Coverage
Mitchell’s NJPW AXS TV Results: G1 Climax 28, parts 7 AND 8!
AXS gives us ANOTHER double dose of NJPW! It’s Days 14 and 15 as we get Naito VS Ibushi, Omega VS Ishii, Okada VS EVIL and Tanahashi VS Elgin!
This coverage of the G1 Climax 28 will be as broadcast by AXS TV.
Gifs can be found on http://frentique.tumblr.com/
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- B Block: Kenny Omega VS Tomohiro Ishii; Ishii wins.
- B Block: Tetsuya Naito VS Kota Ibushi; Ibushi wins.
- A Block: Jay White VS Togi Makabe; White wins.
- A Block: Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Michael Elgin; Tanahashi wins.
- A Block: Kazuchika Okada VS EVIL; Okada wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
NJPW and AXS TV set the scene for B Block!
The IWGP Heavyweight Champion, Kenny Omega, is on a win streak with his 12 points, keeping even his opponent, Tomohiro Ishii, out of the running. However, the Stone Pitbull won’t just roll over, because he could be a spoiler for Omega’s chances while also earning himself a title match down the line. Omega won their last battle at the 2017 G1 Special, where Omega was crowned the inaugural IWGP United States Heavyweight Champion. Will Ishii fare better in this round robin format? Or will the Best Bout Machine win his way into his third G1 Climax finals appearance in a row?
In the main event, it’s the G1 Climax 27 Champion, Tetsuya Naito, and the Golden Star, Kota Ibushi. They’re the other contenders for B Block’s spot in the finals, but Naito needs this win if he’s to overcome the loss to Omega early on. As for Ibushi, he’s been on a hot streak of his own since reuniting with the other Golden Lover. Will Ibushi spoil Naito’s chance to repeat while also seizing his own future? Or is it just Destino that Naito will Tranquilo in the finals again?
Kenny Omega VS Tomohiro Ishii!
No time to waste as this rematch of the IWGP US Championship Tournament begins. The bell rings and fans already cheer for Omega as he stares Ishii down. The two tie up, and Omega puts Ishii on the ropes. He plays around with Ishii’s bald head, but Ishii swats his hands away. Omega backs up as Ishii stares him down, then they tie up again. Ishii puts Omega against the ropes, but Omega ducks the chop to give more playful head pats. Omega gives some playful slaps, but Ishii isn’t amused. Omega chops and kicks but it doesn’t back Ishii down. He keeps trying, but nothing works. Ishii dares him to keep going, so Omega gives a forearm. Omega gets a headbutt and staggers to the ropes. Ishii runs but Omega sees him coming. Things speed up but there’s a slight miscalculation. The two back off and reset.
They tie up and Omega puts Ishii in a corner. Omega chops but Ishii barely flinches. Omega chops again then gives elbows, but Ishii only bends over. They whip corner to corner but Ishii blasts out with a shoulder. Omega narrowly avoids the silding lariat and just misses hitting V-Trigger. He pushes Ishii, then gives head slaps. Ishii swings on him but Omega gets under to then get a facelock, but it’s Ishii who suplexes Omega! Fans applaud while Omega gets to ropes. Ishii slaps Omega around now, messing up that hair. Then he chops Omega in a corner hard, and follows Omega to another. Ishii chops again, and again, dangerously close to the throat. He toys with Omega now, then bumps him off the buckle pad. Ishii gives another blunt chop, but Omega rakes his face.
Omega puts Ishii in the corner but Ishii roars out. So Omega gives him a DDT! Cover, TWO, but Omega has wrist control. Omega fireman’s carry, “You Can’t Escape!” Rolling senton and moonsault hit! Cover, TWO! Omega keeps on Ishii with a camel clutch. He grinds it side to side but Ishii endures. Ishii dares Omega to try harder, so Omega pulls back. Fans rally up for Ishii as he further endures. Ishii pries his way out of Omega’s grip, then dares Omega to go after him. Omega kicks Ishii in the back, but Ishii wants more. Omega stomps an dkicks, but Ishii just shakes his head. More kicks and stomps but it just amuses Ishii now. Ishii gets up and chops Omega! Omega chops back and it finally gets through. Omega whips but Ishii reverses, to a powerslam! It was more of a throw, but it did the job.
Ishii chops and forearms Omega in the corner again and again. He whips corner to corner but Omega reverses, only for Ishii to fire out and get a back suplex! Cover, TWO! Omega barely got out of that cover, but Ishii is on him again. Ishii powerbomb lifts, but they teeter back. Omega slips off but Ishii hits, only to run into a huricanrana! Ishii goes out while fans fire up with Omega. The Terminator drums echo and Omega rises. Omega runs and FLIES! Direct hit at the ramp! Omega gets up and puts Ishii in the ring. Fans fire up again as Omega runs and hits the Kotaro Krusher! Cover, TWO! But Omega keeps going as he drags Ishii up. But Ishii powers Omega to a corner! Ishii chops and chops, so Omega gives a sharp chop back! Ishii roars, Omega spits!
Omega gives forearms but Ishii barely flinches. Omega keeps trying but his arm is the thing getting hurt. Ishii blasts Omega with one big forearm, then finally feels some of that pain. Ishii drags Omega up and whips him corner to corner, but Omega boots him away. Omega runs out but into a waistlock, and a German Suplex into the buckles! Both men drag themselves out of the corner, but Ishii is on Omega. Ishii hoists Omega up top, then climbs up to join him. SUPERPLEX! Cover, TWO! Ishii takes aim and runs, but Omega dodges to run, running DDT hits! Omega stands and vows to end this. He grabs Ishii in a full nelson, but Ishii breaks free to backwards headbutt Omega! But Omega comes back with a V-Trigger!
Omega wants the Kotaro Krusher again but Ishii slips out to German Suplex! Ishii runs, but Omega boots, only to get a discus lariat! Omega sits down and Ishii runs for the sliding lariat! Cover, TWO!! Ishii was so close and the fans can feel it. The fans are thunderous as Ishii drags Omega back up. Ishii suplexes but Omega fights out. Omega forearms Ishii, but Ishii standing switches to copy the Electric Chair! He wants to steal the One Winged Angel! Omega slips down to heel kick Ishii in the back of the head, and Ishii stumbles to a corner. Omega takes aim and runs in, V-Trigger! He hits Ishii in the back, but drags him out for bomb position. Omega lifts, Dr. Wily Bomb! Cover, TWO!! The Pitbull shocks the champion while we go to break.
NJPW on AXS returns and Omega drags Ishii back up. Omega gives him a close-range V-Trigger! But Omega isn’t done there, he gives Ishii another V-Trigger! Ishii falls over and Red Shoes checks on him. Ishii isn’t giving in, so Omega sits him up again, for a third V-Trigger! But Ishii stands up! Omega is shocked, but he gives Ishii a fourth V-Trigger. Omega runs, but Ishii follows, to clothesline him at the ropes. Ishii runs, but Omega V-Triggers! Omega runs, ducks the clothesline and gives another V-Trigger, right into the Snap Dragon Suplex! But Ishii’s right up, only for Omega to clothesline him down! Cover, TWO!! Ishii does not die easy, but Omega won’t give up.
Omega lifts Ishii for the Electric Chair, but Ishii slips down to headbutt Omega in the back! Ishii throws Omega with his own Dragon Suplex, but Omega returns with a huricanrana, that Ishii just makes a powerbomb! Both men are down and fans are thunderous again. Red Shoes checks on them both, but doesn’t start a count as he sees them both stirring. Omega and Ishii slowly sit up, and stare each other down. Ishii headbutts but Omega forearms. Ishii headbutts again, and Omega forearms again. Omega drags Ishii up for a standing forearm, then another. Ishii staggers and wobbles, but stays on his feet. Omega chops Ishii, but Ishii suddenly fires off forearms from both sides! Omega throws haymakers then the Reverse-Rana! They’re both down again, but Omega is up first.
Omega loads up and takes aim, “BANG!” He runs, for a V-Trigger! Ishii ends up on the apron, but Omega keeps on him with slingshot double stomps! Omega rests against the railings while fans build to a rally. He drags Ishii up and in, then climbs up top. Omega aims, for more double stomps! He keeps going, Aoi Shoudou! Cover, TWO!! Omega is shocked and furious as he brings Ishii up in the Electric Chair. Ishii slips out again, to an inverted suplex. Omega slips out to backslide and V-Trig– No, Ishii blocks! Omega forearms, goes for the Trigger, but Ishii throws him with a German Suplex! But Omega lands on his feet, to V-Trigger again! Cover, TWO!! Butterfly Driver!! Cover, TWO!? Ishii refuses to let even this stop him!
Omega grits his teeth while fans rally up again. He brings his knee pad down, and backs off. Omega runs back in, for an even more dangerous V-Trigger! Cover, TWO!! Omega can’t stand it as he has to drag Ishii back up. Electric Chair again, but Ishii fights out to a crucifix takedown! Cover, TWO!? Ishii can’t believe that didn’t end this. Both men crawl as fans hit a fever pitch. Ishii gets to a corner and stands. He fires himself up, but Omega covers up as Ishii throws heavy hands. Omega blocks to V-Trigger one more time, but then runs into a pop-up headbutt! Ishii gives another headbutt, then a HUGE clothesline! Cover, TWO?! Omega also refuses to go down. Ishii drags Omega up in a facelock, but Omega suplexes Ishii! Cover, ONE!!
Ishii gets to ropes again, but Omega runs, into another clothesline! Omega stands by instinct, wrenches the arm but gets a headbutt. He still gives a V-Trigger but gets an enziguri for it. Omega swings, but Ishii turns him around into a brainbuster! Cover, ISHII WINS!!
Winner: Tomohiro Ishii, by pinfall; Ishii earns 2 points, Omega earns 0
Both men bleed from the lips, but it’s Ishii who gets a win over THE IWGP Heavyweight Champion! Ishii may not be in the G1 Climax Finals, but he now has a legitimate claim to a title match. But if it took this much for Ishii to win here, how much will it take to take that title away from Omega? As for Omega, he’ll likely need stitches for that busted lip, but are his chances of getting into the finals busted now, too?
Backstage interview with Kenny Omega.
“There it is. You guys love your underdog stories, huh? There you go. Hope your happy.” Clearly Omega isn’t happy about this blemish on his record, but there’s still time. Can he turn it around? Will he be ready for another rough rematch with the Pitbull in the future?
Tetsuya Naito VS Kota Ibushi!
Los Ingobernables de Japon’s charismatic leader defeated the Golden Star in last year’s G1 Climax round robin on his way to the finals. He looks to repeat that here, but not if Ibushi has anything to say about it. Will both Golden Lovers lose on the same day? Or will Ibushi shine bright to move up the ranks?
The bell rings and fans duel between these two mega stars. Naito and Ibushi slowly circle. They tie up quickly, and Ibushi gets a waistlock. Naito reverses to an arm wrench and a wristlock. Ibushi rolls and works to wrench it back but Naito kicks low then rakes the eyes. Naito throws forearms then whips Ibushi corner to corner. Ibushi goes up and over then speeds up. Naito dodges the clothesline and the kick to Tranquilo already. Ibushi isn’t amused, but Naito wants him to fist bump. Ibushi doesn’t so Naito bails out. Naito walks around the ring while Ibushi keeps an eye on him. Naito teases returning, but then wants Ibushi to give him space. Ibushi does while Red Shoes starts a count. Naito waits until 8 and then fires off on Ibushi. He whips Ibushi but Ibushi reverses.
