The Vanity Project is about to get #LuchaLit UP!

Lince Dorado’s amigos in the LWO are ready to Evolve, but will Evolve Champion, Jackson Drake, stand tall with Swipe Right in their Six Man Tag?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Edris Enofe VS Jamar Hampton; Edris wins.
• Layla Diggs VS Jin Tala; Jin wins.
• Six Man Tag: Lince Dorado, Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde VS The Vanity Project; Lince, Cruz & Wilde win.

PLAY BY PLAY

Edris Enofe VS Jamar Hampton!

When Dante Chen showed up in Evolve, The Epitome of Excellence to offense to what was simply a coincidental parallel: both men were hurt, both men are back, and both men want to Evolve. Edris would knock Dante down, but Jamar stood up for him. Will Edris show the “new guy” that he isn’t cut out for this? Or will the EOE lose to LFG?

The bell rings and the fans rally. The two circle, they tie up, and Edris waistlocks. Edris then headlocks, but the fans rally behind Jamar. Jamar powers up and out, then he RAMS Edris! Edris staggers, rebounds, but Jamar RUNS him over! The fans cheer as Jamar shows off the pecs. Edris snarls and storms up on Jamar. They tie up, Jamar powers Edris back, but Edris turns things around. Edris has Jamar in the corner, the ref counts, and Edris backs up. Edris shoves Jamar, but Jamar SHOVES Edris! The fans rally, Edris runs back up, but Jamar blocks the kick! Jamar scoops, Edris slips free, and Edris ROCKS Jamar in the back!

Edris headlocks, Jamar powers up and out, but Edris RAMS low! And then jumps to AX HANDLE! Edris runs, Jamar hurdles and then CROSSBODIES! Jamar watches Edris scramble to a corner, and he runs in, to STINGER SPLASH! Then scoop and SLAM! Cover, TWO! Edris stays in this but Jamar stalks him to the ropes. Jamar waistlocks, Edris holds the ropes, and Edris takes a swing! Jamar ducks the elbow, whips Edris, but Edris avoids the dropkick! Edris LARIATS, then DOUBLE STMOPS! And DOUBLE STOMPS! And then DOUBLE STOMPS on Jamar’s back! One more DOUBLE STOMP, and a cover, TWO!

The fans rally but Edris stays on Jamar with a chinlock. Edris also traps the arms but Jamar endures. The fans rally more but Edris grinds his forearm into Jamar’s face. Jamar fights, gets an arm free, and he rises up! Edris is a backpack, Jamar powers him back, but Edris puts him in the corner! Edris stomps Jamar, then goes up the ropes to BOOT Jamar down! The fans boo but Edris adds a DDT! Cover, TWO! Edris clamps on a headscissors and he squeezes tight! The fans rally as Jamar endures again. Jamar fights around, and he manages to Electric Chair Lift! But Edris slips around to facelock!

Jamar still powers up, lifts Edris again, but Edris throws down elbows! Edris runs, but Jamar catches him! And BACKDROPS him away! The fans fire up and Jamar roars! Jamar DECKS Edris! And DECKS him again! Edris swings, misses, and Jamar DROPKICKS! The fans fire up with Jamar, he aims from a corner, and he runs to DIVING SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Edris survives but Jamar grits his teeth. The fans rally, Jamar fireman’s carries, but Edris fires elbows! Jamar squats, but he lifts Edris back up! But Edris CLAWS Jamar’s face! Edris goes to a corner, BOOTS Jamar, then dodges the splash!

Edris stomps Jamar to the apron, then climbs up the corner. Edris CLUBS Jamar, brings him up, but Jamar suplexes!? Edris slips free to be safe on the apron. They brawl across the corner, and Edris kicks a leg out! Edris HOTSHOTS Jamar off the crossbar! Edris hurries in, reels Jamar into the STRAITJACKET NECKBREAKER! Cover, Edris wins!

Winner: Edris Enofe, by pinfall

Edris is no longer playing nice, he just bent the rules to snatch this win. Will the Epitome of Excellence show you can’t spell Evolve without the E O E?

Stevie Turner talks with Lince Dorado.

The Prime Minister of Evolve says she is glad to have the Golden Lynx here in Evolve. He has really elevated the show. But when he said he was bringing friends to Evolve, she had no idea what kind of strays he’d bring in. But this, the LWO, that is fantastic! Cruz Del Toro says gracias to Stevie, and he tells Lince, “Carnal, as Latinos, we always wanna be there to support our raza.” And Joaquin Wilde adds that the OG Evolve was so important to his own journey that to come here and back up Lince is full circle. Plus, the LWO wanted a firsthand look at the talent that could springboard from WWE Evolve right into Raw and SmackDown.

Lince hopes that what “Senorita Stevie” said to his homie, Sean Legacy, about winning the gauntlet was true. If he had won, he’d be in title contention. So now, with his pack backing him, Lince hopes the same deal can be made for her favorite gatito. Cuz he is about to make Evolve… Lucha Lit! Vaminos! The LWO is ready, but will that main event be a fiesta? Or will Jackson Drake, Brad Baylor & Ricky Smokes make it all about the Vanity Project?

#AdrenalineDrip speaks.

Cappuccino Jones talks about this one time when he and Jack Cartwheel were going to hang out, and Jones is running late because he needs his coffee. He FaceTimes with Jack, and he asks if Jack wants “a drip.” Jack says no thanks, he’s already got so much adrenaline flowing, he can’t take it. So they thought on it, and it just made sense: Adrenaline Drip! They started this journey as individuals, but have been brought together for a reason. Their energies compliment each other, and that gave them great tag team chemistry. The goal now: Evolve Tag Team Championships! We’ve got the men’s title, the women’s title, so c’mon now!

Cappuccino & Cartwheel hope Stevie Turner is listening to this! These two will keep rolling, sipping, and flipping. They aren’t afraid to be themselves, and they want the people to feel something! When and where will we see these two, and all the tag teams of Evolve, go for that gold?

