WWE returns to Saudi Arabia for a second PPV event! Who wins the World Cup to prove they’re the Best in the World? Who will be the NEW Universal Champion?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Kickoff Show: WWE United States Championship: Shinsuke Nakamura VS Rusev; Nakamura wins and retains the WWE United States Championship.
• WWE World Cup, SmackDown Bracket: Randy Orton VS Rey Mysterio; Mysterio wins and advances.
• WWE World Cup, SmackDown Bracket: Jeff Hardy VS The Miz; Miz wins and advances.
• WWE World Cup, Raw Bracket: Seth Rollins VS Bobby Lashley w/ Lio Rush; Rollins wins and advances.
• WWE World Cup, Raw Bracket: Kurt Angle VS Dolph Ziggler w/ Drew McIntyre; Ziggler wins and advances.
• SmackDown Tag Team Championships: The Bar w/ The Big Show VS The New Day; The Bar wins and retains the SmackDown Tag Team Championships.
• WWE World Cup, SmackDown Bracket: The Miz VS Rey Mysterio; The Miz wins and advances.
• WWE World Cup, Raw Bracket: Seth Rollins VS Dolph Ziggler w/ Drew McIntyre; Ziggler wins and advances.
• WWE Championship: AJ Styles VS Samoa Joe; Styles wins and retains the WWE Championship.
• Vacated WWE Universal Championship: Braun Strowman VS Brock Lesnar w/ Paul Heyman; Lesnar wins and becomes the new WWE Universal Champion.
• WWE World Cup Finals: The Miz VS Dolph Ziggler w/ Drew McIntyre; rescheduled as…
• WWE World Cup Finals: Shane McMahon VS Dolph Ziggler; McMahon wins and is crowned Best in the World.
• The Brothers of Destruction VS Degeneration-X; Degeneration-X wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

It’s the Crown Jewel Kickoff!

Jonathan Coachman, David Otunga and Booker T are live in WWE Studios to get us ready for this massive event!

Kickoff Show: WWE United States Championship: Shinsuke Nakamura VS Rusev!

The King of Strong Style has wanted challengers worthy of him, and perhaps the Bulgarian Brute is that challenger! Can Shinsuke return still Champion of the United States of Nakamerica? Or will Rusev Day have its Crown Jewel in another title reign?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we begin! Fans are already rowdy as the two men circle. Nakamura gives a testing kick but Rusev isn’t bothered. They tie up and Nakamura goes for legs. Rusev sprawls to block, and gets Nakamura in a corner. Rusev fires off heavy hands, but backs off at 4. He brings Nakamura to another corner for shoulders into the stomach. Rusev lets off at 2, to suplex Nakamura! Cover, ONE, but Rusev keeps his eyes on Nakamura. Rusev kicks Nakamura while he’s down, and fans chant “Rusev Day!” as he throws more hands. He brings Nakamura up but Nakamura fights out. Nakamura kicks out a leg and gives a backstabber! Nakamura gets up to stomp Rusev, but Rusev keeps getting up.

Fans duel as Nakamura kicks Rusev around. Rusev blocks a kick, but gets the enziguri. Nakamura comes back with the dynamic dropkick! Cover, TWO! Rusev gets to ropes but Nakamura is right on him with a facelock. Nakamura squeezes but Rusev works against the hold. Nakamura brings Rusev down for knees to the shoulders, then puts the facelock back on. Fans rally up and Rusev gets up. Rusev fights with body shots, but Nakamura holds on. Nakamura pulls back and Rusev starts to fade. Fans rally up again and Rusev gets a second wind. Rusev feeds off the “Rusev Day!” chants and he powers Nakamura off! Both men are down while Rusev catches his breath. Rusev stands but Nakamura follows.

Nakamura swnigs but Rusev counter punches. Rusev throws more hands but Nakamura knees low. Nakamura whips but Rusev reverses for big lariats! Rusev roars as Nakamura is in a corner. Rusev runs in for the shoulder, then the spinning heel kick! Nakamura is down, but Rusev fires up with the fans. Rusev stomps the mat as he takes aim. He runs in, but Nakamura dodges to give a strike fest. Nakamura runs but Rusev reels him in. Nakamura slips out of the supelx, swings a kick but gets Rusev’s roundhouse! Cover, TWO! Rusev grows closer, but he still needs more. Fans continue to chant as Rusev stomps away. Rusev brings Nakamura up to whip, but Nakamura holds ropes. Rusev catches the kick but gets the heel! Sliding knee! Cover, TWO! Rusev survives and Nakamura grows frustrated.

Fans continue to chant for “Rusev Day!” as Nakamura gets to a corner. Rusev gets to the opposite corner, but Nakamura runs in, only to be put on the top rope. Nakamura kicks Rusev away, then leaps, into a MACHKA KICK! Cover, TWO!! So close! Rusev roars again and prepares to CRUSH! He stomps, but Nakamura scrambles to the ropes. Rusev has to let Nakamura go, but then Nakamura hotshots Rusev. And roundhouse to the back! Nakamura climbs, aims, and hits a flying knee! Rusev is down, but under the ropes. Nakamura adjusts for the cover, TWO! Nakamura takes aim from a corner and fires up. Fans anticipate it as Rusev stands. Rusev sees it and drop toeholds, into ACCOLADE!!

Nakamura is caught, but he won’t give in. He uses his long legs to push towards ropes. He gets an arm free but Rusev drags him away! But then Nakamura gets up, but his head “accidentally” low blows Rusev. Nakamura grins, KINSHASA! Cover, Nakamura wins!

Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall; still WWE United States Champion

Whether it was cheating or taking advantage, the King of Strong Style gets away with his title. Will anyone ever take that gold away from the Rockstar? Or will everyone get a #Knee2Face?

There lies a treasure sought by the strong.

Who will be worthy of a title? Beast meets Monster, but who will #GetTheseHands? Who will be worthy of being Best in the World? Eight elite athletes compete in a one-night tournament. Who will be worthy of writing the ending? The Phenomenal and the Destroyer go one more time to finally settle their story. Who will be worthy of a legacy? Two historic teams clash for the first time, and possibly the last time. Who will by worthy of the Crown Jewel?

Introducing tonight’s host, WWE Hall of Famer, HULK HOGAN!

The Immortal Hulkamania is here to kick off the main show! Arabia is excited to see one of the biggest names in professional wrestling history as he picks up the mic. Hogan says “Let me tell you something, brother!” It feels great to be out in front of the WWE Universe and his Hulkamaniacs again. But even better than that, is that after flying half way across the world, he realized the power of Hulkamania was stronger than ever at Crown Jewel! He’s happy to see everyone and loves being back as tonight’s host. And that show starts now! So what you gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you, brother? The Immortal Hulkster has this crowd ready for action, so action’s what they’ll get!

WWE World Cup, SmackDown Bracket: Randy Orton VS Rey Mysterio!