Things speed up again and Ibushi dropkicks Naito down! Naito rolls out again but Ibushi slingshots out. Naito gets on the apron but Ibushi adjusts to join him. Ibushi elbows Naito, then takes aim at the apron. Naito resists the German Suplex by holding ropes then fighting with elbows. Ibushi kicks but Naito blocks to put it in the ropes, then Naito dropkicks Ibushi’s other leg out! Ibushi tumbles to the floor while Naito rests on the apron. Naito fetches Ibushi and has camera men move aside. He puts Ibushi’s leg on the railing to kick it! Fans boo but Naito doesn’t care. He stomps Ibushi, then opens the gate. Naito brings Ibushi around to the announce tables and throws him into the English table! Naito practically bowls Ibushi over Kevin Kelly!
Red Shoes counts and Naito leaves Ibushi outside. Ibushi drags himself up and hobbles his way back to the ring. He gets in at 11 but Naito is on him with stomps. Naito takes that bad leg and stomps right on the knee while smashing it on the mat. Naito repeats the knee smash stomp and Ibushi writhes in pain. Red Shoes checks on Ibushi but Naito stomps Ibushi to ropes. Naito puts Ibushi in the corner for back elbows. Naito stomps a mudhole into that bad knee, then drags Ibushi back up for more elbows. He stomps the knee again, then backs off. He drags Ibushi back up and out, turns him around, for the backbreaker and dropkick! Cover, TWO and we go to break.
NJPW on AXS returns as Naito toys with Ibushi. Red Shoes reprimands him and fans boo him, but Naito only spits and taunts at them. Naito drags Ibushi up but Ibushi fires forearms. Naito fakes a punch to give a kick, then goes back to the leg. He spits on Ibushi before elbowing the knee. He runs and aims for the leg, but Ibushi manages to hop over his slide. Ibushi still gets a kick, but manages to double stomp Naito on the run! Both men are down as Naito writhes and Ibushi catches his breath. Fans rally up and Ibushi sits up slowly. Ibushi brings Naito up and they start brawling with forearms. Naito hits, Ibushi hits, Naito hits, Ibushi spin kicks. Ibushi whips but Naito reverses, only for Ibushi to running roundhouse Naito down! Ibushi standing moonsaults, covers, TWO!
But Ibushi keeps focus as he drags Naito back up in a waistlock. Naito resists the German Suplex and fights out, then runs at Ibushi in the corner. Ibushi puts up boots but Naito blocks them. Naito turns Ibushi around and gives him a draping neckbreaker! He keeps on Ibushi but Ibushi fights out to huricanrana! Naito rolls back out of the ring but fans rally for Ibushi. Ibushi fires up and takes aim, for the Golden Triangle Moonsault! He hits Naito down but he’s down from exhaustion. Fans cheer while Red Shoes starts a count. Ibushi gets up and hobbles after Naito. The count hits 13 as Ibushi brings Naito up, and he puts him in at 14. Ibushi climbs up, but Naito stops him! Naito positions Ibushi and elbows away at that knee. Naito climbs up to join Ibushi but Ibushi grabs Naito’s leg.
They fight each other, and Ibushi dumps Naito down. Naito stays on his feet, but Ibushi drags him back up and around. Ibushi has Naito but Naito fights out! Naito trips Ibushi and he hits the mat! Naito hops right up top, aims, and leaps for the missile dropkick! Then the jump kick, sweep and swinging dropkick! Naito drags Ibushi out for a modified Figure Four! Ibushi endures the unique kneebar, but then Naito slaps him. Ibushi slaps back and it’s a figure four slap fight. They slap back and forth but Ibushi fires off with both hands from both sides. Naito puts more torque into the hold then spits on Ibushi. Ibushi drags himself to the ropes, but Naito holds on until 3.
Naito smirks as he brings Ibushi back up. He grabs the leg but Ibushi denies the shinbreaker. Naito elbows Ibushi back, then goes for the rope-assisted tornado, but Ibushi powers out. Ibushi runs but into the atomic drop. Naito whips but Ibushi reverses, only for Naito to leap with forearms! Naito drags Ibushi back up, hammerlock and GLOR– No, Ibushi escapes Gloria to give Naito a BIG Half Nelson Suplex! The Golden Star evens things as we go to break.
NJPW on AXS returns as Ibushi crawls over to Naito. He gives a forearm, and Naito gives one back. Ibushi goes again, but Naito elbows back. Ibushi gives yet another forearm, but so does Naito. They both stand now, and Ibushi gives another forearm. Naito hits Ibushi but Ibushi quickly kicks back. Naito forearms again, but Ibushi quickly kicks agian. Another forearm for another kick, then Ibushi fires off more kicks. Naito kicks Ibushi’s bad leg, then grabs it. Ibushi fires back with forearms but Naito spits right in his face! Fans boo and jeer but Naito just gives another forearm. Ibushi suddenly fires off a strike fest! Ibushi runs but into Naito’s wheelbarrow. But Ibushi blocks it! Naito still rolls it through and has Ibushi in the package, for the driver! But he doesn’t cover?
Naito smirks as he brings Ibushi back up for for the hammerlock and GLORIA! He still smirks as he still doesn’t cover. He drags Ibushi up again, and suplexes him to the ropes! For a draping neckbreaker! Cover, TWO!? Even Naito is surprised, but he won’t let that stop him. He drags Ibushi up but Red Shoes has him back off. Red Shoes checks on Ibushi, but somehow Ibushi is still good. Naito drags Ibushi up by his hair, wrenches the arm but Ibushi roundhouses! They both fall, and fans rally up. Ibushi drags himself to his feet as he grits his teet. Naito also stands in the opposite corner. Ibushi runs but into an alley-oop! Ibushi hits buckles and Naito enziguris him down! Naito drags Ibushi up, turns him around, but Ibushi fights off the inverted tornado to PELE!
Naito is dazed on the top rope while Ibushi fires himself up. Ibushi climbs up and positions Naito on the top rope. He tucks Naito in but Naito holds on for dear life! Ibushi gives Naito a forearm then tries again, but Naito just saves himself. They brawl now, returning to slapping strikes, then Naito goes after that bad leg. Naito stands and gets around Ibushi, for a SUPER Reverse-Rana, that Ibushi lands on his feet out of!! Ibushi clobbers Naito with a clothesline! Both men fall but fans fire up again. Ibushi crawls, blood in his mouth like Omega. He kicks Naito while he’s down in the corner. Ibushi then drags Naito up, in a waistlock, FOR A SUPER GERMAN!! Cover, TWO!!
Ibushi can’t believe it! But that just makes him more determined. He lifts Naito, for the Last Ride Sit-Out! Cover, TWO!! Ibushi is shocked again, but he stands back up. He drags Naito up as fans duel. Ibushi has the hands, but Naito dodges to DESTIN– No! Ibushi blocked the DDT and has hand control again. But Naito dodges Kamigoye a second time to tilt-o-whirl, DESTINO!! Cover, TWO!? Now Naito is shocked, but he just wants it more. He wrenches, tilt-o-whirl, but into Ibushi’s brainbuster! Fans fire up as Ibushi copies the King of Strong Style for a KINSHASA!! Cover, TWO!? Ibushi is all fired up, KAMIGOYE!! Cover, IBUSHI WINS!!
Winner: Kota Ibushi, by pinfall; Ibushi earns 2 points, Naito earns 0
The Golden Star overcomes and gets himself a total of 10 points! He’s up near the top, and just needs another win to earn his spot in the finals. Naito is taken away and Ibushi takes up a mic.
Fans chant “Ibushi! Ibushi!” as he catches his breath. “This is my first time on the mic in Osaka.” He makes a promise to everyone right now. He vows to win the G1 and return here as champion. Ibushi thanks the fans for his support as he has only two matches left in the round robin. However, one of those is going to be his best friend and fellow Golden Lover, Kenny Omega! That one match could determine the entire course of the Finals, who will seize their future with their own two hands?!
NJPW and AXS TV set the scene for A Block!
The race is one to determine A Block’s G1 Climax 28 finalist! Kazuchika Okada finds himself in a complete 180 from last year, as the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion is now coming back from a shocking losing streak. The King of Darkness defeated Okada last year to deny him a spot in the finals, but will history repeat itself? Or is the Rainmaker’s Redemption going to continue?
But before that, The Ace and the Unbreakable battle in an all Taguchi Japan match. Will Big Mike spoil the chances of another finals for Tanahashi? Or will the Once in a Century Talent prove that name right and overcome?
And what of the other contender, The Switchblade, Jay White? Will he lose to leave it between Okada and Tanahashi? Or will the Unchained Togi Makabe spoil the upstart’s uprising within Chaos? We jump into that important match, right now!
Jay White VS Togi Makabe!
NJPW on AXS takes us to a point where Makabe has White down but not out. Makabe runs but White counters and ducks to chop and saido suplex! Both men are down now but White is up first. White drags Makabe up and suplexes into the twisting brainbuster. Cover, TWO, and fans applaud for Makabe’s toughness. White grows frustrated, but he keeps on Makabe with forearms. Makabe dares him to give more, so White rocks him with another. Makabe eggs White on, and now White chops Makabe. White fires off forearms, but Makabe keeps egging him on. White keeps going, then runs, but his clothesline barely makes Makabe budge. Another try but still nothing. White goes a third time, but Makabe gives a clothesline back. Makabe runs but White ducks to chop and chop and chop. White runs but Makabe knocks him over!
Fans fire up as Makabe runs, but into a complete shot! White keeps going, deadlift German Suplex! But Makabe stands with White to run him over! Both men are down again, but Makabe roars his way up. Makabe puts White in the corner and up onto the top rope. Makabe climbs up to join him, but White holds on! White fights Makabe off with elbows, and Makabe falls into the Tree of Woe. But Makabe sits up for the Spider Belly2Belly! Makabe turns around but White uses Red Shoes as a shield. White then gets Makabe with strikes and prepares the Blade Runner, but Makabe counters with a German Suplex! Makabe clotheslines White again, then covers, TWO!
Makabe drags White up and scoops to slam. He goes back to a corner, climbs up top, and leaps! His knee drop misses! White rolls all the way out, and starts searching under the ring. He brings out chairs, and puts them in the ring. Red Shoes reprimands him, but White doesn’t care. Makabe ducks the swing to give lariats, one through the chair! Makabe then threatens White with the chair, Red Shoes stops him. White shoves Makabe into Red Shoes! White scurries away while those two fall over, and gets himself that second chair. SMACK in the face! White gets the chairs out of the ring and then has Red Shoes get back in. Blade Runner! Red Shoes counts, White wins!
Winner: Jay White, by pinfall; White earns 2 points, Makabe earns 0
The Switchblade uses another sneaky tactic to keep himself spotless in the round robin. He has one more match to go, can he make it to the goal?
Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Michael Elgin!
The Ace has won two G1 Climaxes before, and looks for his third. The Unbreakable “Big Mike” is out of the running but doesn’t mind being spoiler, even to a fellow main unit member. Will Elgin keep Tanahashi back? Or will Tanahashi keep his chances of a finals appearance going?
The bell rings and the fans chant for Tanahashi. He and Elgin circle then tie up. Elgin powers Tanahashi back, but lets his friend out respectfully. They go again, and Tanahashi calls for a test of strength. Elgin accepts and they tie up. They go shoulder to shoulder, but even with a bad shoulder, Elgin has power enough to put Tanahashi on his knees. Tanahashi comes back and puts both arms against Elgin’s bad one, but Elgin still has such strength! Elgin backs Tanahashi to the ropes, then they break. Tanahashi puts Elgin on the ropes, and they break. Elgin lunges for a headlock and takeover but Tanahashi rolls it to his own. They stand and Elgin lifts Tanahashi to the ropes.
Elgin powers out of the headlock then runs Tanahashi over, but Tanahashi’s right back up! Elgin runs him over again and Tanahashi still springs back up, but then staggers back. Tanahashi reverses Elgin’s whip and hip tosses Elgin down, then plays the air guitar. Both men stand and Tanahashi body shots Elgin to a corner. He whips corner to corner but Elgin reverses. Elgin runs into an elbow but catches Tanahashi as he goes up and over. Tanahashi fights his way out and goes to reverse-rana, but Elgin holds on with power! Elgin swings Tanahashi for an inverted Alabama Slam! Elgin walks around Tanahashi before bringing him back up. He lifts Tanahashi for a backbreaker. Cover, TWO, but Elgin keeps on Tanahashi.
