Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Monday Night Raw Results & Report! (3/4/19)
Raw pulls into the Fastlane!
Raw has so much to address on the Road to Wrestlemania! Will Ronda Rousey still be champion? What will Triple H have to say about Batista’s attack on Flair?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Six Man Tag: Finn Balor, Braun Strowman & Kurt Angle VS Baron Corbin, Drew McIntyre & Bobby Lashley w/ Lio Rush; Corbin, McIntyre & Lashley win.
- Natalya VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad; Natalya wins.
- Raw Tag Team Gauntlet: Heavy Machinery wins.
- Dean Ambrose VS Elias; Elias wins.
- Tamina w/ Nia Jax VS Sasha Banks w/ Bayley; Tamina wins.
- Raw Tag Team Championships: The Revival VS Aleister Black & Ricochet; The Revival win, by disqualification, and retain the Raw Tag Team Championships.
PLAY BY PLAY
Roman Reigns is here!
The Big Dog returns again after the amazing news that his leukemia is in remission! Philadelphia welcomes Roman with a standing ovation as he makes his way out on stage and down the ramp. Roman soaks up all the cheers as he enters the ring. “Last week in Atlanta, that was the comeback.” But tonight in Philly, it’s time to take The Yard back. Roman thought about his future, what he wants, and there’s only one man standing in his way. That man is his brother, Seth Rollins. In order for Roman to get what he wants, he has to address Rollins, so he asks Rollins come to the ring. Seth Rollins does appear and Philly’s ready to #BurnItDown! The Architect hopes to be the Beast Slayer judging from the brand new shirt he’s got on. But Rollins does join Roman in the ring to talk.
“Alright, before we get to all that,” Rollins says, he wants to tell Roman something. Roman winning the fight of his life, literally, that was a great moment in Rollins’ life. Rollins feels inspired. He’ll take all that to Wrestlemania and truly slay the Beast! And more importantly, Rollins vows to bring the WWE Universal Championship back to Raw every single week! With that said, Rollins has an idea where Roman’s head is at. Rollins understands what it’s like to vacate a title. If anyone else deserves a shot as much as Rollins, it’s Roman. Fans are a little conflicted on that, but Rollins agrees to talk it out. Roman thought Rollins knew everything. Because he’s wrong on this one.
The one man who watched over Raw while Roman was gone was Rollins. Rollins was the one to keep everything in line. No one has more confidence in Rollins than Roman, because Roman knows Rollins has what it takes. Roman simply wishes Rollins luck. But he does need a favor. Anything for Roman. Anything? Yes, anything. Well then, let’s get the band back together. Fans know what that means! Rollins knows he said “anything”, but not that. Rollins can’t forgive Ambrose for what he did and when he did it. Roman sees he has his work cut out for him. Fans chant “Shield! Shield!” Seems they want it as much as Roman.
Roman has a different perspective after what he went through. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, life is short. The most important thing is the relationships they have, and the Shield are brothers. Roman can’t tell what Ambrose is up to, but he wants one more main event with his brothers before they’re gone. What does Rollins say? Rollins thinks as the fans chant for the Shield. “Y’know what, I put that part of my life behind me. But you’re right.” Rollins admits life is too short, so if Roman wants the Shield one last time, then for Roman, he’s in! But what about the third? Roman calls for Dean Ambrose! And though Rollins doubts it’ll happen, Ambrose does appear! The Lunatic Fringe paces on stage as fans cheer. And Elias attacks!! The Drifter SMACKS Ambrose with his guitar then runs away!
Roman and Rollins hurry to Ambrose’s side, but they weren’t fast enough. Ambrose gets up, shoves Rollins away and storms off. Will Ambrose still accept their invitation after this?
Backstage interview with Baron Corbin, Drew McIntyre, Bobby Lashley & Lio Rush.
Their response to The Shield’s near reunion doesn’t seem to bother this pack. McIntyre says he broke The Shield, because they were three men living in the past. It was pathetic. Corbin says the real news is that their trio will dominate Finn Balor, Braun Strowman & Kurt Angle. Lashley says Finn will learn he’s just borrowing Lashley’s Intercontinental Championship. Corbin says Angle will realize he can’t hang with the athletes of today. The pack heads out, because that match is next!
Six Man Tag: Finn Balor, Braun Strowman & Kurt Angle VS Baron Corbin, Drew McIntyre & Bobby Lashley w/ Lio Rush!
The Extraordinary Man teams with the Monster Among Men and Olympic Gold Medalist to battle their common enemies. Will the Lone Wolf, Scottish Terminator and Rocky Mountain Machine #GetTheseHands? Or will they establish themselves as the new alphas of Raw?
Raw returns as Strowman makes his entrance. The teams sort out and Strowman starts against Corbin. Corbin backs off to his corner then throws his vest at Strowman! Corbin throws hands then runs, but Strowman grabs him with one hand! Strowman shoves Corbin right out! Corbin comes back but runs into a clothesline! Strowman then clotheslines Corbin all the way out, and hurries to BLAST Corbin into barriers! The Monster glares at Lashley as he puts Corbin back in the ring. Corbin scrambles and tags McIntyre. McIntyre stares Strowman down but is put in a corner! Strowman whips corner to corner but misses. He still rocks McIntyre with an uppercut! Strowman clubs McIntyre then tags in Finn. Finn climbs and drops ax handles.
Finn wrenches but McIntyre knees low. McIntyre drags Finn over and tags in Lashley. Lashley throws clubbing forearms then drags Finn up for a powerbomb. Finn fights out and then dumps Lashley out. Finn dodges Corbin to clothesline him out, then runs to FLY! Direct hit gets both Lashley and Corbin! McIntyre comes in but he’s sent out, too! Finn builds speed again, but Lio swipes his feet! Lashley clobbers Finn from behind! The pack is in control as we go to break.
Raw returns as Corbin whips Finn corner to corner. Finn boots back but runs into DEEP SIX! Cover, TWO! Corbin is furious but Finn does survive. Corbin drags Finn up for elbows to the chest and shoulder. Then Corbin puts Finn in a half nelson and chinbar. Fans rally up as Finn endures. Finn reaches for his corner but Corbin throws him out. Finn shoulders back in then fights Lashley off. He slingshots but into Corbin’s haymaker! Corbin tags McIntyre to stomp Finn out. McIntyre drags Finn up for a CHOP! McIntyre eggs Finn on to reach for his corner, but then drags him up for a suplex. Finn blocks and fights back, but McIntyre kicks a leg out. McIntyre deadlift suplexes Finn up and over! Cover, TWO, but McIntyre is on Finn with another chinbar.
Fans rally up again and Finn fights up. Finn reaches but has to fight McIntyre off. McIntyre whips Finn to the corner but Finn fights back! Finn runs but into a scoop, only to slip out. He dodges McIntyre int he corner, hot tag to Angle! Angle rallies with German Suplexes! Angle wants the hat trick but McIntyre denies it. McIntyre misses in the corner, and Angle gets that hat trick! Angle stalks McIntyre, Olympic Slam escaped. McIntyre prepares a bomb but Angle back drops! McIntyre sunset flips but McIntyre rolls through, ANKLE LOCK! Angle keeps McIntyre away but Lashley runs in. Lashley gets a German! Angle gets a Glasgow Kiss! McIntyre and Angle are both dazed while we go to break.
Raw returns again, and Corbin has Angle in a half nelson chinbar. Fans rally and Angle endures. Angle fights his way up and gets Corbin with a takedown. Angle wants the leg but Corbin shoves him away. Corbin misses in the corner then is sent outside. Hot tag to Strowman! The Monster rallies on them all! Strowman puts Corbin in a corner, and hits a big clothesline! Then he clubs Corbin with one arm! Fans fire up with Strowman as he scoops Corbin. Tag to Finn, MONSTER SLAM! COUP DE GRACE! But Lio puts Finn’s foot on the ropes! The ref stops counting but Finn chases after Lio! Lio dodges, Lashley TACKLES Finn into a post! But Strowman runs in! Lashley gets clear, Lio gets rammed into the timekeeper’s area! Fans lose their minds as McIntyre hurries to put Finn back in.
Corbin tags Lashley and Lashley SPEARS Finn! Cover, Lashley’s team wins!
Winner: Bobby Lashley, Drew McIntyre & Baron Corbin, Lashley pinning
The Rocky Mountain Machine pins the WWE Intercontinental Champion, will this earn him a rematch? Will Corbin and his pack continue to stand tall?
Corbin does continue the beating on Finn, and McIntyre throws Angle into barriers. Corbin joins in, as does Lashley. McIntyre holds Angle up for Corbin, armed with steel steps. Lashley and McIntyre whip Angle into the steps! Then they go to move the base into the ring. Fans boo as McIntyre CLAYMORES Finn! Lashley hauls Finn over and Corbin helps stand him up. They double CHOKE SLAM Finn on the steps! Fans boo as Corbin, McIntyre and Lashley stand tall. Will anyone be able to stop them?
Backstage interview with Heavy Machinery.
Tucker Knight & Otis Dozovic have been in good moods, but not everyone seems to like them being around. The Raw Tag Team Division all talked bad about the new teams. But at the same time, these new teams are fresh meat. But the Ascension don’t like Heavy Machinery. He looks like Chris Farley in a bad SNL skit. But to Konnor & Viktor, Heavy Machinery are just a pair of dumb bells. Otis is sensitive, but if that’s how The Ascension feels, Heavy Machinery will steamroll everyone! They hurt those who hurt them first, will the entire Raw Tag Team Division be put in the Compactor?
Natalya VS Ruby Riott w/ The Riott Squad!
The Queen of Harts and the Squad Leader aren’t done with each other. After last week’s tag team match was rudely interrupted by Becky Lynch, this week offers another chance for Natty and Ruby to settle things. Will the grudge be settled once and for all? Or will it only grow stronger?
Raw returns as the bell rings. Ruby rams her knee in on Natty then throws her down for fast hands. She kicks Natty in the back then asks Natty, “Where’s Ronda, huh!?” Ruby kicks Natty again then bumps Natty off buckles. She stomps a mudhole in but backs off at 4. Ruby snapmares Natty into a headlock. She grinds Natty down but fans rally up. Natty feeds off the energy to fight out and arm-drag Ruby down. Ruby ducks the discus but Natty counters to a snap suplex! And then hits the discus after all! Natty grabs the legs and puts on the Sharpshooter! The Squad reach for Ruby, but Natty drags Ruby away! Ruby turns and slaps her way out! Ruby cradles Natty, TWO, Natty has the cradle! Natty wins!
Winner: Natalya, by pinfall
The Queen of Harts gets the better of the Squad Leader, then gets clear of the rest of the Squad. But heading out now is Lacey Evans. The “Sassy Southern Belle” simply struts her stuff again then heads back with a smile. Is Lacey just here for the spotlight? Or will she finally flex that Woman’s Right in the ring?
Stephanie McMahon’s guests arrive.
Saturday Night Live’s Michael Che and Colin Jost are here to prepare for their roles as special correspondents for Wrestlemania! Michael and Colin are also pumped for Raw in Philadelphia. Fans pop for that. But Colin also looks forward to being in New York for Mania! Fans boo. Stephanie tries to explain to Michael and Colin that the WWE superstars are just a bit more forceful than their costars. Well Colin wrestled in high school, he should be fine. Michael knows better. Stephanie will make sure they have security.
Triple H heads to the ring!
The Game is here to respond to what The Animal, Batista, did to the Nature Boy last week. Raw wanted to celebrate Ric Flair’s 70th birthday, but Batista wanted HHH’s attention. Batista attacked Ric Flair and dragged him out of his dressing room, but ran off before HHH could get to him. Batista would rub it in on an Instagram video post! He apologizes for not being at Raw tonight, because he just doesn’t like Philly. So what Batista will do is also think about how he doesn’t like Pittsburgh, but maybe he’ll see HHH there. They’re playing this game by Batista’s rules. #GameOver.
Raw returns as HHH speaks. As if HHH wasn’t mad enough. HHH came out last week, wanting to celebrate one of the biggest legends in pro-wrestling ever. He wanted the world to see the 16-time world champion and have everyone sing his praises. But HHH wasn’t just there for Ric Flair, he was there for Richard Fliehr, the real man behind the Nature Boy. Not many people know Richard Fliehr, but that is the guy HHH spent years with and became best friends with. Fliehr was there for HHH’s best and worst times, and HHH was there for Fliehr’s best and worst. They were Best Man for each other, though that proved hard for HHH to be at Ric’s weddings. HHH was there when Ric buried his son.
HHH grows emotional as he says Richard Fliehr was clinging to life a year ago. And during that time, every phone call would fill HHH with dread. Fans “WOO~” in support of HHH and Ric. HHH says that he was here for Fliehr, a man who wasn’t really supposed to be alive, to give him what he loved most of all: standing in this ring for the fans. HHH was there to walk Fliehr to this ring for one more round as Nature Boy, because it is what Ric lived for. But it didn’t happen, because of “that piece of…” Fans know HHH wants to say it, but HHH composes himself. Batista wanted HHH’s attention. Batista’s cried about it all over the internet, and when he didn’t get what he wanted, he couldn’t quit. Which is odd, because Batista quit when he had the fans behind him!
But the one time he couldn’t quit, he attacked a man lucky to be alive! And now he wants to talk on titantron and do Bad Guy 101. Real original trash talk. But HHH doesn’t care where Batista wants to go or what Batista wants to do. HHH can come to Batista’s house! Or invite Batista to his house! It doesn’t matter where or when, any building, HHH will wait for Batista to “have some balls” and show up!
HHH wants Batista to know one thing: for every moment in Evolution, for what Batista did to Ric, this won’t be The Game, this won’t be a product, but that won’t be who is standing in front of Batista. It’s not the character, it’s the man. Look him in the eyes if you can, Batista, and HHH will give him everything! Batista wanted HHH’s attention? He’s got it!! Will Batista regret playing games?
Backstage interview with Stephanie McMahon.
What is her reaction to Ronda Rousey’s literal dropping of the belt, and Charlotte Flair’s expectation of being crowned the new champion? Stephanie knows Charlotte’s getting ahead of herself. But Ronda was disrespectful to the title. That is why WWE will do what’s best for WWE: they are dropping all charges against Becky Lynch. That includes the 60-day suspension. But Becky’s not 100% physically, so Stephanie invited Becky to sign a Hold Harmless Agreement. WWE is not responsible if something happens to Becky at Fastlane, when The Man goes 1v1 with The Queen again for the vacant Raw Women’s Champion. The Baddest Woman on the Planet will have to just accept this! Who will be the NEW champion this close to Wrestlemania?
Roman Reigns finds Dean Ambrose.
