Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE NXT Results & Report! (1/1/2020)
The 2019 Year End Awards are revealed!
Who are deemed the Best of the Best in NXT 2019?
The New Year has begun, but NXT looks back fondly on 2019. Who will win the coveted Year End Awards to start 2020 off strong?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- N/A
PLAY BY PLAY
“2019 was a beautiful year.”
But Pat McAfee says, “The only thing we’ll remember 10 years from now, 20 years from now, 30 years from now, is 2019 was the year that the NXT brand got propelled into the spotlight and showed up, and showed out.” The 25th TakeOver event and blew the roof off in Hartford. NXT went to live national television with the USA Network, truly making Wednesday nights must-see “each and every single week.” The women made history with WarGames, and not just as Match of the Year nominee, but as Greatest Match with Two Rings and Two Cages EVER! 2020 will only be bigger as the black ‘n’ gold takes over, over and over again. NXT WON Survivor Series, so everyone in the WWE Universe can’t help but shout at the top of their lungs, “WE! ARE! N! X! T!” If 2019 was unbelievable, will 2020 be unstoppable?
It’s the Year End Awards 2019!
Speaking of Pat McAfee, he and Sam Roberts once again join Cathy Kelly in the NXT Commander Center to kick off the New Year by doling out the accolades for the best moments of last year! Cathy does commend Pat on that great opening video narration. Sam says 2019 was perhaps NXT’s best year ever. Tonight, we celebrate the best by counting down to NXT’s NUMBER ONE Match of the Year in 2019! First up is Number 3, from TakeOver: XXV!
Third Best Match of the Year – TakeOver: XXV, 6/1/19
NXT Tag Team Championships Fatal 4 Way Ladder Match: The Street Profits VS The Forgotten Sons VS Oney Lorcan & Danny Burch VS The Undisputed Era!
The titles are vacant and literally hang in the balance! The Raid has moved on, but now it’s time for someone to step up. Angelo Dawkins & Montez Ford want to finally cash-in. Wesley Blake & Steve Cutler want to be remembered. The Brit-Am Brawlers want to finally hold some gold. And Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly want to again be undisputed tag team champions! Who reaches new heights to be on top of the entire NXT Tag Team Division?
The introductions are made, with the Profits in new blue and gold ring gear and with the Forgotten Sons tempting luck by going under a ladder. Lorcan & Burch keep it simple while the Undisputed Era’s reDRagon look to be the first-ever three-time NXT Tag Team Champions. The bell rings, and we begin this massive match!
All eight men look up at the belt, and then it sparks into a fight! Four different brawls go all over the ring. Cutler & Blake drag Lorcan & Burch out while reDRagon throws Dawkins out. Fish & O’Reilly focus on Ford with double whips and kicks! Cutler returns but he gets kicks and palm strikes and knees from O’Reilly! O’Reilly sweeps and Fish fights with Blake. Fish dragon screws Blake out, then reDRagon mugs Cutler. They double whip but Lorcan dumps Cutler out. Lorcan and Burch throw hands with reDRagon! They go back and forth, then criss-cross. Lorcan CHOPS Fish, but O’Reilly catches Lorcan’s kick for Fish to kick the leg. Burch headbutts O’Reilly but O’Reilly kicks back. Fish forearms Burch but Lorcan CHOPS Fish and O’Reilly!
O’Reilly grabs the arm, Fish knees and O’Reilly sweeps. O’Reilly throws Burch out, and then boots Dawkins down. Fans cheer as reDRagon hurries for ladders. They get a couple ladders over to ringside, but settle on one. Only for Blake to DIVE the ladder into them!! Fans lose their minds over the double-edge risk Blake just took! Cutler drags two ladders over but gets blaseted by Lorcan’s uppercut! Burch and Lorcan drag Cutler up for more uppercuts, but Blake fights back. The teams brawl, but Dawkins runs and LEAPS onto them all! The Curse of Greatness wipes them all out! Fans fire up with Dawkins, and he and Ford regroup. The Profits get a ladder up and in and are all alone as they set it up! Both climb but reDRagon stops them both.
O’Reilly and Fish climb but Blake shoves the ladder over! O’Reilly lands ON the ladder! The Forgotten Sons get in and get the ladder back up, and ram Lorcan with it! And Burch! But the Profits return, to get bulldozed! And so does reDRagon! Lorcan & Burch return, but they edge dodge the Forgotten Sons, to double German Suplex them! The ladder goes flying at ropes! Everyone is down but the fans are losing their minds all over again! O’Reilly drags himself out while Lorcan & Burch flounder to their feet. But the Profits take them out with an exploder suplex, and a whip to a SPINEBUSTER! Ford climbs up and gives Burch a FROG SPLASH! The fans are thunderous as the Profits grab a ladder. They ram Blake with it, then set him on it. Dawkins makes it a bridge, for Ford’s Leap Frog!
Blake tumbles out and Cutler runs in, for a double flapjack on the ladder! But Dawkins builds another bridge! Fish intercepts Ford, O’Reilly missile dropkicks Dawkins! But O’Reilly still hits ladder! Even so, reDRagon powers through to give Ford the butterfly wheelbarrow DDT! And suplex to the ladder! Fans know “This is Awesome!” while also losing their minds. O’Reilly and Fish drag the ladder up and ram Dawkins with it. They set the ladder up but Lorcan returns. Fish hits Lorcan, then kicks Burch. But Cutler comes around back, only for Fish to body check! O’Reilly falls and hits his jaw! O’Reilly tells Fish to go up instead, and then tackles Blake! Fish reaches, but Blake powerbombs O’Reilly into the ladder!! “They killed Kyle!”
Everyone is down again as fans chant “Mamma Mia!” Cutler puts the ladder in a corner and regroups with Blake. They grab a second ladder as well as Fish. Blake bumps Fish on buckles while Cutler sets the other ladder over O’Reilly. Cutler climbs and Blake keeps guard. But O’Reilly trips Cutler up! It’s a kneebar through the rungs! Cutler taps but that doesn’t matter! Blake stomps O’Reilly out and drags him away to throw him out. Cutler climbs again but Fish kicks him! Blake goes after Fish, and the Sons give Fish Memories Remain! Blake and Cutler climb up together, but Burch and Dawkins stop them with double electric chairs! Lorcan returns, and they give Cutler a EuroUpper Doomsday! Ford returns to give Blake the Blockbuster Doomsday! The fans are at a fever pitch over this newest tag team classic!
O’Reilly crawls to the ladder, bad back and all! Fans cheer for O’Reilly, but is that… That’s Jaxson Ryker! The Gunner is not dead, even after what happened on last Wednesday! Ryker grabs O’Reilly and drags him off, to powerbomb him on the other ladder! Ryker choke slams Burch! And tosses Ford way out! Fish runs into an urenage! Dawkins climbs but Ryker spots him. Ryker tips the ladder and dumps Dawins down! Fans boo as Ryker resets the ladder, to then ram it into Dawkins! And again, and again, and again! But Ryker turns around to see Lorcan, and back drop him on the ladder!! Ryker stands alone amidst the carnage. Fans say “We Forgot You!” but he doesn’t care. Ryker stands the ladder back up, but Ford attacks! Only to get clobbered.
O’Reilly returns to throw hands! As does Fish! Fans fire up for reDRagon as they go after Ryker! Burch and the Profits do, too! Lorcan brings in yet another ladder, and oddly enough, the other three teams work together to SLAM Ryker with it over and over and over! But then it’s right back to their own fight! Fish and O’Reilly clear the ring of the other teams, but Ryker is still stirring. O’Reilly says they need to end him, so he and Fish ram Ryker right off the apron! But Ryker still stands?! Ford FLIES over reDRagon to wipe him out!! But Ryker sits up again! Lorcan dodges the ladder to DIVE onto Ryker! Dawkins gets rammed by reDRagon! Burch climbs and dropkicks the ladder into reDRagon! Lorcan regroups with Burch to keep on Fish, arm wrench to running uppercut! Then they throw Fish into the post!
Burch clotheslines and kicks O’Reilly, then feeds him to Lorcan for the Half ‘n’ Half! Blake returns but he gets haymakers. Dawkins and Cutler get the ladder, as does Ford. Burch and Lorcan have a ladder each, and they sandwich the Profits! Then Lorcan and Burch TOSS a ladder at the Forgotten Sons in full! Burch and Lorcan are alone, and they stand a ladder up! They both climb, but Fish and O’Reilly return. Fish and O’Reilly kick them off the ladder, then get a ladder of their own. Fish and O’Reilly climb but Lorcan and Burch follow. The two teams brawl side-by-side on the pair of ladders. Lorcan falls, leaving Burch alone with reDRagon. But Lorcan returns from the other side and stops O’Reilly from reaching. Lorcan grabs but Fish stops him.
The four men brawl fast and furious way up high! But the Sons return to tip them all!! They shove one ladder out hard, then climb the other! But Dawkins SPEARS Cutler! Ford springboards to join Blake and punch him down!! The Profits climb and WIN!!
Winners: The Street Profits; NEW NXT Tag Team Champions
They did it! They finally have the gold! Ford and Dawkins win big in their TakeOver debut! And now they celebrate with the fans! Will the Profits only rise higher now that they’re golden?
The panel discusses this match.
Sam remembers being there to see this match himself, and you know it was an amazing moment. As ridiculous as they get on Raw, this ladder match made the Profits. Pat loved how Ford got up and got to the top of that ladder. Pat loves this team and would love to have a drink with them. But with this, we look at our first Year End Award!
NXT Tag Team of the Year!
The nominees are:
- The Street Profits, who of course won the NXT Tag Team Championships at TakeOver: XXV.
- The Grizzled Young Veterans, who were the inaugural NXT UK Tag Team Champions after TakeOver: Blackpool.
- The Viking Raiders, who have been both NXT Tag Team Champions and Raw Tag Team Champions already.
- South Wales Subculture, who were the historic first-ever Welshmen champions in WWE history when they won the NXT UK Tag Team Championships at TakeOver: Cardiff.
- The Undisputed Era, specifically reDRagon, who are still #DrapedInGold with Kyle O’Reilly as a three-time tag team champion by himself.
All these teams are great choices, but the winner of the Golden Bells are… Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly! The Undisputed Era walks out together, showing off their belts and their nice suits. They go to the ring and NXT General Manager, William Regal, is there to present the awards personally. Strong and Cole applaud their friends, but Fish never had any doubts. The bells say Tag Team of the Year but really, it should be “Collective Brotherhood of the Year,” because as Kyle has proven, any combination of the four of them makes for a world-class tag team. O’Reilly & Fish, O’Reilly & Strong, O’Reilly & Cole, it’s championship material. The Era is up, and they kindly take the bells off Regal’s hands. Another round of applause and the Era has their hands full. Undisputed group hug!
NXT returns with more awards!
Next up, Male Competitor of 2019! The men’s roster this year is perhaps “the most talented roster in the history of sports entertainment.” NXT and NXT UK makes for a global force so strong, not only were fans polled, but so were icons and legends of pro-wrestling, as well as the coaches at the performance centers, and even USA Network executives! Who did this huge conglomerate of fans choose? First, the nominees for Best Male Competitor of the Year:
- Adam Cole, BAYBAY, the current NXT Champion and charismatic leader of the Undisputed Era.
- WALTER, the Ring General, current WWE United Kingdom Champion, and commander of Imperium.
- Johnny Gargano, the first-ever NXT Triple Crown winner and a staple of NXT as a brand.
- The Velveteen Dream, a former NXT North American Champion and a genuine show-stealer.
- Tyler Bate, the inaugural WWE UK Champion and an all around #BigStrongBoy.
- Tommaso Ciampa, a former NXT Champion who never truly lost the title and has come back from a severe neck injury.
A star-studded group of six, but the winner is… ADAM COLE. Seems the Undisputed Era didn’t need to go far after that Tag Team of the Year category. This comes as no surprise to them, of course. “How many more things can we win?” “Can we just stay out here?” Regal presents Cole with his Golden Bell, and Cole figured it could’ve just been his award in the middle of 2019. November alone proved that. But not just best in NXT, but best in all of the WWE, and 2020 will be no different. In fact, the 2020’s as a decade! Ding ding. It’ll just be The Adam Cole Award or something. But Cole is so proud, and yet not at all shocked, that this award is his, BAYBAY. Another group hug!
Now to the NXT Female Competitor of the Year!
