Results
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (4/20/20)
Time for the men to punch their tickets!
Will the Architect’s plan for Raw succeed?
Seth Rollins vows to stomp out doubt from Raw, and that starts by aiming for the top. Will he get the response he wants from Drew McIntyre?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Men’s Money in the Bank Qualifier: Aleister Black VS Austin Theory; Aleister wins and advances to the Men’s MITB match.
- Shayna Baszler VS Indi Hartwell; Baszler wins.
- Ricochet & Cedric Alexander VS Shane Thorne & Brendan Vink; Ricochet & Alexander win.
- Nia Jax VS Kairi Sane; Nia wins.
- Men’s Money in the Bank Qualifier: Apollo Crews VS MVP; Crews wins and advances to the Men’s MITB match.
- Ruby Riott VS Liv Morgan; Morgan wins.
- Men’s Money in the Bank Qualifier: Rey Mysterio VS Buddy Murphy; Mysterio wins and advances to the Men’s MITB match.
- Charlotte Flair VS Kayden Carter; Flair wins.
- Andrade Almas w/ Zelina Vega VS Akira Tozawa; Almas wins.
- Bianca Belair VS Santana Garrett; Belair wins.
- Drew McIntyre VS Angel Garza; McIntyre wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Raw opens with Drew McIntyre!
The WWE World Champion heads to the ring for all the “cool cats and kittens,” and grabs a mic to welcome us to the show. This is truly the highlight of his week, so thank you for joining him. But to business. Last week, McIntyre was ambushed and left laying in this very ring. It wasn’t a surprise, really. McIntyre knows the title represents a lot of things. History, prestige, glory and fame. All great things, but it’s also a bull’s eye on the champion’s back. This title means you are the best of the best, and everyone wants to be in that position. They say it is lonely at the top, but they’re lying. It’s crowded at the top! Everyone wants the title! That brings McIntyre to Seth Rollins. Rollins was the one who stomped McIntyre’s head into the mat. Twice, even.
If you look past the Monday Night Messiah rhetoric, Rollins isn’t that complex. McIntyre is champion, Rollins wants to be champion, but does Rollins deserve it? McIntyre said those who are deserving get their shot. Many say Rollins isn’t deserving. But McIntyre took the week to think about it and came to a conclusion. He could make Rollins jump through hoops, but Rollins is one of the most decorated superstars today. McIntyre has been in the ring with Rollins so he knows firsthand how good Rollins is. If McIntyre wants to become the very best, he must beat the best. So at the Money in the Bank PPV, it WILL be McIntyre VS Rollins for the WWE Championship! McIntyre speaks to Rollins directly here. Don’t worry, Rollins, he won’t insult you. Because then he-
Wait a minute! Here comes Zelina Vega and her boys! McIntyre says he can talk later on, since he has Garza in a match. Zelina says hi, and he says hi back to the “number one thorn in my ass.” She knows she can’t speak for the entire WWE Universe, but her team is “so sick” of these speeches! McIntyre’s problem is he is too focused to MITB, that he is looking past tonight’s match with Angel Garza. And Andrade Almas attacks from behind! That’s why he wasn’t on stage! Almas dropkicks McIntyre into the corner and then stomps away! Almas runs corner to corner, but gets a CLAYMORE!! Zelina shouts for Garza and Theory to after McIntyre, but they’re not budging. McIntyre gives a countdown and… CLAYMORE! He sends Almas flying out of the ring! Vega’s stable regroups and retreats! Will McIntyre be the one feeling tranquilo tonight?
Raw shares the big news about MITB!
As announced on SmackDown just last Friday, Money in the Bank won’t just be with ladders. They’re going to compete inside WWE Titan Towers! The entire corporate headquarters will be the battlegrounds for both the Men’s and Women’s MITB briefcase matches! Who will climb the corporate ladder to success?
Men’s Money in the Bank Qualifier: Aleister Black VS Austin Theory!
We just saw #TheRealSuperstar be intimidated by the Scottish Stud, but he’ll have to refocus if he’s going to go #AllDay. Will Theory prove himself worthy of this massive opportunity? Or will he simply #FadeToBlack?
The bell rings and Aleister circles with Theory. They tie up and Theory goes for the wrist but Aleister gets away quick. The two go again, Theory goes after the wrist again and wrenches. Aleister spins and steps in to trip for a takedown. Theory tries to fight Aleister off but Aleister wrenches and wristlocks. Theory drags Aleister into a facelock but Aleister powers him off. Aleister has the arm again, and has a modified hammerlock. Theory endures, gets to his feet and reaches around to a headlock. Theory shifts to an armlock but Aleister rolls and trips Theory again, only for Theory to kick him away. Aleister catches Theory’s attack to arm-drag him away. Theory throws Aleister away and runs him over with a shoulder!
Zelina praises Theory while he jumps the leg sweep. Theory clubs Aleister on the back then throws forearms. He whips Aleister but Aleister simply rebounds and stands in Theory’s way. Theory runs but is put on the apron. Theory grabs hair but Aleister breaks free, and spins back! Black Mass narrowly misses Theory’s head as he jumps away! Aleister runs and wrecks Theory with a dropkick! Theory shakes the cobwebs out but Zelina heads off commentary. Zelina talks trash at Aleister, bringing up the past from NXT here like she has with McIntyre. Aleister doesn’t play fair? Theory throws Aleister into barriers! THAT isn’t very fair. But Zelina is pleased as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Aleister fights up out of a chinlock. He powers Theory into buckles but Theory elbows back. Aleister walks into a buckle bump, then Theory slingshots in for a somersault shotgun dropkick! Cover, TWO! Theory rains down lefts and rights on Aleister, then drags Aleister up for clubbing forearms. Theory torture racks and throws Aleister into buckles! Then another torture rack, for another throw! Theory wants a third, but Aleister fights back! Aleister lands out of the toss and BOOTS Theory away! Theory comes back to grab hair, but Aleister scoop slams Theory! Zelina grows worried again as Aleister wheelbarrows to the victory roll. TOW, and Theory blocks the strike fest to fireman’s carry. Aleister avoids ATL to roll Theory. Theory elbows out of the waistlock, but swings into a takedown!
Aleister has the arm but Theory stays on his feet! Theory fights the Triangle Hold and dead lifts, to a POWERBOMB! Zelina is excited to see that, but Theory can’t make the cover. A standing count begins, and Theory stands at 6. Theory drags Aleister up before 8, and fisherman lifts. But the bad arm gives out! Aleister goes after it with a standing armlock! Theory knees free and throws Aleister back to buckles. Theory tries again but Aleister cradle counters! TWO, and Aleister dodges to rally with big forearms! Aleister fires off the strike fest, sweeps the legs, and thrusts the KNEE! Zelina is frustrated as Aleister QUEBRADAS! Cover, TWO!! Theory lives and Zelina makes excuses, but Aleister looms close.
Aleister waistlocks and drags Theory up. Theory trips with a leg, but walks into a BOOT! Aleister runs, but Theory dodges the knee to SUPERKICK! Fisherman lift, USHIGOROSHI!! Cover, TOW!! Aleister survives and Zelina has had it with Byron. Theory keeps his focus, and claims he’s taking MITB. He drags Aleister up, fireman’s carries, but Aleister elbows back. Aleister is on the apron, blocks punches to give punches, and then climbs up top. Aleister leaps but Theory gets under! Theory runs into Aleister’s KNEE! Aleister GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridging cover, TWO!! Aleister grits his teeth and lifts Theory with his foot. BLACK- No! Theory dodges and elbows back. But runs into BLACK MASS!! Cover, Aleister wins!!
Winner: Aleister Black, by pinfall (advances to the Men’s MITB Ladder Match)
Zelina tries to convince herself that this is okay, but it certainly isn’t for Theory. Will Aleister make the entire field #FadeToBlack as they battle in Titan Towers?
In-ring interview with Aleister.
Byron Saxton congratulates Aleister on the big win, and he asks: What is the plan for climbing the “corporate ladder” in the most unique MITB match ever? Aleister doesn’t know much about the corporate life or the office. He’d probably have to cover up all of his tattoos. But when he enters the match, each floor will become his opponents’ personal hell.
Shayna Baszler VS Indi Hartwell!
The Queen of Spades quite literally broke Sarah Logan to qualify for the Women’s MITB match. Charly Caruso asks her on stage if that was taking it too far. Too far? Did Shayna break any rules? No. Just Sarah’s arm. Will Shayna break Indi like she did the Kentucky Valkyrie?
The bell rings and Shayna just ROCKS Indi with strikes! And then gut wrench SLAMS her down! Shayna stalks Indi, has the arm, and prepares to stomp! But Indi rolls her up! ONE and Indi hurries away from Shayna! Shayna is furious now, and she runs right at Indi. Indi BOOTS but Shayna laughs it off. Shayna runs in to ROCK and SLAM Indi down! And KNEES her right in the head! Indi is dazed, and Shayna STOMPS the arm!!
Winner: Shayna Baszler, by referee decision
Bully Baszler is more dangerous than ever as she sees redemption towards the Raw Women’s Championship. But will there be any women left on Raw if she keeps going like this?
Wait, what is Shayna doing with that ladder? She drags Indi out of the ring to SWING into the barriers! The ref reprimands Shayna but she isn’t listening. Shayna takes the ladder, sits it up against the steel steps, and then THROWS Indi into them! And then she puts the arm inside the ladder, to CRUSH!! The ladder breaks the arm like a nutcracker! Bully? Shayna is an evil villain. Will anyone be brave enough to stand in her way and the briefcase?
Ricochet & Cedric Alexander VS Shane Thorne & Brendan Vink!
The fast and furious combination returns, looking to get back on track in the Raw Tag Team Division. But can they best The Worst and the Smug?
The teams sort out and Vink starts against Ricochet. Ricochet and Vink tie up and Vink knees low! Vink tosses Ricochet to the corner and tags in Thorne. Thorne stomps Ricochet then throws European Uppercuts. Alexander avoids Thorne’s sucker punch and Thorne turns around into an elbow! Ricochet boots Thorne down then somersault shotgun dropkicks! Tag to Alexander and he knees Thorne low. Ricochet neckbreakers Thorne onto Alexander’s knee for a double breaker! Vink runs in but Alexander baits him into buckles! Enziguri sandwich! Thorne waistlocks but Ricochet tags in. Alexander elbows and suplexes Thorne down for Ricochet’s slingshot senton! Thorne flounders to a corner but Ricochet runs in. Thorne puts Ricochet on the apron and Vink trips him up! Vink CLOBBERS Ricochet then tags in.