Aren’t they past hanging out in dark places backstage like this, right? They have a locker room, and there’s a chair for Ambrose at any time he wants. Ambrose knows Roman wants to talk, but he needs to stay sharp for his match later. Ambrose heads off again, but will he ever come back around to being a brother to The Shield?
Raw Tag Team Gauntlet!
Heavy Machinery wanted to get back at the bullies for making fun of Otis, and now they’ll be the first team in this gauntlet match! Will it be an All You Can Beat buffet for Tucker and Otis?
Raw returns, and Heavy Machinery’s opponents are…
Heavy Machinery VS The B-Team!
Will Curt Axel & Bo Dallas have to change the “B” in B-Team from “Best” to “Bulldozed”?
The other teams in the gauntlet, The Ascension and the Major Brothers, are already ringside to be ready for their turns. The bell rings and Dozer starts with Axel. Axel wants to lighten the mood with a Floss! Dozer bulldozes him! Dozer puts Axel in a corner and clubs away. Tag to Tucker and Otis whips him in for a big splash. Tucker feeds Axel to a tackle, then covers, TWO! Axel crawls away but Tucker runs in. Tucker misses and Axel stomps a mudhole stomp. Bo chants “B-Team! B-Team! Go go go!” Tag to Bo and they double whip Tucker. Tucker kicks them away then throws Bo into Axel. Tucker clotheslines and makes Axel DDT Bo! Tag to Dozer, and he drags Bo up. Dozer runs, Tucker holds Bo, but Bo fights out! Bo runs into a scoop, and COMPACTOR! Cover, Heavy Machinery ELIMINATES The B-Team!
Heavy Machinery VS The Ascension!
But no time to waste, Konnor attacks Dozer already! Konnor trash talks Dozer then runs, but Dozer runs him over! Tag to Tucker, and they double body shot. Heavy Machinery march, then squash Konnor with a belly sandwich! Tucker covers, ONE! Tucker’s on Konnor but Konnor powers him to the corner. The Ascension mug Tucker in the corner then Viktor tags in. Viktor throws a big knee strike that rocks Tucker! Cover, TWO, but Viktor’s still on Tucker with European Uppercuts and CHOPS! Tag to Konnor, and The Ascension double punch, club and kick Tucker down. Konnor covers, TWO! Konnor keeps on Tucker with a facelock, then drags him up to a corner. He CHOPS Tucker, then clubs away on Tucker’s back. He whips corner to corner hard and Tucker falls to the mat. Cover, ONE!
Fans rally for Tucker, as does Dozer, but Konnor tells them to shut up. Konnor runs in but misses Tucker! Konnor hits post and Tucker crawls. Hot tags to Viktor and Dozer! Dozer rallies with big belly tackles! He scoops and throws Viktor overhead! Dozer runs in corner to corner for a splash, then climbs up! Dozer hits a Vader Bomb! Cover, Heavy Machinery ELIMINATES The Ascension!
Heavy Machinery VS The Major Brothers!
And just like The Ascension before them, Curt Hawkins & Zack Ryder attack right away! Hawkins rains down rights on Dozer then drags him up. Hawkins dragon sleepers and tags in Ryder. Inverted backbreaker to inverted DDT! Ryder slingshots for a splash! Cover, TWO! Ryder rains down rights on Dozer then tags Hawkins. Russian Leg Sweep and STO combo! Cover, but Tucker breaks it! Tucker throws hands on Ryder then clotheslines himself out with Ryder! Hawkins hurries after Dozer, but runs into a pop-up powerslam! Dozer pumps it up and fans cheer as he hits the Caterpillar! Cover, Heavy Machinery wins!
Winners: Heavy Machinery, Otis Dozovic pinning
Lesson learned: don’t get on Otis’ bad side! Heavy Machinery is COMIIIN~, will they demolish the entire WWE Tag Team Division?
Michael Che and Colin Jost walk the halls.
Colin wonders if Philly has any gluten free cheese steaks. Michael tells Colin that as the Wrestlemania correspondents, they need to be serious. Colin’s serious! He’s even been keeping up. The Bushwackers, Coco B. Ware, and he can’t wait to smell what The Rock is cooking. They need to get him a TV or something. But they already work in live television, what could possibly surprise them? They come across EC3 spritzing himself with… It smells like vodka? But EC3 aside, they also encounter Titus O’Neil! Titus loves SNL! Let’s get a pic for the kids! Just do it, Colin. Okay, cheese~! And speaking of, Titus is gonna have a cheese steak. Then No Way Jose and his conga line pass through. Michael wants to party, but Colin says they need to remain unbiased. Says the man wearing a Mets hat in Philly…
Torrie Wilson is a WWE Hall of Fame inductee!
The most downloaded and searched woman on WWE, and proud to be both beautiful and strong, Torrie was certainly one of the leading ladies of the WWE Diva’s Era. And now she can add a Hall of Fame ring to her collection!
Backstage interview with Charlotte Flair.
The Queen won’t be getting the Raw Women’s Championship by default, she has to face Becky Lynch at Fastlane. If Becky signs the Hold Harmless Agreement. But Charlotte knows Becky will sign because of her stubborn Irish pride. Becky’s also very arrogant, unlike Charlotte. But even at Becky’s best, The Man doesn’t compare to The Queen. Becky was crushed when she was suspended, but now Charlotte vows to put Becky on the shelf for good. Charlotte “apologizes” for ruining everyone’s hopes for Becky, but Becky is literally a one-legged person in an ass kicking contest. Charlotte vows to be THE Raw Women’s Champion, but will she?
Now Seth Rollins finds Dean Ambrose backstage.
Quite the set-up back here. Can they talk? They haven’t always gotten along, but that’s just what brothers do. Brothers fight, but are still brothers. Rollins admits to Ambrose that whether it’s against or together, they make each other better. They’re wrestling soulmates. So let’s get the Shield back together one last time? No can do. Ambrose appreciates the help last week, but he has business to take care of. And he’ll do it on his own. The Lunatic is proving to be a stubborn one. Will he ever come around?
Ladies and Gentlemen: Elias.
The Drifter is in Philadelphia, and sings a song. “You know how I know I’m in Philly? The Stanley Cup is nowhere to be found. You know how I know I’m in Philly? Because everyone takes such pride in this city. You know how I know I’m in Philly? Because everyone’s mom looks like that googly-eye slob, Gritty.” Fans don’t appreciate their moms or their mascot being made fun of. But Elias continues. “You know how I know I’m in Philly? Because everyone I see is a fat load. You know how I know I’m in Philly? Because I saw an Eagles fan eating horse manure on the side of the road.”
But do you REALLY wanna know how you know you’re in Philly? The kids have no futures, no matter how hard they try. And Bryce Harper said this is where his career would go to die! Ambrose makes his entrance and fans cheer!
Dean Ambrose VS Elias!
The Lunatic doesn’t want to wait, he tells the ref to ring the bell. The bell does ring, and Ambrose goes right at Elias with jabs and chops! Ambrose forearms and haymakers but Elias knees and chops back. Elias whips but Ambrose dodges to tackle Elias down! Ambrose throws fast hands then stomps Elias in a corner. The ref backs Ambrose off and Elias boots back. But Elias runs into a kick and Ambrose throws him down by his hair. Ambrose clotheslines Elias out but paces about the ring. Ambrose goes out and kicks Elias to bump him off aprons. He even Russian Leg Sweeps him into barriers. Ambrose refreshes the count to put Elias back in, only to clothesline Elias back out! The Lunatic paces again while we go to break.
Raw returns as Elias decides to go Old School. Fans boo and jeer but Elias hits the ax handle. Elias boots Ambrose down then stalks him to the ropes. He stomps Ambrose to the apron, then baseball slides him off! “Who Wants to Walk with Elias!?” Philly doesn’t. Elias slingshots but Ambrose dodges. Ambrose runs and DIVES onto Elias! Both men are down and a ring count begins. The count reaches 5 as Ambrose bumps Elias off barriers again. Ambrose puts Elias in then starts rallying with lariats! Ambrose runs in for a forearm smash in the corner, then whips Elias corner to corner. He hits another forearm but Elias rams Ambrose into buckles and clubs him from behind. Elias catches his breath while fans jeer. Elias stomps Ambrose out then drops a knee! Cover, ONE!
Elias keeps his cool as he drags Ambrose up. Elias throws haymakers then fisherman’s, but Ambrose cradles! TWO, and Ambrose gets a neckbreaker! Ambrose fires up and heads for a corner. Ambrose climbs but the bad back bothers him. He still forces himself up, then leaps, but into a leaping knee! Elias drags Ambrose up, Drift Away neckbreaker! Cover, Elias wins!
Winner: Elias, by pinfall
The smash hit from earlier tonight pays off, and Elias picks up the win! Will this lead Elias to a title opportunity on the Road to Wrestlemania? What does Ambrose have to do to get out of his slump? Well, Roman and Rollins appear on stage. Will the two of them together manage to break through to Ambrose?
Raw returns to Roman and Rollins heading to the ring.
The brothers join Ambrose while he’s still stinging from the defeat. Rollins and Roman talk to Ambrose but Ambrose keeps pacing. Ambrose wants to leave but Rollins and Roman won’t let him until they talk this out. He pushes his way through and gets out of the ring. Ambrose leaves through the crowd, and up the stairs. He may not want the reunion, but he does reference the old habits. But wait, Corbin returns, with McIntyre and Lashley in tow. “C’mon, guys. Please, just spare us another minute from this broken record.” Philly may be the City of Brotherly Love, but this is just sad.
McIntyre mocks the “fabled Hounds of Justice, now nothing more than three broken stray dogs fighting for the scraps.” He tells Roman that this probably isn’t the return he pictured. This is “bloody pathetic”! They were going to offer an epic match for Fastlane, but they don’t deserve it. So instead, this ends tonight! Corbin, Lashley and McIntyre mock The Shield more by flanking the ring very much the same way The Shield did. Roman and Rollins fight but it’s 3v2! McIntyre and Corbin have Roman while Lashley has Rollins. Ambrose gets mad, and rushes back down! The Shield IS back together! Ambrose fights every enemy, and Roman SUPERMAN PUNCHES Lashley! Corbin and McIntyre are ejected, and The Shield stands tall!
But it isn’t official without one thing. Roman and Rollins put their hands in. Ambrose paces while his brothers wait. He puts his hand in! The Shield fist bump is revived! Will the Hounds of Justice show they’ve still got some bite left in them?
Tamina w/ Nia Jax VS Sasha Banks w/ Bayley!
As a flip-side to last week’s match, the Daughter of Superfly goes against The Legit Boss to prepare for Fastlane’s WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship match! Will the Samoan Dynasty be able to get on the board before the titles are on the line? Or will the Boss & Hug Connection sweep them even before Sunday?
The bell rings and Tamina decks Sasha! Tamina rains down rights then stomps a mudhole in a corner. Sasha fights back and throws kicks. Sasha runs but into an elbow! Tamina covers, TWO! Tamina keeps her cool as she drags Sasha back up. She whips Sasha in then rams a big shoulder in! She throws Sasha across the way, then runs back in. Sasha slips out to knee Tamina back. Sasha runs for meteora in the corner, then another! Cover, TWO! Sasha keeps her cool as she drags Tamina up. Tamina headbutts back! Tamina runs but misses the diving headbutt! Sasha runs to hit the shining wizard! Cover, TWO! Bayley coaches Sasha up while Nia coaches Tamina. Sasha throws forearms on Tamina, but runs into a fireman’s carry! She fights out but Tamina rams her into a corner. Tamina throws Sasha then SUPERKICK, but it misses! Roll up, TWO!
Sasha keeps on Tamina but Tamina uppercuts her away! Tamina stalks Sasha to the corner, but misses! Russian Leg Sweep, into the Bank Statement crossface! Tamina endures, but Nia drags her all the way out! The fans boo and Bayley goes after her, but Nia tosses Bayley down! Sasha hits a Meteora from the apron! Tamina throws Sasha back in but Sasha spins to kick Tamina back! Sasha puts Tamina in now, but Nia anchors a foot! Sasha kicks Nia away, but gets a SUPERKICK from Tamina! Cover, Tamina wins!
Winner: Tamina, by pinfall
The Samoan Dynasty works together like a tag team does, and they even the score! Will Fastlane be a dead end for the #LegitHuggable reign? Or will the champs be able to survive the demolition derby and continue on towards Wrestlemania?
Michael and Colin react to the shocking events!
The Shield is back, the Samoan Dynasty looks great, and… Michael needs a pit stop. Does Colin need to go with him? To the bathroom. Well to watch his back. This isn’t a prison, Colin, it’s the WWE. Colin knows that. He’s not scared, either. But then he turns around into Braun Strowman! Colin thinks he’s a funny guy, huh? Strowman throws the Mets hat away. Colin is honored to meet Strowman. He saw that match. Tough loss, you’ll get them next time. D-Does Strowman work out? Colin does lat pull downs and jogging. Can he ask him something? Is any of this stuff even real? Strowman lifts Colin off the ground! What does he think!? Colin can’t answer but he’d probably apologize. Will Michael be the only one that makes it to Mania?
Raw returns, and Michael gets Strowman to spare Colin. Colin does apologize, and Michael apologizes for him. Strowman says he’ll see them at Mania. Wait, Strowman’s going to Mania? Will Colin reconsider taking this assignment?
Raw Tag Team Championships: The Revival VS Aleister Black & Ricochet!
The #TopGuys have been having a hard time against the newest crop of NXT superstars. They lost to DIY, Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano, and then they lost to the Dutch Destroyer and King of Flight! However, Ciampa’s leg was hurt during a match with The Bar on SmackDown and is not cleared to compete right now. Therefore, Aleister and Ricochet move up to already challenge for the tag team titles. Will Dash Wilder & Scott Dawson #SayYeah to a successful defense? Or will their reign #FadetoBlack?
Before the match, Aleister and Ricochet have an interview backstage. These two go from debuting to challenging, what do they have to say to their critics? “People fear what they can’t comprehend.” But let’s not worry about words but about actions. Ricochet and Aleister will show they are worthy through actions. They’re humbled, honored, and ready for this challenge. But tonight, “yo boys are about to fly even higher.” The music hits and the challengers make their entrances! Introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we begin this clash of NXT past and present to determine Raw’s future!
Teams sort out and Dash goes right at Aleister! Aleister throws haymakers and big kicks. Dawson runs in but he gets a kick. Dash blocks a boot and gives it to Dawson, to then hit a back suplex! Dash stomps Aleister then tags Dawson. They throw EuroUppers and kicks, then Dawson CHOPS and EuroUppers Aleister more. Dawson snapmares and drops elbows, and even a headbutt. Cover, TWO! Dawson stomps Aleister more and drags him up. He whips but Aleister dodges to quebrada! The GLORIOUS Duo, Bobby Roode & Chad Gable appear! They approach the ring as Aleister and Dawson crawl for their corners. Dawson anchors Aleister’s foot and tags in Dash. Dash drops an elbow to stop Aleister, and we continue after the break.