Elgin brings Tanahashi up for the scoop slam, then he goes outside to slingshot splash! Cover, TWO but barely. Elgin keeps his cool and drags Tanahashi up again. Tanahashi gives body shots but Elgin chops him back. Elgin runs but into boots. Tanahashi fires forearms but Elgin gives another chop. Elgin whips but Tanahashi hits back with flying forearms. Tanahashi drops an elbow then a sommersault senton, cover, TWO! Tanahashi chops, but Elgin is too big for the scoop. Elgin scoops, Tanahahsi slips out, and they both kick. They both catch the kicks, then argue who lets go first. They decide to do it together, and then start again. Tanahashi ducks and chops, then forearms Elgin to a corner. He whips but Elgin reverses, to then dodge the dropkick on the rebound.
Elgin deadlifts but Tanahashi counters with a dragon screw! Elgin’s leg is also taped up so it’s another target for Tanahashi. Both men slowly sit up, and Tanahashi goes after the leg again. Elgin shoves him away then catches the kick, to give Tanahashi a dragon screw! Tanahashi has his own leg problems, so that was a good move from Elgin. Elgin drags Tanahashi up but they start brawling. Elgin hits, Tanahashi hits, repeat. Tanahashi kicks then runs, but into an overhead belly2belly! Both men slowly stand but Elgin runs in for a big corner clothesline. Elgin suplexes to a Falcon Arrow, cover, TWO! The battle of tag team partners continues as we go to break.
NJPW on AXS returns as Elgin brings Tanahashi back up. Elgin chops Tanahashi then lifts him to the top rope. Elgin climbs up but Tanahashi slips under! Tanahashi wants a high-angle German Suplex but Elgin holds on. Elgin fights Tanahashi off, then turns around. Tanahashi runs in, catches the foot, SUPER Dragon Screw! Elgin clutches his leg but Tanahashi isn’t done there. Tanahashi grabs the legs to Cloverleaf! He gets Elgin on his belly and pulls back. Elgin endures and uses his arms to drag himself forward. Tanahashi wrenches back and sits down into it, but Elgin powers back up! Elgin pushes himself off the mat and then pops Tanahashi off the hold! Tanahashi goes to the apron but skins the cat into headscissors! He drags Elgin over and down!
Tanahashi skins the cat again to return into the ring. Fans fire up as Tanahashi gets to a corner and the top rope. Elgin hurries in to stop him from jumping. Tanahashi fights Elgin off, but Elgin swing kicks Tanahashi back. Elgin climbs up and brings Tanahashi with him, for the SUPERPLEX! Tanahashi writhes from the impact, Elgin covers, TWO! Elgin feels hwo close he is, and fires himself up. Fans rally with him as he drags Tanahashi back up. Elgin prepares a powerbomb but Tanahashi grabs a leg. Elgin pries Tanahashi’s arms back for a double underhook, but Tanahashi back drops! Big Mike rolls through to high stack then deadlift, for the powerbomb! Cover, TWO! Elgin is surprised, but he grits his teeth as he works on what to do next.
Elgin drags Tanahashi back up, powerbomb lifts again, for a buckle bomb! But Tanahashi fires out for a slingblade! Cover, TWO! Crucifix! TWO! Both men are down, but they’re not done yet. Tanahashi is up first and goes after Elgin’s legs. Elgin forearms, but Tanahashi holds on, until the enziguri! German Suplex! Elgin holds on but Tanahashi fights with elbows. Elgin grabs thsoe arms, so Tanahashi blocks with a leg. He can’t tiger suplex, so Elgin swings Tanahashi out for a forearm! Elgin then powerbomb lifts, only for Tanahashi to slip out and hit the swinging neckbreaker! Slingblade!
Tanahashi is all fired up as he climbs to the top. He aims, Elgin stands, High Fly Flow crossbody! But Elgin rolls through and scoops! Tanahashi slips out and wants a full nelson. Elgin breaks free so Tanahashi changes to trapping the arms. Elgin breaks out of that, too! Tanahashi hits him with a palm strike, but Elgin comes back with a back hand! Elgin clobbers Tanahashi with a clothesline! Elgin takes off his elbow pad and prepares that wrapped but powerful arm. He has Tanahashi stand, then runs, for another big clothesline! Then a powerbomb lift, crucifix sit-out!! Cover, TWO!! Elgin can’t believe it, but Tanahashi survives. Elgin fires up again and drags Tanahashi back up. He goes for and hits another buckle bomb! Then a spin, but Tanahsahi drops off and rolls him up! Tanahashi wins!!
Winner: Hiroshi Tanahashi, by pinfall; Tanahashi earns 2 points, Elgin earns 0
It was by the skin of his teeth and the seat of his pants, but Tanahashi gets the win! He keeps ahead of Jay White, but there’s still one last round in the round robin. Can The Ace get through to get back to the finals? Or will he leave room for the Switchblade to slide in?
Kazuchika Okada VS EVIL!
The Rainmaker has gone through a dry spell since losing his IWGP Heavyweight Championship, but he still has hope. However, he faces the man who denied him passage to the finals last year, right at the home stretch. Will Okada continue to climb back from defeat? Or will he find out Everything is Evil?
The bell rings and fans are behind Okada already. Okada and Evil circle then approach, and Evil kicks low. Evil puts on a headlock, but Okada works against the hold. Evil drags him back in, but Okada fights with body shots. Okada powers out, but Evil runs him over with a shoulder. Evil runs and things speed up, but Evil still gets Okada with the lariat. Cover, TWO and already a close one. Evil brings Okada up just so he can clothesline him back down. He drags Okada up again, but Okada escapes the STO. Okada European Uppercuts and catches Evil into the Air Raid neckbreaker! Both men are down but fans are rallying. Evil and Okada roll out of the ring, but Evil is the one who whips Okada. Okada reverses only for Evil to reverse back, and Okada gets the railings!
Evil drags a chair out from under the ring, then puts it around Okada’s head. He throws Okada and chair into the post! Okada falls and Red Shoes reprimands Evil for that. Red Shoes checks Okada but Okada’s okay somehow. Evil waits in the ring while Okada slowly stirs. Red Shoes holds off on the count a moment, but starts it as he sees Okada is moving. The climb counts to 10 but Okada gets in at about 13. Evil drags Okada up and wrenches the arm a couple times. He wrenches a third time, then grabs the other arm for a half surfboard. Evil pushes and Okada’s face hits the mat. Cover, TWO! Evil grows frustrated with Red Shoes, but that was the count.
Evil drags Okada up and around for a chop. Okada staggers to a corner, and Evil chops him again. Evil chops a third time, and Okada falls to the floor. Cover, TWO! Evil brings Okada into a chinlock, bending him back with a knee. Evil pulls back as hard as he can but Okada endures. Okada stands up and fights out again, then runs, but into a sidewalk slam! Cover, TWO! Fans rally for Okada while Evil keeps his cool. Evil drags Okada up and turns him around, but Okada fights out. Evil kicks low then whips but Okada reverses into a DDT! Both men are down again, but Okada suddenly kips up!
Okada runs at Evil for a forearm smash, then elbow. He rallies with a whip but Evil reverses, only for Okada to come back with another elbow. Okada brings Evil up but Evil fights back. Evil runs but into the flapjack! Cover, TWO! Okada keeps his cool now, and goes to gut wrench. Evil blocks so Okada clubs and kicks him. Okada EuroUppers Evil to a corner, then gives Evil a back elbow. Okada lifts Evil but Evil kicks him first. Evil dodges a dropkick to drop the senton! LIJ’s King of Darkness is in control while we go to break.
NJPW on AXS returns and Evil joins Okada on the apron. Evil drags Okada up, but Okada fights back with body shots. Evil rakes Okada’s eyes, then gives him a leaping facebuster to the railings! It was double-edged as Evil hit just as hard. Red Shoes checks on both men but they’re both okay somehow. Evil sits up first, and drags Okada up and around the corner. They go to the ramp now, and Evil fireman’s carry. Okada slips out to kick and DDT Evil on the ramp! Fans fire up as Okada rolls to his feet and gets a running start, for the John Woo dropkick! Evil is sent rolling all the way back to the ring! Okada catches his breath while Evil clutches his ribs.
Okada heads back and fetches Evil at the count of 13 to put him in the ring at 16. He aims at Evil from a corner, then runs out for another dropkick. Evil ends up in the other corner, but Okada keeps on him. Okada puts Evil in the middle to then climb up top. He aims, for a missile dropkick! But Okada isn’t done with Evil yet, he gets the fans fired up! Okada brings Evil up but Evil again blocks the gut wrench. Okada clubs Evi’s back and completes the lift, but Evil slips down. Evil shoves Okada then uses Red Shoes as a shield. He mule kicks Okada then suplex lifts him onto Red Shoe’s shoulder! Magic Killer! Everyone is down, including Red Shoes. Red Shoes rolls out to recover while Okada and Evil slowly stand.
Evil runs in at Okada, but into Okada’s boot. He tries again but gets more boots, yet still hits a corner clothesline! Evil lifts Okada for Darkness Falls! Cover, TWO!! It was close but not enough. Evil sits Okada up to slash the throat, and bring him up. Okada denies the STO but Evil kicks and roaring elbows. Okada reverses the whip but Evil holds ropes to evade the dropkick. Evil runs, but into Okada’s waistlock and wristlock ripcord! Evil ducks the Rainmaker to STEAL the Rainmaker! Cover, TWO!! Okada’s own move doesn’t do it!! Fans fire up while Evil roars. Evil drags Okada up, half ‘n’ half suplex! Then with elbow pad off, Clothesline from Hell! Cover, TWO!! Okada survives again and it infuriates Evil.
Evil calls for the end, brings Okada up, and goes for STO again. Okada reverses and swings Evil out but Evil reverses to try another steal. Okada reverses, to STEAL the STO!! Cover, TWO!! Evil won’t lose to his own move, either! Both men are down again but Okada stands first. He dropkicks Evil in the back of the head, then gut wrenches to the Tombstone! But he’s not done, he swings Evil out again. Evil blocks but Okada stops the STO, only to get a left-hand lariat! Evil drags Okada up again, ST– Discus lariat from Okada! And, THE Rainmaker!! Cover, OKADA WINS!!
Winner: Kazuchika Okada, by pinfall; Okada earns 2 points, Evil earns 0
The redemption continues! Okada redeems himself for last year’s loss, as well as for the losses earlier in the tournament. With just round left, can Okada pull off the comeback of the century? Or will Tanahashi stand in his way?
Okada speaks.
“I can’t believe it. It’s unbelievable.” After a brutal match like that, the fans won’t go home. What’s up with that, Osaka? Does it look like he won that easily? Is he that strong? Is he just that amazing? Well then he’ll go ahead and say it. “Win number six!!” And he’s a bit dizzy now. But Okada’s sure this is going smoothly. He’s so smooth. The Okada they expected has returned. But he won’t be as strong or amazing as he was before. He’ll be even more than that! He will bring NJPW with him.
“One more G1 qualifier match.” Fans know it’s against Tanahashi, and are already dueling. Okada takes note of it. Rocky Romero says Okada, too, right? But he feels bad for Tanahashi now. But too bad for Tanahashi, because Okada vows to win it all! “Are you satisfied now? Because I’d really like to sit down.” Thank you very… much! Okada takes his leave and hopes to take the G1 Climax, but what will it take just to win the block?
