuka, but will he be ready for the entire SmackDown Women’s Division?

Becky Lynch VS Peyton Royce w/ Billie Kay!

The Lass Kicker already has a win over one-half of the Iconic Duo, but can she get the sweep?

The bell rings and the two circle. Peyton powers Becky to a corner then rams her shoulder in again and again. Becky dodges to hip toss Peyton down. Billie swipes at Becky but Peyton runs in. Becky rolls Peyton, ONE. Becky knees low then whips Peyton to a corner. Peyton puts Becky on the apron but Becky shoulders back. Billie distracts Becky but Becky gets her to back down. Becky climbs up but Peyton intercepts! Fireman’s carry, rolling Death Valley! Cover, TWO! The IIconcis are furious, but Peyton keeps on Becky with knee strikes. Peyton glares down at Becky as she kicks her around. Fans rally for Becky, but Peyton puts her in a standing abdominal stretch. Becky endures, pops out and snapmares Peyton down.

Peyton crawls to ropes an drop toeholds Becky into them. She chokes Becky on the ropes, but backs off at 4. Becky crawls but Peyton is on her with a snapmare and seated abdominal stretch. Becky endures while fans rally up again. She and Peyton stand, Becky rolls, TWO. Becky headbutts low, then again. Peyton dodges the third to shove Becky. Becky narrowly avoids the heel kick, then blocks the next kick into a Becksploder! Fans fire up as Becky kicks. Becky whips but Peyton holds ropes. Peyton kicks, but then runs into a kick from Becky. Becky runs in but gets boots. Peyton hits a knee on the run, then drags Becky up again. Scoop to the fireman’s, but crucifix into Disarm-her! Peyton taps, Becky wins!

Winner: Becky Lynch, by submission

And there’s the #IIconicSweep for the Lass Kicker! Becky is straight fire as of late, can she burn a path straight to the title?

Burn bright, girl on 🔥! #SDLive @BeckyLynchWWE @PeytonRoyceWWE pic.twitter.com/PmDbnCqdph

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Shinsuke Nakamura speaks.

The King of Strong Style wonders why Hardy paints his face. Is he a clown? Is he insane? Or is Hardy just ashamed? Extreme Rules, Nakamura vows to strip away everything, from pride to honor to the United States Championship!

The Usos VS Team Hell No!

UP NEXT: Can @WWEUsos LOCK DOWN their opportunity to challenge The #BludgeonBrothers for the #SDLive #TagTeamTitles? pic.twitter.com/vWKvk9tdRE

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Two tag teams that have dominated their respective runs in the Tag Team Division are set to collide! Kane & Bryan will still have their shot at Harper & Rowan for the titles, but can they keep the Uso Penitentiary from going extreme?

It's just like ol' times for #TeamHellNo @WWEDanielBryan & @KaneWWE as they join forces against @WWEUsos RIGHT NOW on #SDLive! pic.twitter.com/EWiRKUyaeC

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

The bell rings and Bryan starts against Jimmy. The two circle and tie up, and Jimmy gets a headlock. Bryan powers out but Jimmy runs him over. Jimmy runs but Bryan drop toeholds into the leg half of the surfboard. Bryan grabs the arms, and brings Jimmy up all the way! He then drops Jimmy down to tag in Kane. Bryan holds Jimmy for Kane to boot! Kane brings Jimmy up for his uppercut, then stomps a mudhole in the corner. Tag to Bryan, and Kane whips Bryan in for a dropkick. Bryan brings Jimmy up but Jimmy gets him tot he Uso corner. Tag to Jey and Jey forearms Bryan. Jey then runs, but Bryan meets him with a dropkick! Bryan tags Kane, and the Big Red Machine brings Jey up for a scoop slam. Kane drops the elbow, but misses.

Jey tags Jimmy, and Jimmy climbs up. Jimmy leaps, but into Kane’s grip! Jey, too, and Kane pushes both Usos out! The Usos drag Kane out to beat him down, but Bryan comes in. Bryan misses Jey and gets an uppercut from Jimmy. Jey runs, builds speed and DIVES on Kane! Jimmy does the same, to DIVE on Kane! Kane goes down, and the Usos have control while we go to break.

