Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE WrestleMania 36 Night 1 Results!
The first night of WrestleMania Weekend!
WWE truly gives us a WrestleMania Weekend!
The WWE isn’t afraid, they’re giving us a WrestleMania “too big for one night!” What history will be made during such unprecedented days?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Preshow Match – Drew Gulak VS Cesaro; Cesaro wins.
- WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: The Kabuki Warriors VS Bliss-Cross; Bliss-Cross win and become the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.
- Elias VS Baron Corbin; Elias wins.
- Raw Women’s Championship: Becky Lynch VS Shayna Baszler; Lynch wins and retains the Raw Women’s Championship.
- WWE Intercontinental Championship: Sami Zayn w/ The Artist Collective VS Daniel Bryan w/ Drew Gulak; Zayn wins and retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship.
- SmackDown Tag Team Championships Triple Threat Ladder Match: John Morrison VS Kofi Kingston VS Jimmy Uso; Morrison wins and retains the SmackDown Tag Team Championships.
- Seth Rollins VS Kevin Owens; Kevin wins, by disqualification.
- No Disqualifications: Seth Rollins VS Kevin Owens; Kevin wins.
- WWE 24/7 Championship Host-ile Takeover: R-Truth VS Mojo Rawley VS Rob Gronkowski; Rawley wins and becomes the new WWE 24/7 Champion.
- WWE Universal Championship: Goldberg VS Braun Strowman; Strowman wins and becomes the new WWE Universal Champion.
- Boneyard Match: AJ Styles VS The Undertaker; Taker wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
It’s the WrestleMania Preshow!
Corey Graves and Peter Rosenberg are in the WWE Headquarters! Join them as they discuss, analyze and predict everything that’s going on this WrestleMania that’s “too big for one night.”
Preshow Match – Drew Gulak VS Cesaro!
Before The Great Liberator defends his WWE Intercontinental Championship against Daniel Bryan, his Swiss Cyborg goes after Coach Gulak! Will the Philly Stretcher hold his own against the pound-for-pound strongest member of the Artist Collective?
The bell rings and Cesaro goes right at Gulak. Gulak gets Cesaro with the armlock first and drags him down. Cesaro fights up and powers out, but runs into a boot. Gulak runs into a scoop and backbraeker! Cover, TWO! Cesaro drags Gulak in and wants the Gotch but Gulak powers out! Gulak has the arm again and brings Cesaro down! He almost has a Fujiwara, but Cesaro powers up. Gulak drags Cesaro back down to the mat. Cesaro makes it a cover, TWO and Cesaro dead lifts to POWERBOMB Gulak down! Cesaro shakes out his arm before dragging Gulak up. He reels Gulak back in but Gulak rolls to a takedown! He has a YES LOCK! But Cesaro gets the ROPEBREAK! Gulak lets Cesaro go but then dumps Cesaro out of the ring!
Gulak goes to the apron and leaps for a flying lariat! Direct hit but Gulak keeps on Cesaro. Cesaro blocks being thrown into steel steps and hits Gulak back. Cesaro puts Gulak in, but Gulak hotshots Cesaro’s bad arm! Gulak clotheslines Cesaro back out! Gulak fires up, goes out to the apron again, and LEAPS! But Cesaro catches him! Gulak reverses Cesaro’s scoop into an arm-drag! Gulak throws Cesaro into steel steps, shoulder first! Cesaro gets up but gets thrown into more steel steps! Gulak puts Cesaro in and then climbs up top. Gulak leaps but into a EUROPEAN UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! And to Gulak’s cover, ONE! Into the FUJIWARA! Cesaro endures as Gulak cranks back!
Cesaro powers up and knees Gulak low. He knees more and then whips Gulak to ropes. Gulak rolls under to sunset flip, TWO! Gulak leaps to get the dragon sleeper! Cesaro powers up to a SLAM! And a BOOT! Cesaro drags Gulak up and in, but the bad arm keeps him from completing the lift! Gulak slips out but Cesaro sends him at the ref! Gulak stops himself, but turns around into a EuroUpper! Cesaro changes plans to a torture rack and an airplane spin! WITH NO HANDS! Cesaro then SLAMS Gulak down and covers, Cesaro wins!
Winner: Cesaro, by pinfall
Incredible! As tough as Gulak was, and as much as he damaged Cesaro’s arm, Cesaro had a back-up plan! Will Cesaro be part of Sami’s plan in the Intercontinental Championship match?
Backstage interview with Baron Corbin.
The King of the Ring may not have to face Elias after that brutal attack two weeks ago. Corbin shows no remorse for what he did. He does regret he didn’t pile on with road cases. But as a man of tradition, the man who ended Kurt Angle’s career, he’ll accept doing the same to Elias. Corbin even has a song! Corbin plays a harmonica as he basically just brags in rhythm. Well, rhythmic but tone deaf. Will Corbin be able to sing his praises at the end of tonight?
The WWE Backstage hosts join the preshow!
Renee Young, Booker T and Mark Henry are here to discuss Becky Lynch VS Shayna Baszler! It is certainly one of the most anticipated matches on this card. The Raw Women’s Championship is on the line, but in very different circumstances. A crowd of 70 thousand could rattle you, though Shayna is not easily rattled. However, no fans at all, that might affect Becky more. Becky will need to use some “tricks of the trade” to survive, or she’ll lose. Booker and Henry are split on who wins, who will be shocked by what goes down?
Stephanie McMahon addresses the WWE Universe.
“Every year, about this time, WWE presents its premier event, WrestleMania.” Each event has its own personality and has been different from before. This year’s will be the most different of all. The current circumstances prevent there being an audience, but there will be the same commitment to provide us all with the diversion, a sense of hope, determination, and of course, entertainment. With that said, the WWE thanks its fans, and welcomes them to WrestleMania!
WrestleMania has always had the best of the best be part of the celebration.
But with no live crowd allowed, that also means no live performance of the National Anthem. So instead, WWE presents a montage-medley of all 35 previous performances. Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Ray Charles, Michelle Williams, Boys II Men, Little Richard and so many more amazing voices blend together to sing the anthem of the great United States of America.
“A battle for the ages” is on the horizon.
Rise as one, or fall as… CUT! That’s starting at the end. You can’t start at the end. Where is the drama? The rising action? Story-telling 101. Back-up to… There! The raging ocean. “The darkest hour… is just before the dawn.” Movie narration, go! No, wait, that’s very cliche. Okay, yes, this is all cliche because it’s pirate theme with a pedestrian knockoff Jack Sparrow. But it’s also so much more. It’s a story of adventure, bravery, maybe even madness. Wait why are there horses and aliens? Give us the heroic montage! The epic effects! Mythical juxtapositions!
Our heroes, our icons, our legends are all here after hundreds of days and nights around the world. This is their quest for gold, glory and immortality! You may think you’ve heard this story before, but forget what you have learned. For fate has a funny way of surprising you. “Tonight, adventure awaits.” But history waits for no one! Both those things collide in one epic weekend! Who conquers the conquerors? Who raises the greatest treasures imaginable? And who stands tall on the Grandest Stage of Them All?
Rob Gronkowski welcomes us to WrestleMania 36!
The NFL Super Bowl winner is here as “the host with the most” of this epic weekend! The party is too big for one night, so now we need the entire weekend! Well Gronk is the right man for the job! So sit back, grab a drink, and forget your world to be entertained in this world. Gronk brings out Mojo Rawley and we get hyped! High stakes, no brakes, and it starts NOW!
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: The Kabuki Warriors VS Bliss-Cross!
Who better to open a pirate themed WrestleMania than the Pirate Princess? Kairi Sane and the Empress of Tomorrow look to keep hold of their treasure! But will the Goddess and loony lass be take their booty and kick some ass?