My Thoughts:
Another great selection for two hours of NJPW on TV. They didn’t use time to review the other matches, but that’s because they couldn’t spare time given the matches advertised. At the same time, the only matches that matter at this point are those vying for the top spots in each block. B Block was another Golden Lovers night as Omega surprisingly loses to Ishii in a great gritty match, while Ibushi toughs it out to win against Naito. I liked that Ibushi got to speak, and he was aware he doesn’t get to do it often. So in character, he keeps his speech to the point. Ibushi has Tama Tonga then Omega, those are going to be great. Naito will soon face fellow LIJ member Sanada, that should also make for great story, no matter who wins.
I was a bit surprised they fit White VS Makabe for A Block, but that match was important to see to know that White was keeping pace. Tanahashi VS Elgin and Okada VS Evil were great, and very clean compared to White’s. It was great for story that Okada and Evil each stole the other’s finisher once but couldn’t win with them. Okada wins and gets to speak, confident that even with thought it’s Tanahashi he has left, he can win. The only way White gets in over either of them is if he and Okada win, given White’s early win over Okada is the tiebreaker. Anything else and Tanahashi’s in.
My Score: 8.8/10; 8.8/10; Overall = 8.8/10
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London calling to the champion crowns!
SmackDown brings gold to London as LA Knight defends his WWE US Championship and The Street Profits defend their tag team titles! Will the landscape change this close to WrestleMania?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly; The Profits win and retain the titles.
- Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice w/ Chelsea Green; The Secret Her-vice wins.
- WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman; Braun wins, by disqualification, and Knight retains the title.
- Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab; Charlotte wins.
- Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.
- Jimmy Uso VS The Miz; Jimmy wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes is here!
We follow The American Nightmare as walks to gorilla, then through the curtain, and London sings along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, says hello to fans along the ramp, and then we get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro. Cody goes to the ring, grabs a mic, then kneels down to kiss the WWE logo on the mat. The fans continue to sing along all the way to the end, “I AM MY KINGDOM!” The fans then cheer, and Cody holds up the belt to fire them up even more! The fans now sing for “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and he soaks it in. The fans cheer again as Cody smiles, and he finally says, “So, London~! Whaddya wanna talk about?”
The fans chant “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Cody hears that dueling, and he smiles again. The song of “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” returns, then they cheer. Cody says, “At WrestleMania 41, I will be facing John Cena…” The fans boo, but Cody says, “I will be facing John Cena as he goes to break the record and win 17. But that is WrestleMania 41. In just a few nights, I will be standing face to face with John Cena in this very same city, in this very same arena.” The fans cheer that, but then here comes Randy Orton! Now the fans sing along with Voices as The Viper heads to the ring. Orton also high-fives fans before he joins Cody.
Orton grabs a mic, paces while the fans keep singing on their own, and then the fans cheer. Orton says he’s not really the sentimental type, but for Cody and for London, screw it. The fans chant “R K O! R K O!” and Orton tells Cody, “Look at you. Look at who you are now, the man you are now. Look at where he came from.” The fans cheer and sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and Orton says he remembers a Cody in his early 20s, just breaking into the business. Cody was busting his ass harder than anyone else. He wasn’t exactly happy, and in fact, he was frustrated. But Cody was man enough, smart enough, to know he needed to grow, and that he couldn’t grow in the WWE.
Cody wasn’t exactly treated fairly in the WWE, so Cody left the WWE! That took some big ass balls to do what he did! Cody changed the business singlehandedly, and everyone in the back knows it. And Orton appreciates Cody for it. But then Cody came back, as they all knew one day he would. And the industry has been changed forever since the day Cody came back to the WWE. Cody is a bit teary eyed as Orton says Cody’s still the same guy, he just did what he set out to do, and he grew. Orton teases he would sing along with the fans, but the fans might leave. The fans again sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!”
Orton asks if they remember when Cody Rhodes faced Seth Rollins in Hell in a Cell. The fans cheer because they do. Orton says that was impressive, and even impossible, as he started with a partially torn pec and then ended with a fully torn pec! His body changed all kinds of shades of purple that Orton’s never seen on a human body. The pain he must have been in. Cody persevered not just for himself. Maybe not even at all for Cody. It was not even for his family legacy; it was for each and every single fan out there! Then Cody went on to WrestleMania, beat Roman Reigns and finished the story!
But there’s always another story, isn’t there? And Cody’s right in the middle of one. Cody is in charge of his legacy, and it is a privilege for Orton to watch Cody take control of it. Ticket sales have been up, there’s more intrigue around the world, and listen to the people! It is 99.9% all because of Cody! The fans cheer that, and of course they sing. Orton says what he’s trying to say is a long-winded version of he respects Cody, loves him, and is very, very proud of him. The fans cheer that! Orton then says, “But… But now it is time for WrestleMania.” They both look to the sign, and Orton says he can guarantee Cody that Orton will kick Kevin Owens so hard in the head…!
Orton can just feel it already! He forgets how many days are left, but he can’t wait to remove Kevin’s head from his shoulders. And Orton knows Cody will enter champion, exit champion, but not before he beats the holy hell outta Cena all up and down the Vegas strip! But after all the smoke clears and the dust settles, just like Orton wants Number 17, there will come a time when Orton will want Number 15. But Orton won’t kick Cody in the balls like a coward. Orton will look Cody in the eye because he respects Cody, is proud of Cody, and sees him as an equal. Orton will look Cody in the eye and tell him that he’s coming for the title.
The fans cheer but wait! Drew McIntyre is here! The fans cheer the Scottish Terminator as he steps out on stage, mic in hand, and has a wry smile on his face as he looks at the ring. Drew waves as the fans now sing, “OH~ Drew McIntyre~!” Drew says, “Isn’t this wonderful? A couple of nepo babies having a love fest in the middle of the ring> It makes me absolutely sick. What’d you just say, Randy? if Cody gets through Cena at WrestleMania, you’re coming for that title? What exactly have you done since that big comeback to justify that title match? Aside be Randy Orton. The only big moment I can remember is you being on the shelf for months and months and months.
“People like to make jokes about it, but more people talk about my five-minute-45-second title reign than your entire comeback so far! So get to the back of the line, sunshine! As for you, Cody, you should’ve listened to me. But you shunned me. You attacked me. Everybody should’ve listened to me about John Cena, but they didn’t. And the next night, he kicked you right in the twig ‘n’ berries, proving me right as usual. And the main event of WrestleMania should be Cody Rhodes VS The UK’s only ever world champion, Drew McIntyre!” Fans do like that idea. But sadly, it’s not, because of that guyliner wearing Temu Undertaker, Damian Priest!
Drew wants to talk about what is happening. And what’s gonna happen! Drew steps up to the ring while fans sing for him again. Drew says it will not be Randy that takes the title from Cody, should he get through Cena; it’ll be McIntyre. The fans cheer, but Orton says they were trying to have a moment. Can Drew just cut the crap already? Drew says okay, sure. He’ll tell the truth, because that’s all he ever does. The truth is, Kevin might have a point! If those Voices are talking to Orton again, then they know Drew very, very well. And he’s thinking, “My God, Randy looks great! Absolutely jacked! On the outside.”
On the inside, that back is hanging by a thread. And if Orton provokes McIntyre, McIntyre will break him. And as for Cody- Cody kicks Drew and UPPERCUTS him! The fans fire up, and Orton R- NO, Drew gets away! The fans boo, but the battlelines are drawn! Even if Cody makes it out of the frying pan that is Las Vegas, it’ll be into the fire that is these contenders waiting in line! Will the American Nightmare be ready for whoever comes for the crown?
WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly!
Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins are finally golden again, but it’s time to put the titles on the line already! And while they’re ready for the grind, they’re up against the hometown heroes! Will the Profits still be up in the O2? Or will Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say #YESBOY to a new reign of their own?
The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really wants the smoke!
The teams sort out and Kit starts with Dawkins. They tie up, Dawkins headlocks, but Kit powers up and out. Dawkins runs Kit over, the fans fire up, and Dawkins fires hands on Kit in the corner! The fans rally for Pretty Deadly, Dawkins whips Kit to a corner, but Elton takes that bump! Kit CLOBBERS Dawkins, then tags Elton! Atomic drop into DROPKICK! Ford runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Dawkins whips, Elton reverses, and then Elton hurdles so Kit can DDT! The fans fire up with Pretty Deadly while the Profits bail out. Pretty Deadly has control while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Elton is right on Dawkins as he gets in, and UPPERCUTS him to the corner. Elton clinches Dawkins for another UPPERCUT! Tag to Kit, and Elton RAMS into Dawkins so Kit can UPPERCUT! Dawkins flops over, Kit drags him up to wrench the arm. Kit whips, Dawkins reverses, but Kit grabs ropes. Kit ELBOWS Dawkins, DECKS Ford, but Dawkins CLOBBERS Kit! The ref reprimands but Dawkins RAMS Kit into the corner again and again! The ref counts, Dawkins fires fast hands, then he tags in Ford. Ford says, “SUCK IT!” then he KICKS Kit! Ford scuffs Kit, then drags him to a cover, TWO!
Ford keeps Kit down with a facelock, but Kit endures the grind. Kit fights up, fires body shots, but Ford whips him away. Kit sunset flips! Ford rolls through, and PENALTY KICKS! Ford mocks Elton with the Scott Hall fingers, and the ref has to keep Elton back. Ford drags Kit up, tags Dawkins, and the Profits mug Kit. Dawkins CLUBS Kit down, then stalks him. Dawkins stays between Kit and Elton, then whips Kit into the Profits’ corner. CYCLONE- NO, Kit dodges! Ford tags in, he keeps Kit from Elton now, but Kit slips out of the suplex! Kit fakes high to go low, hot tag to Elton! Elton rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT!
Elton kicks and whips Ford to a corner, then UPPERCUTS! Elton whips the other way, UPPERCUTS again, and then does it again! Elton adds to the hattrick with a lift, Ford says a quick prayer before the SUPLEX! Ford flounders, gets to his feet, but Elton dodges to springboard and FLYING UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! Ford stays in this, but Elton stays on him. SmackDown returns to single picture and fans rally for Pretty Deadly as Elton gives Ford a back suplex. Ford lands out, waistlocks, but Elton switches and shoves Ford. Ford CLOBBERS Elton in return! Ford is also dazed but he covers, ONE!
Kit reaches out, Elton and Ford both crawl, hot tags to Kit and Dawkins! The fans fire up as Dawkins wrenches Kit, underhooks and SILENCER! Dawkins Electric Chair Lifts Kit, Ford climbs, but Kit slips free! Kit shoves Dawkins into Ford! Ford falls to the floor, but Dawkins ENZIGIRIS Kit! Elton tags in, and Kit LARIATS Dawkins! Pretty Deadly combine for DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Dawkins survives and the Profits are a bit unsure of what to do next. Dawkins crawls to a corner, Elton runs up, but Dawkins dodges! Elton hits buckles and Dawkins TOSSES Kit, then Dawkins hits a SKY HIGH on Elton!
Dawkins hurries to tag Ford and Ford climbs up! But Kit pushes Elton out of the way! Kit takes FROM THE HEAVESN, and Elton ghost pins Ford! TWO!! Ford escapes, and he ROCKS Elton! Elton UPPERCUTS Ford! Dawkins sneaks a tag, Ford SUPERKICKS! POUNCE SAIDO COMBO!! Cover, KIT BREAKS IT! The fans fire up while all four men are down! The teams go to opposite ends, then they all stand up in the corners. They all roar, all run in, and Kit SPEARS Ford while Elton FLYING UPPERCUTS Dawkins!! London is thunderous, and Kit hurries to tag in! Pretty Deadly gets Dawkins up, for SPILT MILK!! Cover, FORD BREAKS IT!
The fans are shocked, as is Elton, but Ford saves this for his team! “This is Awesome!” as Ford runs up and Elton TOSSES him out! Now DRY MARTI- NO! Dawkins doesn’t accept the second serving, and he DUMPS Kit out! Kit skins the cat while Dawkins DECKS Elton! Dawkins catches Kit to an Electric Chair! Ford rises, DOOMSDAY BLOCKBUSTER!! Cover, Profits win!