Vink drags Ricochet up to throw into the ring. He stalks up behind Ricochet while Thorne talks smack. Vink DECKS Ricochet then brings him up again. He crucifix lifts, but Ricochet huricanranas Vink into buckles! Hot tag to Alexander and Thorne! The Ebony Lion rallies on Thorne and unloads a strike fest! He also dropkicks Vink’s legs out! Alexander has Thorne, props him up on Vink, and hits a one-man MAGIC KILLER! Alexander SUPERKICKS Vink away, but Thorne uppercuts Alexander! Ricochet tags in and Alexander knees Thorne. Alexander hits a tornado DDT! Ricochet hits a standing shooting star! Cover, but Vink breaks it! Vink DECKS Alexander, but Ricochet tilt-o-whirl DDT’s Vink! Ricochet is up, tags in Alexander, and Thorne runs into a kick! Ripcord RECOIL into LUMBAR CHECK! Cover, Alexander and Ricochet win!
Winners: Ricochet & Cedric Alexander, by pinfall
Raw’s tag team scene is about to shift into overdrive! Will anyone be able to keep up with this dynamic duo?
Backstage interview with The Kabuki Warriors!
Asuka and Kairi are still feeling good this week. The Pirate Princess lost her chance at being in the Women’s MITB match, but has a rematch with Nia Jax. Charly addresses the obvious size disadvantage being what lost last week. What makes Kairi think this week will be different? Asuka and Kairi says Charly is being stupid. Tonight, Kairi is ready for Nia! Right? Right! But no one is ready for ASUKA in Titan Towers! Will all this be true after tonight?
Bobby Lashley and Lana make a training video.
The Rocky Mountain Machine is going to show you how easy it is (for him) to flip this tractor tire. Lana says if you’re jealous of her now, wait until you see her Bobby in action. Will Lashley’s warm-up really make him mighty enough for this feat of strength?
Nia Jax VS Kairi Sane!
Raw returns as the Pirate Princess makes her entrance, followed by the Irresistible Force. Will this rematch change things from last week? Or just be a warm-up for Nia?
The bell rings and Kairi circles with Nia. Kairi dodges Nia and says, “Kiss this!” She gets around and climbs up Nia to get a sleeper hold! Nia throws Kairi off fast, but Kairi runs at her. Nia blocks the dropkick and makes it a swing! She TOSSES Kairi to a corner! Asuka is watching backstage as Kairi grabs the ropes. Asuka cheers Kairi on but protests as Nia drags Kairi up by her hair and throws her again! Though, the ref can’t hear that if she’s backstage. Nia stalks Kairi but Kairi throws body shots. Those don’t affect Nia and she throws Kairi again! Kairi grits her teeth but Nia drags her up again. Nia reels Kairi in to clothesline! And again! Kairi crawls to the bottom rope and the apron, but refuses to quit.
Nia runs over but Kairi slides under! Kairi tries but she can’t tip Nia over with the sunset flip! Nia drags Kairi up and holds her up with body hands! For a BUCKLE BOMB! Kairi groans in pain but drags herself back up. Nia runs in, but Kairi dodges! Nia just stops herself but Kairi goes after the leg! Kairi is after the surgically repaired knees! But Nia drags her up for a military press! The knee gives out and Kairi is right on it again! Asuka likes what she sees as Kairi throws elbow after elbow on Nia’s head! Nia pushes Kairi away but Kairi comes back for more. Kairi roars as she throws even more elbows! The ref counts as Kairi grabs hair, but she BACK HANDS Nia down! Kairi roars more as she runs in, for the SLIDING D!
Nia is down and Kairi climbs up! Kairi weighs anchor, for the InSANE- No! She has to roll and bail out as Nia evades. Nia is up, scoops Kairi, and pops her up for the SAMOAN DROP! Cover, Nia wins!
Winner: Nia Jax, by pinfall
Two times in a row, Nia A-Nia-Lates Kairi. But has Kairi done damage enough to give Asuka and the other women a chance against Nia in the Women’s MITB match?
Raw has a message from Seth Rollins.
“You’re a brave man, Drew McIntyre. A fighting champion. I admire that. I respect that.” There aren’t many who know what it’s like to walk in McIntyre’s shoes. But Rollins does. They both won a title off Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania. Not many know what it is like to do that. But Rollins does. Rollins and McIntyre have a lot in common, actually. They command the respect of their peers. They have a deep, deep love and passion for this industry. Rollins accepts the challenge for the WWE World Championship. But not out disdain, because this isn’t personal. This is out of necessity. Because now, more than ever, the WWE Universe needs a leader. As much as Rollins and McIntyre have in common, the parallels stop with titles. Rollins is a proven leader, and McIntyre is not.
Rollins says he is the one who will sacrifice for the greater good! He is the one who will make the hard decisions! He will be the one the light in the darkness. At MITB, Rollins will take the title. And not because he wants to, but because he has to. What will McIntyre need to do to prevent that?
The Viking Raiders have a fight song now.
Erik and Ivar road around while coming up with verses back and forth. “Viking Raiders!” The raid is here and here to stay. They’re men with beards who all should fear. They worship Thor and knock them to the floor! Will the Viking Raiders sing their praises all the way to the Raw Tag Team Championships?
Men’s Money in the Bank Qualifier: Apollo Crews VS MVP!
The rising star returned to Raw but would #FadeToBlack against Aleister. Montel Vontavius Porter returned to the WWE ring with the Royal Rumble. But who takes the second spot Raw has to give in the Men’s MITB?
Before the MVP grabs a mic to say, “In my storied career, I have seen a lot of WWE superstars literally rise and fall in pursuit of that briefcase.” Because inside is a contract that entitles the bearer a shot at the world title anywhere, anytime. We’ve seen the dangerous Aleister Black punch his ticket. Later, we will see the absolute legend in Rey Mysterio compete for his. But right now is MVP’s turn. In his way is the extremely talented Apollo Crews, the most gifted athlete on Raw. But he is outmatched. When the WWE wanted to make this year’s MITB match the most unique, they called the most unique competitor. MVP is no stranger to wearing suits, going to the corporate headquarters to sit in boardrooms and sign big money deals. They called MVP.
“No hard feelings, Aleister Black. Er, no, uh, Apollo Crews. That guy.” But MVP called his agent to book a private jet already to go to Stamford. MVP vows to be in MITB. Money talks, and what it says is that MVP is the future. But Apollo makes his entrance to interrupt. Will MVP put his money where his mouth is?
The bell rings and Crews stares down with MVP. MVP throws hands but Crews counter punches! Crews whips but MVP holds ropes. Crews handsprings through to dropkick MVP down, and down again! MVP gets to the apron and calls for a timeout. Nope! Crews blasts MVP off the apron! Crews slingshots but MVP sweeps the legs! MVP’s experience has the edge as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns as MVP has Crews in a camel clutch. Crews endures but MVP says he can just make it easier on himself and give up. Crews refuses and powers up instead! He rams MVP into buckles! Crews is free and he runs back in, but into MVP’s LARIAT! Cover, TWO! MVP drags Crews back into the camel clutch, and throws clubbing crossface forearms! MVP drops names like Mysterio and Kane as past opponents. He brings Crews up for the Play Maker, but Crews powers out to a SPINE BUSTER! MVP writhes and flounders to a corner while Crews catches his breath. MVP stands in the corner but Apollo grits his teeth as he runs in. Crews hits a big splash then rains down hands! The ref counts and Crews backs up, to SUPERKICK! Crews runs to BOOT! Then keeps going to LARIAT back!
Crews isn’t done there, he scoops MVP for a BIG powerslam! Cover, TWO! Crews keeps his cool and brings MVP up. He scoops and slams MVP down then heads up top. Crews leaps, but the frog splash gets knees! MVP drags Crews into position, PLAY MAKER! Cover, TWO!! Crews survives and MVP can’t believe it! MVP argues the count but two is two. MVP looms over Crews as he makes it rain. He runs but gets an enziguri! Crews military presses and tosses MVP, for the standing moonsault! And shooting star! Crews wants MVP to stand up again and MVP does. Crews gets him for the CREWS MISSLE!! Cover, Crews wins!!
Winner: Apollo Crews, by pinfall (advances to the Men’s MITB match)
An incredible comeback for Crews! He shouts, “This is MY time!” But will that be the case when fighting for the case?
Backstage interview with Ruby Riott.
Charly brings up the Riott Squad, the old trio of Ruby, Sarah Logan, and Liv Morgan. Ruby and Liv are set to compete in a matter of moments, but how did the group go from so close to so divided? Ruby sets it straight: it was never really a squad to her. She had to have double surgery because she was carrying Sarah and Liv on her back! Ruby made them look strong! And now look. Sarah’s arm is broken, and Liv will be lucky if Ruby doesn’t break both arms. Liv still suffers from the delusion that she’s all grown up. But Ruby is going to show her just how lonely and small and weak Liv is without her.
Ruby Riott VS Liv Morgan!
Raw returns as Liv makes her entrance first, then followed by Ruby. Will the former Juvenile Delinquent prove Ruby wrong by winning with her own strength?
The bell rings and the two go right at each other. Liv powers Ruby to a corner but backs off at the ref’s count. Ruby sucker punches Liv! Then clubs her on the back. Ruby stomps Liv down to a corner then kicks her in the ribs! Liv sputters but Ruby bounces her off the mat! Ruby drags Liv up but Liv throws body shots. Ruby clubs Liv back down then drags her back up. Liv throws more haymakers and then kicks low to BOOT! Liv LARIATS Ruby on the rebound, and again! Then enziguris Ruby to a corner! Liv runs in but Ruby dodges. Liv jumps, jumps and dropkicks! Cover, TWO! Liv keeps her cool as she clubs and pushes Ruby around now. She drags Ruby up to suplex but Ruby blocks. Ruby stomps feet to then hang Liv out to dry. And BOOT her down! Cover, TWO!
Ruby grins as she sits Liv up for a cravat. She cranks on the neck but Liv endures. Ruby leans on Liv but Liv refuses to give up. Liv elbows free but Ruby bounces her off the mat again. Ruby drags Liv up and has her against the ropes to club away. The ref counts but Ruby lets up to run. But Liv ROCKS Ruby back with a forearm! Liv runs, but Ruby gives that forearm back! Ruby runs, Liv reels her in but Ruby elbows out hard! And SUPERKICKS! Ruby slaps Liv around and wants the “puppy” to beg. Ruby runs, but into the REBOUND SHOT! Cover, Liv wins!!
Winner: Liv Morgan, by pinfall
Ruby just got got, and her own ego is to blame! Will she ever get over letting Liv get the better of her?
Lashley and Lana return.
The warm-up is done, now it is time to prove himself. But Lana says he isn’t just warm, he’s hot. Lashley says it takes an elite athlete to properly flip a tire. He gets it up and over! Lana is pleased, but Lashley says the real challenge is the extra thick tire. Will he be able to pump up and power that rubber beast around?
Men’s Money in the Bank Qualifier: Rey Mysterio VS Buddy Murphy!