The Viper and the King of Lucha Libre are familiar foes over their storied careers, and both have the championship resume to be in this match. Who will be the first SmackDown star to move forward in this inaugural tournament to crown the Best in the World?

The bell rings and we begin! Orton and Mysterio circle, and fans already chant “619!” Mysterio hears them out but Orton tunes them out. The two tie up, and Orton throws Mysterio down. He drags Mysterio up but Mysterio kicks and punches. Orton knees low, then whips. Mysterio slides under and kicks Orton again. Mysterio whips but Orton holds ropes, to then put Mysterio on the apron. Rey shoulders and kicks back, then springboards in, but gets a dropkick! Orton grins as he takes his time covering. TWO, but Orton stalks Mysterio around the ring. Orton hangs Mysterio up on the ropes, then dumps him off. He drags Mysterio around to stomp away on the stomach.

Orton taunts Mysterio and the fans before bringing Mysterio back up. He puts Mysterio on the top rope and clubs him on the back. Orton clibms up to join Mysterio, and goes after the mask! Mysterio fights back with back elbows, and Orton tumbles back. Mysterio turns around but gets a right hand. Orton climbs back up, but Mysterio resists the superplex. Mysterio fights back with body shots, and he headbutts Orton down again. Mysterio leaps, seated senton! He keeps moving, springboard crossbody! Mysterio keeps on Orton but Orton shoves him. Mysterio comes back with a kcik, springboard wheelbarrow bulldog! Cover, TWO! Orton is tougher than that, but Mysterio has control now. Mysterio gets the fans calling “619” as he kicks away.

Orton blocks a kick but gets an enziguri, and ends up on the ropes! Mysterio dials it up, 619 BLOCKED! Orton drags Mysterio out, draping DDT! Fans duel now between “619!” and “RKO!” as Orton again stalks Mysterio. Orton soaks up the heat, and hears the voices in his head. He waits for Mysterio to stand, but Mysterio counters with a sunset flip! Cover, MYSTERIO WINS!!

Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall; advances to the next round

RKO OUTTA NOWHERE! Orton lost the match, and lost his cool as he attacks Mysterio. And that RKO isn’t enough for him, the Apex Predator wants to make Rey pay. Fans boo and jeer as Orton stalks Mysterio. Orton drags Mysterio up, to throw him right out of the ring! He looks to leave, but Orton still wants more. Orton drags Mysterio over towards the World Cup itself, as he gives Mysterio a back suplex facebuster onto the announce desk! The Viper makes Mysterio easy pray for whoever faces him next, does Mysterio even have a chance of winning this tournament?

Backstage interview with The Miz.

The Hollywood A-Lister prepares for his match up next but he saw what happened to Mysterio. How is the Most Must-See WWE Superstar is feeling going against Jeff Hardy? He feels like there is no stopping him now from proving he’s Best in the World. Miz will walk through Hardy here, then he can just step over a broken Mysterio, so how is he feeling? “I feel AWESOME!”

WWE World Cup, SmackDown Bracket: Jeff Hardy VS The Miz!

The Charismatic Enigma wishes to paint his master piece tonight, but the Hollywood A-Lister wants his box office smash. Who will move on to take on the King of Lucha Libre in the next round?

The bell rings and we big as fans rally behind Hardy. Hardy and Miz tie up, Miz gest the headlock. Hardy powers out but Miz runs him over. Miz already says he’s the best in the world, but fans boo and jeer. Miz goes back to circling with Hardy, and fans cheer for “Brother Nero!” They tie up again and Hardy gets the headlock. Miz powers out but Hardy runs him over. THings speed up and Hardy blocks a hip toss to give a hip toss. Hardy htis the spin kick and has Miz in the corner. He stomps and whips corner to corner but Miz dodges. Miz wants the Finale but Hardy silps down to a victory roll. TWO, Jawbreaker rocks Miz. Hardy brings Miz back up and bumps him off buckles, “DELETE DELETE DELETE!”

Miz is dazed as Hardy runs back in for the swinging dropkick, but Miz boots it away. He takes his time steadying himself, and he brings Hardy up for a knee in the back. Miz wraps on a chinlock but fans cheer for Hardy. Hardy gets up and fights back, but Miz gets him in the A-List combination! Cover, TWO! Miz keeps his cool as he watches Hardy closely. Miz drags Hardy up for buckle bumps, then goes corner to corner. He hits the dropkick, copying Daniel Bryan as always. Miz hits another, then soaks up the heat as he runs back in. Hardy clobbers Miz with a clothesline! Both men are down and fans fire up. Hardy sits up first but Miz follows.

Hardy counter punches Miz, then whips. Miz reverses but Hardy hits the forearms. And then the atomic drop to leg splitting leg drop! Dropkick added, cover, TWO! Hardy keeps his cool as fans continue to cheer. Hardy kicks but Miz denies the Twist. Miz runs into an elbow, Whisper in the Wind hits! Cover, TWO! Hardy grits his teeth as he catches his breath. Miz gets to the apron while fans declare “This is Awesome!” Hardy drags Miz up but Miz hotshots Hardy. Miz gets in while Hardy goes to a corner. Miz runs in but blocks the boot to kick the leg. He drags Hardy out, trips him up, and wants the Figure Four. Hardy small packages, TWO! Miz narrowly avoids the loss, but Hardy throws him out of the ring. Hardy builds speed to hit a dropkick.

Miz is down and now Hardy walks the barriers, for a leaping lariat! Hardy brings Miz down, but gets him in the ring. Hardy hurries up top, taking off the shirt. Miz rolls out of the drop zone, and wants mercy? He yanks Hardy into buckles, roll up, but the ref sees him use the ropes! The ref stops the count, but Miz thinks he’s won. Hardy rolls Miz up, TWO! Twist of– FINALE!! Cover, Miz wins!

Winner: The Miz, by pinfall; advances to the next round

It wasn’t a walk like he thought, but The Miz did make it through the first round like he said. Miz has Mysterio up next, will that be as easy as Miz thinks? Or will Mysterio’s heart see him through?

WWE World Cup, Raw Bracket: Seth Rollins VS Bobby Lashley w/ Lio Rush!

The Architect holds both the Intercontinental and Raw Tag Team Championships, but he has to put his problems with the Lunatic aside if he wants to be the Best in the World. Meanwhile, the Heavyweight That’s Back to Dominate has his Hype Man of the Hour helping him climb up the rankings. Who will be the first Raw superstar through to the semifinals?

The bell rings and Rollins ties up with Lashley. Lashley shoves him down fast, then flexes. Rollins gets back up and avoids Lashley to give chops and haymakers. Lashley knees low then whips Rollins, but Rollins kicks him back. Rollins enziguris Lashley out, then runs, but into Lashley’s SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Lashley looms over Rollins while Lio hypes him up. Lashley clubs away and rakes the face into a cover. ONE, but Lashley gets Rollins in a seated cobra clutch. Fans rally as Rollins gets up. Rollins fights out of the hold, but runs into a knee. Lashley bumps Rollins off buckles, then whips him corner to corner. Lashley rams his shoulder into Rollins then hits a neckbreaker. Cover, TWO! Lashley wraps a chinlock on but fans still rally.

