Backlash is all gas, no brakes with it!

Jacob Fatu doesn’t just want the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, he NEEDS it! But will he get it? Or must he ACKNOWLEDGE Roman Reigns?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Seth Rollins VS Bron Breakker w/ Paul Heyman; Bron wins.
• WWE United States Championship: Trick Williams w/ Lil Yachty VS Sami Zayn; Trick wins and retains the title.
• The Miz & Kit Wilson VS Danhausen & Minihausen; Danhausen & Minihausen win.
• Asuka VS Iyo Sky; Iyo wins.
• WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Roman Reigns VS Jacob Fatu; Roman wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

It’s the Backlash Countdown Show!

Join Michael Cole, Corey Graves, Big E, and Peter Rosenberg in discussing, analyzing, and predicting all the action that’s about to go down in Tampa!

Retired Air Force Technical Sergeant Sonya Bryson-Kirksey sings the Star-Spangled Banner.

Tonight, at Backlash…

Just as the song says, Tampa, Florida heats up as WWE starts to cook. An Empress looks to teach The Genius a lesson. An Architect looks to tear down the Badass he shared his Vision with. A ginger snaps back at the lemon pepper steppers that stepped on his moment and took his title. A Very Nice, Very Evil Overlord is bringing someone, or something, to help him outshine the Hollywood A-Lister and his new protege. And a Samoan Werewolf doesn’t just want what the Tribal Chief has, he NEEDS it! But when you cook, you have to be careful not to get burned. Who serves and who eats their fill tonight at Backlash?

Seth Rollins VS Bron Breakker w/ Paul Heyman!

Tampa is ready to #BurnItDown, just as The Visionary, the Revolutionary, Seth Freakin’ Rollins, is ready to burn down the faction he created. But even with his Mortal Kombat inspired ring gear, will Rollins win this match? Or will it be the Unpredictable Badass that scores the fatality?

The bell rings and the fans bark as Bron runs up already! Rollins LEAPS the spear, Bron hits buckles, and then Rollins BOOTS him outside! Rollins hurries to DIVE! Direct hit at the ramp and Rollins fires off shots! Rollins throws Bron into barriers on one side, then the other, before putting him in the ring. Rollins LARIATS Bron up and out, then DIVES again! Bron hits desk then the floor, and the fans fire up as Rollins rains down more fists! The fans sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as Rollins stalks Bron. Rollins stands Bron up but Bron KNEES low! Bron ROCKS Rollins, brings him around, and THRWOS him over barriers!

The fans are torn but Rollins is right back up! Rollins LEAPS over barriers to tackle Bron! Rollins fires more hands, then chases Bron into the ring. Rollins goes up the corner, leaps at Bron, but Bron catches Rollins! Rollins fights but Bron BELLY2BELLY SUPLEXES Rollins up and out! The fans bark again while the ring count climbs. Bron goes out to ROCK Rollins, and fans duel as Bron stalks Rollins around the way. Bron KNEES Rollins again and again, then SMACKS him off the apron. Rollins CHOPS in return! And CHOPS again! But Bron TACKLES Rollins and rains down fists! Bron puts Rollins in the ring, then storms up in the corner.

Bron RAMS into Rollins, RAMS again, and again! The ref counts, Bron backs off, and he looms over Rollins. Bron brings Rollins up, Rollins fights the suplex, but Bron fires body shots. Bron suplexes high and hard, then covers, ONE! Rollins is tougher than that, and he pushes Bron as he goes to ropes. Bron storms up but Rollins throws hands! Bron gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans bark again while Rollins tumbles to a corner. Bron storms over to Rollins again, waistlocks, and GERMAN SUPLEXES again! Perhaps Bron is looking to inherit Suplex City, but then he clamps on a SLEEPER! Rollins fights around but Bron has the body scissors even!

The fans rally a Rollins fights up, then JAWBREAKERS free! The fans cheer while Heyman is worried. Rollins CHOPS Bron, then CHOPS again! The fans “WOO~” as Rollins CHOPS again. Rollins whips, Bron reverses, tilt-o-whirl BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Rollins is still tougher than that, but Bron clamps onto him again. Bron digs a knee into Rollins’ back while he bends Rollins back! The fans rally and duel, and Bron tells Rollins he should’ve just given The Vision a chance. Rollins just chose himself over everything else! Selfish piece of trash! Bron clamps on with a chinlock now and he squeezes tight.

Rollins endures, fights up, and fights around, to then hit a BIG back suplex! The fans cheer while both men are down. Rollins rises, he eggs Bron on, and he counter punches! And counter punches again! And again! Rollins fires hands, then whips, but Bron ducks ‘n’ dodges and builds up speed to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Rollins survives that 23 mile per hour collision, but Bron GERMAN SUPLEXES him again! And again! Rollins flounders, rises up, and staggers into another waistlock! GERMAN SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Then Rollins SLAPS Bron from below! Bron eggs Rollins on, Rollins SLAPS him again, so Bron grinds his forearm into Rollins’ face!

Bron drags Rollins up, shoves him to a corner, and RAMS into him! And RAMS him again! Bron hoists Rollins up top, climbs up to join him, but Rollins CLUBS away at Bron’s leg. Then Rollins BITES Bron’s forehead! Bron staggers back, but he’s right back up! BREAKKER STEINER! Cover, TWO! Rollins survives and Bron is beside himself! The fans duel harder now while Heyman coaches Bron up. Rollins rises up at the ropes, Bron brings him around, and Bron fires knee after knee. Bron TOSSES Rollins out, then takes his time going out the side. The fans bark and boo as Bron locks on target! Bron runs in, but Rollins SUPERKICKS first!!

The fans are fired up as both men are down on the outside! A standing count begins, both men are still down at 5 of 10, “This is Awesome!” We pass 7, both men rise at 8, and they lunge in at 9.5!! Rollins then LARIATS in a corner! The fans fire up as Rollins brings Bron up for short arm LARIAT after short arm LARIAT, but Bron stays on his feet! Rollins fires forearm after forearm and Bron finally kneels! The fans rally as Rollins runs, but Bron swings! Rollins ducks ‘n’ dodges to LARIAT again! Cover, TWO! Rollins hurries to take aim, Bron sits up, Rollins KNEES him down! Cover, TWO! Heyman is stunned as Bron manages to survive!

“This is Awesome!” as Rollins grabs Bron’s hands for wristlocks. Rollins unleashes Dragon Stomps on Bron’s face! Rollins then lines up the shot, blows a kiss to Heyman, CURB- NO, Bron blocks the stomp!! Bron then stands up, snarls, and he guzels Rollins for the gorilla press, GUT BUSTER DROP!! Then Bron goes to a corner, runs up, but into a BOOT! Rollins runs, slips through the lariat, but Bron dumps him down! STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Rollins’ counter didn’t quite work out and it almost cost him! Bron grins, he knows he has this “old dog” where he wants him. Bron puts Rollins in a corner, then climbs up.

Bron says it didn’t have to be like this. Bron rains down fists on Rollins while the fans count. He takes his time getting to five, only for Rollins to lift him from the corner! Rollins runs to BUCKLE BOMB! And then- LARIAT!! Bron turns things back around on Rollins again and the fans are thunderous! Rollins rolls out of the ring, hobbles around the way, but Bron goes out after him. Bron SMACKS Rollins off the desk, then grins as he goes to the apron. Bron lines it up, FLYING LARIAT onto and OVER the desk!! The fans bark while Heyman smiles as Bron just about wipes himself out with Rollins! The ring count is back, Bron drags Rollins up at 4 of 10.

Bron brings Rollins around the way, puts him in the ring at 8, then grins as he goes up the corner. But Rollins springs up to get him! SUPER DUPER PLEX! Then the roll through and- NO, Bron hits the FALCON ARROW first! Cover, TWO!! Rollins survives and Bron is in disbelief! The fans sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as they rally behind Rollins. Bron stands over Rollins, pie faces him, then eggs him on. Bron kicks Rollins to a corner, then RAMS into him! Bron puts Rollins up top, but Rollins fires body shots! Rollins then CLAWS Bron’s back! Bron drops down, but he snarls as he goes right back up! BREAKKER STEINER!

The fans rally as Bron and Rollins rise up. Bron runs up to fire hands, then he puts Rollins up again. Bron again goes up, up, and BREAKKER- NO!! Rollins manages to land out! The fans fire up for Rollins as Bron is shocked! Bron runs up, Rollins slips through to SUPERKICK! And SUPERKICK! And- NO, Bron blocks the kick, then guzels, but Rollins kicks again! Underhooks and PEDIGREE!! Rollins lines it up, CURB STOMP!! Heyman distracts from the apron! The fans boo as the Wise Man is saving his new golden boy. Rollins grins, goes outside, and brings out a chair! Rollins doesn’t even care about winning now, he just wants to do damage!

But wait, here comes The Vision! Rollins knows it, though! He JAMS Austin Theory, he JAMS Logan Paul, then SMACKS away on both! Rollins CURB STOMPS Theory! And he chases Logan off with that chair! Rollins hurries back to the ring, but Bron is locked on! SPEAR!! Cover, TWO?!?! Rollins survives and no one can believe it! Even Heyman can’t explain it! Bron tries to do the math but the fans just sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Bron brings the straps down, builds up speed again, but Rollins catches the spear into a PEDIGREE!!! Rollins hurries to reload, and he even goes up the corner! FLYING CURB- SPEAR!!!

Bron turns things around on Rollins again, and Heyman says finish it! Bron builds speed to SUPER SPEAR!!! Cover, Bron wins!!

Winner: Bron Breakker, by pinfall

Give the assist to the pawns, but Bron still scores the biggest win of his young career! Is this the end of it all for Seth Rollins? Will The Vision soon own the entire WWE Universe?

WWE United States Championship: Trick Williams w/ Lil Yachty VS Sami Zayn!

It is rather paradoxical that Hollywood Trick mocks #BigMatchSami while Sami tries to do the right thing, and yet the fans love one and not the other. For that matter, the entirety of the Gingerbread Man’s existence nearly drove Sami insane. But is this where the ginger truly snaps? Or will he #WhoopDatTrick and get this title back?

Cathy Kelley catches Trick Yachty Gang backstage, and brings up that Sami is feeling great tonight. Their response? Trick says Sami better quit lying! He’s been lying for weeks, saying he’s the veteran. But since Sami’s met Trick, Trick’s the one running hits. Trick’s the vet, this is Trick Willy’s World. All the games are over, and you’re gonna see that now. Let’s talk about it. With that, Trick makes his entrance, with all the fans singing along, “WHOOP DAT TRICK! WHOOP DAT TRICK!” The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who doesn’t just feels great, but IS great!

Tensions are already rising as Sami tries to get at Trick but Trick shoves him back! The ref has them back off, and the bell rings. Trick and Sami tie up, Trick powers Sami to a corner, and the ref counts. Sami turns things around, pie faces Trick, but backs off to then CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! The ref backs Sami off but Trick brushes that off to reset with Sami. They tie up again, Sami headlocks, but Trick powers up and out. Sami ducks ‘n’ dodges but Trick LEAPING LARIATS! Trick has Sami in the corner to CHOP! And CHOP! And CHOP again! The fans “WOO~” while Trick shakes out his hand. Trick then BACKHANDS Sami down!