SmackDown returns once more, and Bryan backs Jimmy down with haymakers. Jimmy whips Bryan corner to corner but Bryan goes up and over. Things speed up and Bryan takes Jimmy down with the leaping lariat. Bryan runs in for the corner dropkick, then kicks away. Bryan stops at 4, then hoists Jimmy up top. He climbs up to join Jimmy, and just manages the SUPER Steiner! Bryan fires up again, and gives Jimmy proper YES Kicks! He kicks and kicks, then goes for the buzzsaw, but misses. Jimmy shoves and Bryan ends up on the apron. Bryan fights off Jey, but gets Jimmy’s Dragon Whip kick! Bryan goes down, and Jimmy tags Jey. Jey runs over to Bryan to run him over with a clothesline.

Kane can only watch as Jey stalks Bryan. Jey chops Bryan then puts him in the ring. He drags Bryan up for a scoop slam, then more stomps. Jey tags in Jimmy, and the Usos stomp away on Bryan. Jimmy runs in for the hip attack! Cover, TWO! Jimmy keeps on Bryan with a chinlock. Fans rally for Bryan as Bryan reaches for his corner. Jimmy holds on and even hops on, but Bryan still walks forward. He and Kane reach out for each other, but Jimmy throws Bryan down by his hair. Jimmy tags Jey, and Jey climbs up. Jimmy brings Bryan up, backbreaker to ax handle chop! Jey tags Jimmy back in, and the Usos split the wishbone. Jimmy brings Bryan up, whips him, but Bryan dodges to build speed, double crossbodies take them both out!

FULL SPEED COLLISION!! @WWEUsos @WWEDanielBryan @KaneWWE @TeamHellNovsTheUsos #SDLive pic.twitter.com/hb851CJjaW

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

Fans rally up as both men crawl for their corners. Hot tags to Jey and Kane! Kane rallies on Jey, whips and boots him down. Kane hits a corner splash, then the sidewalk slam. Cover, but Jimmy breaks it. Kane uppercuts Jimmy away, but Jey dropkicks Kane out. Kane is back on his feet, but Jimmy DIVES! Only for Kane to send him into barriers. Jey tries but runs into a right hand. Kane gets back in the ring, and stalks Jey with choke slam on deck. He grabs Jey by the throat, but Jey fights out. Jimmy tags in, SUPERKICK! Kane only staggers, but the Usos see Bryan. Bryan flies in, but into double SUPERKICKS! The Usos see Kane, SUPERKICKS! Cover, TWO!

Jimmy is surprised, but he and Jey tag again. Jey and Jimmy climb up opposite corners, aiming for Kane. Double UCE– Into double hands! Kane feeds Jimmy to the KNEE PLUS, CHOKE SLAM for Jey! Cover, Team Hell No wins!

Winners: Team Hell No, Kane pinning

YES YES YES, Hell No wins. But Bryan wants Kane to mean it when he celebrates. Kane does it strong, and then they hug it out!

YES! for #TeamHellNo! NO! for @WWEUsos!

The #SDLive #TagTeamTitles match at #ExtremeRules will just be between #TeamHellNo and The #BludgeonBrothers! @WWEDanielBryan @KaneWWE pic.twitter.com/4zwDwxpays

— WWE (@WWE) July 4, 2018

But wait, here come the Bludgeon Brothers. Harper & Rowan, armed with their hammers, take a good hard look at their lone challengers. No more celebrating, because doom is on the horizon. Will Team Hell No be brought into their own tag team apocalypse? Or will they introduce Harper & Rowan to hellfire, brimstone and a lot of heart?

My Thoughts:

A pretty solid SmackDown, and certainly in comparison to last night’s Raw. The opening segment made a lot of sense, other teams should be upset that Kane & Bryan get a shot at the titles already without really earning it. Granted, the Usos have had their own chances, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t earn another like Paige put out there tonight. The main event was a great match, and given Kane’s hoss monster style, his ring rust didn’t really show compared to the faster Bryan and Usos. With this win, Team Hell No earns their shot, but that buzzkill appearance by Harper & Rowan definitely assures this match is going to be great on physicality alone.