The cobra clutch returns but Rollins fights it, so Lashley gets a full nelson. Rollins endures as fans rally up. Rollins gets up but Lashley thrashes him around in the hold. He still pries free and throws hands, but then Lashley hits a complete shot! Lio cheers Lashley on but he’s the only one. Lashley drags Rollins up, for the Vertigo Suplex! Rollins is up there a long time, but he fights out! Rollins dodges and clotheslines Lashley out! He builds speed to DIVE! But Rollins keeps going, for another DIVE! Lashley goes down but Rollins hits barriers, too. They’re both down as a ring count begins. Rollins gets up first and puts Lashley in at 5.

Rollins climbs up but Lashley stops him. Lashley climbs up, but Rollins resists. Rollins fights back with body shots and headbutts, to sunset flip! Lashley holds on, but Rollins gets him away, for a bomb attempt. Lashley slips out and tackles Rollisn in the back. Gut wrench into Canadian rack, but Rollins slips out. Rollins leaps over Lashley to send him to a corner. School boy, CURB STOMP! Cover, Rollins wins!!

Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall; advances to the next round

The Kingslayer is also the victor as he focuses on what matters: winning! He moves on in the tournament, who will meet him in the semifinals?

Backstage interview with Kurt Angle!

The Olympic Gold Medalist returns to the ring to prove he’s still as good as he once was. Now he can prove he’s Best in the World. The butterflies are back in a good way. Many have doubted his return, but many doubted he could win with a “broken freakin’ neck.” Angle isn’t putting a punctuation on his career, but a whole new chapter. “Oh it’s true. It’s DAMN true!”

WWE World Cup, Raw Bracket: Kurt Angle VS Dolph Ziggler w/ Drew McIntyre!

The Hall of Famer is ready, but so is the Show-Off. Angle could return to former glory, Ziggler could shock the world, but will the Scottish Terminator standing by have a part to play?

The bell rings and the two stellar mat wrestlers approach. Angle sprawls to block Ziggler’s takedown and then throws him off. The two go again, and Angle goes for a leg. Ziggler gets a headlock then gets a leg, then a waistlock. Angle standing switches and throws Ziggler down. Angle shifts to a facelock but Ziggler slips out to a hammerlock. Ziggler gets around for the sleeper hold, but Angle gets up and powers out. ZIggler runs Angle over, but things speed up, and Angle throws Ziggler with a belly2belly! Angle watches Ziggler closely, and gets a German Suplex! Angle waits for Ziggler to stand, for another German! Ziggler is dazed, but holds ropes to deny a third. Angle lets go at 4, and Ziggler gets to the apron. McIntyre coaches Ziggler up but has to back off.

Angle goes outside, and wants to throw Ziggler off the apron! Ziggler holds on for dear life, and manages to pull them both back up. He elbows Angle away and Angle falls to the floor. Ziggler whips Angle at the steel steps! The ring count passes 5 as Ziggler brings Angle up into the ring. Fans are on Angle’s side but Ziggler stomps Angle. ZIggler grinds Angle against the ropes, but backs off at 3. He brings Angle out for a neckbreaker. Cover, TWO! Ziggler wraps Angle up in the sleeper and body scissors. Fans rally and Angle endures the hold. Angle fades slowly, but he gets that second wind. He gets out of the body scissors, then stands. Angle elbows out, but Ziggler gets around to jump back on! Ziggler is a backpack, and Angle fades a bit more.

Fans rally up again, and Angle gets his third wind, to back Ziggler into buckles! Angle throws Ziggler off, but Ziggler runs in, into a boot! Angle gets a third German suplex! He holds on, for a fourth! And then a fifth, completing that hat trick. Cover, TWO! Angle gets up and watches Ziggler. Ziggler stands up, but slips out of the Angle Slam to arm-drag and satellite DDT! Cover, TWO! Angle survives and Ziggler grows frustrated. Ziggler keeps his cool and grins, because he has Angle where he wants him. He kicks a leg, but misses the Famouser, there’s the Angle Slam! Cover, TWO!! McIntyre is relieved but Angle is shocked. Angle fires up and takes the straps off! He grabs a leg but Ziggler pushes him away. Ziggler runs in, Famouser hits! Cover, TWO!! Angle survives and now Ziggler is frustrated.

Fans know “This is Awesome!” as both men slowly stand up. Ziggler aism at Angle, leaps, but Angle bucks him off. Things speed up, sunset flip but Angle gets the leg! ANKLE LOCK! Ziggler endures, reaches, crawls, but Angle drags him back! Ziggler works to roll over, but Angle rolls him back! But Ziggler throws Angle off with a roll forward. He hobbles to a corner, but dodges Angle to throw him into a post. Then ZIGZAG! Cover, Ziggler wins!!

Winner: Dolph Ziggler, by pinfall; advances to the next round

Perhaps it was an upset, perhaps it was inevitable. Either way, the Show-Off gets the win. Angle looked good, but Ziggler was just a touch better. How will Ziggler fair against familiar foe in Seth Rollins?

SmackDown Tag Team Championships: The Bar w/ The Big Show VS The New Day!

Awwww~ Crown Jewel! The Giant changed sides again, and that helped the Swiss Cyborg & Celtic Gladiator hold on to the Blue Brand’s belts. But now, ya bois are ready for all the tricks in the book as they go for a sixth reign! Will Woods, Kingston & Big E grab the treasure? Or will Cesaro & Sheamus not just set the bar but continue to BE The Bar?

The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we go with the standard formation of Kofi & Big E. Big E starts against Sheamus with the bell, and Sheamus gets a headlock. Big E puts Sheamus in a corner but they break. They go again, and now Big E gets a headlock. Sheamus powers out but Big E runs him over! The hips swivel and Big E dares Sheamus to come for him. Sheamus kicks low and gets a headlock. Big E powers out and things speed up. Sheamus blocks a hip toss but so does Big E, to cltohesline! Cover, TWO! E tags Kofi and Kofi climbs up. Kofi leaps for double stomps on Sheamus’ arm. Kofi brings Sheamus up but Sheamus powers him back. Tag to Cesaro and Cesaro stomps Kofi.

Cesaro whips Kofi corner to corner, then runs in, for a big monkey flip! But Kofi lands on his feet! KOfi dances while Woods plays the trombone. Cesaro runs in, but into a dropkick! Cover, TWO! Kofi powers out of a headlock and things speed up again. Cesaro catches Kofi in a waistlock but Kofi standing switches. Cesaro elbows out but Kofi tilt-o-whirl headscissors! Kofi leaps, jumps and crossbodies! Cover, TWO! Cesaro rocks Kofi with a big European Uppercut! Tag to Sheamus while Big Show talks trash. Sheamus stands Kofi up for body shots and stomps. Cesaro gets a cheap shot in, but the ref keeps Big E back. Big Show chokes Kofi, too, then Cesaro tags in. The Bar mug Kofi, then Cesaro wrenches Kofi’s neck.