The fans cheer Trick, then Trick stomps away on Sami, all to the rhythm of “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” Trick stops as the ref counts 4, then Trick whips. Sami grabs ropes, bails out, and the fans boo. Yachty taunts Sami, Sami glares at Yachty, but Trick goes out the side, and he CLOBBERS Sami! Trick high-fives with Yachty, then whips, but Sami reverses! Trick is sent into the steel steps! The fans boo but Sami pulls the steps apart. Yachty stands in Sami’s way, but Sami storms up to Yachty. Yachty backs off while Trick gets in the ring. Sami goes after Trick to rain down fists. The fans boo but Sami just shakes his head.

Trick drags himself to ropes but Sami drags Trick up. Sami CLUBS Trick with a crossface forearm, then brings him up again for a CHOP! Trick wobbles, Sami whips, and Sami LARIATS Trick down! Cover, TWO! Another cover, TWO! A high stack now, TWO! Tampa actually duels, “Let’s Go, Sami!” “Sami Sucks!” The “Sami Sucks!” side is winning by a large margin, though. Sami shakes his head again, then he SLAPS Trick around. The ref reprimands about pulling hair, and Sami lets go. Sami warns Yachty to watch himself, but Trick EDDY GORDO KICKS, then NECKBREAKERS! The fans fire up while both men are down!

Sami and Trick rise up, and Trick fires haymakers! Trick UPPERCUTS Sami, then whips for a LEG LARIAT! Then a scoop and SLAM! The fans fire up for Trick as he stands over Sami, and Trick grabs Sami’s hand. Trick hears the fans before he cartwheels and ripcords, but Sami arm-drags free! Trick comes back to BOOT Sami down! Trick then aims from the corner as Sami stands, TRICK- NO, Sami dodges to BLUE- NO! Trick slips free of the bomb to BOOKEND! Cover, TWO! Sami survives but Trick puts him in a corner. Trick puts Sami up top, the fans rally, and Trick climbs up. Trick clinches Sami, but Sami fires elbows!

The fans boo as Sami CLUBS Trick again and again and again! Sami then adjusts position, and he SUPER SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMBS! Cover, TWO! Trick survives and Sami is beside himself! Trick goes to a corner but Sami goes to the other. Sami wants to rally the fans, they just boo instead. Sami runs in, but Trick BOOTS Sami first! Then SPIN- NO, Sami ducks the kick to BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Trick lives and Sami grows frustrated. Sami brings Trick up to throw hands, but fans now sing, “Sami, Sami Sucks~!” Sami frowns, whips Trick to ropes, but Trick reverses. Sami goes up and over, but his knee jams!

The fans boo and Trick isn’t sure about this, but the ref has him back off. Trick checks with Yachty, Trick goes after Sami, but Sami cradles Trick! TWO!! Sami almost tricked Trick but now he CLOBBERS him! Yachty protests, but Sami grabs the kendo stick! Sami SMACKS Trick!! Cover, TWO!?!? Trick survives and Sami is stunned! The fans cheer as Sami’s trickery didn’t work! Yachty makes sure to hold onto the kendo stick now, but Sami stalks Trick to a corner. Sami stomps away on Trick, but the ref backs him off. The fans boo Sami but Sami just goes back for more! The ref reprimands again, Sami stops at 4 again, then goes back for another round!

The fans boo as Sami just stomps and stomps and stomps! The ref backs Sami off to check Trick. Sami aims from a corner, and the fans cheer Yachty on! HE SMACKS SAMI! The fans cheer, and Sami staggers into the CYCLONE KICK! Cover, TWO?!? Sami survives and Yachty can’t believe it! Sami crawls to ropes, Trick storms over, but Sami DUMPS Trick out! Then Sami CLOBBERS Yachty! The fans boo as Sami fires off kendo stick SMACKS on Yachty! But then Trick DECKS Sami! Sami falls against the steps, so Trick gets an idea. Trick clinches, but Sami fights the Bookend! DDT on the steps!! The fans boo as Sami pushes Trick into the ring.

Sami then runs up on Yachty! HELLUVA KICK!!! The fans boo as Sami takes Yachty out again! And now he aims at Trick! HELLUVA- NO, Trick dodges! TRICK SHOT!! Cover, TRICK WINS!

Winner: Trick Williams, by pinfall (still WWE United States Champion)

Tampa erupts with even more “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” Sami might’ve had him if he’d just focused, but Trick still reigns while Yachty makes it rain! What will be next for Trick now that he’s dealt with Sami Zayn? And speaking of Sami, what will be next for him now that he has nothing?

The Miz & Kit Wilson VS Danhausen & ???

The Hollywood A-Lister wanted to mentor someone, and that someone ended up the “Real Man of WWE,” not the strange yet strangely entertaining newcomer. However, to settle things once and for all, they are willing to take on Danhausen and whoever it is he has found (or rather, created in a lab?) to be his tag team partner. Will Teamhausen get the winhausen at Backlashausen? Or will the curse be nothing but TOXIC?

Well, speaking of Danhausen’s partner, the lights go down, and some kind of engine is pumping. Danhausen rides in on the Jeephausen, then goes to his “cloning machine” which is still just a big crate. It’s smoking… Is that a good thing? Danhausen pries it open, and from within steps out… MINIHAUSEN! Wait, are we sure that’s the right result? Well, whatever. They hop in the Jeephausen and drive down the ramp. #MizKit mocks Minihausen, and the teams sort out. Minihausen steps up against Kit, and Kit can’t believe this is happening. Minihausen says you, are- BOOT! Kit laughs as he sends Minihausen tumbling away.

Kit drags Minihausen to center, yanks him up, but Minihausen flips through! Then he dodges a kick to KICK, CHOP, CHOP, and whip! Kit reverses but Minihausen springboards to FLYING HEADBUTT! The fans cheer as Minihausen gets going, tilt-o-whirl DDT! Miz tags in, runs up, but Minihausen dodges to tilt-o-whirl and RANA! The fans cheer but Kit grabs Minihausen by his hair! Minihausen KICKS the legs, CHOPS, then knuckle locks! Minihausen CHOPS, goes up, up, and BOOTS Miz before he FLYING-NO, Kit stops the rana! Minihausen fires hands, then he RANAS through after all! The fans cheer as Kit tumbles out to join Miz!

Minihausen goes up, and he climbs onto Danhausen’s shoulders! The fans cheer for the SUPER MINI CROSSBODY! Down goes #MizKit! The fans fire up again while Danhausen fetches Kit. Danhausen puts Kit in for Minihausen, and Minihausen hurries after Kit. But Miz POSTS Danhausen! And Kit CLOBBERS Minihausen! The ref backs Kit off but Miz gets a cheap shot in! The fans boo but Kit looms over Minihausen. Kit drags Minihausen up, whips him into the corner, then tags Miz. Kit scoops Minihausen, TOSSES him to Miz, and Miz gorilla presses Minihausen for the GORILLA PRESS POWERESLAM! Miz rips off his shirt to show off his muscles!

The fans boo but Miz soaks up the heat. Miz tags Kit, they drag Minihausen up, feed and DOUBLE SUPLEX! Then Miz lets Kit hold Minihausen up by his own! Kit swivels his hips before he SLAMS Minihausen down! Cocky cover, TWO! Minihausen survives but Kit covers again, TWO! The fans rally for Minihausen but Kit clamps on a chinlock. Kit thrashes Minihausen around, but the fans rally up! Minihausen rises up, reaches out, but Kit THRASHES Minihausen more! They go to a corner, Kit puts Minihausen up top, then in a Tree of Woe! Kit KNEES Minihausen again and again, then backs off to go to the far corner.

Kit fires up, blows a kiss, then runs up, but Minihausen sits up! Kit crashes into buckles! Minihausen goes up to QUEBRADA! Down goes Kit and the fans fire up! Minihausen crawls, as does Kit, hot tags to Miz and Danhausen! The fans fire up as Danhausen atoimnc drops Miz, then LARIATS! And a wrench and NORTHERN LIGHTS for Kit! Danhausen fires up and the fans are with him! Danhausen LARIATS Miz in a corner, LARIATS Kit in a corner, then repeat! Danuausen runs out of steam already, but then he gets that second wind! The fans cheer as Danhausen LARIATS again! Then he dodges Kit to send him into Miz! GERMAN SUPLEX!

The fans fire up as Danhausen runs, tilt-o-whirls, and DDTS Miz! Danhausen roars as he rises up, and the fans join in with, “YOU! ARE! CURSED!” Kit takes the BOOT for Miz! Miz rolls Danhausen up, TWO! Miz BOOTS Danhausen down! Minihausen tags in, Danhausen dodges, and Miz gets stuck in ropes! Minihausen CLUBS Miz down, then FLYING RANANS Kit! They’re back outside again, and Minihausen DIVES! The Mini Tope takes both men out! The fans fire up as Minihausen chases Kit up the ramp! Kit is freaking out, but he suckers Minihausen into a BOOT! Kit sees the crate, and he decides to THROW Minihausen in!

The fans boo as Kit traps Minihausen in the device that made him! But wait, it powers back up!? And this time, there’s an ARMY OF MINIHAUSEN! They’re back from WrestleMania for revenge! They dog pile Kit, chase him back into the ring, and Minihausen Uno fireman’s carries! AIRPLANE SPIN!! Then a WASTELAND SLAM!! Wade Barrett is upset that his move was used. But Kit, YOU! ARE! CURSED! Wait, the mirror! It sends it back on Minihausen! SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!! Cover, Danhausen breaks it!! The fans cheer as Teamhausen is still in this! Danhausen fires up, he brings Minihausen to the corner, and Danhausen tags in!

Danhausen has Miz, but Miz SLAPS him! Danhausen scowls, and he hits a THESZ PRESS for fast hands! Miz fights free, but Danhausen LARIATS Miz up and out! Then he LARIATS Kit up and out! Danhausen goes out, high-fives his other Minihausens, but Miz BOOTS Danhausen into the desk! And he brings out a fire extinguisher! Miz says Danhausen’s cursed! Uh, no, Miz is, cuz the extinguisher doesn’t work! Miz looks at it, and it blasts Miz!! Danhausen puts Miz in the ring, then again, “YOU! ARE! CURSED!” Minihausen SUPER DUPER CROSSBODIES Kit! And Danhausen handles Miz with a PUMP KICK!! Cover, Teamhausen wins!

Winners: Danhausen & Minihausen, by pinfall

Whether or not the curse is real, that was a Very Nice, Very Evil victory for Teamhausen! They still don’t have the magical disappearing act down, though. But will Danhausen continue to take over WWE with his loony ways?

Asuka VS Iyo Sky!

The more things change, the more they stay the same. From Triple Tails to DMD CTRL to now, the Empress of Tomorrow and the Genius of the Sky always end up at odds. Asuka-senpai wants to punish Iyo for her apparent disrespect and selfishness, but perhaps does not see that in herself. But will Iyo still suffer for doing what was right? Or will she still not be ready for Asuka?

The bell rings, the fans chant for Iyo, but also “We Want Kairi!” Iyo and Asuka circle, tie up, and go around, even on the mat and back to their feet. Asuka powers Iyo to a corner, Iyo goes up and hits an arm-drag. They’re still locked up as they go to the ropes, and the ref counts. Iyo lets go but Asuka shoves her. They tie up again and now Asuka puts Iyo on the ropes. The ref counts, Asuka stops, but then they throw hands! Asuka manages a headlock and wrangles Iyo down. Iyo fights up, fires body shots, and the fans continue to chant, “We Want Kairi!” Asuka hits a takeover, Iyo headscissors, and Asuka kips free, only for Iyo to headlock back.