Winners: The Street Profits, by pinfall (still WWE Tag Team Champions)
Pretty Deadly put up a heroic fight, but the hometown heroes could not capture the gold. Dawkins & Ford hold onto the gold, will this be the strongest the Profits have ever been?
Kayden & Katana talk with Zelina Vega.
Carter & Chance know La Muneca got screwed over by The Green Administration. Chelsea thinks she’s untouchable, but someone’s gonna stop them eventually. Well, speaking of, Alba Fyre leads the way in as she & Piper Niven “scope the perimeter.” There’s one small threat. They frisk the “miniscule” threat, but nothing they haven’t dealt with before. Chelsea struts in and says, “The Eagle has landed~!” Zelina says she is so glad the “Bootleg Men in Black” have crashed the party. Now, yeah, they all know she’s small. But clearly this small “threat” is a big threat to Chelsea’s title reign. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have taken all three of them to beat her.
KC Squared agree with that. How about tonight, we see what happens when the odds are even? Chelsea says that’s fine, because Agents P & A are ready. The Secret Her-vice has been given their next mission, but will they be able to crash the party? Or will the party crash them?
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice!
SmackDown returns and The Green Administration makes their entrance. The teams sort out, Alba starts against Katana, and the two tie up. Alba KNEES low, CLUBS Katana down, then fireman’s carries. Katana fights free, tags Kayden, and they KICK, double whip, and then trip Alba up for the basement DROPKICK! Katana adds a slingshot SENTON, Kayden covers, TWO! Kayden tags Katana, they double whip Alba to a corner, then Kayden runs in. Alba DUMPS Kayden out, ROCKS Katana, and she tags Piper! Katana arm-drags Alba out, then goes out to run up. Kayden gives her a boost, Katana CROSSBODIES Alba down!
The fans fire up, but Piper goes up and out?! CANNONBALL and down goes KC Squared! Piper salutes Chelsea and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Kayden rallies on Alba while the fans rally up. Kayden fires up, runs in and whips, but Alba reverses. Kayden wheelbarrows, victory rolls, then SUPERKICKS! Kayden fires up again but the fans are torn. Kayden runs in at Alba to BOOT WASH her against the ropes! Chelsea protests, Kayden kicks at her, then Kayden springboards for a LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Alba survives, Kayden whips, but Alba KICKS back! Tag to Piper, but Kayden jackknife bridges Alba! The ref explains bout the tag, Piper runs up, but Kayden moves! The SENTON hits Alba! Piper panics, Kayden tags Katana!
Katana goes up onto Kayden’s shoulders, VICTORY ROLL LAUNCHER, but Piper catches Katana! Katana fires hands, BOOTS, and then hurries to go up again. Kayden ROCKS Piper, and fireman’s carries?! SAMOAN DROP! Kayden then gives Katana the boost, for the KEG STAND SPLASH!! Cover, ALBA BREAKS IT! Kayden runs up on Alba to BOOT her out! Katana gives Kayden the boost now, SUPER CROSSBODY onto Alba! Kayden hurries to tag back in, and she brings Piper up. Piper swings, Kayden dodges and SUPERKICKS! Katana goes up, Piper staggers over that way, but Chelsea distracts the ref!
The fans are torn as Alba grabs Katana. Katana kicks Alba down, chases Chelsea off, but Piper sends Kayden into her! Piper scoops to PIPER DRIVER!! Cover, Secret Her-vice wins!
Winner: The Secret Her-vice, by pinfall
The Women’s US Champion helps her team, and now they all mug Kayden & Katana! But here comes Zelina! Vega runs down the ramp, CLOBBERS Alba, and then she gets in the ring! Zelina tilt-o-whirl DDTS Piper! And she KNEES Alba off the apron! But Chelsea CLOBBERS Zelina! Chelsea fires up, the UK is oddly with her, and she chicken wings Zeina. But Zelina fights free to fire forearms and body shots! And a BACK ELBOW! Zelina reels Chelsea in, CODE- SUPERKICK from Alba! SENTON from Piper! The Green Administration is just too much for Zelina to fight against alone! But can she, Kayden & Katana find a way to turn things around?
WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman!
Did the Mega Star just get this title back from Shinsuke Nakamura? YEAH! Did he help the Monster of All Monsters fight off Solo Sikoa’s rouge bloodline? YEAH! And now, does he have to defend this title against the monster he just helped? YEAH!! But will Knight still reign this close to WrestleMania? Or will Braun #GetTheseHands back on a championship?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and it’s time for Knight’s biggest challenge, YEAH!
The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two circle. The two tie up, and Braun SHOVES Knight away. Knight comes back, Braun SHOVES him down again! Knight gets up, gets around, and he headlocks. Braun powers up to back suplex, but Knight lands out! Knight tries but Braun’s too big to suplex! Braun ELBOWS Knight, storms up on him, but Knight fires haymakers! Knight whips, Braun reverses, but Knight KICKS back! Knight runs, but Braun HIP TOSSES! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this, but Braun brings him up. Braun puts Knight in a corner, CHOPS, then runs, for a SPLASH! Knight sputters along ropes, Braun keeps moving, but Knight DUMPS him out!
The fans fire up as Knight then WRECKS Braun with a dropkick! Knight keeps moving, and he WRECKS Braun again! The fans fire up with Knight, but then Braun BOOTS Knight down! The fans are torn but Braun stands tall as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Braun puts Knight back in the ring. The fans cheer as Knight KICKS Braun! Knight tries again, but Braun’s still too big to back suplex! Braun CLUBS Knight, then runs in at the corner. Knight BOOTS Braun, goes up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Knight and Braun rise back up, and Knight dodges a shot to JAB! Then he dodges to JAB! JAB! JAB! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” But Braun KNEES low! Braun scoops, Knight slips free, and Knight RAMS Braun into buckles! Then the BACK SUPLEX! The fans fire up and Knight rises again! Knight spells it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO!
Braun has plenty left in the tank but the fans rally for Knight. Knight stands Braun up to kick low, but Braun THROWS Knight away! Knight rises, and Braun LARIATS Knight up and out! The fans fire up as Braun rips the shirt! Braun gets on the track, and he runs in, STROWMAN EXPRESS MEETS JACOB FATU!! The Samoan Werewolf strikes Braun down!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by disqualification; LA Knight retains the title
The fans boo as Jacob now goes after Knight! He just ruined what was becoming a great match, but Jacob fires HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT on Braun! SAMOAN DROP onto the desk!! The desk doesn’t budge, but Braun might’ve been broken in half! The UK fires up for Fatu as he puts Braun in the ring! Jacob fires more HEADBUTTS, then HEADBUTTS away on Braun in the corner! The fans sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE, FATU~, FATU~!” Jacob runs corner to corner, but Knight kicks him first! Knight fires haymakers, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Jacob denies the BFT to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! And then HIP ATTACK for Braun anyway!
Jacob keeps going, HIP ATTACK for Braun again! Jacob throws off his jacket, glares at Braun, and he runs in for a third HIP ATTACK! Braun flounders into the drop zone, so Jacob goes up, up, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Direct hit on Braun, but the fans want that “ONE MORE TIME!” Jacob obliges, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! The Samoan Werewolf just tore up #OneBigSOB and LA Knight, will there be no stopping him from taking the United States Championship?
Backstage interview with Jimmy Uso.
Jackie Redmond is with #BigJim, and she says that while she knew WWE was going global this month, she did not know they’d get the slap heard ’round the world! Jimmy says he’d do it again, and he’ll slap Gunther as many times as he needs! Jimmy knows Jey is up in his own head, doubt is creeping on him. But just because Jey’s 0-3 against Gunther doesn’t mean Gunther’s unbeatable! The Ring General CAN be got! Jimmy’s going to Raw this Monday, he will bust Gunther’s ass, Jey will go to Mania and bust Gunther’s ass to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. And then they leave Las Vegas just like this: YEET!
Jimmy heads out, but then The Miz & Carmelo Hayes walk by. Miz is mocking Jimmy’s words, and he asks excuse me. Miz says it’s just funny that suddenly, Jimmy is a tough guy, even though for most of his career, he’s been “The Other Uso.” Doesn’t Jimmy get it? Jimmy and Jey are career sidekicks while Gunther is a main character. Gunther is the lead, neither Jimmy nor Jey can beat him. And here’s another thing: The Usos are just blips on the trailer that was Roman Reigns’ Bloodline. Melo says Jimmy & Jey are stuck outside the club, they can’t even get in.
Miz says as a former WWE Champion, a former WrestleMania main eventer, Jimmy will never know what it is to carry this industry. And after this year’s WrestleMania, neither will Jey. Oh, and by the way, if Jimmy ever slapped Miz like that, Jimmy would still be on the ground. Jimmy feints the slap and Miz freaks out. Jimmy says it may be him and Gunther on Monday, but he’ll holler at Aldis real quick so it can be Jimmy VS Miz here tonight. Yeah, YEET! Jimmy heads out, Melo says he thought Miz was gonna do something about the slap. Will Miz have to do something about running his mouth before he gets his teeth kicked in?
Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga find Jacob Fatu backstage.
Solo asks Jacob what the Hell he was doing out there. Jacob goes out there alone without saying a thing to them? Jacob says he ain’t gotta say nothing to nobody! Matter fact, didn’t Solo not tap in with him last week? Tama says, “But Jacob,” only for Jacob to say, “But nothing, Tama!” Solo wants Jacob to lower his tone, but Jacob says okay. Let him be very clear with them. When it comes to Braun Strowman, Jacob WILL be the last man standing. Y’all better get in where you fit in, cuz that US title? Oh, Jacob’s bringing it home to the family. And he will do it with them, or without them! Yadada mean? Fatu heads out, is the Samoan Werewolf no longer following Solo?
Naomi speaks.
“I mean… How did we even get here? I don’t know. One thing that I do know is that I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. So Bianca, what makes you think that my attack on Jade was anything different from me doing the right thing? When I sit here and I think about all that I’ve sacrificed, all that I’ve given, and that’s what really breaks my heart. Because through all of that, I’m made to be the bad one in this situation. I just don’t understand, how does Jade come in outta nowhere and take my place with you? I want you to ask yourself this, Bianca. Who inspired you? Hmm?
“Who’s inspired women over the last decade? Who’s always had your back from day one of you being here? Me. Not Jade. Hmm. But you know what? What I’ve learned through all of this: You teach people how to treat you. And I’m done with being treated as a third wheel. I’m done being pushed to the side, I’m done with being too nice, I’m done with being undervalued, underutilized, underappreciated! So moving forward, hmm… Moving forward, here’s my message to you, Jade. If you continue to be in my way, I strongly advise you to proceed with caution.” The Glow shows her dark side, but will the storm be moved?
Nick Aldis meets with Jade Cargill.
Speaking of, the SmackDown General Manager understands things have been rather difficult for her as of late. Jade says she’s been trying to get her hands on Naomi for the past few weeks, now where is she? No one has seen her all day, so as far as anyone knows, Naomi’s not here. Well, when Jade catches Naomi, it’s on sight. Jade leaves, B-Fab & Michin are there. They let her know that what Naomi did to her was straight trash, totally uncalled for behavior. And after Jade gets her hands on Naomi, she’ll handle that business. Jade agrees. Mia says they’ve all got business to handle. Jade’s got Naomi, and Mia’s gonna get Charlotte for messing with her girl, B.
B-Fab says Naomi’s got what’s coming to her: no sympathy, no regrets. Jade, just do what you gotta do. Oh, she will. Jade also wishes Mia luck tonight. Mia & B-Fab head out, will the Head Baddie in Charge make the Queen bow down in London?
The darkness approaches.
“You are as I was. As I am, you will be.” The shadows are starting to take shape, but is SmackDown about to fade to black?
Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab!