Hardy and Miz put on a great match, but of course Hardy keeps the title to face Nakamura at Extreme Rules. I think Nakamura’s little bite at the screen was a reference to that dog attacking. It’s rather serendipitous, really, because now their match can happen at the PPV rather than on TV. That pancake eating contest becoming a SAnitY raid was actually brilliant. Now we’ll get the hottest trio in a long time against the hit NXT trio, because why not? Ellsworth VS Asuka did not go how anyone hoped, but that’s okay, we’ll get even bigger and better satisfaction next week in that Lumberjack match. Styles VS English went as expected, but I hoped Rusev was going to stay Face in this feud. Granted, Heel Rusev has always been his strongest persona, but Face VS Face is so rare in WWE I wish they’d give it a try.

Becky VS Peyton was at a very fast pace, but that was for the sake of time. Great to see Becky on this roll, but with her going up against single members of duos, I’m expecting something to happen that calls Charlotte to the rescue, and we get #TeaGenerationX taking on The IIconics and/or Mandy-Sonya for a right at Women’s Tag Team Championships. Essentially, the Women’s Divisions will parallel each other in some way again, and we get one Raw team and one SmackDown team for the inaugural champions. The Four Horsewomen going 2v2 against each other would be pretty cool, but at the same time, Bayley & Sasha have their own feud to worry about first. Maybe it’ll be two members of Riott Squad against Becky-Charlotte instead, which will still be fun.

My Score: 8/10

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Up Next

Mitchell’s WWE 205 Live Report! (7/3/18)

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Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Report! (7/2/18)

Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (3/27/25)

Is there a new Minion in town?

Published

2 hours ago

March 27, 2025

Steven Mitchell

Diamante wants to work with Athena?

The ROH Women’s World Champion has Billie Starkz, but it seems Diamante wants to change that. Will she make herself Minion Numero Uno?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Six Man Tag: Atlantis Jr, Fuego & Titan VS Barbaro Cavernario, Rugido & Volador Jr; win.
The Dark Order VS The Premier Athletes w/ Mark Sterling; win(s).
Six Man Tag: Dustin Rhodes, Sammy Guevara & Willie Mack VS Johnny TV & MXM Collection; win.
Dark Panther VS Okumura; wins.
Queen Aminata VS Viva Van; wins.
Athean & Diamante VS ???

PLAY BY PLAY

[Due to scheduling conflicts, coverage will be on delay]

About Chairshot Radio Network

MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)

TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)

WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)

THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)

FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)

SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast

SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast

CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS

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

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

Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5

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Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!

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Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE Evolve Results & Report! (3/27/25)

Evolve enters the Fourth Dimension!

Published

7 hours ago

March 27, 2025

Steven Mitchell

The only true constant is change!

As WWE Evolve itself continues to evolve, NXT General Manager Ava hands the reins over to new management! What will “The Prime Minister” decree?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Sam Holloway VS Wolfgang w/ Joe Coffey; Wolfgang wins.
Kendal Grey VS Zara Zakher; Kendal wins.
Layla Diggs & Aria Bennett VS Haze Jameson & Kalyx; Layla & Aria win.
Sean Legacy VS Timothy Thatcher; Legacy wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Ava Raine talks with Stevie Turner backstage.

The NXT General Manager tells her assistant that she has been absolutely phenomenal the past couple of weeks. The matches she’s pitched, the talent she’s acquired, and she even has an OG Evolve Champion on the show! That is very impressive. With that said, Ava feels it is time for the next step in Stevie’s journey. Ava asks Chuey Martinez to accompany Stevie out there for the big announcement, and he says absolutely. Stevie is surprised by all this, but the two head out on stage. Chuey says, “Make some noise, Evolve, make some noise!” The superstars are ringside as well, and Chuey says this is a special announcement.

