Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Live Results & Report! (9/11/18)

Published

6 years ago

September 11, 2018

SmackDown is packed just days from Hell in a Cell: The Bar VS Rusev Day, Jeff Hardy VS Nakamura, Charlotte Flair VS Sonya Deville, and Brie Bella VS Maryse!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Jeff Hardy VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Hardy wins, by disqualification.
Charlotte Flair VS Sonya Deville w/ Mandy Rose; Flair wins.
SmackDown Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Match: Rusev Day VS The Bar; Rusev Day wins and will face The New Day for the titles at Hell in a Cell.
Andrade “Cien” Almas w/ Zelina Vega VS R-Truth w/ Carmella; Almas wins.
Brie Bella w/ Daniel Bryan VS Maryse w/ The Miz; Bella wins, by disqualification.

PLAY BY PLAY

WWE and SmackDown toll the bell 11 times to remember the tragedy of 9/11.

Never forget.

Jeff Hardy VS Shinsuke Nakamura!

The Charismatic Enigma may have the Viper to worry about at Hell in a Cell in the Cell, but he wants to wrap things up with The King of Strong Style first. Can Hardy make the United States Champion OBSOLETE this close to Sunday? Or will Hardy get a #Knee2Face as a parting gift before Randy Orton drags Hardy to Hell?

Before the match, Hardy speaks to Lafayette, Louisiana. “Demons are all around us. Tempting us, taunting us, tearing us apart at times.” Hardy has dealt with demons and has overcome them all, standing before us a better man. Demons will always come around, but you have to face them head on. Hardy does that this Sunday against his “most venomous demon”. They will fight in the sinister paradise that is the Cell.

Hardy knows Orton wants to inflict pain and torment, but Orton doesn’t know what it’s like to fight someone who has fought back through their own personal Hell. Orton forgets that Hardy is a daredevil! Hardy is #ImmuneToFear, and has prepared for such a moment. He vows to unleash a lifetime of torment, pain and suffering upon Orton until he’s classified as OBSOLETE. But tonight, Hardy cleanses himself of another demon in Nakamura. Then Hardy will go straight to Hell one way or another! “Enjoy the show!” Nakamura makes his entrance, and we begin!

Fans rally already as Hardy circles with Nakamura. Nakamura slides out of the ring, wanting to get in some last preparations. He slowly returns, wanting Hardy to stay back. Hardy lets Nakamura enter, and they circle again. Hardy kicks low then gives Nakamura a jawbreaker! Nakamura rolls out but gets a wrecking ball dropkick, then double ax handles off the apron. Hardy whips Nakamura into barriers, then runs all the way over for a LEAPING splash! They collide with each other, and then the barrier. Both men are down while we go to break.

SmackDown returns and Nakamura has Hardy in a chinlock. Nakamura grinds Hardy to the mat but fans rally up. Nakamura shifts to a bearhug, but Hardy resists the shift to a full nelson. Hardy fights out and clubs Nakamura down. Hardy drags Nakamura up to a corner and bumps him off buckles. He throws hands then bumps Nakamura off another corner’s buckles. Then another, and then the fourth for the full set. Hardy goes around another lap, but Nakamura stops the second jawbreaker with a knee! Nakamura fires off strikes, then kicks Hardy down. Nakamura circles Hardy, then brings him up in a cravat. He twists and pulls on the neck, but Hardy fights back as fans continue to chant. Nakamura shifts to a facelock and pulls harder.

Hardy rallies the fans more, and feeds off their energy. He fights back again, but Nakamura knees low. Nakamura drives in more knees and has Hardy down. He kicks Hardy as he sits up, but Hrady catches one! Hardy kicks back and throws more hands. Hardy whips but Nakamura reverses into a knee and the spin kick! Nakamura runs in at Hardy, but gets a slingblade! Both men are down again, but Hardy drags himself away. Hardy stands and drags Nakamura back up, but Nakamura knees out of the suplex! Nakamura aims, runs, but gets a back elbow. Hardy up, Whisper in the Wind! But he can’t cover because of those ribs! Both men are down and the referee starts a 10 count. Hardy stands at 4, then climbs up top. Nakamura stops him with a kick! Then the Top Shelf Knee!

Hardy tumbles down but Nakamura blasts him off with the Dynamic Dropkick! Hardy is down and out whiel we go picture in picture. Nakamura drags Hardy back up and around to throw him into barriers! Nakamura drags Hardy back up to throw him in the ring. Hardy winces while Nakamura takes his time returning. Nakamura kicks and stomps Hardy, toying with him whiel still doing serious damage to those ribs. Cover, TWO! Nakamura keeps his cool, and sits Hardy up for a seated abdominal stretch. Hardy endures, but Nakamura throws in swift elbows! He also adds knees, then covers, TWO. Nakamuar is more annoyed than anything as he brings Hardy back up. He kicks but Hardy catches it! Haryd kicks back and goes for the Twist! Nakamura gets him down into an armbar!

Hardy clasps his hands together to avoid the hold, but Nakamura just changes that to a triangle! Hardy uses power to get Nakamura up and kick his face! Nakamura lets go, but runs into a throat chop! Cover, ONE! Hardy hurries to add on with a splash, cover, TWO! Hardy is frustrated and his ribs are in pain, only making it worse. The referee starts another 10 count but Hardy forces himself to stand. We return to single picture as Hardy hits back with haymakers. Nakamura reverses the whip but Hardy counters. Hardy hits the atomic drop, takedown and leg splitting leg drop. Dropkick added, cover, TWO! Hardy isn’t deterred, he says “DELETE! DELETE!” But he misses in the corner, only to get Nakamura’s kick and BAD Vibrations! Nakamura backs off at the count of 4, but then gives Hardy a sliding knee into the post!

The referee backs Nakamura off whiel checking on Hardy, but Nakamura just fires up. Nakamura runs, but into a school boy! ONE, but Hardy ducks all the kicks to hit the Twist of Fate!! Nakamura down, Hardy throws off the shirt and climbs up! Hardy aims, but Orton attacks!

Winner: Jeff Hardy, by disqualification

The Viper didn’t use his RKO but that was still outta nowhere. Hardy wins, but now his prize is Orton adding on by banging Hardy’s head against steel steps! Orton won’t wait for Sunday, he wants to erase Hardy now. Orton grabs a chair and brings it over. He stalks his prey, then SMACKS Hardy on the back! Then he jabs it into those bad ribs, before another SMACK! Orton embraces all the heat from the fans while he hears those voices in his head. He waits for Hardy to stand up again, but Hardy denies the RKO! Hardy wants teh Twist but is denied, so he gets the chair! Hardy SMACKS, SMACKS, SMACKS and SMACKS! Orton is reeling but Hardy still smacks him. Orton flounders, and into the Twist of Fate!

But Hardy isn’t done there! He climbs up top, SWANTON BOMB! Hardy didn’t get it on Nakamura but he gets it on Orton here. Orton is gasping as he retreats, and the Enigma stands tall. Will Hardy avoid being erased by the bitter bite of The Viper? Or will he make Orton OBSOLETE once and for all?

Backstage interview with The Miz & Maryse.