It is time to fill Raw’s last spot in the historic “corporate ladder” match! The King of Lucha Libre has been a victim of the cash-in, but he wants to be on the other end for once in his career. Will he get past Rollins’ returning disciple? Or will Murphy’s Law take effect?
The bell rings and Murphy circles with Mysterio. They approach and tie up, and Murphy gets a headlock takeover. Mysterio headscissors but Murphy pops out, only for roles to reverse. Murphy headscissors but Mysterio pops out. Murphy sweeps legs, covers, ONE! Mysterio sweeps legs, covers, ONE! Both men stand off, and circle again. Murphy says, “Not bad for an old man.” Mysterio brushes that one off, and ties up with Murphy again. Murphy has the arm and wrenches, then yanks on the arm to go after the shoulder. Mysterio endures though he drops to his knees. Murphy grinds Mysterio down then brings him up to wrench and whip. Mysterio dodges, dodges and tilt-o-whirls to headscissor! Dial it up, but the call misses! Mysterio tells Murphy he was that close.
The two circle, Murphy swings a boot but Mysterio uses the ropes for defense. Murphy keeps going after him with hammering hands but the ref backs him off. Mysterio bails out and says his hand got messed up. Murphy goes out and throws Mysterio into barriers! And then into the timekeeper’s area! Murphy shows no mercy as he puts Mysterio back in. Cover, ONE, but Murphy goes after those bad hands! Murphy wrenches and wrings the arm out! Cover, ONE! Mysterio toughs it out but Murphy drags him up. Murphy goes after the bad hand with a wristlock. Mysterio reaches but has to roll and handspring to then flip with the ropes. He arm-drags Murphy out then dropkicks him down! Mysterio builds speed but Murphy is ready for the slide! Murphy wheelbarrows Mysterio but Mysterio elbows free!
Mysterio runs into a BOOT! He drops to the ramp as the ring count begins. Murphy STOMPS Mysterio’s bad hand on the ramp! Mysterio shouts in pain as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns as Murphy SLAMS the bad hand on steel steps! Mysterio falls against barriers while he clutches the fingers. Murphy drags Mysterio up to SLAM the hand again! The ring count passes 5 but Murphy refreshes it. Murphy goes up the steps and drags Mysterio to the apron. Mysterio gets away but Murphy watches from in the ring. Murphy goes out and drags Mysterio back up to the corner! Murphy SLAMS the hand on the post, then stands on it! The ref counts but Murphy lets up at 3. Mysterio trips Murphy! Murphy hits buckles and then the floor! Mysterio gets space, runs to the steps, and LEAPS for a huricanrana! Murphy crashes down on the ramp! Mysterio refreshes the count and fetches Murphy into the ring. Mysterio’s hand slows him down, and Murphy is on him. But Mysterio kicks Murphy away!
Murphy wobbles back into another enziguri! Mysterio springboards for the seated senton! Then springboards again for a crossbody! Mysterio KICKS at Murphy’s leg then whips. Murphy reverses and slaps the bad hand! But Mysterio dropkick the leg out to dial it up! But Murphy catches him, only for Mysterio to tilt-o-whirl DDT! Cover, TWO! Murphy lives but both he and Mysterio are down. Murphy goes to ropes but Mysterio stands up. Mysterio joins Murphy on the apron and drags him up. Mysterio throws forearms but Murphy BOOTS back! Murphy stalks up behind Mysterio, fireman’s carries him, but Mysterio fights free! And dropkicks Murphy down! Murphy hits barriers and Mysterio builds speed! Mysterio slides, headscissors and sends Murphy hard into barriers again!
The ring count climbs while both men are down and out. Mysterio sits up first and finally fixes his fingers. He puts Murphy back in the ring then takes aim from up top. Mysterio leaps and crossbodies, but Murphy rolls through! Murphy powers Mysterio up, for an USHIGOROSHI! KNEE TRIGGER! BRAIN BUSTER! Cover, TWO!? Mysterio survives because as he said last week, he wants this more! Mysterio slowly rolls to the ropes but Murphy stands up. Murphy drags Mysterio back to the middle of the ring, then heads for a corner. But Mysterio anchors Murphy’s foot. Murphy stomps Mysterio until he lets go, then finishes his walk to the corner. Murphy climbs up top but Mysterio stops him with haymakers!
Mysterio climbs to join Murphy, and clubs away on Murphy’s back. Murphy resists the superplex and throws body shots. Murphy clubs Mysterio back then sunset flips. Mysterio blocks the bomb, so Murphy tucks him in. Murphy wants to kick but Mysterio mule kicks him first! Mysterio turns himself around to leap, for a DESTROYER!! Murphy flounders onto ropes! Dial it up, 6 1 9!! Mysterio climbs up, leaps, FROG SPLASH! Cover, Mysterio wins!
Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall (advances to the Men’s MITB match)
The Raw half of the field is complete! The lucha legend leaves Murphy outside looking in, but will we be looking at Mysterio’s first run as Mr. Money in the Bank?
Backstage interview with Zelina Vega and Angel Garza.
El Latino es en la casa, but Raw didn’t really open how Vega’s team hoped. How does Charly figure that? Well, Almas’s sneak attack turned into two Claymore kick. Yes, yes, how “noble” for McIntyre to attack when Almas couldn’t stand. How does Charly know this isn’t going to Vega’s plan? How does anyone know Garza won’t teach McIntyre about nobility? And how do we know McIntyre will even make it to MITB to face Rollins? Because it’d be a shame if he didn’t. Garza says that once he wins tonight, he would love if Charly asked how it felt to beat a champion. See you later tonight.
Charlotte Flair VS Kayden Carter!
The Queen may reign over the NXT Women’s Division, but she returns to Raw to remind us why! Will she give NXT’s fiery Filipina that promised lesson in humility?
The bell rings and Charlotte stretches the ropes. KC has her dukes up, but that does nothing against Charlotte’s BOOT! Charlotte brings KC up and CHOPS her back down! That’s “lesson number one: always, always do your homework.” Charlotte toys with KC as she kicks her to ropes. Charlotte goes for another boot but KC dodges to sweep the legs! And mule kick! Cover, ONE, and Charlotte gets up fast. KC swings around to crucifix DRIVER! Cover, TWO, into a Rings of Saturn! KC tries to bring the arms back but Charlotte powers up. Charlotte is almost up but KC hooks a leg for an iron octopus! She brings Charlotte back down, but Charlotte still powers up! Charlotte stands, and gets to ropes, to then elbow away! And HOTSHOT KC off ropes!
KC wobbles about, but finds Charlotte. Charlotte dodges the kick to SPEAR KC down! Charlotte dusts off her hands, then grabs a leg. She puts on the Figure Four! And then toys with KC before putting in the Figure EIGHT! KC taps, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
Charlotte holds on until she’s satisfied, and the lesson is over. The Queen has called out both the Head Baddie in Charge and the Evil Genius #1 contender. Will each of them “do their homework” before going up against the champion?
Lashley attempts the lift challenge.
450 pounds of tire. If anyone can move it, it’s him. He gets up under and begins, but only gets it up a few inches. Lashley tries again, but still can’t. He takes his frustration out on the tire, then fires himself up. Round three, and Lashley does it! He lifts the monster tire! And Lana gushes all over him. “That’s the kind of power everyone in the WWE locker room needs to fear.” Will the Rocky Mountain Machine move on from tires to superstars as MITB looms closer?
Andrade Almas w/ Zelina Vega VS ???
El Idolo’s ambush failed to fall McIntyre, but he looks to rebound from that in the ring. Will the WWE United States Champion take his frustrations out on his opponent? Or will he falter even harder?
Raw returns and Almas’ opponent is Akira Tozawa! The Stamina Monster is coming off red hot from his Interim NXT Cruiserweight Championship Tournament win, but he has beef with Vega’s team. Will Tozawa keep the roll going with some retribution?
The bell rings and Tozawa circles with Almas. They tie up, Tozawa throws hands all over but Tozawa gives them back. Tozawa rocks Tozawa but Tozawa hits the spinning roundhouse! Vega is concerned and the SHINING WIZARD hits! Cover, ONE! Tozawa stomps Almas down then has him against ropes. Tozawa throws forearms then whips. Almas reverses but Tozawa comes back to huricanrana! Almas bails out and Tozawa builds speed, to BOOT Almas down! Tozawa slingshots but Almas moves. But Tozawa just adjusts, to CANNONBALL! Vega is worried as Tozawa gets up. Tozawa drags Almas up and into the ring then heads up top. Almas stands, but Tozawa missile dropkicks him down! Cover, TWO! Almas bails out and regroups with Vega.
Vega says Almas is fine, but then she stays in Tozawa’s way. Almas sucker punches and then CHOPS Tozawa! “I am the champion!” Almas puts Tozawa in the ring and Vega wants to send a message to McIntyre. So Almas wrenches and shoulder breakers, then back suplexes. Tozawa lands on his feet, dodges, tilt-o-whirls and puts on the Iron Octopus! Almas reaches but Tozawa cranks harder! Almas powers up again, but Tozawa just cranks harder! Tozawa bends the hand but Almas uses one more push to get the ropebreak! Tozawa lets go, and Almas ELBOWS him down hard! Almas drags Tozawa up and fireman’s carries, but Tozawa slips out. Tozawa back kicks and both men fall! Tozawa gets up, spins, slides under, and fakes Almas out to JAB! Almas is rocked, but he dropkicks back! Almas drags Tozawa in, shouts out Eddie, but gets a cradle counter! TWO!!
Almas pops Tozawa up, Tozawa huricanranas again, cover, TOW! Wheelbarrow takedown, TWO!! SUPERKICK!! Tozawa has Almas down in the drop zone and heads up top! Vega panics as Tozawa stands, but Almas trips him up! Almas drags Tozawa out and hammerlocks, for the DRAPING LA SOMBRA!! Cover, Almas wins!
Winner: Andrade Almas, by pinfall
That was much more than either Almas or Vega expected, but it still went as they expected. Almas wins here, but will a contender close in on that WWE US Championship?
But speaking of champions, the Street Profits are here! They and their Raw Tag Team Championships party on the announce desk, and are in action after the break!
Bianca Belair VS Santana Garrett!
The strongest, fastest, toughest and roughest is back in action, looking to prove she wasn’t just a big fish in a small pond. Will she make big waves against the Wonder Woman of Wrestling?
The bell rings as the Profits are fired up for Bianca. She and Santana circle and tie up. Bianca powers Santana to a corner but the ref counts. Bianca lets up and goes again with Santana. They tie up, Bianca SLAMS Santana down then claps at her. Santana grabs a leg but Bianca blocks the take down. Bianca gut wrenches Santana up to the Canadian rack but Santana fights free. Santana pie faces and Bianca is not having it. Bianca SHOVES Santana down then claps back. Santana gets up, waistlocks but Bianca standing switches for a slam! Santana stands but gets thrown down again! Bianca keeps on Santana and ducks the elbow, to slam Santana again! Bianca waits for Santana to get up before she stomps away in the corner.