The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and teams sort out. Alexa and Asuka start, ready for a rematch from SmackDown. The two approach, Asuka dodges Alexa, and the Kabuki Warriors have a good laugh. Kairi tags in and she now steps to Alexa. Kairi pushes Alexa around but then starts making them harder palm strikes. Alexa falls down and Kairi mocks the ribbons in Alexa’s hair. They’re cute, but then Alexa SLAPS back! Alexa catches Kairi’s retaliation and mocks Kairi’s hair. Alexa then hits the standing STO and then mocks Asuka. The ref keeps Asuka back as Alexa drops knees. Tag to Nikki and Nikki dropkicks Kairi! Cover, ONE, but Nikki waistlocks to hop on for a thrashing sleeper! Kairi puts Nikki on ropes and in the Kabuki corner. Tag to Asuka and Asuka attacks Nikki.
The Kabuki Warriors stomp Nikki down but the ref backs Asuka off. Asuka says she knows the rules. Asuka snapmares Nikki to then buzzsaw kick! She toys with Nikki and pushes her around. She talks trash in Japanese but Nikki hits back with forearms. Nikki gets an edge but Asuka pushes back. Alexa tags in and Nikki throws Asuka out! Nikki trips up Kairi and clubs away with forearms! The ref reprimands Nikki but Alexa wrecks Kairi with a dropkick! Alexa is on the apron, and she CANNONBALLS onto Asuka! The ref starts a ring count but Nikki crossbodies Kairi down! Bliss-Cross are fired up and hug it out as the Kabuki Warriors regroup. Alexa gets Asuka in the ring at 5 and covers, TWO! Alexa drags Asuka up and wrenches. Tag to Nikki and Nikki climbs up. Nikki leaps for double ax handles!
Nikki wrenches but Asuka DECKS her! Tag to Kairi and Kairi ax kicks Nikki down! Kairi whips but Nikki reverses to send Kairi back out. Kairi hurries up but Nikki swings. But Kairi catches the kick to CHOP! And CHOP! Asuka comes over to help but Alexa wrecks her with a dropkick! The women are brawling and Asuka throws Alexa into the post! Nikki throws Kairi at barriers but Kairi goes up to headscissor back! Asuka ROUNDHOUSES Nikki down! The Kabuki Warriors talk trash and praise themselves as the ring count climbs. Asuka puts Nikki in at 8 and follows. Asuka stomps Nikki down short of getting to Alexa. She says “Mudi mudi!” aka it’s impossible to beat the Kabuki Warriors! Asuka tags Kairi and they mug Nikki.
The Kabuki whip and kick Nikki! Then ax kick to bulldog to dropkick! Asuka and Kairi are having fun now as Kairi sits for a cover. ONE so Kairi clubs away on Nikki. Kairi drags Nikki up in a facelock and cranks on her neck. Kairi ALabama lifts but Nikki sunset flips! TWO, and Nikki hurries. Kairi grabs at Nikki but Nikki kicks her away, hot tag to Alexa! Alexa rallies with lariats and counter punches to ROCK and DROPKICK! Asuka shouts for Kairi to get up but Alexa runs in. Kairi dodges but Alexa still punches her first. Alexa climbs up but Asuka hurries over. The ref reprimands them but the Kabuki Warriors trip Alexa up! Kairi climbs to WOE STOMP Alexa down!! Cover, TWO!! Alexa survives and Kairi argues the count.
Kairi drags Alexa up to grind her boots in. The ref counts but Kairi lets up to kick. Alexa kicks back but Kairi kicks her down! SLIDING D! Cover, TWO! Kairi drags Alexa up and wrenches her hair. Tag to Asuka and the Kabuki mug Alexa on the ropes. Asuka stands on Alexa’s neck at the apron. Kairi thrashes Alexa around while the ref pulls Asuka off. Asuka says she knows the rules, because that’s how they’re getting away with all this. Asuka clamps onto Alexa with an armlock. Alexa endures and fights her way up. Alexa throws hands but Asuka throws Alexa by her hair! Nikki protests but Asuka chokes Alexa on the ropes. Asuka lets up at 4 but Kairi hotshots Alexa down!
Asuka goes after Alexa with forearms, then runs corner to corner for a hip attack! Alexa denies the bulldog but not the pop-up KNEE! Cover, TWO!! Alexa toughs it out but Asuka is still on her. Asuka bumps Alexa off buckles as Nikki rallies for Alexa. Asuka runs in and Alexa knees her away! Alexa runs, ducks the back hand to ROCK Asuka! But Asuka ROUNDHOUSES back! Both women are down and crawling for their corners! Hot tags to Kairi and Nikki! Nikki rallies with big forearms! She runs in at the corner to splash and bulldog! Nikki unzips her vest and climbs up top! FLYING CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO!! Nikki drags Kairi up but Kairi rakes the eyes! Tag to Asuka and Kairi runs in at Nikki. Nikki puts Kairi outside but Kairi shoulders in. But into a facelock! Nikki wants her neckbreaker but Asuka clubs her on the back!
Asuka fires off palm strikes but Nikki blocks the back hand! Nikki hits THE PURGE!! But Kairi hits the InSANE Elbow to break the cover!! Everyone is down but Nikki heads for Asuka. Nikki and Asuka are up, Nikki waistlocks but Asuka flails! O’Conner roll but Asuka pops out! ASUKA LOCK!! Nikki flails and rolls but Asuka stays clamped on! Alexa uses TWISTED BLISS to return the favor! But Kairi SPEARS Alexa! Everyone is down again! Asuka returns to her corner but Alexa is nowhere to be found. Kairi tags in and Asuka hits a CODE BREAKER! Kairi is up top again, but Nikki goes after her! The two fight up top and Kairi clubs away. Nikki clubs back but Asuka tags back in.
Asuka adds on and the Kabuki have Nikki 2v1! Asuka sunset flips and Kairi adjusts, KABUKI DOOMSDAY!! Cover, TWO!?! Nikki survives and the Kabuki Warriors cannot believe it! Kairi tags back in and Asuka drags Nikki up. Kairi DECKS ALexa and then runs. But Nikki dodges! The Kabuki avoid colliding, but then Nikki POSTS Asuka! Kairi clubs Nikki but Nikki ducks the back hand. THE PURGE hits again! Tag to Alexa, for another TWISTED BLISS!! Cover, Bliss-Cross wins!!
Winners: Bliss-Cross, by pinfall (NEW WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions)
Amazing! The best friends are back on top! Will they reach new heights together?
Backstage interview with Sami Zayn.
Sami and his Artist Collective are feeling good, but now Sami must defend his title against Daniel Bryan. Is it inevitable, though? The “inevitable” was Braun Strowman beating these three to retain the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Yet it is Sami, “The Great Liberator,” holding the title! Everyone wants to see Bryan shut Sami’s mouth, but that’s not inevitable. Having this match doesn’t mean Bryan gets at Sami. The Artist Collective always has a plan. But one thing that is inevitable is that Sami will do what very few have ever done. He will walk in as Intercontinental Champion, and then walk out still Intercontinental Champion. Which inevitability will become reality?
Elias VS Baron Corbin!
The Drifter has said the Lone Wolf King is delusional, but Corbin’s attack was very real. Has Elias recovered enough to exact revenge on Corbin? Or is he the one who will #DriftAway?
Corbin grabs a mic to say, “The King has arrived at WrestleMania!” But Elias is nowhere to be found. Corbin replays the footage of his attack to make sure we all remember how it happened. “That felt good to send Elias flying off that balcony. And what’s going to feel even better is getting my second win at WrestleMania in a row.” So Elias should be counted out and Corbin’s hand should be raised in victory! But wait! The guitar strum signals that Elias IS here! Corbin rushes Elias but Elias kicks and guitar SMASHES Corbin back! This match isn’t official because Corbin didn’t wait for the bell! Elias throws Corbin into barriers and into the post! He CHOPS Corbin down then bumps him off the apron!