Raw returns and Dawson has Aleister in a keylock. Aleister fights his way up but Dawson keeps him from his corner. Gable & Roode watch closely as Dawson headlocks. Aleister arm-drags but Dawson shoves. Aleister comes back with a knee! Dawson haymakers but Aleister knees again! Both men are down and fans rally up. Dash tags back in and stops Aleister with a whip. Aleister dodges Dawson then sweeps the legs of both Dash and Dawson! Hot tag to Ricochet! The One and Only rallies on The Revival! Ricochet whips but Dawson reverses, only to run into Ricochet’s boot. Ricochet sees Dash coming and backslides him, TWO! Dawson swings but into a neckbreaker! Ricochet rolls Dash up, TWO!
Riocchet rocks Dawson with a right, then dodges Dash to try a crucifix. Dash holds ropes then sits down on the cover, but still holds ropes! The ref refuses to count, Ricochet sunset flips, TWO! Dash goes after Ricochet but gets a knee! Dawson returns but runs into Aleister’s boot. Ricochet huricanranas Dawson, then tackles Dash in the corner. Ricochet springboards for an uppercut! Fans fire up with him but Roode and Gable go after Dash!
Winners: The Revival, by disqualification; still Raw Tag Team Champions
The fight screws Aleister and Ricochet out of the titles, while the GLORIOUS Duo take their frustrations out on The Revival. Aleister and Ricochet shout at Roode and Gable, and now these four meet in the ring. “Is this how former champions act?” At least they were former champions, but Aleister and Ricochet don’t deserve to be champions so soon. Aleister turns away but Roode makes him turn back around, and a fight breaks out! Roode and Gable end up outside the ring, and both Aleister and Ricochet build speed! But they fake Roode and Gable out with springboard hero landings! Will the GLORIOUS Duo regret ruining this Raw Tag Team Championship match?
WWE celebrates March being Women’s History Month.
In line with that, Alexa Bliss works with Girl Up to discuss iconic women of the world. Ida B. Wells was a freed slave who became an investigative journalist, while Malala Yousafzai fought for equal education in her country. It is important for young women to know they can stand up for what they believe in.
Stephanie McMahon heads to the ring!
She of course has the Raw Women’s Championship and the Hold Harmless Agreement contract. Anything can happen on the Road to Wrestlemania, like the reformation of the Shield. Or in this case, Ronda Rousey relinquishing the title just weeks before the greatest show in sports entertainment. Stephanie replays the footage of Ronda wanting the McMahon Family to reinstate Becky so they could settle things, and when the answer was “No”, Ronda put the belt down. Stephanie says they’re going to start the road to fixing this situation. First to come out: Charlotte Flair! The Queen got handed her spot in the Wrestlemania match, and expected to be handed the title, but now she’ll have to fight for it at Fastlane. And of course, The Man, Becky Lynch! The Lass Kicker proudly wears her mugshot while she walks out with a crutch.
Becky and Charlotte stand in the ring together with Stephanie, and of course Philly is behind “Becky Balboa”. There needs to be a Raw Women’s Champion, so that is why we’re once again getting Charlotte VS Becky. But just one thing: with Becky still not at 100%, she needs to sign the Hold Harmless Agreement to absolve WWE of liability. Becky takes the contract, quickly looks it over, and Charlotte tells Becky to sign it. Unless Stephanie wants to just go ahead and hand that title to The Queen. Becky tells Charlotte she beat her on one leg in the Royal Rumble, and can beat her down here right now. Stephanie keeps the peace, this all has to be done officially. Then after that, go at it at Fastlane. Becky signs, and it’s official! But here comes Ronda!! She storms her way into the arena, but we go to break!
Raw returns once more, and Ronda’s made it out onto the ramp! Ronda storms her way into the ring, and asks Stephanie what she’s up to. Well Ronda didn’t leave her any choice! She didn’t vacate the title! She just gave Stephanie time to think it over. This was to include Becky, not exclude Ronda. Now give her the title back. Fans are divided but Stephanie has no choice, she gives the title back. Stephanie apologizes, and there is still business to be done. Becky Lynch VS Charlotte Flair will still happen. If Becky loses, that’s it. But if she wins, she’s added to the Raw Women’s Championship at Wrestlemania for a Triple Threat! Does that help? Is that good for Ronda and the WWE Universe? Fans say “YES! YES!”
Ronda knows Stephanie values her wallet over her pride. Ronda’s too much money and Stephanie knows it. Is this because she knows Ronda is able to go rogue whenever she wants? Ronda has had enough! Ronda works her ass off and yet the fans just boo! Fans chant for Becky while Ronda is the one in the ring! Ronda can break Charlotte and Becky with a sneeze! Damn the Man and Screw the Woo, no more Mrs. Nice Bitch! Ronda decks Charlotte and gets Becky in the armbar!! Becky doesn’t tap, and Charlotte comes in, only to run away again. Ronda glares at Becky, but Becky doesn’t back down. Becky takes Ronda’s rowdy strikes and judo throw!
Ronda hammers away on Becky but Charlotte slithers in from behind. Ronda gets the armbar again, but Charlotte decides to stay away. Charlotte will get Becky at Fastlane, but will Ronda make her regret it at Wrestlemania? Ronda keeps on Becky with another judo throw and hammers away, to give the other arm the armbar! Fans are divided again as Ronda finally lets Becky go. Ronda holds her title up high as she stands over Becky. Will Becky even be able to beat Charlotte now? Or will she overcome the odds and make Mania a Triple Threat?
Backstage interview with Stephanie McMahon.
After doing Ronda a favor, what is her reaction to this outburst? Well, Stephanie says this wasn’t a favor. Ronda finally showed her true colors. Ronda’s the animal Stephanie knew she was all along! There was no regard for the audience or her opponents. Stephanie almost feels sorry for Becky after seeing all that. Who does Ronda think she is to do that? Stephanie looks forward to Wrestlemania, because Ronda might finally get what’s got coming to her. Either way, it’ll be one hell of a main event. As a McMahon, she will address this behavior in a way that impacts Ronda’s career. Will Ronda come to regret going rogue?
My Thoughts:
Well this was definitely a wild Raw. And quite a bit of it is just proving the rumors true. The opening Six Man Tag, which was a good match, and The Shield’s newest reunion tie together, which falls into “Ambrose is leaving after Mania” story. Roman embraces living life to the fullest and wants his brothers back, and we’re going to get The Shield VS Corbin’s new pack, that match is going to be good. Also, I’m hoping The Shield wins and there are no turns, this should be the “Final Fist Bump” if we aren’t getting it at Wrestlemania. Then things can be whatever WWE is planning for Mania, i.e. Rollins VS Lesnar, Ambrose VS ??? and who knows what Roman will do. The same goes for Lashley and Lio finishing their story with Finn, and hopefully no more team-ups because McIntyre doesn’t need to be with anyone.
Natalya VS Ruby was obviously just filler to give Lacey Evans a reason to show up again. Lacey has a new nickname, which while good (because calling her the “Lady of WWE” doesn’t really work like “Lady of NXT” did) I’m not sure what it means. Is her gimmick being made generic? No more teaching the “nasties” a lesson? I’m honestly surprised she isn’t going to SmackDown, but maybe if Lacey stays on Raw, Nikki Cross can finally go over and help SAnitY get going. And while Colin’s segment with Strowman was hilarious, I really don’t want celebrity guest stars for Raw or Wrestlemania. Hopefully we don’t have to worry too much about them, aside from some segment on Wrestlemania.
Heavy Machinery sure is getting stronger. They win the Tag Gauntlet, that I honestly thought Hawkins & Ryder could’ve won to get that losing streak broken. Then the Raw Tag Team Championship match was great, but the DQ finish is fine, it keeps everyone strong. With Tommaso Ciampa’s leg being a concern after that Sheamus sunset flip powerbomb botch, DIY will be taking a step back, so that’s where Roode & Gable step in. We’ll get a Raw Tag Team Championship Triple Threat, which will still be great because Roode and Gable are a great team. It’ll be an amazing NXT alumni triple threat tag, and who knows if The Revival retains. If it’s not going to be DIY, I can’t be sure Aleister and Ricochet are going to be tag team champions together.
I did not see HHH’s segment going the way it did. He had great passion in his promo, as always, but I’m not sure if this is how they should frame the story. HHH making this as if it’s breaking the fourth wall and it’s a real fight, that’s already falling flat because we know this is still a pro-wrestling story. Make it sound personal, make it sound angry, but don’t act like this is about the “real” Ric, Batista and HHH. HHH VS Batista is going to be a great match, but the momentum from that shocking moment last week has already died down.
Naturally Tamina won against Sasha, thanks to Nia, but it’s so that both teams are even going into their tag title match. Sasha and Bayley are obviously going to win, because otherwise their moment on NXT would be a waste. Still hoping to see Bayley and Sasha take on a SmackDown team, an NXT team and a legends team at Mania. And finally, we see just how the WWE wants to take us to the Raw Women’s Championship Triple Threat, and it’s with a HEEL Ronda! They could’ve let Becky get in at least one real shot, but this is for her underdog story. Becky will win despite bad arms on top of legs, she’ll win that Triple Threat, and now I see how Ronda is taking time off after Mania: Stephanie might “suspend” Ronda once she’s no longer champion. Then Ronda can return alongside the MMA Horsewomen.
My Score: 8.2/10
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The Road to the Tokyo Dome goes through KOPW!
As 2024 nears an end, Great-O-Khan defends the KOPW Championship one more time, against a former KOPW Champion in Taichi! Who will be THE 2024 King of Pro-Wrestling?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Kickoff – Chase Your Dream Match: Shoma Kato VS Hiromu Takahashi; Hiromu wins.
- Boltin Oleg VS Satoshi Kojima; Boltin wins.
- Triple Threat Tag: Jeff Cobb & Jakob Austin Young VS Ryohei Oiwa & Hartley Jackson VS Ren Narita & Yujiro Takahashi; Narita & Yujiro win.
- DOUKI & Taka Michinoku VS El Desperado & Master Wato; Desperado & Wato win.
- Fatal 4 Way: Kevin Knight VS Robbie Eagles VS Francesco Akira VS “Drilla” Dan Moloney; Eagles wins.
- Six Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS Bullet Club War Dogs; LIJ wins.
- Shota Umino & Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Zack Sabre Jr. & Kosei Fujita; ZSJ & Fujita win.
- KOPW Championship Three Stages of Hell: Great-O-Khan VS Taichi; Khan wins and is the definitive 2024 KOPW Champion.
PLAY BY PLAY
After the Triple Threat Tag…
The House of Torture of course cheated to win, but they wouldn’t leave it at that! They waited until the United Empire and TMDK argued with each other to then attack them all! Yujiro Takahashi CLUBS Oiwa down while Narita shoves Cobb into big Hartley Jackson! And then Narita JAMS Cobb with the pushup bar! The fans boo but Narita JAMS Oiwa up, too! The Souled Out Son of Strong Style is so proud of himself as he holds up his NJPW World TV Championship, but wait. Christmas music starts playing? The fans clap along as surprise! Santa and his reindeer are here! Well, one reindeer. But shouldn’t the House of Torture be on the naughty list?
Santa Claus walks over, and he gets the mic. He sounds familiar as he tells, “Narita-san… You have a Christmas present waiting. Would you like it now?” Narita asks what the heck is going on. Santa steps into the ring and offers Narita the little tiny bag. Narita snatches the bag, then he and Yujiro look at it. The fans asks, “Nani nani? <What is it?>” Narita tells them to shut up. Narita gets the bag open and pulls out… Blue sunglasses! With LED lights! The fans cheer as the lights go down! “E! L! P!” EL PHANTASMO IS HERE! The Headbanga has been battling cancer, but he’s here in Korakuen Hall!
Narita is furious but ELP slides right into the ring! Narita & Yujiro run away, but the fans cheer ELP on as he stands side-by-side with Jado Claus. ELP gets the mic now, and the fans cheer him on. ELP takes a moment before saying, in Japanese, “Cancer. Cancer… I’ve beaten cancer! And I love Korakuen!” But ELP asks Jado-san how to say a certain something in Japanese. He whispers it, but then Narita & Yujiro attack! The fans boo these cowards, but then Narita says Merry Christmas! But ELP BOOTS him, ELBOWS Yujiro, then dodges Narita to SUDDEN DEATH! Jado Claus DECKS the Tokyo Pimp!
ELP again asks Jado, and Jado says on behalf of ELP, that ELP is going to wrestle tomorrow night! And… Then he’ll be at the Tokyo Dome! ELP grabs the NJPW World TV Championship! ELP looks it over, and looks to the crowd, and then to Jado, but then Jeff Cobb and Ryohei Oiwa get in the ring. Cobb asks if ELP’s good. ELP is good. Are they good? Then let’s turn it up a notch! FATAL 4 WAY for the TV Championship! Narita snatches his belt, gets out of the ring, and tells everyone to shut up! The odds just got stacked against the House of Torture, will the New Year have a NEW NJPW World TV Champion one way or another?
Shota Umino & Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Zack Sabre Jr. & Kosei Fujita!
Ahead of battling for THE IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, The Roughneck and The Front Man bring some back up! The Ace is also preparing to fight Evil, will he and Shota bring a Once in a Century Paradigm Shift? Or will ZSJ and the Japanese Young Punk prove The Mighty Don’t Kneel?
The teams sort out and Shota starts against ZSJ. The fans cheer this WrestleKingdom preview, and Korakuen duels between “SHOTA! SHOTA!” and “ZAKU! ZAKU!” ZSJ and Shota feel things out, then knuckle lock. ZSJ clinches but Shota fights back with his own clinch. ZSJ slips around to chinbar but Shota wrenches to a wristlock. ZSJ rolls, tries another chinbar but Shota cranks the wristlock. ZSJ bridges, spins, slips around and wrangles Shota! Shota kips up to WRING the arm, but ZSJ UP KICKS! The fans cheer as the two reset. Shota and ZSJ circle, feel things out, and knuckle lock. ZSJ then stands on Shota’s hand!
ZSJ has another hand and twists the wrist! Then he has both arms for a motorcycle stretch but Shota fights up. Shota turns things around, and he fights ZSJ as ZSJ tries to turn them back. ZSJ keeps trying, and he pushes through, but Shota spins things right back around! The fans cheer while Shota digs a foot into ZSJ’s back. ZSJ flips, kips up, spins things around, but Shota spins them back! The fans cheer, and Shota spins ZSJ. ZSJ dodges the lariat, Shota blocks a kick, but ZSJ ducks the enzigiri! Shota avoids the Penalty Kick and arm-drags ZSJ, but ZSJ headscissors! Shota kips free, avoids a leg pick, and the fans cheer!