In an equally competitive field, it was a tough task narrowing it down. But here are your nominees:
- Shayna Baszler, the first and only two-time NXT Women’s Champion and winner of the Survivor Series Women’s Champions Triple Threat.
- Io Shirai, who has been impressive as both the Good and the EVIL Genius of the Sky.
- Toni Storm, the second-ever NXT UK Women’s Champion, who vows to become the first-ever two-time.
- Kay Lee Ray, the current NXT UK Women’s Champion who vows to deny #ToniTime from restarting.
- Bianca Belair, The EST of NXT up and down.
- Rhea Ripley, the inaugural NXT UK Women’s Champion, and the ONLY woman to have held both NXT and NXT UK Women’s Championships in her career.
Dominant years and incredible transformations, but the winner is… Shayna Baszler! The two-time and total longest reigning NXT Women’s Champion has her Horsewomen by her side as she walks out to accept her Golden Bell from Regal. “Of course I won Female Competitor of the Year.” She’s the most dominant woman in the entire WWE. And if you think her losing to Rhea stops that, “think again.” The Horsewomen head back out, will they regroup and rise back up in 2020?
Pat and Sam agree that with those 548 days as the top woman in NXT, Shayna is not to be taken lightly. Shayna definitely deserves this award. Anyone can have a good night, but the Queen of Spades was a warrior to have the total run she’s had. And chances are, she’s even more dangerous now than when she was champion. But there is still Overall Competitor of the Year, so naturally Adam Cole and Shayna Baszler are in that category, who will be THE NXT Superstar of 2019?
NXT returns with the award for Rivalry of the Year!
Sam’s personal favorite award names the best, most passionate feuds between superstars. And those rivalries make the matches even greater! Full on hatred, even! And with that, the winner is… Adam Cole VS Johnny Gargano! This heated feud over the NXT Championship stretched from TakeOver: New York to TakeOver: Toronto to TakeOver: XXV, ending in an insane Three Stages of Hell, from a normal singles match to a Street Fight to an ASYLUM MATCH.
To accept the award, Johnny Gargano walks out to the ring for his Golden Bell. But then Adam Cole makes his entrance so that he may accept his second Golden Bell of the night. The two familiar foes stare down for a moment, but Gargano says this is his second Rivalry of the Year award. It’s apparently a sign that he gets involved with “a lot of horrible people.” Oh, haha. But people talked about this rivalry as one of the best wrestling trilogies. But out of curiosity, who won again? Well Gargano’s biggest regret is that when Cole visited the Gargano’s Deli in Ohio, Gargano’s 77-year-old father didn’t just punch Cole right in the face. Keep talking and Cole might punch Gargano in the face. Gargano eggs Cole on but Cole says they need to be professional about this. “Some things never change.” Will these two spark a new rivalry with each other in the New Year?
Sam loves the new attitude Gargano has. That attitude is going to be what helps Gargano get back on top and after some titles. Pat also wishes Gargano’s dad would’ve punched Cole, too. But congrats to that feud that teared the house down multiple times. And speaking of great matches, we continue the countdown with NXT’s second best match of the year!
Second Best Match of the Year – NXT WarGames III, 11/23/19
Women’s WarGames: Team Ripley VS Team Baszler!
The Head Baddie was taken out and the culprit will be found, but for now she, Candice LeRae and Team Kick, Kai and Nox, are going 4v4 against the NXT Women’s Champion, the NXT UK Women’s Champion, the EST and the Evil Genius! History is being made to open the show, who survives to still go on to Survivor Series?
The sirens blare and the cage lowers. The rules are run down: each team sends a brave first volunteer in. Team Baszler has the advantage, meaning they will send a new member first each three-minute round. Only once all eight superstars are in can the match officially end.
Stepping up for Team Baszler, it is Io Shirai! For Team Ripley, it is Candice LeRae! Mrs. Wrestling wants payback on the Evil Genius for turning on her. The cage is closed, the bell rings and five minutes counts down. Shirai pie faces but Candice fires off! It is a furious brawl already! Candice tackles Shirai but Shirai turns it around. They get up, Shirai kicks Candice then throws her at the cage. Candice stops herself to hit Shirai back. Candice tilt-o-whirl headscissors but Shirai handsprings through! Shirai ducks the enziguri to waistlock. Candice blocks and standing switches, full nelson and lift, to a DDT! Shirai crawls away to the second ring, but Candice just builds speed! Candice DIVES, into a forearm! Candice gets stuck in the middle, Shirai runs to 619 her in the back! Candice flounders but Shirai goes again, redial the 619!
Shirai soaks up the cheers and jeers as she has Candice stuck in the alley, METEORA! Candice flops and crawls back to the first ring as Shirai takes aim. Shirai hops up and springboards in to missile dropkick Candice down! Fans are fired up as Shirai toys with Candice. Shirai neck wrenches but Candice fights up. Shirai bumps Candice off buckles then runs corner to corner, a big corner dropkick! We reach the two minute warning as Shirai grinds her boot into Candice. Fans duel as Shirai brings Candice back to the middle. Shirai whips Candice but Candice blocks! Candice reverses but Shirai drop toeholds Candice onto the steel! Shirai grinds Candice’s face into the cage wall! The time is almost up, and Shirai is just toying with Candice at this point. Candice hits a jawbreaker!
Shirai staggers, but sends Candice into the corner! Then snap suplexes! Shirai grinds Candice down, and fans want to know what time it is on the clock. The clock returns for the countdown as Candice puts Shirai in a corner. The cages open up, and here comes Bianca Belair! Candice climbs up, leaps over her, then turns around into a shoulder block! Bianca chicken wings Candice to Glam Slam and shooting star! Bianca dares Candice to get up, but reels her in for a powerbomb lift, only for Candice to huricanrana her into buckles! Candice CHOPS Shirai and backs her down with forearms! Candice fires off, then dodges to send Bianca into her! Candice fires off on both of them! Candice runs in but only gets Shirai. Bianca DECKS Candice! And then another lift, POWERBOMB! But then a second! And a third, into the cage! Fans fire up for the pure power of The EST!
Shirai and Bianca bully Candice with stomps, then Bianca puts Candice in a camel clutch. Shirai builds speed, faster and faster and faster, to basement dropkick Candice down! Fans are loving this action already, and the countdown returns! Here comes Team Ripley’s… TEAM CAPTAIN! Rhea herself rushes to the ring! And she stops by under the ring to get a trash can! Chicago loves things getting extreme! Rhea tosses the can in, Bianca just gets clear, but then Rhea slams the door shut on Bianca! Rhea hurries to get more goodies, and brings out even MORE trash cans! Rhea puts those in, but goes back for even more, and has kendo sticks! And then chairs! Fans of course want tables, but Rhea gets more chairs first. Rhea gets in and looms over Bianca. Rhea drags Bianca up and atomic SLAMS Bianca on one of those trash cans!
Candice and Shirai brawl in the second ring while Rhea goes to get a chair. Rhea sits that chair up and Candice comes over to borrow one. Rhea bounces Bianca off whatever is around, and then works with Candice to make a chair square. Rhea and Candice go after Bianca together, and they double suplex, but Shirai saves Bianca! The four brawl all over, Bianca knees and clubs Rhea down hard! The countdown returns already, and Baszler adds KLR! She goes under the ring to bring out even more chairs! And then, as Chicago wants, a table! Only to put that back. KLR doesn’t care what fans want,s he gives Rhea and Candice some chair shots! And then Rhea gets a tornado DDT to a chair! KLR grins as she looms over Rhea and Candice. Team Baszler regroups and decides to use Rhea’s work against her.
Bianca is up top, KLR decks Rhea onto the chairs. Candice hurries to stop Bianca, elbows KLR away, and climbs up to join Bianca! Rhea helps out, but Shirai jumps in! Shirai throws Bianca away and KLR gets Candice. Rhea is thrown into the cage wall and KLR folds up all the chairs. KLR and Shirai go after Candice, aiming at the pile they’ve made. Rhea gets in and gets KLR and Shirai! TOWER OF DOOM! Double Powerbomb German Superplex, all onto the chairs!! Bianca stays on the top rope as fans cheer, “NXT! NXT!” 450 onto Rhea and the chairs!! All five women are down and the countdown returns! Team Ripley now sends in Dakota Kai! Captain Kick BOOTS Tegan Nox?! She’s beating up her best friend! She grabs Tegan’s arm from the outside to YANK her into the bars! And then SLAMS the door closed on Tegan’s bad legs!! It was Dakota who attacked Mia, wasn’t it?! But why!? Why is she doing this now!?
William Regal pulls Dakota off Tegan but Dakota shoves him back! Dakota has lost her damn mind! But Shayna just laughs. Now Team Ripley is down two women! Dakota come back!? Regal drags Dakota off Tegan, and Dakota shouts at Rhea. This is all because Dakota wasn’t chosen in the first place! And the countdown returns, so obviously, who is left to enter? The Queen of Spades! She grins and does the math for us: 4v2! Shayna leaves Tegan behind, Dakota did enough. Shayna takes her time as her team beats down Rhea and Candice. Shirai keeps Candice down while KLR and Bianca drag Rhea up. Rhea fights out and fights back! But that’s 3v1! Shayna knees Rhea down! Bianca goes to fetch a trash can and wedges it into a corner. KLR borrows a kendo stick as she helps Shira beat down Candice.
This match finally can start and finish, as KLR and Shirai double suplex. But Candice double DDT’s! Those there are down but Candice crawls her way over. Shayna and Bianca beat Rhea down, and then Shayna handcuffs Rhea! But Candice saves Rhea from being trapped! The two regroup in the middle, but Team Baszler flanks them on both sides… WIth no choice, they fight! Candice uses a trash can lid to SMACK away while Rhea takes Shayna down! Candice has KLR and Shirai down, but Shirai hits back. Bianca helps Shayna get back at Rhea, but Rhea throws her into that wedged can! Rhea hurries to help Candice, she dropkicks KLR into Shirai on the top rope! KLR turns Rhea around, but the tornado is blocked! Rhea suplexes KLR into the steel! KLR grinds down the cage wall!
Rhea sees Shirai stuck up top and heads right over. Rhea climbs up but Shirai fights back. Rhea stomps Shirai down, then laces the legs, for a HANGING Inverted Cloverleaf! Shirai endures, but Shayna has Candice in a HANGING KIRAFUDA! Who gives up on their hold? Candice fights out to SHORYUKEN! KLR KICKS Rhea down! ICONOCLASM onto a chair for Shayna! Candice LIONSAULTS! Cover, but Bianca uses a trash can to break it! Bianca drags Candice up to trophy lift, and long dart at Rhea! KLR drags Candice up, Gory BOMB! Shirai is up top, DESCENT INTO DARKNESS! Cover, but Rhea barrels through KLR to break it! Rhea throws KLR hard into steel! And BOOTS Shirai! Bianca HAIR WHIPS Rhea over and over and over! Candice kendo SMACKS away on Bianca over and over and over!
Shirai ducks the kendo to kick, TIGER BACKBREAKER! Shirai drags Candice into a drop zone, climbs up, and then climbs ALL the way up! But Candice pursues right after her! KLR goes after Candice, and the three are way up top. KLR has the Electric Chair, but gets a SUPER POISON RANA!! Cover, but Bianca breaks it! Those three are down, as are Shayna and Rhea in the first ring. Bianca gets up and brings Candice into the torture rack. Candice slips out of the KOD! She has the hair, but Shirai FLIES!! SUPER DESCENT INTO DARKNESS!!! Chicago is thunderous for “NXT! NXT!” while losing their minds! “MAMMA MIA!” echoes out as all six women are down. But Rhea rises to go after Shayna with a SMACK of the chair! Chair shot after chair shot, and then Rhea sits this chair up. She sets two together and sits a can in place.
But KLR leaps in, only to get SMASHED by the can! KIRAFUDA KLUTCH!! Rhea is caught, there are no ropebreaks in this match, but Rhea pries the hold open. Shayna switches hands, Rhea starts fading, but Rhea remembers the handcuffs! She cuffs herself to Shayna?! And then just knees away on her!! Rhea kicks a leg out, but her buzzsaw misses. Pumphandle, RIPTIDE ONTO CHAIRS!! Cover, Team Ripley wins!?
Winner: Team Ripley, Rhea Ripley by pinfall
The irony is that Dakota gets the win for the night because she was on the team! But in the end, history is still made as the team of only two wins!
The panel discusses this historic match.