Asuka fights up, fires body shots, and she powers out. Iyo RAMS shoulders with Asuka, they egg each other on, then they start shoving. Then Asuka fires forearms, a SOBAT, and runs, but Iyo blows past her! Asuka avoids the handspring but Iyo trips Asuka up! Iyo runs to SHOTGUN Asuka down! The fans fire up with Iyo, she stomps Asuka in the corner, then stops as the ref counts. Asuka ROCKS Iyo, Iyo CLUBS Asuka, but Asuka fires a flurry! Asuka THROWS Iyo, but Iyo handsprings through! Iyo wags her finger, then drop toeholds Asuka into buckles! Iyo digs her boots in, then SWINGING DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO!

Asuka bails out to the apron but Iyo brings her up. Asuka ROCKS Iyo, then goes for a corner. Iyo BACKHANDS Asuka away, then goes to the apron. The fans cheer as Iyo climbs, but Asuka KICKS the legs out! Asuka has Iyo’s hair, and SMACKS her into the post! The fans boo but Asuka shows no remorse as she drags Iyo down. Asuka SMACKS Iyo off the barriers, then puts her on the apron. The fans rally for Iyo while Asuka refreshes the count. Asuka swaggers, then fires Kawada Kicks on Iyo’s face! The fans boo, the ref counts, but Asuka stops at 4. Asuka steps into the ring, drags Iyo around, and has the ANCHOR HOLD!

The ref counts and the fans boo, but Asuka lets go of the leglock Kairi created before she CHOKES Iyo on the ropes. The ref counts again, but Asuka stops, only to put Iyo in a corner. Asuka digs her knee in, stops at 4, then storms back around to scuff Iyo. Asuka kicks Iyo, slaps her around, but Iyo hits back! The fans rally for Iyo, Iyo runs, but Asuka KICKS Iyo down! Cover, TWO! Asuka is annoyed but she clamps onto Iyo’s arm. Iyo endures the armlock, fights up, and the fans rally as she fires body shots! Asuka THROWS Iyo down by her hair! Asuka slaps Iyo around while the fans boo. Asuka paces, then she brings Iyo up for a KICK!

Iyo sputters but she shakes her head. Asuka taunts Iyo, then KICKS her! And KICKS her! Iyo still shakes her head defiantly, so Asuka KICKS, KICKS, and KICKS! Iyo blocks one to ROCK Asuka back! Then a victory roll, STMOP 182! The fans fire up while both women are down! The fans rally as Iyo and Asuka slowly rise up. They both run in, but Iyo dodges to URAKEN! And SHOTEI! And SHOTEI! Iyo reels Asuka in, whips her to a corner, but Asuka reverses. Iyo slips out, duck sunder, then HOTSHOTS the arm! Asuka staggers away, and Iyo goes up for the MISSILE DROPKICK! The fans cheer while Iyo handsprings and does her crazy taunt!

Iyo rallies the fans, then she runs corner to corner, SHINKANSEN! Iyo drags Asuka to a cover, TWO! Asuka survives but Iyo hauls her up. Iyo underhooks for a TIGER- NO, Asuka fights free, and URAKENS! SOBATS! FRONT KICKS! HAYMAKERS! MULE KICKS! Then SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! Iyo survives the strike fest but Asuka keeps her focus. BUZZ- NO, Iyo rolls Asuka up! TWO! Asuka ducks the buzzsaw but not the HEEL KICK! Cover, TWO! Asuka toughs it out but Iyo drags her up. Iyo waistlocks but Asuka flails! Asuka goes to ropes, Iyo pries her free, and GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridging cover, TWO! KIMURA!!

The fans rally for Iyo as she endures, but Asuka has her caught! FUJIWARA ARMBAR! Iyo endures, rolls, and KICKS free! Asuka stumbles towards ropes, Iyo runs up, but Asuka BOOTS back! Iyo comes back, but into a POP-UP KNEE! Asuka runs up, but Iyo dodges to HEEL KICK! Asuka falls, but so does Iyo, and the fans fire up again! Asuka and Iyo crawl to opposite ends, they roar, and they run back up! Asuka hits a FLYING ARMBAR, and rolls it into the ASUKA LOCK!! Iyo fights around before the body scissors can lock in! Iyo stands, Asuka wraistlocks, but Iyo ELBOWS free! And STUNNER! Iyo runs up, but into a snap takedown!

Iyo rolls fast, but ends up in a CROSS ARM BREAKER! Iyo endures, fights around, manages to stack Asuka and roll her, into an ASUKA LOCK?!?! The fans fire up as Iyo makes Asuka suffer her own hold! Asuka flails, reaches out, but the body scissors are in! Asuka kicks, kicks, and reaches out, ROPEBREAK!! The fans rally for Iyo while Asuka coughs and sputters on the apron. Iyo goes up the corner, but Asuka SMACKS her off the post again! Asuka shakes her head, she’s still savvier than Iyo. Asuka climbs up the corner, but Iyo SHOTEIS! The fans cheer as Iyo goes up after Asuka to fire forearms! Iyo goes to the very top, for a SUPER STEINER!

But Asuka sunset flips it?! TWO!!! Asuka almost had Iyo and she is freaking out! The fans rally harder as Asuka roars and runs in on Iyo! Iyo dodges the hip attack to DROPKICK Asuka outta the ring! Iyo shakes out her bad arm, yanks on it to get it feeling right, and she builds speed for a DIVE into a forearm! Asuka drags Iyo out, SMACKS her off the desk, then pushes her onto it. Asuka clears the desk before she climbs up. The fans rally as Asuka brings Iyo up, but Iyo fights the suplex! Asuka SOBATS Iyo for it, then winds up, but Iyo BLOCKS THE MIST WITH A NOTEBOOK! The fans cheer as Iyo outsmarts her senpai! Then she blocks a kick, DRAGON SCREW on the desk!

The fans fire up as Iyo pushes Asuka around, then goes up to CROSSBODY! The fans fire up again as Iyo refreshes the count, climbs back up, and ASAI MOONSAULTS! Down goes Asuka and the fans fire up again! Iyo drags Asuka up, puts her in the ring, and she sees Asuka going to a drop zone. Iyo drags Asuka into place, goes up and up and OVER THE MOONSAULT! But Asuka moves! And she reels Iyo in for an ARMBAR!!! Iyo flails, fights around, but ends up in a TRIANGLE HOLD! Iyo stacks it, TWO, and into the ASUKA LOCK!! Asuka has the body scissors! Iyo flails, reaches out, but Asuka has her caught! IYO fades, but springs to life! She rolls to a cover, TWO!!!

Asuka grabs at Iyo, frustrated with Iyo, but “This is Awesome!” Asuka looks Iyo in the eyes before she SLAPS her! Iyo SLAPS back, and they SLAP back and forth! Iyo fires more fast hands and the fans fire up again! Then ROUND- NO, Asuka slips under, around, and GERMAN SUPLEXES! But Iyo ducks the buzzsaw! GERMAN SUPLEX in return! Asuka goes to a corner, Iyo runs back in, SHINKANSEN! Iyo sets Asuka back in place, steps on her, and goes up the corner! OVER THE MOONSAULT!! Cover, IYO WINS!

Winner: Iyo Sky, by pinfall

After the months of Asuka being overbearing and selfish, she is the one that suffers defeat! Iyo still shows her senpai respect with a deep bow, and Asuka starts to tear up. And they HUG! Perhaps this defeat has shown Asuka the light! The fans cheer as these two stand together, and perhaps there’s hope for a new beginning. Will Iyo herself find a new path back to a championship?

JOHN CENA is here!

Tampa cheers as The GOAT is back again, dressed in another sharp suit as he goes to the ring for some business. Cena takes the mic and says, “This is just so cool, honestly. One of the great things about being on this side now is I can really lean into moments you just allowed me to be a part of, because I know there’s no one coming down to kick my teeth in. So truly, thank you so much.” The fans cheer, and Cena continues by saying a sold-out house of gratitude and energy, he loves to hear it. But it’s moments like this that had him ever thinking, what would be the next phase of his WWE career? The fans chant “One More Match!”

Cena says he expected that. And you don’t know how good that makes him feel. He does think about his last match. The fans boo, probably booing Gunther specifically. Cena gets that, there are people who were upset. But he was truly happy. Honestly, he looks back and he couldn’t be happier. What was most important to him was that they all made it something bigger. In its entirety, that night was an evening of opportunity. Cena made sure the person had to win their way into that spot. He asked the WE Superstars if they’d be gracious enough to give opportunity, which they did when they faced NXT superstars so that NXT could be in front of a crowd like this, showing what they’ve got.

And think about this: on that night, for the first time, the main roster got to see Sol Ruca, Je’Von Evans, and Oba Femi! The fans certainly cheer for “O~BA! HOOT!” Cena hopes Oba is watching and listening, this is what the energy sounds like? Oba debuted in December, and four months later, he is strutting, and kicking Brock Lesnar’s ass at WrestleMania! The fans cheer that! That’s when it hit Cena: They gotta do this again! So we are. Oh? Cena is honored here tonight to announce to the world, the John Cena Classic! And entire evening of the best of today competing against the best of tomorrow!

And entire night where WWE Superstars and NXT Superstars get to give you all they have, in hopes of being crowned a champion. Yes, we’re making history with a brand new event, and a brand new championship! And not just any championship. This is an event and a title that Cena is personally putting his name on. So Cena is going to strive for a certain level of excellence, and he’ll do everything he can to make it special. Cena has said time and time again, the biggest star in the WWE is the WWE Universe! So on top of the new event, on top of the new title, for the first time in history, the voice of the fans will be heard louder than ever before.

Because you, the audience, will vote to crown the champion of the John Cena Classic! And every participant qualifies! That also means that for the first time in history, a superstar might not win their match, but their hustle, could win your respect, and win your vote to still be crowned champion! This event embodies everything Cena stands for and values, and he cannot stress enough how important this is for him. He promises to give us his all to make this event just once. No, he wants to do it two years, five years, ten years, thirty, the sky is the limit! Cena wants to thank the stars like Oba Femi who busted their ass on that Saturday Night’s Main Event to make this a relaity.

Cena lets the fans go on with “O~BA! O~BA!” Cena continues by saying he also wants to thank the WWE for being gracious enough to accept this idea. And he wants to thank everyone watching at home, and here in the City of Tampa, that there are a lot of people here that know Tampa means a lot to Cena for a lot of reasons. And they can add this to the list: Thank you so much for your attention, for your time, for your enthusiasm, for your energy, and for the NOISE~! The fans cheer that! Cena says it sounds like they’re ready, so he will see you at the John Cena Classic. And now, it’s time for your maaaaaaaain~ event!

The fans are all fired up for this massive move by not just the Greatest of All Time but by the WWE itself. Who will show they have that hustle, loyalty and respect to become the inaugural John Cena Classic Champion?

WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Roman Reigns VS Jacob Fatu!

When the OTC took this title from CM Punk at WrestleMania, everyone worried the OG Bloodline would relapse into their old ways. But before they could even address such concerns, the Samoan Werewolf stepped up and made his challenge known. Will Jacob take everything he wants so he can everything he needs? Or will he have no choice but to ACKNOWLEDGE the Tribal Chief?