Shota dares ZSJ to go for the leg but the two reset again. They feel things out, knuckle lock, and each man breaks free of one. They back off, and Shota tags in Tanahashi. The fans cheer, ZSJ tags in Fujita, and Korakuen strongly supports President Ace. Tanahashi and Fujita circle, tie up, and Tanahashi powers Fujita back. The ref counts, Tanahashi lets off slowly, but then Fujita turns things around! Tanahashi turns things around, and repeat! The ref counts, Fujita lets off slowly, but then both men block a kick! They argue over who lets go first, and eventually agree for a mutual break. They set the feet down, but then Fujita holds on!
Fujita CHOPS Tanahashi, then whips. Tanahashi reverses but Fujita ducks ‘n’ dodges to GAMANGIRI! The fans fire up and Fujita aims from a corner. Fujita runs corner to corner but Tanahashi BOOTS him! Shota CLOBBERS Fujita, then eggs ZSJ on! ZSJ runs up, Shota blocks a kick and he sends ZSJ into Tanahashi’s ELBOW! Shota CLOBBERS ZSJ and the fans fire up. Shota pursues ZSJ to the outside and CLUBS him down! Shota clamps onto ZSJ with a chinlock but the ref reprimands. Tanahashi CHOPS Fujita, but Fujita CHOPS Tanahashi! The fans fire up as Fujita storms back up, but he blocks a boot!
Fujita DRAGON SCREWS Tanahashi’s leg! Fujita kips up, ZSJ sends Shota into railing, and Fujita stomps Tanahashi. The fans rally and Fujita brings Tanahashi up to CHOP! Fujita eggs Tanahashi on, CHOPS him again, then CHOPS again! Tanahashi flounders and ZSJ tags in. ZSJ drags Tanahashi up to UPPERCUT! Tanahashi ends up in the TMDK corner, ZSJ UPPERCUTS him again! ZSJ says, “Mada mada!” and he UPPERCUTS again! Tanahashi falls, ZSJ tags in Fujita, and Fujita brings Tanahashi up. Fujita CHOPS again, and then CHOPS again! Tanahashi is stinging and using the ropes for defense while the fans rally up.
Tanahashi storms up but Fujita CHOPS! Tanahashi CHOPS, Fujita CHOPS! Tanahashi falls and Fujita BLASTS Shota! Tag to ZSJ and he grabs a leg. Fujita also grabs one, they drag Tanahashi to center, and then they both go after arms. Then they shift, ZSJ has an arm while Fujita has a leg! Then they both have legs again! Then ZSJ has a leg and Fujita has an arm! Then back to the arms! They both isolate the arms for DOUBLE STOMPS! The fans cheer, the ref reprimands and ZSJ “apologizes” with a bow. ZSJ stands on one of Tanahashi’s legs to then twist the other! Tanahashi endures, even as ZSJ TWEAKS the ankle!
ZSJ twists the foot the other way, flips Tanahashi over, and shifts around to have a headscissor and armlock! Shota stomps ZSJ but Fujita goes after Shota! Fujita TOSSES Shota, ZSJ tags Fujita back in. Fujita stomps Tanahashi, KICKS him in the back, but Tanahashi gets mad! Fujita KICKS Tanahashi but Tanahashi fires up! Fujita KICKS and CHOPS, but Tanahashi fires forearm after forearm! Fujita CHOPS again! Tanahashi grits his teeth but Fujita CHOPS again! And CHOPS again! SHOTEI! Fujita falls but so does Tanahashi! The fans rally up while both men crawl, hot tag to Shota! Shota rallies on Fujita with big forearms and elbows!
Shota whips, Fujita reverses, but Shota dropkicks the legs out! ZSJ runs up and RAMS Shota! Then ZSJ runs, but into Shota’s DROPKICK! The fans fire up and Shota goes to Fujita. Shota whips corner to corner, runs up, and UPPERCUTS! Shota reels Fujita in, FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Not quite perfect but Shota doesn’t mind. Shota clinches but Fujita fights the suplex with elbows. Shota runs up, but Fujita wrenches, waistlocks, but Shota ELBOWS free! Shota whips, Fujita reverses and DROPKICKS! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! Fujita crawls, hot tag to ZSJ!
ZSJ runs up to BOOT Shota! Shota stays up so ZSJ runs to BOOT him again! And BOOT him again! Shota roars and ROCKS ZSJ! Shota runs to ROCK ZSJ again! ZSJ UPPERCUTS, Shota eggs him on, repeat! Shota UPPERCUTS and ZSJ roars! ZSJ UPPER- NO, Shota hooks the arm, but ZSJ wrenches out of the backslide to PELE the arm! Then ZSJ basement DROPKICKS Shota! The fans fire up while Shota clutches a leg and an arm. ZSJ kicks him around, scuffs him and taunts him. The fans rally, the ref checks Shota, but Shota is okay to continue. ZSJ stands Shota up to UPPERCUT! And UPPERCUT!
Shota clinches to EXPLODER! Both men are down and the fans rally again! Shota crawls, hot tag to Tanahashi! Fujita runs up, but Tanahashi blocks a kick to DRAGON SCREW! Payback for earlier! Tanahashi runs up at ZSJ in a corner, blocks a boot, and DRAGON SCREWS! Tanahashi put some stank on that one! Then he goes up the corner for a SUNSET SENTON! Cover, TWO! ZSJ stays in this but the fans continue to rally! “GO ACE! GO ACE!” echoes out as Tanahashi runs, but ZSJ catches him into a COBRA TWIST! Tanahashi endures, then throws elbows into ZSJ’s leg. Tanahashi gets free to DRAGON SCREW again!
ZSJ writhes, Tanahashi ties the legs up, but ZSJ kicks at him! Tanahashi blocks a kick to GROUND DRAGON SCREW! And now, TEXAS CLOVER- NO, ZSJ fights the turnover and reels Tanahashi into a TRIANGLE HOLD! Tanahashi endures and the fans rally up, but Shota gets in! Shota stomps away on ZSJ, but then Fujita MISSILE DROPKICKS Shota! Fujita brings Tanahashi up but Tanahashi SHOTEIS him down! ZSJ is after Tanahashi but he avoids the shotei! ZSJ SLAPS Tanahashi, then PENALTY KICKS! Cover, TWO!! Tanahashi survives but ZSJ gives him a NECK TWIST! The fans fire up as ZSJ stand Tanahashi up.
ZSJ scoops but Tanahashi fights that, to a TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT! The fans fire up but Tanahashi isn’t done! TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT! Tanahashi stands ZSJ up again, but ZSJ scoops to ZACK DRIVER!! Cover, ZSJ & Fujita win!
Winners: Zack Sabre Jr. & Kosei Fujita, by pinfall
Shota can’t believe The Ace fell, but this is why ZSJ is the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion! Will ZSJ do this all to Shota when they’re 1v1 in the Tokyo Dome? Or will Shota prove he’s mightier than The Mighty?
KOPW Championship Three Stages of Hell: Great-O-Khan VS Taichi!
The Dominator has, well, dominated as KOPW Champion for a long stretch of 2024, but the Holy Emperor did close out 2023 with this title. Granted, Taichi says that win, lose or draw, this is his final KOPW Championship match. As such, tonight’s stipulation is a sort of “Best Of” compilation as we go Best 2 Out of 3. Part one: a no ropes Sumo Rules match! Part two: Yoshinobu Kanemaru as special guest referee? Well, he would be a neutral party… And part three, if needed, will be a LAST MAN STANDING MATCH! Will Taichi “retire” from this truly freestyle division standing tall? Or will Khan truly conquer KOPW for the United Empire?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, but Taichi also brings back the trophy for the occasion, and it’s time to end the year in style!
Sumo Rules!
Both men finish preparations with weight belts and some stretching. They square up, the ref says go and they RAM into each other! The fans rally as both men go for those weight belts to use as leverage. They go around, get very close to the ring edge, but then Khan moves things away. Khan THROWS Taichi, but Taichi stays on the ring so the sumo match continues. They reset and go again! Taichi pushes Khan back with both hands, but Khan digs in his heels! They clinch, go around, and Taichi goes for the edge! Khan pulls on Taichi’s leg to get around, but Taichi uses that to steer Khan to another edge! But Khan hits a fireman’s carry takeover!
Khan drags Taichi up but Taichi fights off the throw! They clinch and fight for control again. They each try to lift with the belt! Khan has Taichi near the edge, but then Taichi has Khan near the edge! Khan is teetering and the fans fire up! Taichi THROWS Khan to the floor, Taichi wins the fall!
Khan: 0; Taichi: 1
Special Guest Referee!
The fans are thunderous as Taichi takes the Sumo Rules fall, but now we go to a much more complicated situation. The ropes have to be put back up, sure, but now the Heel Master of all people is going to be the referee! The time it takes to set up the ropes is a reprieve for both sides, especially Khan as he has to catch his breath and refocus. Once the ropes are up, both men wait in the ring. All that is left is the buckle pads, and of course, Kanemaru himself. Kanemaru gets a proper introduction and entrance before he goes to the ring, and wow, he’s even wearing an official NJPW referee shirt with the lion mark on it.
Referee Kanemaru does his check and he even tells Taka Michinoku to watch himself. Kanemaru does a far less thorough check of Khan than Taichi! Did the Empire pay Kanemaru off?! Kanemaru has Taichi cool off, then whispers something to Khan! The bell rings, the fans rally for Khan, and Khan circles with Taichi. They tie up, Taichi powers Khan to ropes, and Kanemaru calls for a ropebreak. Then he has a fast count! Taichi lets off before 4 and argues with Kanemaru! Kanemaru says that’s his count, deal with it. Khan and Taichi reset, tie up, and Khan puts Taichi on ropes. Kanemaru pays more attention to Taka than Taichi!
The fans can’t help but laugh as Kanemaru finally does count, and now it’s really slow! Taichi protests, but Khan pulls Taichi’s arms. Then he CHOPS Taichi and stops at “3!” Khan then goes after Taichi, wrenches and wristlocks, and Kanemaru is asking if Taichi gives up!? Taichi tells him to shut up, but Khan kicks and CLUBS Taichi. Khan whips, Taichi BOOTS Khan down, then covers! Kanemaru strolls over to count! And it’s so slow! “TWO” and the fans cheer. Taichi is upset, but Khan rolls Taichi up! SO FAST!! TWO!! Taichi is getting pissed but Kanemaru backs away. Taichi stomps Khan, and Kanemaru’s untying a buckle pad?!
Taichi stomps Khan around, Khan leaves the pad there loosely, and Taichi whips. Khan reverses, and SURPRISE! bare buckles! Taka protests but Kanemaru SMACKS him with the pad! Khan plays dumb, and then he stands on Taichi’s lower back. Taichi has the ropes, but Kanemaru kicks the arm away! Khan has Taichi’s other arm, Taichi keeps grabbing for ropes but Kanemaru keeps kicking the hand away! Khan drags Taichi up, brings him around, and ROCKS him in the back! Taichi goes to a corner, Khan Mongolian Chops him on the back! And Mongolian Chops again! And Mongolian Chops again! Kanemaru doesn’t bother counting at all!
Taka protests, Kanemaru warns him, but then Khan hops up to sit on his throne! The fans cheer while Taichi endures, and only now does Kanemaru count! Khan asks hold on, hold on, so Kanemaru stops counting! Khan hops down, and then he puts Kanemaru up on the throne! Khan gets the fans to join in on the “Ohh…! HMPH!” Kanemaru isn’t into it so he hops down. Khan apologizes to Kanemaru, then he kicks Taichi around. Taichi gets up to fire hands! Khan kicks low, whips, but Taichi reverses to wrench and HOOK KICK! The fans fire up while both men are down. Taichi stands, and he drags Khan up into SEITEI JUJIHOU!
Kanemaru might be stuck, he can’t ignore Khan tapping. But then Kanemaru drags Khan over to the ropes! Taichi is frustrated with Kanemaru but Kanemaru says that’s a ropebreak. Taichi storms up on Kanemaru, but then Khan waistlocks! Ripcord and SAYANAGI! Both men are down again and the fans rally up! Taichi goes to a corner, Khan runs in, but Taichi dodges! GAMANGIRI! The fans fire up and Taichi snarls. Taichi TAKES OFF THE PANTS! The pants were a bit stubborn, but still. But then Kanemaru “checks” Khan just to stay between him and Taichi! Taichi says move or else! Kanemaru says he’s the ref!
Kanemaru kicks Taichi, CLAWS Taichi’s eyes, then traps his arms! Khan gets up to IRON RIGHT!! Kanemaru “scolds” Khan, then “checks” Taichi. Khan rests in a corner and Kanemaru drags Taichi up for him. Taichi CHOKES Kanemaru! Kanemaru kicks low! Kanemaru whips Taichi into a corner, ELBOWS him, then Khan LARIATS! Khan snapmares and covers, Kanemaru wants more first! Khan sits Taichi up for a BASEMENT DROPKICK! Now cover, TWO!! Taichi survives so Kanemaru hurries to get his whiskey! Khan takes a swig, and Kanemaru sets Taichi up! WHISKEY MIST into Kanemaru! Taichi hits the GEDO CLUTCH, but Kanemaru really can’t count now!
Taichi lets off of Khan since there was no count to be had. Taichi drags Kanemaru up, but Khan WHISKEY BOTTLE SHOTS Taichi! IRON CLAW!! Kanemaru calls for the bell? He just hands the win to Khan without counting, so now we’re all tied up!
Khan: 1; Taichi: 1
Kanemaru has fulfilled the contract, Khan gives him the envelope of money. Khan even makes sure we all see how many thousands that is! Kanemaru heads out, is he going to party hard for the holidays? But that aside, it is time for the final fall!
Last Man Standing!
Taichi gets the mic first, and tells Khan that if that’s how Khan wants to do it, then Taichi will get down and dirty with Khan! No lumberjacks, no special guests, just the straight up ten count, and it can happen anywhere in Korakuen Hall! Khan says bet! The announcement is made for the official rule change, and now we have the final fall! Khan rushes Taichi on the outside, then whips him into railing! And we’re already going into the crowd! Khan throws Taicihi at English commentary, but big Hartley is a solid wall for Chris. Khan then drags Taichi up into the bleachers, and the fans clear out of the way!