The ref counts and Bianca lets up, to hip toss Santana across the way! Santana dodges and throws big haymakers! Santana whips but Bianca reverses. Bianca gets under as Santana goes up and over. Bianca blocks the arm-drag, whips Santana away then runs her over with a shoulder! Things speed up and Bianca handsprings over Santana! Bianca dares Santana to bring it, and then she hurdles over. She side steps and follows to run Santana over again! The Profits are so hyped for Bianca right now as she brings Santana back up. Bianca suplexes Santana and holds her up for squats! Then drops her down! Bianca runs, and SPLASHES! Then kips up to blow a kiss to the fans at home. Bianca tells Santana to kiss this, but Santana goes to the apron. Santana throws hands but Bianca ROCKS her back!
Bianca drags Santana up but Santana hotshots! Santana BOOTS Bianca back! Santana climbs up top and leaps, crossbody! Cover, ONE! Santana SUPERKICKS Bianca then handsprings, into a BOOT! Bianca drags Santana up to lift, and alley-oop onto buckles! Torture rack, KISS OF DEATH! Cover, Bianca wins!
Winner: Bianca Belair, by pinfall
The EST is many things, but her boys are the wildest commentary team. Will this trio soon stand atop all of Raw together?
Drew McIntyre VS Angel Garza!
Raw begins and ends with the WWE World Champion! But it also begins and ends with Vega’s team being ringside. Will this week look a lot like last week? And will that be good or bad for the Latino Lothario?
The bell rings and Theory distracts McIntyre right away! Garza rushes McIntyre but McIntyre hits back. McIntyre CHOPS and CHOPS and chop blocks Garza! That’s in return for last week! McIntyre KICKS the leg out, then mockingly asks how the leg feels. McIntyre CHOPS again but Garza elbows back. Garza can’t get away before McIntyre THROWS him overhead! Garza bails out and regroups with Vega’s team, but McIntyre is in pursuit. McIntyre CLUBS Garza then snake eyes him off barriers. McIntyre CHOPS Garza while mocking Theory’s #AllDay. He puts Garza in, but Almas tries to ambush again. McIntyre blocks the post attack, and catches Garza’s DIVE! McIntyre throws Garza at the steel steps but Garza hops over. Garza runs back, into a HEADBUTT!
McIntyre glares at Almas but Vega stands in the way. Theory lurks up behind but McIntyre DECKS him! Garza leaps off the steps to dropkick! McIntyre hits the barrier, then Garza RAMS him into a post! And then another! The ring count passes 7! McIntyre gets in but Garza follows. Garza is up top and leaps, to missile dropkick! Cover, ONE! Garza goes after McIntyre’s leg and clubs away. He cranks on the knee but McIntyre resists the full turn. Garza hammers the leg more but McIntyre kicks free with the other leg. McIntyre shoves Garza but Garza kicks him back. McIntyre CLOBBERS Garza! Then McIntyre whips to elbow Garza down! Garza dodges the clothesline but not the BOOT! McIntyre glares at Vega as he heads to the corner. He climbs up top, and leaps to ax handle! And kip up!
McIntyre says this is it. He glares at Garza as he dares him to get up. Garza slowly rises, the countdown begins, but Garza runs away! McIntyre grabs Garza but off come the pants! Seems that trick isn’t just for taunting his opponent! But McIntyre builds speed to FLY!! He wipes out Vega’s stable, and then says, “I can do it all!” McIntyre puts Garza in the ring then throws Almas over barriers! And CLAYMORES Theory for good measure! Vega is stunned as McIntyre stalks Garza in the ring. McIntyre elbows Garza then drags him up. INVERTED ALABAMA! But Garza wheelbarrows and victory rolls through!! TWO, and both men run, CLAYMORE!! Cover, McIntyre wins!!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
And to punctuate that win, he busted Garza open! McIntyre raises the WWE World Championship, his confidence not at all wavering. In fact, he wants to add on! Garza flounders up and into ANOTHER CLAYMORE! “Keep bringing them in, keep lining them up. I’ll keep Claymore-ing them down.” Speaking of, Theory flounders into the ring. And he gets a CLAYMORE! McIntyre copies tranquilo just to make a point. But will he truly make a statement when he goes 1v1 with The Architect at Money in the Bank?
My Thoughts:
A really good episode for Raw, even after #BlackWednesday just last week. There are now rumors that some names get to come back, one name being Sarah Logan. They did mention her because of the overlap she plays in both Shayna Baszler’s story and in the Ruby VS Liv story. And with her husband, Erik (Ray Rowe) still employed, you would hope she is brought back. Speaking of her husband, I do NOT understand the cheerful fight song segment for The Viking Raiders. Obviously they’re Faces, but they shouldn’t be gleeful Faces. They should’ve been singing a much tougher song, at least. As for Shayna, that was some incredible brutality, and that is great for Shayna. She needs to be very dangerous in the MITB Titan Towers match, win or lose, to stay on course.
Liv getting a win over Ruby is great, but it’s hard to be sure where the Riott Squad break-up goes from here. Bringing Sarah back would also be a good move in order to keep this story fresh. Lashley’s tire lifting segment was… filler. I thought there was going to be more tension with him and Lana, but they completely let off on it. Hopefully they get back on that next week, especially with Rusev among the superstars cut. Bianca had a good match against Santana Garrett, but wow were the Profits hyperactive. And Charlotte of course gets a win before she makes her momentous return to NXT. I’m thinking the Charlotte VS Mia Yim rematch is going to be an incredible match to officially bring Charlotte back to NXT, but Charlotte will still win to stay strong towards facing Io Shirai.
Kairi Sane losing to Nia again reinforces my concerns that Kairi is leaving. I was hoping Asuka ambush Nia with mist, but it seems Nia still needs momentum after her return. Though, it seems she isn’t a Face with how she toyed with Kairi, so it looks like Raw is sending in three Heels for the Women’s MITB. This is an interesting move, because it parallels Raw’s three Faces for the Men’s. Aleister was of course winning over Austin Theory, and it just feels right for Mysterio to go in over Murphy. It’s great for Apollo to win and be in, but unless he turns, he’s also a Face. Will SmackDown be the one sending outright Heels in the last two spots? Gulak VS Corbin is happening this Friday, but I felt Elias was going to cost Corbin. Is Gulak the one turning?
Raw being sandwiched by McIntyre was good stuff. I’m not sure if he should’ve been so cheerful in the beginning given the ambush last week. But I suppose as top Face, starting happy is fine. He sure seems to enjoy kicking Vega’s team around. Vega’s team is also on a losing record this week, with Theory losing, but Almas winning against Tozawa, then Garza losing in the main event. But don’t shout “Buried!” just yet. McIntyre mopped the floor with them in the main event last week, so nothing changed there. This time McIntyre had to stand tall going into his match against Rollins. That match will great, however and wherever they do it. As for Vega’s team, they’ll rebound to a degree. They might even cost McIntyre the title to stay in the main event scene.
My Score: 8.3/10
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ACKNOWLEDGE the contract signing!
With the World Heavyweight Championship match set for Backlash, all that’s left is for Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu to sign the contract!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Finn Balor VS JD McDonagh; JD wins.
- PENTA & Je’Von Evans VS Rusev & Ethan Page; Rusev & Ethan win.
- Austin Theory w/ The Vision VS Joe Hendry; Hendry wins, by disqualification.
- The Ruler’s Open Challenge: Oba Femi VS ???
- Six Man Tag: Los Americanos VS Los Hermanos Americanos; win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Roman Reigns arrives backstage.
And Adam Pearce catches him right as he exits the car. The Raw General Manager knows Roman is heated from last week but they need to discuss things first. Roman says first off, no, he wants to know where Jacob Fatu is at. And second, don’t you hear the fans already cheering for him? Hit his music! Pearce tries to calm Roman down but has to shout at him first. Jacob Fatu is not here… yet. But Seth Rollins is! Architect and Tribal Chief stare down, and Rollins says Roman is in his way. Roman steps aside, and Rollins’ song hits first! The fans in Omaha, Nebraska sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as Rollins heads to the ring.
But then BRON BREAKKER CLOBBERS ROLLINS! Bron HAMMERS away on Rollins, drags him around, and throws hockey scrum body shots! Bron CLOBBERS Rollins again, then stands him back up so he can gorilla press him! Bron drops Rollins on barriers! Rollins falls back, sputters, but security and producers hurry out here. Bron THROWS security around! Then he drags Rollins up to RAM him into steel steps! Adam Pearce shouts at Bron but Bron drags Rollins into the ring! The refs get Bron to back off, producers check on Rollins, but then Bron breaks through to slip into the ring! SPEAR!!
Bron looms over Rollins while the fans bark. Rollins coughs and sputters while Bron tells him this is just a taste. Bron takes his leave, the damage done. But will he do even worse when the match is on for Backlash?
Judgment Day is in the clubhouse.
Liv Morgan says that Stephanie Vaquer is injured, no worrying about her anymore. But now to talk about the not so good news. Like what the hell was Finn doing in here last week?! Roxie doesn’t know, he must be delusional. Liv says she’s not worried about Finn, JD McDonagh finishes this tonight. Liv is worried about Roxie. Why did Finn think it was okay to talk to Roxie? Why didn’t Roxie tell them about it? Why did Liv have to watch it through Netflix to learn about what’s going on? Roxie says she didn’t mention it because she made it clear to Finn. She told him to get out and never come back. But Liv’s right, Roxie should’ve said something.
But don’t worry! Roxie’s loyal to Judgment Day, they know that. Yes, Liv is glad to hear that, because she believes in Roxie. Roxie & Raquel are going to be the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, they just can’t let anything get between the family. Promise Liv that you won’t keep secrets, Roxie. Roxie promises. Promises what…? That she will never keep any secrets from Judgment Day. Good. So they ready? Liv, Dom & JD head out, and Raquel pats Roxie on the head. But will things be (not) fine for Judgment Day?
Finn Balor VS JD McDonagh w/ Dominik Mysterio!
Raw returns as The Irish Ace makes his entrance, Dirty Dom by his side. The bell rings, the two tie up, and JD wrenches to wristlock. JD YANKS the arm, but the fans taunt him as “BOBBLEHEAD! BOBBLEHEAD!” Finn rolls, wrenches, but JD wrangles Finn back down. JD puts on the pressure but Finn kips up to wrench, slip through, and headlock. JD powers up but can’t power out as Finn holds on tight! JD endures, rolls to a cover, ONE! JD headscissors, Finn kips free, and Finn arm-drags! Finn grinds JD with the armlock, but JD fights up. JD rolls, powers Finn to ropes, but the ref counts.