Layla Diggs VS Jin Tala!

This was meant to be a match against Aria Bennett, but the Evolve mystery attack struck again. However, Layla was in luck as the LFG recruit was willing to step up and step in the ring. Will Layla dig deep and get the win? Or will it be 2-0 for the Pinay Powergirl?

The bell rings and the fans rally as the two circle. They tie up, Layla wrenches and hammerlocks, but Jin headlocks and slips around to hit the takeover. Layla headscissors, Jin kips free, but Layla hits the takeover. Jin headscissors, Layla kips free, and the fans applaud. The two shake hands to show sportsmanship, and they tie up again. Layla wrenches, wristlocks, but Jin rolls, kips up, and wrenches back. Layla fights around, uses the ropes to flip through, then she wrenches and whips Jin to a corner. Jin kicks low, sunset flips, but Layla handsprings through! The fans fire up and Layla hits a basement BLOCKBUSTER!

The fans cheer, and Layla whips Jin to ropes. Layla catches Jin’s crossbody for a POWERSLAM! And STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Jin stays in this but Layla stays confident. Layla runs up, Jin TOSSES her, but Layla flips up and over to land safe on the apron! But Jin ROCKS Layla first! Jin wrenches and HOTSHOTS the arm! Layla flounders into the ring and Jin AX KICKS her down! Jin then grabs the arm, hammerlocks it, and RAMS Layla into buckles! Layla writhes but Jin stands her up. Jin hammerlocks again and RAMS her into more buckles! Jin brings Layla up again, KICKS and wrenches to WRING the arm!

Jin then clamps on, FUJIWARA! Layla endures, the fans rally up, and Layla fights to her feet. Layla fires forearms, but Jin kicks low! Jin WRINGS the arm, clamps on again, but Layla fights up. Jin clinches, scoops, and hits a BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Layla toughs it out but Jin shows no mercy with her LEG HOOK FULL NELSON! Jin pushes Layla down, pulling the arms back with those legs, but Layla powers up to push back! Cover, ONE! Layla is free but Jin is right on her. Layla fires body shots, dodges a haymaker, and she RUNS Jin over! And RUNS her over again! LEG LARIAT! The fans fire up with Layla while Jin flounders!

Jin goes to a corner, Layla handsprings corner to corner to RAM Jin! Layla pushes Jin, gets moving again, and SCISSOR KICKS! Cover, TWO! Jin survives and the fans are stunned! Layla hurries to get Jin up again, scoop and- NO, Jin pulls hair!? Then she CHOP BLOCKS! Jin stomps the arm, then clamps on, BAKUNAWA BOND!! Layla taps, Jin wins!

Winner: Jin Tala, by submission

Two matches, two wins, and all by submission! But Jin also showed some venom in this match with how viciously she went after that arm. Chuey Martinez interviews Jin ringside to say that even Stevie Turner knows Jin is a huge signee for Evolve. But what was up with the hair pulling? Jin says all she’s been doing is applying what the LFG coaches taught her: Win, and keep on winning. That is her goal, because she has been kicking ass all over Evolve! The fans cheer that, but Chuey asks what “kicking ass all over Evolve” entails. Jin says, “Collecting wins. Keep up, Chuey.” Jin heads out, all that the sass rather surprising, but will she shock the world by taking over Evolve?

The Vanity Project talks backstage.

Brad Baylor says Ricky Smokes’ veins are poppin’, bro! Smokes thanks Brad for noticing, but Zayda Steel wants the boys to understand something: They’re facing the LWO! Jackson Drake says he’s not afraid of the LWO, check out the biceps, baby! Zayda says yeah, LWO should stand for “Let’s Watch Out!” Bryce Donovan says maybe on Mondays, the LWO are big. But The Vanity Project runs Wednesdays. Brad says hundos, big Bryce! But more than anything, Brad can’t wait to show out. Smokes can’t wait to take Lince by his mask, and SMASH him right in his stupid face! Jackson asks what he’ll do to “Dumb ‘n’ Dumber.”

Smokes says he’ll take Joaquin and Cruz by the face and SMASH them together! But wait, listen. Lince & LWO have some decent experience, and they also have accolades. But the Vanity Project is going to show them this is a new generation, and that this is a young man’s game! Tonight is about them! Tonight is about vanity. V’s up! They all put their hands in, but will tonight end up more about lucha?

Stevie Turner is in the ring.

The Evolve PM already has mic and contract folder in hand as she stands at the table. Then Kali Armstrong makes her entrance, followed by Natalya’s. The fans cheer as all three women stand in the ring, and they all take their seats. Stevie says next week, Kali Armstrong defends her WWE Evolve Women’s Championship for the first time ever! But she isn’t just defending it against anyone. She defends against multi-time champion, the future hall of famer, the BOAT (Best Of All Time) herself, Natalya! The fans applaud, and Kali says trust her when she says she knows who Natty is. Natty’s a living legend.

Kali snatches the contract from Stevie and says just give her the pen so she can sign. Stevie says yes, short and sweet from the champion. As Kali signs the contract, Stevie asks if Natty has anything to say. Natty says yes, she has a lot to say. First off, Kali, you are the difference maker, that is true. Nothing but respect. Kali is also the inaugural WWE Evolve Women’s Champion. But at the same time, ever since Natty showed up just to help her, Kali has been nothing but rude to Natty. Yes, very rude. Kali says she doesn’t see it that way. She had to fight through three of the toughest women in Evolve to win the title. Natty says, “Cry me a river!”

Kali says Natty was caught staring at the belt, and that felt disrespectful. Just like how it was disrespectful when Natty stole that pin from her in their tag match. Natty is a legend, a champion, and her name will be in the Hall of Fame. She’s won titles on Raw and SmackDown, but newsflash: this is Evolve! And Evolve is Kali’s show! So you ain’t winning no titles around here! Natty says this is the problem right here: Kali is selfish, only thinking of herself. And Natty is tired of hearing girls around her going, “I worked so hard! I did this, I did that, and I’m just exhausted cuz I’m carrying this division on my shoulders!”