Elias puts Corbin in the ring but the ref keeps Elias back. Corbin flounders to a corner and drags himself to his feet. The bell rings and Elias goes after Corbin on the record! Elias CHOPS and clubs Corbin then whips him to ropes. Elias runs Corbin over with an elbow and covers, TWO! Corbin can’t get away before Elias is on him with another CHOP! Elias throws big forearms and springboard stomps Corbin down. The ref backs Elias off but Elias drags Corbin up. Elias reels Corbin in for a swinging neckbreaker! Cover, ONE! Elias drags Corbin back up to CHOP again! But Corbin flapjacks Elias up and out of the ring! Corbin demands the ref count Elias out, and the count begins. Elias is up at 3 and in at 4, but Corbin throws him into a POST. Corbin covers, TWO!
Corbin stomps Elias down then puts him in a corner. He throws big body shots and haymakers then whips Elias corner to corner. Elias hits buckles hard, but dodges Corbin. Corbin slides out then in then LARIATS Elias down! Cover, TWO! Corbin grows frustrated but he goes after Elias again. “How’s your arm, huh?!” Corbin drags Elias up with a chinbar to drive elbows into the bad shoulder! Then Corbin shouts at commentary to praise him. Elias body shots Corbin back! Corbin knees low then POSTS Elias again! Corbin grins as Elias falls back and clutches his arms. Cover, TWO! The Wolf King is frustrated again, and he argues with the ref. Corbin goes after Elias on the ropes and drives more elbows into the bad shoulder. Elias flops against the ropes but Corbin brings him back up.
Corbin whips Elias corner to corner, but Elias reverses and POSTS Corbin! Now Corbin clutches a bad shoulder. Elias goes to the opposite corner and runs in to LARIAT Corbin down! Elias whips but Corbin reverses. Corbin catches Elias as he goes up, but Elias still mule kicks Corbin away. Elias stomps Corbin and throws fast hands! The ref backs Elias off but Elias is furious! Elias stomps Corbin more and more but backs off again. Just to come back for more! Elias drags Corbin up, dragon sleepers, swinging facebuster! Cover, TWO!! Elias keeps his cool and drags Corbin to a drop zone. Elias climbs up top, leaps, but has to bail out as Corbin moves. Corbin gets Elias for DEEP SIX! Cover, TWO!! Elias survives and both men back off to opposite corners.
Corbin sits up first but Elias slowly follows. Elias flounders on ropes but he gets to another corner. Corbin runs in but Elias dodges again. Corbin slides out then in but Elias dodges the lariat this time! Elias KNEES Corbin down! Cover, TWO! Elias drags Corbin around to stomp away on. He puts Corbin back in a drop zone but Corbin rolls away. Elias pursues but Corbin grabs the ropes. Elias tries to get Corbin up but Corbin throat chops! Corbin covers, using the ropes! The ref spots that and stops the count. Corbin argues but Elias rolls Corbin up! WITH TIGHTS! Elias wins!!
Winner: Elias, by pinfall
The King tried to cheat but he gets cheated right back! Will Elias have a song to tell the tale of this victory?
Raw Women’s Championship: Becky Lynch VS Shayna Baszler!
The Man has been on a roll for a year now, but she may have run into an obstacle she can’t overcome. The Queen of Spades eliminated every other woman in the Elimination Chamber, and looks to destroy one more target. Will Shayna extinguish the Straight Fire once and for all? Or has she bitten off more than she can chew?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and this grudge match finally happens!
Becky circles with Shayna and then they start throwing hands! It is fast and furious to say the least! Shayna kicks Becky’s leg, then gets around her for the Kirafuda! But Becky escapes before Shayna can clamp on tighter. Shayna pursues and kicks away on Bekcy’s leg. Becky hits back but Shayna CLUBS her down! Shayna bumps Becky off the apron then refreshes the count. Shayna stalks Becky, then dead lifts her! But Becky huricanranas free! Becky staggers over to bring Shayna up. She throws Shayna into the desk! Becky refreshes the count now to then throw Shayna into steel steps! Shayna writhes but Becky drags her back up. Becky puts Shayna in at 4 then climbs up top. Becky leaps to missile dropkick Shayna down!
Shayna flounders to the far corner but Becky runs in. Becky hits the forearm then stomps away! The ref counts but Becky won’t let up. The ref backs Becky off but she goes after SHayna with an uppercut and a back kick! Becky brings Shayna up but Shayna fights off the suplex. Becky elbows Shayna then jumps, but her kick is blocked! Shayna KNEES Becky down! Shayna stalks up behind Becky to bring her up in a butterfly. She gut wrenches but Becky slips out! Becky wants the arm, but Shayna clamps onto a shoulder. Becky sits down out of the clutch to victory roll, TWO! Shayna SPINE BUSTERS Becky down! Shayna drags Becky back up, butterfly to CUTTER! Cover, TWO!! Becky survives but Shayna isn’t done with her. Shayna waits for Becky to rise, and then runs in.
Becky dodges to clamp onto the arm! Shayna whips Becky to the apron. Becky KICKS Shayna back then drags her out to join her. The two start brawling on the apron’s edge! Becky says this is HER title, no one else’s! Shayna fires off hands and knees! Becky wobbles, but she catches Shayna for a SLAM onto the apron!! Becky pushes Shayna in to cover, TWO!! Shayna survives and Becky is at a loss for words. Becky thinks on what to do next, and she drags Shayna over to a corner. Becky climbs up top, but SHayna springs up to enziguri! Shayna THROWS Becky off the top! Shayna clamps on, butterfly to an ARMBAR! Becky flails, endures, and manages a grip. Becky moves to make it a cover, TWO! Shayna STEALS the Disarm-Her!!
Becky endures her own move, and rolls around to get up. But Shayna trips Becky to KNEE her point-blank! Cover, TWO!! Becky survives and Shayna grows frustrated. Becky goes to the apron but Shayna pursues. Shayna brings Becky up but Becky hotshots her away. Becky climbs up, DISARM-HER on the ropes! But Shayna shoves Becky up, KIRAFUDA in the ropes!! The ref counts, Shayna lets go at 4 and Becky flops to the floor! Becky crawls but Shayna is in pursuit again. Shayna kicks Becky down then grabs the legs. Shayna dead lifts and SWINGS Becky into the desk! She drops Becky to refresh the count, and now grins. Shayna drags Becky up and says, “Some hero.” She puts Becky in the ring but takes her time returning.
Shayna looms over Becky, but Becky grabs the arm! Becky tries to bring Shayna down but Shayna back suplexes her off. Becky lands on her feet, but Shayna spins her around, for the KIRAFUDA! Shayna keeps Becky from ropes and leans on her. Becky rolls back to a cover, and WINS!!
Winner: Becky Lynch, by pinfall (still Raw Women’s Champion)
Becky finds a way to survive Shayna! The savage Queen of Spades was perhaps outsmarted at the last moment. Will Shayna survive being shocked by Straight Fire?
WWE Intercontinental Championship: Sami Zayn w/ The Artist Collective VS Daniel Bryan w/ Drew Gulak!
Gulak helped the Yes Movement get this match, but he lost his own against Cesaro. Will Bryan make good on Gulak’s help by taking this title off “The Great Liberator?”
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and this showdown begins!
Well, it would begin but Sami takes his time talking things over with Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. Sami finally leaves his corner to circle with Bryan. Sami backs away into the corner again, then hops out of the ring. He says Bryan is crowding him but Bryan gives Sami plenty of space. Sami gets in and the two circle. But then Sami bails back out, just to annoy Bryan. Bryan keeps his cool but Sami lets the ring count climb. Sami slowly gets in at 8, but then jumps right back out! Bryan pursues and chases Sami, but Cesaro stands in the way. Sami gets back in the ring and Bryan heads that way, but again Sami bails out. Now Shinsuke stands in Bryan’s way. Sami slides back in with a cocky grin, but Bryan slides in. Bryan slowly approaches, Sami stumbles and Bryan almost gets him!