Ladies and gentlemen, the NEW Evolve General Manager! It’s Stevie Turner! Stevie is so surprised! It is an absolute honor to be the new GM of WWE Evolve! The fact Ava put her trust in Stevie, not Robert Stone, makes this so much sweeter. If the last few weeks have been anything to go by, this is truly where pro-wrestling evolves! And it will continue to be that way under Stevie’s leadership! Everything is up for grabs! Who will take the top spots? Who will be in eventual title contendership? And who will be the first-ever Face of Evolve?! The fans cheer that, and Stevie says that all comes down to who impresses her, and the fans.

So let’s get things kicked off with two men who were after it a few weeks ago. That’s Wolfgang and Sam Holloway! Let’s do that… NOW! Fans cheer for “MEAT! MEAT! MEAT!” But will Wolfie be able to put Gallus Boys On Top? Or will Holloway prove he’s the Alpha Bully?

While these two big men step into the ring, the other superstars exit, and two other big men cross paths. Harlem Lewis and Keanu Carver stare down, then they start shoving! Referees and even Luca Crusifino step in, but that only gets Luca on Keanu’s radar. Other superstars step in to keep them from getting physical, and Evolve goes to break. Are all these combustible elements going to make Evolve explode?

Sam Holloway VS Wolfgang w/ Joe Coffey!

Evolve returns and the bell rings. The fans rally behind Wolfgang as he and Sam tie up. They’re in a deadlock so they break. The fans chant for “MEAT! MEAT! MEAT!” as the two tie up again. The two go back and forth, and Sam puts Wolfgang on the ropes. The ref counts, Sam lets off, but the two tie up again. Wolfgang puts Sam on the ropes, the ref counts, and the two break. Joe Coffey coaches Wolfgang as he and Sam tie up again. Wolfgang headlocks, but Sam powers up and out. They RAM shoulders, and the fans fire up as neither man moves! They RAM again, and again, and again! Fans chant “SLAP THAT MEAT! SLAP THAT MEAT!”

Sam ROCKS Wolfgang, but Wolfgang ROCKS Sam! The forearms go back and forth, Sam CHOPS, but Wolfgang CHOPS back! The CHOPS keep going now, then Wolfgang RAMS down low! Wolfgang UPPERCUTS, UPPERCUTS, and then runs in at the corner, CROSSBODY SPLASH! Sam staggers, Wolfgang ROCKS him from the apron! Wolfgang climbs the corner, takes aim, and he FLYING AX HANDLES! Sam only drops to one knee?! Wolfgang hurries to get him for a clinch, but Sam fights it! Sam whips and BOOTS Wolfgang down! The fans boo but Wolfgang goes to the apron. Sam storms out after him as the fans boo more.

Sam stands Wolfgang up, scoops him, and SLAMS him on the apron! Wolfgang writhes and slumps to the floor! Sam soaks up the heat while Joe checks Wolfie. Joe coaches Wolfgang but Sam storms up to RAM Wolfgang into the POST! The fans boo more but Sam puts Wolfgang in the ring. Sam goes up the ropes and ELBOW DROPS! Sam stomps Wolfgang around, then drags him up for a scoop. Sam SLAMS Wolfgang, covers, TWO! The fans rally behind Wolfgang but that just annoys Sam. Sam pushes Wolfgang around, slaps him, then pie faces him. Wolfgang glares at Sam, and RAMS low! Wolfgang UPPERCUTS, then fireman’s carries!

But Sam’s so big! Sam slips free, and has the COBRA TWIST! Wolfgang endures, even as Sam digs knuckles into the ribs! Wolfgang fights against the hold, the fans rally harder, and Wolfgang switches the COBRA TWIST, only for Sam to HIP TOSS! Cover, TWO! Sam talks trash on Joe, asks where Markus went, but Joe says he’ll knock the smack talk right out of his face! Wolfgang fires body shots, then rises up, but Sam KNEES low! Sam whips Wolfgang to a corner, runs up, but Wolfgang ELBOWS him! Wolfgang goes up, FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE! The fans rally as both men stand. Wolfgang blocks a shot to fire forearms!