Natty says Kali and the rest have no idea what it is to carry a division for EIGHTEEN YEARS! The fans cheer that! Natty says what Evolve needs is a woman who leads the division into the future, “not a selfish, spoiled brat!” The fans fire up hearing that! Natty would love for Kali to go toe-to-toe with the Boat. Then sign the contract. Natty takes the pen, puts it to the paper, and it is official! Kali says Natty is talking about leading the future, leading the division. Lead the others, she ain’t leading Kali. They get face to face, then Kali takes a swing! But Natty trips Kali up! Natty has the legs, turns Kali over, SHARPSHOOTER!!

Stevie panics but Kali TAPS! Kali tapped out to the living legend’s legendary hold, and now Natty holds up the belt! Will we see this exact scene next week in the first ever Evolve Women’s Championship defense?

Timothy Thatcher finds Sean Legacy in the locker room.

Thatcher tells Sean that he has to tell him the truth because he deserves to hear it: Sean put himself in a no-win situation in that gauntlet. Sean says he knows that, but he wants to be Evolve Champion so bad. He was seconds away from it, and he’d do just about anything to get another shot. Thatcher says okay, do that. Use that passion to lift heavier, run faster, and train harder. Sean can be a champion, but he can’t be putting himself in stupid situations. Sean says he appreciates that. And he also appreciates Thatcher confronting Keanu Carver. That means a lot to the WWE ID talent, whether they wanna admit it or not.

Thatcher says the WWE ID means a lot to him, too. He won’t stand by when it is blatantly insulted. Thatcher plans on dealing with Keanu next week. Sean believes that. But a heads up: Keanu is a dangerous man. Sean knows that firsthand. Thatcher says he fears no man. Keanu disrespected the WWE ID, Thatcher doesn’t care how dangerous he is. Thatcher heads out, will he show everyone that he’s still the more dangerous?

Keanu Carver speaks.

“Hey, Thatch. You wanna act like you hard? Try and get in my business? You better check yourself before you step to me, bruh. Don’t forget you a grappler. You just a player-coach. Bruh, I grew up throwing hands on the concrete! When I get your ass in the ring next week, I’m gon’ drag your face across it. I’m not just gonna beat you, I’m gonna embarrass you, shorty.” Keanu has spoken, will he carve up the Professor of Pain?

Chantel Monroe speaks.

“This woman’s locker room has called me everything under the sun: Cocky, conceited, arrogant. But honestly, they kinda ate, because I don’t call myself the Reflection of Perfection for nothing. And I don’t know what Masyn Holiday’s tripping about, what you see is what you get. And I refuse to lower my standards for the Evolve Women’s Division. I mean, yeah, Kali Armstrong is champion, for now. But it’s only a matter of time before that championship is around the perfect little waist of this Showstopping Diva.” Chantel has staked her claim, but will she be chasing Kali or The BOAT after next week’s title match?

Six Man Tag: Lince Dorado, Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde VS The Vanity Project!

It was the Triple Threat the Golden Lynx lost that got Jackson Drake into the WWE Evolve Championship Fatal 4 Way to even win the title. And it was really only thanks to Swipe Right that it even went down like that. Lince brought in his amigos and now it’s time to get #LuchaLit! But will it be a fiesta for all? Or will the Carolina Reaper & Swipe Right make it all about them?

The big fight introductions are made and the trios sort out. Lince steps up and starts against Smokes. The bell rings, the fans rally, and the two tie up. They go around, Smokes puts Lince in the corner, but the ref counts. Smokes mockingly pats Lince on the head, but Lince shoves him and tells him to get serious. The two tie up, Smokes headlocks, but Lince powers up and out. Smokes RUNS Lince over, and says “Swipe Right!” The fans boo, but Smokes hauls Lince up to back suplex. Lince lands out to KICK, KICK, and snapmare to roll and arm-drag! Lince keeps the arm hooked so he can turn Smokes over and slap him around!

The fans fire up, Lince brings Smokes around to wrench, but Smokes KNEES low! Smokes wrenches, hammerlocks, but Lince elbows him! Lince rolls and reaches up to SPIN RANA! Smokes stumbles up but into a DROPKICK! Smokes goes to a corner, Lince wrenches and tags in Wilde. Wilde CLUBS Smokes’ arm, headlocks, but Smokes powers him back. Brad tags in, but Wilde shoves Smokes away to headlock Brad for a takeover! Brad fights up, fires body shots, and he headlocks in return. Wilde powers up and out, things speed up, but Wilde hurdles and rolls back, MERRY-GO-ROUND RANA! Brad is dizzy, Wilde wrenches him.

Wilde tags Cruz, they double whip and DOUBLE ELBOW! Then they coordinate, HIP TOSS SPLASH COMBO! Cruz runs to LIONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Brad is tougher than that, but here come Smokes and Jackson! Lince and Wilde slide in, the six men stare down, and then the brawl pops off! The fans fire up but the ref reprimands while Evolve goes to break!

Evolve returns as Brad stands Wilde up. Brad fires KNEE after KNEE into the stomach and ribs, then CLUBS him down! The fans boo but Brad stalks Wilde. Brad brings him up again to UPPERCUT! Tag to Smokes and Brad snapmares Wilde. NECK SNAPPER! Basement DROPKICK! Jackson tags in so he can SNAP GERMAN! Wilde flounders but Drake stalks him. Drake stands Wilde up, bumps him off his boot, then stomps away in the corner! Drake rains down fists but the ref backs him off. Drake taunts Lince and Zayda cheers while holding onto the Evolve title for him. Drake goes back to Wilde, but Wilde BOOTS him away!