But now both Cesaro and Shinsuke stand in the way. So Gulak LEAPS Onto them both! Gulak and Cesaro brawl, and Gulak throws Cesaro over barriers! Gulak dodges Nakamura to clothesline him over, too! Sami sneaks up on Gulak but Gulak sees him coming. Bryan says Gulak can stand down, and let Sami go. Sami wants a count out, so just let him. So are they coming to their senses? Sami says this is Bryan’s best decision. But then Bryan goes out and TACKLES Sami at the ramp! Bryan punches Sami then puts him in the ring! Bryan has Sami all alone but Sami begs for forgiveness. No go as Bryan gets the legs! Sami keeps pleading but Bryan punches and clubs Sami over and over. Bryan keeps Sami down with knee after knee!
Sami flounders up but Bryan drags him from the ropes. Bryan has the leg and just toys with Sami now. Bryan kicks Sami hard in the leg, and the back, and then grounds ‘n’ pounds more. Sami gets away again but Bryan builds speed to DIVE! Direct hit sends both men into barriers! Bryan is up to kick Sami over and over! Bryan puts Sami in then climbs up top. Sami stands but Bryan leaps to missile dropkick him down! Bryan kips up and he has Sami’s legs again. Bryan laces the legs and pulls on Sami’s nose! The ref reprimands but Bryan crossface forearms Sami over and over and over! Bryan bumps Sami off buckles then SLAPS him! That’s for thinking Gulak’s a nobody! The kicks are because Sami hasn’t earned the title! Bryan hits a corner to corner dropkick!
Sami flounders about but Bryan brings him back up. Bryan knees Sami over and over! Sami tries to run away again but Bryan is after him. Sami elbows Bryan back and unloads haymakers of his own! He whips and LARIATS Bryan down! Sami is still stinging from everything Bryan did, but now he laughs because he’s in control. Sami SLAPS Bryan now! But Bryan just gets stronger! Sami CHOPS Bryan, and CHOPS! Bryan fires up as Sami whips, and he comes back with a LEAPING LARIAT! Bryan gives Sami YES and NO Kicks! Kicks from all sides hit Sami over and over! And the BUZZSAW! Sami is in a daze but Bryan isn’t done with him. Bryan has the arms and DANIELSON STOMPS! He stomps and stomps and stomps!
Gulak says Bryan can finish Sami now by going up top. But Cesaro and Nakamura go after Gulak and throw him into steps! Bryan DIVES and takes them both out! Bryan hurries to do as Gulak said, and goes up top. Sami BOOTS Bryan out of the air! Cover, Sami wins!!
Winner: Sami Zayn, by pinfall (still WWE Intercontinental Champion)
The Artist Collective saves their Great Liberator! Sami wasn’t untouchable, but he did deny the inevitable. Is it undeniable that this trio will keep this title no matter who they’re up against?
SmackDown Tag Team Championships Triple Threat Ladder Match: John Morrison VS Kofi Kingston VS Jimmy Uso!
This was meant to be a tag team triple threat, but The Miz is not able to compete tonight. But as the show must go one, the WWE felt it was fairer to the champions to bring this down to a normal Triple Threat. Will #JohnnyDripDrip still hold onto the belts for him and the A-Lister? Or will a new reign begin for another great tag team of the 21st century?
The bell rings and each man watches the other two closely. Jimmy aims at Morrison but Morrison dodges the superkick. Morrison kicks but Jimmy dodges that. Jimmy waistlocks but both men avoid Kofi’s double stomps. Jimmy flips Kofi but he lands on his feet. Kofi flips Morrison but he lands on his feet. The three stand off and start again. Jimmy bails out but Kofi and Morrison follow. They each get a ladder and bring it into the ring. All three men stand up ladders, with Morrison having drawn the short straw. Jimmy and Kofi go up their much taller ladders and go after Morrison. Kofi reaches for the belts but Jimmy CHOPS him Jimmy CHOPS Morrison but Kofi and Morrison hit back. Morrison kicks Jimmy’s ladder over! Jimmy falls down hard and Morrison goes after Kofi.
Kofi fights Morrison off and Jimmy returns. Jimmy drags Morrison off his ladder, but then Kofi LEAPS onto Jimmy! Morrison gets up and goes up the taller ladder, only for Kofi to pursue. Kofi drags Morrison down and the two brawl. Morrison snapmares Kofi and runs to Shining Wizard! Jimmy adjusts a ladder but Morrison pushes it over. Morrison mule kicks and clubs Jimmy down. Morrison positions ladders around but Kofi goes after him with clubbing forearms. The two brawl and Morrison cranks the neck. Kofi sips out but no SOS or Trouble in Paradise. Kofi ducks the Flying Chuck but Jimmy climbs! Jimmy is up top but Kofi gets up to stop him!
Kofi clubs and headbutts Jimmy down! But Morrison hurries to stop Kofi! Morrison has an arm and ROCKS Kofi with a right. Morrison punches Kofi down, then pogo-sticks the ladder over. He reaches for the belts but Jimmy grabs at Morrison. Jimmy forces Morrison to come down, and ROCKS him with an uppercut! Jimmy gets the ladder in position but Morrison ROCKS Jimmy back. Question mark kick to mule kick! Jimmy CHOPS, and Kofi springboards! Kofi uses the ladder like a swing, but his huricanrana is blocked! Morrison and Jimmy both throw Kofi out! Jimmy kicks Morrison low then CHOPS him again. Jimmy goes back to the ladder but Morrison clubs him back. Morrison whips, Jimmy reverses, but Morrison slides under the bars!
Jimmy pushes the ladder over, but Morrison is safe in the gap! Morrison pokes Jimmy in the eyes! Morrison pushes the ladder and it SMASHES into Jimmy! With both opponents down, Morrison takes some time to prepare. Morrison puts one ladder in a corner, then grabs another to SMASH Jimmy’s legs! Jimmy writhes while Morrison moves ladders aside. Jimmy gets up to CHOP again! He ROCKS Morrison with an uppercut, then puts Morrison on the ropes. Jimmy bounces Morrison’s head off the ladder Morrison himself set up. Jimmy climbs up to join Morrison, but has to be careful on the ladder. Morrison hits him back and trips him up! Jimmy is stuck on the ladder, and Morrison stands on the post, for a PARKOUR CORKSCREW! Morrison wrecks Jimmy with that ladder!
Morrison stomps Jimmy out of the ring then goes to a ladder. The Guru of Greatness stands the ladder up right under the belts. Morrison climbs up, careful of the wobbling. Kofi SPRINGBOARDS and SUPER STEINERS Morrison down!! Morrison falls out of the ring but Jimmy slowly gets up. Kofi hobbles to the ladder and stands it up again. Kofi climbs but Jimmy hurries in. Jimmy gets a mule kick but gives an uppercut. Kofi whips Jimmy out and throws a big haymaker! Kofi sees Morrison and FLIES! They wipe out with the ladders! All three men are down but Kofi is up first. Kofi gets a ladder but Jimmy walks on the barriers. Kofi THROWS the ladder at Jimmy!! Jimmy goes down in a heap with the ladder but Kofi keeps on him.
Kofi kicks Jimmy down then drags a ladder up. Kofi makes a ladder bridge between barrier and ring. “I know you got fight, Uce.” He clubs Jimmy then brings him up. He bounces Jimmy off the ladder, then hoists him onto it. Kofi clubs away on Jimmy until Jimmy stays put. But Morrison is up top! Kofi hurries to trip Morrison up and club him down. Kofi gets space, climbs up top, but Morrison is also up again. Morrison tightrope walks all the way to Kofi! And then uses a SUPER SPANISH FLY to wreck Kofi in the ring! But Jimmy USO SPLASHES down on Morrison!! All three men are down but those titles are still above their heads! Jimmy forces himself to bring a ladder up. He positions it under the belts and wills himself up the rungs.
Kofi crawls over and anchors Jimmy, but Jimmy kicks him away. Jimmy climbs but Kofi pursues. Kofi climbs over Jimmy and grabs at his hair. Jimmy punches Kofi back and Kofi flops to the floor. Jimmy climbs back up, but Kofi comes up from under! Kofi kicks and punches from the inside of the ladder, and then smashes Jimmy’s head on a rung! Jimmy falls down and Kofi moves around to the outside of the ladder. Kofi grabs at the belts but Morrison is there! Morrison punches Kofi but Kofi hits back. Kofi headbutts Morrison down and heads back up! But Morrison comes back around to grab his feet. Kofi leaps for DOUBLE STOMPS!! Everyone is down again, and the ladder tips over!