Historic and brutal, especially Captain Kick turning on her team as well as her best friend, Tegan Nox. The women stole the weekend in Chicago, from this to Survivor Series, and 2020 will only get bigger for all of NXT. The NXT Women’s Division might be the best of any Women’s Division in the world today. And while we’re looking to the future…
Here are the nominees for NXT Future Star of the Year:
- KUSHIDA, the NJPW acquisition that has already shown this is his time.
- Xia Li, the first ever Chinese-born female superstar to compete in the WWE, whose “spicy” style definitely has kick.
- Bronson Reed, the literally biggest Breakout Tournament participant who is ready to show what Aussie Strong Style is capable of.
- Tegan Nox, who has powered through severe knee injuries with the power of the Shiniest Wizard.
- Dakota Kai, who was right there with Tegan, until her savage and shocking betrayal at WarGames III.
- Ilja Dragunov, the Moscow Madman making major waves in NXT UK.
- Isaiah “Swerve” Scott, the Breakout Tournament superstar that oozes confidence.
- Taynara Conti, the Brazilian black belt in Judo, who vows to prove “Latinas Do It Better.”
- Cameron Grimes, the Breakout Tournament finalist who wants to Cave-In the competition.
Week after week, these superstars and many more are showing that the future is bright for NXT. The winner is… Dakota Kai! Sam admits he is eating some crow, but the change in her attitude and style has proven to him that she is ready for the big time.
Dakota makes her way out with a satisfied smile on her face, but also just a hint of annoyance in having to come out here at all. She takes the Golden Bell from Regal. “NXT Future Star?” She knew this all along. Everyone that voted for her are just late tot he party. Dakota makes her own opportunities now. Dakota sneers as she leaves, but will she be leaving 2019 in her rear view for bigger and better?
The Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic is back again!
“I’ve always loved the competitiveness of the great tag teams of the past.” Dusty’s contribution not only to NXT but to the WWE and pro-wrestling as a whole is once again honored by this great tournament. First it was the unlikely duo of Samoa Joe and Finn Balor. Then it was the dominant duo of the Authors of Pain. Then the Undisputed Era #ShockTheSystem thanks to Roderick Strong betraying Pete Dunne by helping Adam Cole and Kyle O’Reilly. And most recently, it was another unlikely duo in Aleister Black and Ricochet. “Now we look for tag teams of the future.”
The 2020 Dusty Rhodes Classic is even bigger this year, because it is a crossover of both NXT and NXT UK! For NXT UK it is: The Grizzled Young Veterans; Gallus; Imperium; and South Wales Subculture! For NXT USA it is: The Forgotten Sons; The Undisputed Era’s O’Reilly & Fish; the surprising duo of Matt Riddle & Pete Dunne; and an even bigger surprise, Kushida and a mystery partner! Who is joining the Time Splitter in this amazing tradition? Who is taking the Dusty Rhodes Classic trophy for 2020?
NXT now names the TakeOver Event of the Year!
TakeOvers are always the best, because they are the culmination of the best in NXT. Each one tops the last. Pat will go so far as to say that TakeOvers aren’t just the best events in wrestling, but in all of entertainment! They’re just the best thing you could watch at all! But with so many to choose from in just 2019, what was THE BEST TakeOver of the Year? That would be… TakeOver: WarGames III!! After all, it had the historic Women’s WarGames, the epic Men’s WarGames to main event, and was all around “the most savage evening” in wrestling that Pat’s ever seen, certainly in Chicago. Congrats for being a game-changing trail-blazing night! And of course, many of those competitors from that night are in this next category…
NXT Breakout Competitor of the Year!
Your nominees are:
- Damien Priest, the Archer of Infamy and all around scary human being.
- Piper Niven, the dominant Scottish Viper and inspiration to us all for her perseverance.
- Dominik Dijakovic, the Croatian Colossus who moves like now towering titan should be able to.
- Angel Garza, El Latino en la Casa and the NEW NXT Cruiserweight Champion.
- Joe Coffey, the Iron King and leader of Gallus, poised to potentially take down Walter in Blackpool.
- Keith Lee, the Limitless One with memorable moment after memorable moment.
- Candice LeRae, aka Mrs. Wrestling, who is going to live her dream by any means necessary.
- Matt Riddle, The Original Bro who is ready to fight anyone anywhere, anytime.
- Rhea Ripley, who is again the first and only woman to hold both NXT UK and NXT Women’s Championships in her career.
And Cathy can’t help but be biased about this category, because one of her favorites won this award. And to present the Golden Bell, it’s Triple H! HHH is honored to present the award to… KEITH LEE! Lee takes the bell with pride and thanks all those who voted for him. “Thank you for your passion, your pride, your love.” And you ain’t seen nothing yet.
Pat loves Keith being the ultimate combination of size, speed and mic skills! An outstanding 2019, and a truly amazing 2020 is coming. Sam agrees that no one had a year like Keith Lee. Big impacts on all three brands, a pinfall on Seth Rollins and the respect of Roman Reigns, this track is leading Keith Lee to the very top of the WWE. He is the gift that keeps on giving gifs, what more memorable moments will we see as we #BaskInHisGlory?
NXT returns with THE Match of the Year for 2019!
Well when you have a Rivalry of the Year like Gargano VS Cole, of course one of their matches is in this countdown! But which one of their three is THE Number One Best Match of NXT 2019?
NXT Match of the Year 2019 – NXT TakeOver: New York, 4/5/19
NXT Championship 2-out-of-3 Falls Match: Johnny Gargano VS Adam Cole!
No matter what happens, history is being made tonight! The title is vacant, and this match will have a definitive winner. But will that definitive winner be Undisputed? Or will he be NXT’s first Triple Crown Champion?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we begin the first fall!
Fans are divided between the Panama City Playboy and #IronJohnny even before the bell. Cole and Gargano hear it all as they slowly circle. Gargano and Cole slowly approach and tie up. Gargano waistlocks and brings Cole down then holds on as Cole rolls. Cole breaks free and backs off, and he circles with Gargano again. Cole headlocks but Gargano pries his way out. Gargano steps over to a hammerlock then gets Cole’s other arm. Gargano makes it a cover, ONE, but he holds onto the hammerlock. Cole sits up and switches to a hammerlock of his own. He shifts to another headlock, but Gargano pries his way out. Fans continue to duel as Gargano gets Cole in the headlock. Cole powers out and avoids Gargano going up and over to get the headlock takeover. Gargano works against the hold but Cole holds on.
Fans rally and Gargano stands up. Gargano powers out but Cole runs him over with a shoulder. Things speed up and Gargano hurdles and standing switches. Cole bucks Gargano but Gargano dodges the Last Shot knee. Gargano rolls Cole but Cole slips out. Cole misses the boot but Gargano misses the mule kick. Both men dodge more, Gargano gets Cole with an arm-drag and fans applaud! Cole arm-drags but Gargano arm-drags him again. Gargano has Cole down, grinding a knee into his head and twisting the wrist. Fans duel as Cole gets up and Gargano yanks his arm. Gargano wrenches but Cole whips. Gargano runs Cole over and sees Cole’s duck coming, so he hops on for a headlock! Cole scrambles and gets a ropebreak! Gargano lets go and backs off.
Gargano comes back but gets a forearm from Cole! Cole walks into Gargano’s forearm and now both men throw forearms back and forth. Cole gets the edge and has Gargano in a corner. He wrenches and whips Gargano corner to corner but Gargano goes up and over. Gargano rolls and whips Cole then headscissors and dropkicks Cole down. He clotheslines Cole up and out, then heads to the corner. Gargano aims from the apron, but Cole runs away from the canonball. So Gargano wrecks him with a dropkick from the ropes! Gargano drags Cole back up and into the ring, but Cole scrambles all the way out the other side .The ref keeps Gargano back for a moment, and Gargano walks into Cole’s enziguri! Gargano gets to a corner and Cole hurries over.
Cole drags Gargano up for forearms, then CHOPS! Cole decks Gargano with another forearm, then drags Gargano up for a cravat. He drives in knees and Gargano drops to a knee. Cole stalks Gargano then drives in a knee for a chinlock. Gargano endures and fans rally up. Cole puts pressure on the hold but Gargano gets a second wind. Gargano stands up and fights back with forearms. He runs but into Cole’s back elbow! Cole drags Gargano for a cover, ONE! Cole drives elbows in then wraps on a dragon sleeper! Gargano fights back but Cole holds on tight. Fans rally up again and Gargano powers up. Gargano fights back again and breaks free. Cole headlocks again but Gargano powers out. Things speed up, double crossbodies wipe both men out!
Cole and Gargano slowly stand up and they start throwing forearms. Gargano gets the edge and starts rallying. Cole runs into Gargano’s overhead belly2bellY! Gargano rolls Cole, TWO and Cole has the cover, TWO! Cole runs but into a rebound school boy kick! Cole bails out and Gargano slingshots, but Cole gets back in, only to get a slingshot spear! Cover, TWO! Gargano keeps his cool while Cole gets to ropes. Cole goes to a corner and Gargano runs in for a chop! Gargano whips but Cole reverses. Cole runs into boots, then Gargano hops up. Gargano fakes out the superkick to hit a tornado complete shot! Cover, TWO! Cole denies the first fall but Gargano keeps his cool. Gargano gets up and drags Cole to his feet.
Gargano suplexes but Cole knees out. Cole suplexes but Gargano slips out. Gargano full nelsons but Cole slips out. Cole waistlocks but Gargano fights back. Cole shoves Gargano to a corner, deflects, draping backstabber! Cover, TWO! Gargano refuses to let Cole take the first fall. Cole slowly stands up but Gargano follows. Cole is on Gargano first but Gargano holds on, so Cole clubs away. Gargano counters the suplex to a cradle, TWO! Cole has it, TWO, back to Gargano, TWO and Cole has it again! TWO, and both men stand. Cole fireman’s carry but Gargano slips out only to get an elbow.
Gargano ends up in a corner but he goes up and over to school boy Cole again. Cole sees it all coming and ducks the kick. Gargano slides under but gets an enziguri! Cole brings down the knee pad and runs, but Gargano rolls him up! TWO and Cole has Gargano, TWO! Both men show superkick and that gets them to hesitate. Gargano mule kicks Cole’s knee out! Gargano buzzsaws but Cole ducks it to mule kick Gargano back. Cole tries another superkick but Gargano ducks that to victory roll, TWO! Cole kicks low and runs, but Gargano dodges and runs to sunset flip. Roll through to sit Gargano up, Last Shot shining wizard! Cover, Cole scores the first fall!
Adam Cole: 1; Johnny Gargano: 0
This is a huge advantage for Cole and Gargano finds himself behind the 8 Ball. Can Gargano make a huge comeback? Or will this be over quickly?
Cole brings his knee pad back up while he watches Gargano flounders to a corner. Fans rally and Gargano manages to stand. The second fall officially starts and Cole fires off! Cole punches and stomps Gargano down then brushes his hands. He drags Gargano up but Gargano fires forearms back. Gargano spins but nito a German Suplex! Cole runs and hits another Last Shot! Cover, TWO!! Gargano survives and Cole is annoyed. Cole drags Gargano up into a fireman’s carry. Gargano grabs ropes and fights free but gets a right forearm. Cole joins Gargano on the apron, only to get a SPEAR! Both men tumble but Gargano’s back up for a cannonball! Gargano drags himself up then drags Cole up and in. Gargano refuses to do this by count-out, but his slingshot DDT is caught into Ushigoroshi! Cover, TWO!!
Gargano survives and Cole is starting to wonder what it’ll take for this second fall. Cole climbs up but Gargano anchors his feet. Cole and Gargano brawl, and Cole drags Gargano up top. Gargano holds on for dear life, then grabs Cole for a SUPER AIR RAID CRASH! Cover, TWO!! Cole survives Gargano’s take on Tommaso Ciampa’s move, but Gargano crawls over to him. Gargano drags Cole closer to ropes then goes to the apron. Gargano would slingshot but Cole flops down. Cole joins Gargano on the apron again, but Gargano brings him up. Cole fireman’s carry again but Gargano slips out to enziguri! Gargano slingshots to DDT Cole on the apron! Both men fall to the floor and the referee checks on them. They’re both somehow okay to continue and a ring count begins.