Khan CHOKES Taichi with a chair, then lets off to clear chairs out of the way. The Young Lions try to help but Khan gets mad at them and pushes them aside. Khan drags Taichi up, knees him low, and then reels him in! But Taichi fights the sayanagi! Taichi SHOVES Khan, Khan falls to the floor but gets up, only for Taichi to CROSSBODY! Down goes Khan and Red Shoes hurries over. Both men are down but Taichi sits up. The count starts and Khan is still down at 5 of 10! Khan hurries to get up, and Taichi stomps him down! Taichi drags Khan back up into the bleachers, but we go the other way.
Taicih KICKS Khan down, Young Lions keep the fans back again, and Taichi drags Khan along. They keep moving through the crowd, and Taichi shoves Khan into chairs! Khan sputters but Taichi drags him up again. Taichi KNEES Khan, then drags him up. They go back down to floor level, and then Taichi aims at chairs! Taichi whips but Khan reverses and he BOWLS Taichi into chairs! Not quite a strike but he got a good number of those chairs! Khan pops the railing loose from the special corner piece, and he brings that corner piece over! Khan SMACKS Taichi with the steel! Taichi staggers away but he sits in a chair.
Khan starts folding chairs to stack them on the floor. Khan then uses one chair as a leash to drag Taichi over! Khan CLUBS Taichi, adds that one chair to the pile, and then snap suplexes Taichi onto the chairs! Taichi writhes but Khan rises up. Khan roars and the fans fire up! The count begins again but Taichi slowly sits up at 4. Taichi rises up, and he stands at 8! Khan brings Taichi around in a headlock, and they go to the orange bleachers! Khan uses the gate to smother Taichi, then they go up to the higher level! The fans fire up but then fans have to move! Khan KNEES and CLUBS Taichi, then whips Taichi at the exit door!
Taichi tumbles into the hallway! Khan drags Taichi back into the arena and uses the HITSUJIGOROSHI against the chairs! Taichi endures as Khan chokes him, then Khan lets him go! Red Shoes checks on Taichi, Taka coaches him, but the count begins. Khan sits in a chair to relax while he waits. Taichi sits up at 7, and stands at 9! Khan storms up on Taichi to CLUB him on the back! Khan headlocks Taichi, brings him to the other section, and he gets up close to the fans for photo ops. Khan then whips, but Taichi reverses, and Khan is sent into the wall! Taichi leaves Khan behind while the count begins again.
Khan sits up so Taichi KICKS him back down! Taichi drags Khan up, KICKS him again, and Khan falls to his knees. Taichi drags Khan up by his ponytail, and he goes close to the stairs that lead to the back! Khan fights the suplex, and for his life, but then he turns things around! Taichi fights the suplex, throws hands, and then DDTS Khan to the floor! Red Shoes checks both men, then starts the count. Taichi shakes out his arms and sits up at 4. Taichi stands at 6 but Khan is still down at 8! Khan drags himself up at 9! Taichi CLUBS Khan down, then brings him back up. Taichi brings Khan back to ground level, then snapmares him hard for a KICK!
Khan is in agony but Taichi drags him back up. But Khan RAMS Taichi into the railing! Taichi sputters while also sitting in a chair. Khan staggers away to ringside, and he goes looking under the ring. Khan brings out a trolly cart? Khan JAMS Taichi up using his own mic stand, then leaves him behind. Khan brings out a TABLE! Fans rally up as Khan puts the table on the trolly, then he staggers over to Taichi. Khan CLUBS Taichi down, then SHOVES him onto the table trolly combo. Khan has fans clear out, and then he SNOW PLOWS the chairs with Taichi on the cart!! The fans fire up as Khan stands over Taichi.
Khan drags Taichi up, and he brings the table along, too. Khan kicks chairs out of the way as he returns to the upper deck! Khan SMACKS Taichi off the edge, then he clears out space. Khan sets the table up, then he goes up to fetch Taichi. Khan JAMS Taichi up with a chair, then SMACKS him! Taichi writhes, fans rally, and Khan drags Taichi up. Khan vows to end this! IRON CLAW, and ELIMI- NO! Taichi fights Khan off! Taichi stumbles away through the crowd, but then grabs himself a chair. Taichi runs up to JAM Khan right in the face! Taichi then steals Khan’s idea to choke grip and CHOKE SLAM down through the table!!!
Khan writhes and the fans go nuts! Taichi hobbles around while Red Shoes counts Khan. Khan is still down at 5! Still down at 7! 9! KHAN GRABS RED SHOES’S HAND!! Khan survives, and though he has a couple bloody cuts on his back, he crawls his way to the ring. Taichi eggs Khan on and the fans are thunderous! Khan drags himself into the ring, Taichi runs, AX BOMBER!! The fans fire up and the count returns! Khan is still down at 5, stirs at 6, sits up at 7, and he rises at 8! So Taichi just runs up to AX BOMBER!! Khan drops to his knees, flops over, but he’s already pushing himself back up! Taichi runs again, AX BOMBER!!
Khan staggers around but he stays on his feet! Taichi says fine, AX- SAYANAGI!! Khan turns things around, and he AX BOMBERS in return!! Both men are down and the fans rally as hard as they can! The count is on both men, and Khan crawls for ropes at 5! Taichi slowly sits up at 6, and both men go to corners at 7! Red Shoes waits on them to rise up, and then Taichi fires up! Taichi runs up, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Neither man falls, so Taichi BOOTS! Khan BOOTS back! Taichi URAKENS! Khan MONGOLIAN CHOPS! Taichi SOBATS! Khan BODY BLOWS! Both men drop to knees, but they also grab at each other.
The fans rally as Khan and Taichi slowly rise. They are forehead to forehead, and then Taichi AX BOMBERS! Khan drops to his knees, Taichi BUZZSAWS, but Khan blocks it! Khan ROCKS Taichi with a right! And then Khan reels Taichi in, but Taichi Alabama Lifts! BLACK- NO, Khan fights into a GUILLOTINE! Taichi is stuck in the body scissors!! Taichi flails, even taps out, but that’s not how Last Man Standing works! Khan squeezes tighter and tighter, Taichi fades, and Red Shoes checks! Khan lets Taichi go and the count begins! Khan rises at 6, and Taichi is somehow up at 9!! So Khan clamps on an IRON CLAW!
Khan lifts Taichi, but Taichi slips free! Taichi shoves Khan and ROCKS him! DANGEROUS SAIDO!! But Khan is staggering to his feet?! Khan goes to a corner, flounders along ropes, but he isn’t down yet! The fans rally hard while both men fight to their feet! SUPERMAN PUNCH from Khan! PELE from Taichi! Both men are down again! Red Shoes starts the count on them both, and the fans rally even harder! Taichi is up at 7! Khan grabs Red Shoes at 9 again!! Taichi roars, Korakuen is with him, and he powers up! TENSHI JUJI- NO!! Khan blocks, and he hooks Taichi! Taichi CLUBS away on Khan, but Khan still lifts! ULTIMATE ELIMINATOR!!
Both men are down again and the fans rally as hard as they can! The count is on both men, and they’re both down at 5! At 7! 9! Khan pushes up, but he FLOPS back down!! DOUBLE TEN! IT’S A DRAW!! What does that mean for the belt!? Red Shoes goes out to talk with Abe-san, and then the announcement is made. In the end, with it being 1-1-1, a true draw, it all goes to KHAN!
Winner: Great-O-Khan, by pinfall (DEFINITIVE 2024 KOPW Champion)
Khan flips Taichi off, one last insult added on top. Khan is given the belt back, but Taichi grabs his trophy. Taichi steps up to Khan, and gives him the trophy, saying it is rightfully his now. Taichi shows Khan that respect, and Khan returns it with a handshake. Khan “retires” Taichi from KOPW, what will the Holy Emperor look to do in 2025?
As for Khan, he grabs the mic, and he asks Taichi to wait a moment. “You served this title for three years. We will honor your glory!” The fans applaud that, and Khan asks the previous champion to come closer. No, closer. The fans cheer Taichi on as he steps closer to ringside. Khan says Taichi served this title well, so here is his reward. Khan is giving the trophy back? Taichi says no, he gave that to Khan out of respect. Khan says to Taichi and to everyone to listen well. “We are the last KOPW Champion!” Everyone is a bit surprised to hear that.
Khan says, “As an alternative, on January 4th in the Tokyo Dome… as THE last KOPW Champion, We demand that the January 4th match determine the next IWGP World Heavyweight Championship challenger!” The fans are really intrigued by that idea! Khan throws down the belt, and Chris makes sure English speakers understand what Khan is suggesting. The New Japan Ranbo determining a #1 contender? Khan says that these are the words of the final KOPW Champion, The Great-O-Khan! “HAIL US, PEASANTS!” A New Year, a new era? Will Khan’s revolution bring glory to the United Empire?
My Thoughts:
A very good night for Road to Tokyo Dome, though I did skip a lot just because I didn’t have a lot of time today. But luckily I was skimming through, or I would’ve missed ELP’s great return. Congratulations on him beating cancer, and I like that they’re adding him to the NJPW World Television Championship match. It makes sense given ELP’s beef with the House of Torture, and honestly, why not just have ELP win? Not even so much for getting over cancer (though kind of that, too) but because fans love ELP and it’d help him solidify his singles run with Hikuleo long gone for WWE.
Really good stuff in the other tune-up matches, such as #DespeWado winning and the chaotic end to the Fatal 4 Way. Eagles won to help him and Fujita have momentum, but there is still more to the Road to Tokyo Dome first. Honestly that tag Fatal 4 could really go any which way they want so I’m not sure how the go-home math would even work. And Gedo of course took the loss against LIJ. Yota Tsuji is aiming for David Finlay and the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship, but who knows how things go before we get to WrestleKingdom.
Very good tag match from Shota & Tanahashi VS ZSJ & Fujita, and it was technically a surprise for Tanahashi to take the loss. This works on many levels, as Tanahashi should be figuratively on the ropes going into his match with Evil, and this gives Fujita equal momentum alongside Eagles. And then great main event, Khan and Taichi really went the distance with this one. And it all makes sense after Khan reveals this is the end of the KOPW Division. Khan wants to make the New Japan Ranbo to basically be the Royal Rumble and that is pretty cool. I think they could keep the belt to represent that contender’s status the same as the G1 Climax having a briefcase, because that KOPW belt actually looks pretty nice.
My Score: 8.8/10
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Rockin’ around the Christmas Collision!
The Continental Classic continues on Christmas Collision, with crucial points on the line this close to AEW Worlds End! Who will finally take the lead in Gold League?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- AEW Continental Classic, Gold League: Will Ospreay VS Ricochet; Ricochet wins.
- Kris Statlander VS Penelope Ford; Kris wins.
- AEW Continental Classic, Blue League: Shelton Benjamin VS Daniel Garcia; Garcia wins.
- AEW Continental Classic, Blue League: Mark Briscoe VS The Beast Mortos; Briscoe wins.
- AEW Continental Classic, Gold League: Darby Allin VS Claudio Castagnoli; Claudio wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Here are the current Continental Classic Gold League standings!
Claudio Castagnoli: 2-1, 6 points
Will Ospreay: 2-1, 6 points
Ricochet: 2-1, 6 points
Darby Allin: 2-1, 6 points
Brody King: 2-2, 6 points
Komander: 0-4, 0 points [ELIMINATED]
Here are the current Continental Classic Blue League standings!
Kyle Fletcher: 3-1, 9 points
Kazuchika Okada: 2-1-1, 7 points
Mark Briscoe: 2-2, 6 points
Shelton Benjamin: 2-1, 6 points
Daniel Garcia: 1-1-1, 4 points
The Beast Mortos: 0-4, 0 points [ELIMINATED]
Ian Riccaboni is in the ring.
He has Big Boom AJ & Big Justice with him in the Hammerstein Ballroom, and yes, they’re ready to bring the BOOM~! They’re ready to watch the action tonight, and even the final face-to-face of MJF and Adam Cole. AJ says if MJF is gonna bring the doom, then you know he and Big Justice will bring the BOOM~! But tonight, their guy, Adam Cole will bring the BOOM~ too! And of course we have big Continental Classic action! Daniel Garcia VS Shelton Benjamin in a critical showdown, and while Shelton is tough, Garcia is going to bring the BOOM~! Plus, Mark Briscoe battles The Beast Mortos! The Chicken is their guy, time to bring the BOOM~!
In Gold League, we have Darby Allin VS Claudio Castagnoli, and the Swiss Superman is a DOOM~! Let’s go, Darby, bring that BOOM~! And then a match everyone wants to see, the fireworks rematch of Will Ospreay VS Ricochet! If you’re a fan of high-flying wrestling, this is the right night to be right here in AEW! Ricochet and their guy, Ospreay, will bring the BOOM~! But speaking of, that match is up first! The Aerial Assassin joins AJ & Big Justice in giving a BOOM~, but will Ricochet make sure tonight is #OuttaThisWorld?
AEW Continental Classic, Gold League: Will Ospreay VS Ricochet!
Wait, are the fans throwing white streamers or is that… No, yeah, it’s toilet paper! Ospreay laughs at the fans basically calling Ricochet crap. Ricochet throws the toilet paper back! The bell rings and we’re on the clock. The fans fire up for Ospreay as he and Ricochet circle. The fans also sing, “F HIM UP, OSPREAY, F HIM UP!” Ricochet shrugs that off, he and Ospreay tie up, and then Ricochet rolls. Ospreay shoots in, waistlocks, but Ricochet switches. They go around, Ricochet gator rolls with Ospreay, then floats to a headlock. Ricochet wrenches, hammerlocks then headlocks again. Ospreay powers up and out, Ricochet runs him over, but Ospreay kips up!
The fans cheer and Ospreay smiles as he and Ricochet reset. They tie up, go around, and Ricochet wrenches to a wristlock. Ospreay rolls, wrenches and wristlocks, but Ricochet spins and wrenches to hammerlock. Ospreay reaches back, headlocks and hits a takeover. Ricochet rolls to a cover, TWO! Ospreay holds onto the headlock but Ricochet powers up and out. Ospreay runs Ricochet over, Ricochet bails out, and then Ospreay handsprings to fake Ricochet out! The fans cheer as Ospreay superhero lands out, and Ricochet is annoyed. Ospreay holds ropes open for Ricochet, but Ricochet goes around the way to step in on his own.
The fans boo Ricochet being a bad sport but Ricochet ignores that. Ospreay and Ricochet knuckle lock, then Ricochet kicks low! And CHOPS! Ricochet whips, Ospreay reverses, but Ricochet rolls off Ospreay’s back! Things keep moving, Ospreay avoids the handspring to then duck ‘n’ dodges and RANA! But Ricochet handsprings through! The fans fire up, and Ospreay arm-drags Ricochet down! The fans cheer while Ricochet endures the grind. Ricochet fights up and puts Ospreay on ropes. The ref counts, Ricochet and Ospreay slowly let g o, and Ricochet SLAPS Ospreay! Ospreay CHOPS Ricochet!