But Miz wants Kayla to give them the proper respect. Maryse is in the spotlight, so this is the interview with Maryse and Miz. They will face Daniel Bryan & Brie Bella in mixed tag action this Sunday, but tonight’s main event will see the singles return of Maryse, something we haven’t seen in roughly 7 years. Is she ready? Are you kidding? It took Bryan three years to return to the ring, but it took Maryse five months after giving birth to return. She’s ready. Maryse vows to make Miz proud, and show little Monroe Sky how great mommy is when she punches Brie in the face.

Miz adds on by saying that there’s a reason these two are called the hardest hitting couple in WWE today. Do you know what Bryan & Brie are called? The Yes Couple? Is it? No, they’re the “Sure Couple”. As in they say, “Sure, I’ll settle for them.” Their marriage was one of convenience. But they aren’t very convenient, Bryan needs his wife to pay the bills and fight his battles. And if Bryan tries something, Maryse will slap the taste out of his mouth. “And that will be… AWESOME!” Will the It Couple make tonight’s main event must-see? Or will we see Maryse get shown up by #BrieMode?

AJ Styles was in the arena alone earlier today.

The Phenomenal One admits Samoa Joe knows his weakness is his temper. And Styles loses his temper quickest when it comes to his family. Joe brought both Styles’ wife and daughter into this. Joe thinks he has the advantage. Maybe he does. But after almost 20 years of friendship, Styles knows things about Joe. Joe has his own family. The difference is, Styles would never mess with Joe’s family. Styles has integrity, which is a strength. Joe’s strength is running his mouth and intimidating, as well as being a piece of… garbage. But all of Joe’s strength will become his weakness. When the bell rings, no one has the upper-hand on AJ Styles.

At Hell in a Cell, the talk stops, the intimidation ends, and Joe will get a reminder of what happens when someone talks about Styles’ family. Styles gave Joe a taste last week, and in five days, Joe will see how Phenomenal Styles really is. SmackDown is still the House that AJ Styles Built! “And it’s not for rent. And it damn sure isn’t for sale.”

Backstage interview with Charlotte Flair.

She has a huge match with Becky Lynch at Hell in a Cell, but why is she having a match here tonight? Because she thrives on competition. Charlotte is competitive, but not Becky. Becky complains about Charlotte holding everyone back, yet Charlotte is insecure? Becky gets her opportunity, and if there’s one person Charlotte is willing to bet on, it’s herself. Charlotte will show that it’s easier to talk the talk than to walk the walk. She sure hopes Becky is watching this.

Charlotte Flair VS Sonya Deville w/ Mandy Rose!

The Queen wanted this match, but will she regret giving the Gladiator Gal a chance to shine this close to PPV Sunday?

The bell rings and the two circle. Charlotte avoids Sonya lunging in a couple times, but can’t get away the third time. She counters with a facelock but Sonya gets a facelock back. They trade and roll around, but Charlotte gets a takedown to a headlock. Fans “WOO~!” for Charlotte but Sonya throws her off the hold. They circle again and now Sonya gets the takedown and jackknife. TWO as Charlotte bridges out and goes for a backslide. Sonya counters and bends Charlotte back with a neckbreaker. Sonya kicks away on Charlotte in a corner, then snapmares Charlotte to the center. She hits a stiff sliding knee, covers, TWO! Sonya stalks Charlotte and brings her up, but Charlotte small packages. TWO, and Sonya knees low.

Sonya keeps on Charlotte with a whip but Charlotte reverses. Sonya sunset flips but Charlotte counters with the Flair knee drop! Charlotte runs but Mandy swipes at her! Sonya capitalizes with a strong forearm, but Charlotte boots her back! Charlotte recovers while Sonya flounders, we go to break.

SmackDown returns and Sonya has Charlotte in a standing abdominal stretch. Sonya hammers away on CHarlotte’s ribs, but fans rally up for Charlotte. CHarlotte slips out but gets shoulders and a shove. Charlotte suneset flips but Sonya silps out, so Charlotte gives her a big back suplex! Both women slowly stand, and it’s Sonya who hits first with forearms. Charlotte chops with those Flair chops, and backs Sonya down to a corner. She chops and chops, but then Sonya dodges. SOnya swings but gets the backbreaker and STO! Charlotte holds herself up, then slowly climbs up top. She MOONSAULTS, but gets knees! Spinebuster added, cover, TWO! Sonya can’t believe it! She drags Charlotte up again, and throws muay thai knees. She whips but Charlotte reverses, only for Sonya to reverse it back to a triangle!

Charlotte holds on, and then deadlifts Sony up! Rebound of the ropes then the sit-out! Cover, TWO!! Somehow Sonya survives, but now Charlotte has the Figure Four! Charlotte bridges, Figure Eight! Sonya taps, Charlotte wins!

Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission

The Queen made Sonya tap out tonight, but it took so much to get there. Will Charlotte be good to go for Hell in a Cell against the Relent-Lass Lynch? Or is this finally Becky’s time to take back the spotlight?

Wait, someone from the stands attacks! It’s Becky in disguise!! The Straight Fire comes for Charlotte with a kick at the ramp! Becky stalks Charlotte, and puts her in the Disarm-Her! Fans are divided as Becky pulls Charlotte’s arm all the way back. Referees appear and get Becky to back off, but the message has been sent. “It’s been two years too long”, but will it only be five days more before she’s champion again?

Samoa Joe has a message for everyone.

“Gather ’round, everyone, and quiet down. I’m going to read you a bedtime story.” Joe has just the tale, but don’t worry, it has a happy ending. It’s called, “Night Night, AJ – by Samoa Joe.” There once was a man who lived in a house, that he built for his kids and his house. Styles defended against one and against all, and felt 10 feet tall. His head in the clouds, high above all, he forgot his own family, not even a call. Until a man appeared, the Submission Machine. Joe heard of the “house of broken promises and lies.” The child was frightened, the wife distraught, and hoped and prayed that a lesson would be taught. Things were terrible, horribly bad, but the Warrior had a solution by becoming their new dad.

The arrogant fool drew battle lines, but to emerge victorious, it wouldn’t take much. Just a snatch and a drag, and a Coquina Clutch. Styles’ ego is no more, he was a fool asleep on the floor. A new champion stands as the man of the house, while that 10 foot tall man is small as a mouse. The hero conquered the day, good night to Wendy, Annie, and especially AJ. Joe says this is “The End” of their story, but will Styles make sure the ending is rewritten at Hell in a Cell?

Backstage interview with Becky Lynch.

But she doesn’t care about questions. She promised to break Charlotte’s arm, and she still will, after taking the title back. Becky has never been this ruthless. Is this what she needs to finally become champion again?

SmackDown Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Match: Rusev Day VS The Bar!

The New Day were the team to finally stop the Bludgeon Brothers and take those belts away, but it took a No Disqualification match to do it. It also took Harper & Rowan out of action for a time, so in the meantime, the champions need contenders. That’s where the contenders tournament came in, pitting six teams in two separate triple threats to then determine finalists! Will the Bulgarian Brute & Drama King overcome the Swiss Cyborg & Celtic Gladiator? Or will Rusev Day fail to be better than the team that doesn’t just set the bar, but ARE the Bar?!