Kofi hurries to get the ladder back up, but Jimmy is bringing another ladder in. Kofi kicks Morrison out but Jimmy pushes the ladder in! It ends up another bridge as Kofi fights with Morrison. Kofi knocks Jimmy off the apron and then climbs. Kofi jumps off the bridge but into Jimmy’s kick! Jimmy SMASHES Kofi into ladder! Jimmy talks trash but Morrison is lurking. Morrison goes over and Jimmy goes under! Morrison goes up again but Jimmy SUPERKICKS! Jimmy has Morrison on the ladder bridge, and then brings a third ladder into play. Jimmy stands the ladder up in a corner as he climbs. He is at the very top, but Morrison gets up! Morrison pushes this ladder over and Jimmy FALLS TO THE FLOOR!!
Morrison has an opening and he tosses ladders out of the way. He heads up the rungs and grabs at the belts, but Kofi is back! Kofi climbs up as Morrison fiddles with the hook. Kofi CLUBS Morrison and then headbutts him. Morrison kicks and ROCKS Kofi, but Jimmy returns?! Jimmy has another ladder side by side with the main one. He climbs as the other two brawl. Jimmy CHOPS and headbutts! Kofi gives them back! Morrison uses both ladders for balance, and all three men are grabbing at the belts! They all unhook it, but now it’s about who keeps hold! They keep brawling, and a DOUBLE HEADBUTT sends Morrison down! BUT WITH THE BELTS!!! The belts came off the hanger, Morrison wins!!!
Winner: John Morrison (Miz & Morrison are still SmackDown Tag Team Champions)
A unique 1v1v1 match for tag titles, and an incredibly unique way of winning! If Morrison can win even in this situation, will he and The Miz ever stop being THE Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century?
Seth Rollins VS Kevin Owens!
The Monday Night Messiah vows to bring Raw and all of the WWE into the future, but under his leadership and vision. But the Prizefighter will not let Rollins mistake his obnoxious tirades as greatness. Will Rollins end Kevin and the Resistance? Or will Kevin finally have a WrestleMania Moment to be proud of?
The bell rings and Rollins gives Kevin a chance to end this peacefully. Kevin refuses and rushes Rollins, but Rollins goes to the ropes for defense. The ref brings Kevin back and Rollins sucker punches! Rollins throws more hands but Kevin hits back. Rollins runs away, but Kevin pursues. They brawl outside the ring and Kevin backs Rollins down. Kevin throws Rollins into barriers but Rollins uses Kevin’s shirt to bring him into a knee. Rollins goes to the ring but Kevin avoids getting a Curb Stomp! Kevin knocks Rollins down then CHOPS him to a corner. Kevin throws more hands but the ref backs Kevin off. Rollins gets up but Kevin whips him. Rollins kicks Kevin but Kevin LARIATS back! And drops a senton! Kevin taunts Rollins, “How did that feel?” Then he gives Rollins another senton!
Rollins is in a corner but bails out before the cannonball. Kevin pursues again and CHOPS Rollins more! Kevin brings Rollins over to throw into barriers! He drags Rollins up to throw into more barriers around the way! Kevin refreshes the count to go after Rollins again. Kevin stomps Rollins then puts him in the ring. Rollins rolls out but Kevin meets him around the way. Kevin drags Rollins up and around, but Rollins resists the lift. Rollins back drops Kevin onto the apron! Kevin writhes but Rollins seethes. Rollins drags Kevin up, for an APRON FALCON ARROW! Kevin falls to the floor and sputters for air. Rollins taunts Kevin now as Kevin slowly stands. Rollins builds speed and DIVES! Direct hit sends Kevin into barriers! Rollins asks if Kevin sees the mistake he made. “I become a GOD!”
Kevin stands again, but Rollins DIVES again! Another direct hit! Rollins is laughing now because “You’re making this too easy, Kevin.” Rollins goes back into the ring, taunting Kevin that he’s a disappointment to his kids. Kevin stands, Rollins runs, but Kevin ROCKS Rollins first! But Rollins returns with a SLINGBLADE! Rollins rains down fists from all sides then kicks Kevin all around. Rollins taunts Kevin with his own words about being the one to #BurnItDown. Kevin stands, Rollins back kicks and runs. But no stomp as Kevin dodges! Kevin rolls Rollins, dodges another stomp, and hits a SPIKING DDT! Both men are down now but going to opposite corners. Rollins spots Kevin and runs in, but Kevin dodges! And SUPERKICKS back! Kevin hits the CANNONBALL! Kevin heads up top fast, for the SWANTON BOMB! Cover, TWO!!
Rollins survives but is still in bad shape. Kevin stands and keeps Rollins from leaving. Kevin throws haymakers and whips, but Rollins slips out of the pop-up! Rollins kicks, Kevin duck sand rolls him. Rollins slips out and tries again, but Kevin kicks back! No Stunner, Rollins hits a PELE! But Kevin rebounds to LARIAT! Both men are down again but stirring. Kevin is up first but Rollins goes to the apron. Kevin grabs Rollins and brings him up at the corner. They go up to the top rope, but Rollins fights back Kevin clubs Rollins but Rollins resists the superplex. Rollins claws Kevin’s eyes! And then sunset flips! For the BUCKLE BOMB! Rollins SUPERKICKS, and SUPERKICKS! Rollins runs, into a POP-UP BOMB!! Cover, TWO!!
Rollins survives and Kevin can’t believe it! Kevin drags himself up on the ropes while Rollins crawls to the apron. Kevin heads over but Rollins runs! Rollins makes it to the timekeeper’s area but Kevin catches him! Rollins elbows Kevin away and then uses the RING BELL!!
Winner: Kevin Owens, by disqualification
The irony is that the bell couldn’t ring until Rollins gave it back. Kevin wins the battle because Rollins is focused on the war. “That’s your WrestleMania Moment, huh?” It isn’t a failure, but it isn’t what Kevin wants. Kevin grabs a mic to shout at Rollins before he leaves. “You don’t get to end this this way.” Kevin thought Rollins said he was a wrestling god. But that was the act of a wrestling BI*CH! If Rollins is a man, then prove it! They need to finish this! NO DISQUALIFICATIONS! Rollins accepts the challenge! Will Kevin redeem himself in this instant rematch?
No Disqualifications: Seth Rollins VS Kevin Owens!
The bell rings again and Rollins KNEES Kevin down! Rollins slaps Kevin around as he shouts, “When are you going to figure it out?!” Rollins drags Kevin up to throw him out of the ring. He goes out to throw Kevin into barriers! He keeps on Kevin with furious fists and kicks against the barriers! Rollins throws Kevin into barriers at the timekeeper’s area! “I can do whatever I want!” So Rollins grabs steel steps. Rollins aims at Kevin, and RAMS him down! Rollins taunts Kevin and kicks him all around. He takes the timekeeper’s chair and stalks Kevin. Kevin rises but Rollins SMACKS him on the back! And then on the arm! And on the back again! Rollins tells this is why Kevin should just shut his mouth.
The ref tells Rollins to finish this in the ring but Rollins says he can do whatever he wants. Rollins clears off the announce desk and brings Kevin up. But now Kevin uses the ring bell!! And AGAIN! Kevin has Rollins on the announce desk and hurries around… Behind the set? Kevin climbs the WrestleMania sign!! Kevin aims at Rollins on the desk, for a SUPER SENTON THROUGH THE TABLE!!! Both men writhe and referees hurry out to check. Rollins moans and gasps in pain but somehow Kevin stands up! Kevin won’t let it end here, he drags Rollins up out of the wreckage. He puts Rollins in the ring, then drags him up by his hair. Rollins begs for mercy, but he gets a STUNNER instead! Cover, Kevin wins!!