Fans rally up for New Day and Kofi fights out. Cesaro tags Sheamus, and Sheamus kicks Kofi. The Bar double whip Kofi for the Bar Lariat! Cover, TWO! Sheamus drags Kofi around for a chinlock, then clubs away on Kofi’s chest. He shifts to a high keylock but Kofi endures. Kofi feeds off the fan energy, and fights out to CHOP Sheamus. Kofi CHOPS, and CHOPS, and CHOPS! He leaps but Sheamus keeps him away, to kick him back down. Tag to Cesaro, and Cesaro covers, TWO! Cesaro pulls Kofi back against the ropes, but stops at 3. Big Show trash talks Kofi right in the face, before Cesaro gut wrench suplexes Kofi! Cover, TWO! Cesaro keeps right on Kofi with the cobra clutch. Fans rally again and Kofi endures. Cesaro thrashes Kofi around, but Kofi fights his way back up.

Kofi lifts Cesaro as he makes his way to his corner. Cesaro pushes him back but Kofi pushes forward. The two struggle for control, but Cesaro knees low. He swings on Big E, but gets a back drop! Fans rally as both men crawl. Cesaro tags Sheamus, and Sheamus hits Big E down. Kofi ducks under but no one to tag. Sheamus carriers Kofi all the way back! Cesaro tags in and uses a EuroUpper, then back drop into suplex! Cover, TWO! Big Show is frustrated for The Bar, and Cesaro argues the count. The ref says it’s two, so The Bar has to accept that. Cesaro stalks Kofi as Woods and Show coach them up. The Bar soak up the heat, but Kofi fights back! Cesaro tags Sheamus, back suplex but Kofi slips out. Kofi sends Sheamus to the corner, and Big E returns!

Kofi crawls, but Sheamus tags Cesaro first. Hot tag to Big E! Belly2belly for Cesaro! And another, and then another! Big E swivels the hips, runs, and hits a Big Splash, but onto knees! Cesaro tags Sheamus in, but Big E gives him a uranag-E! Cover, TWO! Sheamus crawls to the apron, but Big E builds speed… But runs into a knee! Sheamus runs in for the step-up knee! Sheamus throws punches in the corner, but Kofi distracts him. Kofi tags in as Big E hauls Sheamus out. Dumdum stomps powerbomb! Cover, but Cesaro breaks it! Cesaro gets a rolling sabat kick! Kofi tags in Big E, and E helps Kofi FLY! DOwn goes Cesaro, and down come the straps.

Big Show distracts, but Sheamus still misses the Brogue! Roll up, TWO! Big Show distracts as Sheamus slips out of the Big Ending. Sheamus shoves Big E that way, the ref ducks and doesn’t see Big Show’s KO PUNCH!! Then BROGUE! Cover, The Bar wins!

Winners: The Bar, Sheamus pinning; still SmackDown Tag Team Champions

The numbers were even but the size advantage was on The Bar’s side. Show helps his new friends hold onto the gold, will he be a big part of their own reign as five-time tag champions?

Backstage interview with The Miz.

He made it to the semifinals as promised and now faces Rey Mysterio. “I told you so.” Miz got a kick to the throat and surely the fans are happy, but Miz still won. Miz will pick the bones of Mysterio, and what better Hollywood ending of the “plucky underdog” trying only to be decimated by a real hero. Tonight isn’t about happy endings, but about Miz proving he is the Best in the World!

Backstage interview with Rey Mysterio.

Orton beat Mysterio down for winning, but being the best isn’t about making excuses. You could be at far than less than 100%, but no one can put a number on your pride. Miz has all sorts of plans, but let him use them. Mysterio has been underestimated by bigger and better, and it’ll make this win all the better.

WWE World Cup, SmackDown Bracket: The Miz VS Rey Mysterio!

The A-Lister thinks he’s AWESOME enough to end the King of Lucha Libre’s return already. But Mysterio has proved himself to be far tougher than this, can he again defy the odds to be one of the World Cup finalists?

The bell rings and Miz runs in. Mysterio dodges and gives a kick before backing away. The two approach and Miz gets a waistlock. Mysterio fights out and standing switches. Things speed up, Miz sunset flips, Mysterio rolls through but Miz ducks to roll him up. TWO, Mysterio blocks a boot and rolls Miz up. Miz rolls through, sunset flip, Mysterio rolls through to kick Miz! Cover, ONE! Mysterio brings Miz up but Miz knees low. Miz throws Mysterio out but Mysterio rolls right onto his feet. Mysterio dodges Miz, then dropkicks him away. Mysterio builds speed, to low-pe splash! It’s a bit rough on Mysterio, too, given what Orton did to his ribs. Mysterio catches his breath and walks it off, but the ring count passes 5. He comes back to Miz and puts him in.

Miz gets to a corner and Mysterio is on him with forearms and corner punches. Mysterio gets all ten, then whips Miz corner to corner. Miz reverses but runs into a boot. Mysterio runs out, roll but into a reverse bomb from Miz! Miz smirks as he stalks Mysterio. He stomps and grinds his boot on Mysterio. Mysterio gets away, but Miz is on him with shoulders to the stomach. Miz rolls Mysterio out to then hit the low boot. Cover, TWO! Miz keeps on Mysterio with a Bow ‘n’ Arrow stretch! He bends Mysterio across the legs, stretching out those bad ribs. Fans rally up and Mysterio pops out to a cover. TWO! Mysterio throws punches and kicks, then whips. Miz reverses to knee Mysterio low! Miz circles Mysterio like a shark with blood in the water. He drags Mysterio into body scissors.

Mysterio endures the squeeze while fans rally up. Mysterio works against the hold but Miz goes after the mask! The referee reprimands him, but then Mysterio bites Miz’s hand! Mysterio gets free and runs, but is slid out to the floor! Miz lets Mysterio stay out there a moment, but then goes out to fetch him. He rams Mysterio’s ribs into the apron edge, then into barriers. Miz puts Mysterio back in, covers, TWO! Miz grows frustrated, but he keeps on Mysterio with an abdominal stretch. Mysterio endures the pain in his ribs as Miz grinds in an elbow. Miz jams his elbow in, then clamps his fingers into Mysterio’s side. Mysterio refuses to quit, and fans rally up for him. Mysterio fights back as he elbows Miz’s leg. Miz pumphandles Mysterio up, but Mysterio makes it a DDT! Both men are down and fans rally up again.