Speakng of the New Day, “ya bois” have their own announce desk again! They’re getting word that “Kramer Kingsman” is getting word with The Bar backstage. And somehow someway, Kramer is backstage watching The Bar finish preparations. The Bar in their natural habitat, but will they be like bad milk and spoil things for Rusev & English? Back to you, Kofi! Wow, what a great professional he is. Shenanigans aside, both teams make their entrance. English sings says they’ll steal the spotlight, win the fight and earn the right to take on the champs. Everybody watch as The Bar gives way, so that the titles will be won on… RUSEV DAAAAAAY~! With that, both teams are in the ring, and we begin!

SmackDown shifts to picture in picture as Cesaro starts with English. They tie up and go aruond, but English bails out before he can be isolated. English gets back in and ties up with Cesaro. English gets a headlock but Cesaro reverses to his own. They go to ropes and Engilsh powers out, but Cesaro runs him over. Cesaro runs but things speed up, English arm-drags Cesaro overhead! He puts Cesoar int he corner and tags in Rusev! Rusev whips ENglish in for the back elbow, then English feeds Cesaro tot he lariat. Cover, TWO! Rusev keeps on Cesaro with haymakers, then shoulders in the corner. He wrenches but Cesaro knees and clubs him back. Tag to Sheamus and Sheamus kicks Rusev. Sheamus suplexes but Rusev resists. Rusev cuonters and gets Sheamus up and over! Cover, TWO, but Rusev drops elbows.

Rusev grabs Sheamus in a facelock, and we return to single picture. Sheamus powers Rusev back to ropes, and they separate. Rusev senses Cesaro lurking and hits him first, only to get run over by Sheamus. Cover, ONE, but Sheamus keeps on Rusev with an arm wrench. Tag to Cesaro as New Day comments on the action. Cesaro gives a European Uppercut and a scoop slam. He wraps Rusv in a chinlock, and the New Day cannot predict who faces them. Fans rally up for “Rusev Day!” as Rusev stands up. Cesaro tags to Sheamus and hands the headlock off. Sheamus grinds Rusev but Rusev stays standing. Rusev arm-drags Sheamus off, and boots Sheamus away. English tags in, climbs up and leaps! Crossbody connects, and he fires off hands.

Sheamus reverses the whip but gets a mule kick. English runs for the swinging neckbreaker! English swings on Cesaro and manages to slip out of the saido suplex. HE dumps Sheamus otu then dumps Cesaro out. Rusev comes in and helps English FLY! English wipes out The Bar and feeds Sheamus in. English puts Sheamus in, falling DDT! Cover, TWO! The New Day enjoy what they see while Sheamus rolls out. English pursues and puts him back inside, but Cesaro goes after him. Rusev backs Cesaro off but Sheamus knees English down! English rolls back out, Sheamus tags Cesaro, and Cesaro gives English a BIG EuroUpper. Cesaro then throws pancakes around before putting English back in.

Cesaro gives English more EuroUppers, then tag Sheamus. They give him double mudhole stomps, then Sheamus clobbers with a clothesline. Cover, TWO! Tag back to Cesaro, and they mug English. Cesaro wrap on a chinlock, but fans rally up for Rusev Day while we go to break.

SmackDown returns and Sheamus has English in the Canadian torture rack. English fights out and jawbreakers Sheamus away. Sheamus runs back in but only gets post! English crawls for his corner but Rusev is still down. Cesaro checks on Sheamus but Rusev returns! Fans fire up as Sheamus tags Cesaro, but English tags Rusev! Rusev rallies on Cesaro, and hits a big shoulder. Rusev keeps moving for the leaping spin kick! THe Bulgarian Lion roars as he stalks the Swiss Cyborg. Rusev stomps and aims, but misses the Machka kick. Cesaro runs but into a pop-up knee and roundhouse! Cover, TWO! But Rusev is not deterred, he is only determined. The New Day see that determination, and respect the “CRUSH!” Accolade is on! Cesaro endures, but Sheamus slips in to clobber Rusev. Sheamus is pushed back out, but Rusev runs into a EuroUpper!

Tag to Sheamus, and they double DDT! Cover, TWO!! Sheamus can’t believe it but Lafayette is fired up for Rusev. Sheamus puts Rusev in his corner but Rusev fights ought! He bounces Ceasro off the post and rolls Sheamus up, TWO! Sheamus hits a tilt-o-whirl slam! Cover, TWO! The Bar cannot believe the resilience of Rusev, but Lana and teh fans keep cheering him on. Sheamus calls for his own kick, and he watches Rusev slowly stir. Sheamus runs at Rusev, but English intercepts to take the Brogue! Rusev MACHKA KICK! Cover, Rusev Day wins!!

Winners: Team Rusev Day, Rusev pinning; #1 contenders to the SmackDown Tag Team Championships

Even The New Day celebrate this one! This is a great Rusev Day for Rusev Day, but this is only the beginning. Can Hell in a Cell Sunday be an even greater Rusev Day when they bring home the gold? Or will the titles stay with the Five-Time champions?

Andrade “Cien” Almas w/ Zelina Vega VS R-Truth w/ Carmella!

El Idolo & La Muneca have been on a short downtrend while the newly created #FABULOUSTruth have been on the rise already! Will Truth show Almas #WhatsUp just a week before the Mixed Match Challenge begins again? Or will Truth only be #CienKnees?

SmackDown returns as Almas & Vega make their entrance. Fans echo “What’s Up?!” with Truth as the bell rings. Truth and Almas circle, but Almas kicks and chops Truth to a corner. Truth fires back but Almas stops that quick. Almas runs but into the headscissors! Truth rocks Almas with a haymaker, then whips corner to corner. Almas reverses but Truth goes up and over to handspring. Almas handsprings to PELE Truth! Cover, TWO! Almas stomps Truth then throws forearms. Vega wants Almas to finish Truth, but Truth fights back. Almas rocks Truth with a knee, then wraps on a facelock. Carmella rallies fans and Truth resists the suplex. Truth blocks then counters to gordbuster Almas down!

Vega tells Almas to shake it off quick, but Carmella coaches Truth up. Truth throws hands on Almas, then splits to hit teh calf kick! Fans fire up with Truth as he does mroe splits. Truth runs corner to corner for the splash! He kicks low, then runs, but Almas dodges the scissor kick. Truth shoves Almas, but he and Vega double Tranquilo. Carmella comes around to change that as she drags Vega to the floor! Almas doesn’t like that, but he manages to standing switch and roll up. Almas has hold of the pants, and Almas wins!

Winner: Andrade “Cien” Almas, by pinfall

Carmella was trying to help, but she couldn’t have expected Almas to cheat like that. El Idolo gets away with the win, but will he be reaching new heights if that’s what ti ta

Backstage interview with Asuka.

The Empress of Tomorrow helped Naomi out against The IIconics. Why? Naomi pops in to thank Asuka, and also wants to know why. Well the IIconics are so mean, and their accents make it hard to understand them. But they’re also fun to hit. Naomi likes Asuka’s attitude, and the glow. Go? No, glow. Oh! Yes, glow! Asuka loves teriyaki. Teriyaki? Wanna get some? Sure! This pair is eccentric to say the least, but will they be able to keep the future from being IIconic?

Brie Bella w/ Daniel Bryan VS Maryse w/ The Miz!