Winner: Kevin Owens, by pinfall
Now THAT is a WrestleMania Moment to be proud of! Kevin risked his own body to take down the ego-maniacal Rollins! Will this end the war for Raw’s soul?
R-Truth joins Gronk and Mojo on the balcony.
The “WWE 24/7 48-7 7/11 I-95 South North European Television Champion” introduces himself. This title is bittersweet. He can’t go to picnics, church or cook outs. He got the baby back but he doesn’t want to lose it. Can Gronk and Mojo help? Gronk DECKS and covers Truth but Mojo drags him off it! Mojo covers Truth, and wins!!
Winner: Mojo Rawley, by pinfall (NEW WWE 24/7 Champion)
Get hype again as The One True Champion is back on top! Mojo heads out and dares his buddy, Gronk, to come for it.
Backstage interview with Paul Heyman.
Well, Heyman introduces himself and it spooks Charly Caruso. But the one that should be afraid is Drew McIntyre. We are 24 hours away from seeing that McIntyre is just a poser. Heyman said it on Raw, and knows that with all the marketing exaggerations, it seems he has failed to tell the world how unique Lesnar is. Lesnar isn’t just one amongst us, he is a unique being. McIntyre learns in 24 hours that there is nothing he can do other than dream, and crawl out of the ring a victim. Conquered not by a man, a mere mortal, but by a being unlike any other. The reigning, defending, undisputed WWE Heavyweight Champion of the World… Brock. Lesnar.
WWE Universal Championship: Goldberg VS Braun Strowman!
The Big Dog could not compete so now The Monster Among Men steps to the living legend! Will Strowman finally #GetTheseHands on a world championship? Or is he just #WhosNext to lose to GOLD~BERG~?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and this new yet equally epic encounter begins!
Goldberg and Strowman circle, then stare down. Strowman says Goldberg doesn’t have what it takes to stop him. Goldberg kicks low and whips Strowman to a corner. Strowman dodges and Goldberg avoids buckles. Strowman scoops but Goldberg slips out to SPEAR!! But Strowman is right up! So Goldberg SPEARS him again! Strowman is up again, but gets a THIRD SPEAR!! Cover, TWO!?!? Strowman survives three, but will he survive more? Goldberg takes aim and runs in, for a FOURTH SPEAR!! Goldberg is fired up but he needs to keep on Strowman. He wants to suplex but Strowman counters with a MONSTER SLAM! And another MONSTER SLAM! And then a THIRD MONSTER SLAM!! Now the tables have turned, and Strowman dares Goldberg to get up. Strowman brings Goldberg up, scoops, and hits the FOURTH MONSTER SLAM!! Cover, STROWMAN WINS!!!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by pinfall (NEW WWE Universal Champion)
The Triple Crown Monster is born!! Strowman is finally a world champion after surviving and conquering the Hall of Famer! What does this mean for the WWE now?
Boneyard Match: AJ Styles VS The Undertaker!
The Phenomenal One couldn’t stand that the Phenom made sure he didn’t win accolades unfairly. But then he made it personal by badmouthing Taker’s legacy, and Taker’s wife, Michelle McCool. Styles wants the Dead Man of old so that he can be the one to finally end him. Will this first-ever Boneyard Match be what does it?
Cameras take us to a cemetery in an undisclosed location. A hearse pulls up as Taker’s theme plays. Hooded figures bring a casket out of the back. The casket opens, but it isn’t Taker, but AJ Styles! Styles laughs as he hops out and looks around. “This don’t look scary at all!” Styles dares Taker to show himself. “I’m ready!” And pulling up on a motorcycle with Metallica blaring, it’s Big Evil! The American Badass drives into the Boneyard! Styles is surprised Taker came. Does Michelle know he’s up this late? A grave has been dug for Taker, but he says that’s for Styles. Taker steps to Styles, but Styles grabs a brick! Taker DECKS Styles first and dares Styles to get back up. Styles wanted this, now he’s going to get it! Taker decks Styles again then brings him to the grave.
Styles gets away but Taker pursues. Taker turns “Allen” around to DECK him again! Taker throws Styles into the casket lid! “It’s all fun, right?” He bounces Styles off the lid! And again! Styles crawls but Taker grabs a big spike! Taker goes after Styles but Styles moves! The hearse’s window smashes and cuts Taker’s arm. Taker isn’t scared, he’s just upset. Taker keeps Styles from crawling away but Styles kicks back! The two brawl and Taker throws Styles over the hood ONTO the windshield! The glass cracks and Taker wonders if Styles still wants some. Styles crawls up and over the top so Taker pursues. Taker brings Styles up but Styles punches back! Taker DECKS Styles again! He grounds ‘n’ pounds Styles over and over on the roof of the car. Taker tells Styles to never talk bad about his wife again!
Styles flops off the side of the car and Taker asks if he wants more. Taker stalks Styles but Styles hits back! Styles has Taker wobbling and he LOW BLOWS him! No Disqualifications in the Boneyard! Styles drags Taker over to the grave. Styles punches Taker over and over but Taker stays up. “Just fall already.” But Taker ROCKS Styles back! Taker hauls Styles up to punch him into the grave! “How does that feel down there?” But here come the Good Brothers! The OC says this is just getting started. Taker heads over, but then lights turn on. And from the light, hooded figures emerge and surround Taker! Taker watches them closely, and a huge brawl breaks out!
Taker fights off the mysterious minions but then Gallows and Anderson attack! They beat Taker down on the ground and stomp him around. Gallows drags Taker up and Anderson has a shovel stick. Taker fights free and boots Anderson down! He decks Gallows, then Anderson. Taker takes the shovel stick to CLOBBER Anderson! And then CLUB Gallows! But Styles returns and SMASHES Taker with a cinder block! “You ain’t got what it takes, old man!” Styles clubs Taker back down and talks more trash about Michelle. He rains down hands but ends up jamming his own fingers. Styles fixes his hand and blames Taker for that. Taker gasps and sputters as Styles tells him to stay down. Taker refuses and sits up. Styles tells him to quit and retire already, or he’s going to bury him. Taker stands and Styles RAMS him THROUGH THE FENCE!
Styles crawls from the wreckage while Taker continues to gasp. “You just don’t have it anymore, old man.” Taker slowly gets up but Styles is standing. Taker flips Styles off and eggs him on! So Styles throws down more fists! Styles says the “American Badass” just looks like some “broken down old bi*ch.” Styles grabs a shovel with a head on it, and says he is doing the WWE Universe a favor. Taker crawls and Styles BREAKS the shovel across his back! Taker falls into the grave! Styles sprinkles dirt as he says, “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.” Styles goes to the tractor and starts it up. But wait! Is that…?! Taker magically appears behind him!! Taker punches Styles again and again! Styles flounders off the tractor and Taker kicks him around.
Styles heads for a ladder. Taker pursues Styles as he’s on the roof. Styles backs away, but PILLARS OF FIRE keep him from running! Taker BOOTS Styles down! Then he punches the OC away! Taker throws Gallows off the roof! And he scoops Anderson for a TOMBSTONE! That’s a tin roof, too! Now it’s just Taker and Styles. Styles doesn’t understand how Taker is doing this. Styles throws hands but Taker just eggs him on. Taker then choke grips Styles, for a CHOKE SLAM OFF THE ROOF!! Taker climbs down the ladder and stalks over to Styles. Styles stirs in the wreckage of the fence. Taker asks if Styles remembers his wife’s name. Taker wants Styles to stay awake, because they’ve still got plenty to do. He drags Styles from the wood wreckage and scoops him.
Taker carries Styles over to the grave and drops him just outside. Styles apologizes but Taker wants him to be specific. Taker drags Styles up and says he put up a hell of a fight. Styles doesn’t want to be buried, but Taker says he isn’t going to do that. They hug it out and Taker commends Styles for bringing the fight. Taker pats Styles on the head, then BOOTS him into the grave! Taker goes to the tractor, starts it up again, and DUMPS DIRT INTO THE GRAVE! And in the end, the head stone reads… AJ STYLES! Styles is left behind in a shallow grave as Taker gets back on his motorcycle. And with a raise of his fist, fire shoots from the barn! Taker’s symbol glows in the sky as he heads out into the night, for this is not his last ride.