A ten count begins, but Mysterio crawls to a corner. Mysterio drags himself up with the ropes to get up at 6. Miz follows slowly, and throws a haymaker. Mysterio gives one back, but Miz kicks. Mysterio kicks, Miz punches. They go back and forth like this, and Mysterio gets an edge. Miz shoves, Mysterio dodges, springboard crossbody! Cover, TWO!! That was close, but Mysterio keeps on Miz. Mysterio goes acrobatic for a headscissors, and Miz ends up in a corner. Mysterio throws forearms and whips, but Miz reverses. Rey goes up and over, headscissors send Miz into buckles. Then Mysterio baits Miz in for a shoulder, an dslingshot headscissor. Miz is in place, Mysterio dials it up, but Miz is ready. He sends Rey into buckles! Then FINALE! Cover, TWO!! Mysterio survives and Miz is shocked.

Miz thinks on what to do now, but fans know “This is Awesome!” Miz copies the Yes Kicks, but fans say “NO! NO!” Mysterio ducks the buzzsaw, sunset flip, TWO!! Miz runs in but is dropkick’d to ropes! 6 1 9!! Mysterio hurries to a corner as fast as he can, and hits a frog splash! But on knees! Miz covers, Miz wins!

Winner: The Miz, by pinfall; advances to the World Cup Finals

The A-Lister pulls out a victory at the last moment! Mysterio wasn’t 100%, but he won’t make excuses. Will Miz have any excuses going against the Raw Bracket finalist? Or will he truly prove he’s the Best?

Backstage interview with Seth Rollins.

The Architect overcame big Bobby Lashley, but now shifts to Dolph Ziggler. The winner isn’t the best because it’s easy. Rollins doesn’t want this to be easy, and everyone is facing some sort of adversity. But Rollins does his best when the pressure’s on.

WWE World Cup, Raw Bracket: Seth Rollins VS Dolph Ziggler!

The Kingslayer and the Show-Off know each other well from their many matches for the Intercontinental Championship. However, a bigger prize is on the line tonight, who meets The Miz in the finals?

The bell rings and the two circle. Rollins knows to keep an eye on McIntyre, too. They tie up, and Rollins gets a leg. Ziggler sprawls and gets away, and the two circle again. Ziggler goes for a leg but Rollins sprawls to get a leg. They go around and fight for control, Ziggler gets away again. He and Rollins circle again, and Ziggler kicks low. Ziggler punches Rollins down then elbows the neck. He throws Rollins with a headlock takeover. Rollins keeps his shoulders up even as Ziggler pulls on his head. Ziggler traps an arm and pulls harder. Rollins endures as fans rally, and he gets back up. Rollins powers out and things speed up, and Ziggler leaps, only to be caught for a scoop slam! Ziggler gets to ropes, Rollins clotheslines him out.

Rollins goes out to fetch Ziggler and chops him. He brings Ziggler around the corner to throw him into buckles. Rollins CHOPS Ziggler, then throws him into the ring. McIntyre blocks Rollins’ path, but he can’t do anything or else Ziggler gets disqualified. Rollins dares him to, but then he runs into the satellite DDT! Cover, TWO! Ziggler goes after Rollins but the ref keeps him back. Ziggler still stomps Rollins as fans rally up. He brings Rollins up to grind his face on the ropes! Rollins punches back, but Ziggler kicks a leg out. Ziggler gives Rollins a neckbreaker! Cover, TWO! Ziggler keeps on Rollins with a chinlock, almost making it a standing bully choke. Fans rally and Rollins fights up. Ziggler wrangles him back down, and Rollins endures the squeeze. Rollins endures as fans now duel.

Ziggler keeps his weight on Rollins, but Rollins still gets up to throw him off. Rollins runs but misses the corner splash. Ziggler covers, TWO! Rollins supports himself on the ropes but Ziggler trash talks him. Ziggler pulls Rollins against the ropes but lets go at 3. Fans rally and duel, Ziggler throws hands. Rollins counter punches, and backs Ziggler down. He chops Ziggler to a corner, then whips corner to corner. Ziggler reverses to hit a leaping back elbow. Cover, TWO, but Ziggler keeps his cool. Ziggler grins as he stalks Rollins, egging him on. Ziggler toys with Rollins, getting cocky. Rollins gets a leg, trips Ziggler, but Ziggler pushes him away. Rollins his buckles, then Ziggler hits a neckbreaker! Cover, TWO! Ziggler’s frustration grows, but he wraps Rollins in a sleeper hold and body scissors.

Ziggler traps an arm as he wrenches Rollins’ neck. Fans rally again, and Rollins pries his way out. They both stand and Ziggler wants another neckbreaker, but Rollins reverss to a backslide! TWO, Ziggler leaps but ROllins blocks to scoop. Ziggler rolls out, rolls up, TWO! Rollins has Ziggler, TWO! Fireman’s carry but sunset filp, Rollins sits on it! TWO, Ziggler sunset, TWO! Rollisn stakc, TWO, Ziggler sunset, TWO, deadlift but sunset flip!! TWO!! Ziggler’s kick blocked, Revolution Knee hits!! Cover, TWO!! That was so close but it was still two. Fans know “This is Awesome!” like all the rest. Rollins grits his teeth as he stands up, and stomps for “Burn It Down!”

McIntyre distracts but gets a punch. Rollins blocks Ziggler to catapult him out! Rollins builds speed to DIVE on them both! He puts Ziggler in, then climbs up. Springboard but Ziggler dodges, FAMOUSER! Cover, TWO!! Another close call but it’s not over yet! Ziggler gets up and decides to go up top. He usually doesn’t, but Rollins leaps up to SUPERPLEX! Roll through, but Ziggler slips out, ZIGZAG!! Cover, TWO!? How?! It doesn’t matter, because “This is Awesome!” Both men slowly stand, and Ziggler runs in. Rollins bucks him off, SUPERKICK! DIVE on McIntyre just in case! Rollins climbs up fast but Ziggler’s there now! But Rollins shoves him away, Ziggler exaggerates a bad ankle so that McIntyre can shove Rollins down! SUPERKICK! Cover, Ziggler wins!

Winner: Dolph Ziggler, by pinfall; advances to the World Cup Finals

Give the assist to the Scottish Terminator as the Show-Off steals this win! Ziggler meets The Miz, the Best in the World comes from Cleveland no matter what!

On-stage interview with Dolph Ziggler.

The decision is final, but this doesn’t seem fair to Rollins. Does Ziggler feel this win was an upset? Oh, really? Ziggler has been saying this for 13 years, that no one in the WWE Universe has ever given a damn about Ziggler! But the next time Ziggler’s in that ring, he’ll be holding the trophy, because he IS the Best in the World. Ziggler and Miz meet later on, who will hold that trophy?

WWE Championship: AJ Styles VS Samoa Joe!