Bryan VS Miz was “Eight Years in the Making”, but so was this! Maryse returns to action after so long, but will she be ready for #BriMode?

The bell rings and Brie circles with Maryse. These former Diva’s Champions circle, but then Maryse ducks out the second Brie rushes her. Miz has Brie stay back while Maryse just grins and laughs. Miz applauds his wife and gives her a quick pep talk. Maryse returns to the ring, then circles with Brie. Brie rushes Maryse again but Maryse uses the ropes for shelter. Brie grows annoyed but Maryse tosses her hair. Maryse ducks out again, but Brie got really close that time. The It Couple talk, but Brie calls Maryse out as a coward. Maryse is angry now, but not so much that she won’t duck back out when Brie goes after her.

Miz talks back. “You think we’re cowards?!” Lafayette says “YES! YES!” Miz says Brie doesn’t even deserve to be in the same ring as Maryse! Maryse is the two times Diva’s Champ and one of the longest reigning champs ever! Five months after giving birth and Maryse is back in the ring, but neither Brie nor this city deserves her! He is calling this main event match off. The It Couple plan to wait until Hell in a Cell and start walking. But Bryan and Brie decide to give chase! Brie gets Maryse from behind by her hair! And she brings her all the way back to bump her off the apron! Twice! Three times! Four times, and then into the ring. Brie has the fans fired up, but Miz distracts. Bryan runs Miz off, but Maryse SUPERKICKS! Cover, TWO!

Miz and Maryse keep their cool, and they mock the “YES! YES!” chants. Maryse prepares her “hardest punch”, but Bryan rallies the fans for Brie. Maryse gets caught into Brie’s Yes Lock! But Miz drags Brie right out!

Winner: Brie Bella, by disqualification

But Bryan just goes after Miz! He unleashes on Miz against he barriers, and then into the ring! Brie gets back up but Bryan is thrown out onto her! Bryan realizes what happens and checks on Brie. Brie is hurting, and Bryan calls for medics to check on her. However, Miz goes after Bryan and throws him into steel steps! Then Maryse stomps away on Brie! Maryse bumps Brie off the apron in return for earlier, even as the referee orders her to stop. Maryse has Brie in the ring, but Brie Thezs Presses!

Miz gets in but Brie scares him with a glare. But this is so Maryse can snatch hair. But Brie slips out of the DDT. Bryan returns and goes after Miz more! He fires off the YES KICKS! Bryan vows to punch Miz out, but Miz turns around, to get a punch from Brie first! Then Bryan clotheslines Miz out! The YES Couple are in control, but will things go their way at Hell in a Cell? Or will they get to punch the It Couple in their smug faces to settle this once and for all?

My Thoughts:

SmackDown did much better than Raw, again. For one, they’re not bogging themselves down with build outside of Hell in a Cell, but they also didn’t give us more review than new action. Hardy VS Nakamura was a great opening match, and of course Orton appears to screw the match. But it was also great that Hardy stands tall in the fight after. We can all just feel Hardy jumping off the Cell for the Super Swanton he’s always wanted, but I can’t be sure he wins. It’d be odd for Orton’s mission to erase the heroes of the WWE Universe to fail the first time out. Though, just look at Bray Wyatt’s entire main roster run…

Charlotte VS Sonya was really good, Sonya looks strong even in losing. Becky’s surprise attack was so great, she’s really embracing this Heel Not Heel turn and fans are eating it up. This match is going to be great, but it’s so hard to call. Becky winning would be great, because the iron is hot and fans would go nuts. At the same time, winning at Hell in a Cell could end up making Becky only a transitional champion given Super Show Down and Evolution coming up next. At the same time, delaying Becky becoming champ again runs the risk of things cooling off, so I’d just pull the trigger now and figure things out. Speaking of, WWE needs to figure Asuka and Naomi out. Asuka shouldn’t be dragged into some kind of tag team story, she should be at Evolution in a singles title match.

Styles and Joe have really great promos going into their match, but especially Joe’s storybook. It is a shame we’re only getting one Cell match per brand because Styles VS Joe already has a build worthy of one. Of course, this feud could easily be used for the next few PPV’s, so let’s just hope the action in this match is already levels higher than the Styles VS Nakamura series. Speaking of Nakamura, he needs a challenger some time soon, so maybe some kind of Open Challenge and anyone from R-Truth to Tye Dillinger to even Almas for just some great wrestling. Almas and Truth have a decent match, but it’s a shame Almas won with a cheat. Though, that does help keep Truth strong, he deserves to have something again.

Rusev also deserves something, so he and English getting the contenders spot is great. I would love if they surprised us by having Rusev Day win at Hell in a Cell. Granted, New Day are a strong team, but it’s not like their fifth reign needs to be a long one. New Day already has the record and achieved the Five-Time threshold, so they can let this one go. The match will still be great, but the ones who need the win are Rusev Day, not New Day. Meanwhile, Brie VS Maryse was not a good main event match. Granted, it was never going to be just about them, and in a vacuum, that fight between the two couples was good. The mixed tag could go either away, but I doubt this will really end Bryan VS Miz as a feud. I think it’d take a title to do that.

My Score: 8/10

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

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Coverage

Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 5.2.2024

Under Siege is tomorrow! Yeah the card looks pretty awful, but maybe this Go Home will spice things up!

Published

4 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Andrew Balaz

Not gonna mislead anyone here, Under Siege looks nearly as bad as a Steven Segal film by the same name. Lots of useless tag matches, only really the X Division title to care about. It reminds me of a “Road to” show that New Japan does. Bunch of worthless matches with a few story wrinkles but entirely skippable.

Hopefully something crazy happens or the show is good enough to cover the bad card. But let’s hope something happens tonight to maybe create some reason to watch.

.@TheSamiCallihan debuts the first episode of #DMTV! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/OWrTeBtRZ6

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

Ratings:

Mustafa Ali vs Chris Bey w/Ace Austin: Ali wins via 450 – **
Dani Luna w/Jody Threat vs Alisha Edwards w/Masha Slamovich: Lish wins via Russian Death Device – ** 1/4
Hammerstone vs Cody Deaner: Hammerstone wins via Torture Rack – *
#1 Contender Match: Ace Austin w/Chris Bey vs Trey Miguel w/Zachary Wentz: Ace wins via The Fold – ***
TNA Knockouts Championship: Jordynne Grace (c) vs Miyu Yamashita: Grace retains via Juggernaut Driver – *** 1/2

Results:

Mustafa Ali vs Chris Bey w/Ace Austin

Ali with a simple Headlock takeover, Bey fights back up and tries to create something with a rope run; but Ali gets the best of things with a Back Elbow. Ali gets cocky as Bey retreats to the corner, Bey turns things around quickly, lands the 10 Count Punches in the corner, Ali tries to fight back but Bey snaps off a quick DDT for a near fall. As Bey goes to continue the offense, Ali Drop Toe Holds Bey into the ropes neck first. Ali again, demonstrating some of the worst in-ring trash talk, Bey turns things around since Ali is running his mouth too much. Ali gets set in the Tree of Woe, Bey goes across to another corner and does a Coast to Coast Elbow Drop as Ali tries to sit up. Honestly, stupid looking since its obviously too coordinated. No one would stay half sat up just to eat an elbow.