Wilde runs up, Drake blocks the lariat to ROCK, JAWBREAKER, KNEE and KICK, then he SWEEPS the leg! The fans boo but Drake talks more trash. Drake covers, TWO! The fans rally for Wilde but Drake grabs his hand and bends the fingers! The fans boo, but Drake fireman’s carries for the takeover! Roll and tag to Smokes! They mug Wilde, then Smokes keeps Wilde from his corner. Smokes drags Wilde back by a leg, tags in Brad, and Brad drops an elbow! Brad drags Wilde up to UPPERCUT! Tag to Smokes and he sends Brad in so he can RAM Wilde! Then feed to Smokes’ BOOT! Cover, TWO! Smokes keeps Wilde down with a chinlock!

The fans rally as Wilde fights up, but Smokes facelocks to keep him back. Smokes RAMS Wilde into the Vanity corner, tags Drake, and Drake ENZIGIRIS! Drake wrenches Wilde’s arm, but Wilde reaches out! Wilde ROCKS Drake, Drake holds on, but Wilde reaches out. Wilde ROCKS Drake again, still reaches out, but Drake reels him in! Drake back suplexes, Wilde lands out, but Wilde also staggers back. Wilde DECKS Swipe Right, then dodges Drake, hot tag to Lince! The fans fire up as the Golden Lynx fires off haymakers and CHOPS on Drake! Lince whips, Drake reverses, but Lince CLOBBERS him! And WHEEL KICKS!

Drake blocks the toe kick, FLIPS Lince, but Lince lands out to ENZIGIRI! Lince then GERMAN SUPLEXES! Drake flounders, Brad & Smokes get up, but Lince BLASTS them! Lince CHOPS Drake, CLAWS his back, then whips. Drake reverses but Lince handsprings to STUNNER! Drake staggers and flops right out of the ring! The fans fire up and Lince builds speed to FLY! Down goes Drake! The fans fire up more as Lince puts Drake in the ring. Drake flounders, Lince runs corner to corner, but Drake dodges! Lince flips and bounces off buckles, then SUPERKICKS Drake down! Lince tags Cruz before going up top, MOONSAULT but into boots!

Drake storms up on Lince, wrenches and wrangles him to a cover, but the ref explains about Cruz making the tag. Drake is furious, but Cruz springboards to CROSSBODY! The fans fire up and Cruz whips Drake to an open corner. Cruz runs up to GAMANGIRI! Then he suplexes for some ANARCHY! The fans fire up more and Cruz steps over, LA MAGISTROL with some extra rolling! They go around and around and around, the fans fir eup, and Cruz finally has the cover, TWO! Both men are dizzy, but Drake manages to FLAPJACK Cruz! Tag to Brad, tag to Smokes! Swipe Right gets Cruz up, for the DROPKICK SPINEBUSTER!

Tag back to Drake, and Smokes BLASTS Wilde off the corner! SWANTON BOMB from Drake! Cover, WILDE BREAKS IT! The fans fire up but Smokes is after Wilde again! Wilde fires a KNEE, fast hands, but Smokes BACKHANDS! Smoke runs, but into a SUPERKICK! Wilde runs, into a JUMP KNEE! Smokes winds up, but Wilde ducks and backslides, roll through, SATELLITE DDT! Smokes is down, Brad is in, but Wilde waistlocks! Brad elbows free, reels Wilde in, suplex and GHOSTBUSTER! But Cruz runs up on Brad to CHOP! Cruz whips, Brad reverses, but Cruz goes outside, around and springboard, MISSILE DROPKICK

Drake is back, he dodges to wrench and fireman’s carry! GUT BUSTER DROP! Drake snarls, aims from the corner, and he runs in, only to be put outside! Cruz swings on Drake, but into a HOTSHOT! Drake goes up, but Cruz handsprings to PELE! Hot tag to Lince! The fans fire up as Lince somersaults to SHORYUKEN! Lince goes up after Drake now, the fans chant for “L W O!” for the SUPER STEINER and Drake lands on Swipe Right!! Lince then goes back up, Wilde y Cruz shout it out! “L! W! O!” They DOUBLE TOPE onto Swipe Right! And Lince tops it off with a SHOOTING STAR onto Drake! Cover, LWO WINS!

Winners: Lince Dorado, Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde, by pinfall

Zayda and Bryce cannot believe it, and they do not like it! Lince not only won it for the team, but he pinned THE Evolve Champion to do it! Will that mean The Golden Lynx will be golden with this Evolve title? Or will the Carolina Reaper burn Lince for this?

My Thoughts:

A great episode for Evolve, with good set-up for next week. Good promo from Thatcher and Legacy for the gritty veteran to help the hungry young guy understand his limits, but also to set up Thatcher VS Keanu. Keanu had a very good response promo, that match is going to be really good, but I would think Keanu wins. This feels like it’ll culminate in Keanu VS Legacy, winner goes after the Evolve Championship. Very good contract signing segment from Kali and Natty, but I figured Natty would get the better of Kali here. Go-home math now goes along with how I felt: Kali is going to retain the title in a solid first defense.

Very good match from Edris VS Jamar, but a great win for Edris to make good on his new Heel attitude. I was sure Dante was going to show up after for payback, but maybe that’s next week. Layla VS Jin was also a very good match, and between Jin’s aggression and that post-match promo, I’m thinking Jin is the backstage attacker. She has benefitted from those attacks twice, with Carlee Bright being less than 100% in their match, and now Jin getting this match at all with Aria Bennett out. Being such a menacing top Heel would be a great first step for Jin, and she could have a string of great of matches for it.

Very good promo from Chantel Monroe, and I’m sure we’ll see Chantel VS Masyn at some point soon to also help determine a challenger. Good promo from Cappuccino & Cartwheel to give us their team name’s origin story behind. And I appreciate they have the forethought to say they’ll be Evolve Tag Team Champions because yeah, those belts are surely on the way. Adrenaline Drip and Swipe Right are automatically the frontrunners for those belts, and might as well already be the finals of a tournament soon to come.