The Phenomenal One was going to face Daniel Bryan here, but both men couldn’t wait to settle things between each other. That title match happened on SmackDown, and though Styles retained, the Destroyer staked his claim. Joe wants that title by any means necessary, but this isn’t a reward for his actions. Styles wants to again punish Joe for getting in his face. Will this time could be the final time, whose happy ending will it be?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we begin! Joe and Styles go right at each other, but Styles backs Joe down with haymakers. Joe turns things around but gets a kick to the bad leg. They circle, and Styles keeps on that bad leg. They approach, Joe blocks a kick but gets a chop block. Styles stomps Joe to a corner, then kicks away on the legs. He rams his shoulder into Joe’s stomach, then backs off. Joe CHOPS Styles back. Styles rocks Joe with a haymaker and Joe rolls out of the ring. Styles goes out and around the corner, but Joe dodges the knee. Joe walks into a mule kick but ducks the moonsault to scoop Styles. Styles slips out and throws Joe to a post. Styles refreshes the ring count, but then Joe flapjacks him on the barriers!

Joe walks off the leg pain and refreshes the count himself now. He brings Styles over to bump him off the apron. Styles staggers while fans cheer him on. Joe gets in the ring, waits for Styles to return, only to knock him back down. The ref reprimands Joe, but he builds speed to DIVE! He blasts Styles into the announce desk! Fans chant “Joe! Joe!” as he looms over Styles. Joe puts Styles in the ring, covers, TWO! He keeps on Styles with a chinlock, trapping an arm. Styles endures and gets up to power Joe to a corner. Styles throws forearms and bumps Joe off buckles. He whips Joe corner to corner but Joe reverses. Joe hits the back elbow, and the Pele! Cover, Ropebreak! Styles survives, but Joe keeps his cool.

Joe drags Styles around to headbutt him down, then brings him up for another. Fans continue to cheer Styles on, but Joe is on him. Styles elbows Joe but Joe CHOPS Styles off his feet! Joe puts on a neck wrench and Styles endures. Styles gets to his feet and fights out. Joe hits Styles back and now it’s a brawl. They go back and forth, Joe CHOPS Styles, then headbutts him. Joe swings away on Styles, who can barely cover up. Styles ducks to enziguri Joe down! Both men are down as fans continue to make noise. Styles sits up but Joe follows. Styles chops Joe, then chops again. Joe chops back, and the brawl is back on!

Styles fires off the Phenomenal Blitz, and a forearm in the corner. He brings Joe out, wants the Clash, but Joe shoves him away. Joe runs into an elbow, Styles hops up and springboards for the moonsault DDT! Cover, TWO! Fans rally for Styles as Joe rolls out. Styles aims and slingshots, the forearm connects! Styles puts Joe in the ring, then takes aim from the apron. Joe stands, Styles jumps in but Joe gets clear. Styles runs into the powerslam! Cover, TWO! Joe grows frustrated, but he drags Styles up. Styles slips out of the suplex to kick the leg. Styles runs, but into a BIG clothesline! Cover, TWO! Both men are down again and fans are thunderous.

Styles sits up first again, but Joe follows. Joe goes to Styles in the corner, but Styles rolls him! Calf Crusher! Joe’s leg hurts but Joe reaches to get the ropebreak. Styles lets him go, but he’s not done. He kicks the leg more, but ducks the enziguri. Roll up, TWO, Coquina Clutch!! Joe has Styles trapped, but Styles goes after the bad leg! Styles uses the toehold against Joe, Joe has to get the ropes. Styles lets Joe go again, but he goes after the leg more .Joe hits Styles back, but has to fight off the Calf Crusher. He elbows Styles’ neck, then knees him in the face. PELE! Joe goes down but both men work to stand back up. Styles runs in, but Joe puts him on the apron. Styles hits Joe back, then springboards, Phenomenal Forearm! Cover, Styles wins!

Winner: AJ Styles, by pinfall; still WWE Champion

The Phenomenal One wins two title matches in one week, and his career continues towards its one year anniversary! Will Styles make it one of the best title reigns in WWE history?

Acting Raw General Manager, Baron Corbin, heads to the ring.

The Constable has the Universal Championship in hand. He is here to personally present that belt to whoever wins this next match, as the belt is currently vacant. Roman Reigns gave up the belt because he has a real fight on his hands with the returning leukemia. With the Big Dog having to leave The Yard, there will be a guaranteed NEW champion! But will it be The Beast of Suplex City? Or the Monster Among Men?

Vacated WWE Universal Championship: Braun Strowman VS Brock Lesnar w/ Paul Heyman!

The introductions are made, the belt is raised by Corbin, and we begin as Corbin smashes Strowman! He wants the bell to ring, so it does! Lesnar F5’s Strowman!! Cover, TWO!! Strowman won’t be screwed over so easily! Lesnar lifts Strowman again, for a second F5! Cover, TWO!? Heyman and Lesnar cannot believe this! Strowman sputters but he survives two F5’s in a row. Lesnar lifts him again, for an unprecedented THIRD F5! Cover, TWO!?! We knew Strowman was more than human, but this is something else! Fans want “One More Time!” so Lesnar will go for it. He reels Strowman in for a fourth fireman’s carry, to dump him out of the ring!!

Strowman is down, and a count out will give Lesnar the title anyway. Fans lose their minds over the manhandling, and the count passes 5. But Strowman gets up?! And in at 9! Lesnar gets mad now, and the gloves literally come off. Heyman shouts for Lesnar to end this, and Lesnar walks over to the dazed Strowman. A fifth fireman’s carry but Strowman slips out. Strowman boots, but turns into a FIFTH F5!! Cover, Lesnar wins!

Winner: Brock Lesnar, by pinfall; NEW WWE Universal Champion

The Beast wins, but give a huge assist to Corbin clobbering Strowman. Strowman still survived far more than anyone ever expected, but five F5’s ended it. Lesnar holds up the belt, how long will he hold onto the belt this time?

SmackDown Commissioner, Shane McMahon, heads to the ring.

Shane O’Mac wants to be present for the World Cup Finals, because he will make good on that ultimatum to his roster. If The Miz fails, he’ll be booted out of the Blue Brand.

WWE World Cup Finals: The Miz VS Dolph Ziggler w/ Drew McIntyre!

The pressure is on for the A-Lister, will he be able to avoid defeat? Or will the Show-Off steal the show when he finally proves he’s the Best in the World?

The introductions are made, but the referee tells McIntyre he can’t be ringside. This is more important than just the other matches, the referee insists on it being fair. McIntyre reluctantly goes, but he knows Ziggler beat Rollins and Angle, so he can beat “This punk.” Miz clobbers Ziggler and stomps away! The ref pulls Miz back, but for only a moment. Miz throws hands, but the ref pulls him away. Miz still throws Ziggler out of the ring, then cools off. Corbin protests, but then Miz goes out. Miz flounders, having taken a bad step off the apron. Ziggler hits Miz back, and now he gives Miz back what he gave. Ziggler whips but Miz reverses to send him into the steps. Both men are down, and the referee checks on them.