Winner: The Undertaker
My Thoughts:
Wow, I must say, I really liked a lot of what WWE did tonight. I wasn’t really sure the point of a kickoff match but Cesaro and Gulak gave us really good stuff. And WWE actually changed the way the math usually works. I thought Cesaro winning meant Gulak would help Bryan win, but nope. The Artist Collective worked together and Sami Zayn is still champion. If anything, that’s the better outcome so the trio can be taken seriously. There’s concern of Daniel Bryan’s contract, but I hope this loss doesn’t mean he’s leaving. Likewise, I hope the Kabuki Warriors losing does NOT mean Kairi Sane is leaving. It felt like the Kabuki Warriors finally got going before this pandemic. Hopefully Kairi is given reason to stay so that she and Asuka can be even greater once the pandemic is over.
Elias VS Corbin was alright, but barely better than what you’d expect from a TV match. It might just be the limitations of both guys as exciting performers. But at least Elias won. I was surprised by the Raw Women’s Championship in how Becky one with the roll up counter. Shayna going through crisis of confidence might be an interesting move, as she’s always been succeeding. I’m sure she’ll get a second shot because who else is there for Becky to face? The SmackDown Tag Team Championship Ladder Match was still amazing, even with having to cut the numbers in half. That ending was brilliant, too. I’m not sure if I’ve ever seen a ladder match won by a miraculous move like that. I’m really intrigued to see where those titles go next.
The complete Rollins VS Kevin segment was great stuff. Rollins ending the first match with a DQ was a very TV move in the moment, but I am so glad we got that No DQ match right after. And I’m not sure if we would’ve gotten that super senton spot the same way if this was in the Tampa Bay arena. Maybe it would’ve been off the pirate ship stage set we all expected, but it was still amazing this way. And Kevin technically beat Rollins twice in one night, so that could add to the story. And then, what’s not to love about the last three matches? Getting the 24/7 Championship in on this was great, and I hope we get the rematch tomorrow. I am SO pumped that they gave Strowman the win, he finally gets a world title like he deserved a year or more ago.
And then, the Boneyard match. That was perfectly done with such great cinematic presentation. Taker being more American Badass was pretty good, even though he still has his powers to teleport and summon fire. I almost thought Styles was going to win, with Taker buried but with the shovel head so he could dig himself out. But in the end, it’s very fitting that Taker wins. Taker’s own WWE Network special airs tomorrow after Night 2, and they titled it “The Last Ride,” but if he were to do more cinematic matches, maybe he could last another couple years. I’m sure there will also be some kind of video where The OC dig Styles out so that he isn’t buried alive or anything, but this should do something to affect Styles’ confidence for a little bit.
My Score: 8.5/10
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!
Golden tickets make for great stocking stuffers!
With Nathan Frazer & Axiom still NXT Tag Team Champions, they need new contenders for New Year’s Evil! Who wins a Fatal 4 Way to head for LA?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Stephanie Vaquer VS Cora Jade; wins.
- Jacy Jayne & Jazmyn Nyx w/ Fallon Henley VS Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn; win.
- NXT Heritage Cup Championship: Charlie Dempsey w/ No Quarter Catch Crew VS Lexis King; wins and
- NXT Tag Team Championships #1 Contenders Christmas Chaos Fatal 4 Way: Myles Borne & Tavion Heights VS Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo & Luca Crusifino VS OTM VS Hank ‘n’ Tank; win(s) and will challenge Nathan Frazer & Axiom for the titles.
PLAY BY PLAY
[Due to scheduling conflicts, coverage will be on delay]
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!
The Hollywood A-Lister’s got his own nightmare before Christmas!
Christmas is just a few days away, but things aren’t merry and bright for Raw! The Miz must face his fears as he faces Dexter Lumis 1v1!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament Opening Round Triple Threat: Natalya VS Alba Fyre VS Iyo Sky; Iyo wins and advances to the next round.
- Chad Gable w/ Team American Made VS Akira Tozawa w/ The Alpha Academy; Gable wins.
- Dominik Mysterio VS Damian Priest; Damian Priest wins, by disqualification.
- The Miz VS Dexter Lumis; Lumis wins, by disqualification.
- Sami Zayn VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Drew McIntyre walks to gorilla.
The Scottish Terminator makes his way through the curtain and to the stage, and the fans have a mixed reaction as he goes to the ring. McIntyre grabs a mic, and he says, “After Hell in a Cell, I’ve never been so beat up in my entire life. 16 staples in my head, my back almost broken from landing on the steel steps. And I went home to Scotland. The reason I went home, and I haven’t really talked about it publicly, is because a very close family member passed away. Some people probably feeling sympathy right now. Some guys in the back are probably talking to each other, saying, ‘I didn’t know.’ Maybe if you cared enough, you would’ve asked.
“Over these past two months, guess how many people phoned me to check. Not how I was doing mentally but how I was doing physically after Hell in a Cell. ONE PERSON! These past 17 years, I’ve been led to believe we’re all a big happy family in the back. We’re brothers and sisters, we travel the world together, we spend more time with each other than with our actual families, but it’s all BS! My brother, John, in Scotland wouldn’t stab me in the back to take my spot, but people like Jimmy, Jey and Sami 100% would.” The fans boo that, then chant “YEET! YEET! YEET!” McIntyre says that proves his point.
After watching everything The Bloodline did, Jey says he is a changed man. He does a cute hand sign, he says a made-up word, and the fans just forget about it and move on. That’s the other thing McIntyre realized: He has given and given and given all this time, and the fans turned on him for a guy who was gone for years and has told the WWE fans to go screw themselves! McIntyre was fighting for the fans, he thought they believed in him, so he believed in the fans! McIntyre bled out in the cell, and while he was gone, the fans instantly forgot him! The fans boo, that’s not true! But McIntyre says from now on, he gives no more for anybody!
McIntyre will take and take and he will tell the truth! The real villains are Roman Reigns and CM Punk! And if you choose to prop them up, as he already said, Jey, Jimmy & Sami, the things Roman did to you… Roman took a vacation, then simply snapped his fingers and they were by his side again! McIntyre suggests everyone who ever wronged McIntyre should sleep with one eye open. But wait, here comes Sami Zayn! The fans cheer and sing for Sami but Sami says hey, McIntyre is angry, he doesn’t have to believe Sami in place of believing everyone has ulterior motives. Sami doesn’t blame him.
But personally, man to man, Sami did not know what happened with McIntyre’s family. They figured he was recovering from one of the most vicious matches of all time. Sami thought that, all the guys ‘n’ girls in the back thought, and that’s all the fans thought. Believe that or not, fine, but Sami wants to level with McIntyre. Talk about 17 years, Sami has 22 years in this game. Sami’s been through what McIntyre’s been through. Sami’s had losses. Trust him. He has had losses he had to put on the side and go to work that week. The same sacrifices, from birthdays to weddings to funerals that he should’ve been at? Sami’s done it all.
Sami has put unnecessary stress on his wife, on his kid, and why? Because this is the life that they both chose! They are WWE SUPERSTARS! The fans cheer that! And as such, they are LUCKY to be WWE Superstars! And you think this is just your story or Sami’s story? Y’know who else has stories like this? Every single person sitting in the stands. Every single person at home! The kids who struggle at school, the adults who struggle at work, who struggle economically, physically, and they have their losses and sacrifices, but they still get up every day to do what they gotta do to soldier on, without pointing a finger at everyone else!
The fans fire up for that passion. Sami says McIntyre dares pointing a finger at the fans for forgetting him?! They didn’t forget, brother! They MADE McIntyre! And McIntyre still thinks the world revolves around him just because once upon a time, someone told him he was “The Chosen One.” But newsflash, just because you’re mad doesn’t make you special. And now McIntyre thinks everyone else is somehow tied to him? What Jimmy does has nothing to do with McIntyre. What Jey does has nothing to do with McIntyre! What SAMI does has nothing to do with McIntyre!