JD backs off slowly, but Dom trips Finn up! The fans boo Dom but then JD RAMS Finn! Dom flexes and soaks up the heat while JD RAMS Finn more. JD lets off so he can soak up heat, then he stalks Finn to another corner. JD CHOPS, then he whips corner to corner. Finn goes up and over to CHOP! And CHOP! And CHOP! Finn warns Dom, but JD turns things around. Finn dodges JD to CHOP him back! Cover, TWO! Finn drags JD up, brings him around, and gives some Latino Heat! JD wrenches free but Finn ducks JD’s lariat to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Cover, TWO! Finn keeps his eyes on Dom, then goes back to JD.
JD drop toeholds Finn, then runs to drop the leg, brother! Cover, TWO! Finn goes to ropes but JD KICKS his leg! JD KICKS the leg again, then puts the leg on ropes. JD drops a KNEE on the knee! Finn writhes, the fans boo, but Dom applauds as JD YANKS the bad leg. GROUND DRAGON SCREW! JD then drops an ELBOW on the leg, then clamps on a toehold. Finn endures, kicks JD in the back, and the fans rally as both men stand. JD storms up on Finn, whips, but Finn reverses. JD sunset flips, Finn rolls through and basement DROPKICKS! JD goes to ropes, Finn LARIATS him up and out! The fans fire up as Finn builds speed, but Dom trips him up again!
The fans boo as Finn shouts at Dom, but JD CLOBBERS Finn! Finn tumbles out of the ring, but here comes Roxie! The fans boo Judgment Day as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Finn fights up in the headlock. Finn fires body shots, and now the rest of Judgment Day hurries out here. JD CLUBS Finn, whips him, but Finn goes up and- NO, JD catches Finn on the over, but Finn holds onto the ropes! JD pries Finn free, but Finn slips down to dragon sleeper! EYE OF THE HURRICANE! The fans cheer Finn on, but he’s all alone ringside now that it is 5v1! JD and Finn rise up, but Finn ROCKS JD! And ROCKS him again! And again, and again! Finn whips and BACKDROPS JD! JD flounders, Finn trips him to DOUBLE STOMP! The fans cheer Finn as he flexes!
Finn drags JD up, whips him to ropes, but JD reverses. Finn comes back to SLINGBLADE! The fans cheer as Finn aims from a corner. But Dom gets on the apron! Finn DECKS Dom, JD rolls Finn, TWO! JD swings, Finn dodges and CHOPS! Finn runs, but into the SPANISH FLY! Cover, TWO!! Finn survives but just barely! Finn goes to the apron while the fans rally harder and harder. JD storms over, but Finn RAMS into him! Then GAMANGIRIS! Finn goes up, up, but Raquel distracts the ref! Dom shakes the ropes, and Finn falls! The ref realizes something is wrong, so she EJECTS Dom! The fans cheer as things are a bit more even now.
Liv & Dom are upset but JD still drags Finn to a drop zone. JD goes up, up, and MOONSAULTS, but onto knees! Cover, TWO! Finn hurries to SLINGBLADE JD again! The fans rally for Finn while the ladies of Judgment Day coach JD. Liv gets on the apron, but the ref tells her to back off. Liv sneaks something to Roxie! The bell hammer!? Finn SHOTGUNS JD! Roxie has the bell hammer to CRACK Finn!! The fans boo but JD HEADBUTTS Finn! JD falls on the cover, JD wins!
Winner: JD McDonagh, by pinfall
Roxie proves her loyalties by doing Liv’s dirty work, and JD finally gets a win over his old mentor. Is there no hope for Finn against this many enemies?
Backstage interview with Seth Rollins.
Jackie Redmond apologizes to The Architect for bothering him, as he is clearly in pain after that vicious assault from Bron Breakker. But what does this mean for Backlash. Will Rollins be okay? Rollins says Backlash is in five days, he’ll be fine. Rollins told “the kid” last week, that if you take your shot, you better be able to finish the job. Rollins ain’t dead yet. Rollins storms off, will he be able to game plan a way to get around Bron’s speed, strength, and ruthless aggression?
The Vision regroups backstage.
Bron Breakker says he couldn’t let Rollins go to the ring and get on the mic to bore us all to death. He can’t stand listening to that guy! He’s like a duck! “Quack, quack! I’m the best wrestler in the world! Quack!” Austin Theory joins in, “Lemme sing my song! Quack quack!” Paul Heyman walks in and says, “Is Seth Rollins still breathing?” Bron says yes, he is. Logan Paul says one guy who won’t be is Joe Hendry! Logan’s gonna beat him to a pulp! Logan swears to God, let him get his hands on Hendry and he’ll hospitalize him permanently! PLEASE! Heyman says that’s why tonight, Logan is not fighting Joe Hendry. W-What?!
Heyman says Bron almost got suspended again, Brock Lesnar retired on us, and if Logan were to get his hands on Hendry, he’ll be put in jail for what he does to him! That’s why tonight, it is Joe Hendry VS Austin Theory. Theory says it’s alright, Maverick. If Logan wants Hendry smacked around, Theory will smack him around. If Logan wants Hendry hurt, Theory will hurt him. He’ll put the Pressure on Hendry, and Logan can just watch. Bron says relax, you’re THE Logan Paul. Vision will get ’em all, one by one. They fist bump on that, but will The Vision all be turned into believers soon enough?
PENTA & Je’Von Evans VS Rusev & Ethan Page!
After the multiple blindsides the past few weeks, he WWE Intercontinental Champion and the Young OG team up against some common enemies in The Bulgarian Lion and All Ego! But will the power of #CeroMiedo see them through? Or will Rusev CRUSH while Ethan steals everyone’s smile?
Raw returns as Rusev makes his entrance, followed by Ethan’s. The teams sort out and Evans starts against Rusev. They circle while the fans rally, and Rusev picks Evans up! Rusev RAMS Evans into the corner, RAMS him again and again, but stops as the ref counts 4. Rusev snarls, ROCKS Evans, then CLUBS him on the back. Evans flounders but Rusev stands him up. Rusev whips, Evans stops himself and BOOST back! Evans ROCKS Rusev with haymaker after haymaker! Evans runs, but Rusev ELBOWS him down! The fans boo but Rusev stalks Evans to a corner. Rusev drags Evans up by his hair, then tags Ethan.
The fans boo more as Ethan and Rusev mug Evans. Ethan says see, they’re a team! Ethan drags Evans up but Evans CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! The fans “WOO~” but Ethan takes a swing. Evans ducks that to DECK Ethan! Then he ROCKS Rusev, too! Ethan runs up, Evans wrenches and kicks! Evans snap suplexes, kips up, and does the Penta swagger! The fans cheer while Evans taunts Rusev. Evans whips, Ethan reverses, but Evans grabs ropes to stop himself. Ethan runs up, Evans flips up and over, tag to Penta! Ethan runs up again but into Penta’s GAMANGIRI! Evans adds a DROPKICK! Penta GAMANGIRIS Ethan again!
Penta sits Ethan down, then headstands for the SWINGING DROPKICK! Rusev runs up, but Penta & Evans dodge to DOUBLE SUPERKICK! Then Penta gives Evans the boost to RANA Rusev! Rusev tumbles out, Evans PLANCHAS, and down goes Rusev! Ethan grabs Penta by the mask, reels him in, but Penta wrenches out! Half nelson, pump handle, PENTA DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!! Ethan survives but sputters while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again as Rusev UPPERCUTS Penta! The fans rally for Penta as Rusev whips corner to corner and SPLASHES! Penta tumbles outside but Rusev goes out after him. Rusev puts Penta back in, but Penta triangle jumps to LARIAT! Rusev is down and Penta crawls! The fans rally harder and harder, but Rusev YANKS Evans from the apron! The fans boo as Rusev denies Penta a tag. Rusev whips Penta to the corner, but P etnta BLASTS Ethan! Then he dodges Rusev! Penta goes to his corner, but Evans is still down! Ethan tags in and he CLOBBERS Penta! Ethan rains down fists, then drags Penta from the corner.
Ethan CLUBS Penta, soaks up heat, and Rusev runs up on Evans! Evans hurdles, Rusev crashes into steel steps! Penta dodges Twisted Grin to BACKSTABBER! The fans fire up as Penta crawls! Hot tag to Evans and Omaha erupts! Evans BOOTS, SUPERKICKS, then LARIATS Ethan! And goes Matrix to dodge, kip up and STUNNER! Ethan wobbles, Evans WRECKS Rusev, then he slips around to GERMAN SUPLEX Ethan! The fans fire up as Evans builds speed to FLY! #WeOutside! Evans throws off his shirt, springboards back in, FLYING LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Ethan survives, he isn’t a former NXT Champion for nothing!
The fans rally for Evans, he goes up a corner, and he MOONSAULTS, but Ethan gets under! ROUNDHOUSE! Ethan reels Evans in, TWISTED- NO, Evans pops free to SUPERKICK! Evans runs, but Ethan BOOTS him first! Ethan whips, but Evans rebounds, RED DOT GAMANGIRI! Hot tag to Penta, springboard TORNADO DDT! Cover, but Rusev breaks it! Evans goes after Rusev but Rusev shoves him away. Evans DUMPS Rusev out, then DIVES! Another hit on Rusev, and now he’s on the desk! The fans are thunderous as they see that look in Evans’ eyes! Evans hurries to the corner and climbs up top!
The fans are going nuts already, but Etan SHOVES Evans down! Penta SUPERKICKS Ethan! Penta then slingshots to- NO, Ethan dodges and SWEEPS the leg! Penta is down but the ref won’t let Ethan go after him. Rusev handles that with an URENAGE on the desk! Rusev feeds Penta to Ethan, FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, ETHAN & RUSEV WIN!
Winners: Rusev & Ethan Page, by pinfall
Both Bulgarian Brute and All Ego have sinister grins on their face, and they celebrate their victory! Not too buddy-buddy, of course. But will these two both have their shot at Penta’s Intercontinental Championship?
Adam Pearce is in the ring.
“When I was a coach in NXT, my favorite, my absolute favorite days, was when a surefire, can’t-miss, blue chip future superstar saw their dreams come true when they got the opportunity to sign one of these to join Raw or SmackDown. Guys, today is one of those days. Let’s take a look.” The fans cheer as we get a highlight reel of the former NXT Women’s North American & WWE Speed Women’s Champion, and Pearce asks we all welcome the newest Raw superstar, Sol Ruca! Sol makes her entrance with a new song, and high-fives fans as she heads down the ramp. Sol joins Pearce in the ring, grabs herself a mic, and Pearce congratulates her.