Ospreay takes a swing, Ricochet ducks under to roll back and RANA! But now Ospreay handsprings through! Ricochet dodges to waistlock but Ospreay bucks the O’Conner. Ricochet arm-drags Ospreay down, but Ospreay headscissors back! Ricochet pops free but Ospreay arm-drags! Ricochet headscissors, Ospreay pops free, and Ospreay handsprings, but Ricochet catches him! Ricochet then THROWS Ospreay into the Tree of Woe, and Ospreay falls down! The fans boo while Ospreay bails out, but Ricochet FOSBURY FLOPS! The fans boo but Ricochet takes the toilet paper to wipe himself, then he SMOTHERS Ospreay with it!
The fans boo that literally disgusting act of disrespect, but Collision goes picture in picture.
Ricochet taunts the fans, then drags Ospreay up. Ricochet puts Ospreay in, soaks up more heat, then KNEE-BOARD SENTONS! Ricochet swaggers to taunt the fans more, then he goes back to Ospreay. Cover, ONE!! Another cover, TWO! Ricochet taunts the fans more, then goes back for Ospreay. Ricochet stands Ospreay up to CHOP, and Ospreay goes to a corner. Ricochet RAMS into Ospreay, RAMS him again, then snapmares to UPPERCUT in the back! Cover, TWO! Ospreay stays in this but Ricochet drags him into a motorcycle stretch. Ospreay endures while Ricochet digs a knee into the back. Ospreay fights up, fights with elbows, then runs, but into a DROPKICK!
Ospreay is down in a daze but Ricochet has to shake out the stars in his own head. Ricochet covers, ONE! Ospreay then uses that one to flip off Ricochet. Ricochet RAMS Ospreay in the back! Ricochet then clamps on with a chinlock, and he digs his knee into Ospreay’s back. Ospreay endures, even as Ricochet JAMS Ospreay. Collision returns to single picture as the fans rally for Ospreay again. Ospreay fires up, fires hands, but Ricochet RAMS him into a corner. Ricochet runs up, RAMS into Ospreay, then goes to the apron. Ospreay takes a swing but Ricochet dodges and gets around him to GERMAN SUPLEX! Ospreay lands out!
Ospreay runs, handsprings, NEURALIZER KICK! The fans fire up while both men are down! Ospreay goes to the apron, takes aim, and he springboards to PIP PIP CHEERIO! Down goes Ricochet, Ospreay covers, TWO! Ospreay stays focused and the fans rally up. Ospreay drags Ricochet up, CHOPS him, then CHOPS him again! Ricochet staggers, Ospreay runs, but Ricochet TIGER WALL KICKS! Forearm, SOBAT, and Ricochet runs, but into a POP-UP, and STYLES- NO, Ricochet sits up, slips free, and he underhooks Ospreay for a FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Ospreay survives but Ricochet goes up.
Ricochet has to double clutch, the fans let him hear it, but Ricochet still MOONSAULTS! Ricochet lands out as Ospreay moves, and Ospreay runs up, but into an ELBOW! Ricochet handsprings, but into a pop-up, Electric Chair, spin around, STYLES CLASH!! Cover, TWO!! Ricochet survives and Ospreay is surprised. Ospreay pulls on the elbow pad and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Ospreay aims, but Ricochet bails out! The fans boo but Ospreay storms after Ricochet. They’re both on the apron and Ospreay goes up a corner. Ricochet anchors Ospreay first! Then Ricochet has the Electric Chair Lift!
Ospreay fights free, fights off a nelson, then he KICKS Ricochet! Ospreay runs, but into a pop-up APRON DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! The fans chant “You Still Suck!” but Ricochet adds a SHOOTING STAR PRESS! Ricochet puts Ospreay in, then springboards to 450 SPLASH! Cover, TWO!! Ospreay survives, but then Ricochet AX KICKS! Dragon sleeper, inverted suplex, VERTIGO! Cover, TWO!? Ospreay survives and Ricochet is shocked! Ricochet snarls and he aims from a corner. The fans rally for Ospreay but Ricochet loads up. SPIRIT- NO, Ospreay ducks under! Ospreay gets up, Ricochet blocks a kick!
Ricochet V-TRIGGERS, then he reels Ospreay in! But Ospreay fights out of the bomb, but then Ricochet returns the favor! Ricochet suplexes, into STUN DOG MILLIONAIRE! Ospreay springboards for the OSC- CUTTER FROM RICOCHET!! Ricochet hurries to get Ospreay up, powerbomb into fireman’s carry, DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! SPIRIT- HIDDEN BLADE!! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous! Ospreay and Ricochet both slowly sit up and the fans rally as hard as ever. Ricochet and Ospreay stare down, talk a bit of trash, then stand up. Ospreay draws a line in the sand and dares Ricochet to step up.
Ricochet steps right up, they stand toe to toe, literally! They start firing forearms! The fans cheer Ospreay, boo Ricochet, and Ricochet wobbles! But then Ricochet comes back with forearm after forearm! Ospreay wobbles, but he grins as he rises and roars! Ospreay fires a flurry on Ricochet, then ROCKS him! Ricochet flops over, Ospreay hauls him up! But Ricochet grabs at the ref! Ospreay kicks Ricochet’s arm away, but then Ricochet RAMS Ospreay into the ref! The fans boo but then Ricochet hurries to HOOK KICK! And VERTI- NO, Ospreay slips free to underhook! STORM BREAKER! Cover, but the ref is down!
The fans count, Ospreay would’ve won twice over! Ospreay calls to the ref, the ref sputters around, and Ospreay goes up. But then Ricochet kicks the ref into ropes! Ospreay gets tripped up and the fans boo more! Ospreay is confused as to what happened, but SPIRIT GUN hits the mark!! Cover, RICOCHET WINS!
Winner: Ricochet, by pinfall (gains 3 points; Ospreay earns 0)
The One & Only got away with murder, but there’s nothing that can be done now! Ricochet has NINE points, will he be headed to Worlds End?
Adam Cole heads to the ring!
The fans cheer as the Panama City Playboy returns to the Hammerstein Ballroom, and yes, they join in for the “BOOM~!” and the “ADAM COLE, BAYBAY~!” Cole grabs a mic, but he keeps his eyes on the ramp. That’s because we all know who’s next. MJF makes his entrance, but with a handful of security guards in front of him first. And not even AEW security, that’s his own personal security. MJF grabs a mic and has them cut his music. The fans boo but MJF tells them, “If I wanted your help, I’d ask for it. Sit down and shut up.” The fans tell MJF to STFU, but MJF shrugs that off.
MJF tells Cole that MJF is frustrated. It’s because for the past few months, MJF has had to listen to Cole say MJF is Cole’s biggest enemy! If memory serves, and MJF’s memory always does because unlike the fans here, he isn’t a complete moron… Didn’t Cole turn on MJF? But then does Cole realize he has bigger enemies out there? Like spray tan, cracks in the floor, gusts of win, and maybe… a cavity. Because last MJF heard, Cole’s dentist isn’t seeing him anymore. Cole was already staring daggers into MJF, but now he’s pissed. MJF has Cole calm down, and he tells the fans to shut up so he can shoot straight.
When MJF was the longest-reigning and greatest AEW World Champion of all time, Cole was nothing more than MJF’s cute little sidekick. That ate Cole up inside. Cole wanted to be MJF. Cole wanted #TripleB. But the sad truth is, Cole had many opportunities to win the title before MJF got anywhere near it. It’s almost like when it comes to Cole being elite enough to become world champion, just like his “s*itty little ankle,” Cole blows it. MJF laughs at his own joke, and then tells the fans he is talking, it is not that complicated. But this is why MJF doesn’t buy the hogwash that Cole turned on MJF because MJF would turn on Cole first.
Cole turned because he, like all these shmucks, is jealous of MJF. And who can blame Cole? MJF is rich, handsome, funny, entertaining, and then look at Cole. For crying out loud, Cole used to be ADAM COLE BAYBAY. Now, he’s just a crack baby! Cole asks if MJF is done. Was that the last line? Because it felt like MJF practiced that for two weeks in front of a mirror. But MJF killed it, really. Cole could come back with childish comments to hurt MJF’s feelings, but he won’t. Cole could mention MJF has had two surgeries on that fake head of hair of his while only in his 20s, which is hilarious, but he won’t.
Cole could talk about how MJF pulled some strings to get his girlfriend hired, like the real politician he is, but Cole won’t go there. Cole could talk about how every single time MJF enters a room, everyone waits for him to leave because he is loud, obnoxious and annoying as hell. But Cole won’t go there. Because Cole is not like MJF. They are nothing alike. That is why the friendship was ruined. Because, MJF, the truth is you say Cole is a failure, but in virtually every wrestling company Cole has worked for, he is the longest-reigning champion in so many!
In this very building, Cole bled BUCKETS against Kyle O’Reilly, wanting to prove he was one of the best in the world, and that is exactly what he did! Does Cole have regrets? Sure. Are there things Cole wishes he could take back? Absolutely. But Cole does NOT regret turning on MJF. The only reason it drives MJF insane is because Cole beat MJF to it. That’s MJF 101: Get close to someone, then turn on them. It’s what MJF does. Cole just did it better than MJF, and MJF knows it.
But Cole has been thinking, trying to understand what’s going on in MJF’s head, and he finally figured it out. MJF is terrified of having anyone close to him, because he feels it is a weakness. That hit a chord? Because not only does MJF act like a child, he thinks like a child! MJF knows in his heart that he was going to be the one to turn on Cole first! DAMN RIGHT HE WAS!!! MJF realizes he let the cat out of the bag. MJF says congrats, Cole, he solved the mystery! A regular Scooby-Doo! Great job, Adam.
But you want the truth? Here it is. The fact of the matter is, last year at Worlds End, MJF had every intention on stabbing Cole in the back that night. Cole just got lucky. When #BetterThanYouBaybay started, MJF didn’t give a damn about Cole. Cole was nothing more than a pawn. But MJF will admit, he did eventually start to care. For the first time in MJF’s life, he cared about someone else. Fans mockingly go, “Aww…” But MJF says that is just when Cole became a liability. And since Cole’s “a fragile little freak,” him jumping off that ramp and exploding his ankle made him a distraction!
Distractions, liabilities, emotions, there are no room for those when all you should be concerned with is maintaining the world championship! But Cole doesn’t get it, does he? Last year was a fluke. Cole ain’t the Devil, he just beat the Devil to it. But this year, Worlds End, December 28th, the same show where Cole tried to end MJF’s world, MJF ENDS Cole!! MJF throws down the mic and the fans are torn. Cole smirks and says MJF ends things then? Well, how about Cole ends this? COLE DECKS MJF! The guards rush in, but Cole fights them off! MJF sends more but Cole SUPERKICSK! And SUPERKICKS! And SUPERKICKS!
But then MJF LOW BLOWS Cole! MJF tells the fans to shut up! MJF takes out the Dynamite Diamond Ring! But then The Kingdom rushes out here! MJF runs away from Matt Taven & Mike Bennett, but he vows this ends at Worlds End. We have one week left, is that the last week Cole has in AEW? Or will MJF finally lose the one thing he has left in that diamond ring?
Backstage interview with Kris Statlander.
Lexy Nair is with the #BornAgainKristen and brings up her trying to make amends with Willow Nightingale last night, as well as making the save when Harley Cameron & Penelope Ford were beating Willow up. Kris says what she and Willow have to discuss is between them. But as far as her and Penelope go, they’ve got a lot of history, and if Ford wants a fight, Kris will give her a fight. Then speaking of history, Kris still has her eyes set on the TBS Championship, can she tells us more on that?
Kris says she looked back on 2024 and she had a downward spiral that started with losing that title. Maybe if she wins it back, Kris will right her wrongs. On that note, Mercedes Mone, you don’t have an opponent for Worlds End so here Kris is. Let her know when you’re ready for round two. Kris heads out, will she prove to everyone that she is still the Galaxy’s Greatest?
Backstage interview with Orange Cassidy.
AEW returns and Lexy is now with Freshly Squeezed. In exactly one week, he will compete against three other men for the AEW World Championship. There are a lot of combustible elements at play, and Cassidy says yeah, we saw that on Dynamite. Jay White, Hangman Page and Cassidy can’t exactly have a conversation. So really, Cassidy wants them to listen. “Between now and Worlds End, Jon Moxley can run and hide. He can hide behind his goons, he can run away in a pickup truck. But when that bell rings in seven days, he has nowhere to go. He will be in the ring with us. Us three. And you both know that we need to remove Jon Moxley from the equation.
“We can. We’ve done it. And after that, us three, we can fight for the AEW World Championship and one of us will become the AEW World Champion. Just something to think about. See you guys on Dynamite.” Cassidy is ready to remove the Maniac from the throne, but will the Switchblade and Cowboy listen to reason?
Kris Statlander VS Penelope Ford!
As Kris just said, she’s calling out The CEO in hopes of one more TBS Championship match. But will the Superbad Girl be more like the Grinch for Kris this Christmas?
The bell rings and the fans rally as Kris circles with Ford. They tie up, Kris powers Ford to a corner, then throws Ford back into the corner! The ref counts, Kris lets off, but Ford shoves her! Kris ROCKS Ford, TOSSES her, then runs up on her. Kris whips, drops down, then hurdles over. Kris CLOBBERS Ford and the fans fire up as she flexes. Kris drags Ford up, reels her in, and suplexes, and she holds Ford up! The fans cheer and Kris goes all the way to TEN, but Ford slips into a SLEEPER! Kris pries the hold open and she brings Ford around for another suplex! The fans fire up as Kris holds Ford up for five before the SLAM! Cover, TWO!
Kris drags Ford up, whips her to the corner, but Ford goes up, only for Kris to Electric Chair Lift! Kris climbs, Ford fights with fists, and she shoves Kris down! Ford steadies herself, then hits a FLYING BLOCKBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Ford is frustrated but she storms up on Kris. Ford bumps Kris off buckles but the fans rally behind Kris. Ford stomps a mudhole, but she lets off as the ref counts. Kris goes to the apron, but Ford jumps up to drop KNEES on her! The fans boo but Ford soaks up the heat, and Collision goes picture in picture.
Ford brings Kris around to THROW her into railing! Ford soaks up more heat, then drags Kris up and RAMS her into the apron! Ford refreshes the count, then stalks Kris around the way. Ford whips Kris into the steel steps! Kris falls over in a heap but Ford drags her up into the ring. Ford covers, TWO! Kris stays in this but Ford kicks her around. Ford CHOKES Kris on the ropes, thrashes around, but lets off as the ref counts. Ford drags Kris up and whips her to ropes, then LARIATS as Collision goes to break.