Miz refuses to let this end before it even begins. He gets Ziggler in the ring, but that leg really bothers him. Shane checks on his guy, but Miz says he’s fine. Miz wills himself up, but it’s hard to balance on that bad leg. The referee calls for help, and advises that Miz can’t compete. Shane and Miz talk, Miz insists he’ll do it. He’s never been injured and he’s not gonna let this stop him now. Miz shouts at the refs to back away while the head referee talks to the ring announcer. The decision is made, this match is going to be called off, but Shane interrupts! Shane will not let his guy lose without actually competing. It’s the FINALS, they cannot just call it.

Everyone tells Shane Miz can’t continue, but Shane pulls rank. Shane tells everyone that he’ll compete for SmackDown?! Can he do that? Shane doesn’t care if he can, he’s going do that! Miz doesn’t want it and neither does Corbin, but the announcement is made!

WWE World Cup Finals: Shane McMahon VS Dolph Ziggler!

This is far from what anyone expected, and barely what Corbin and Ziggler wanted, but it’s happening!

Shane throws off the jacket and watch while referees help The Miz to the back. Ziggler and Corbin protest as hard as they can but they can’t stop it. The bell rings, Shane fires off on Ziggler! Ziggler gets to a corner but Shane keeps on him. The ref backs Shane O’Mac off but Shane keeps going. Shane whips and hits a big back elbow. Corbin trips Shane! The referee argues with Corbin, and EJECTS him! Everyone protests, but then Ziggler ZIGZAGS! Cover, TWO!! Shane survives and Ziggler can’t believe it.

Ziggler fires off hands and rakes Shane’s eyes. Ziggler throws more elbows and stomps, and even headbutts. Shane hits Ziggler back with body shots, but Ziggler throws haymakers. Fans enjoy it either way as Shane hits Ziggler more. Shane fires up, and hits a DDT! He drags Ziggler up, to catapult him into buckles! Ziggler is down, so Shane goes to a corner. Shane climbs up and aims, for COAST2COAST!! It hits! Cover, Shane wins!!

Winner: Shane McMahon, by pinfall; wins the World Cup Tournament

Wait, Shane is the Best in the World?! Well, at least no SmackDown star is being exiled… But, will this really stand once things return to normal?

The Brothers of Destruction VS Degeneration-X!

The #LastTimeEver of the Undertaker and Triple H at Super Show-Down only applied to singles competition. There is no more respect between these two sides, and there will be no mercy. Will this #FirstTimeEver be another #LastTimeEver? Will the Brothers of Destruction make DX #RestInPeace? Or will DX tell them to #SuckIt?!

Fans are thunderous before the match even begins. HHH stares down with Taker, but the teams eventually sort out. The referee reminds them only one at a time, so Kane starts for the Brothers. Fans already know “This is Awesome!” as HHH stays for DX. The bell rings, and HHH slowly circles with the Big Red Machine. HHH taunts Taker but Taker has to stay back. Kane and HHH approach and the Game talks trash. He sucker punches Kane, but it barely makes him budge. Kane grabs HHH and puts him in a corner. HHH gets out of the way, but gets an uppercut before he could crotch chop! Kane throws more hands, then whips HHH. He hits a big corner clothesline and lets HHH fall.

Kane brings HHH around to yank the arm. Kane reaches but HHH denies the tag to Taker. HHH brings Kane around, tag to HBK! Fans fire up again as HBK hits the ax handles. HBK wrenches Kane but Kane grabs him by the throat! Kane puts HBK in a corner but HBK gets out and chops back. Kane whips HBK but HBK gets him with a neckbreaker! HBK celebrates his first big move, but Kane sits up! HHH shouts to HBK, but Kane gets him. HBK gets free to chop and chop. He whips but Kane reverses, HBK sunset flips. Kane stays standing, and yanks HBK up. Kane scoops but HBK slips out. HBK shows the kick but Kane backs off. HBK teases that he was close. But now, Taker tags in!

Fans are even more thunderous than before as Taker and HBK meet in the ring again. And HBK stands his ground. Taker slashes the throat, so HBK says “SUCK IT!” HBK chops and chops and chops Taker, then runs, but into a boot! Taker looms over HBK, and drags him up. He wrenches the arm, and brings HBK around for shoulder collisions. Taker wrenches the arm again, and goes up to the top rope! Taker wants to go Old School but HHH interferes! Kane rocks HHH in return, and now it’s a brawl. Taker whips HBK corner to corner, and HBK ends up in the Tree of Woe! Kane still brawls with HHH, but then whips HHH into HBK! HHH tumbles out, Taker gets HBK with a two handed toss! Then Taker throws HBK out to join HHH.

The Brothers of Destruction wait for DX to return while fans continue to chant. DX gathers themselves, and rush the ring! But they run into double choke grips! DX fights out with punches and chops. HHH sends Kane out, HBK sends Taker out. But they land on their feet! And they drag DX out to throw into the barriers! Taker rocks HBK with right hands while fans duel. He puts HBK in the ring and brings him up. Taker wrenches the arm, climbs the corner, and goes Old School! HBK writhes from the shoulder pain. Fans still know “This is Awesome!” as Taker brings HBK up in another corner. Taker chokes HBK with one hand, but lets up at 4. Taker glares at the ref, but runs back in to get only buckles! HBK tags to HHH, and he goes after Taker with chops.

HHH whips but Taker reverses, but HHH kicks him. Taker doesn’t budge, he knocks HHH back down. Taker wrenches HHH’s arm and brings him over. Tag to Kane and the Brothers mug HHH in their corner. Kane drives an elbow into HHH, then brings him out for a scoop slam. Kane runs but misses the elbow drop! Both men are down but they get up. Kane throws a punch, HHH chops. Kane punches, HHH chops, and repeat. They brawl back and forth, HHH gets an edge. HHH runs, avoids a scoop, and hits a DDT! Both men are down, and HHH heads for his corner. Hot tag to HBK! HBK chops away on Kane, but Kane reverses the whip. They collide, but HBK kips up!

Kane sits up, too, but HBK gets the atomic drop and more chops. Another atomic drop, a shot for Taker, but HBK can’t lift Kane. Kane lifts HBK but HBK slips out. HHH helps out, DX double suplex Kane! HHH cues HBK as he climbs, HBK hits the elbow! And then HBK tunes up the band! Fans know what this means. Kane slowly stands, and blocks Sweet Chin Music to Choke Slam HBK! Both men are down, but Kane tags in Taker. HBK gets up but Taker is on him with big hands and elbows. Taker throws more hands in the corner, and a headbutt. He doesn’t let up, and whips HBK corner to corner. Snake Eyes! And the boot! Then a leg drop! Cover, TWO! HBK survives but Taker isn’t done with him.