Jacob wears a white lei made by his cousin, the daughter of Haku, the man who innovated the Tongan Death Grip. Surely that is a sign of Haku’s blessing on this challenge for the top spot in their family tree. Roman raises the World Heavyweight Championship for the pyro, then goes to the ring. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is truly the head of the table!

The bell rings and the fans sing “Roman, Roman Reigns~!” Fatu and Roman stare down, but then Fatu looks to the belt. The fans are dueling now as Roman and Fatu slowly circle. They tie up, go around, then Roman headlocks. Fatu powers up and out, but Roman RUNS him over! Roman puts up his finger, but Fatu stands right up! Roman is rather surprised, then brushes it off as the two reset. The dueling from the fans continues as the two circle again. They tie up, Fatu headlocks, but Roman endures the grind. Roman powers up, powers out, but Fatu RUNS Roman over! Roman is again surprised, but things speed up now.

Roman drops down, hurdles, and LARIATS! But Fatu stays up! Fatu LARIATS and Roman falls! The fans fire up with Fatu and he runs up again, to LARIAT Roman up and out! Fatu is feeling it, and he builds speed to DIVE! TONGAN DEATH GRIP!! Fatu uses the tope to take Roman off guard for this vice grip! Fatu POSTS Roman, puts him in the ring, then grins as he stalks Roman. Roman bails out the side but Fatu storms up to drag him up. Roman HOTSHOTS Fatu down! Roman pulls Fatu’s arm against the ropes, but he lets go as the ref counts. Roman then bends Fatu’s fingers, and SLAMS the hand against the POST!

The fans duel as the two go around the way. Roman ELBOW BREAKERS, then puts Fatu in the ring. The dueling gets hotter but Roman brushes it off. Roman wrenches Fatu to YANK the arm, and YANK the arm, and bumps Fatu off buckles. Roman pulls the bad arm against ropes, but Fatu HEADBUTS Roman away! Fatu ROCKS Roman, even with the bad hand. Fatu HEADBUTTS Roman, HEADBUTTS again, but Roman UPPERCUTS! Roman ROCKS Fatu, then puts him in a corner. Roman climbs up to rain down fists! The fans count but Fatu stops Roman at three. Roman LARIATS again and again, but Fatu stops him at five!

Fatu has the cording hold to then short arm LARIAT! The fans fire up while Roman is down! Fatu dares Roman to get up, then drags him around. Fatu HEADBUTTS Roman, HEADBUTTS again, then drags Roman up to POST him! Roman sputters in the corner but Fatu dumps him out to the apron. The fans continue to duel, and Jacob revels in it all. Fatu says he’s taking it all! Fatu sees Roman back in the corner, runs up, but Roman dodges! The splash hits the post, and Roman LARIATS! And LARIATS! Roman whips, Fatu reverses, but Roman LEAPING LARIATS! The fans fire up with Roman now, and he runs up in the corner to LARIAT!

Roman keeps moving, and he BOOTS Fatu down! Fatu flounders while Roman raises the finger to the sky. Roman locks ‘n’ loads, SUPERMAN PUNCH! Cover, ONE?!? Fatu even stands up and geeks out! The fans are fired up and Roman’s seen a ghost! The fans rally behind Fatu as he stares Roman down. Roman runs up, but Fatu counter punches! And counter punches! And counter punches again! Fatu whips but Roman KICKS him! Fatu just fires up again! LARIAT! SENTON! Fatu goes to a corner while Roman crawls to the other. Fatu runs up, LARIAT! Fatu climbs up, and he HEADBUTTS again and again! The fans count all the way to TEN!

Fatu then runs corner to corner, and he HIP ATTACKS! Roman sputters, Fatu geeks out, and the fans are thunderous! Fatu gets moving again, but SUPERMAN PUNCH! Cover, TWO! Fatu survives that sudden turnaround, and the fans are dueling as hard as they have all night. Roman sees Fatu on the outside, so he rolls out and takes aim. Roman runs to DRIVE-BY DROPKICK! Roman busts out a classic for this one, then he looks to the desk. Roman clears the desk, then he fetches Fatu. But TONGAN DEATH GRIP!! Fatu holds on tight, and he reels Roman in for a POWERBOMB down through the desk! Tampa loses their minds from this destruction!

Fatu clears out the armchairs, then he drags Roman up from the wreckage. Fatu puts Roman in at 7 of 10, then hurries to line up another shot! HIP- SPEAR!! Cover, TWO!! Roman almost ends it there, but Fatu is still tougher than all that! “This is Awesome!” as both men slowly stir. Roman sits up, crawls over to a corner, but so does Fatu. The fans rally harder and harder, and Roman stands! The fans cheer as Roman lets out the “OOOAH~!” Fatu rises, Roman runs up, but Fatu POP-UP SAMOAN DROPS!! Fatu drags Roman into the drop zone! MIGHTY MOONSAULT!! Cover, TWO?!?! Roman survives and shocks everyone!

Fatu is beside himself, but he just unleashes FALLING HEADBUTT again and again! Then he rains down forearms and fists! Fatu vows to end this, and he drags Roman back to the drop zone. Fatu goes back up, says “SUCK IT!” and SWANTON BOMB but onto knees!! A double-edged way to save himself given Roman clutches his knee, but better than letting Fatu hit that directly. The fans rally up as both men crawl to each other. They stare down, and they fire haymakers! The fans rally and duel as the shots go back and forth, harder and harder, faster and faster! Fatu rebounds to ROCK Roman, but Roman rebounds to ROCK Fatu!

Fatu UPPERCUTS Roman, but Roman UPPERCUTS back! Fatu UPPERCUTS Roman to a corner, and HIP ATTACKS! Then ANOTHER HIP ATTACK! The fans are thunderous again as Fatu prepares his hand! Roman rises up, TONGAN DEATH GRIP!!! Roman grabs at Fatu’s hand but he can’t pry free! Roman is fading, dropping to his knees already! The fans duel as hard as they can as Fatu keeps his grip on Roman’s throat! The ref checks, and Roman comes back to life! Roman rises up, he CLAWS Fatu’s face, and RAMS him into the ref! The fans are torn, this looks like Tribal Chief of old! SUERPMAN PUNCH!

Fatu staggers around, but Roman SUPERMAN PUNCHES again! Roman keeps moving, but Fatu SUPERKICKS! Roman rebounds, into a POP-UP, but Roman SUPERMAN PUNCHES!! And SPEARS!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? No one knows what to make of this, least of all Roman! Roman argues with the ref, but then the TONGAN DEATH GRIP!!! Roman grabs at the ref, the ref shakes free, and they end up in a corner. The buckle pad comes off, the ref takes that, but Roman THROWS Fatu into the steel! SPEAR!!! Cover, ROMAN WINS!!

Winner: Roman Reigns, by pinfall (still WWE World Heavyweight Champion)

Fatu wakes up and is furious! Roman did all of that out of desperation, and Fatu takes it up with the ref. The ref says he couldn’t do anything abut the buckle, but Fatu CHOKES Roman!! The ref tries to stop Fatu, Fatu SHOVES him down, and then he has the TONGAN DEATH GRIP back on Roman!! The ref tries again, Fatu backs off, but then POP-UP SMAON DROPS him!! TONGAN DEATH GRIP on Roman!! Producers rush out here, but Fatu SUPERKICKS Shane Helms down! And he TOSSES Adam Pearce!! The fans can’t believe it, but Fatu just puts the TONGAN DEATH GRIP back on Roman!!

The producers try but fail to pry Fatu away from Roman, and Roman is foaming at the mouth! Roman is OUT, and Fatu says he told Roman and he told us all, he’s gonna take EVERYTHING! And then he’s not done!! He shoves his way through the producers to CHOKE Roman again!!! Pearce is back up and he tells Fatu to stop! Fatu’s going cross-eyed, he’s that unhinged!! Fatu holds up the title as he stands over Roman, even though he did not win. What consequences will there be for Fatu after going this far?

My Thoughts:

A great Backlash, maybe one of the better ones in a long time. Great opening from Rollins VS Bron, though Rollins was maybe trying too hard to pull off the “land out of Super Steiner” a la Will Ospreay. Of course The Vision got involved, and that helped protect Rollins in his loss, which makes me think we’ll get a rematch over the summer. I also still think there’s going to be a Six Man Tag of Rollins & Profits VS Vision at some point, too. Great US Championship match from Trick VS Sami, and to my surprise, Trick wins rather than Sami cheating to win and make them 1-1. There’s no reason for a tiebreaker now, so both of them are likely moving on.

Danhausen’s partner being “Minihausen,” aka El Torito/Mascarita Dorada, was an interesting surprise. Not quite what anyone was expecting or hoping for, but Minihausen won the fans in Tampa over. I was expecting a “Megahausen” to step out of the crate after Kit threw Minihausen back in, but I suppose that’d be a matter of who else they’d get to cosplay Danhausen. Too bad they let go of Jeff Cobb before this… Anyway, great win for Teamhausen, but I can’t be sure if this feud with Miz & Kit ends here or not. The feud of Asuka VS Iyo is certainly over now after their great grudge match, but also because they let Kairi Sane go, denying the rightful story blowoff of Kairi standing up to Asuka. Maybe Asuka turns Face, maybe not, Raw on Monday will give us more.

John Cena’s announcement was not what I was expecting. It definitely wasn’t going to be #OneMoreMatch, I knew that. And with buzz of a revived Lucha Underground going around the internet, that was likely to be announced more by Rey Mysterio or another of the LU alumni like Penta or Rey Fenix. A John Cena Classic, where the entries are likely chosen by WWE but then the fans elect the champion(s)… This can either go very well or very poorly. My mind goes to times when like American Idol ended up with troll votes to keep the actual last place person still going. Or even WWE’s Cyber Sunday and Taboo Tuesday, where no one could be sure if the vote was shoot or kayfabe. Hopefully the title looks awesome, though, maybe with a spinner on it.

And great main event from Roman VS Fatu with the fans split pretty much 50-50. Roman did this on his own but he technically still cheated. And with Fatu going after Roman in his rage, there’s a good chance this is far from over. I don’t think they’ll do something for Clash of Italy when Cody VS Gunther for the Undisputed Championship is going to be the main event there, but something during the European tour could be good build material towards Night of Champions or even SummerSlam.

My Score: 8.9/10

How far can hate take a superstar?

CM Punk and Roman Reigns confessed their hate for each other, but whose grudge brings them the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• ESPN Hour – Brock Lesnar w/ Paul Heyman VS Oba Femi; Femi wins.
• ESPN Hour – WWE Intercontinental Championship Six Pack Ladder Match: PENTA VS JD McDonagh VS Je’Von Evans VS Dragon Lee VS Rusev VS Rey Mysterio; Penta wins and retains the title.
• WWE United States Championship: Sami Zayn VS Trick Williams w/ Lil Yachty; Trick wins and becomes the new WWE United States Champion.
• Las Vegas Street Fight: Dominik Mysterio VS “Demon” Finn Balor; Finn wins.
• WWE Women’s Championship: Jade Cargill VS Rhea Ripley; Rhea wins and becomes the new WWE Women’s Champion.
• WWE World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk VS Roman Reigns; Roman wins and becomes the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion.

PLAY BY PLAY

It’s the WrestleMania 42 Countdown Show, Part Two!

Again, join Joe Tessitore, Wade Barrett, Corey Graves & Big E on discussing, analyzing, and predicting the last night of this WrestleMania Weekend!