While the move looked cool, I now care significantly less about what’s going on. Illogical spots just because “they’re cool”, should not be rewarded. Bey controls the match after the stupid spot, hits his Corner Uppercut Hip Attack, Ali tries to duck a few moves and create something but eats a Spinebuster for 2. Art of Finesse attempt, but Ali shoves him to the outside. Working back inside Ali goes for his Rolling Neckbreaker but Bey connects with a Roundhouse Kick to stop Ali in his tracks. Fighting Spirit spot, they run into the ropes, Ali has a bad Double Leg takedown that he tries to turn into a Cradle with feet on the ropes, but Ace pushes the feet off.

As security starts to move on Ace, Ali hits a Suicida, then Bey connects on a Tope con Hilo. Bey starts rocking Ali, hits the Kudome Valentine but Ali manages to pull himself under the bottom rope just enough to avoid losing. Bey climbs the corner, Ali German Suplexes Bey to the apron, Ali goes for the 450, misses, Bey goes to finish the match but the security get involved again, hit Bey with the flag and then Ali lands the 450 for the win.

I liked when the Security Guards were window dressing instead of mooks to cheat with. This just makes the matches dumber and significantly less interesting, especially when its nameless mooks and its not even a talent getting heat.

Dani Luna w/Jody Threat vs Alisha Edwards w/Masha Slamovich

Dani starts strong and fast, forearm shots, lariats and a quick near fall sends Alisha retreating to the ropes to get some advice from Masha. Dani goes to attack Lish, Lish with a Drop Toe Hold, Masha takes advantage of the distracted ref and Lish hits a Satellite DDT and then taunts entirely too much. As Lish talks too much, Dani stands up and starts beating the hell out of Lish, Suplex into the rope assisted Blue Thunder Bomb. Dani goes for the Luna Landing, but Masha climbs on the apron, distraction happens, then Lish goes after Jody and the ref stays distracted with Lish. Masha slides into the ring, Roundhouse Kick into the Russian Death Device and Lish turns around for the win!

Sami’s little segment is aptly named DMTv since it feels like a weird hallucination or trip with the way he does stuff.

Hammerstone vs Cody Deaner

Am I supposed to care about this? Hammerstone looks like he’s chiseled out of granite and Deaner looks like he’s fished out of a trailer park. Hammerstone says a lot of how I feel that the Deaner schtick is pathetic. Deaner says he’s given the power to add a stipulation, Hammer says Arm Wrestling Match, Deaner wants a Sin City Street Fight. So we know what the crowd will pick. Christ this is so carny even Court Bauer blushed.

Deaner bonks Hammer with the mic, low dropkick, goes to grab a trash can lid and hits Hammer…but it just pisses off Captain Hammer. Stomps a mudhole in him, Irish Whip into a Back Elbow and Hammer deposits him to the outside to utilize the gimmick I would assume. This is going on much longer than it should, Deaner finds a chair, clocks Hammer once, goes for Twice, but this isn’t Kpop; so Hammer says no and hits him with a Backbreaker. Then Hammer hits him with a chairshot, 10 Count Punches in the corner, Sack of Shit, Deaner goes for the Ricky Morton lean against the ropes and sell to the crowd spot, but Hammer leans into him and starts using the chair again.

Deaner does his nerd Hulk Up, tries to call for a Body Slam but Hammer doesn’t move and drops the dweeb down. Deaner is back to the begging the crowd Ricky Morton spot…but the crowd doesn’t care since Deaner is a jabroni. Hammer tosses Deaner like a pizza ribs first into the back of the chair and just takes a few moments to revel in his handwork. Deaner fights back, lands a few right hands, tries to call for the Body Slam again like an idiot, gets Hammer half way and falls over so Hammer just rains down punches (can we end this waste of time please). Hellavator, I mean Nightmare Pendulum but Deaner floats over and lands the Scoop Slam onto the steel chair for only 2.

The crowd starts chanting for table, so of course Deaner obliges…this is going on so damn long. Hammer no sells the forearm, Vertical Suplex, goozle, and then Hammer Chokeslams Deaner through the table and calls to for the Torture Rack. Deaner is Rack’d and dead. ‘Bout damn time.

Like a Torpedo, Something is there…

Trent The Seventh and Ball Of Speed, alongside Broken Matt Hardy, are geared up to render The System obsolete tomorrow night at #TNAUnderSiege! pic.twitter.com/laEOlXayIc

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

I’m mad at myself that I popped for Ball of Speed. I’m not even sure why, but I like it.

"Can you please get fired?"

.@joehendry's live apology transformed into a new hit about @AJFrancis410! The "apology" song took things HIGHER than ever! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/6P7pDFbK3p

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

If I’ve said it once I’ve said it at least 3 dozen times, Joe Hendry is a treasure. Starting with a medley of the insult songs to lead into the Creed parody is genius. Odd apology, but I respect it. “Can you please get fired…”, such a great song.

#1 Contender Match: Ace Austin w/Chris Bey vs Trey Miguel w/Zachary Wentz

Typical Junior style start with counters and some chain wrestling and then a quick tension spot where Trey slaps Ace and then they fire off on each other for a few seconds before they get broken up because its just a shmoz. Trey baits Ace to the outside, Up and Over but Ace lands on the apron and then Wentz picks the ankle as Trey feigns injury to distract the referee. Back Rake back into the ring and just insulting Knife Edge Chops at a deliberate pace. Commercial break happens and Trey is still in charge. Ace shoots the Double and turns it into a Jacknife Cradle for 2 but Ace is still visibly hobbled.

Trey tries to keep Ace grounded but he tries to fire up and Trey finds different ways to keep Ace grounded including a Running Bodyscissors into Full Mount. Kick combination rush from Trey as he goes for the Asai Moonsault to punctuate it but Ace gets the knees up. Short range Knee Strike, Click Click Boom, Corner Splash Seated Lariat spot into a Triangle Kick for 2! Ace looks to set up The Fold, Wentz distracts, Trey grabs tights! But Ace kicks out! Trey with the Backflip Back of the Head Dropkick. Bey levels Wentz and Trey is talking shit to the fans, Ace goes for the Crucifix Pin, but kicks out at 2.

Jackie Bryant Headlock Kick from Trey, but Ace blocks it. Triangle Kick misses, Ace tries to jump on him but misses, Cheeky Nandos, then Trey heads up but Ace cuts him off. They struggle on the top rope, Trey Bell Claps Ace, Ace tries to duck but Trey turns it into the Sunset Flip, locomotion float away, Ace Face Stomp into The Fold! Ace wins!

.@TheEricYoung and @Walking_Weapon make their intentions clear: they're walking into #TNAUnderSiege ready to take down @SteveMaclin and @FrankieKazarian! #TNAiMPACT pic.twitter.com/idI78rvsYJ

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 3, 2024

The Bald Bearded Canadians, good ole team BBC…wait…

TNA Knockouts Championship: Jordynne Grace (c) vs Miyu Yamashita

They start off respectfully, which is what you expect since Miyu is well respected in this generation. A few Headlock Takeovers, Shoulder Blocks and finally Miyu drops Jordynne with a Switchblade Kick. Miyu goes to follow up, but Jordynne catches the kick and T-Bone Suplex gives Jordynne a near fall. Juggernaut Driver early, but Miyu counters, rams Jordynne into the corner, Triangle Kick from Miyu for 2! Cravat into Knee Strikes and then a PK to the spine keeps Miyu in control. Miyu lets Jordynne up and they trade strikes a bit, Jordynne’s arms prove to be a little stronger than Miyu’s legs, takes out the legs and then the Jackhammer on the floor from Jordynne!