Fans duel as both men stir. Gargano sits up at 3 and drags Cole up at 5. Cole is dead weight and the count is climbing, so Gargano leaves Cole to the count’s mercy. No, wait, he refreshes the count? But Cole shoves him into a post! And then another! Cole puts Gargano in and follows to bring the knee pad down again. But Gargano grabs an arm! Gargano again borrows a move from Ciampa, the bridging Fujiwara! Cole endures and pops through for a crucifix! But Gargano slips right out to put on his GargaNO Escape! Cole taps, Gargano ties it up!!
Adam Cole: 1; Johnny Gargano: 1
Now it’s sudden death! With just one last fall to go, who will win it all to become NXT Champion!?
Gargano has a bloody eyebrow, but he wills himself to sit up. Cole gets himself to ropes while the ref patches up Gargano. The third and decisive fall officially begins, and Cole glares daggers at Gargano. Gargano and Cole both stand and Brooklyn is fired up for “NXT! NXT!” Cole and Gargano trade forearms back and forth, fast and furious! Gargano gets the edge and runs, into a bicycle boot! And another! But Gargano returns with a roaring elbow on the rebound! Gargano calls upon DIY but Cole dodges the mule kick. Cole enziguris but misses, Gargano’s buzzsaw hits! Gargano runs and tilt-o-whirls, but Cole blocks into Last Shot Brainbuster! Cover, TWO!! Cole’s frustration grows but so does the energy from the crowd.
Cole gets to a corner and hops up but Gargano pursues. Gargano then gets away but Cole brings him in for buckle bumps. Fans duel as Cole puts Gargano in position. Cole climbs up but Gargano enziguris! Gargano scoops Cole for a corner-to-corner LONG DART! Full Nelson Facebuster, the Hurts Donut! Cover, TWO! Cole survives and Gargano starts to see his own blood. Gargano and Cole both get up and throw forearms on his knees. They stand and still throw hands, but Cole gets the edge. Cole aims, but Gargano blocks the kick to give one. Cole blocks that but gets an enziguri, to give an enziguri! Both men stay up, throw more hands, but then they both SUPERKICK! They take each other down but fans give a standing ovation! Gargano and Cole stir as fans cheer for “Both These Guys!”
Cole and Gargano meet and swing, but Cole waistlocks and clubs away. Cole swings Gargano out but Gargano forearms first. Gargano reverse-rana misses, SUPERKICK to the back! Cole straitjacket suplexes to a bridge, TWO!! Gargano still has that superhuman heart even after two falls! Cole drags Gargano up and underhooks, but Gargano avoids the driller to get the arm! But Cole saido suplexes! Cole climbs up again, leaps, but Gargano avoids the destroyer to SUPERKICK! Gargano hops up and over for a Reverse-Rana! MULE KICK! But Cole tumbles out of the ring! Gargano can’t believe Cole’s luck. But Gargano also gets a wild idea. Gargano turns to run but Cole drags him out for a wheelbarrow suplex into the apron!! Cole may have just broke #IronJohnny! Cole drags Gargano up and in, and fans know “This is Awesome!”
Gargano springs up and gets Cole with a draping DDT! Another shout-out to Ciampa! But then slingshot DDT added on! Cover, TWO!? Cole survives two DDT’s so Gargano DIVES! Gargano sends Cole into barriers but then into the ring, slingshot- SUPERKICK! Cole leaps for a Panama Sunrise DESTROYER!! Cover, TWO!?! Gargano still lives?! Brooklyn reaches that fever pitch again but this match is far from over. That’s just fine by them, too, because the fans chant “Fight Forever!” Gargano crawls to an apron but Cole scrapes him out. Cole pursues, also not content for the ring count to take care of this. He says Gargano’s a failure and a disappointment, and he pie faces Gargano down. Gargano keeps getting up but Cole keeps pushing him down. “What you do is fail!” Gargano doesn’t fail to forearm Cole back!
Gargano throws Cole over the announce desk! And then he clears it off! Brooklyn is loving this as Gargano drags Cole onto the table top! Cole hits back, underhooks, butterfly driver onto the table! And it doesn’t break! Cole steals Ciampa’s Fairy Tale Ending to end Gargano! Fans lose their minds and want “One More Time!” Cole returns to the ring to leave Gargano for dead. The ring count begins, but Gargano somehow sits up at 4! Gargano drags himself to his feet at 7 and hurries to the ring! He beats the count at 9.9!! But Cole aims, mocks DIY, SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO?!?! How is this even possible!? Cole is in disbelief while Gargano eyes are completely glazed. Fans duel again as Cole aims again. The knee pad comes down again, but Gargano SUPERKICKS Cole! Cole SUPERKICKS Gargano! Cole hops up, leaps, but into a GargaNO Escape!
But here come the Undisputed Era! Gargano hits Roderick Strong away, and then gets Cole back in GargaNo Escape! Strong argues with the ref, but that’s so Fish & O’Reilly can come around the other side! Cole is tapping but the ref doesn’t see! O’Reilly rakes Gargano’s eyes! Brooklyn boos but Cole kicks Gargano into the ref! Now the Undisputed Era swarms, TOTAL ANNIHILATION from reDRagon! Strong gets the ref back in while reDRagon runs away! Cole cover, TWO?!??! There are not enough punctuation marks that exist for this! The Undisputed Era tell Cole to finish this and fans duel so hard. Cole runs in but Gargano dumps him out onto his friends! Gargano puts Cole back in, then throws Strong into a post! He SUPERKICKS Fish then tornado DDT’s O’Reilly while kicking Fish!
Gargano gets back in, SUPERKICK! SUPERKICK! LAST SHOT WIZARD!! Cover, TWO!?! Just like I already said, there are not nearly enough punctuation! No one can believe any of this, but all the fans are loving it! Cole is starting to lose his mind, but he tells Gargano this will end. He runs again, but Gargano ducks the shot into GargaNo Escape!! Cole flails, scrambles, but Gargano rolls him away! Cole taps, Gargano wins!!!
Winner: Johnny Gargano, by submission; NEW NXT Champion
FINALLY! Not only does this match finally end, but Johnny Wrestling finally becomes Johnny Takeover! Johnny Wrestling finally becomes Johnny Champion! Johnny Wrestling becomes NXT’s first Mr. Triple Crown! Candice LeRae appears to celebrate with her husband, because they’ve finally put the past behind them, and Gargano finally stands atop the mountain! Gargano also celebrates with fans, friends, but especially family. Papa and Mother Gargano are there by their son’s side as he raises the title high overhead. He had to fight this hard to get there, how much harder will #IronJohnny fight to stay there?
Wait! Is that Tommaso Ciampa?! He has a neck brace on, as he embraces Gargano! DIY truly buries the hatchet as they and Candice celebrate together!
And there you have it!
The best match was the first time Johnny Wrestling became #JohnnyChampion. It blew the roof off the place, and while Cole had the better year, it wouldn’t have been possible without Gargano, too. But now, the final and most important award of the year…
Best Overall NXT Competitor of the Year!
Sam has his pick but he won’t tell Pat in case it ruins the chances. With Adam Cole and Shayna Baszler as the respective Male and Female Competitors of the Year, the one with the most votes is… ADAM COLE, BAYBAY! Sam knew it!
The Undisputed Era again goes out to the ring, and with this, the quartet will have not one, not two, but SIX Golden Bells to hold! Cole himself accounts for FOUR of those bells with Best Male, Best Match, Best Rivalry and now this. He almost can’t get in the ring he’s got so many things to hold. He has to set his other two and Roddy even holds onto one of the others while Cole takes this newest prize. “First and foremost, I want to take a second to appreciate the Undisputed Era.” Just looking at them right here, right now, they are champions. They are winners. They are led by the Overall Competitor of the Year, meaning there is not one single superstar in NXT or in the WORLD that can touch him. He proves that time and time again.
The Undisputed Era IS NXT, and that’s not a catchphrase. This moment proves it. And Cole promises that this is only the beginning. This is not anywhere close tot he end. The Era of the Undisputed has only just begun. “God it feels good to be a winner.” Bells up and group hug, boys! Strong helps Cole pick up the bells and Fish asks for some assistance, “a lot of hardware.” “This is your future. This is NXT right here.” “We run this. Not you. Us. We do.” Braggadocios but backing it up, will NXT ever not be Undisputed?
My Thoughts:
NXT clearly took it easy for the holidays, but honestly, they earned it. As I said for Survivor Series, they have been the best part of WWE’s weekly programming every week without argument, so they can do something like this and still be really fun to watch. For a mostly copypaste night, this still had a lot of good original content, such as the awards presentations. But I kinda wished the arena wasn’t COMPLETELY empty. Why not have the other superstars sit out there and react to the award winners? How great would it have been for Candice to be there cheering Gargano for the awards he was part of, or for someone like Mia Yim or Rhea Ripley to boo Dakota Kai when she won. But at the same time, I suppose the part of the NXT roster that didn’t win or even get nominated earned their holidays off by just being a great supporting cast the whole year.
All the choices tonight were great. The top three matches of 2019 were definitely top matches for me. I probably would’ve gone with the TakeOver: XXV match rather than New York, but I suppose even that was too over-the-top to be better than a standard 2-outta-3 Falls with just a bunch of chaos. Also might’ve been too violent to put on USA Network… The fans did great in choosing all these winners, they really are all worthy. And those Dusty Rhodes Classic participants are going to give us great matches. I just wish NXT UK had more teams because their four are literally the four we’re going to see in TakeOver: Blackpool II’s Fatal 4 Way Ladder match. And seeing that we’ve had two unlikely duos win and two established teams win, this fifth year will be a tiebreaker, but I’m leaning towards established team. Depending on how tag titles go, I’d love to see whoever is the NXT UK Tag Team Champions by the end win the whole thing for extra history added on top.
My Score: 8.2/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Can the Last Real Champion handle The Truth?
While the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments reach their semifinals, John Cena has his first match on SmackDown in years, against Ron Killings!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss; Asuka wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson; No Contest.
- King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn; Orton wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice; Charlotte wins.
- Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight; Knight wins, by disqualification.
- John Cena VS Ron Killings; Killings wins, by disqualification.
PLAY BY PLAY
LA Knight is here!
Grand Rapids fires up as the Mega Star marches right to the ring. Knight grabs a mic while the fans chant his name, and he says, “LEMME TALK TO YA!” The fans cheer, and Knight says, “Let’s just go ahead and rewind our mind a little bit. We go to back to Money in the Bank, Seth and his boys, they just happen to come down and screw this guy.” The fans boo that. Knight says usually, he lets things slide. But he just figured he couldn’t let it slide, so he made sure to screw on of Rollins’ boys in their title opportunity, King of the Ring. But then they came back, paid it back and screwed Knight outta KOTR, so he had to go and screw the other one over!
And it just has Knight thinking. Fans “YEAH!” and Knight says there is only one way this can go. He has gone back and forth between Raw and SmackDown, where it ends, nobody knows! Except Knight! He knows! He knows where this ends! The fans cheer that! And Knight says it ends with him and Rollins! And what better place than here? And what better time than now! Knight tells Rollins to come on out and talk to him! But “Ladies and gentlemen…” The fans boo as Paul Heyman walks out and gives his introductions. He serves as the Wise Man to Mr. Money in the Bank, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins!
Heyman says you do not boo that name. And you screwed up your cue, so they’ll do this again. He serves as the Wise Man for Seth Freakin’ Rollins! The fans keep booing, Heyman wants to try again, but Knight says shut up and get to the point! Why is Heyman here?! Heyman walks to the ring and asks permission to step inside. The fans chant “O T C! O T C!” but Knight steps back. Heyman steps into the ring, and he says yes, there has been a lot of bad blood between Knight and Mr. MITB, Seth Freakin’ Rollins. However, Heyman happens to be, with all due respect to everyone here in Grand Rapids, Michigan…
The fans chant “C M PUNK!” at Heyman now and he frowns. Knight says Heyman has a lot of enemies. Heyman says he is the biggest LA Knight fan in all of WWE! Heyman’s been waiting a long time to say this: YEAH! Now, because of that, Seth Freakin’ Rollins (the fans boo again) has allowed Heyman to say to Knight, as a favor to Heyman… It is time for Knight to get the hell outta Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because if he does not, something really bad is going to happen to him before the end of the night. Have a nice evening. Heyman turns to go but the fans cheer Knight on. Knight says he couldn’t help but notice, but did you~ (poking fun at Heyman’s voice cracking) threaten Knight?