Great Six Man Tag main event with Vanity Project VS LWO, and I was a bit surprised the Faces won that. Lince pinning Drake, they’re clearly setting up Drake’s first title defense. I’m pretty sure Drake wins that to parallel Kali beating Natty, and then it’ll be Legacy, Keanu or any number of other Evolve talent challenging Drake next. Not sure how long these inaugural reigns are going to go, but I’m sure we’ll get some fighting champions out of them.

My Score: 8.7/10

You ready to go night-night? You ready to go night-night?!

In order to settle their grudge, Kylie Rae and Wendy Choo make history by having WWE Evolve’s first-ever Last Woman Standing match!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Keanu Carver VS Ice Williams; Keanu wins.
• Zara Zakher VS Kendal Grey; Kendal wins.
• Last Woman Standing: Kylie Rae VS Wendy Choo; Kylie wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Keanu Carver VS Ice Williams!

The Alpha Male of Evolve blames the WWE ID talents for why he isn’t WWE Evolve Champion, and he vows to destroy every single one of them until the program is dead! But will Ice Williams help Keanu cool off? Or is Williams about to be iced?

The moment Ice is on the apron, Keanu BLASTS him down! Keanu then goes out after Ice, puts him in the ring, and the ref has Keanu hold on. The ref checks with Ice, Ice says let’s go, and the bell rings! Keanu rushes in but Ice dodges! Ice fires off haymakers, but Keanu shoves him. Ice comes back to fire more forearms! Keanu grabs Ice by the neck, pops him up, but Ice sunset flips! High stack, TWO! Basement DROPKICK! Keanu stumbles to the ropes, Ice runs and he DROPKICKS Keanu outta the ring! The fans fire up for Ice as he runs, slides, but Keanu blocks the dropkick! Keanu drags Ice out, takes a swing, but Ice dodges!

Ice comes back but Keanu SAMOAN DROPS him on the floor! The fans are torn but Keanu drags Ice up and into the ring. Keanu storms in and stalks Ice to the ropes. Keanu stomps Ice, puts him in the corner and fires big haymakers! Keanu then TOSSES Ice across the way! Ice writhes, Keanu runs, and Keanu SLIDING SHOULDER TACKLES! Cover, TWO! Ice survives and the fans cheer! Keanu stalks Ice to a corner, talks trash, then whips corner to corner. Ice hits buckles hard and he falls to the mat! Keanu fires up and talks more trash. Keanu storms up, but Ice CHOPS! And CHOPS! And BOOTS!

Keanu wobbles, Ice runs, but Keanu CLOBBERS Ice! The fans are torn as Keanu rains down forearms! Keanu drags Ice up, torture racks, and BURNING HAMMER! Cover, TWO!?! Ice survives and the fans cheer! Keanu just gets angrier, and he clamps on with shoulder claws! Ice endures and the fans rally up. Ice fights up, fires body shots, but Keanu scoops and SLAMS! Keanu runs but Ice dodges the elbow drop! Ice goes to a corner, Keanu runs in, and Keanu blocks a boot. Ice ENZIGIRIS, then he runs to fire forearm after forearm! Ice ducks ‘n’ dodges to LEAPING LARIAT! Down goes Keanu and the fans fire up!

Ice goes to another corner, as does Keanu. Ice runs corner to corner for a- NO, Keanu catches him, puts him up top, but Ice BOOTS him! And FLYING LARIATS from behind! The fans fire up, Ice aims, ICEBREAKER SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO!! Keanu survives and Ice can’t believe it! The fans rally behind Ice and he goes to the corner. Ice climbs, Keanu stands, and Ice FLYING- NO, Keanu dodges the lariat this time, and he POUNCES! Keanu then scoops Ice for the RUNNING POWERSLAM!

Winner: Keanu Carver, by pinfall

Keanu carved it up, but he isn’t done! He stomps away on Ice at the ropes! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but here comes Timothy Thatcher! Thatcher gets Ice out of the ring and he tells Keanu to back off, he got his win. Thatcher doesn’t care how mad Keanu is, this isn’t how things are done! Will the equally dangerous Professor of Pain have to teach Keanu a lesson?

Backstage interview with Cappuccino Jones & Jack Cartwheel.

The Evolve reporter asks them how they got their WWE ID contracts. Cappuccino says WWE was always the goal, but he wasn’t sure how he’d get here. He started in a little Oklahoma indie, wrestling in a church gymnasium, maybe 30 people. But one of those people was a WWE scout. All Cappuccino was an opportunity, to have the right people see him. As for Cartwheel, he was told, “The time to get ready is over, it’s time to be ready.” At that point, Cartwheel felt very confident. He debuted in GCW, he did shows with AAA, did shows in Japan, trying to bring it to life where he cartwheels all over the world.

The WWE ID program has clearly done so much for a lot of wrestlers already, and Cappuccino feels he was the most unknown. He has greatly improved thanks to quality matches and training. He has financial stability which brings better gear. He wouldn’t be here without WWE ID. Cappuccino & Cartwheel are ready, but is Evolve ready for the #AdrenalineDrip?

Evolve follows The Vanity Project.

Courtesy of IWTV Live, it was this past Sunday that Zayda Steel, Jackson Drake, Bryce Donovan & Swipe Right were at a Beyond Wrestling show. And Zayda says she can’t believe they even made it here! This is everyone’s greatest night in their lives, because they get to be in the same room with The Vanity Project! Brad Baylor says hundos, but the fans boo. Ricky Smokes says this feels like the kind of town Lince Dorada & The LWO would go, just to feel important for five minutes! Brad again says hundos, but they shouldn’t get sidetracked. History is being made right before them, because they have the inaugural WWE Evolve Champion, Jackson Drake, live and in person!

The fans boo but Smokes says the world is buzzing over #HeartbreakDrake, the Wild Card, and THE WWE Evolve Champion. Jackson says that is right, and not to harsh the vibes, but… Jackson’s been thinking. He has been thinking about Lince Dorada, the LWO, and how they had the fortitude to put hands on The Vanity Project! The fans cheer that! Jackson promises that on Evolve, Jackson Drake & Swipe Right VS Lince & LWO is going down! “And when the dust settles, the ones who are standing tall, center stage, running the whole damn show, will be The Vanity Project.”