The fans rally as Wolfgang has Sam in a corner for heavy hands! The ref counts, Wolfgang stops at 4, then runs in, only to be put on the apron! But Wolfgang slingshots in! Only for the back to give out! Sam reels Wolfgang in, but Wolfgang fights the suplex! Sam HALF HATCH SUPLEXES Wolfgang into the corner! Cover, TWO! Wolfgang survives and the fans fire up again! Sam drags Wolfgang up, RAMS him into the corner, and RAMS him again and again! The ref counts, Sam stops at 4, then he hoists Wolfgang up top. Sam ROCKS Wolfgang, then climbs up. But Wolfgang fights the suplex!

The fans rally as Wolfgang fires body shots in return! Wolfgang CLAWS Sam’s face, then HEADBUTTS him down! Sam flops into the drop zone, and Wolfgang hits the HOWLING SWANTON! Cover, Wolfgang wins!

Winner: Wolfgang, by pinfall

It’s Gallus Boys On Top because they know how to grit through the pain! “Hard Way” Holloway found out the hard way, but is this enough for Wolfgang to impress Stevie Turner? The Iron King also wants to remind everyone that he knocked out Mr. Oasis. Send anyone that wants a scrap, they’ll be ready for it! Will Evolve soon be Gallus’ Kingdom?

Aria Bennett talks with Layla Diggs backstage.

Aria asks Layla what’s up, and Layla says she needs some help from the coaches. She cannot lose on Evolve like she did last week. Aria agrees, she did not like the way her match with Wendy went. Layla says this is the place that catapults their careers into the spotlight. Aria says catapult, slingshot, springboard, c’mon now. But Aria figures they can turn this around, they pool their resources, and then get in the ring together. Layla is feeling it, and they head into the gym together. Will they become a dynamic duo here tonight? Or will they take another loss, this time to Haze Jameson and the debuting Kalyx?

Kendal Grey VS Zara Zakher!

With Carlee Bright cheering her on from the VIP Lounge, the grittier Grey is taking on the Petite Powerhouse. Zara’s been helping Kylie Rae watch out for Wendy Choo, but will she be able to focus on this match? Or will Kendal keep up her own momentum and really impress Stevie Turner?

The bell rings and the fans rally. The two tie up, Kendal waistlocks and SLAMS Zara down. Kendal holds on, but Zara switches. Kendal switches back, but Zara stands up to pry at the hold. Kendal facelocks, but Zara wrenches out to facelock. Kendal grabs a leg, rolls Zara up, ONE! Zara and Kendal DOUBLE DROPKICK, those cancel out, and so they double kip up! The fans fire up while the two circle. Kendal shoots in and waistlocks, half nelsons, then spins Zara to a wristlock. Zara fights up, rolls, kips up, and then wrenches to wristlock. Kendal rolls, rolls and handsprings, then wrenches. Zara wrenches, whips, but Kendal blocks the hip toss to fireman’s carry takeover!

The fans cheer this technical display as Kendal has Zara down with an armlock. Zara endures, fights around, but Kendal grinds the arm. Zara fights up, powers Kendal to ropes then arm-drags free. And arm-drags again! And again! Zara has the armlock now and the fans cheer. The fans rally as Kendal endures, fights up, and powers Zara to the ropes. Kendal whips Zara, drops down, then DROPKICKS! Zara scrambles to a corner, Kendal storms up to CHOP! The fans fire up as Zara CHOPS back! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Zara whips, handsprings, and ELBOWS Kendal in the corner! Then snapmare to a basement DROPKICK! Cover, TWO!

Zara clamps onto Kendal with a facelock. The fans rally and Carlee cheers Kendal on. Kendal fights up, wrenches free, and serves up SOLE FOOD! Zara falls over, Kendal hurries after her, and Kendal drags Zara up. Kendal hammerlocks and RAMS Zara’s arm into the corner! Kendal drags Zara up to hammerlock and RAM her into buckles again! Kendal then reels Zara in for a snap suplex! Float over to the cover, TWO! Zara is still in this, but Kendal drags her around by the bad arm. Kendal goes to suplex but Zara blocks! Zara wrenches, but now Kendal fights the suplex! Kendal wrenches and YANKS the bad arm!