Because Knight wants to wrap his head around this. He’s heard Heyman say stuff like this before, because Heyman is a liar, a swindler, a grifter, a scammer and a schemer! Heyman leeches on to any talent that has a bit of hype, sucks ’em dry, then moves on to the next! Rollins just happens to be the latest in this. But where next? Who cares! But the bottom line is, Knight asked for Rollins but he got Heyman. And while he got Heyman, he got a Heyman out here talking all tough. So it has Knight thinking, he has a great idea.
Talking about wise man, wisdom, there was a point in time if Heyman had said something like that, a man like Knight would look at a “thing” like Heyman and punched his wisdom teeth down his throat! Knight won’t do that, yet. But here’s the deal: Heyman’s talking all tough, but if he can’t bring Rollins out here, then the only thing to do out here in Grand Rapids is Knight fighting Heyman here and now! The fans fire up for that! Knight asks if the fans want that, and they cheer! “HUH?” “YEAH!” “HUH?” “YEAH!” “YEAH!!” Knight promises he’ll turn around, take his vest off, and Heyman gets the first shot. He better make it good, or Knight will molly whop his ass right outta Grand Rapids!
The fans fire up as Knight does as promised. He turns around, his vest is off, but Heyman bails? The fans boo as the Wise Man doesn’t play along. Heyman says, “Remember when I told you to get the hell out of Grand Rapids or else something really bad is gonna happen to you before the end of the night? That wasn’t a prediction. That… was a spoiler!” Heyman throws down his mic, and here comes Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker! Rollins’ behemoths head to the ring, but Knight fires off on them first! The fans rally as Knight throws hands and feet, but then Bron TACKLES Knight! Bronson joins in and they mug Knight right out of the ring!
Bronson drags Knight up to TOSS him over barriers! Bron clears the desk, he wants Bronson to put Knight through it! But Knight has a chair! He JAMS Bron, JAMS Bronson, then SMACKS Bron and SMACKS Bronson! Knight gets in the ring, ready to hit whoever gets in! The fans cheer Knight but Heyman has Bron & Bronson stand down. Will Heyman have the henchmen try again before the end of tonight?
SmackDown returns and…
Heyman has Bron & Bronson calm down, they have this under control. It is all in their favor, and it always will be in their favor. That is the whole point behind this. Byron Saxton steps in and wants to talk to them, but Heyman has to hold Bron back like the dog he is! Heyman says no need to bite Byron. Byron apologizes, he has word from SmackDown GM, Nick Aldis, that Bronson Reed VS LA Knight is set for tonight. Heyman says okay, thank you, and goodbye. Byron leaves and Heyman smiles. He told them! Patience is not a virtue, it is strategy. Bronson smiles and nods. Will Auzsilla destroy LA here in Grand Rapids?
Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss!
Two great returns to action through this tournament, and now they cross paths with each other. The Empress of Tomorrow overcame Ivy Nile, Raquel Rodriguez and Stephanie Vaquer while Lil’ Miss Bliss outsmarted Alba Fyre, Candice LeRae and Charlotte Flair. But whose comeback story overtakes the other’s here just one match away from Night of Champions?
The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Alexa headlocks, but Asuka powers up and out. Alexa RAMS Asuka, Asuka roars, and the fans fire up as Asuka fires hands! Alexa blocks a kick to THROW Asuka down, then basement DROPKICK! The fans cheer as Asuka and Alexa reset. Alexa kicks, Asuka blocks and slips through to waistlock. Alexa elbows free, runs, but Asuka runs past her to then RUN her over! The fans fire up and Asuka runs in again, HIP ATTACK! Alexa falls to the floor and the fans fire up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Asuka lets Alexa stay down while she soaks up the cheers. The ring count starts, Alexa rises, but Asuka goes out after her. Alexa slips inside and DROPKICKS Asuka’s leg! Asuka falls from the apron but she has to nod respect for that savvy move. Asuka steps back in at 6 of 10, and she resets with Alexa. They circle, feel things out, and tie up. Asuka wrenches and wristlocks, but Alexa rolls and wrenches to hammerlock. Alexa waistlocks, rolls Asuka, TWO! The two stand off again and they both nod respect. They reset, the fans rally up, and the two feel things out. Asuka trips Alexa, clamps on with a headlock, and she grinds Alexa down.
Alexa endures, Asuka turns her over to go after the arm, then she stands on Alexa’s arm. Alexa endures, Asuka shifts arms, but Alexa wrenches out to wrangle Asuka. Alexa shifts to a cording hold, but Asuka fights up and fires body shots. Alexa whips Asuka to a corner, but Asuka elbows her away! And BOOTS! Asuka goes up, leaps, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Alexa stays in this but Asuka stays focused. Asuka drags Alexa around and gives her Kawada Kicks! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Asuka wrenches for a chicken wing! Alexa fights the Asuka Lock and JAWBREAKERS free! Alexa runs up to RUN Asuka over!
The fans rally as Alexa rallies, then hits a BLOCKBUSTER! The fans fire up as Alexa SLAPS, ROCKS, and KNEES Asuka down! Then SOMERSAULT SENTON! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and Alexa grows frustrated. The fans rally while Alexa brings Asuka up. Asuka breaks free to URAKEN, SOBAT, FRONT KICK, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Alexa tumbles away, Asuka runs up, SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up as Asuka stands and takes aim. But Alexa ducks the buzzsaw! Cover, TWO! Alexa clinches, TWISTED- NO, Asuka rolls Alexa up! TWO! Alexa sits up, BUZZSAW! Cover, TWO!! Alexa survives but Asuka just fires up!
The fans rally as Asuka goes to the corner. Asuka climbs from the outside, and MISSILE- NO, Alexa dodges this time! Alexa kicks and DDTS! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Alexa drags Asuka into the drop zone. Alexa goes up, up, and the fans fire up! TWISTED- NO, Asuka moves, so Alexa stops. Alexa won’t let Asuka sneak away, but then she gets caught in an ARMBAR!! Alexa flails, rolls, but ends up in an omoplata! RINGS OF SATURN!! Alexa fights around, pops her arm free for a cover, TWO!! Asuka reels Alexa in, NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Alexa stays in this! Asuka fires up, the fans are with her, and she runs up, only for Alexa to ROCK her with a right! Alexa puts Asuka in the Tree of Woe, and she DROPKICKS Asuka out of it! Alexa climbs back up, and TWISTED BLISS onto knees!! Asuka still counters the moonsault, and hits the EMPRESS IMPACT!! Cover, Asuka wins!
Winner: Asuka, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
The Empress says no one is ready for Asuka, and that has certainly been the case! But on Raw, we find out, will it be Jade Cargill or Roxanne Perez that meets Asuka in Saudi Arabia?
Jade Cargill, Mia Yim & B-Fab watch backstage.
And Fab says damn, Asuka just came back and she’s already making statements. Almost like she never left. Michin says maybe they need to make their own statements. They need to talk to Aldis about the tag titles. Fab agrees. Fab & Mia wish Jade luck before heading out. Byron walks in and asks if he can have a word. Jade says shoot. Byron says Asuka just advanced, but Jade has her match on Monday with Roxanne Perez. How does Jade feel about facing a talented competitor like Roxie? And how does she feel about the possibility of facing Asuka in the finals? Jade says “Rox” has potential. Roxie is quick and scrappy.
But she’s still trying to prove herself. And this isn’t a proving ground, this is a throne room, and Jade was built for royalty. As for Asuka, there’s a storm on the horizon. But news flash, Jade is that storm. This entire tournament wasn’t built for the future, but for a woman who can walk through fire, shatter glass ceilings, and take her crown on the way to the top. This Queen of the Ring, Jade isn’t just walking in to win. She’s here to reign. Will the Prodigy be washed away by the storm this Monday?
Alexa Bliss returns backstage.
And Chelsea Green finds her. Flanked by her Secret Her-vice, The Hot Mess asks, “Hey, little fu-fu, how’s your boo-boo?” Alexa asks back, “How’s yours?” Piper tells Chelsea not to get upset, Alexa is just jealous. Chelsea says this serves Alexa right. Chelsea should be Queen of the Ring, and she’d be building her parliament if not for Alexa! Oh, if she has that big of an issue, then try facing her in the ring. Chelsea says she will! But then Charlotte Flair walks in and says if anyone should’ve still been in this tournament, it’s her. But had Chelsea’s “replacement” tapped out sooner, maybe she would.
So here’s the deal: Charlotte will have a match made and tap Chelsea out instead. N-Not if Chelsea makes it a bank holiday! ROYAL DUTIES! NICHOLAS! Chelsea hurries away with the Secret Her-vice following, and Alexa tells Charlotte that she doesn’t need Charlotte’s help. Oh, that’s cute. Because Charlotte wasn’t helping Alexa. Charlotte leaves now, leaving Alexa to chew on that. Will The Queen chew up the Hot Mess and spit her out now that she has nothing better to do?
Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson!
The Dark Father is also directionless now that he is out of the King of the Ring tournament, but he never lets that bother him. Will he make himself the direction all roads lead when things #FadeToBlack? Or will Kit prove he can be Pretty Deadly all on his own?
Wait, who is attacking Kit? It’s R-TRUTH! But why’s Ron Killings going after Kit?! He POSTS Kit, drags him back out, and puts him in an STF!! The fans fire up and Kit taps, but it won’t matter when this isn’t a match! Killings lets Kit out of the hold and demands a mic. A mic is given, and Killings says, “Get John Cena out here now. I’m driving! On my terms! Cena, get out here!” The fans fire up and then Killings puts Kit back in the STF! Aleister is rather confused, but producers hurry out here to stop Truth. Truth lets Kit go, Jamie Noble asks Truth wait for the main event. Truth seethes, but he accepts the terms.
Killings leaves, walking right past Aleister. Will there be no denying The Truth when he finally gets his hands on the Last Real Champion?
Jamie Noble talks with Truth backstage.
Jamie says Truth has to calm down. Truth says he wants John Cena NOW! He’s driving! Yes, okay, but just wait. Truth promises that when he sees Cena, he is killing him tonight! Aleister steps in and asks Truth why he is getting involved in Aleister’s match. Truth says it wasn’t personal, it had nothing to do with Aleister. These two stare down, and then Damian Priest steps in. The Archer of Infamy has Aleister stand down. Truth is going through a lot, let Priest talk to him. Oh, of course. Aleister says, “Ron.” “Black.” Aleister leaves, Priest tells Truth that there’s no need for any of that. Priest gets Truth is frustrated, but he can’t just go beat up people for no reason.
Priest used to do that, and Truth was the guy there to make him smile. Truth made the world smile! All that anger and negativity, focus that on the match tonight. Focus that on John Cena. Go out there and handle business with Cena, then Priest and Truth can go downtown to celebrate. How’s that sound? Truth says sounds good, DP. They shake hands, and Priest heads out. Truth is still seething, but will he make sure it all explodes on Cena?
Cody Rhodes is here!
Grand Rapids sings along as The American Nightmare makes his way out, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, he high-fives fans in the front row, then looks closely at the King of the Ring’s crown. Cody goes to the ring and grabs the mic. He hears the fans cheer him on, but then Jey Uso is here! The fans fire up as Main Event Jey makes his way down through the crowd! A young fan joins in bouncing along, but so does all of Grand Rapids! Jey continues down the stands, finds another young fan, and they bounce along again. Jey then reaches ringside, high-fives the front row, and he joins Cody in the ring as we get the next wave of YEET!
Grand Rapids might want to YEET all night, but Jey hugs it out with Cody before he gets his own mic. The music dies down, the fans chant, “One More Time! One More Time!” and Cody says sure, one more is fine. Jey says okay, and yes, the fans get to YEET again! Jey says hey, Cody doesn’t even have to say nothing. They been in the trenches! “YEET!” Still in the trenches! “YEET!” From fighting The Bloodline… “YEET!” To winning tag titles… “YEET!” To finishing their stories at WrestleMania! “YEET!” They’ve both been to the mountaintop. “YEET!” But Cody, on Monday, there is only room for one of them.
The fans are intrigued, and Cody nods. Jey says there’s only one that can go. Cody VS Jey, Jey VS Cody, and Jey knows Cody will bring it. Jey has to get his, Uce. He has to, just like Cody has to get his. But that said, Uce, it ain’t personal. This all business. But that all said, too, Uce, on Monday, after they go to war, please believe that it will be four letters, one word, uh uh… YEET! Cody smiles and the fans cheer. They shake hands again, and wait! Here comes Sami Zayn! The fans cheer as the Great Liberator makes his way to the ring. Sami grabs a mic to say, “This is nice, isn’t it? I get to share the ring with two great friends.”