Joe Jonas sings the Star-Spangled Banner.

WrestleMania: The Ultimate Stage, Part Two.

Lin-Manuel Miranda says, “You felt it last night, didn’t you? We all did. That’s WrestleMania. We experience the excitement live and larger than life, and it lasts forever. But WrestleMania doesn’t take a bow after one act. Tonight isn’t a repeat, it’s an encore. Bigger, louder, even more unforgettable. So if you thought you’d seen it all, just wait.”

JOHN CENA is here, again!

The fans cheer as The GOAT is in a different suit but still struts to the ring as the host of WrestleMania 42! Cena grabs the mic ot say, “We kicked off WrestleMania with an incredible night one! And I’m looking around, and I feel the energy here in Las Vegas. The stage is set for a historic night two. As a matter of fact, we’ve already made history. For the first time in history, WrestleMania is LIVE on E S P N!” The fans are torn about that, but Cena says that means they gotta start with something BIG! “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to WrestleMania!” The pyro goes off, and the tron goes from Mad Max meets Borderlands, right into a super cyberspace!

ESPN Hour – Brock Lesnar w/ Paul Heyman VS Oba Femi!

The Advocate put out the WrestleMania Open Challenge on behalf of The Beast, and while Seth Rollins got Lesnar’s attention, it was The Ruler who answered the call! These two have fought in and out of the ring, but now they fight in a match! Will Lesnar prove he is The Conqueror? Or will Oba prove he is The One?

Speaking of The Wise Man, he interrupts Alicia Taylor’s introductions so he can give his usual introduction, “Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Paul Heyman. Tonight, the Beast, The Conqueror, the REAL Ruler of WrestleMania, BRRROCK, LESNARRR~!” Alicia finishes by giving Oba his introductions, and while no official title is on the line, it is time to see who is the true alpha male of our species!

The bell rings and the fans are thunderous already! Oba and Lesnar tie up, are in a deadlock, but Oba’s height is just enough to give him leverage! Oba powers Lesnar back, but Lesnar pushes him back. The two tie up again, Lesnar powers Oba back now, but Oba shoves Lesnar back! But then Lesnar RAMS Oba into the corner again and again! But Oba just shakes it off! And he SHOVES Lesnar down! The fans are going nuts again! Lesnar LAIAST, but Oba stays up! Another LARIAT, but Oba stays up! Oba LARIATS Lesnar down!! Vegas is erupting while Lesnar bails out! Even Heyman is shocked! Lesnar might be intimidated for the first time in his life!

Lesnar pulls the steps apart, but the ref reprimands. Lesnar snarls as he drops the step, and he’s pissed! Lesnar paces, Heyman questions what he’s seeing, it’s superhuman! Oba grabs at Lesnar through the ropes! Oba drags Lesnar up, but Lesnar HOTSHOTS Oba, then drags him out! Lesnar RAMS Oba into the post! Oba hobbles and staggers but Lesnar POSTS him again! The fans boo but Lesnar whips Oba into the steps! Lesnar puts Oba in the ring now that he’s turned the proverbial tables. GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans are torn, Sin City is about to become Suplex City! Lesnar grins, and he GERMAN SUPLEXES Oba again!

Oba tumbles but Lesnar soaks up the cheers and jeers. Oba rises but Lesnar KNEES him in the chest! Then GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans are counting along, that’s three. Oba sputters and coughs but Lesnar hauls him up again. Oba fires elbows to fight free! The fans cheer as Oba runs up and UPPERCUTS in the corner! Oba keeps going, UPPERCUT! Oba tries again, but Lesnar gets under with a fireman’s carry! F5!! Lesnar roars, but OBA RISES?! Guzel and CHOKE SLAM!! The fans are going nuts for Oba as Heyman is shocked again! Oba waits on Lesnar, for the POP-UP, and the FALL FROM GRACE!!! Cover, OBA WINS!!!

Winner: Oba Femi, by pinfall

Here is your winner, and the NEW~ alpha male of WWE, Oba Femi! Vegas cheers “O~BA!” as he struts away, but Lesnar is still down! Perhaps he’s still coming to terms with reality. Oba tips his proverbial cap to Lesnar, but what is next for THE Next Big Thing? As for Lesnar, he finally sits up, and fans shift to a chant of, “Thank You, Lesnar!” But then even the fans are shocked as Lesnar starts taking off the gloves, and untying the laces on his boots! Lesnar is emotional as a moment perhaps even he never thought was coming might finally be here. Off comes one boot, then the other, and fans again chant, “Thank You, Brock!”

Lesnar leaves his gloves and boots in the center, waves to the fans, and the fans all cheer. Heyman steps into the ring, still stunned. But in the end, he hugs his client and friend. Heyman raises Lesnar’s hand and the fans cheer again. Lesnar waves again, even standing on the corner to take a bow. Then he goes to center to take an even deeper bow, before stepping out of the ring and up the ramp. If this is truly the last time Lesnar is in a WWE ring or on a WWE screen, then indeed, #ThankYouBrockLesnar.

ESPN Hour – WWE Intercontinental Championship Six Pack Ladder Match: PENTA VS JD McDonagh VS Je’Von Evans VS Dragon Lee VS Rusev VS Rey Mysterio!

The Man With No Fear has proven himself a fighting champion, but only someone with no fear would be willing to risk his reign on something like this! The dealer (Adam Pearce) has dealt an Irish Ace, a Young OG, a Boy Wonder, a Bulgarian Lion, and even the King of Lucha Libre! But will Penta still walk away with the jackpot? Or will someone else have the hot hand?

The introductions are made, the belt awaits high above, and we see who wins the literally highest of stakes!

The bell rings and JD TACKLES Evans, Rusev DECKS Rey and stomps Dragon, but Penta goes up, up, and CROSSBODIES Rusev! The fans fire up as now Penta, Dragon, Rey, and JD are in the ring. JD kicks, Dragon blocks, and Penta SUPERKICKS! Rey ROCKS JD, Dragon adds on, and they whip JD to the corner! JUMP KICK< DROPKICK, sweep, DROPKICK and DROPKICK! Then a SWINGING DROPKICK! JD falls out of the ring after taking all those shots, and now the three lucha icons are in the ring. Rey shakes their hands out of respect, but Penta y Dragon both whip! Rusev trips Rey to then drag him out and send him into the steel steps!

Dragon runs, Penta slips through the tilt-o-whirl, but then they agree to DOUBLE DROPKICK Rusev and that ladder! Then they both build speed, only for Rusev to CLOBBER them with the ladder! Rusev roars, then he grabs an even bigger ladder to make a bridge from ring to desk! Rusev goes up, Penta Triangle Jump LARIATS him down! Penta runs at JD, but JD lifts his ladder to avoid the dropkick. Then JD backs it up to RAM Penta down! But Evans FLIES and takes JD out! The fans fire up as #WeOutside! The Young OG gets that ladder up and in, but Dragon catches him for a FLYING RANA off the apron and onto JD!

Dragon and Rey grab the ladder at the same time. Mentor and student stare down, and they throw the ladder aside to throw hands! Dragon ROCKS Rey, fires more shots, then runs, but Rey blows past to RAN- NO! Dragon blocks that, but Rey swings up to RANA Dragon onto ropes! The fans fire up as Rey dials it up, but Dragon ducks the 619! SUPERKICK! Rey tumbles out, Dragon gets the ladder back up, but Rusev RAMS Dragon down with one! Rusev then RAMS Evans with the ladder! And he RAMS Penta! And he CLOBBERS Rey! The fans boo but JD CLUBS Rusev! JD BOOTS Rusev, CHOPS and fires hands, but Rusev SHOVES JD!

JD runs back up, but Rusev BACKDROPS JD onto the ladder! JD writhes and flounders away, but Rusev stands the ladder up> Vegas still celebrates Rusev Day as he climbs up the ladder! But Penta intercepts! They brawl, Rusev CHOKES Penta, but Penta ROCKS Rusev again and again! THEN FLYING SLING-DOG! But Evans SHOVES Penta away, climbs up, but Penta YANKS Evans down to SUPERKICK! Penta goes up the corner but JD SHOVES him down! JD climbs the ladder but Evans CLUBS him! Evans climbs, they both fight to grab at the belt! JD touches the belt, but Rusev SHOVES the ladder!

Evans LEAPS to CROSSBODY onto Penta! JD springboards off the ladder to QUEBRADA Rusev!! JD resets the ladder while the fans lose their minds! JD goes up, but Evans springboards back in, FLYING LARIAT! They wipe out, but then Dragon DROPKICKS and TOSSES them! “This is Awesome!” as Dragon has a ladder, but Rey DROPKICKS him inside of it! Rey dials it up, FULL METAL 619!! The fans are thunderous as Rey moves things around, and takes the biggest ladder to center! Rey stands the ladder up, but Evans LEAPS OVER Rey! Evans and Rey fight as they climb, but Penta SUPERKICKS Evans!

Penta SUPERKICKS Rey’s legs out, sends Evans into Rey, but Evans SUPERKICKS back! Penta kicks Evans and snap suplexes him into the corner ladder! Rey is in a Tree of Woe, Dragon WOE STOMPS him!! Dragon WRECKS JD with a dropkick, then goes up the main ladder! But Rusev shakes the ladder to bring Dragon down! Rusev ROCKS and URENAGES Dragon! The fans are torn but Rusev creates another ladder bridge. Evans ROCKS Rusev, Rursev ROCKS Evans, and then URENAGES Evans on the ladder bridge! Evans flops down but Ruesv eggs him on. Rusev climbs, Penta rolls in, and Penta CLUBS Rusev!

Penta drags Rusev down, CHOPS him, then SUPERKICKS! Rey is up to KICK Rusev to a corner. Rusev flops to the apron, Penta and Rey stare down, and the fans rally up. Penta kicks Rey, whips, but Rey KICKS back! Rey runs, but Penta pops him up! SUPER SEATED SENTON onto Rusev and THROUGH the ladder bridge!!! The fans go nuts again while those two are down in the wreckage! Penta hurries up the ladder, but Rey is back! Rey drags Penta down, ROCKS him, then climbs again. But Penta CLUBS Rey, Electric Chair Lift, but Rey RANAS Penta into a ladder! Penta stumbles onto the ropes, and the fans fire up!

Rey dials it up for the 619!! Penta is down, Rey goes up, but Dragon meets him there! They brawl up top, paw at the belt, and repeat! Dragon ROCKS Rey, SMACKS him off the rungs, but Rey CLUBS and SMACKS Dragon’s arm! Dragon dangles, Rey BOOTS him down! Rey climbs but Dragon scrambles! Rey kicks Dragon away, and SUPER FLYING- NO! Dragon stops the rana and hits a STYLES CLASH!! Dragon hurries up the ladder, but JD anchors him! The fans boo as JD climbs up to CLUB away on Dragon. Dragon kicks JD, throws forearms and elbows, but JD clinches! SUPER SPANISH FLY!! The fans go nuts again, but they know “This is Awesome!”

JD drags himself up the ladder, climbs up, but Penta is back! Penta throws hands to stop JD at the very top! The fans rally as those two throw hands, and Penta CHOPS! JD ROCKS Penta, Penta ROCKS JD, and then Penta climbs. But JD reels Penta in! Penta flails while the fans freak out! Penta SMACKS JD off the ladder, then positions himself just right, for a LADDER DESTROYER!!! But the ladder didn’t break! The fans go nuts all over again! Everyone is down around ringside, but wait! Evans rises and the fans cheer him on! Evans sees he is alone with the ladder, then climbs! But Rusev return! Rusev shakes the ladder, Evans dangles from the clip!