Kendal hauls Zara up, reels her in, but Zara suplexes first! The fans rally while both women rise. Zara fires forearm after forearm, then whips. Kendal reverses but Zara CLOBBERS her! And LARIATS! Zara then ducks a shot to ROCK Kendal! Kendal goes to a corner, Zara runs in, UPPERCUT! Zara whips Kendal, but Kendal KICKS her! Kendal runs, but into a SPINEBUSTER! Cover, ONE!! Kendal gets away to the apron but Zara storms after her. Kendal RAMS into Zara, SLINGSHOT SUNSET, but Zara sits on it! TWO, and Kendal finishes the sunset, TWO! Zara avoids a boot to ENZIGIRI! Zara drags Kendal to a drop zone, and she goes up top!

Zara takes aim, for the FROG- NO, she has to roll through as Kendal moves! Kendal BOOTS Zara in the face! Kendal then runs back up to ARMBAR TAKEDOWN!! Zara TAPS, Kendal wins!

Winner: Kendal Grey, by submission

From the first win on Evolve to this big win here tonight, Kendal is kicking things up a notch! Kylie Rae walks out to encourage Zara, but then they both spot a teddy bear sitting in one of the corners…! When did Wendy sneak that bear there? And why is she obsessed with Kylie?

Drako Knox pops in on commentary.

Pete Rosenberg asks how he is, and Knox says he’s doing great. But he does have something to say and they’re gonna let him say it. Robert Stone says go ahead. Knox says last week was the biggest opportunity of his life. A chance to make a name for himself. A chance to change his life. That opportunity came as he teamed with Tate Wilder against Tyson & Tyriek. When Knox gets in that ring, he feels alive. He feels a hunger he hasn’t felt since his college gridiron days. When he connects fist to face, that’s a good feeling! Now, he knows the results didn’t show what he wanted, but he can handle that. He can learn and grow from it.

What he can’t handle is that big, no-name goof just sitting in the VIP Section, thinking he can show them up! Tate’s out with injury, so Knox is here for himself. If anybody thinks they can show him up, he’ll handle that. Whoever that was, whatever their name is, let’s handle it in the ring! Is Knox calling out the bouncer? We also see Swipe Right & Zayda Steel scooting into said VIP Section. Will Brad Baylor & Ricky Smokes be adding on more trolling as Knox just simply tries to make a way?

There are even more VIPs!

As WWE Evolve returns from break, Ice Williams joins Swipe Right in watching the action from the posh couch behind the velvet ropes. But does he really vibe with Swipe Right? Or is it just the fact there’s limited seating?

Layla Diggs & Aria Bennett VS Haze Jameson & Kalyx!

We saw how Layla & Aria decided to become gym partners, and now they’ll try out being tag partners. They already gel together, but can they win together? Or will the Wild Child find a way to make it work with her mysterious masked partner?

The teams sort out and Kalyx starts against Layla. They tie up, Kalyx waistlocks but Layla switches and shoves Kalyx to the corner. Haze offers a tag, Kalyx refuses and storms up on Layla. Layla drop toeholds, but Kalyx stays up! Kalyx drags Layla up by her hair, whips her to ropes, and then hip tosses, but Layla arm-drags through! And DROPKICKS! Tag to Aria, and she gets a boost from Layla for the MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Aria keeps on Kalyx with an armlock, but Kalyx fights up. Kalyx pulls on the tights to put Aria on the ropes! Kalyx ROCKS Aria, tags Haze, and then whips to ELBOW Aria down! Haze hurries to Oklahoma Roll, TWO!