The fans boo, but the match is official! Stevie Turner has scheduled it for next Wednesday, will the Golden Lynx & LWO be able to humble the most narcissistic group in WWE today?

Zara Zakher VS Kendal Grey!

The backstage attacks have everyone on edge, but it also has everyone pointing fingers. And sadly, with the Pint-Sized Powerhouse only now returning, those fingers all point at her. Can Zara prove she’s not the one? Or will Grappler Grey grind a confession out of her?

The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, go around, and Kendal puts Zara on the ropes. Zara turns things around, they end up in a corner, and Zara lets off saying she didn’t do any of that. Kendal won’t believe her, and she runs up, into an arm-drag! Zara tells Kendal that she isn’t some attacker! Kendal runs up, but she blocks the arm-drag this time. Kendal brings Zara up but Zara slips around to roll Kendal up! TWO, and Zara RUNS Kendal over. Things keep moving, Kendal drops down then runs past, and she blocks a hip toss to wrench and fireman’s carry takeover! And another fireman’s carry takeover!

Kendal has the arm, shifts to a cover, TWO! Kendal keeps on the arm with the cording hold, but Zara fights up. Kendal wrenches, Zara rolls and kips up, but Kendal throws her down! The fans cheer as Kendal keeps the arm. Zara endures, fights up, but Kendal wrangles her down again. The fans rally, Zara fights, and she kicks from below! Kendal grabs that leg to hook for a cover, TWO! Zara endures the armlock, gives more kicks, and the fans rally up. Kendal lets Zara go, and Zara goes to a corner. Kendal runs up, Zara dodges to roll her, but not to cover. Zara runs to CLOBBER Kendal again and again!

Kendal swings, Zara bobs ‘n’ weaves to wrench, ROCK, and DISCUS LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Zara is annoyed but she stays focused on Kendal. Zara waistlocks, Kendal fights and switches, but Zara switches back. Kendal pries free to switch again, but Zara ELBOWS Kendal! Zara runs, but Kendal wrenches and wrangles Zara for an ARMBAR! Zara clasps hands and she high stacks! TWO, and Kendal still has the arm! Zara scrambles to the ROPEBREAK! Kendal lets go and dares Zara to get up. Zara stands, but into a wrench! ANGLE- NO, Zara fights free and ENZIGIRIS! Zara fireman’s carries, but Kendal sunset flips through, TWO!

Both women stand, and Zara handsprings to dodge! But then Kendal blocks the stunner into a SAIDO! Cover, Kendal wins!

Winner: Kendal Grey, by pinfall

Kendal turns things around in the blink of an eye, but we’re no closer to solving the mystery than we were before. What will it take to find out whodunnit?

Edris Enofe finds Stevie Turner.

The Epitome of Excellence walks ‘n’ talks with the Evolve “Prime Minister” as he asks if she has a minute to talk. She says unfortunately no, she doesn’t. She is on the way to the ring to announce the newest signee. Okay, but it’s really quick. Stevie says sorry, perhaps after. But wait! Now there’s been another attack!? Aria Bennett is down and clutching her shoulder! Stevie tells refs to get medical, and now Zara and Kendal walk in from the stage. There were no witnesses, but Zara’s match is now her alibi. Kendal realizes it wasn’t Zara, but that only makes the mystery a bit scarier. Who is out here attacking the women of Evolve?

Stevie Turner is in the ring.

Evolve returns and the Prime Minister says she is here to introduce Evolve’s newest signing. So please welcome… DANTE CHEN! The fans fire up as the Singaporean Warrior is here! Chen goes to the ring and shakes hands with Stevie. Chen then has the mic, and fans join in on the wind up. “RA~!” The fans cheer Chen on and he thanks Stevie, and tells the WWE Evolve fans, “I’m here!” Chen is ready to join a talented and unique roster, both up-and-coming superstars and WWE ID talent.

And he is sure some remember Ethan Page attacking Chen on NXT. The fans boo Ethan, and Chen brings up how those steel steps were smashed into his ankle and tore many ligaments. It was a grueling rehabilitation process. There were times when Chen wondered if his career was over. But all he could think about was getting back in this ring and doing what he loves! He was grinding tirelessly, and here he is! He always found purpose in being a WWE superstar of the next generation. But being in Evolve is for him! “The measuring stick of Evolve has arrived!” But then wait, here comes Edris!

Edris says y’all know what time it is, the EOE is here. Edris welcomes Chen to Evolve and Chen thanks him. Good to see him! It has been awhile. Indeed it has. But Edris wants Chen to understand… All of this “ain’t special.” Oh, does he not believe Edris? He was literally doing this weeks ago! He was welcomed as the new signee, was given his flowers by the people and coworkers, and he competed in the inaugural Evolve Championship match. A hero’s welcome! But now… Edris feels like everyone else. He can’t get even ten seconds of Stevie’s time, and for who? For CHEN!? What’s so special about him?!

Oh, Chen’s the only one who overcame an injury? He’s the only one who wants to be the Face of Evolve? Well, he’s not. And he won’t be. So enjoy your time being this week’s shiny new toy. But be prepared to step aside as the EOE ascends and makes Evolve his domain! Chen shakes his head and says this isn’t Edris, and Edris knows it. Don’t become someone you’re not. Edris says no, no, no, this IS him. Edris is not the same man Chen remembers. Edris is tired of being tired, sick of playing the right way just to get ignored and walked on. Chen says Edris can believe that all he wants, and maybe it works out for him, but Chen will not step aside-

EDRIS DECKS CHEN! The fans boo as Edris stands over Chen! The Epitome of Excellence is more like the picture of bitterness! But will these two just have to fight it out to prove who’s right?

Backstage interview with Layla Diggs.