Rusev YANKS Evans down, then TOSSES him out! Rusev goes back to the ladder to stand it up. The fans boo as Rusev hobbles and climbs. But Evans is back up?! Evans LEAPS in from the corner!! SUPER O G CUTTER!!! The fans are thunderous again as Evans goes for broke! Evans rises, he still has something left to give! But Penta is back! Penta uses the ladder to get up, DESTROYER!! Penta then hobbles over to the ladder, climbs up, and he reaches out! Penta grabs the belt, brings it down, and WINS!!

Winner: Penta (still WWE Intercontinental Champion)

It was a wild one for sure in this Ladder War, but that’s what WrestleMania is all about! Penta found a way to stay on top, but will he only take bigger risks from here?

WWE United States Championship: Sami Zayn VS Trick Williams w/ Lil Yachty!

It was a winding road for #BigMatchSami to get to WrestleMania, but it was mostly at Carmelo Hayes’ expense! But at the same time, #HollywoodTrick skyrocketed right to this opportunity, and he loves to rub it in Sami’s nose! But will Sami prove he can #WhoopThatTrick? Or will Trick snap the Gingerbread Man?

Lil Yachty struts his way out on stage, and he has them stop the music real quick. “Ladies and gentlemen, it is no surprise why we gather here today on this Sunday. To witness the live spectacle, a maritime blessing. Ladies and gentlemen, live in attendance in Las Vegas, and the millions watching at home, I give you the anointed one, Mr. Lemon Pepper Steppers, TRICK WILLIAMS!” Trick is again on his rotating platform while the fans all chant, “WHOOP THAT TRICK!” The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is truly championship material!

The bell rings and Sami fires hands with Trick! The fans cheer as Trick gets the edge! Trick ROCKS, whips, but Sami ducks ‘n’ dodges to LARIAT! The fans boo, but Sami bumps Trick off buckles. Sami climbs up and he rains down fists! The fans boo all the way to ten, but Sami brushes that off to CHOP Trick. Sami whips, Trick reverses, but Sami goes up and over to LARIAT Trick up and out! The fans boo again, but Sami builds speed, only for Trick to slide in and LARIAT! And LARIAT! And LEG LARIAT! Sami ducks the Trick Kick but Trick slips free of the back suplex to TRICK SLAP and NECKBREAKER! Trick kips up and the fans fire up!

The fans cheer Trick on as he cartwheels and ripcords for the BOOKEND! Cover, TWO! Sami survives, Yachty and Trick are annoyed, but Trick goes to a corner. Sami rises, Trick runs up, but into a BOOT! Then the BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Trick survives but the fans still boo Sami. Sami kicks Trick to the corner, stomps him, but stops as the ref counts. The fans rally for Trick but Sami rains down fists! Trick puts up a guard, the ref backs Sami down, and Yachty coaches Trick. Sami kicks away at Trick, the ref reprimands and the fans boo. Sami backs off, but then he goes outside to run up and CLOBBER Yachty!

The fans boo but Sami smirks as he gets another one on Yachty. Sami drags Yachty up to THROW him into barriers! The fans boo more but Sami doesn’t care, he’s doing this for his Ride Or Dies. Sami stalks Trick, POSTS him, then looms over him on the apron. Trick sputters, Sami POSTS him again! Sami talks trash as he POSTS Trick again! Sami eggs Trick on, this is WrestleMania, Trick needs to take this seriously. Sami then suplexes, APRON BRAINBUSTER! The fans boo even harder while the ref checks Trick! Sami waits on Trick as the ring count climbs. Trick stands at 5 of 10, so Sami goes outside, runs up, HELLUVA KICK against barriers!

The fans boo, and that’s the Williams Family right there! Sami leaves Trick down in front of Mom & Dad while the ring count starts against. Trick is still down at 5 of 10, then 7! Trick flounders at 8, but springs to life at 9 to roll inside the ring! The fans cheer but Sami is almost amused. Sami kicks Trick, stomps him, but the ref wants him to back off! Sami snarls, then lines up a shot. Sami wants to do Trick like he did Melo! Trick stands, but Yachty HOTSHOTS Sami! TRICK SHOT!! Cover, TWO?!? Sami survives Trick’s best, but Trick is willing to try again! The kneepad comes down, Sami stands, but Sami dodges!

Sami rolls Trick up, TWO! Trick runs up, but into a clinch! CORNER EXPLODER! Sami rises as the fans boo, and now Sami takes aim again! HELLUVA- TRICK SHOT!! Cover, TRICK WINS!!

Winner: Trick Williams, by pinfall (NEW WWE United States Champion)

Vegas is loving it! Sami got cocky and he got got! Trick has his first main roster title, and it was in his first WrestleMania match! Is the sky the limit for Trick Willy now?

Las Vegas Street Fight: Dominik Mysterio VS “Demon” Finn Balor!

“Dirty” Dom was so against fighting the darker side of his former amigo that they had to up the ante to get him to agree! Leading an army of masked men atop a motorized throne, will the King of the Luchadores prove he is also the King of Street Fights? Or will the AAA Mega Campeon go through Hell with The Demon in Sin City?

The bell rings and Finn crawls, scaring Dom already! The fans cheer as Finn keeps his eyes locked on Dom. Dom steps back inside, but he’s still wary of Finn. Dom runs up, Finn dodges to trip Dom and rain down fists! The fans cheer as Finn ELBOWS Dom, DOUBLE CHOPS him, then CHOPS in the corner! Finn whisp Dom corner to corner, CHOPS again, then whips. Dom KICKS Finn, but Finn just growls! Finn blocks a kick, trips Dom, then spins him around so he can stomp away at the ropes! The fans cheer as Finn storms around. Finn throws off the kit, and uses it to CLOBBER Dom! Dom falls to the floor while the fans cheer.

Finn goes outside, SMACKS Dom off Spanish commentary, then finds a kendo stick! The fans cheer as Finn SMACKS Dom down low! Dom sputters against the desk, but Finn SMACKS him again! Finn puts Dom in, snarls as he goes searching again, and he brings out a TABLE! Vegas cheers that, but then Dom DIVES onto Finn! The fans boo but Dom grabs the kendo stick to SMACK Finn! And SMACKS again, and again, and again! Dom pushes Finn into the ring, soaks up the cheers and jeers, then puts the kendo stick in the ring. Dom also puts chair after chair into the ring, then takes aim. Dom JAMS Finn up with a chair!

Dom JAMS Finn in the back, too, then puts the chair back on the pile. The fans are torn as Dom aims from the apron, SLINGSHOT SENTON! Dom rains down fists, then stomps away like Finn would! The fans are still torn but there are a lot more boos this time. Dom sits the chairs up facing each other, then brings Finn around. Dom gives some Latino Heat, but Finn turns it into a GOURD BUSTER on the chairs! Then a SLINGBLADE! Dom flounders around, Finn aims from the corner, and runs up, buts into a SUPERKICK! Dom DROPKICKS Finn onto ropes! The fans boo as Dom dials it up, 619! Finn falls, Dom climbs, FROG SPLASH! Cover, TWO?!?

The fans fire up as Finn snarls and grits his teeth. Dom takes a swing with a chair, but Finn ducks it! Finn gets Dom in the EYE OF THE HURRICANE! Then SHOTGUN DROPKICK! Dom hits buckles, stumbles and crawls, but Finn reloads! SHOTGUN into another corner! Dom falls and now Finn climbs up! The fans cheer as Finn goes up, up, and COUP- NO, Dom dodges, then CLOBBERS Finn with a chair! Cover, TWO!! Finn survives again and Dom is stunned! The fans rally while Dom goes out and fetches the table! Dom brings the table over, slides it into the ring, then props it up against the corner. Finn snarls as he rises up, but Dom has another chair!

But Finn ROCKS Dom first! And fires off in the corner! Finn whips, Dom reverses, but Finn stops short of the table! Then SLINGBLADE for Dom! Dom flounders, Finn aims, and the fans fire up as Finn runs in, but into a SUPERKICK! Dom THROWS Finn through the table! The fans fire up as Finn stands, Dom SMACKS him with the chair! Finn ends up on ropes, then Dom puts the chair around his neck! Dial it up, FULL METAL 619!! Finn is down, Dom goes up, FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO?!? Not even that was enough to stop Demon Finn?! Dom grabs a chair, and he SMACKS Finn again! And again! And again!

Dom fires off on Finn with that chair until he wears it out! Dom then goes outside, looks under the ring, and he brings out another table! The fans cheer that, and Dom slides the table into the ring. Dom sets that table up in the drop zone, but the table fights him on it. The fans boo Dom not knowing how to set up furniture, and now Finn rises! The fans fire up as Finn LARIATS! Finn grabs a chair, and he SMACKS Dom! And SMACKS him again, and again! And again! And again! Finn has Dom down in a corner, but he drags him over to put the chair around Dom’s neck! Finn loads up, FULL METAL SHOTGUN! Dom hits buckles while the chair tumbles!

Finn puts Dom on the table, goes up the corner, and the fans all stand up to see the COUP DE GRACE through the table! Cover, FINN WINS!

Winner: “The Demon” Finn Balor, by pinfall

Whether or not Dom went through Hell, he went through that table! Finn wins and stands over Dom, is this the end of their story? And if so, what will be next for Finn?

WWE Women’s Championship: Jade Cargill VS Rhea Ripley!

The Storm has reigned on the WWE ever since she ended #TiffyTime, but now she’s up against someone known for her brutality! But will #ThatB1tch make sure to leave Rhea Jaded? Or will Mami find a way to get back on top?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who proves themselves the alpha female of WWE!

The bell rings and the fans rally as the two circle. They both smirk, then they tie up. They’re in a deadlock, but Jade’s height becomes her leverage. Rhea turns things around to put Jade on the ropes, but Jade turns it right back! The ref counts, Jade argues with him, then she shoves Rhea. Rhea swings, Jade dodges, and Jade RUNS Rhea over! Jade scoops Rhea to SLAM her down! Jade talks trash but the fans boo. Rhea rises up slowly but Jade short arm- NO, Rhea ducks the lariat to ripcord and HOOK KICK! Then atomic SLAM! Rhea runs to DROPKICK Jade out of the ring! The fans fire up with Rhea, she drags Jade up, but Jade HOTSHOTS the arm!

The ref reprimands but Jade runs in and RAMS Rhea! Rhea rebounds, into the SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! The fans rally for Rhea but Jade pulls Rhea’s hair as she talks trash. The ref reprimands, Jade tells him to shut up, then she whips Rhea to a corner. Jade stomps a mudhole in, but she stops as the ref counts. The fans rally for Rhea again but Jade TOSSES Rhea out. Jade then storms out after Rhea, HIP DROPS, then drags her up. Jade tells the cameraman to move, and she THROWS Rhea into barriers! Jade soaks up the heat as she stands over Rhea. Jade then refreshes the ring count, wanting to beat Rhea properly.