The fans applaud, and Sami says he is in the ring with two of the very best that this business has to offer! The fans cheer that, too! Sami says he’d be lying if he denied there was a part of him that sees the three of them in this ring, and notices how only one of them has never been world champion. Jey, Sami wants him to know, man to man, this year, Sami missed Mania. Sami had no reason to be in Las Vegas, but he got his ass on a plane to Vegas for one reason: To congratulate Jey the moment he won the World Heavyweight Championship! Sami loves Jey, and he is proud of him. And Cody, for years, everyone watched as Cody finished his story.
And when Cody did, he did the unthinkable and pinned Roman Reigns in the middle of this ring, Sami was the first one out here to congratulate Cody. Sami is so proud that Cody finished his story. So he hopes both men understand that now, it is time for Sami to finish HIS story! The fans cheer, but then here comes Randy Orton! The Viper looks at the crown, then goes to the ring. The fans sing along with Voices and Orton grabs himself a mic. “So Cody, same deal as last week but I’m gonna say it again. There is no line I will not cross, even if it means going through you, so that I can get to John Cena at SummerSlam, beat him, and get my FIFTEENTH world championship!”
The fans cheer, and Orton tells Jey, “Man, I respect the… Hell outta you, dude. Our families go way, way, way back. Nothing but love, dude. But if you’re standing across the ring from me at SummerSlam, it’s not gonna be four letters, one word. It’s gonna be three letters, one move.” The fans say it, “R K O!” And Orton says he not only speaks for himself but for everyone here in this arena when he says, and from the bottom of his heart, one day and one day soon, Sami Zayn will be world champion. But not at SummerSlam. Because tonight, Sami is on the receiving end of the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment: R K O.
Orton drops the mic, and it is time to put those words into action. Will it be the Legend Killer or the Underdog from the Underground that heads for Saudi Arabia?
King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn!
SmackDown returns, the bell rings, and these two circle. They tie up, Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, then wristlocks. Orton endures, fights up, and the fans duel. Orton wrenches Sami in return to then headlock. Sami endures, powers up to wrench again, and he grinds the arm. Sami wrenches and CHOPS, and Orton goes to the corner. Sami CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! The fans “WOO~” but the ref counts. Orton pushes past Sami, bails out of the ring, and he is pretty red already. Sami builds speed but he fakes Orton out with the Arabian Press! The fans fire up and Orton has to admit that was good.
Orton goes up the steps and steps back into the ring. The fans rally, Orton and Sami tie up, and Orton puts Sami in the corner. Orton lets off slowly, but he pokes Sami in the eyes! The fans boo but Orton UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! But Sami pokes Orton in the eyes! The ref caught that one and reprimands Sami. Sami TOSSES Orton out, goes to the apron, but Orton YANKS Sami down! Sami hits off the apron, and Orton reels him in, DESK BACK SUPLEX! Sami writhes and Orton rolls into the ring, just to refresh the count. Fans want that “One More Time!” and Orton agrees! DESK BACK SUPLEX again!
Sami writhes more and whatever monitor wasn’t busted, they’re busted now! Orton leaves Sami behind for a moment while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Orton goes out to fetch Sami, but Sami fights off a third back suplex! Orton kicks low, brings Sami over, but Sami blocks the smack off the steel steps! Orton sputters, Sami stalks him, and Sami decides to give him some payback! But Orton ROCKS Sami first! Orton SMACKS Sami off the desk, puts him in the ring, and covers, TWO! Sami stays in this but Orton looms over him. Sami rises, Orton puts him in a corner, and Orton fires body shots. Orton climbs up and rains down fists! Orton gets to eight before Sami fires back! Sami has Orton in another corner, climbs up, and Sami rains down a fast TEN!
Sami huffs ‘n’ puffs and CHOPS! Orton is stinging but Sami CHOPS him again! Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, and whips! Orton reverses, Sami hits buckles hard, and Sami falls in a heap. Orton dusts himself off and looms over Sami again. Orton stomps Sami’s hand! Sami writhes and clutches his finger. Orton stomps Sami’s foot, ten the other foot! And then the other hand! Sami sits up, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Orton CLUBS away on Sami’s chest! Orton DECKS Sami, the fans cheer, and Orton brings Sami up. Orton whips, Sami goes up and over, and Sami LARIATS Orton down! The fans fire up again as Sami rises!
Sami goes to the corner, Orton runs up, but Sami ELBOWS him! Sami goes up, AX HANDLES, and the fans fire up more! Orton takes a swing, but Sami slips around! Orton fights the Blue Thunder, then LARIATS! And LARIATS! Orton dodges Sami to SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up while Sami goes to the apron. Orton drags Sami in through the ropes, and DRAPING DDTS! The fans fire up as Orton hears those voices! Orton watches Sami rise, but then Sami bails out! The fans are torn but Sami is smart to avoid what was coming. Orton goes out to fetch Sami, SMACKS him off the desk, and then back suplexes, only for Sami to lands out!
Sami CLUBS Orton, and hits a DESK BACK SUPLEX on Orton! Sami puts Orton in the ring, goes to a corner, and the fans fire up as Orton rises. Orton runs in, Sami dodges, and Orton POSTS himself! Sami runs corner to corner, HELLUVA- SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Sami survives and Orton seethes. “This is Awesome!” as Sami goes back to a corner. Orton runs back in and he LARIATS! Orton runs but Sami follows! But Orton dodges the Helluva Kick! Sami gets stuck on the to rope, frees himself, and hobbles into an RK- NO! BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Orton survives and the fans fire up again!
“This is Awesome!” as Sami drags Orton to the drop zone. Sami goes up the corner, Orton stands and he gets under the leap! R K- NO, Sami SLAMS Orton down! And then HELLUVA- RKO!!! Orton crawls to the cover, Orton wins!!
Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
Sami fought his heart out, but the Viper still strikes! Orton is going back to back in KOTR finals, but will he win the crown this time?
Nia Jax is here!
Grand Rapids boos as The Irresistible Force goes to the ring. She grabs the mic dot say, “You know what’s crazy? Tiffany Stratton approached me to be under my wing, because she knew exactly what I could do for her. And look, she’s thriving! And what kind of thanks did I get for it? She betrayed me. She has MY title!” But wait, here comes Tiffy! Grand Rapids cheers as the WWE Women’s Champion has the mic to tell Nia, “You’re like that toxic ex I just can’t get away from. News flash: get over it! You make excuse after excuse, but when are you just gonna admit that maybe I’m just better than you?”
The fans cheer and Tiff heads to the ring. Nia says yeah, okay, if Tiff is so much better, then give Nia a rematch without kicking a chair into her face. Tiff says if Nia’s so desperate for a match, it is her lucky day! She made it official for next week: Tiff VS Nia! And Tiff will have more fun adding more scars to that “five head” of Nia’s. Because it won’t just be a regular match. It will be Last Woman Standing! Nia takes a swing but Tiff dodge! Tiff fires off, kicks low, and runs up, but into a POP-UP HEADBUTT! And then Nia drops a leg, brother! Nia holds up the belt and soaks up the heat. Nia thinks about leaving, but decides to add on! ANOTHER leg drop, brother!
The fans boo but Nia says that’s not enough! Nia tells Wade & Joe that she’s taking the title! But wait! NAOMI is here, with a ref! Is she doing it!? Is she doing it?! But Nia YANKS Naomi out! Naomi tells her back off! Nia doesn’t, Naomi shoves her, but Nia still grabs at her! Tiff DROPKICKS Naomi onto Nia! Tiff avoids a cash-in because Nia was in the way, but is she setting herself up for failure with that extreme title match?
Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice!
The Queen was denied her crown, but she’s not even angry at Alexa Bliss, the one who took that opportunity from her. She instead looks to humble the Hot Mess that claims she would be queen if her demands were met. Who vents their frustrations and comes away with the win?
SmackDown returns and Charlotte makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans actually cheer on Chelsea. Alba distracts Charlotte and Chelsea sucker punches her! The ref reprimands but Chelsea SMACKS Charlotte off the mat again and again! Chelsea salutes, but Charlotte CHOPS! Chelsea KNEES low, whips, but Charlotte goes up and out at the corner. Charlotte BOOTS Chelsea away, avoids Alba and KICKS her! Chelsea runs up, Charlotte RAMS her, and then Charlotte climbs up. CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Chelsea scrambles away and Charlotte runs up, but into an ELBOW! Charlotte GAMANGIRIS!
Charlotte snapmares, Chelsea distracts the ref, and Alba grabs Charlotte by the hair! Alba HOTSHOTS Charlotte and Chelsea hits a BACKSTABBER! Cover, TWO! Chelsea is furious but Charlotte stays in this, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Chelsea hops onto Charlotte for a SLEEPER! The fans rally, but Charlotte hits a BACKPACK SENTON! Charlotte is free, Chelsea runs back up, but Charlotte gives her a BACKBREAKER and BUCKLE SHOT! Chelsea falls back, Charlotte huffs ‘n’ puffs and runs up to fire hands! The fans fire up as Charlotte CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS! Charlotte CHOPS again, then clinches for an EXPLODER! And a kip up! The fans fire up and Charlotte salutes to poke fun at Chelsea. Charlotte runs, dodges, and handsprings to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Chelsea survives but Charlotte stays on her by going for a leg.
Alba gets on the apron, so Charlotte BOOTS her down! The fans cheer, but Charlotte turns around into a ROUGH RYDER! Cover, TWO!! Charlotte survives and Chelsea is furious! Chelsea takes off her face protector and drags Charlotte up. Chelsea has the arms, turns Charlotte, but Charlotte shoves her away! Charlotte dodges and SPEARS! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea survives but Charlotte has the leg! FIGURE- CRADLE!! TWO!! Charlotte has the leg again, FIGURE FOUR! And the bridge for the FIGURE EIGHT!! Chelsea TAPS, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
But then Piper Niven SENTONS onto Charlotte!! Alba storms in, she and Piper mug Charlotte, but here comes Alexa! She RAMS into Piper, she ROCKS Alba, then she catches Chelsea! Charlotte LARIATS Alba out while Alexa hits a TWISTED SISTER ABIGAIL! And then Charlotte BOOTS Piper down! Charlotte and Alexa look at each other, and despite what either one thinks, maybe they both need the other after all. Alexa offers the handshake, but Charlotte walks right past Alexa. Alexa lets that slide, but will Charlotte come around soon enough?
Solo Sikoa talks with JC Mateo.
Why is JC taping up? Uh, duh, he’ll take out Jacob. No, Solo is going out there alone to talk with Jacob. Solo was the only one that Jacob would listen to. Jacob needs Solo. Solo will smooth things over. JC accepts that, but Solo does say that JC should stay ready. Solo is covering his bases, but will he need the Imperial Unit to put down the Samoan Werewolf? Or will it all be alright between them all?
Solo Sikoa heads to the ring.
SmackDown returns as the former Tribal Chief makes his way out, and Grand Rapids boos. Solo grabs the mic, takes a moment, and says, “Alright, Jacob. I’m out here in the middle of the ring, all alone, with open arms, willing to talk to you face to face. I feel terrible about what happened. So if you’re back there, come on out so we can clear the air.” Jacob Fatu makes his entrance and Grand Rapids cheers! Fatu holds up the United States Championship before he steps into the ring, and he has a mic of his own. The fans cheer on “FATU! FATU!” and Solo says he didn’t come out here to fight him, okay? He’s not here for that.
Solo wants to make it clear to Fatu that he loves him, always has loved him, no matter what. One thing Solo learned from being Tribal Chief is how to love family and how to take care of them. That’s all he’s trying to do. Families fight all the time. They fight, they argue, they forgive, and then they move forward. So they should move forward together, Jacob. Move forward as one. The fans boo that, but Solo says nobody saw the potential in Jacob except Solo. Nobody wanted Jacob here in the WWE, except Solo. That is why Solo brought Fatu here and gave him the chance to change his life and put food on his family’s table.
And why did Solo do that? Because Solo loves Jacob. He does. And to be honest, Solo doesn’t have anybody else. Fatu isn’t sure about that, but Solo says all he has is Fatu. And he’s all Solo needs. So come back to the family, and even if Jacob doesn’t say those four words, Solo will. Solo will say it for him, to him, loud enough so everybody can hear it! Solo tells Jacob, “I love you, Jacob.” The fans boo, they don’t trust this. Fatu paces as he thinks on that. “So you love me, huh?” Solo nods yes. So this is what it comes down to, huh? Solo loves Fatu? The way Fatu sees things, Solo has been using Fatu! Solo has been using Fatu to gain power, to fight his battles, and to stay Tribal Chief.