Christmas Collision returns and Ford CHOKES Kris on the ropes again! The ref counts, Ford lets off and Kris sputters to the apron. Ford runs and goes up, up, and KNEE DROPS on only apron! Kris then SHOTGUNS Ford off the apron! The fans fire up and Kris brings Ford up, to THROW into railing! Kris puts Ford in the ring, the fans fire up, but Ford kicks low. Ford reels Kris in, but Kris suplexes, FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Ford flounders to a corner but Kris has the fans rallying behind her. Kris runs up to UPPERCUT! Kris goes side to side but Ford dodges the knee! Ford hits a FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO!
Ford wasn’t quite perfect there but she watches Kris go to a corner. Ford runs corner to corner, handsprings, but Kris catches her! The fans fire up as Kris GERMAN SUPELXES, but Ford lands out! but Kris goes Matrix to dodge! So does Ford! STUNNER! Ford runs, Kris does her best to follow, but Ford hops up for a POISON-RANA! Cover, TWO!! Kris survives and the fans fire up! Ford is beside herself, but she drags Kris to a drop zone. Ford goes up top, and MOONSAULTS BUT FLOPS as Kris moves! Kris hurries to deadlift GERMAN SUPLEX! And then GERMAN SUPLEX again! The fans fire up as Kris scoops to tuck Ford in! STATURDAY NIGHT FEVER! Cover, Kris wins!
Winner: Kris Statlander, by pinfall
Ford gave Kris quite the fight, but Kris came out on top! Wait, here comes Mone! Kris did call the CEO out, so Santa Mone says, “Ho, ho, ho ho ho! New York Citaaaay~! Please say hello to your C E O! Kris, after the year I’ve been having, I was planning on taking Worlds End off. I was planning on going to the Ritz in Boston.” The fans boo Boston, but Mone says since it’s the holidays, Mone feels like being nice. She already beat Kris once anyway, so she’ll just beat her twice! At Worlds End, you see that money changes everything, because Mone is the greatest TBS Champion of all time!
The challenge has been accepted, and Mone is looking to be busy before the New Year. Will Kris make her regret it?
Big Boom AJ & Big Justice return to the ring.
They’re getting Christmas Collision ready to bring the BOOM, but out comes Chris Jericho, who is still ROH World Champion after overcoming Matt Cardona last night at Final Battle. And he has Bryan Keith & “Big Bill” Morrissey with him as he asks if AJ has a permit for being here tonight. Did they talk with Mayor DeBlasio? Because they certainly didn’t run this past Jericho. Do they know who he is? Big Justice says yeah, he knows! “You’re a JACKASS!” Jericho is taken aback, but the fans agree with Justice. The Bad Apple says this is why dumbass kids should be sitting and not heard. Jericho says yeah!
And if being a jackass means he’s the King of New York, then Jericho’s the biggest jackass! And besides, Jericho talks for everyone here saying we do not want AJ & Justice here! The fans boo, they disagree with Jericho. But Jericho says they don’t even have Costcos in New York! New Yorkers shop at bodegas. Fans are torn, because they kind of agree. Jericho says his favorite is the Walgreens a few blocks over in Flushing. And speaking of Flushing, that’s where AJ & Justice belong: in the toilet! This is the Hammerstein Ballroom, the House that Jericho built! The fans boo that, it’s the House that Hardcore built.
But Jericho says there’s no time for goofy gimmicks like BOOM~, or bandit masks, or scissoring! Scissor me, Bad Apple~! But then wait! The Acclaimed is here! Well, Anthony Bowens is, at least. Bowens pushes past The Learning Tree and he joins AJ & Justice in the ring. Bowens has the music cut, and he tells Jericho that he doesn’t get why Scissor King is catching strays, but you caught his attention. Jericho is trying to intimidate a man in a walking boot and an 11 year old child while spouting nonsense about being the King of New York. Why doesn’t Jericho do what he has asked so many others in the past: SHUT THE HELL UP!
The fans cheer but Big Bill says, “As the Learning Tree always says, when a man tries to silence another man, he’s probably afraid of the truth.” The fans do cheer Big Bill because he is from New York. Bowens says he has no idea what that means, Bill. But he does know we’re live on TNT, Christmas Collision, Hammerstein Ballroom, New York City! So Chris, why not walk your ass to this ring and get it whipped by the Scissor King?! Jericho says if Bowens wants him to do that, then not tonight. Jericho waves bye, but AJ says hold on, listen up. We know Jericho is running scared, but we know at some point, Bowens will get to bring the-
Bowens stops the Boom? Because he wants to scissor! AJ says okay, and they SCISSOR BOOM~! But is that true? Will Anthony Bowens be the one to tear down the Learning Tree and be a champion?
Backstage interview with The Vendetta.
Lexy is now with Deonna Purrazzo & Taya Valkyrie, and they’ve got a hot streak going. Deonna’s message last week was ominous, but who was it for? Taya says there are so many options. Everyone deserves a slice of The Vendetta. There’s Mercedes, Mariah, Toni Storm, even Lexy could get some, so watch your back. Speaking of Toni, she stumbles in and apologizes for interrupting. She just wants to say hi to everyone, hello. Oh, Deonna, a pleasure. Deonna says she knows who Toni is. R-Really? So cool! Taya says she’ll make a guess: Toni has a tattoo on her leg, a little duck with a knife through it.
Wow, how’d Taya know? Deonna says no no no, she is not doing this again. She does not get what sick crap Toni’s up to, but she is already done with it. So for Dynamite’s Miracle on 34th Street, Toni VS Taya! Taya says she’ll make Toni forget everything! Toni nervously thanks The Vendetta, and says this is a big opportunity to face someone like Taya. Toni leaves, Deonna and Taya sigh, and Lexy has no idea what to say. Is Toni’s mind unraveling before our eyes? Or is there still a bit of Timeless inside Toni Time?
AEW Continental Classic, Blue League: Shelton Benjamin VS Daniel Garcia!
This showdown was inevitable, but it’s even more fitting after The Standard of Excellence beat up the TNT Champion just because he stood up to the Hurt Syndicate. Will Shelton continue to bring the pain? Or will he not survive Red Death?
The bell rings and Garcia goes right at Shelton! Garcia fires hands but Shelton RAMS him into the corner! Shelton fires hands but Garcia turns things around to fire more shots! The ref counts, Shelton shoves Garcia back, but Garcia runs up to fire hands! Shelton shoves Garcia again, but Garcia gets under the lariat to waistlock. Shelton fights the lift but Garcia shoves him to SLAP! And CHOP! Shelton just grins and he picks Garcia up again! Shelton TOSSES Garcia away and Garcia goes to ropes. Shelton brings Garcia back up, scoops and SLAMS him, then brings him up again. Scoop SLAM! Shelton drags Garcia up and puts him in a corner.
Shelton whips corner to corner hard and Garcia falls! The fans sing, “We Hurt People!” Shelton drags Garcia around, stomps him around, then TOSSES Garcia out hard! Garcia sputters but Shelton storms outside. Shelton brings Garcia up but Garcia fires hands! Shelton RAMS Garcia into the apron, then railing, then back to the apron! And repeat! Garcia falls in a heap and the fans fire up. Shelton grins as he drags Garcia up, to then THROW into steel steps! Shelton leaves Garcia behind and the ring count climbs on Garcia. Garcia drags himself up at 7 but Shelton goes out after him again.
Shelton puts Garcia in the ring, then grabs at him. Garcia grabs ropes but Shelton stomps him. Shelton stands Garcia up to DECK him! The fans cheer but Shelton brings Garcia up again. Garcia fires a forearm, then he CHOPS! Shelton eggs Garcia on, so Garcia CHOPS! Shelton grins, Garcia CHOPS, but Shelton DECKS him again! The fans duel but Shelton whips Garcia to ropes, for a BIG backdrop! Garcia flounders and Collision goes picture in picture.
Shelton stalks Garcia to the ropes, brings him up and around, then puts him on other ropes so he can CHOKE him! The ref counts, Shelton steps off, and Garcia coughs and sputters to a corner. Shelton stalks behind Garcia, stands him up, and winds up to ROCK Garcia! Garcia flounders against ropes then falls to the mat! Shelton stands over Garcia, drags him up and puts him in the corner. Shelton throws hands and Garcia stumbles. Garcia falls, but Shelton stands on him. Shelton stomps Garcia, drags him up, but Garcia fires up! Garcia breaks free to fire CHOPS and forearms on repeat!
Garcia whips, Shelton reverses and Shelton BOOTS Garcia down! Cover, TWO! Shelton is still amused, and he clamps onto Garcia with a chinlock. Garcia endures as Shelton grinds him down, and Garcia fights up, only for Shelton to wrangle him back down! Shelton leans all his weight on the hold and he squeezes tight. Garcia fades but the fans rally, and Garcia gets a second wind! Garcia fights up, Christmas Colilsion returns to siongle cipture, and the fans duel as Garcia fires hands! Garcia runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, then SHOTGUNS SHelton down! The fans fire up and Garcia aims from a corner. Garcia runs up, Shelton gets around, GERMAN SUPLEX!
The fans are torn while Shelton storms around. Shelton waits on Garcia, waistlocks, GERMAN SUPLEX! Garcia flops around but Shelton stalks him to the ropes. Shelton goes to the apron, runs up, but Garcia BOOTS him! Garcia takes a swing, but Shelton waistlocks! Garcia holds ropes to fight off the suplex to the floor! Garcia stands up and elbows Shelton away! Then Garcia LEAPS, but into Shelton’s clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY to the floor! Garcia flounders, fans sing, “We Hurt People!” Shelton runs up but Garcia drop toeholds him into a chair! Shelton sputters and the fans rally up. Garcia makes Shelton take a seat, then rains down fists!
The fans count along and Garcia goes to nine, puts up the dukes, then hits TEN! Garcia gets space, runs back in, and he SHOTGUNS Shelton outta the chair! The fans are thunderous as Garcia goes back for Shelton. Garcia drags Shelton up but Shelton pushes him away. Shelton LARIATS Garcia, then rolls into the ring. The ring count starts, the fans help Garcia stand, and the fans fire up! Garcia hurries to the ring, but Shelton BOOTS, only for Garcia to block! DRAGON SCREW! Garcia runs, Shelton gets around, GERMAN SUPLEX! Even with a bad leg, Shelton has so much strength! Shelton storms up in the corner, but Garcia dodges!
Shelton’s knee hits buckles, and Garcia leg scissor rolls him! Garcia steps through for the DRAGON TAMER!! Shelton endures and the fans fire up! Garcia sits on the hold, but Shelton powers up! Shelton powers out of the hold, has Garcia’s legs, and he turns Garcia over into a QUEEN ANGELITO STRETCH! Garcia endures, reaches out, and he army crawls his way forward! But Shelton drags Garcia back! Garcia cradles Shelton! TWO!! Shelton escapes, but Garcia BOOTS him! Shelton SUPERKICKS Garcia! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous! Shelton covers, TWO!! Garcia barely gets out of that and Shelton is furious!
“This is Awesome!” as Shelton looms over Garcia. Shelton drags Garcia up, but Garcia trips Shelton! Jackknife bridge, GARCIA WINS!!
Winner: Daniel Garcia, by pinfall (gains 3 points; Shelton earns 0)
A Christmas Collision miracle? Who knows! But Garcia is still alive in the C2, but Lashley snatches Garcia into a SLEEPER! The fans boo but MVP hands the pimp cane to Shelton! But here comes Mark Briscoe, and he has a chair! Security wants this to stop before it gets out of hand, and even producers get out here! But wait! Is that Swerve Strickland rushing in from the crowd?! It is! He goes right up top to SUPER SWERVE STOMP the Syndicate and security guards! Garcia gets free of the pile, Mark Briscoe is with him, and now the locker room hurries out here to stop this from getting worse!
The fans chant, “Whose House?” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” and Nana eventually hands the mic to Swerve. “Bobby FREAKIN’ Lashley! Didn’t I say I was gonna get my hands on you by the end of ’24? By the end of 2024, I said I was gonna get my hands on you, and that’s what I did, courtesy of the most dangerous man in AEW. Whose house?!” “SWERVE’S HOUSE!” Swerve is still aiming for Lashley’s head, will he and Lashley have it out at Worlds End?
AEW Continental Classic, Blue League: Mark Briscoe VS The Beast Mortos!
After getting a couple shockers, The Sussex County Chicken could easily jump up to the front of the block with one more! But will he #ManUp and bring down the menacing minotaur? Or will The Beast be a massive spoiler for Briscoe?
The bell rings and we’re on the clock again. The fans rally and duel while both men fire up. They RAM shoulders, and then fire forearms! The fans fire up as Mark gets the edge, but Mortos swings! Mark dodges to CHOP, then fire forearms! Mark ROCKS Mortos, whips, but Mortos reverses and SPLASHES Mark! Mortos runs but Mark follows to LARIAT! Mark runs, Mortos follows, but Mark dodges to CHOP! And CHOP! And forearm! And Mongolian Chop! Mark fires forearms against the ropes, then roars. Mark runs but Mortos follows to UPPERCUT! The fans fire up, Mortos runs but Mark follows to FOREARM!
Mark runs, Mortos follows, and he slingshots to hook and backslide, TWO! Mark trips Mortos to jackknife, TWO! Mortos gets around, hammerlock and cradle, TWO! Mark slips around to roll Mortos, TWO! Both men stand, both men dodge, and the fans cheer the standoff. The fans cheer “BOTH THESE GUYS! BOTH THESE GUYS!” as they reset. Mark and Mortos run up to RAM shoulders again! And again! Mortos is getting the better of this, and he CLOBBERS Mark! The fans cheer Mortos while Mark goes to ropes. Mortos runs in but Mark TOSSES him up and out! Mortos clutches a leg, stands up, but Mark runs!
Mortos slides in, dodges, and he SPEARS Mark! The fans fire up and Mortos roars while Collision goes picture in picture.
Mark rolls to a corner while Mortos headbutts buckles. Mortos then runs corner to corner to DROPKICK Mark! Mark sputters, Mortos drags him to a cover, TWO! Mark stays in this but Mortos drags him into a chinlock. Mark endures, even as Mortos leans on the hold. Mark fights up as the fans rally, and Mark fires body shots. Mortos THROWS Mark down! Mortos then CRANKS Mark’s neck, then KICKS him in the chest! Cover, TWO! Mark is still in this and he goes to ropes. Mortos storms up but Mark CHOPS! Mortos SMACKS Mark and Mark falls into a corner. Mortos stomps Mark, then digs his boots in!