Chuey Martinez sits with the fresh face from Fresno, and he asks how she goes from being in Fresno, California to here in Orlando, Florida. Layla says she filled out an application. There was a docuseries coming up, she was given a tryout, and she always dealt with stage fright, fear of public speaking, and just being in front of an audience. Chuey says he doesn’t see that in her, but she says that’s because she’s evolved. The tryout was the toughest thing she’s ever done, but showed she has something more inside. She dug deep, and she has found her confidence and ferociousness and self-belief.

Talk about that experience. It seems like she’s having a great time. Layla says she loves it here, she loves to compete. She feels herself getting better, learning her strengths and weaknesses, and learning how to turn weaknesses into strengths. Chuey says she is indeed a fierce competitor. But unfortunately, Layla’s opponent for next week, Aria Bennett, is the newest victim in these backstage attacks. Layla cannot believe this keeps happening, and then Jin Tala steps in. Jin says she has some good news! She talked with Stevie, and Stevie agreed to having Jin substitute for Aria next week.

Jin knows she’s new here but she wants to compete, and she’s heard how fierce Layla is as a competitor. They shake hands on it and Layla says Jin better bring her A Game. Jin says Layla better not hold back. Chuey likes this match-up already, don’t miss it!

Tate Wilder speaks.

“I’ve been asked what I wanna accomplish on Evolve, and what I truly wanna do is live up to my family’s legacy. To keep fighting, even when I get knocked down. Cowboys don’t stay down. This is an opportunity for me to work my way up, to earn my spot on NXT, and to one day, WrestleMania. These goals are not possible unless I become successful on Evolve. My name’s Tate Wilder. Hop onboard and buckle up, because it’s about to be a wild ride.”

Lince Dorado talks with the LWO.

The Golden Lynx thanks Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde for having his back. He has business with the Vanity Project. Next week, things are about to get Lucha Lit! Wilde doesn’t get how anyone deals with The Vanity Project, they are so annoying. Too cocky, too comfortable, and they have stupid faces that you just wanna punch over and over! Cruz says they can do all of that and more, carnals. Vanity Project claims they run Evolve, but LWO will change that. Wilde says it will be non-stop high-flying action. It’ll be Vanity VS Insanity! Lince says that is purrfect! And Cruz says it is all about the LWO!

Wait, something else is going on backstage now. Jamar Hampton is arguing with Edris Enofe over what he did to Dante Chen! Edris says who is this “rookie” to come at him about something! Jamar admits, he has a lot to learn, but Edris stops him there. Jamar’s biggest lesson to learn is NOT to get in Edris’ face. Then teach him something then. Edris says nah, he ain’t doing nothing for anyone else no more. Edris leaves, his bitterness only puffing up his ego. Will Jamar just have to deflate Edris before his head gets too big?

Last Woman Standing: Kylie Rae VS Wendy Choo!

After months of being haunted and hurt, both physically and emotionally, Smiley Kylie has had enough of the Sleepy Psycho and it’s time to fight back! Who stands tall as this grudge is finally put to bed?

The moment Kylie slides in, she and Wendy throw hands! The fans fire up and the bell rings as it is fast and furious! Wendy ROCKS Kylie, CLUBS her, and has her on the ropes! Wendy whips, Kylie reverses, and Kylie short arm LARIATS! The fans fire up as Kylie rains down shots, but Wendy shoves her away. Wendy throat chops Kylie, then hammerlocks and- NO, Kylie dodges the Pepsi Twist to run and arm-drag into a handspring and SKY DAY SPECIAL SUPERKICK! Wendy bails out and the fans rally up. Kylie builds speed to DIVE! Down goes Wendy at the ramp! The fans fire up with Kylie, and she goes looking under the ring!

Kylie brings out a TABLE! The fans cheer that, but Wendy CLOBBERS her! Wendy CLUBS Kylie, CLUBS her again, then brings her up to BOOT! Kylie staggers away to the stage and Wendy pursues. But Kylie SMACKS her with a trash can! The fans cheer and Kylie brings the can to ringside. Kylie puts the can around Wendy, then grabs a broom! Time to take out the trash! SMACK with the broomstick! And SMACK again! Wendy wobbles but Kylie SMACKS her again! Then SUPERKICKS her down! The ref starts a count on Wendy, and Kylie hopes this goes fast. Wendy stands at 6, so Kylie pushes her into the ring.

Kylie hurries to grab that trash can and she chucks it into the ring. Kylie wedges the trash can into the corner, kicks Wendy low, then reels her in. Kylie suplexes and Wendy tumbles to the corner. Kylie runs corner to corner, but Wendy dodges! Cannonball hits trash can! Kylie clutches a leg, but Wendy GERMAN SUPLEXES her! Kylie is down so the count begins. Wendy watches as Kylie slowly rises, but stands at 7. Wendy fires forearms, whips Kylie to the corner, then handsprings to forearm SMASH! Wendy goes side to side for a BOOT! Kylie dangles out of the ring and Wendy hurries to look under the ring. She brings a toolbox out?!

Wendy looks in the box, and she has tape! Wendy kicks Kylie and wraps tape around her feet, trapping her on the ropes! Kylie is stuck in a Tree of Woe, but Wendy uses the trash can to SMACK her! Wendy laughs as she makes Kylie into a human pinata! Wendy then goes back to the box, and she brings out a spare turnbuckle bar! Wendy JAMS and CLUBS Kylie with the bar, the ref reprimands but that’s all he can do, and Evolve goes to break.

Evolve returns and while Kylie is free of the corner, she and Wendy are brawling on the apron! The fans rally as Kylie ROCKS Wendy, but then Wendy kicks low! Wendy reels Kylie in, but Kylie fights the suplex! Kylie RAMS Wendy into the trashcan in the corner! The fans fire up as Kylie aims from the apron, but Wendy blocks the kick! Wendy YANKS Kylie down, and has her in the apron skirt! Wendy throws hands and a HEADBUTT! Kylie slumps down so Wendy grabs the trashcan lid. Wendy lifts the apron skirt, but Kylie blasts her with the fire extinguisher! Wendy is reeling and the fans fire up! Kylie hurries after Wendy and SMACKS her off steel steps!