Jade SMACKS Rhea off the apron, taunts the ref over the count, then puts Rhea in at 5 of 10. Jade stands Rhea up for a BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Jade is frustrated already as Rhea toughs it out. The fans rally, and Rhea smiles? Jade is amused by Rhea egging her on. Rhea swings, but Jade catches her into a CROSSFACE! Jade shows she has technical skills, but Rhea pries at the grip! The fans rally as Rhea fights up, up, and powers through to a fireman’s carry! The fans fire up for Rhea’s feat of strength! But Jade CLUBS away on Rhea! Rhea drops, but then EDDY GORDO KICKS! Jade flounders away while the fans cheer!

Rhea and Jade both slowly rise up, and Rhea smiles again. Rhea eggs Jade on, then TACKLES her! Rhea rains down fists, but Jade turns it around to throw hands in return! Rhea kicks Jade away, Jade fires a forearm, and Rhea fights back! The fans cheer Rhea but boo Jade as the forearms go back and forth! Jade ROCKS Rhea, Rhea ROCKS Jade, repeat! Neither woman backs down, and Jade BOOTS Rhea! Rhea rebounds and ENZIGIRIS! Rhea hurries to Electric Chair Lift Jade up! Jade fights but Rhea SLAMS her down! Cover, TWO! Now Rhea is frustrated as Jade toughs it out. Rhea brings Jade around, pump handles, but Jade fights free with a HIP TOSS!

Jade runs, Rhea TOSSES her through ropes, but Jade ROCKS Rhea! Jade slingshots up and over, but Rhea ELBOWS her! Jade SUPERKICKS, then SPINEBUSTERS! High stack, TWO! Rhea survives again and Jade is furious! Jade drags Rhea up as she chicken wings the arms, but Rhea victory rolls through! TWO! Jade escapes, then pops Rhea up! But Rhea fires hands! Rhea RANAS Jade away, then runs up to SLIDING KICK! Jade sputters but Rhea hauls her up! Oh, NOW The Baddies show up! Michin distracts the ref while B-Fab saves Jade! Rhea DECKS Fab, then scares Mia off! Rhea runs up, but Jade dodges, Rhea POSTS herself!

Jade storms up but the ref has her back off! That just lets Michin BOOT Rhea into the PSOT! The fans boo these Baddie bandits but Jade Electric Chair Lifts Rhea! ONE WINGED ANGEL?!? Cover, TWO?!?! Rhea survives the screw job and The Baddies are shocked! The fans are thunderous, but Jade talks trash. Jade tells the ref to back off, then she TOSSES Rhea out. Jade storms out but the erf stops her. Jade tells her Baddies to do something then, but the ref spots them creeping up! Mia & Fab say they weren’t doing anything, but HERE COMES IYO! The fans cheer as The Genius still has Mami’s back!

Iyo dodges Mia to then send her into Fab! Then Iyo handsprings at Fab, SHOTEI! Then ELBOW and SHOTEI for Mia! Iyo goes up, up, and ASAI MOONSAULTS The Baddies down! Jade is pissed, but Rhea ROCKS her! Pump handle, RIP- NO, Jade pops free! PUMP KICK!! Chicken wings, but Rhea pops free now! RIPTIDE!! Cover, RHEA WINS!!

Winner: Rhea Ripley, by pinfall (NEW WWE Women’s Champion)

Vegas cheers, because this is the first time a pair beats three of a kind! #RheYo celebrates, will Mami never come down from being on top again?

John Cena’s back again!

“What a moment with Brock Lesnar and Oba Femi earlier. This WrestleMania night has been packed with moments. This WrestleMania night is also packed with people. It is officially time to announce tonight’s attendance! Official attendance for night two is, 55,255! Which makes the overall weekend attendance 106,072!” The fans cheer and pyro goes off, but Cena says this is a bittersweet moment. His night is over as our host. He can’t tell us how much it means for him to be here, and wants to give us a heartfelt thanks. But wait, THE MIZ & KIT WILSON are here?! The Hollywood A-Lister says Cena has NO IDEA the void he has had to fill!

Miz is THE locker room leader now! He is teaching everyone the three principles of MIZ: Master, Inspire, and Zone-In! #MizKit step into the ring as Miz complains he didn’t get a Mania Moment last year, and he is NOT leaving until he gets his moment this year! The fans are torn, but Cena says good to see you, Miz. And this is? The fans laugh but Kit still shakes Cena’s hand. Cena says they want a Mania Moment, right? Yes? Good! Then go ahead. Miz says thank you! Watch and learn, because Miz- “YOU! ARE! CURSED!” Danhausen is here, too! The fans cheer the Very Nice, Very Evil Overlord has MINI MINIONS!

The Minihausens all strike a pose, then keep on dancing. And then Danhausen drives up in the Jeephausen! Is it made out of a casket? Well, that aside, Danhausen drives on down the ramp and to ringside. Even Cena isn’t sure what to make of this! The Minihausens go all around ringside, and commentary asks they please not curse anyone. Danhausen waves to the fans as he steps into the ring, then takes the mic to say, “Thank you, Nicholas.” Nicholashausen? Danhausen greets the humans of Las Vegas, HE is Danhausen! Very Nice, Very Evil, and he is here for WrestleMania! Speaking of which… Danhausen has something to say… to CENA?!

Cena is worried what this could mean. Danhausen wants to shake Cena’s hand! He’s a fanhausen! Miz says don’t shake that guy’s hand! That idiot is ruining the WrestleMania Moment of the NEW GOAT, and the Future GOAT! Miz tells the Minihausens that the Wizard of Oz production is down the street! The fans boo that, and Miz asks what they’re even looking at. Kit! Kit steps up to say, “YOU! ARE! TOXIC!” Then he SHOVES the random Minihausen down! Danhausen says “Famous Amos,” GET HIM! Amos steps up to WEENIE PUNCH Kit! DOG PILE~! They all jump on Kit and force him out of the ring!

Miz drags Minihausens off Kit, but Dan WEENIE PUNCHES Miz! Even those “tiny balls” took a big hit! The fans cheer as Danhausen looks to Cena, and Cena says go ahead. YOU CANT’ SEEHAUSEN! FIVE KNUCKLE “YOU! ARE! CURSED!” SHUFFLE! Then the Minihausens drag Miz away! Cena raises Danhausen’s hand in victory, then Danhausen tells Cena “You Can’t See Me!” The pyro goes off for Danhausen’s disappearing act but uh, not enough, and it mostly startles the Minihausens. Dan scurries away to hide under the ring! The fans cheer all the same, and Cena says that was great! Rretired life is awesome.

But WrestleMania is about the unexpected, right? But it is also the Grandest Stage of Them All. And there is no showcase then our MAAAAAIN EVENT~! But who proves they are truly the Best in the World?

WWE World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk VS Roman Reigns!

There are feuds, there are rivalries, and there are even grudges, and then there’s this. The Second City Saint claimed he had nothing to do with The Shield, but he absolutely did, and then used that to take credit for what The Tribal Chief one day became. Roman always hated Punk for that hypocrisy, but Punk always hated, even envied, Roman for being born into what Punk had to fight for. These two will always be connected because of their past, but whose future will be atop the mountain as THE WWE World Heavyweight Champion?

Roman has another operatic version of his theme, with golden piano and drums playing live. He raises his finger to the sky for the pyro, then takes his time going to the ring, just to raise his finger again and get more pyro. As for Punk, he gets a cinematic video of Vegas, of him standing on top of Allegiant Stadium, and of his career. Then in a white jacket dedicated to his dog, Larry, and wife, AJ Lee, Punk walks to gorilla. The song says it all: He may be no one from nowhere at all, but on the back of the jacket, he is still king! The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who makes the other ACKNOWLEDGE HIM!

The bell rings and the fans are already fired up as they duel between “C M PUNK!” and “O T C!” Roman and Punk step up, stare down, and talk a little bit of trash. Punk seems to chuckle but Roman is not amused. The two finally circle, and they tie up. They’re in a deadlock until Punk gets a headlock, then slips around to hammerlock, wrench, and he shoves Roman. Punk complains about the baby oil and now Roman chuckles. Roman and Punk reset, tie up again, and Punk headlocks again. Roman powers up and out, but Punk RUNS him over! The fans cheer as Punks mocks Roman by raising his finger! Roman gets in Punks face, Punk shoves but Roman shoves back.

Punk headlocks a third time while the fans duel. Roman powers up and out again, then ELBOWS Punk down! Roman eggs Punk on, Punk gets in his face, and they shove again. Punk SLAPS Roman, then headlocks! The fans rally as Roman powers up and out, but Punk RUNS him over again! Things speed up, Roman hurdles and fireman’s carries, SAMOAN DROP! The fans fire up as Roman storms around Punk. Punk rises, Roman stomps him, and Roman HEADBUTTS! Punk CHOPS! Roman brushes that off and DECKS Punk! The fans cheer for “Roman, Roman Reigns~!” and he nods. Roman then bumps Punk off buckles, and runs him corner to corner for more buckles!

Punk staggers around, Roman runs up, and Roman LARIATS Punk up and out! The fans are torn as Roman raises his finger to the sky again. Roman goes out to fetch Punk, and POSTS him! Punk staggers around the way but rolls back inside. Roman pursues but Punk rolls out the other side, only for Roman to go after him! Punk blocks the smack to SMACK Roman off the desk! Punk ROCKS Roman, ROCKS him again, then whips, but Roman reverses! Punk hits barriers hard! Roman pushes Punk, refreshes the ring count, then he ROCKS Punk. Punk staggers, Roman ROCKS him again, and again! Roman SMACKS Punk off English commentary now!

Roman brings Punk off the desk to TOSS him into the crowd! The fans cheer as Roman again refreshes the count. Roman stands on the desk to raise his finger to the sky. The fans ACKNOWLEDGE Roman, then Roman goes out after Punk. Punk BODY BLOWS then fires fast hands! Then he THROWS Roman over the barriers, and FLYING LARIATS! The fans fire up for Punk now as he stands on the desk and raises his finger to the sky! Punk does his straightedge X, but Roman ROCKET LAUNCHES Punk to the floor! Punk writhes, the ref reprimands, but Roman drags Punk up and into the ring. Roman pushes Punk to a cover, ONE!!

Roman is annoyed as Punk shows his toughness. Roman then smirks and dares Punk to mock him again, see what happens! This ain’t no game, this ain’t Twitter! Roman ROCKS Punk, ROCKS him again, but Punk BODY BLOWS! Roman ROCKS Punk, Punk ROCKS Roman, but Punk rebounds to BOOT Roman! Roman BOOTS Punk on the rebound! Cover, TWO! Roman stalks Punk to a corner, then puts him through the ropes to CHOKE him! Roman UPPERCUTS Punk and Punk teetertotters in the ropes! The fans rally and duel as Roman paces, then he comes back to bring Punk out of the ropes. Roman smothers Punk in a corner before he LARIATS!

Roman LARIATS again, and again, and the fans count along. Roman picks up speed towards TEN! Then Roman runs, and LEAPING LARIATS Punk down! Cover, TWO! Roman is annoyed, but he talks some trash on the Punk fans before he locks ‘n’ loads. SUPERMAN- NO, Punk dodges ands ends Roman into buckles! Punk LARIATS Roman down, then goes up the corner! Roman stands, so Punk CROSSBODIES! Punk rains down fists, then hears the cheers and jeers! Punk ROCKS Roman again, JABS, JABS, then whips. Punk drops down to then CALF KICK Roman down! Roman flounders to a corner but Punk is laser focused!