Hell, Solo brought Fatu in so Fatu could bring Solo fame! Solo brought Fatu in because he thought Fatu would bring him gold! Is that all this is about? Fame? Gold? Power? SOLO, LOOK AT HIM! Solo looks up from the floor while the fans cheer Fatu on. Fatu tells Solo that ever since he won the US Championship, Solo is the one that’s been acting different. And maybe Fatu isn’t the problem. Fatu just figured it out! The problem… is this. The problem is the US Championship. Fatu sets it down between him and Solo, and he says if this is what he thinks it is, then just fight him for it! Fight Fatu for the title! The fans fire up for that!
And Solo, Fatu will only warn you one time: If you ever think about coming this way, you know what Fatu is about! You know what’s poppin’ with Fatu, blood! And you know Jacob Fatu is all gas, no brakes with it! YADADADA- SOLO TAKES A SWING! Fatu blocks the spike and he HEADBUTTS! JC Mateo rushes out here! Fatu HEADBUTTS him, too! But Solo CHOP BLOCKS the legs! The fans boo but JC & Solo mug Fatu! But then here comes JIMMY USO! The fans fire up as #BigJim slides in, dodges Solo, and SUPERKICKS JC! And then he SUPERKICKS Solo! But JC LARIATS Jimmy down! JC HAMMERS Jimmy and Solo has him put Jimmy in the corner.
The fans boo but Solo tells Jimmy that he should’ve chosen Solo’s side, not Jacob’s! But speaking of, Fatu is up! The fans fire up as Fatu BODY CHECKS JC! Then he SUPERKICKS Solo! Solo is in a corner, Fatu fires off on him, HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT! SUPERKICK for JC! HIP ATTACK for Solo! The fans are fired up for the Samoan Werewolf, and he locks eyes with Jimmy. Jimmy came to Fatu’s rescue, Fatu just saved him, so Fatu goes up, up, only for Solo to bail out! No Best Moonsaults here in Grand Rapids, but will Fatu cut Solo down soon enough?
Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight!
The Wise Man warned, or rather threatened, the Mega Star that he should just cut and run, but that’s not how he does things. Knight is ready to fight, but will he survive a battle with Auszilla? Or is a Tsunami about wipe out LA?
Wait, Knight doesn’t enter from the stage! He enters from the crowd! And he POSTS Bron! The fans fire up as Knight evens things out! He TOSSES Bronson out, throws his vest at him, and Bronson snarls. Bronson has Bron stand down, and says, “Tonight, I kill him.” Bronson steps into the ring, the bell sounds, and Knight fires off! The fans fire up as Knight fires hands, but Bronson puts him in the corner. Knight ELBOWS back, Knight fires more hands, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips but Bronson blocks! Bronson whips Knight to a corner, runs up, but Knight dodges! Bronson POSTS himself, and Knight stomps a mudhole in!
The fans rally, the ref counts, and Knight goes corner to corner, but into a fireman’s carry! Knight slips down to sunset flip, but Bronson stays up! Bronson jumps but Knight avoids the hip drop! Then Knight basement BOOTS! The fans fire up and Knight storms up on Bronson. Bronson TOSSES Knight to the apron, but Knight slingshots back in! Bronson catches Knight to a fireman’s carry! Knight flails free and he RAMS Bronson into a corner! But Bronson holds ropes to deny the Jump Neckbreaker! Bronson runs but Knight avoids the senton! The fans fire up as Knight goes up, up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! That’s a Steiner move!
The fans fire up and spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT!” but Bronson bails out! Knight runs to WRECK Bronson with a dropkick! Knight goes back up, springboards, CROSSBODY to the ramp! The fans fire up with Knight and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Bronson has Knight up top. The fans rally as Knight fights back with body shots! Knight ROCKS Bronson, ROCKS him again, and ROCKS him again! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Bronson finally falls and Knight adjusts position. “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BOX JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Bronson survives and Knight is rather stunned while Heyman is relieved. Knight aims, kicks, but Bronson denies the BFT! HEADBUTT, then a fireman’s carry! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Knight survives the “Jagged Edge” DVD but Bronson brings him right up. Bronson reels Knight in and says thumbs down.
Bronson lifts Knight up, but Knight flips the bomb into a DDT! The fans fire up but Bron barks at the apron! Knight DECKS the dog, tells Heyman to get the same, but Bronson runs up! Knight DUMPS Bronson out, builds speed, but BRON SPEARS!!
Winner: LA Knight, by disqualification
The fans boo but Bron handed Knight the win with that one. Bronson stands Knight up so Bron can build speed and SUPER SPEAR!! Grand Rapids is torn but plenty of fans bark. And now Bronson goes up!? TSUNAMI!! Bronson goes up again, the refs hurry out here, but TSUNAMI AGAIN!! The fans want another, so Bron scares the refs off to let Bronson go back up! THIRD TSUNAMI!!! Have Rollins’ rooks just broken Knight into pieces? Is this a message to everyone that no one can stop the vision?
Jacob Fatu speaks.
“Yeah, c’mon on widdit! I just spoke to the man, and you know the man makes everything possible here on SmackDown! So next week, next week on Saturday, me ‘n’ you, Solo! Night of Champions, mano a mano, I’m about to dog walk yo’ ass for the US Championship! Solo, you better get in where you fit in. Cuz if you don’t, then baby, it’s ’bout to be all gas, no breaks with it. Yadadadada mean?” The Samoan Werewolf will get to sink his teeth into Solo, but will he stay golden through it all?
John Cena VS Ron Killings!
The Undisputed WWE Champion was the exact opposite of grateful for R-Truth saving him from Randy Orton at Backlash, and he doubled down when Ron tried to show him the truth at Saturday Night’s Main Event. So, if Cena doesn’t want the Truth, he’ll get someone who knows about ruthless aggression! Will Ron Killings bring an early end to the retirement tour? Or will Cena continue to ruin wrestling for everyone else?
SmackDown returns as Cena makes his entrance. The fans sing “JOHN CENA SUCKS~!” despite him wearing the Detroit Pistons colors. Cena makes Mark Nash give the “proper” introduction: “He is the Greatest of All Time, the Never Seen Seventeen, gracing Grand Rapids with his presence one final time… He is the Last Real Champion, JOHN CENA~!” The fans boo, the bell rings, and Truth stares at Cena while Cena smirks hearing the “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Truth TACKLES Cena! He fires off hands but Cena bails out! So Truth goes out to DECK Cena! “What’s up!?” “WHAT’S UP!” Truth has Cena at the desk and SMACKS him off it!
Truth ROCKS Cena again, and shakes his hand out from hitting so hard. Truth SMACKS Cena off the apron, storms in after him, and whips him to a corner. Cena hits buckles hard and falls to the mat! The fans continue to duel while Truth keeps his eyes on Cena. Truth storms up on Cena while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Truth stands Cena up, whips corner to corner again, and Cena hits buckles hard! Cena sputters, Truth looms over him, and Truth ROCKS Cena! Cena ROCKS Truth! They go back and forth with haymakers, and then Truth dodges to SHOULDER TACKLE! Truth still uses Cena’s own moves against him, and that includes the SPIN-OUT BOMB! Truth raises his hand and Grand Rapids joins in! “You Can’t See Me!” But then Cena bails out so Truth can’t hit him! Truth is annoyed, the fans give thumbs down, but here comes Truth. Cena ELBOWS him down! Cena drags Truth up, POSTS him, and he brings Truth back into the ring.
Cena HEADBUTTS Truth, CHOKES him on the ropes, but stops as the ref counts. Cena stomps away on Truth, then runs to KICK Truth in the back! Cena talks trash, then he runs to SHOULDER TACKLE! Cena takes his time, knowing it is what the fans want. Truth rises up, Cena runs to SHOULDER TACKLE again! Cena watches Truth rise again, gets around him, SPIN-OUT BOMB! And Cena raises his hand, reveling in the cheers and jeers. “You Can’t See Me!” SmackDown returns to single picture for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Then Cena fireman’s carries, but Truth slips free! THESZ PRESS! And fast hands!
The fans fire up and Truth has Cena in a corner. Truth runs to STINGER SPLASH! Cena tumbles out and grabs the belt! Cena doesn’t care about this match anymore, he doesn’t need to take this! Truth says hold up! Truth runs Cena down and fires hands on the ramp! The fans fire up but Cena CLOBBERS Truth with the belt!!
Winner: Ron Killings, by disqualification
Cena wants to get another shot, but wait! PUNK IS HERE! Cena runs away into the ring, and he catches Punk as Punk slides in! The fans boo Cena but he huffs ‘n’ puffs. Cena drags Punk up, but Punk fires hands in return! Punk DECKS Cena, grabs the belt, and he holds it up! The fans cheer, and Punk aims, but Cena LOW BLOWS! Cena has a sinister smile as he grabs the belt. BELT SHOT for Punk!! The fans boo even more, but Cena decides to up the ante! Cena brings out a table! The fans cheer, everyone loves tables! Cena puts the table in the ring, then watches Punk sputter around. Cena sets the table up while the fans rally behind Punk.
Punk stands but Cena has the belt again! BELT SHOT!! Cena drags Punk up, fireman’s carries, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT through the table!! Cena made Punk snap into a Slim Jim, and then he grabs a mic. Cena laughs at Punk, and then sits up on the corner. “Punk… As you lay there in your most uncomfortable…” Cena pretends the mic cut out, taps it, and then says, “Somebody’s afraid of what I’m gonna say.” Cena grins and the fans boo as Cena flips the iconic “Pipebomb” moment on it’s head. “As you lay there in your most uncomfortable, I hope you can listen. I hope you can digest.
“Because before I leave here in six months with that WWE Championship, I gotta get a whole lotta stuff off my chest. First thing’s first, I don’t hate you. I don’t even dislike you. I like you. I like you more than anyone you ever shared a locker room with, that’s for sure. I hate this idea of you. This idea that you’re the Best int he World. You’re not. I’M the Greatest of All Time.” Grand Rapids is a bit torn on that statement, but Cena says Punk is better than Cena at one thing: You’re the best BS artist in the world. Oh no, kiddos~! John Cena just dropped a curse word! That means the show is off the rails! Hey, Stu, shoot this. Hi~! “I’m breaking the forth wall! HAHA!”
Cena then says the truth is, Punk… Cena is jealous of you. Cena is jealous that Punk has conned the fans into believing the myth that Punk is the Best in the World. Oh how they chant for Punk! Which they literally do right now. Hell, the fans even sing for Punk now. But they don’t believe a damn word you say. Because Punk changes his values as much as Cena changes his shirts! Punk is just a loud mouthed opportunist who steps on the necks of those who actually work hard if it gets him ahead. Oh, hey, look, another cameraman! “Hi, Claudio Castagnoli! Hey, Nic Nemeth! Hey, Matt Cardona! How’re you guys doing?”
The fans can’t believe Cena is going this far but Cena is loving it! “He’s heating up! He’s on fire! And there’s nobody back there that’s gonna cut my mic to save your ass, cuz I’m your only friend! Remember who gave you the stage for your pipebomb, pal! And what’ve you done with it since then, huh? You just regurgitated the same five microphone moves of doom. You’re promo potato salad, pal. Hey, you’re no longer the Voice of the Voiceless, you’re a friggin’ millionaire despite yourself. You’re not a punk, you’re a capitalist! And you’re not against TKO, dude, you are Mr. TKO. Cuz they knocked your balls technically off your body.
“Your tweets are strong, but your actions are weak. And in Saudi Arabia, you’re gonna face some loud, loud music when I finally prove to the world that each and every day, day in, day out, no days off for 25 YEARS, I have been the Greatest of All Time!” The fans cheer that a bit more now, to Cena’s surprise. “See, they know. And they know that you were the Best in the World… for seven minutes, 14 years ago. And if after Night of Champions, you’re still delusional enough to believe that you’re the Best in the World, well… I guess it’s a small world after all. You’re welcome, Grand Rapids.” The fans cheer, and Cena lets the world hear it.