The Queen looks down on everyone, so it’s no surprise that everyone else wants to take her down. Charlotte may have checked off B-Fab, but will the HBIC be a much different story? Or will Charlotte only sharpen her edge before facing Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania?
WAIT! NAOMI ATTACKS B-FAB & MICHIN! Naomi drags Mia up for a FACEBUSTER! Naomi rains down fists, the ref reprimands and the fans boo, but Naomi tells the ref to back off. Naomi then BOOTS B-Fab off the apron! Naomi goes out after B-Fab to THRWO her into barriers! Naomi SLAPS B-Fab, tells her to stay down, but B-Fab gets up. Naomi fires hands, then she SMACKS B-Fab off the desk! Naomi rains down fists, but here comes Jade! Jade hurries down the ramp, she runs around the way, but Naomi runs away! Jade makes sure B-Fab is okay, but refs have to help her to the back. And what of Mia? Will she even be able to compete?
Charlotte makes her entrance, not really caring about what Naomi just did to Mia. But that means she also crosses paths with Jade. The fans like the look of this stare down, but Jade and Charlotte both let the other slide. Charlotte gets her pyro, and it seems she’ll still get her match. Will Mia be little more than an appetizer now?
The bell rings, and Charlotte BOOTS Mia down! Cover, TWO! Mia stays in this and the fans rally up. Charlotte just struts around while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Charlotte has Mia down with a chinlock, but the fans rally up. Mia fights up, fires body shots, and she then blocks a shot to ROCK Charlotte! Mia ROCKS Charlotte again and again, then reels her in for a TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Mia hurries to cover, TWO! Mia drags Charlotte up, wrenches, but Charlotte says no to Da Feet! BIG back suplex! Mia stagger sup, Charlotte whips her, but Mia reverses! Charlotte goes up and out, BOOTS her away, then slingshots in and rolls Mia! Mia rolls through and BUZZSAWS! Mia runs corner to corner, but Charlotte avoids the cannonball!
Charlotte YAKUZA KICKS Mia down, then fires herself up! The fans “WOO~!” as Charlotte has Mia in the drop zone,. Charlotte steps on her, goes up the corner, but Mia gets underneath her! SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO! Charlotte survives and Mia is shocked! Mia nods as the fans rally back up, and she brings Charlotte up. But Charlotte ROCKS Mia! Mia SOBATS, PELES, and then runs to PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! Charlotte stays in this, Mia grows frustrated, but the fans continue to rally. Mia uses that energy to stay focused, and she stalks Charlotte to waistlock. But Charlotte ELBOWS her away!
Charlotte CHOPS, and CHOPS, and CHOSP! Charlotte winds up, and she CHOPS again! Mia sputters, but then she dodges the boot! Charlotte is caught, and Mia hits a SAIDO! Charlotte flounders to a corner, the fans rally behind Mia, and Mia runs up, CANNONBALL! Mia hurries to wrench and EAT- NO, Charlotte shoves Mia away! Charlotte gets under, back suplexes, but Mia lands out! EAT DA FEET!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Charlotte’s long legs help her survive by a literal foot! Mia is beside herself while Charlotte bails out. Mia storms after Charlotte, runs up, but Charlotte dodges! Mia’s kick hits steel steps!
Mia hobbles away, goes to the apron, but Charlotte CHOP BLOCKS the bad leg out! Charlotte grabs Mia’s leg, drops a KNEE on the knee, but fans chant, “We Want Tiffy!” Charlotte just steps through, FIGURE FOUR, into FIGURE EIGHT!! Mia taps, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
Charlotte got more of a fight out of Mia than expected, but she still won. Will The Queen be more than ready to reign again after WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.
Jackie Redmond is with the WWE Women’s Champion and says Charlotte certainly looks confident. Let’s be real, Charlotte came at Tiff pretty hard. It got a lot of people talking. Tiff says yes, people talk. And Charlotte sure loves to hear herself talk. Ten years into the business and Charlotte is still so insecure that she can’t let a “rookie” get a word out. But last week, Tiff did learn something: She learned that walking into WrestleMania, she isn’t the one with something to lose. Truth is, if Tiff loses, then she lost to the great Charlotte Flair, as just a 25-year-old rookie with one year into SmackDown.
But if Charlotte loses… Well, then she lost to an “undeserving, delusional, unoriginal, backflip doing, blonde-hair-having, little girl.” Did she get it all? And Tiff can’t wait to hear the look on Charlotte’s face when they hear the words, “And STILL!” Then maybe Charlotte will finally shut up for the sake of literally everyone! They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and Tiff will make damn sure what stays is Charlotte’s massive ego. Tiff is walking into and out of Mania as the WWE Women’s Champion. Tootles! Tiff heads out, will it still be #TiffyTime after WrestleMania?
Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre!
The Viper told Cody how proud he was, but also how he wants the next shot after John Cena. The Scottish Terminator took offense to that, and basically said he is taking that shot instead. Will this match be an unofficial #1 contender’s match between these two former world champions?
SmackDown returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans sing, “OH~, Drew McIntyre~!” and chant “R K O! R K O!” Drew and Orton circle, tie up, and they go around in a deadlock. Drew powers Orton to a corner, but Orton headlocks back. Drew powers up and out, then he runs Orton over! Orton hurries to ropes and Drew mockingly asks, “How’s the back feel, Randy?” Orton stands, he and Drew reset, and the fans duel some more. Drew calls for a knuckle lock, Orton accepts, but then Drew kicks low! Drew bumps Orton off buckles, then climbs up, but he panders for too long and Orton YANKS him down!
The fans fire up as Orton climbs now! Orton rains down fists, and the fans count to nine. Orton hops down, brings Drew around, and POSTS him for ten! Drew tumbles out of the ring, Orton goes out after him, and they’re by the desk! But Drew kicks Orton first and SMACKS him off the desk! Drew clears the desk, and he brings Orton up for the DESK- NO, Orton fights free! Orton turns things around, DESK BACK SUPLEX for Drew! The fans fire up while Orton leaves Drew behind, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew writhes on the floor, but Orton goes out to fetch him! Orton brings Drew around, UPPERCUTS him, then says one more time! DESK BACK SUPLEX! Drew writhes as that desk stays standing! Orton grins, refreshes the ring count, and then he storms up on Drew. Drew pokes Orton in the eye! Drew POSTS Orton now, then brings him around to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP into barriers! Orton slumps down, and Drew also grits his teeth from that double-edged attack, but Drew fires up as he stands tall. Drew drags Orton up, puts him in the ring, then stalks Orton. Drew looms over Orton, and HIP DROPS him!
Orton sputters, Drew says one more time, and he winds up for the HIP DROP! Drew paces around Orton, says maybe one more time, and he pretends he can’t hear the fans. Drew winds up again, but Orton flips over! Hip drop meets kneecaps! And then Orton pokes Drew in the eyes! The ref reprimands but Orton rises up. Drew sputters and flounders, Orton ROCKS him with a right! Drew ROCKS Orton back! Drew storms up, Orton kicks low, but Drew fires another haymaker! The haymakers go back and forth, Orton gets the edge, but Drew GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTTS! Cover, TWO! Drew clamps onto Orton with an armlock!
SmackDown returns to single picture and the fans rally up. Orton fights up, pries at the chinbar, and then throws right hands! Drew CHOPS Orton in return! The fans “WOO~” and Drew winds up. Drew ROCKS Orton again, eggs him on, then CHOPS again! Drew shoves Orton to a corner, CHOPS again, then dares Orton to fight! Drew whips corner to corner, but Orton comes back to LARIAT! And LARIAT! Drew swings, Orton dodges, SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up as Orton stalks Drew to the apron. Drew HOTSHOTS Orton first! Drew then runs in, but Orton puts him through the ropes!
The fans fire up as Orton has Drew for the DRAPING DDT! The fans fire up for Orton, and Orton hears those voices! Drew rises, but then Orton spots KEVIN OWENS! The Prizefighter is on the ramp, Orton glares at him, but then he turns around into a CLAYMORE!! Cover, DREW WINS!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
Kevin’s mere presence costs Orton, and now Drew has a huge win propelling him down the Road to WrestleMania! As for Orton, Kevin drags him out of the ring, SMACKS him off the desk, and then climbs up to join him! The fans boo but Kevin and his hot pink sneakers have Orton in position, but Orton slips free and TRIPS Kevin up! Kevin hits the desk then the floor! Orton staggers around, the fans rally behind him, and Orton stalks Kevin to the corner of the barriers. Orton lines up the shot! Orton runs in, but Kevin jumps over barriers! Security is there to stop Orton from pursuing, so Kevin runs away into the night!
The fans boo, but The Viper was that close! Will Orton be able to strike Kevin down and completely take him out?
Fire, thunder, smoke…
The force of nature is drawing ever closer. And he’s ready to fly! REY FENIX arrives next Friday Night SmackDown!
Jimmy Uso VS The Miz!
#BigJim gave Gunther a piece of his mind and a mark on his cheek, but it seems not everyone got the message. Will the Hollywood A-lister soon star in the Uso Penitentiary? Or will he prove Jimmy is NOT ready for a world champion level opponent?
The bell rings and the two tie up. Jimmy powers Miz to a corner, Miz turns things around, and the ref counts. Miz takes a swing, Jimmy ducks it to CHOP! And CHOP! Miz shoves Jimmy back, then runs up, but Jimmy TACKLES Miz! Jimmy rains down fists, Miz shoves him away to go to ropes, but Jimmy storms back up. Miz ELBOWS Jimmy away, then runs back up, only for Jimmy to LARIAT him down! The fans fire up while Jimmy storms up on Miz. Jimmy CHOPS Miz, has him in a corner, then whips corner to corner. Miz reverses, Jimmy goes up and over, then UPPERCUTS! Miz staggers back to ropes, but Jimmy is right on him.
Jimmy whips, Miz reverses and kitchen sink knees! Then basement BOOTS! The fans fire up, Miz scowls, and Miz KNEES Jimmy in the back again and again. Miz stalks Jimmy to the ropes now, and he CHOKES Jimmy! The ref counts, Miz runs, and Miz STRADDLE ATTACKS! The fans boo, but Miz runs again. Jimmy ducks the boot, then dodges a lariat! Jimmy runs up to LARIAT Miz up and out! The fans fire up and Jimmy builds speed, but Miz runs away! Jimmy smirks as he goes out the side, and UPPERCUTS Miz over the barriers! Jimmy makes sure Gunther knows he’s coming to get him, but SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and both men are down. Miz and Jimmy crawl, and Jimmy pounds the mat. The fans rally, Jimmy rises and runs up to LARIAT! And LARIAT! And mule kick! Jimmy then UPPERCUTS Miz, dodges a lariat, then SAMOAN DROPS! The fans fire up, Jimmy goes to the corner, “UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs in, but Miz puts him on the apron! Jimmy UPPERCUTS again! Jimmy climbs, leaps, but Miz gets under! Miz then waistlocks, ripcords, and MOVIE MAKER! Fans boo that blatant parody, but Miz full nelsons! Jimmy drops, victory rolls, TWO! Miz has the cover, TWO! Miz hurries to BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally up as Jimmy survives! Miz stalks Jimmy, the fans rally up more, and Miz fires a KICK! And then another KICK! The fans say “YES! YES! YES!” to the It Kicks, but then Miz winds up. Jimmy ducks the buzzsaw, Miz blocks the superkick, but the DRAGON WHIP connects! Miz rebounds to B-MOVIE KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! The parodies don’t get it done, but Miz still has his original work to fall back on. The fans rally for “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz shoves Jimmy down, then springboards, but into a SUPERKICK! Jimmy hurries up top, for the USO SPLASH!! Cover, Jimmy wins!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Miz may be a movie star, but Big Jim’s the one winning this main event! Jimmy then borrows Joe Tessitore’s headset to call out Gunther! He’s coming after dat ass on Monday! Gunther won’t be the ring general, he will be “Private Gunther,” and he will salute Big Jim! Uh, uh, YEET! Will Jimmy be the one making examples out of the World Heavyweight Champion? Or will everything come crashing down when Gunther gets his turn?