Jordynne tries to roll Miyu back in, but Miyu continues to roll out to buy some space, Jordynne goes for a dive and eats a foot. Miyu looks for an Apron Death Valley Driver, Jordynne fights it a while but Miyu eventually gets her over and down on the apron for 2. Miyu with a Headlock Takeover, but both ties the other one up and the ropes save the awkward but effective exchange. Strike exchange number 2. Miyu no sells a few Scoop Slams and lands Round Kicks. Spinning Backfist and Round Kick connect simultaneously for both women to drop.

Jordynne charges, Pink Striker tries to block with the front kick, but Jordynne plows through with a Back Elbow. Kinniku Buster attempt but Miyu knows how to get away from that and fights off with Knee Strikes, Jordynne is rocked but fights back up and Avalanche Back Body Drop for 2! Jordynne no sells a Roundhouse Kick, Miyu no sells a Lariat then another kick from Miyu and a Back Kick to the face for 2. Skull Kick attempt, blocked, Juggernaut Driver out of nowhere to retain!

Overall Score: 6.25/10

The second half of the show was pretty damn good, but God was the first half useless. Hammerstone and Deaner went on far too long, that was dumb, it looked dumb, I felt dumb watching it. Ali’s match was garbage with the stupid spot monkey indie garbage spot. If I want to watch wrestling that makes less sense than Chinese Dramas with Hindi subtitles, I’ll watch AEW and have a stroke.

Thankfully, Joe Hendry got a good chunk of time, the Trey and Ace match was pretty good and overlooking the stupid run in after match stuff, the Knockouts match itself was pretty damn good. So the new bookers have really consistently done this stuff, where there’s a ton of overbooked stupidity, but they sprinkle in enough okay stuff to make me not completely lose faith. OH – and we do get Kushida versus Gresham tomorrow, so at least that strengthens the lackluster card.

Lets see if they ever figure out how to really book, or if they eventually go full TNA 2015.

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (5/2/24)

The Queen is chasing the crown!

Published

8 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Steven Mitchell

Will the One and Only become the #1 contender?

Queen Aminata wants after Athena and the ROH Women’s World Championship, but she will still earn her way to a shot, starting with a match tonight!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

The Infantry VS The Outrunners; The Infantry wins.
Nyla Rose VS Camron Branae; Nyla wins.
ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Grounds: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Qrown; The Kingdom wins and denies The Qrown a title match.
Toa Liona VS Jimmy Wild; Liona wins.
Six Man Tag: The Dark Order VS Adam Priest, Zicky Dice & Sean Maluta; The Dark Order wins.
Aaron Solo VS Jon Cruz; Solo wins.
Queen Aminata VS Robyn Renegade; Aminata wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

The Infantry VS The Outrunners!

Captain Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo have had it with Turbo Floyd & Truth Magnum! It’s one thing to use the same finishing move and rename it, but then The Outrunners’ new gear is camouflage, and they start using the Infantry’s catchphrases! Will Turbo & Truth get sent to Boot Camp? Or will Dean & Bravo be sent into Miami Overdrive?

Wait a minute, wait a minute. Who is this accompanying The Outrunners? Lazer Linda? So now they’re copying Infantry in having a female team member? Trish Adora steps into the ring to get a good look at Linda. Linda flexes on Adora, so Adora gives her a LARIAT TUBMAN! The Outrunners are upset but then Dean & Bravo storm up to throw hands! The ref reprimands but The Infantry keep throwing hands. Dean whips Truth and Bravo whips Turbo, but the Outrunners both reverse that. Dean and Bravo both dodge, then they both fake the Outrunners out! Those dropkicks get nothing, and then The Infantry DROPKICK The Outrunners!

The Outrunners bail out, The Infantry fire up and Daily’s Place fires up with them! The ref says they finally need to sort out, so Bravo falls back. Truth flounders in, the bell finally sounds, and Dean arm-drags Turbo around! Dean keeps Turbo from Truth, tags Bravo in, and then Dean wrenches while Bravo hops up. Bravo AX HANDLES Turbo’s arm, then brings him around to wrench. Tag to Dean, he goes up and AX HANDLES! Then the Infantry double whip, and double atomic drop, for a double HIP TOSS! The Infantry now mock The Outrunners, before the double FIST DROP! Turbo flounders away and tags in Truth!

Truth runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Then another DOUBLE FIST DROP! Cover, TWO! Truth stays in this but Dean storms up on him. Turbo distracts the ref, Truth pokes Dean in the eye! Truth blames it on the sunset, then bumps Dean off buckles. Tag to Turbo and the Outrunners mug Dean. Tag back to Truth, he goes up, BACKBREAKER, and then Truth winds up! But Bravo sneaks behind enemy lines to get Dean outta there, Truth’s knee drop turns into an accidental atomic drop! The Infantry then get in and TOSS Turbo! Bravo aims to PLANCHA! Down goes Turbo and the fans fire up again!

Dean brings Truth up, throws hands, then tags in Bravo. Dean scoops Truth, Bravo goes up, and they hit the BACKBREAKER and “Grenade” KNEE DROP! The fans fire up more and Bravo brings Truth up. Truth throws a shot but Bravo hits back. Bravo whips, Truth reverses, but Bravo gets around! Turbo tags in before the O’Conner Roll! Turbo runs up but Bravo dodges him to SUPERKICK! Turbo ends up on ropes, and Bravo ROCKS Truth! Bravo whips, Truth reverses and Turbo BODY SHOTS! Turbo BLASTS Dean, gets Bravo, and sends him into Truth’s BOOTS! Bravo staggers, Turbo CLAWS him on the back!

Tag to Truth and the Outrunners mug Turbo. The fans are torn, but Truth CHOPS Bravo in a corner! Truth spins around while the fans “WOO~!” Truth then storms back up, whips corner to corner, but Bravo reverses. Bravo runs up, but slides under as Truth goes up! Bravo then trips Truth, and asks if he should. The fans say yes, so Bravo YANKS Truth backwards into the POST! Bravo high-fives fans, but then Turbo FLYING AX HANDLES off the apron! Dean protests but there’s nothing he can do as Turbo puts Bravo back in. Truth drags Bravo over, tags Turbo, and Turbo drops an elbow! Cover, TWO!

Turbo drags Bravo up, tags Truth back in, and they mug Bravo with a big kick! Bravo sputters while the Outrunners flex. Truth whips, Bravo sunset flips, but Truth flails! Truth reaches for the literal sunset but Bravo finishes the flip, TWO! Bravo reaches for Dean but Truth trips him up! Tag to Turbo, and he drops down into a CROSSFACE! Bravo endures, fights up, but Turbo tags Truth. The Infantry get Bravo up, but Bravo BOOTS Turbo away! Bravo ELBOWS Truth, then ROCKS Turbo! And repeat! And repeat! Bravo runs, but into the DOUBLE HIP TOSS! The Outrunners shake hands and flex, DOUBLE ELBOW DROP!