Punk runs up on Roman to SHINING WIZARD! Then BULLDOG! The fans fire up for Punk, and he says night-night! Punk waits on Roman as he stands back up, and then spins him into the fireman’s carry! But Roman fires elbows! Roman POSTS Punk! Punk sputters while Roman goes to the other corner, then comes back! SUPERMAN PUNCH! Cover, TWO! Punk survives but anyone who knows Roman’s move set knows he has cards to play. The fans rally as Roman rises and Punk crawls. Punk goes back to the corner while Roman fires the fans up more. Roman lets out the “OOOAH~!” But SHINING WIZARD hits first!!

Punk grins as he knows Roman as well as anyone! Punk keeps moving, and he SHINING WIZARDS again! Then a short arm LARIAT! Punk drags Roman up again, for another short arm LARIAT! And then a NECKBREAKER! The fans fire up as Roman staggers around, and Punk LARIATS Roman up and out now! Roman hobbles as he lands on his feet, but Punk DIVES! Direct hit and Roman hits the Spanish announce desk! Punk climbs up, flexes on Roman quite literally, then brings Roman around to SMACK off English commentary! The fans cheer and duel as Punk SMACKS Roman off the steel steps!

Punk puts Roman on the desk, HAMMERS away on Roman, then goes back to the ring. The ref reprimands, then starts the ring count. But Punk says forget that! Punk goes up the corner! The fans are fired up already, but Roman gets away from the desk! Roman goes up after Punk, Punk hits Roman but Roman ROCKS Punk! Punk drops to the apron but he still brawls with Roman! Punk ELBOWS Roman, Roman ELBOWS Punk! Punk BOOTS Roman, Roman BOOTS Punk! Roman then reels Punk in, and he hoists Punk up the corner! Roman CLUBS Punk, then THROWS him into the Tree of Woe! Punk dangles and Roman grins.

Roman taunts Punk as Punk swipes at him but can’t reach. Roman then throws hands on Punk, and the fans count along! Roman stops at five so that he can lock ‘n’ load! SUPERMAN PUNCH OF WOE! Then another SUPERMAN PUNCH OF WEO! The ref reprimands but Roman hits a THIRD SUPERMAN PUNCH OF WOE! Roman rolls into the ring, but just to refresh the count again. Roman pulls the steel steps apart, but the ref reprimands! Roman hates Punk, but he RAMS Punk down with the steps!! The ref’s prerogative lets this one slide, but he tells Roman he is on thin ice! Punk flops out of the Tree, forehead bloodied from the steps!

Roman says this is what happens when you go to war! He clears off the Spanish desk to then drag the bloodied Punk over. The fans duel as Roman says this is the POS fans love! Roman reels Punk in, lifts him up, and while it’s just Roman, it is still a SHIELD BOMB through the desk!! The fans are thunderously losing their minds while Punk is down in the wreckage! The ref checks on Punk, but Punk manages to sit up, papers stuck to his back. Roman drags Punk up and tells the old man that he’s not done yet! Roman puts Punk in the ring, “OOOAH~!” And then Roman builds speed, but Punk fireman’s carries?! GO TO SLEEP!!! Cover, TWO!!!

The fans are electric as one, Punk hit GTS outta nowhere, and two, Roman survived it! Punk manages to stand first while Roman clutches his face. “This is Awesome!” as Punk hauls Roman up and fireman’s carries again! But Roman fights free, shoves, then dodges! SPEAR!! Cover, TWO?!? Punk survives and shocks everyone! “This is Awesome!” but Roman is beside himself! Punk sits up, but Roman CLOBBERS him! Then DRIBBLES him off the mat! The fans are torn down the middle but Roman stops to calm down. Roman smiles, and then says night-night to Punk! The fans are again dueling as Roman drags Punk to his feet.

Roman throws hands, but Punk hits back! Punk wobbles, but Roman HEADBUTTS him! Roman again says night-night, Punk! Roman stands Punk up, fireman’s carries, and he grins as he raises his finger to the sky. GO TO- NO! Punk blocks the knee to ROUNDHOUSE! Cover, TWO!! Roman survives, the fans fire up, but Punk just focuses on standing back up. Punk watches Roman flounder, then he says night-night to Roman! Punk hobbles as he locks ‘n’ loads! The fans fire up as Punk even hits the three point stance! Roman stands up, SPUER PUNK PUNCH!! Cover, TWO!! Roman survives but Punk HAMMERS away on Roman’s head!

Punk staggers over to a corner, goes outside, and he spots an ula fala?! Punk takes that from the fan wearing it, puts it on, and he goes to the corner! Punk is further taunting the Tribal Chief as he lets out an “OOOAH~!” Punk SPEARS- BUT ROMAN SMOTHERS IT!! GUILLOTINE FACELOCK!! Roman squeezes Punk, SWINGS him around, but Punk slips around to roll Roman up! TWO!!! Punk gets the ula fala off so he can clamp on an ANACONDA VICE!! Roman flails, reaches out, claws at the mat, but Punk pulls on the hold! Roman HAMMERS Punk’s head from below, then chinbars him off the hold, and back into the GUILLOTINE!!

Punk flails but he’s in the body scissors! Roman squeezes tight as Punk pries at the hold! Punk pops the scissors open, headstands, then pops free! And he steps through! Roman fights the Sharpshooter with fists! Punk wobbles, then falls, INTO THE GUILLOTINE!!! Roman squeezes tight but Punk still has some life in him! The fans are torn, but Punk jackknife bridges! TWO!! Both men stand, DOUBLE LARIATS take them both down! And the fans are thunderous! “This is Awesome!” as both men rise up and talk trash at each other. They go to center, and Punk JABS! Roman ROCKS Punk! Punk ROCKS Roman!

The fans duel as hard as they have all night, and then Punk Mongolian Chops! Roman HEADBUTTS! Punk CHOPS! Roman CHOPS! Roman ROCKS, Punk ROCKS, repeat! Neither man is backing down but they’re both on spaghetti legs! Punk KNEES Roman in the head, Roman KENES Punk in the head! Punk ROCKS Roman, but Roman ROCKS Punk! Both men drop to their knees but the fans fire up again! Punk undoes the tape on his hands, he’s getting real serious now! Punk THROWS the tape at Roman, but Roman just looks at it. The ref gets that out of the ring, and PUNK LOW BLOWS ROMAN!?!?

Punk fireman’s carries, GO TO SLEEP!!! Cover, TWO?!?!?! Roman survives and shocks everyone, ESPECIALLY Punk! Punk ELBOW DROPS Roman, ELBOW DROPS again, and the fans are hoping these two “Fight Forever!” as Punk ELBOWS DROPS again! Roman sputters, the fans sing as they duel, but Punk kicks Roman out of the ring. Punk stalks Roman to the English desk, and SMACKS him off it! Punk puts Roman on the desk, then he climbs up the corner! Punk wanted this earlier, but is it worth the risk now?! Punk takes aim, hail to the king with the SUPER MACHO ELBOW down through the DESK!!!

Las Vegas is going nuts all over again as the ref hurries to check both men! Punk stands, says that’s for the fans right there in the front row, then he drags Roman up. Punk puts Roman in the ring, crawls his way over, but Roman is crawling away to avoid any cover. Punk drags Roman up, he wants to top this off first! Fireman’s carry and GO! TO! SLEEP!!! Roman flops against ropes, staggers, and then falls back into the fireman’s carry! Punk’s done this before, and he looks to do this again! A deadlift into another GO- NO!! Punk’s own body gives out! The fans duel harder than ever, maybe as hard as they can, as both men stand. SPEAR!!! But Roman can’t make the cover!

Roman and Punk sit up again, both men running on fumes and anger. Punk takes a swing but whiffs as he falls over! Punk sits up again to pie face Roman, so Roman runs, runs, and SPEARS!!! Cover, ROMAN WINS!!!

Winner: Roman Reigns, by pinfall (NEW WWE World Heavyweight Champion)

A historic ELEVENTH WrestleMania main event for the OTC, and this might’ve been the best one yet! If not historically, then personally, because Roman took the world title away from the man he’s hated for over a decade! Roman once again reigns in the WWE, will this be his most powerful era yet?

My Thoughts:

An awesome night two for Mania, though not for ESPN Unlimited, that thing is still janky. Forget any talk of ESPN having buyer’s remorse when it comes to WWE, I’m having buyer’s remorse with ESPN! The biggest weekend for them and WWE, along with all the other sports going on right now, and ESPN can’t even get their app’s act together. But not even all that jank could stop tonight from being super exciting and entertaining. I laughed so hard during the Danhausen segment, WWE has struck gold with him and even the duo of #MizKit. And of course, what an awesome opener of Lesnar VS Oba, and I’m so grateful Oba won.

Lesnar leaving his gloves and boots was quite the surprise, though. He even put up the “this is real” X so Heyman understood this wasn’t just story. At least, I sure hope so, Lesnar doesn’t seem the kind to do something like this flippantly. As I said in the play by play, if this really is Lesnar’s final match, then #ThankYouBrock, ups and downs and everything in between. As for Oba, how is he not a contender for a title? He just conquered The Conqueror, and on par with things like Lesnar VS Goldberg. I wonder, though, if this leads to Oba VS Gunther first, as Gunther still has a favor to cash in, and he would certainly want the world title now that he beat Rollins.

Great Six Pack Ladder Match, but scary at moments, too. Well, that seems par for the course with any ladder match these days, but it seems everyone walked away from tonight’s match without serious injury. Everyone got to shine, and I really liked Rey’s Deadpool gear. Penta retaining made sense, though, as we can certainly see Penta feud with any if not all five challengers in 1v1 feuds for the rest of the year. My choice for the first challenge, aka Backlash, would be Dragon Lee. That’d make for some great lucha libre on Raw, as well. They can even build this as them teaming up against other would-be challengers, and then Penta names Dragon as the challenger out of respect.

Great stuff in Sami VS Trick, though something about that match felt short. And that’s on a weekend where fans are pointing out match notoriously short match lengths on what’s supposed to be the best weekend of the whole year. Yachty getting involved so that Trick wins the title works in story. I certainly expect Sami to protest and demand a rematch, just not sure if it happens on SmackDown or at Backlash. I clearly missed the part in the Countdown Show where things were escalated to a Street Fight, but Dom and Finn did a great job with the new stipulation. Great win for Finn, he could also call his shot for a title, and seeing Finn interact with Gunther again, and even Oba, would be a lot of fun.

Jade VS Rhea was really good, certainly better than the build, and I did appreciate the tactic of Mia & Fab showing up later as Jade’s trump cards. But naturally, Iyo showed up to counter, and a great win for Rhea here. Not sure what follows, but they really need to let the Iyo-Asuka-Kairi story finish first. Maybe they can blend the stories, and we somehow circle back to Rhea VS Iyo, but “as friends/with respect.” Rhea still needs that 1v1 win over Iyo, doesn’t she?

And then Punk VS Roman might’ve just saved the entire WrestleMania weekend, because that was indeed awesome. Great table spots, great bit with Punk getting bloodied, and Roman even innovated by having Punk in a Tree of Woe so he could Superman Punch him as many times as he wanted. I won’t say Roman winning was a complete surprise, but something in story did make me think Punk would win to finally have a WrestleMania main event victory, not just appearance. Third time’s the charm for Punk, perhaps? Well, we don’t even know if Mania will still be in Saudi Arabia next year or has to move…

My Score: 9.2/10