Drew McIntyre returns backstage.
And he says hey to Lewis Capaldi, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, and also a big fan of Drew’s. They’re ready to have a good night in the pub, but Jackie Redmond walks over to congratulate him on the win tonight. She was hoping to get some thoughts on that victory and what happened with Orton and Kevin. Drew says it’s alright, this is what happens. He doesn’t care about anybody else’s business, but no one gets away with screwing him over. And when no one meddles in his business, he wins! Drew called out Priest, where is he? Priest doesn’t have the balls! So time to get mad in the pubs, everyone’s invited!
Drew turns the corner, but PRIEST IS THERE! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the door, then throws him into road cases! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the trunk of a car, and then again! Or since it’s London, “the boot.” The driver complains, but Priest BODY SLAMS that guy through a table! Drew comes back to KNEE Priest low, SMACK him off the trunk, and then off the side! They go to the hood, or bonnet for UK. Drew drags Priest up, but Priest CLAWS Drew’s eyes! Priest then sends Drew SOUTH OF HEAVEN through the windshield! Priest tells security that he’s done for now. Any more jokes, Drew? Didn’t think so! RIP, jackass!
Priest leaves, the producers hurry to help Drew, and Drew’s got glass in his eye! Will that glass help Drew see why he shouldn’t piss off the Punisher?
CM Punk heads to gorilla.
He has a security detail with him, and he passes by Drew writhing in pain. Punk chuckles, then continues on. Will his contract signing with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins be just as brutal? We find out, after the break.
Nick Aldis is in the ring.
The SmackDown General Manager welcomes us back, and says it is his honor and privilege to be here in the O2 in London. Now, we all know why he and this table is here, and why additional security is here tonight. Tonight, we are here to sign a contract for a Triple Threat. Perhaps the biggest Triple Threat in the history of WrestleMania: Seth Rollins VS CM Punk VS Roman Reigns! The fans cheer all those names, and here comes the OTC! London puts the ones up, and Paul Heyman accompanies THE Tribal Chief out on stage. Roman raises his finger to the sky for the pyro, then security follows him to the ring.
SmackDown goes picture in picture as Roman’s entrance continues, and he raises his finger to the sky for the second round of pyro. Roman steps into the ring, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Heyman hands him a mic. The fans sing, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!” Roman nods, the fans cheer, and now they chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman tells London, “ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer again, and again chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman smiles, but he sees the chairs are not to his liking. Heyman makes sure to put one at the head of the table. Heyman also dusts the chair off while Roman enjoys the singing of, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!”
Roman takes a seat and says that was beautiful. The way they sing to their Tribal Chief, it’s just beautiful. The singing continues, and Heyman even joins in! Roman smiles, and he says that is what he’s talking about. That’s the OTC for you, baby! The biggest star on the planet! The OTC came here for two reasons. One: to be acknowledged; check! And two: to sign this contract. Roman does just that, and he says he’s checked both boxes. That means- “BURN IT DOWN!” Seth Rollins interrupts! The fans now sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Rollins struts out in his red wine paisley suit and conducts the O2 Choir all the way into the ring.
The fans cheer while Roman frowns, but Rollins takes the seat to Roman’s left. Rollins offers Heyman a chance to sing to this song, but Heyman frowns. Rollins chuckles, and he says the fans do have beautiful singing voices. He doesn’t know why Roman is in such a hurry to leave, though! This is their building! There’s a lot of history here! 12 years ago, they landed on the roof of this place in a helicopter! They came down those stairs over there, “ready to burn down the old guard!” They put the Undertaker down through the desk, and they were going to remake this company in their image!
Now don’t get him wrong, Rollins knows a lot has happened since then. They fought against each other, with each other, a little bit of love and a whole lot of hate. But Rollins dare says, as the fans continue to sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~,” that Rollins and Roman accomplished their mission. The fans start to chant for CM Punk, but Rollins tunes them out. Roman says, “We? We? You keep saying we. Our mission? We died a long time ago. It’s only been ME. You been here, but I done all the work! I’ve made this place what it is today! I took us to the level that we are here today! I made this place better than we found it!
“I’m the one that made us desirable to Netflix! I’m the one that took us into billion-dollar deals! Tell me, what have you done?” Rollins shouts, “I’ll tell you what I’ve done! YOU, YOU, YOU, it’s that mindset that keeps me having to screw you! You understand that? And your biggest mistake is not understanding the danger that’s right in front of us! The danger that’s right in front of you! You let the biggest snake in the world, CM Punk, into the garden! And you could’ve cut his head off at WarGames! But instead, you shook his hand. You could’ve let me finish him inside the cage at The Garden, but you didn’t. And now, I am left to do what I always do: Clean up your mess, again.”
Rollins drops his mic, picks up the pen, and signs his part. And now, here comes CM PUNK! The fans fire up and sing along with Cult of Personality, then join in on saying, “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME~!” Punk goes to the ring, but as he grabs a mic, he goes up a corner, just like he did last Friday. “I have come here to chew bubblegum and sign a contract. And I’m all outta bubblegum.” The fans cheer the Rowdy Roddy Piper reference, and Punk hops down to take his seat on Roman’s right. Punk looks over said contract, but Roman asks if Punk needs a highlighter or something. What’s he doing? Just go to page four, clause five.
Punk does as Roman says, but Roman says Punk needs to hurry, this is precious TV time. Punk reads the segment, Roman tells Heyman to just smarten Punk up. Heyman tells Punk he knows what Punk is looking for. It is in there. They’re closing the show at WrestleMania. The fans go wild hearing that! Heyman tells Punk that he gets to live his dream of dreams. CM Punk will be a WrestleMania main eventer! The fans cheer and while Roman smiles, Rollins is furious. Roman says, “One man’s dream is another man’s favor! CHECK!” Wait, this was the favor? Rollins says no! This is not something to laugh at, and Punk does not get to tear up!
Punk is NOT deserving! He does NOT deserve this! The fans boo but Rollins continues to throw a fit! Main eventing WrestleMania is SACRED, the most important thing in the world to Rollins! More than anything! Except the fact that Punk NEVER gets to main event! This is all Roman’s fault! This is all Heyman’s fault! Rollins THROWS his mic down, paces angrily, but Punk picks up the mic. The fans cheer Punk on again, and Punk stands to thank London, to thank Chicago, to thank Louisville, Kentucky, and to thank ALL the fans. As corny as it sounds, he thanks the WWE Universe who stood by him and chanted his name for TEN LONG YEARS!
Roman says hold on, hold on. Punk shouldn’t be thanking the fans! He should be thanking the Tribal Chief! It is because of Roman that Punk gets this honor! So please, take this moment, close the show with that acknowledgement! Do this the right way. The credits are already rolling as Punk kneels before Roman!? Punk smiles, and he thanks “My Tribal Chief, the holder of the ula fala, the Head of the Table, the… Big Dog? Thank you for allowing a kid from Chicago to be graced by your presence. Thank you, My Tribal Chief, for allowing me to stand in your ring. And thank you so much. Thank you, Roman Reigns, so very much.
“But because of you, I will see you in the main event of WrestleMania.” And again, Rollins is agonizing over this. Punk finishes putting his signature on the contract, and London tells him, “You Deserve It!” Punk thanks Roman again, and then says, “But that’s not the favor that I’m owed.” WHAT?! Roman looks at Heyman and Heyman can’t look him in the eye! If getting this Triple Threat made into the main event isn’t the gift of the Wise Man, then what is?!
My Thoughts:
A good SmackDown, but they pulled off quite the paradox. They made it feel like they were struggling to fill three hours, yet they also filled the show to the point where that contract signing segment was almost bleeding over the three hour mark. Ironically, part of the problem was just how excited the London crowd was for this. The superstars still wanted to enjoy the chants and songs, but that’s time SmackDown doesn’t have to spare. It made the opening promo from Cody, Orton and Drew take longer, and it kinda did the same to the contract signing at the end. Even so, we still got a very good promo, and good stuff to set up Orton VS McIntyre.
Orton VS McIntyre was a great match, but of course Kevin costs Orton. McIntyre gets his win, Kevin and Orton have a bit of a brawl, but of course Kevin ends up on the losing end and runs off. McIntyre’s trash talk also comes back to bite him as Priest gets the better of him in their brawl. Here’s hoping Drew didn’t actually get glass in his eye, but that being the thing in kayfabe can be some good stuff. I can imagine McIntyre with an eyepatch, and he takes it off at the opportune time to get the better of Priest in their match. Also what a fitting choice for Punk to be passing by Drew suffering because of real glass.
Very good title matches tonight, but of course the status quo was kept. Pretty Deadly gets to look great here in London, but the Profits only just got the belts, they’re not going to be transitional champions like that. And Knight VS Braun was really good stuff, but honestly, Jacob Fatu going after them both should’ve been a given. Jacob also had a great promo with Solo & Tama to start adding to that divide between Jacob and Solo. I would hope Solo doesn’t screw Jacob out of the US Championship, but it feels like he will as Solo won’t stand for Jacob defying his authority, even though Solo’s been trying to make Jacob the champion all along.
Very good stuff from Jimmy Uso tonight, from his promo with #MeloDon’tMiz and then a great match with Miz. Their match ended up the de facto main event match, so that’s also great for both guys. Great win for Jimmy, but that’s likely because Jimmy is losing big time to Gunther on Monday. And it might just be me, but it feels like only now is the Jey VS Gunther build really moving, largely in part because Jimmy got involved. Jimmy’s promo after his match is something along the lines of what Jey should be saying. But I suppose as brothers, Jimmy is the one who knows Jey best and knows what Jey needs to be motivated again. And seeing Jimmy get beat up by Gunther will definitely motivate Jey…
Good final vignettes for Rey Fenix and Aleister Black. I’m a little surprised they confirmed Rey Fenix is showing up next week, and that they confirmed who Rey Fenix even is. I believe commentary confirmed Rey Fenix is Penta’s real brother, even namedropped “Lucha Brothers,” but all that is still surprising considering Fenix is going to start on SmackDown. Aleister’s vignette (at least I am fairly confident it’s his) was giving us glimpses of his silhouette, but I think there was usage of AI in the snake imagery. It was fine they did it for El Grande Americano because that is all trolling, but they really should try and do things the old fashioned way of photoshop and stock imagery.
Very good stuff in the Women’s Division tonight, though the WWE Women’s Championship portion was the weaker. Naomi’s got a great Heel persona going, her promo was great, and her going after B-Fab & Michin over them supporting Jade was a great detail. Jade runs Naomi off, helps B-Fab, but there was no helping Michin in being fed to Charlotte. Tiffany had a decent promo, and it does fit how Charlotte kept her from speaking so she finally gets things out here. It didn’t really add that much, though, but they already gave us a great brawl so not sure what more they can give.
KC Squared VS The Secret Her-vice was a very good match, but of course Chelsea made sure her team won. A Six Woman Tag of Zelina & KC Squared VS The Green Administration is certainly coming, to help give us Zelina VS Chelsea for the Women’s US Championship.
My Score: 8.7/10
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 3.27.2025
Bad news out of the TNA management side, but this is a taped episode from El Paso! So we won’t see any of the fallout just yet!
Now we all heard the news about the TNA change in hierarchy, and I…have no positive outlook on that. Delirious sucked at booking and creative in the dying days of ROH before it got bought as a B show. Dreamer having even more control is concerning because his ideas the last two years haven’t been much better.
Gail leaving makes more sense to me. Be it firing or a “you can’t quit, you’re fired” kind of situation, the Knockouts division is the worst it’s been in a long time and Gail was close with Scott D’Amore. So I don’t think Gail parting ways is as big of a problem since TNA has slowly been bleeding out with the Scott faithful.