Haze clamps onto an arm, but Aria rolls, kips up, and arm-drags! Haze comes back, into another arm-drag! Aria fires up and arm-drags again, but Haze slips through to headlock! Haze thrashes Aria but Aria fights up. Aria fires body shots but Haze CLUBS her down. Haze swings on Layla but Layla gets away. Haze hurries to tag Kalyx, then she brings Aria around. Haze snapmares Aria for Kalyx’s BASEMENT SHOULDER TACKLE! Cover, TWO! Aria survives but Kalyx looms over her. Haze takes a drink break? Kalyx is upset with Haze but Haze says Kalyx has got this. Except Aria crawls, and hot tags to Layla!

The fans fire up as Layla dodges Kalyx, kicks low, then reels Kalyx in! Suplex for the SIT-OUT GOURD BUSTER! #DiggitySplits! Cover, Diggs & Bennett win!

Winners: Layla Diggs & Aria Bennett, by pinfall

Haze can’t believe it, but she’s the one who dropped the ball here. She’s now 0-2 while Layla & Aria turn things around together. Kalyx is furious and she shoves Haze aside. Will James get out of her haze and focus on the ring?

Sean Legacy VS Timothy Thatcher!

When Ava mentioned Stevie got a former Evolve Champion to return, surely the WWE Universe was not expecting THE longest reigning Evolve Champion, the most dominant and fearsome champion, The Professor of Pain! Thatcher isn’t here for popularity contests, he’s here to win! Will “Super Sean” survive what Thatcher is about to put him through?

The big fight introductions are given as Thatcher stares daggers into Sean. The bell rings and Sean DROPKICKS Thatcher right away! And PENALTY KICKS! And STANDING MOONSAULTS! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up for this fast start, and Sean hurries after Thatcher, only for Thatcher to trip him up! Thatcher rains down fists and forearms, then KNEES him in the back! Thatcher KICKS Sean in the back and Sean writhes. Thatcher stands Sean up, UPPERCUTS, then whips. Sean redirects on a dime and dropkicks a leg out! Then he DOUBLE STOMPS and basement DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO!

The fans rally as Thatcher goes to ropes. Sean storms up, whips, but Thatcher reverses. Sean ELBOWS back, then he TOSSES Thatcher out! Thatcher hurries up onto the apron, Sean goes after him, but Thatcher fights the suplex. Thatcher ROCKS Sean, but Sean slips under to YANK Thatcher down! Sean slides in, builds speed, and DIVES! Down goes Thatcher and the fans fire up! Sean checks his jaw while Evolve goes to break.

Evolve returns and Sean has Thatcher in a corner. Thatcher UPPERCUTS Sean away, then goes to another corner. But Sean storms up to CHOP! Sean ROCKS Thatcher, Thatcher BODY BLOWS Sean! Thatcher CLUBS Sean down, then TOSSES him to the apron. Thatcher storms up, Sean ROCKS him, then Sean springboards, only for Thatcher to swat the missile dropkick! Thatcher drags Sean up for a BIG back suplex! Cover, TWO! Thatcher clamps onto Sean’s legs, ties them up, and then fishhook’s Sean’s face! The ref counts, Thatcher pulls Sean into a BOW ‘N’ ARROW! Sean endures, pries at the grip, but Thatcher makes it a cover, TWO!

Sean is free but Thatcher hurries to hammerlock. Thatcher puts Sean on the ropes, fires a BODY BLOW, then another BODY BLOW! The fans are torn as Thatcher brings Sean around and snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Thatcher keeps Sean down with a wristlock, but also a knee in Sean’s face! Sean fights but Thatcher bends the fingers! Thatcher JAMS the fingers into the mat! The fans rally as Sean goes to the ropes. Thatcher drags Sean from the ropes, grabs the bad hand again, and he stands Sean up. Thatcher CLUBS Sean, CLUBS him again, then UPPERCUTS! Sean staggers to ropes, but Thatcher is on him.

Sean fires haymakers and forearms! The fans fire up as Sean fires off, then CHOPS in the corner! Thatcher ELBOWS Sean back, clinches, and then rebounds off ropes for the BELLY2BELLY! Cover, TWO! Sean stays in this but Thatcher stays on him with a chinlock. Sean endures, Swipe Right mockingly coach him, but the fans rally up. Sean pries at the hold, but Thatcher grinds and twists Sean around! Sean endures, the fans rally, but Thatcher shifts around to get a cover, TWO! Thatcher KNEES Sean right in the back! Thatcher continues to torture Sean with a straitjacket stretch! Sean endures, the fans rally up, but Thatcher pulls on the arm!