Cena tells Punk to bring his A Game to Night of Champions. If Grand Rapids is any indication, the mood is starting to change. Refs finally appear to check on Punk, Cena says no, that’s fine. Punk needs to rest up for his big title match. Get a good shot of this: Best in the World VS Greatest of All Time, for THE most coveted prize in sports entertainment, THE WWE Undisputed Championship! And Cena knows the fans will sing and chant, but he also knows even the idiots are smart enough to see the truth: The Champ is Here. And USA Network, keep the extra two and half minutes. He doesn’t need a bomb to blow the “mother fudging” building.
Oh, and thanks, Punk, for letting Cena rip off your best promo just to make you look even more foolish. Cena finally drops the mic and he raises the belt up again. If the proverbial tables have turned this drastically, is there no saving WWE from losing its north star championship?
My Thoughts:
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25
Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?
Last week’s episode was lacking in ring work but had decent story moments and segments. Starting the build to Slammiversary we can either launch nicely or things can always get worse. Jason Hotch and KC Navarro are the real shining stars of the last few months, so lets hope once they get over this Leon Slater idiot ship, they can push X Division wrestlers with actual talent for pro wrestling and not just flippy charisma vacuums.
Oh and let’s not forget, it is the episode they celebrate the 23rd anniversary of TNA! TWENTY – THREE!! Somewhere PCO hates this.
.@Kelly_WP is back in TNA Wrestling and has a message for TNA Knockouts World Champion @mashaslamovich!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZKKuL pic.twitter.com/tnm4TIuPUz
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Ratings:
- Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers: EY wins via Piledriver – ** 3/4
- Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge: Elegantos win via Rarefied Air – ***
- Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man: HTM wins via Cradle – *
- Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams: Elijah wins via Highwayman’s Farewell – ***
Results:
Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers
Sami knocks them all off the apron before the bell rings, he levels the loser children, finds a chair, attacks EY but EY counters and this is the excuse to use weapons since the bell didn’t ring yet. EY tries to break Sami’s hand on the steps with the chair, but Sami moves, throws EY back in the ring, bell rings and EY hits a Belly to Belly suplex for two. They slug it out, Sami goes for Headbutts, then Sami wants to run the ropes but a loser trips him, distracts long enough for EY to knock him out of the ring and loser children swarm as loser children do. EY does the classic, throw back out for losers to attack while EY grabs and distracts the ref. Sami is selling a few lame attacks from the losers like he got shot. It’s an excessive sell, so it’s honestly a dumb transitional moment.
EY levels Sami, Lariat into Scoop Slam, looks for the Macho Elbow but Sami hits the ropes to crotch EY. Sami Superplex time, but EY bites the face to make Sami drop, EY jumps at him but eats a straight right hand. Cactus Driver, but no, EY tries his Piledriver…they both gouge eyes at the same time, Sami catches an EY charge into a Flatliner as they’re both down…for…reasons? The selling in this match seems…poorly timed and kinda stupid. Hard Irish Whip, EY Flair Flips the corner, levels Sami, Macho Elbow for 2.9! EY threatens to hit the ref, but then goes to mad dog commentary. EY then wants to attack fans…he’s more unhinged than World Elite EY. Sami gives him the old Dick Twist into a Stunner but only for two! Losers try to distract, first one gets taken out, second one uses a chair, EY hits the Piledriver on Sami, EY wins.
I feel like this is gonna continue for a few weeks since it wasn’t a clean win.
Mustafa Ali’s group comes out, and I refuse to say the name because it’s dumb and they’re already fraying at the seams. Ali wants an apology session, Tasha and Hotch apologize to him but Skyler bites back and refuses, even shoved Ali. So Ali challenges him to a “Call to Arms” match. What in the hell is a Call to Arms match?
Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge
ASH does her borderline racist fake karate before Lei stares her down and tags in Heather. Heather avoids Lei, Lei throws a few Tornado Kicks to make a point and Heather tags out. Heather being 4’8″ helps her here. Concierge says “There’s no Karate in wrestling”. ASH, Lei and Masha are in the ring, ASH is trying to decide who she wants to face, but the Concierge google translated it and hands it to ASH, before the face team rocks ASH. Masha lifts up Lei and Lei does the Liu Kang Bicycle Kick, steering more into her Mortal Kombat aesthetic. Senton off the apron from Lei and Masha dives into the pile, the comedy heels are getting leveled. We go to commercial and come back with Lei getting Double Teamed but she spins it into a weird Neckbreaker..but can’t tag out just yet. Lei blocks Heather, Enzuigiri, simultaneous tag, Masha is Yakuza kicks for all and the 2 for 1 Lariat/DDT special. Near fall, but Masha goes for murder, but Heather breaks it, Rocket Launcher/Code Breaker from Elegance but Lei breaks up the pin. ASH tries to intimidate Lei with her fake Karate before throwing her out of the ring. Heather hits Lei with a handful of Glitter and then bounces her face off the post. Masha tries to stop ASH, Kelly’s music distracts Masha, Rarefied Air gives ASH the win.
Santino comes out and GOD DAMMIT no one wants to see Tommy Dreamer fight Mance Warner…that’s a useless thing. Pivot away…no one wants this. Oh no, now we have to listen to Steph talk too. Okay it seems to be a pivot, thankfully. Steph and Mance talk shit, Dreamer says something about Something is gonna happen…and Jake Something comes out. So…I guess we’re gonna build him up for 2 months and then job him out for 6 before he fucks off to his home galaxy or whatever?
.@indi_hartwell has a run in with Tessa Blanchard!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZLikj pic.twitter.com/I6UCCk2fAG
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Really wish Indi just opened with the Billy Butcher classic of, “Oi Cunt!” – but this wasn’t bad.
Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man
I hate… Cardona so much more now. Heel reasons for Cardona…go away heat for Deaner.
JDC wants the Home Town Man to start…and Deaner does his stupid Flip Flop and Fly, Cardona tags in, JDC is eating some offense, Cardona wants the Reboot, JDC powders, Cardona Dives but then Lish and the general numbers catch up to Cardona. Eddie is legal, and now they isolate Cardona with some decent tandem work and isolation. This turns into kind of a schmoz, lots of silly spots, near falls and then Home Town doofus gets the cradle pinfall on Eddie.
Whenever Deaner is involved I can’t be asked to care. The System beats Cardona and Deaner down, but Eddie did eat a pin. Which is embarrassing not even for work reasons, like it’s just sad.
Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams
Elijah and Nic start things off, slow push off, arm wring, top wristlock, simple chain wrestling start. Nic breaks the chain and hits a Dropkick, Elijah runs the ropes and hits a Diving Lariat and starts the Rope Walk. Nic seems far to awake and alert for that move then, I hate how people pull that off too early. Wentz gets tagged in, Nic tags in Maclin who wasn’t looking for a tag, but him and Wentz have a nice clash, Trey tags in, they try to double him, but they pause and look at each other. Maclin asks for a tag, no one tags him so he Chops Ryan to tag him in and throws him in.
The little nod to Maclin and Rascalz history and the fact the faces realize Maclin isn’t a piece of shit. A little MCMG homage tandem attacks on Ryan, Wentz punctuates with the Handspring Knee Lift, Ryan tags out to Trick. Trick and Wentz go back and forth, Rascalz have Trick eating offense, Moose tries to slow things down, both Trick and Moose powder, Rascalz Double Golden Triangle Moonsaults. Trey gets tripped by Nic, Moose hits Lights Out, but there’s no referee so it’s a little chaotic.
Out of the commercial things are controlled kinda and we see a simultaneous tag to Moose and Leon. Leon comes out hot, level Moose with a Leg Lariat, attacks Nic Nemeth, attacks Ryan, and then Moose hits Leon with the Stun Gun. Moose looks to tag in Maclin but Maclin jumps off the apron. Trick takes the tag, keeps control, Trick forcibly tags in Maclin but Ryan tags himself in and pulls Leon to the Champions’ corner, Nic tags in and isolates Leon, with the Kaibas quick tagging and keeping Leon down.
Moose tags in, tries to Suplex Leon about four times but Leon stops it then counters the Suplex. Moose tries to cut him off, but the Champions distract the ref so the ref can’t see Leon tag out. Nic and Moose doubling up and Leon is the bump guy of this last portion of the match. Big Uranage from Moose…Moose looks for Lights Out but Small Package almost ruined things, Body Scissors Cradle, GAME CHANGER! Moose looks to hit a Jacknife Powerbomb but Leon turns it into a DDT. Maclin and Ryan start fighting, Nic Superkicks Maclin, Hendry and Nic tag in, Hendry is a house of fire. Sack of Shits for everyone! Nic, Ryan, there’s a pause when Hendry is face to face with Trick and Trick gets Uppercuts first then Sack of Shit! Standing Ovation on Nic, but Ryan blocks, Kaibas try a tandem attack but Hendry Lariats them both. Elijah tags in and is the maestro of the crowd and chopping Ryan to some fun. Ryan goes for a Polish Hammer but eats the Knee Lift. Signature spam time…
Ryan tries to use the International title but Maclin grabs the title away from Ryan, clocks Nic, Standing Ovation into the Highwayman’s Farewell. Champions lose!
Overall Score: 4/10
Well this was a rough one boys and girls. Sami and EY was just an overbooked shitshow, Lei Ying Lee is unfortunately in a spot where it’s obvious TNA has no clue how to use her, the Elegantos are the New Beautiful People, and I’m not mad at that. But you need to space out your goofball crap. You can’t have Elegance Clique, Home Town Moron and Santino in 3 consecutive segments. And if anyone goes “it was 3 out of 4” that’s doesn’t lessen my point, the beauty of Pro Wrestling being a variety show is…FOR VARIETY! When the lead match feels stupid because of bad pacing, poor selling and overbooking with two losers, it feels like a useless match with idiots, then comedy, followed by more comedy…you see how that’s literally NOT VARIETY.
Figure it out seriously. This was a disappointing episode. If you’re a casual viewer than it’s just chalk for TNA doing cringe and borderline goof crap since they’ve always steered a little more into the carny than other companies. But this show was…where’s Jisoo and Jenny? I feel like I need that gif:
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
4 Corners Podcast: The Fabulous Finals
The NBA and Stanely Cup Finals near their respective conclusions. Dave and Pat break down the action and whether anything...
4 Corners Podcast: Serving Up A Classic
Patrick returns as he and Dave discuss the Stanley Cup Finals, the NBA Finals, Coco Gauff's epic triumph, and a...
4 Corners Podcast: The Rematch & The Rebuild
Dave and PC Tunney preview the NBA Finals and Stanley Cup Finals as the NBA and NHL reach the conclusion...
4 Corners Podcast: Blown Off Course
Dave and Tunney break down the Conference Finals in the NHL and NBA, discuss the NFL going to the Olympics,...
4 Corners Podcast: Bettor Late Than Never?
Dave, Patrick, and Tunney break down the NHL and NBA Playoffs and a pretty stunning decision from the MLB Commissioner's...
Mitchell’s Hyrule Puro-Resu Results & Report! (6/20/25)
It's Electric!
Bandwagon Nerds #293: Father Figures
The Nerds review the latest trailers for Iron Heart and Superman. A Spaceballs sequel is now official and why are...
Bandwagon Nerds #292: Where’s Michael’s Guitar?
The first ever Movie Year Draft highlight's this week's Episode. Plus, the Trailer Park rolls on, as does the search...
Attitude Of Aggression #310- Unidentified History: The Battle of Los Angeles
Unidentified History returns as Dave recaps his visit to Contact in the Desert and the guys do a deep dive...
Bandwagon Nerds #291: Its Pronounced Tuh-Doom
The Nerds cover all the best trailers from Tudum, discuss DC- Marvel crossovers, and get concerned for the future of...
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (6/20/25)
One step closer to the end!
DWI Podcast #479: Ron The Truth Simmons
Don't drink and drive, drink and podcast! Join AJ, DP and PC weekly for their thoughts on RAW, SmackDown and...
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25
Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?
Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (6/19/25)
Rumble, Bad Man, Rumble!
Mitchell’s WWE Evolve Results & Report! (6/18/25)
Can the BOAT Evolve?
Mitchell’s AEW Dynamite Results & Report! (6/18/25)
Viva La AEW!
Babyface Heel Podcast: LOL Charlotte Wins… AGAIN!
Even when she's not wrestling, Charlotte Flair keeps winning! Greg and Patrick breakdown her latest winning comments!
Mitchell’s WWE NXT Results & Report! (6/17/25)
Trick'N Ain't Easy
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (6/16/25)
The last spots are on the line!
Mitchell’s NJPW Dominion Results & Report! (6/15/25)
Who leads the revolution?