Granted, I think the next few shows were already taped before the firing so things shouldn’t be completely unwatchable for at least a week or two. So let’s see where we’re going.
.@WeAreRosemary sends @XiaBrookside a CHILLING message!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/srciTTbel0
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Ratings:
- Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge: Ash wins via Rarefied Air – ** 1/4
- Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr: Chavo wins via Gory Bomb into Frog Splash – *** 1/4
- Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich: Masha wins via Russian Death Device – ***
- Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin: Eric wins via Piledriver – ** 1/2
- Seto & Mokuba – I mean – Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater: Nic wins via Danger Zone – *** 1/4
Results:
Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge
Ash and Gigi start off, Gigi with a little Rascalz after her first takedown. So both her and Wentz are making it obvious something’s going on between them, and I’m not mad at it. Good for my man Wentz.
Tatum and Gigi get some quick tandem offense in, Ash does manage to scurry off to a tag and Heather gets bent into a Pretzel. Some kind of Inverted Tarantula from Tatum, Gigi tags in, Bronco Buster on Heather followed by Kawada Kicks. Heather sells against the ropes, Gigi goes for a Hesitation Dropkick, but Concierge pulls her away so Gigi crashes and burns. Ref is distracted, Ash gets in some cheap shots and then the Elegant duo starts working over Gigi. A few quick tags, but once Heather comes in, Gigi fights out of the corner, gets the hot tag to Tatum. Tatum stacks up both Elegance members, Corner Stacked Crossbody, Butterfly Suplex and an Elbow Drop with some some flare. Tatum goes to the top rope, Heather pulls Gigi off the apron, Concierge shoves Tatum off the turnbuckle and Ash hits Rarefied Air for the win.
Post match the Elegance Clique wants to make their wish with the cake, they light the candles and Tatum and Gigi recover enough to do what we all expected last week, the cake in the face spot. Some…suggestive licking from both of our Hot Topic Hotties, so…no complaints here.
.@Ashamae_Sebera, @Heathereckless and @IamGeorgeIceman are having a meltdown!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/FnKwPqm2ff
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr
Chavo and Kaz start since he’s King Petty, a quick rope run turns into a Headscissor from Chavo. Kaz recovers, they lock up, Kaz hits the Knee Lift during the lock up to tag out to KC. KC pulls off some athletic dodges, gloats a bit so Chavo waits, measures and nails a gorgeous Dropkick. Laredo comes in on fire, quick high spots that send KC bouncing around like HBK against Hulk. KC powders after sells the Satellite Takedown, AJ checks on him and we go to commercial.
Back from commercial, Octagon is lighting up KC’s chest with overhand chops, he perches, Sunset Headscissor Flip from corner to corner, KC tries to Back Drop him but Octagon does a headstand, kicks KC away and lays him out with a high spot. AJ gets on the apron to stop Octagon from running the ropes, the referee has a stroke or something because he stops paying attention and AJ pulls Octagon out of the ring and chucks him. KC with the Tope con Hilo and tag (tag ropes haven’t mattered since the 80s we all know this). So AJ is getting taunted by the crowd in Spanish, but he’s manhandling Octagon since it looks like a Child fighting their parent. AJ knocks off Chavo and Laredo, Laredo pops up and tries to get involved but he’s caught on the shoulders, Octagon goes for the Crossbody but gets caught and AJ pulls off “World’s Strongest Wasteland” but Chavo breaks up the pinfall. AJ throws Octagon into the corner, Tennessee Whiskey, and tag out to KC. KC hits a few moves, but starts to lose the momentum until he connects with a Super Kick. Simultaneous rope run into the Dueling Crossbodies, so we get the timely tag outs from both sides. Kaz and Laredo come in, Laredo lands like two moves before Kaz hits a Sole Butt, Lariat and eats his lunch. KC and Kaz try to double team Laredo but he fights out and the crowd is chanting for Chavo.
Chavo tags in, and he’s rocking KC, Saito Suplex, Low Bridge to AJ, Reverse the Whip so Chavo goes to the corner and perches, KC feeds, Chavo Backflips to safety, rolls through and lays out KC. Chavo is feeling himself, 3 Amigos start on KC but only 2, Kaz comes in and Chavo switches to Kaz for the Amigos, only 2 again before AJ breaks it up. AJ goes for the disrespect, but Chavo counters and hits the 3 Amigos on the biggest Culero. Aztec Warriors dive to stop AJ and Kaz, KC tries a Dirty Victory Roll but Chavo kicks out. GORY BOMB into FROG SPLASH!
Chavo looked fantastic and he’s the one in the best shape in the ring. I wouldn’t be mad at more Chavito.
Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich
I expect very little from this match.
Collar and Elbow, gator rolling for the first 30 seconds or so, then Jacy goes to some Hair Pull takedowns and does a little taunt before Masha pops back up and hits a Lariat into a Dive. Jacy sells it like she’s really hurt, even the ref tries to hold Masha back a little before Masha gets annoyed and just grabs her, Masha throws her in, looks for a Dive and Jacy sees it and powders. Masha tries to go back to the well for the Dive again but Jacy hits the Uppercut and then an Apron Run PK to drop Masha. Forearms rain down into a Foot Choke as Jacy continues to arrogantly play to the crowd. Another Foot Choke into a Cannonball, and near fall.
Masha gets space with a Sole Butt, tries to snap off Requiem but Jacy fights off, fights through a Sunset Flip another effective PK keeps Masha on her ass. Jacy looks for a kinda half-assed Camel Clutch as Masha is fighting up, but Jacy runs her into the corner, gets distracted mouthing off to the crowd, so Masha recovers, 5 Hole Up Kick sends Jacy into the corner, Yakuza Kick into Capo Kick for two. Requiem attempt again, but Jacy pushes off, a little back and forth, Masha tries a Backslide but Jacy gets away and hits a V-Trigger but only a 2 count. Jacy looks for the Discus Punch but Masha ducks it, they strike back and forth, but some dodges from both leave the exchange more even. Jacy with the Front Kick to the face sends Masha to the outside. Jacy wants another PK, but Masha blocks, Electric Chair Apron Snake Eyes. Masha throws her in, a PK into a near all. Requiem attempt 3, and thwarted from Jacy with a Superkick into a Neckbreaker. Senton misses from Jacy, Buzzsaw Kick, into Spinning Back Kick and Russian Death Device for the win.
Better than I expected, and Tessa attacks as soon as the bell rings. Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Li make the save after Tessa grabs the belt.
Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin
Ace and Eric tie up, World of Sport start but as soon as Ace starts to get away EY punches him in the face. Eric looks at the camera and says “This is what trust looks like”, turns his back on Ace, when Ace looks to attack, the loser duo cut him off. EY takes advantage of the weird situation, but Ace with some Up and Over quick spots, into an Inside Cradle and La Magistral. EY kicks out of the quick flash attempts, but eats a Dropkick, and Ace goes all Speed Kils on him with fast strikes and then a face buster for another near fall. Strike spot very early in the match, Ace gets the best of it, goes for a Tear Drop Suplex but EY sits on it to block, Headlocks to keep him close and then a snap Lariat into beatdown bully tactics. EY takes the referee’s attention and one of the nerds punch Ace in the face.
Eric tries to lean on Ace, but Ace fires, a few strikes, Click Click Boom, the Miz Seated Lariats in the corner, Mochizuki Triangle Kick connects! Only a 2 count, but Ace seems to be in control. Ace puts EY on the ropes, a few strikes to keep him rocked, wants a Superplex, but EY blocks, bites the face and Macho Elbow gets a very close two count. EY tries the Piledriver but Ace turns it into a Jacknife Cradle,Spinning Heel Kick, calls for The Fold, but the losers hop on the apron to distract, Ace attacks them. Ace tries to time out the Triangle Kick again, but Eric dodges, throws Ace head first through the buckles. As Ace stumbles out of the corner, Piledriver, and it’s over.
Oh look it’s the “we’ll hear from Joe Hendry” segment. Again, I’ve loved this gimmick since Day 1, even didn’t hate his What Culture Pro stuff, but there is such a thing as milking a cow too much.
Elijah interrupts the whole “Who’s next” speech. When Elijah comes out he says he’s not the challenger and he believes in Joe. The crowd wants Elijah to turn on Hendry. Elijah pauses for a moment, and starts proving his friendship with stating his favorite color and a little “You Got a Friend in Me”. The crowd is into singing along and waving their cameras like Lighters to a 30 year old song. THANKFULLY Kaz breaks up the hug fest. Now he gets the “Culero” chant.
Kaz pulls out a Bass…what the hell is this Jam Session. Kaz has to warm up so he plays “La Cucaracha” on the bass. Kaz…is a national treasure. Hendry kicks Kaz out of the ring after his Heelish and playfully racially charged song choices. Kaz tries to sow dissension, but Joe and Elijah pinball Kaz between them. Kaz slips a power move and tries to shove Elijah into Joe but Elijah puts the brakes on, a small tense moment. But then Joe and Elijah play “Nah Nah Nah Nah, Hey Hey, Goodbye”…and that goes right into a commercial. Oddly…perfect.
Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater
Nic shoots the half immediately for a flash pinfall but Leon kicks out at one. Nic continues to keep things grounded with his amateur wrestling skills, and then does a little Dolph Ziggler show off. So Nic isn’t really taking this seriously, and Leon starts getting the best of things with an Arm Wringer, into drag, Shoulder Tackle and rope run as Nic tries to Leap Frog and Leon puts on the brakes and just shoves Nic on his ass. Nic gets annoyed, a few strikes, grinds his face along the ropes, but Leon keeps stringing some offense together, Back Handspring Elbow into his Corner con Hilo.
Ahh the classic formula of the commercial gives the heel the advantage, Twisting Suplex from Leon stops Nic’s offense momentum, right hand, Leon lifts Nic up for something, Nic slips it, kicks him in the gut, looks for the FameAsser, but Leon catches him into a Blue Thunder Bomb variation. Slater wants the Swanton 450, but Nic powders. Leon tries to adjust into a Dive, but Nic cuts him off, counter for counter and a FameAsser out of the counters for a two count. Nic starts the big brother tactics, bootwashes and arrogance, Slater fires, punches into a Yakuza Kick. Leon wants another Lethal Injection variant, but Nic catches him into a Rear Naked Choke. Slater tries to turn it into a pin so Nic breaks it. Leon wants a Leg Lariat but misses and gets unceremoniously dropped by Nic. Nic puts Leon up on the buckles, Superplex possibly but Slater counters, tries to collect himself for a move, but Nic falls into the ropes to crotch Leon, and finally hits the Superplex.
Twist of Slate from Leon, Swanton 450 but knees get up. Locomotion Cradles from both but they kick out, Ryan picks the ankle to trip up Leon just a touch and then Danger Zone ends the match.
Ryan starts the post match beatdown, but the Hardy’s music hits and they come down to the ring for the save. Matt challenges the Nemeths for Rebellion because they’re not medically cleared yet.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Decent story motion, no match was offensive, and there was actually some solid match action for television standards. I don’t have a ton to complain about aside from the Knockouts Division is in a weird spot, and giving Hendry a lot of just talking and hollow payoff segments feels stupid. If we need to hear from him every week, give him a talk segment like Highlight Reel or something. Yes I know First Class just got The Penthouse, but if Hendry is going to talk more than wrestle, give him a talk segment for us to sink our teeth into.
There was the announcement that Xia, Lei Ying and Masha will face Tessa, Jacy and a mystery partner. So you gotta wonder if there’s going to be another NXT mercenary, a surprise return or if it’ll just be Rosemary since she’s got her issues with Xia. Also I just realized that Unbreakable is going to be on a Thursday, seemingly after iMPACT? I’m gonna have to see how they do it, because if there’s an Impact episode and 2-3 hour PLE…I do not want to be awake until 1am. People need to work, and I will be Unwakeable if things go that long.
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
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