Turbo BLASTS Dean, Truth covers, but Dean gets back in to kick it! Truth is upset but he stomps Bravo. Truth whips Bravo to the corner, then he BLASTS Dean again! Truth runs at Bravo but Bravo slips out to the apron! Truth hits buckles, Turbo storms up but Bravo dodges by going back inside! Bravo then slips out the other side, and Truth runs into Turbo! Bravo slingshots in for a STUNNER! The fans fire up as Bravo crawls for his corner, but Turbo grabs a foot! Turbo drags Bravo up, back suplexes, but Bravo lands out! Bravo avoids both Outrunners to hot tag Dean! The fans fire up as The Captain rallies on The Outrunners!

Dean fires haymakers and LARIATS! Then a back drop for Truth! The fans fire up as Dean runs in to give Turbo a FLYING BACK ELBOW! Dean goes corner to corner, blocks Truth’s boots, and puts him in ropes for an ENZIGIRI! Truth flops down, Turbo takes a swing, but Dean slips around to DDT! Dean kips up, the fans fire up, and they join Dean in an “OORAH!” JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, Truth breaks it! Truth TOSSES Dean out, but Bravo runs up! CARLIE CROSSOVER! Down goes Truth, but Turbo CLUBS Bravo! BIG back suplex! But Dean’s up top! FLYING SPLASH! Cover, Truth runs in, but Dean moves! The AX HANDLE hits Turbo!

Truth panics and apologizes, but then sees Dean! Truth wants mercy, but then he goes to poke eyes! Dean blocks those, bends those fingers, but Turbo CLUBS Dean down! The Outrunners shift into gear, MIAMI OVER- NO, Dean slips around and the BOOT hits Truth! Tag to Bravo and they get Turbo, for BOOT CAMP! Cover, Infantry wins!

Winners: The Infantry, by pinfall

Often imitated, never duplicated! The one, true Russian Leg Sweep Boot combo shines through, and that’s no cap! Dean & Bravo finally settle things with Turbo & Truth, will they march forward to settle things with The Undisputed Kingdom next?

Matthew Menard & Angelo Parker speak.

Cool Hand Ange tells Daddy Magic that things have been rather weird lately, to say the least. Not too long ago, Parker was on Rampage, going to make an announcement he told no one about, and the truth is, he was ready to retire. He felt he didn’t have anything left to fight for. Then he got the biggest news of his entire life, he found out he’s gonna be a dad! And if that doesn’t light a fire under your ass, then what does? So now, Ruby Soho is going to be at home, being a mom to their child, and Parker had to think, “What’s next?” Then he realized, there is a hell of a lot to fight for now, isn’t there?

Menard says how ’bout it? Ruby’s at home, nesting. Cool Hand Ange has priorities in order and Menard loves it! And tell ya right now, Menard has a problem with The Undisputed Kingdom. The ROH World Tag Team Champions, right? So how about this? They get the van, they pack it up, and they start taking a road trip! Van, train, airplane, who cares?! They’re heading to a certain place called The Promised Land! So get ready, boys! No doubt! Ever-Rise, 2Point0, X-JAS, will the next titles Menard & Parker go by be ROH World Tag Team Champions?

ROH World Tag Team Championships Proving Grounds: The Undisputed Kingdom VS The Qrown!

Speaking of, Matt Taven & Mike Bennett are here to defend those titles! Or at least, make teams earn their way to a shot at the titles. Will The Kingdom check another team off the list? Or will Leonis & Maximus Khan be one step away from the crown?

The teams sort out, Bennett starts against Leonis, and the Code of Honor is kept. The bell rings, the fans rally up, and the two circle. They tie up, and the bigger Leonis powers Bennett to the corner. The ref counts, Leonis lets off, but Bennett kicks low! Bennett CHOPS, then brings Leonis around to ROCK him! Bennett stomps and CHOPS Leonis, then tags Taven. The Kingdom double whip, dropkick the legs out then Taven ELBOW DROPS! Cover, TWO! Taven throws down hands, stomps Leonis over and over, even at the ropes! Taven CHOKES Leonis, lets off, and the fans cheer as Taven tags Bennett.

Taven CHOPS Leonis, Bennett stomps and CHOPS, then ROCKS him again! And stomps, and ROCKS! Bennett ROCKS Leonis again, talks trash, then tags Taven. Taven CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS! Taven then reels Leonis in, but Leonis throws body shots! Taven CLUBS Leonis down, tags Bennett, and they bring Leonis in. But Leonis powers out, ROCKS Taven, then ROCKS Bennett! Leonis throws haymakers, then an UPPERCUT for Bennett! Then Leonis catches Taven to OVERHEAD SUPLEX him away! Maximus reaches out but Bennett whips Leonis into a BOOT! Bennett FOREARMS, Taven LARIATS! Bennett covers, TWO!

The fans rally and Bennett stomps Leonis. Bennett CHOPS Leonis, tells him to get up, then brings him to a neutral corner. Bennett ROCKS Leonis, brings him over, and tags Taven. Taven fires up Daily’s Place before he swings, but Leonis dodges to CHOP! And CHOP! Taven knees low, tags Bennett, and The Kingdom double whip. Leonis holds ropes, KICKS Bennett, then TOSSES Taven! Bennett kicks Leonis first, then reels him in, but Leonis back drops free! Hot tag to Maximus! Maximus rallies on The Kingdom with big LARIATS! Bennett runs up, Maximus dodges then URENAGES! The fans fire up with Maximus and he brings Bennett up.

But Taven springboards, KICK OF THE KING! Bennett BLASTS Leonis, Taven goes up! HAIL MARY PILEDRIVER!! Cover, The Kingdom wins!

Winners: The Undisputed Kingdom, by pinfall (denies The Qrown a title opportunity)

Taven & Bennett just showed The Qrown aren’t #NeckStrong enough, and now The Kingdom is moving on. But will they soon cross paths with Menard & Parker?

JD Drake speaks.

“You ever been lost? Lord knows I have. I’ve been lost for the last month. In light of recent events, my brain’s been foggy, I haven’t been able to articulate words, I don’t know whether I’m coming or going. It’s showing up in my in-ring work, it’s showing up in my personal life at home. Hell, it’s showing in my bowling game at home, too. The other night during league, I asked myself, ‘Hey, where do I go from here?'” JD asked the lady cashier for change on $5, he only got back four bills. Three ones, and a $2! Yeah, a real $2, those still exists.

JD says his grandfather recently passed away, February of this year, God rest his soul, would put a $2 in every grandchild’s picture frame. JD once asked why he did that, he said it’s because they’re gonna need to talk to him one day, and this $2 was gonna be the message. Granddad would also say, when times get tough, you’ve got two choices: quit, or tighten your bootstraps up and get back to work. So while the Workhorsmen may not be a thing for the foreseeable future, time for JD to be a workhorse man. The Blue Collar Badass is gonna punch in, knockout, and give ROH a $2 ass kicking. Scrap Metal is ready to scrap, will he turn that $2 into championship gold?