The fans cheer and Sol smiles as she takes the contract. “Damn. It is going to feel so damn good when I sign this and officially be a part of Monday Night Raw.” But wait, Becky Lynch is interrupting! Pearce is upset as the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion storms her way to the ring. Becky grabs herself a mic to tell Petty Pearce that she’s been looking for him all day! She was told that THIS would be her time for her Celebration of Greatness! Who told her that?! Doesn’t matter, she knows they were a very credible, reliable source. But point is, after her monumental WrestleMania moment, Pearce came out and illegally sanctioned a match with “Iyo Jennetty.”
Which explicitly went against the parameters of her open challenge! But even with that meddling, Becky won! Uncontroversial because she’s the greatest female wrestler of all time, and it’s not just her saying it, other people say it. Sports Illustrated says it, Bleacher Report says it! Sol asks Becky, “Are you done?!” Becky says no, actually, and she’s also a New York Times best seller. Sol says not everything is about Becky. Becky says okay, okay, Sol is very new here, but the sooner she learns this the better. Everything is about her! Well, not this. Everyone knows who Becky is, we know what Becky’s done and accomplished.
But the thing is, Sol didn’t expect to find out that upon meeting Becky, Becky is exactly what everyone says she is. W-Which is? The Man? The history maker? The ground breaker? No. They say Becky is a rude, big-headed B*TCH! And it’s not just Sol saying it, it’s New York Times, Sports Illustrated- Becky says Pearce may be terrible at her job, but is he really letting Sol talk to her like this?! Becky asks if the fans are letting Sol talk to her like this. “YES!” Becky is flabbergasted but the fans cheer Sol on. Becky ask who even is this, and Sol finishes singing her contract. This is Sol Ruca, and if you ever interrupt her again, not only will Sol kick your ass, but she’ll snatch your soul.
Becky takes a swing, Sol dodges, so the punch hits PEARCE! Oops! Becky apologizes but Pearce is furious! Sol smiles as Becky panics, and then she runs up to use the corner! SOUL SNATCHER! The Man is down! Is Sol about to turn the tides and wash away Becky’s big time ego?
The Usos are backstage.
Jackie Redmond catches them as they head for Roman Reigns’ room, and asks them how they’re feeling ahead of the contract signing. Jimmy says it is a big night! Contract signing night between OTC and Samoan Werewolf, and they wouldn’t miss this for nothing. Now, they got a lot of love for Jacob, but Jacob needs to understand how OTC does business, especially when there’s championship gold on the line. Ya feel ’em? Jackie understands, but aren’t they conflicted considering their relationship with both? Jey says nah, Jackie, this right here is family bidness, plain and simple. OTC knows how to handle himself. The Usos are just in case something pops off.
But Jacob, The Usos already told you, Uce! You swimming in deep water now. You bit off more than you can chew. You’re swinging for the fences, though! But they respect that, aight? But Jey is telling you, The Bloodline has been drawn! And at Backlash, you gonna find out who you messing with, Jacob. Good luck, lil’ cousin. YEET. The Usos then step inside Roman’s room. What will the OG Bloodline discuss in regards to this very same family business?
Austin Theory w/ The Vision VS Joe Hendry!
The Vision were a bit… triggered, perhaps, by what The Prestigious Joe Hendry joked about during his concert. But will Hendry feel the Pressure here tonight? Or will Omaha be full of believers after tonight?
Raw returns as Hendry continues his concert where it left off! “He’s one amazing athlete, but he’s a piece of trash! He can shove his trading cards directly up his.. Paul! Paul! Can we fire Logan Paul? Everyone! Paul! Paul! Can we fire Logan Paul?” Logan storms out and shouts that he thought he made it clear that Hendry cannot fire Logan Paul! He is UN-FIREABLE! TKO cannot fire Logan, that’s bad business! Logan IS business! Logan is the heart and soul of the WWE! Hendry says he knows Logan is upset, and he’s glad to see Logan, because this part of the song is the apology. It goes like this: “Paul, Paul, can we fire Logan Paul?”
Logan swears to kill Hendry, but Theory runs up! The bell rings, Hendry fires hands, then LAIRATS Theory up and out of the ring! The fans cheer, Logan tells Theory to handle this! Theory and Logan reset, circle, but the Logan shouts at Hendry. That distraction lets Theory CLOBBER Hendry from behind! The fans boo but Theory CLUBS away on Hendry. Theory then clamps onto Hendry to throw hands right into the side of his head! The fans boo more but Theory CLOBBERS Hendry again! Theory & Logan soak up the heat, then Theory slaps Hendry around. Theory scoops to hit a BACKBREAKER! Theory and Logan fire each other up, but the ref has Logan back off.
Theory stands Hendry up, but Hendry UPPERCUTS and CHOPS and repeat! Hendry whips corner to corner, Theory reverses hard, and Hendry falls to the mat. Theory rains down fists, talks trash, but the fans chant, “Logan Sucks! Logan Sucks!” Logan shouts back that he does not, and Theory goes back to Hendry. Theory drags Hendry up, talks trash, and snap suplexes! “Who sucks now?!” The Vision soaks up more heat, then Theory drags Hendry up. Theory talks more trash, but Hendry suplexes Theory now! The fans cheer while Logan is already upset again. Hendry rises, the fans rally behind him, and Hendry fires haymakers!
Hendry whips Theory to ropes to then LARIAT! Theory flounders from taking the “Commonwealth Clothesline,” and Hendry runs to LARIAT in the corner! Hendry keeps moving, but Theory blows past! Only for Hendry to catch him! FALL AWAY SLAM! And then a kip up, for the… TURN! The fans cheer, but LOGAN ATTACKS!
Winner: Joe Hendry, by disqualification
The fans boo but Logan HAMMERS away on Hendry! Logan hands Hendry the win but he snarls as he tells Hendry, “Nobody can fire me!” Hendry fires off fists! Theory goes after Hendry, the fans boo as The Vision mugs Hendry! They stomp and punch away, but here come the Street Profits! Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins again take the fight to The Vision! SUPERKICK for Logan! Then Ford spins Theory around to ENZIGIRI! Dawkins takes Theory for THE SILENCER! The fans pump it up for The Profits, and Dawkins Electric Chair Lifts Theory! Ford climbs up, but BRON runs in! Bron THROWS Ford out of the ring! Then Bron CLOBBERS Dawkins!
The fans bark as Bron then GERMAN SUPLEXES Dawkins! The Unpredictable Badass turns the tides, but SETH ROLLINS trips him up! The fans cheer as Rollins gets revenge with furious fists! Rollins THROWS Bron into steel steps! Rollins stomps away, then they brawl in the ring! Rollins rains down fists while the fans cheer! Rollins BLASTS Logan & Theory off the apron, then LARIATS Bron down! Omaha is erupting as Rollins is shaking the ropes! Rollins aims, but hold on! Ford FLIES out to take out Logan & Theory! But Bron SPEARS Rollins in the distraction! Bron snarls as he tells Rollins he was that close.
Bron leaves Rollins down again, but he’s still roughed up himself. Will either man survive the Backlash?
Backstage interview with Judgment Day.
Jackie is now with Liv, Dom, JD, Raquel & Roxie, and brings up them sending a message to Finn. But what is the focus moving forward? Liv says yeah, you saw what they did to Finn tonight, and to Vaquer last week. The focus is getting all the gold and crushing anyone who gets in their way. And this season is all about Raquel & Roxie! Tell her, sister! Raquel warns Brie Bella & Paige that their nostalgia tour was cute for a night, but it’s time to get serious. She wants them both to come to their show, because- Bayley & Lyra Valkyria step in, and The Role Model says, “Well, well, well. Wouldya look at here? Can anyone in the Judgment Day get anything done on their own?”
Bayley has known them all for so long and she is just finally getting it. Lyra says they weren’t gonna forget what happened to them last week, either. If they’re such a big happy family, then they won’t be afraid to take them on. Liv mocks them and says families help each other win. Try it sometime, losers. Bye~! Bye~! Judgment Day leaves, but will #BayLyra humble them soon enough? And what of Brie & Paige answering the challenge to show up on “Judgment Day’s show?”
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NJPW PPV Results
Mitchell’s NJPW Wrestling Dontaku Results & Report! (5/3/26)
Wrestling Dontaku, Night One!
Is El Idolo ready for another round with the Gene Blast?
NJPW Wrestling Dontaku night one sees Yota Tsuji once again defend the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship against Andrade El Idolo!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Six Man Tag: Toru Yano, YOH & Master Wato VS Tiger Mask, Ryusuke Taguchi & Taisei Nakahara; Yano, Yoh & Wato win.
- OSKAR & Yuto-Ice VS Tomoaki Honma & Masatora Yasuda; Oskar & Yuto win.
- 8 Man Tag: Yuya Uemura, Taichi, El Desperado & Mistico VS TMDK; Yuya, Taichi, Desperado & Mistico win.
- Six Man Tag: Bishamon & Tatsuya Matsumoto VS Will Ospreay, Great-O-Khan & Henare; Ospreay, Khan & Henare win.
- Konosuke Takeshita & Shota Umino VS Chase Owens & Yujiro Takahashi; Konosuke & Shota win.
- 10 Man Tag: The Unbound Company VS The United Empire; Unbound Company wins.
- Aaron Wolf VS Don Fale; Wolf wins.
- NEVER Openweight Championship: Ren Narita VS Boltin Oleg; Ren wins and retains the title.
- IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji VS Andrade El Idolo; Andrade wins and becomes the new IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion.
PLAY BY PLAY
NEVER Openweight Championship: Ren Narita VS Boltin Oleg!
The House of Torture stole this title from Aaron Wolf, but the big man from Kazakhstan is looking to free it again! Will the Souled Out Son of Strong Style be put behind BARS? Or will he find another way to stack the deck?
But of course, the House has to attack from behind! The fans boo as Ren CLUBS Oleg and Dick Togo uses the SPOILER CHOKER! But then Oleg BOOTS Ren away, hauls Dick up, but Ren kicks low! Ren CLAWS Oleg’s eyes, whips, but Oleg reverses to send Ren hard into to the railing! The fans cheer as Oleg puts Ren in the ring, and the ref rings the bell! This is on record now as Oleg RUNS Ren over! Oleg whips Ren to ropes, Ren reverses, but Oleg CLOBBERS Ren! The fans cheer as Ren tumbles out! Dick checks on Ren, as does the ref. Oleg storms out the side, then storms over, but Dick attacks again! Oleg isn’t even bothered!
Dick cowers and calls for the ref. The ref reprimands Dick for even getting close to Oleg. But this distraction lets Ren JAM Oleg with a chair! And SMACK him down! The fans boo more while Oleg writhes, but Ren stalks him around the way. Ren stands Oleg up, then whips Oleg hard into railing! Oleg writhes again, clutching his arm, but Ren stands him up to wrench and wristlock. Ren then brings Oleg out into the crowd, CLUBS away on the arm, then lines up a shot. Ren whips and BOWLS Oleg into chairs! STRIKE! The fans rally for Oleg while he’s down on the floor, but Ren leaves him behind to roll into the ring.