Sean fights up, but Thatcher spins him around into a facelock GUILLOTINE! Sean goes to the ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Sean DUMPS Thatcher out! The fans fire up as Thatcher rises. Sean runs up to ROCK Thatcher, but Thatcher ROCKS Sean! They go back and forth, then Thatcher DECKS Sean. But Thatcher falls off the apron! Thatcher flounders back up, gets to the ropes, but Sean is on him! Sean suplexes Thatcher up and in! The fans fire up as Sean rises, and he runs up to rally with FOREARM after FOREARM! The fans rally for “LEGACY! LEGACY!” as he kicks, KICKS, and SNAP BACK SUPLEXES!

Sean hurries to the apron, he takes aim as Thatcher rises, and Sean springboards, MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Thatcher survives and the fans fire up! Sean thinks on what he has to do, but this is the longest-reigning Evolve Champion ever. Thatcher rises, Sean torture racks, but Thatcher headlocks! Thatcher then slips around to UPPERCUT Sean in the back! Thatcher runs in, Sean goes up and over to GAMANGIRI! Thatcher staggers, Sean torture racks again! SHAMBLES!! Cover, SEAN WINS!

Winner: Sean Legacy, by pinfall

Even Swipe Right have to admit, that was an impressive win. Sean gets another big win in Evolve’s main event, and perhaps bigger than that, he just won Thatcher’s respect! Will Sean’s legacy include becoming the new face of Evolve? Wait, Swipe Right hops the railing to bark at Sean more. They go to the ring, but Sean has back-up! Cappuccino Jones & Jack Cartwheel back up Sean! Ice Williams figures he might as well get in on this. Ice steps into the ring, this is a good 3v3, until Ice says nah, 4v2! Ice likes Sean’s vibe better than Swipe Right’s, so Swipe Right bails! Will Baylor & Smokes show them what happens when you don’t swipe right?

My Thoughts:

Another very good episode for Evolve, and I’m a little surprised they decided to have a new authority figure. I’m not sure if this is too soon or not soon enough, but it is still a great move for it to be Stevie Turner given everything she’s done character wise. Great opening match from Holloway VS Wolfgang, and very good win for Wolfgang. While we haven’t even gotten WWE Evolve singles champions, they obviously have plenty of great choices for tag champions, too, with Gallus hanging around and Swipe Right doing stuff. Kendal & Carlee might have their break-up because of what titles are available, so Kendal gets a strong win off Zara to make her case. And good bit with that teddy bear “mysteriously appearing” to keep Wendy on our minds.

Layla & Aria had a great tag team debut, they have the athleticism and in-ring charisma that can make them future women’s tag team champs. “Kalyx” is certainly a mystery. There was talk when that name was registered that it was for referee Jessica Carr as she starts on her own wrestling journey. If that is Carr, she did a good job playing a menacing Heel, even in losing because of Haze’s story that she’s still too party girl and not serious enough yet. Not sure “Kalyx” is the best name, though, it’s literally one letter off from Sol Ruca’s legal name. Why not add to the mystery and give her a much more mysterious name? “Lady X” comes to mind, even if it’s a bit cheesier.

Very good promo from Knox, and a shame if Tate Wilder really did end up injured, as fans already took quite a liking to “Cowboy Tate.” But Knox also calling out the bouncer and/or Swipe Right is good stuff, too. Swipe Right love hanging out in the VIP Section but I feel like they need to be less college preppy and more red carpet and suits. And good move from Ice Williams turning on them to be a Face. Legacy VS Thatcher was a great main event, great to see Thatcher back in the WWE and I hope Thatcher goes right to NXT to start where he left off. Cappuccino Jones & Jack Cartwheel sticking together is good stuff, too, I wonder if they become an official tag team.