The Iron Savages speak.

Bulk Bronson says, “Underappreciated. Underutilized. Undervalued. We, the Iron Savages, have been parading around like a circus act for an entire year, winning over the hearts of the ROH fans and keeping them all entertained.” Jacked Jameson asks, “Are we in any tournaments?” Bronson & Boulder both say, “No.” Are they on any PPVs? No. And y’know what? No more goofy savages, no more popping the crowd! Boulder says the adoration is not bringing them success. Time for the Iron Savages, yes, the Iron Savages, to live up to their potential! Jameson says frankly, fat morons and skinny idiots don’t deserve their entertainment.

They aren’t changing their game plan, it just means they’re done winning over “Low T losers!” They’re just gonna win. They’re sippin’ sauce, livin’ hoss, and EVERYBODY is going to #TiddyCity! Will these three start tearing their way through the ROH Tag & Trios Divisions until they’re sinking their teeth into titles?

Aaron Solo VS Jon Cruz!

Aaron is tired of riding solo and going nowhere, so in order to get back in the good graces of Johnny TV, he’s gotta get that W back! Or in this case, he just has to get wins period! Will he be able to do that here at Daily’s Place where he became All Elite? Or will Serpentico’s human friend get his own great homecoming win?

Cruz gets the fans fired up as he offers The Code of Honor. Solo takes it, the bell rings, and then Solo kicks low! Solo DECKS Cruz, has him in a corner, and bumps him off buckles. Solo stomps a mudhole in, digs his boots in and laughs, but lets off as the ref counts. Solo brings Cruz up, snap suplexes, then smiles as he soaks up the heat. Cruz flounders, the fans rally, but Solo throws hands. Solo whips, Cruz ducks ‘n’ dodges and RANAS! Solo flounders, Cruz keeps moving and he LARIATS! The fans fire up with Cruz and he brings Solo around. Cruz scoops to POWERSLAM, then fires up as he shakes the ropes!

The fans cheer as Cruz points to a corner. Cruz goes up, aims, and then FROG SPLASH FLOPS as Solo moves! GERMAN SUPLEX! Cruz springs up but Solo gives him the DREAMCAST KICK! Cover, Solo wins!

Winner: Aaron Solo, by pinfall

Solo makes sure Johnny TV saw that! There’s the first win, will he get more and more until he proves he’s TV Ready like Johnny & Taya?

Queen Aminata VS Robyn Renegade!

The One and Only African Woman Wrestler is an uncrowned queen here in ROH, but she is going to fight her way back up to her revenge! Will she be unstoppable as she chases down Athena and Billie Starkz? Or will this Renegade defy Aminata’s authority?

The Code of Honor is kept, the bell rings, and the fans rally for Aminata with “YES, QUEEN!” The two tie up, Aminata headlocks and she grinds Renegade. Renegade brings Aminata down, pops out the back and headlocks in return. Aminata endures, brings Renegade to her knee, and pops out the back to wrench, step over, and twerk attack! The fans cheer but Renegade is frustrated. Aminata hammerlocks, headlocks and hits the takeover. Renegade moves around, fights up, and powers up, only for Aminata to hold on tight. Aminata wrenches, Robyn breaks free and ENZIGIRIS! Then BACKSTABBER!

Aminata crawls, Robyn soaks up the heat and she kicks rocks before she runs up. Aminata puts Renegade on the apron, shoulders in but gets a DOUBLE STOMP for it! Renegade talks trash, kicks Aminata to the floor, then brings her back up to put her in the ring. Renegade brings Aminata up, reels her in, but Aminata turns things into a cradle! TWO, and Aminata runs up to LARIAT! Renegade gets up, Aminata LARIATS again! Renegade swings, but into a spin, snapmare, and PENALTY KICK! Back of the onion bag with that one! Aminata fires the fans up, runs side to side, and she DROPKICKS Renegade through ropes!

Aminata reminds us, she’s the one and only! But then we see Athena & Billie watching this backstage! Athena whispers something to Billie, perhaps some opening or weakness in Aminata’s game. Billie seems to concur while Aminata scuffs Renegade. Cover, TWO! Renegade holds on but Aminata brings her up. Alabama Lift, but Renegade sunset flips and high stacks! TWO, and Renegade swings, but into a wrench and facelock, snap suplex! Emphasis on the snap as Renegade flounders to a corner. The fans fire up and Aminata runs corner to corner, but Renegade ELBOWS back! Renegade runs in, gets around, half nelson FACEBUSTER!

Renegade sits Aminata up, runs and SHOTGUNS her down! Cover, TWO! Aminata is tougher than that but Renegade snarls. The fans taunt Renegade, “ROBYN SUCKS!” Renegade drags Aminata up, fireman’s carries, and swing into the DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Aminata stays in this but clutches her neck and back. Robyn is frustrated, but she drags Aminata up. Robyn DOUBLE CHOPS! Aminata is annoyed, but Robyn pushes her around. Robyn winds up, Aminata BOOTS the lariat, then DOUBLE CHOPS in return! And CHOPS again! And waistlocks, to GERMAN SUPLEX!

Robyn ends up in the corner again, and Aminata runs up, SWEET HIP MUSIC! But Aminata goes side to side to add the BOOT WASH!! Aminata says it is done now! She drags Robyn back up to HEADBUTT, Alabama Lift, and AIR RAID CRASH! Cover, Aminata wins!

Winner: Queen Aminata, by pinfall

Athena & Billie are not happy with that result, they storm off. Aminata is not just ready, she is looking better than ever! Will not even The Fallen Goddess be able to deny The Queen her crown?

My Thoughts:

A very good episode of ROH, mostly because it was under an hour. Yes, I still skipped things but c’mon, it was obvious Nyla was going to win, as were Liona and The Dark Order. Great opener from Infantry VS Outrunners to settle their feud, and I love that the Outrunners went as far as to get a female member of the team to parody Adora, just as I was thinking they would. Great win for Infantry, they’ll definitely get back in the ROH Tag title conversation in time for the next ROH PPV. And very good Proving Ground match, good showing for The Qrown in their first ROH match. But even so, of course The Kingdom was winning.

As such, we got a really good promo from Menard & Parker. I really hope they get a strong showing here in ROH now that they’re teaming together again. And there’s still Maria wanting Griff & Karter going after the titles, there’s needs to be something big in the works for the ROH Tag Division. And really good promo from JD Drake. Granted, this is another case where Tony Khan does something in his booking/running of the company that kinda forces his talent into these worked shoot promos, what with Anthony Henry being released while he’s injured. But JD did a great job referencing that without having to say it, and I hope he gets going in the singles division.

Good promo from The Iron Savages to officially go Heel, but given the unified AEW & ROH Trios champs are also Heels, we aren’t seeing Bronson, Boulder & Jameson holding gold any time soon. Good match from Solo, but I was hoping he’d have to struggle a little longer before he could win and do what Johnny TV dared him to do. And then very good match from Aminata VS Robyn, especially with the detail of Athena & Billie watching. Aminata of course wins, and I would think she skips revenge on Billie to go right to the head of the snake. Aminata VS Athena will be a great match, and really should be the moment Athena passes on the torch as far as being ROH Women’s World Champion.