The ring count climbs while Ren catches his breath. Oleg rises at 6 of 20, hobbles his way over, and rolls in at 12. Ren is right on Oleg with a whip and NECKBREAKER DROP! Cover, TWO! Oleg survives but Ren drags him back up. Ren wrenches the arm and bends the fingers before hitting an ELBOW BREAKER! Ren wrenches for another ELBOW BREAKER! Oleg drops to his knees but Ren wrenches the arm again. Ren hammerlocks the arm and RAMS it into bare buckles! Dick helped pull off the House Special! Ren drags Oleg up, clamps onto the arm, but Oleg stays up. Ren puts Oleg in a corner but the ref counts. Ren lets go at 4, but snapmares Oleg into the corner.
Ren goes outside, he CLAWS Oleg’s face, then bends the bad arm against the crossbar! The fans boo and the ref counts, but Ren lets go at 4. Oleg clutches his elbow while Ren grins an evil grin. Ren stalks Oleg, stomps him around, then eggs him on. Oleg rises up but Ren kicks him. Oleg ROCKS Ren with the good arm! And ROCKS him again, and again, and again! Ren wrenches the bad arm to another ELBOW BREAKER! Ren wraps the bad arm around ropes, stops as the ref counts, but Dick HOTSHOTS the arm in the distraction! Ren hits as FLYING ARMBAR TAKEDOWN! The fans rally for Oleg as he fights around.
Oleg high stacks Ren, then deadlifts for a POWERBOMB! The fans cheer while both men are down! Oleg rises first and the fans rally behind him. Oleg drags Ren up, but Ren fights the gut wrench to have the bad arm! ELBOW BREAKER! Ren RAMS shoulders with Oleg, RAMS again, then whips, but Oleg reverses to BELLY2BELLY! The fans fire up as Oleg rises again! Oleg drags Ren up with the gut wrench, for the Shake, Shake, Shake, and THROW! Oleg kips up, the fans fire up, and Oleg shakes out the bad arm. Oleg runs corner to corner but Ren dodges! Ren runs up, but Oleg scoops! And he THROWS Ren again!
Oleg runs, runs, and BOLTIN PRESS! Cover, TWO! Ren survives but the fans rally behind Oleg again. Oleg storms over to Ren, drags him up, and reels him in, only for Ren to fight the lift. Oleg CLUBS Ren, but Ren CHOKES Oleg! Oleg breaks free to CHOP Ren! Oleg winds up, but Ren uses the ref as a shield! Oleg stops short, helps Marty Asami duck, and then he CHOPS Ren after all! Ren complains to the ref, but blocks a kick! Ren hands it to the ref so he can hit an ARMBAR TAKEDOWN! The fans rally for Oleg as he powers right out! Both men rise up, and Oleg runs at Ren, only for Ren to DUMP him out!
Ren kicks Oleg, grabs a chair, and he puts the chair around the arm! Dick distracts the ref while Ren- NO, Oleg blocks the Pillmanizing! Oleg ROCKS Ren, then CHAIR LARIATS! The fans fire up as the “Chairiat” takes Ren down! Oleg kicks the chair away, then drags Ren up. The fans cheer as Oleg puts Ren in the ring, then storms over to him. Oleg drags Ren up, gut wrenches again, for more Shake, Shake, Shake, and the DOCTOR- NO! Ren fights the bomb! Ren is free but he flounders to a corner. Oleg runs up to SPLASH! Then Oleg torture racks, but Ren CLAWS Oleg’s eyes! Ren whips Oleg into the ref!
Ren CLAWS Oleg’s face, then Yoshinobu Kanemaru appears! The fans boo as the Heel Master kicks Oleg down! Kanemaru uncorks his whiskey bottle to take a big swig! Kanemaru aims, but Oleg smothers the mist! Oleg fireman’s carries Kanemaru, but Dick runs in! Dick kicks Oleg but he doesn’t budge! Oleg then squeezes Kanemaru and the WHISKEY MIST hits Dick!! But Ren is up, only for Oleg to THROW Kanemaru onto him! The fans fire up for Oleg, and he calls to the ref before grabbing Ren’s legs. Oleg YANKS Ren right up, into the POWERBOMB!! High stack, TWO!! Ren survives the #BoltinBomb but the fans rally for Oleg!
Oleg grits his teeth, shakes out his bad arm, then torture racks Ren! Ren flails as Oleg bends him back! But now SHO is here! Sho distracts right as Ren TAPS! Oleg would’ve won! Oleg sees Sho, runs him off, but Sho eggs Oleg on. But then WOLF is here! The fans cheer as Aaron Wolf kicks Sho, then hauls him away! But then Ren kicks Oleg’s legs out, and has him in the GUILLOTINE! But Oleg powers up, powers out, and suplexes Ren! Ren slips free, kicks low and DOUBLE CROSSER! Cover, TWO!! Oleg survives and Ren is beside himself! The fans cheer Oleg on as he and Ren stir. Ren crawls to ropes, drags himself up, and vows to end this!
Ren climbs the corner, takes aim from up high, for HELL’S- NO, Oleg catches Ren for a SNAP KAMIKAZE!! But the bad arm holds him back! Oleg can’t make the cover as he clutches the shoulder in pain! The fans rally even harder as Oleg rises again. Oleg roars, drags Ren up, and fireman’s carries! VERDICT!! Ren flounders but Oleg makes the cover this time, ROPEBREAK!! Ren survives by fingertips, and Oleg is frustrated with his miscalculation. Oleg roars again, he brings Ren back up, and the fans cheer the fireman’s carry. But Ren grabs ropes! Oleg can’t pry Ren free, so he just goes up! But Ren CLAWS Oleg’s eyes!
The ref reprimands but Ren goes up, up, and SUPER ARMBAR TAKEDOWN!! Oleg flails, reaches out, but Ren pulls on the bad arm! The fans cheer as hard as they can for Oleg as he fights around! Oleg reaches out, but he’s still so far away! Oleg kicks, kicks, kicks, and has the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer as Oleg survives by a literal foot! Ren drags Oleg up, brings him to the corner, and climbs up. Ren vows to end it now! DOWN TO DIE on the arm! DISARMER!! Oleg endures the mounted armbar, but then powers through, only to end up in an ARMBAR!! Ren puts on the pressure, but Oleg again powers up! Deadlift, but Kanemaru distracts the ref!!
DICK LOW BLOWS OLEG!! The ref misses all that, and Ren drags Oleg back down!! Oleg TAPS, Ren wins!!
Winner: Ren Narita, by submission (still NEVER Openweight Champion)
Another day, another way for Ren to cheat and steal this title away! Then the House stomps away on Oleg! Wolf returns to run them off, but he was not enough to even the odds during the match. Wolf grabs a mic to tell Ren, “What do you think you’re playing at? See if you can step on me one more time! Put that belt on the line and fight me! I promise to take back that title!” The Wolf has eyes on his prey, but will he huff ‘n’ puff and blow the House of Torture down? Or will they stack the deck too high for anyone to overcome?
IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji VS Andrade El Idolo!
What was meant to be former friends settling a grudge is now a second chance for a “Real Latino Man.” Gabe Kidd is hurt, so Andrade is back again, but will he redeem himself from the New Beginning in USA? Or will Gene Blast still be golden?
President Hiroshi Tanahashi is here to give the formal introductions and raise the belt as we see if history repeats itself!
The bell rings and the fans rally as the two stare down. The fans cheer on “YO~TA! YO~TA!” but Andrade ignores that as the two circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, but Yota’s height becomes his leverage. Yota puts Andrade on the ropes, but lets off cleanly. The fans applaud and Andrade shakes it off. The two reset and circle again. They tie up, are in another deadlock, but Andrade pushes Yota to the ropes. Andrade lets off, but CHOPS! Yota CHOPS, but Andrade headlocks. Yota endures the grind, but Andrade hits a takeover. Yota headscissors, Andrade kips free, but Yota hits the takeover, only for Andrade to handspring through!
Andrade returns to RANA, but Yota handsprings through! The fans cheer as the two stare down again. They circle, feel things out, and tie up with knuckle locks. They go shoulder to shoulder but Andrade wrenches to headlock. Yota powers up but can’t power out as Andrade pulls hair! Yota powers up and out this time, but Andrade RUNS him over! The fans cheer, and Andrade runs, only for Yota to hurdle over. Andrade leaps over, Yota sidesteps, but Andrade springboards to CROSSBODY! Andrade then LARIATS Yota up and out! The fans fire up, and Andrade builds speed! But Yota slips in, dodges Andrade, and slips around to arm-drag!
Andrade bails out and now Yota builds speed! The fans cheer, but Andrade is back! Yota blocks the boot, but Andrade whips, only for Yota to reverse. Andrade goes tranquilo in the ropes! The fans cheer, but Yota nods and raises his own LIJ fist. Yota then BOOTS Andrade to the floor! Yota goes out after Andrade, puts him in the ring, and the fans rally again. Yota drags Andrade up, KNEES him low, then KNEES him again. Andrade fires elbows, swings, but into a half nelson! GUT BUSTER! The fans cheer while Andrade goes to a corner. Yota runs in for a STINGER SPLASH! Yota then climbs up, and the fans cheer as he rains down elbows!
Yota goes to nine, winds up, but Andrade YANKS Yota down before ten! Andrade then stomps away on Yota, drags him up, and scoops to SLAM! The fans cheer again while Andrade snarls. Andrade storms back over to Yota, drags him up, and snapmares. Andrade runs to basement DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Andrade clamps onto Yota with a headlock and grinds him down. The fans rally as Yota endures, and Yota fights his way back up. But Andrade wrangles Yota down and puts on more pressure. The fans rally more as Yota keeps fighting around. Yota kicks his way forward to the ROPEBREAK!
The fans cheer as Andrade lets go, but Yota coughs and sputters as he catches his breath. Andrade grabs legs, and he stomps Yota in the stomach! Andrade looms over Yota, drags him back up, and puts him in the corner to CHOP! Yota is stinging, but also grinning! Yota eggs Andrade on, so the gloves literally come off! Andrade CHOPS Yota! The fans cheer and Yota keeps smiling! Andrade says uno mas, or perhaps moikai, and he kicks instead! Andrade wags his finger, then ROCKS Yota! Andrade whips corner to corner, then runs up, but Yota puts him on the apron! But Andrade blocks the enzigiri to put Yota in the Tree of Woe!