The ref reprimands and counts, Mortos steps off, then Mortos snapmares Mark so he can step on Mark’s face! Then NECK TWIST! Cover, TWO! Mark stays in this and he goes back to ropes. Mortos waits on Mark to stand, then SMACKS him down! Mark dangles out of the ring in the ropes, but Mortos goes after a leg while Collision goes to break.
Christmas Collision returns and Mortos has Mark in a corner. Mortos whips corner to corner, then runs up to UPPERCUT, CHOP, and HEADBUTT! Mark staggers and the fans rally up for Mortos. Mortos brings down his kneepads, runs corner to corner, but Mark dodge! Mortos hits buckles then falls to the outside! The fans fire up as Mark then WRECKS Mortos with a dropkick! Mark builds speed and he DIVES, direct hit on Mortos! The fans fire up and Mark even hugs a few! Mark tosses a chair into the ring, and fans rally for #DEMBOYS. Mark sets the chair up, but Mortos anchors Mark’s legs! Mortos then SMACKS Mark!
Mortos drags Mark to the apron, Mark fires forearms. Mortos shoves Mark, but Mark fireman’s carries! Mortos fires elbows to get free! Mark REDNECK KUNG-FU UPPERCUTS! Then APRON GERMAN SUPLEXES! Mortos falls to the floor while the fans lose their minds! Mark rises up, takes aim, and he fires the fans up more. Mark goes up a corner, for a SUPER SKY TWISTER! The fans are thunderous and Mark high-fives the front row. Mark then goes back to the ring and builds speed! Mark uses the chair to FLY! Direct hit and Mark even lands on his feet! The fans fire up and Mark hurries to get Mortos back up.
Mark puts Mortos in the ring, “This is Awesome!” as Mark takes aim. FROGGY-BOW onto knees! Mortos saves himself there, and then roars! Mortos whips Mark, scoops him, and has the torture rack! BEAST BACKBREAKER! Then Mortos hauls Mark up for a POWER BREAKER!! The fans fire up for Mortos and he DISCUS- NO, Mark dodges, runs, but into a POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO!! Mark survives and the fans fire up again! Mortos snarls, hauls Mark up, and then scoops! But Mark slips free! Mark crane kicks, then underhooks! But Mortos backdrops free! Mark rises, Mortos runs, but into a fireman’s carry!
Mark hits a ROLLING DEATH VALLEY! Then Mark goes up the corner, and the fans fire up for the FROGGY-BOW!! Cover, TWO?!? Mortos survives but Mark shakes his head. Mark just goes back up top! Mortos sits up and roars! But Mark still FROGGY-BOWS!! And then he underhooks, lifts, JAY DRILLER!! Cover, Mark wins!
Winner: Mark Briscoe, by pinfall (gains 3 points; Mortos earns 0)
And with that, Mark is now even with Kyle Fletcher, who Mark already beat earlier on! That is all the difference between the one seed and the two seed, how will this final round shake out?
Julia Hart speaks.
“Jamie, Jamie, Jamie. I’m no coward. What you call tricks, I call advantages. I suggested that you watch your back. I gave you all the warnings. So I’m not understanding why you feel the need to call me classless and sneaky. I thought I was being more than reasonable. I know you’re strong, but are you smart? Are my ‘tricks’ too much for you? I guess we’ll find out January 1st, Fight for the Fallen. But remember: The House Always Wins.” The Princess of the Black Throne is ready, but will she learn Hayter Hits Hard?
Backstage interview with Mariah May.
Alex Marvez is with the AEW Women’s World Champion and says in one week’s time, it will be Mariah VS Thunder Rosa for the title, in a Tijuana Street Fight! Marvez notes that Mariah not only had some harsh words for Rosa, but for her father, as well. Mariah says, “Aw~, Papa Rosa is gonna be in the front row. Is that to watch the match? Or does Thunder need a new mami?” But speaking of Rosa, she RAMS Mariah right into the door! And dribbles her off it, too! Mariah pulls hair, Rosa tries to choke Mariah, and then Mariah shoves Rosa away. Mariah calls Rosa crazy, but Rosa says she’s not done with Mariah!
Rosa storms after Mariah into the hall, and then to the stage area! Mariah has made it to ringside, Nigel tries to warn her, but Rosa CLOBBERS Mariah! Rosa rains down fists, then stomps away! Rosa SMACKS Mariah off steel steps, then grabs a chair! Mariah sputters, but gets away before Rosa swings the chair! Security rushes out here for the third time tonight, and Rosa LEAPS! The cluster keeps her away from Mariah but fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT!” Rosa holds up the AEW Women’s World Championship, will she send the “Woman From Hell” back where she came from in order to have the gold again?
AEW Continental Classic, Gold League: Darby Allin VS Claudio Castagnoli!
While The Relentless One has been after each and every Death Rider, he gets one served up to him on a silver platter. But will Darby bring down the Swiss Superman before the final round? Or will Claudio crush Darby’s hopes and dreams this close to Christmas?
But before Claudio even gets in the ring, Darby DIVES out onto him! The fans fire up as Darby fires fast hands! Claudio gets away but Darby pursues, jumps on, and throws more hands! Claudio carries Darby up the ramp to then THROW him down! Darby writhes, Claudio drags him up, and Claudio gorilla presses! Darby slips free, goes to the entry, and then dodges Claudio to send him into the light truss! And then he shoves Claudio into it again! Claudio falls, and now Darby climbs up!? The fans fire up as Darby is up on the camera balcony! Darby SUPER CROSSBODIES Claudio down!
Claudio tumbles down the ramp and Darby sputters while fans lose their minds. The ref checks Darby, his fall was still really wicked. Claudio sits up in a daze as he’s now ringside, and somehow Darby pursues! They both get in the ring, the bell rings, and Darby runs up! But into a POP-UP UPPERCUT!! Cover, TWO!! Darby survives and Claudio is already frustrated. Claudio drags Darby by his legs, to GIANT SWING~! The fans count as Darby goes around and around, and Claudio goes past TEN, past FIFTEEN, past TWENTY, and all the way to THIRTY!! Darby flounders out of the ring while Collision goes picture in picture.
The ref goes out to check on Darby, and somehow he’s okay to continue. Claudio steps out to fetch Darby, and lift shim up with one hand! Claudio then gut wrenches and carries Darby, to SLAM him onto railing! And DUMP him down! Claudio drags Darby up again, gut wrenches again, and he TOSSES Darby onto the railing! Darby flops back down and clutches his lower back, but Claudio leaves him behind. The ring count begins but Darby sits up. Claudio goes out after him again, and brings him up to CHOP! Darby staggers away to a corner, Claudio storms up and CHOPS again! Darby flops down but Claudio looms over him.
Claudio gets space, runs up, and he UPPERCUTS Darby against railing! Darby stumbles away, Claudio goes to the ring, but Darby rolls in, just to roll back out. Darby earns himself some time, but then Claudio storms out after him. Darby hurries int he ring to get away, but Claudio is after him there, too. Claudio stands on Darby’s hands, then stomps them! Darby writhes, but Claudio stomps his hands more! Darby goes to a corner. Claudio stands him up and CHOPS! Claudio UPPERCUTS, CHOPS, and Christmas Collision returns to single picture. The fans duel, Darby fires hands, but Claudio UPPERCUTS!
Claudio whips, Darby springboards, COFFIN- NO, Claudio catches Darby! Darby fights free, runs, but Claudio runs up! Darby DUMPS Claudio, then runs to DIVE! Direct hit at the ramp! The fans fire up again and Darby puts Claudio in. Claudio rolls out the far side but Darby DIVES again! Claudio is sent into railing but Darby goes up a corner! The fans fire up for the SUPER COFFIN SPLASH! Direct hit and both men are down again. The ref starts the ring count, the fans rally up, and Darby refreshes the count. Darby LEAPS onto Claudio for a SLEEPER! Claudio goes to steel steps and he steps up, but Darby squeezes tight!
Claudio steps back down, and he runs into the timekeeper’s area! BACKPACK SENTON through the table! The fans lose their minds again while Claudio leaves Darby behind in the wreckage. Darby stirs, the ref starts another ring count, and Darby crawls. “This is Awesome!” as Darby leaps in at 7! Claudio runs but Darby slips around! O’Conner Roll, TWO, springboard and SPALSH! Cover, TWO! Ghost pin, TWO! Claudio is up, but Darby sunset flips! Claudio stays up, and DOUBLE STOMPS! Claudio deadlifts Darby to then TOSS him out of the ring! Darby hits apron on the way out and fans tell Claudio he’s sick!
Claudio goes out after Darby and drags him up again. Claudio scoops and then POSTS Darby! And POSTS him again! Claudio TOSSES Darby aside, rolls into the ring, but only to refresh the count. Claudio then drags Darby by a leg and brings him over. Claudio SWINGS Darby into steel steps!! Claudio puts Darby in the ring, stands him up, and runs to LARIAT! Darby flips through the air! Claudio covers, TWO!! Darby survives and Claudio is frustrated. The fans rally for Darby but Claudio rains down HAMMER ‘N’ ANVIL ELBOWS! Then Claudio tucks the arms, RICOLA- CODE RED!! Cover, TWO!! Claudio escapes in time!
The fans rally while both men are down again. Darby and Claudio slowly rise, and Ricochet watches, very amused as Darby is his next opponent in the round robin. Darby crawls to a corner, climbs up, but Claudio UPPERCUTS! Claudio HEADBUTTS Darby, then climbs up again. Claudio brings Darby up and suplexes, but Darby fights around! SUPER SCORPION DEATH DROP!! The fans are thunderous for “A E DUB! A E DUB!” as Darby rises up. Darby climbs to the very top, COFFION DROP onto knees! Claudio saves himself, then he hauls Darby up. Straitjacket and RICOLA~ BOMB!! Cover, TWO!?!?
Darby survives and shocks Claudio! Claudio argues with the ref but the count was fair! Darby’s just that tough! Claudio goes back to Darby and ripcords him into the RICOLA~ BOMB!! Cover, TWO!?!?! HOW?!? Claudio goes outside, and he brings out something from under the ring. He also has a chair! The ref takes the chair from Claudio, but Claudio has BRASS KNUCKLES! BRASS KNUCKLE PUNCH!!! Cover, CLAUDIO WINS!
Winner: Claudio Castagnoli, by pinfall (gains 3 points; Darby earns 0)
The Swiss Superman screws over Darby, but then he gets that chair back. But wait, Ospreay slides into the ring! And HE has the brass knuckles that Claudio tossed aside! Ospreay dares Claudio to do something, but Claudio simply leaves. Does this mean Ospreay’s ready to ride against the Death Riders with Darby? Or will we see a Miracle on 34th Street send Ospreay and Darby to Worlds End?
My Thoughts:
A great Collision here as the last one before Worlds End, and therefore a bit of a go-home in itself. While the continued feud of MJF and Cole has still been a bit clunky since they did the double turn, their faceoff did a good job addressing some of that. They got good digs at each other as always, and MJF snapping and revealing “the truth” was their big move to recover this story. We of course got a brawl, and good save by The Kingdom. It feels like MJF still finds a way to hold onto the diamond ring, but c’mon, how fitting is it for Cole to get a diamond.
Good bit with Toni Storm and The Vendetta, and Deonna’s reaction to Toni was great. Deonna is justified in thinking this is still an act from Toni, not a legitimate psychological problem, and Toni VS Taya will be good stuff. Good promo from Kris Statlander, good match from her and Penelope Ford, and of course a good win for Kris. Good promo from Mone to make Worlds End official, but as I’ve been saying, Mone is more likely to lose the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship as part of the big NJPW Tokyo Dome weekend. The irony is, Mina Shirakawa is her challenger and Mina shows up plenty in AEW, so I don’t know how that math is supposed to work.
Good promo from Mariah May as it also turned into a brawl with Thunder Rosa. As it stands, Rosa standing tall holding up the belt means she is NOT winning at Worlds End, but they could still give us a little more from Rosa and Mariah on Dynamite’s Christmas episode to turn the tables. Good promo from Julia Hart to respond to Jamie Hayter, they’ll have a good match. Good promo from Orange Cassidy to try and reason with Jay White and Hangman Page, but that’s all the more reason Moxley likely uses the challengers all against each other like he did on Wednesday. Though, it would be fun if they at least started the match all annihilating Moxley with their finishers, making us think it’ll work out in favor of “Team AEW.”
Good stuff with Big Boom AJ & Big Justice here tonight, both hyping up the show but also interacting with Jericho’s group and even Anthony Bowens. They’re adding some more foreshadowing to The Acclaimed breaking up, and I guess we’re supposed to see this as a positive move, Bowens feuding with Jericho. Unless Bowens is going to be the guy that dethrones Jericho for whatever ROH cable TV debut/return is planned, the Jericho Vortex strikes again. Bowens should be going for an AEW midcard title, but right now, those are all tied up what with the C2 going on and the International Championship being tied up in Worlds End and NJPW plans.
Speaking of the C2, great stuff with all the matches tonight. Shelton VS Garcia was great stuff, and while Garcia gets the win, they’re still giving us some set-up for a TNT Championship match of Garcia VS Shelton. Mark Briscoe of course made the save, but great surprise for Swerve to show up. Lashley VS Swerve for Worlds End just needs to be said, it already feels a given. All that brawling was also a good segue into Mark VS Mortos, and another great showing for Mortos, even in losing. But as Mark has already had all his matches and is at 9 points, Kyle doesn’t even need to win against Garcia, he just needs to draw so that Mark will be out, and Garcia with him.
While Ospreay VS Darby on Wednesday raised the bar, Ospreay VS Ricochet still had great stuff of its own. Plus, Ricochet is bringing out more of his Heel side what with using the ref, and Ricochet’s win puts the pressure on Ospreay for Christmas Dynamite. Now, no offense to Brody King, but I’m thinking Ospreay wins that to take one of the semifinal spots. Darby VS Claudio tonight was also great, but Darby doing his best Sting off the truss was not the best when he gets that whiplash on the floor. I really thought that match was going to be called for concussion protocol, but Darby’s weirdly indestructible.
Claudio still cheats this win so there’s more heat on the Death Riders and Darby is also behind the 8 ball. Ospreay making the save was good, we can definitely have another “Team AEW” VS Death Riders with Ospreay joining Darby and a couple others, but the way they did the order of matches, Claudio’s got a seemingly easy ride against Komander for Christmas. Though, how awesome would it be if Komander pulled off the spoiler? Or if they were really going to add some drama, they should create a situation where the Death Riders end up ringside, violating the Continental Rules of no cornermen and that disqualifies Claudio. Claudio misses out on the semifinals because of a technicality, sending Ospreay and maybe Ricochet to the semifinals.
My Score: 8.8/10
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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
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