The fans cheer Kylie on as she dribbles Wendy off the steel! Kylie sits Wendy up against the steps, then runs to CANNONBALL! Direct hit and the fans fire up again! The standing count begins as Wendy writhes. Kylie watches Wendy closely, and Wendy rises at 8! Kylie is right on Wendy with furious fists! Kylie puts Wendy in the ring, storms up, and Kylie ROCKS Wendy! Wendy CHOPS Kylie! Kylie ROCKS Wendy! Wendy UPPERCUTS! Kylie fires a flurry of fists, then she whips, only for Wendy to reverse. But Kylie tilt-o-whirls for LA MYSTICA! CROSSFACE!! Wendy endures, reaches out, and she spots the crossbar! Wendy reaches for it, but Kylie stomps on her!

Kylie grabs the crossbar, and this is now a FULL METAL CROSSFACE!! Wendy can only suffer, but she rolls to slip free! Kylie aims but Wendy kicks low! Wendy grabs the bar to JAM Kylie up! And now, FULL METAL PEPSI TWIST!! Both women are down and the fans are going nuts! A standing count begins, the fans count along, and both women are down at 5 of 10. Wendy rises at 7! Kylie follows at 8, but Wendy CLUBS her back down! Wendy stomps away, then she grabs her pillow! Wendy opens the pillow up to pour out LEGOS! As if stepping on one isn’t bad…! Wendy drags Kylie up, but Kylie breaks free of the nelson!

Kylie scoops, Wendy slips free, and Wendy waistlocks, only for Kylie to grab ropes! Kylie elbows free and Wendy staggers far away. But Wendy has the teddy bear! Kylie BOOTS Wendy first! Kylie takes teddy back, and SMACKS Wendy with it! Wait, Wendy goes down in a heap, but why? Kylie can feel what’s inside, and she pulls it out. It’s a BRICK!! A solid red brick! Kylie is rather stunned what she just did, but Wendy is still down at 7! And 8! Wendy staggers up at 9, but Kylie is on her! Fireman’s carry, but Wendy slips free! Wendy clinches, and FULL NELSON SLAMS Kylie on the Legos!! Kylie writhes while even the fans cringe from the pain.

The standing count starts, both women are down, and the fans rally up again. Both women use the ropes and they stand at 9! But Wendy grins as she is on Kylie! Kylie fights the Dirt Nap Clutch, but Wendy throws her into the corner! Wendy runs up, but Kylie dodges! Wendy POSTS herself, and we’re back on the apron! Kylie fireman’s carries Wendy, but Wendy slips free! DIRTNAP! Kylie holds onto the ropes! Wendy climbs up onto Kylie, Kylie lets go, and they both fall through the table!! The fans fire up and the standing count begins! It passes 5 before either woman stirs. They’re both down at 7! At 8! KYLIE is up, Wendy is not! KYLIE WINS!

Winner: Kylie Rae

Kylie smiles as she realizes she came out on top! She survived the #DreamKiller, but does that mean the nightmare is over? Can Kylie go on and make her dreams come true here in Evolve?

Stevie Turner & Natalya watch this backstage.

Stevie asks The BOAT if she’s ever seen a Women’s Division ever grow this great this quickly. Natty says Kylie and Wendy put on one hell of a match, that was incredible. And Stevie has done such a great job running Evolve, and this division is so deep, these girls are so good. Stevie says that is a huge compliment coming from Natty. Natty says you’re welcome. Natty wants to be part of Evolve and bring her decades of experience to help build this place. Stevie says yes, Natty is a future WWE Hall of Famer, so who better than to help Evolve than her? Stevie thanks Natty for being here. Natty says she can also help guide this division by being it’s champion.

Natty wants a title match against Kali Armstrong. Selfie! Cheese! Natty takes the pic and heads out. Stevie is a bit surprised by that request, but it doesn’t seem like she’s against it. Will the Prime Minister give the Queen of Harts a shortcut right to the top? Will the Pride of Inglewood have to sink The BOAT for overstepping?

My Thoughts:

A very good Evolve here, keeping to three matches like before, which feels like a good format for a show that is meant to be under an hour. Very good start on Keanu’s WWE ID hunt, with Ice Williams making a return but Keanu of course winning. Thatcher stepping up is a little surprising when it could’ve been another WWE ID talent first. But as an OG Evolve wrestler, Thatcher also works because he represents the history of this brand. Very good stuff with this ongoing whodunnit. Zara loses her match but Aria is attacked while she is in the ring, so that proves Zara’s innocence. And Jin benefits again from this, because now she’s facing Layla instead of Aria. Could it be Jin whodunnit?

Good promo from Vanity Project while they were at the Beyond Wrestling event, which could be a tease of Beyond joining the WWE’s conglomeration. And good promo from Lince & LWO to add to the Six Man Tag hype. That’ll be a great match but I feel like Vanity Project cheats to win. Good stuff with Dante Chen and Edris Enofe, as well as Jamar Hampton. Edris probably gets a win off Jamar, maybe with some cheating of his own, and then we get Edris VS Chen after. Good promo from Tate Wilder, but kinda wondering when he’ll get in the ring.

And great stuff with Kylie VS Wendy in the main event. Great creativity but obviously not quite as extreme as you could imagine. This is Evolve, they need to keep a cap on how wild things get or else it outshines NXT or even main roster. After all, SmackDown has a Last Woman Standing planned, too, so Tiff & Nia can’t be upstaged by Kylie & Wendy. Great win for Kylie, I’m sure she’ll get a title match at some point. But I figured when we saw Natty talking with Stevie that Natty would make her move on the Evolve Women’s Championship. As I said last time, Natty will make a great first defense and first win for Kali Armstrong to build her own legacy on.

My Score: 8.6/10