Taker calls for his choke slam, but has to hit HHH first. HBK SWEET CHIN MUSIC!! Taker falls but HBK can’t cover. Everyone is down but the fans are still fired up. Taker flops back into the ring, and sits up! He goes to HBK, drags him up and throws him out. He follows, and clears off not one but both announce desks! Fans already anticipate something crazy as Taker puts HBK on one. Taker climbs up to bring HBK up, and scoops him. HHH saves HBK, but Kane comes over. HHH kicks Kane low and throws him to steel steps. Taker and HHH run with each other into barriers. HHH runs at Kane, but is caught, Choke Slam through a table!! Fans lose their minds over that monitor busting impact!

Taker returns and fetches HBK. He puts HBK on the apron, and keeps him there with a boot. Taker walks up the steps to return to the apron. Taker takes aim, and hits the guillotine leg drop! HBK slumps to the floor and Taker glares at HHH. Fans have not slowed in dueling chants. Taker puts HBK in the ring, covers, TWO!? HBK survives, but Taker tries again. TWO, so Taker grinds his fist into HBK’s face. Taker drags HBK around, tag to Kane. The Brothers stomp HBK, and Kane whips HBK to a corner. Kane rams his shoulder in, then stomps a mudhole into HBK. HBK is all alone with HHH still down in the rubble. Kane drags HBK up to give him a knee to the back. Kane drops knees, covers, TWO! Tag to Taker, and the Brothers mug HBK.

Taker punches HBK down, then brings him up for a suplex. Cover, TWO! Taker grinds his forearm into HBK but lets up at 3. Fans rally up but Taker throws hands on HBK. Taker drives in knees, too, then puts HBK in a chinlock. HBK endures as Taker tags in Kane. Kane kicks HBK in the chest, then punches him back down. Kane clubs HBK and covers, TWO. He puts HBK in the corner but HBK fights back! HBK knocks Taker away but walks into a sidewalk slam! Cover, TWO! HBK still has life, but Kane climbs the corner. HBK stops him, and Kane falls to the mat. Everyone is down, but HHH finally shows signs of life. HBK wills his way back up, but Taker drags him out! Taker scoops, but HBK sends him into a post.

HBK wills himself back up but Kane is there. Kane powers HBK to the corner, then hoists him up top. Kane climbs up to join HBK, but HBK fights back. HBK clubs away, knocking Kane’s mask off! HBK adjusts, but not to get in the ring. He aims at both Brothers, for a SUPER MOONSAULT!! HBK wipes them both out as he works to turn back time! Fans lose their minds over that one, but they know “You Still Got It!” HHH rises onto the apron, and now HBK wills himself back to the DX corner. HBK crawls but Kane gets up and pursues. Hot tag to HHH! HHH rallies on Kane with chops, then whips. Kane reverses but HHH gives him the knee to face. HHH keeps moving and hits his jumping knee. Taker comes in but gets the Spinebuster!

HHH fires up, Taker sits up, but HHH kicks. Taker back drops the Pedigree away, but HHH blocks the Choke Slam. Taker scoops but HHH slips out. HHH kicks, underhook, PEDIGREE! But Kane is there, so HHH takes time throwing him out. HHH turns back to Taker, but gets reeled into Hell’s Gate!! Taker chokes HHH with the brutal hold, but HBK returns. Kane intercepts, but HBK slips out, Sweet Chin Music! Kane falls on Taker and frees HHH! All four men are down and fans are again thunderous. Both Brothers sit up! Taker and Kane slowly stand, and they wait for DX. The Brothers scoop HHH & HBK, but HBK goes after Kane’s eyes. HHH kicks Taker’s leg, Sweet Chin Music again! Then one for Kane! Pedigree!! Cover, DX wins!!

Winners: Degeneration-X, HHH pinning

The first time these two teams meet, and DX wins! All four men gave it their all, but in the end, The Game & the Heartbreak Kid survived death together. DX celebrates their win, as well as HBK’s first match since retiring eight years ago. Will this just be the first of many victories for Shawn Michaels now that he’s back?

My Thoughts:

Skipping arguments of whether WWE should’ve done this event, the event itself was pretty good given that it focused on the action. Nakamura VS Rusev was pretty great for a last minute addition, and I almost thought Rusev was going to win the belt. However, Nakamura still wins because he found a new way to get that low blow. Hopefully something changes, as both Rusev and Nakamura are great talents that deserve a bit more from booking. Maybe after Survivor Series and on the way to TLC, there will be something major announced for the United States Championship. But assuming nothing changes, Nakamura will likely face the Intercontinental Champion at Survivor Series. Whether it’s Rollins or Ambrose is to be determined.

I shouldn’t have been surprised that The Bar wins, and with Big Show’s help. The New Day has had those tag title belts so often and for so long, it’s fine that another team has them. The Bar will move on to face the Raw Tag Team Championships, but obviously something in the Rollins-Ambrose story has to figure that out. I’m thinking that if Face VS Heel dynamic is thrown aside for Survivor Series, we can get The Authors of Pain VS The Bar for some really heavy hitting action. And maybe a funny moment of Drake Maverick distracting Big Show so that AoP can win. As for contenders, I’m not sure who there is for The Bar to defend their titles against other than The Usos, or SAnitY if SmackDown would figure out how to use them.

What was surprising today was that Ambrose didn’t show up to interfere with any of Rollins’ World Cup matches. But with Renee Young on commentary, perhaps Ambrose was here for her sake. I was surprised to see Rollins beat Lashley, but then lose to Ziggler. For that matter, it was really surprising to see Ziggler beat Angle, but the ending makes sense. Miz makes his way through a healthy Hardy and a battered Mysterio to be the SmackDown Finalist. Miz deserves an award for selling his jammed knee, but I did not expect Shane McMahon to take over. In kayfabe, it makes sense in some way, because Shane is his father’s son, and a McMahon will always go for the spotlight. I bet this leads to something for Survivor Series to actually give the traditional 5v5 stakes.

I was surprised neither WWE World or Universal Championships were the main event, but it made sense after it was all done. Styles retains and that’s great, but now I’m not sure who challenges him since Joe was beaten again. Maybe Bryan will get another shot since the controversy of Crown Jewel is past us. In kayfabe, I’m pissed Corbin screwed Strowman over, so I hope Strowman breaks him and Angle can get his job back to correct this. In reality, I’m pissed at Vince who can’t let anyone outside of The Beast or The Big Dog hold that belt. What does he have against Strowman who is big as a house, strong as Lesnar, and actually likes competing regardless of paycheck? Plus, Lesnar VS Styles again at Survivor Series? The hell is that?

The main event being the dream tag team match was actually a lot more fun than I expected. Granted, all these guys are very old, so the pacing was slower, but the match managed to be fun. As strong as the Brothers of Destruction looked, it made sense for DX to win given it was HBK’s first match back. This story can continue with HBK and Taker having their own #LastTimeEver, or HBK going on his dream match world tour against any number of today’s current superstars. Maybe fans will get HBK VS AJ Styles after all.

My Score: 8.5/10