Andrade goes up, WOE STOMPS! Cover, TWO!! Yota survives but Andrade says it was that close. Andrade then drags Yota up in the corner, ROCKS him with forearm after forearm, but Red Shoes reprimands. Andrade backs off, but he rallies the fans as he goes corner to corner and back again, CIEN- NO, Yota ducks the knees to sunset flip! TWO, and Andrade ROCKS Yota! Yota ROCKS Andrade! They go forearm for forearm, then Andrade CHOPS! And CHOPS! Andrade runs, but Yota scoops to BACKBREAKER! The fans cheer while both men are down! The fans rally again, and Yota rises first. Yota is grinning again, he’s enjoying this.
Yota stands Andrade up to CHOP! Andrade wobbles, then drops to a knee, but Yota stands him up again. Yota CHOPS again, then brings Andrade around. Yota winds up, but Andrade blocks and CHOPS! And CHOPS! Andrade runs, but Yota ELBOWS him! And CHOPS! Yota roars, runs, but Andrade catches him on the second rope for the INVERTED SPANISH FLY! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! The fans rally as both men stir, and Andrade stands first. Andrade brings Yota up, and snap suplexes! But that’s just Uno Amigo! Andrade suplexes again, but Yota slips out! Yota waistlocks but Andrade ELBOWS free!
Andrade runs up but into a BOOT! Andrade comes back, but into another BOOT! Yota goes up, up, and FLYING ARM-DRAGS! Yota keeps going, tilt-o-whirls and arm-drags again! Andrade tumbles out of the ring but the fans rally behind Yota as he builds speed! And this time, Yota DIVES! Direct hit at the ramp! The fans cheer as Yota stands tall going up the ramp. Yota goes back for Andrade, brings him back to the ring, and the fans applaud. Yota aims as Andrade rises, and he runs corner to corner for the GENE TRIGGER! Yota hauls Andrade up top, then climbs up to join him! The fans rally as Yota sets up for the SUPER STEINER! Cover, TWO!
Andrade survives but Yota just keeps on him! Yota has the legs but Andrade resists the turnover. Andrade BOOTS Yota away, but Yota storms back up. Yota reels Andrade in, but Andrade hits a snap suplex! Then another, that’s Dos Amigos! Yota fights the third, but Andrade dodges the lariat to then FLYING FOREARM! Both men are down again and the fans rally back up! Yota crawls to a corner, but Andrade pounds the mat. The fans clap along, “SI! SI! SI!” Andrade runs corner to corner and back again, CIEN KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Yota survives and the fans fire up again! Andrade drags Yota to a drop zone, then goes up the corner!
The fans rally as Andrade DROPDOWN MOONSAULTS, into BOOTS! Yota then has Andrade in the ropes for a KICK! Yota goes from the corner, but Andrade manages a SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans are stunned as Yota hits apron then the floor! Daiki Nagai fans Yota off, but Andrade TRIANGLE JUMP TORNILLOS! Down goes Yota and the fans fire up again! Andrade snarls, then brings Yota up and into the ring. Andrade climbs up, up, and MOONSAULT DOUBLES! Cover, TWO! Andrade is surprised, but he can’t help but smile. The fans rally more and more as Andrade brings Yota up, and underhooks!
Yota fights The Message, RAMS Andrade into a corner, but then Andrade hoists Yota up top! Andrade CHOPS again, then climbs up after Yota. Andrade brings Yota up, up, and SUPER DUPER PLEXES!! And then he just rolls through! That’s just Uno Amigo! Then a snap suplex for Dos Amigos! And then- ORANGE CRUSH from Yota!! Cover, TWO!! Still no third amigo but both men are down again! The fans rally even harder as Yota drags himself to the ropes. Yota nods, and even manages a smile. He uses this energy to rise again! Yota brings Andrade up, then goes up the corner! MARLOWE- NO, Andrade is after him again!
Yota fights the Spanish Fly, Andrade fires body shots of his own, but Yota kicks the legs out! Andrade dangles, Yota adjusts, DRAPING MARLOWE CRUSH! Cover, TWO!! Andrade survives and the fans fire up again! Andrade goes to the apron but Yota follows him outside. Yota stands Andrade up, but Andrade fires an elbow! Yota fires a forearm, Andrade fires back, and the two brawl on the edge. Yota laughs, then GENE TRIGGER! And then RANA to the floor!! The fans are thunderous for that wild gamble of an attack! Yota roars as he rises and the fans are with him! Yota drags Andrade up, brings him around, and POSTS him!
Yota pushes Andrade to the apron, then steps back inside. Yota climbs the corner, brings Andrade up to join him, but Andrade fires hands. Yota CLUBS away on Andrade, but Andrade fights the clinch! Andrade looks to the outside?! Yota fights the suplex to go to the very top! And he brings Andrade up, SUPER SPANISH FLY!! Cover, TWO!! Andrade survives and the fans cheer, but Yota isn’t done with him! Yota stands Andrade up, pump handles, but Andrade fights with elbows! Yota ROCKS Andrade in the back! Yota back suplexes, but Andrade lands out! Yota mule kicks, runs, and LARIATS! Andrade stays standing!?
Andrade SHOVES Yota, eggs him on, so Yota runs, and he avoids the Shadow Elbow! GENE TRIGGER! Then the pump handle, the lift, and the SILVER LINING SLAM!! Cover, TWO!! Andrade survives again but Yota powers up! The fans cheer as Yota hits his three point stance and waits on Andrade. Andrade rises, Yota runs in, GENE- SHADOW ELBOW!!! Both men are down and the fans fire back up! Red Shoes checks both men, they’re both still in this, so a standing count begins! Both men are still down at 5 of 10 while the fans rally harder and harder. They’re still down at 7! At 8! Both men sit up at 9! But then they flop back over!
Red Shoes lets the match continue from here, as we’re already 25 minutes deep. Andrade and Yota sit up again, and they stare down as they rise up. Andrade eggs Yota on, so Yota winds up to CHOP! Andrade wobbles, but he walks that one off. The fans rally as Andrade winds up to CHOP! The sweat is seen flying off Yota, then he drops to his knees! And yet, Yota grins again! Yota stands back up, winds up, and CHOPS! The favor has been returned as Andrade is now stinging. Andrade stands back up, and he nods before he CHOPS! Yota drops to his knees, then falls back! But he gets up quickly enough as the fans rally again.
Yota storms up, winds up, and CHOPS! Andrade’s chest is getting red, as is Yota’s, but Andrade- YOTA HEADBUTTS! Yota changes things on Andrade, then reels him in! POWER- SUNSET BOMB!! Cover, TWO and Yota has it! TWO and Andrade has it! TWO, Yota has it again, TWO! Andrade dodges, springboards, into a GENE BLASTER!!! Cover, TWO?!? Andrade survives the anti-air attack but Yota crawls his way to the corner. Yota loads up but he demands Andrade stand again! Andrade rises, Yota runs in, GENE- NO, Andrade hurdles over! Then he rolls Yota up, and deadlifts for a POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO!!
Andrade drags Yota up, underhooks, but Yota defies the Message! So Andrade hammerlocks, LA SOMBRA DDT!! Cover, TWO?!? Yota survives and Andrade is beside himself, but the fans are thunderous! Andrade rises, he vows to end this, and he underhooks Yota. Yota fights The Message, but Andrade powers up! Andrade shifts, for a TIGER DESTROYER!! Then Andrade hauls Yota up to the corner, still underhooking the arms! But Yota NORTHERN LIGHTS! Double cover, TWO!! Yota clinches, BACKBREAKER! FLATLINER! STOMP!! The Gene Combination hits as we hit 30 minutes! Then Yota hits the JUMBO PLEX!!
Yota drags Andrade by the legs, then fires up as he turns Andrade! BOSTON CRAB!! The fans are thunderous as Andrade endures! Andrade reaches out but Yota drags him to center! Yota sits deep on the hold, but Andrade still fights! Andrade scrambles his way to the ROPEBREAK! The fans are thunderous as Yota lets go in frustration. Yota and Andrade sit up, and Yota still smiles. The fans rally behind Yota as he brings Andrade up and places him up top. Yota climbs up behind Andrade, then dragon sleepers! The fans rally as Andrade fires elbows! Andrade turns around, and he has the facelock, DDT on the post?!?
Andrade falls to the floor but that’s the lesser of the damage! He hurries back inside, he hauls Yota back up, for THE MESSAGE!!! Cover, ANDRADE WINS!!!
Winner: Andrade El Idolo, by pinfall (NEW IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion)
An instant classic and an absolute shocker at the same time as Andrade has his revenge! Yota went from two belts to none, what will his journey of redemption look like?
As for Andrade, Tanahashi presents him with the belt, and Andrade holds it high. This is not only a win for the United Empire, but a win for AEW and the Don Callis Family. Andrade grabs a mic to say, “I did it.” The fans applaud, and Andrade continues by saying, “I wanna say thank you. Yota Tsuji is good, he’s an amazing talent, but Andrade El Idolo was better tonight.” The fans applaud again, and Andrade says he knows many know he is an AEW talent, but this title is NJPW’s. So Andrade will now officially be working in both companies, both companies are in his blood. And he wants to thank everyone here in Japan for watching.
Andrade says he now has a question, and it is a simple one: Who wants to challenge him? The fans applaud, and Andrade drops the mic. Andrade holds up the belt again, but wait! Stepping out in a nice suit is Drilla Moloney. But then Shota Umino is also here, still in ring gear. Andrade likes where this is going as the two challengers talk on stage. 44 Caliber and Roughneck both go to the ring, and Andrade asks if they heard what he said. So Drilla wants this title? And Shota wants it, too? Then he has an idea.
If they want this title, HIS title, why not this just be a Triple Threat for the Global Heavyweight Championship? Just say where, when, and what time. Then The RRRREAL~ Latino Man will be there! The fans cheer as Andrade is already raising the bar on this belt! Andrade says just call and he’ll be there. Andrade tells the fans, “Arigato!” The fans cheer, but will Andrade regret stacking the odds for his first defense? When and where will we see this shootout happen?
My Thoughts:
A great start to the Wrestling Dontaku double event, and quite the surprising result for the main event. While House of Torture shenanigans were 1000% expected for Narita VS Oleg, that was still a great match. But at the same time, as great as Oleg is, he was not going to become a TRIPLE champion between the NJPW Strong and both NEVER Openweight titles. Aaron Wolf stepping up to Ren is good stuff, but seriously, can Tanahashi use his authority to put ringside bans up? It’s actually bad kayfabe logic from management to not see that as an option.
But as I was saying, amazing main event, and Yota losing is pretty wild. I suppose even if this was Yota Tsuji VS Gabe Kidd, Gabe winning would’ve worked in story, too, positioning this title as a crossover title between NJPW and AEW. Yota’s story of making a comeback will be an intriguing one. Perhaps he uses the G1 Climax as his road back. As for Andrade being up for the Triple Threat with Shota and Drilla, that’s pretty cool, too. I don’t see Andrade losing his first defense, but a Triple Threat is a classic way to keep all parts strong no matter the result.
My Score: 8.9/10
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