But McIntyre, if you want to still walk around all angry and pointing fingers at the fans, at Sami, at Jey, at Jimmy, at Punk, at Roman, and still be mad about The Bloodline, fine. No one is stopping McIntyre. But Sami has no problem being McIntyre’s problem and facing him in this ring right now! McIntyre says if Sami wants to know the truth… IT isn’t just anger. McIntyre’s anger comes from pain, and he doesn’t doubt what Sami just said. There was so much truth and passion, but it’s never the whole truth, is it? Sami has a way of spinning things. Because Sami can fly back home every week to his family. McIntyre is halfway across the world from his!
And no one here in Boston ever leaves Boston, they’re with their families 24/7! McIntyre doesn’t have that luxury! The fans boo that veiled insult, but McIntyre says he will remain calm and ask Sami why he wants this fight. They both know the result, we saw it time and time again, Sami has NEVER beaten McIntyre. So McIntyre suggests, given Sami isn’t 100%, and Sami’s wife and kid are here tonight… Sami should just walk back there, take their hands, and leave this arena. Of all those in the Bloodline, Sami is the least of McIntyre’s worries.
Sami says McIntyre is right about a couple things. When it comes to win-loss records, McIntyre has Sami’s number. And Sami is not 100%. Haven’t been since Saturday Night’s Main Event. And yes, the smart thing would be to just go home, celebrate and get healthy over the holidays. But Sami would so much rather do this. Sami fires hands! The fans fire up but McIntyre shoves Sami away. McIntyre swings, but gets caught! Sami lifts but McIntyre fights free, then GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTT! McIntyre takes aim, but here comes JEY USO! The fans fire up as Jey runs down the ramp, slides in, and then dodges McIntyre to SUPERKICK!
The fans fire up as Jey & Sami DOUBLE LARIAT McIntyre up and outta the ring! The fans “YEET! YEET! YEET!” with Jey & Sami Uso! Will the Scottish Terminator’s mission be ended when Sami and/or Jey shut him down?
Adam Pearce is met by Pure Fusion Collective.
The Raw General Manager asks Sonya Deville what he can do for her and she says not much. She knows how stressful this job can be since she once had it. She’s just here to make things easier. And how’s that? Well, Kairi Sane is not cleared to compete, there is an opening in the tournament, and Sonya wants it. Oh, is that so? Y’know, Sonya, that is a terrible idea. They caused this scenario so he’s just gonna reward them? Are they outta their minds? And zip it! Plus, he already filled that vacancy with Iyo Sky. Happy Holidays! PFC is upset by that since Iyo just lost to Liv Morgan, but will there be nothing to stop the Evil Genius now?
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship Tournament Opening Round Triple Threat: Natalya VS Alba Fyre VS Iyo Sky!
Just as Pearce said, PFC taking out the Pirate Princess will not mean they get away with murder! The Queen of Harts and the Fire Keeper must now figure out how to handle this change to the program. Will Iyo redeem herself for losing Saturday Night’s Main Event by moving on to the next round?
Raw returns and Alba makes her entrance, Isla Dawn seeing her to the ramp, and then Natalya makes her entrance. The bell rings and Alba kicks Natty then ELBOWS Iyo! Alba whips but Natty reverses and Alba tumbles out of the ring! Iyo rolls Natty, TWO! Iyo whips, Natty dodges in the corner and gets Iyo up! REBOUND SIT-DOWN, and then Natty steps on Iyo, only for Alba to trip Natty up! Alba brings Natty out to send into steel steps! But then Iyo DIVES onto Alba! The fans fire up with Iyo and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Natty brawls with Abla. Alba knees low, but Iyo CROSBODIES them both down! The fans fire up and Iyo SHOTEIS Alba! And SHOTEIS her again! And then DROPKICKS her down! Iyo brings Alba around, whips, but Alba reverses. Iyo goes up and out, then blocks a shot to ROCK Alba! The fans fire up, Iyo spirnboards, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Iyo handsprings up and the fans fire up again! Iyo gets the fans going, but Alba wrenches and facelocks, TORNADO DDT! Alba gets Iyo up again to GOURD BUSTER her onto Natty! Alba then rearranges them into the drop zone!
Alba goes up, the fans are torn, but Alba grins as she SWANTON BOMBS! Cover on Iyo, TWO! Cover on Natty, TWO! But into a KOJI KLUTCH! Natty endures, flails, fights around, but Alba holds on tight! Natty pushes, stacks Alba, TWO!! Natty has the legs! Alba flails now, but Iyo runs up! Natty trips Iyo onto Alba, and she has them both! Natty turns them both over, DOUBLE SHARPSHOOTER!! Iyo and Alba both flail, both claw at the mat, and Alba gets the ROPEBREAK! No disqualifications so Natty can hold on! But now Iyo drags herself under the ropes, and there’s no room left, so Natty has to let go!
Natty rises up and she stalks Iyo to the apron. Natty drags Iyo up but Iyo HOTSHOTS Natty! Natty staggers, rebounds, but Iyo jumps the baseball slide! Natty hits Alba down, and then Iyo PENALTY KICKS Natty! Iyo fires up and springboards, ASAI MOONSAULT! Direct hit on both targets and the fans fire up! Iyo hurries to get Natty up and into the ring, then she drags Natty into the drop zone. Iyo climbs, but Alba CLUBS Iyo first! Alba snarls as she climbs up, but Iyo holds onto ropes! Natty CLUBS Alba and she adds on! SUPER GERMAN SUPLEX on Alba! But Iyo stays up top to go OVER THE MOONSAULT! Cover, Iyo wins!
Winner: Iyo Sky, by pinfall (advances to the semifinals)
The Genius of the Sky moves on, ready to fly against The Morrigan! Will Iyo be able to get past Lyra Valkyria and head for the title?
Judgment Day sulks in the clubhouse.
Finn Balor tells JD McDonagh that he can’t believe this. This was supposed to be a Merry Christmas, Finn was supposed to be celebrating with two titles, and now he has none! Liv Morgan tells Raquel Rodriguez to tell Finn that the reason she suggested he stay away from Damian Priest is because she knew this would happen. Raquel starts to relay the message, but Finn has JD tell Liv that she’s got her own problems to worry about and to stay off his back. But then Liv tells Raquel to tell Finn that the reason she’s “on his back” is because he lost the tag titles. JD, tell Liv that Christmas is-
Dominik speaks up to stop the arguing. Christmas IS around the corner, and now they’re not even talking to each other? Dom says he’s gonna go talk with Pearce and get a match with Priest! Dom’s gonna step up for this family. Oh, Dom thinks he’s better than Finn? No, it’s not even like that. Dom has a plan. He’ll talk with Pearce then fill everyone in later. Dom heads out, JD prays for one week of no drama while it’s Christmas. Will Dirty Dom make sure The Punisher pays for screwing Finn & JD over? Or will Priest be given the gift of sending Dom South of Heaven?
Sami and Jey regroup backstage.
Sami can’t believe Jey didn’t text or call about the comeback. Jey says, “My bad.” But Sami says it’s fine, he’s happy Jey is back. And thanks for having his back out there tonight and every night, Sami appreciates Jey. Jey thanks Sami for that, and says you know he had to come back for payback. Jey is gonna handle business! Actually, Sami was kinda hoping he could handle McIntyre. Sami talked a big game, he’s gotta back it up. But Sami, you’re not even 100% tonight. Sami knows, but he started something so he has to finish it. Jey says alright. He’s got next! They secret handshake and Jey wishes Sami luck. Will Sami finally get a win on McIntyre in a Christmas miracle?
Chad Gable w/ Team American Made VS Akira Tozawa w/ The Alpha Academy!
As “Master” Gable said last week, it was about time he settled things with his past. Will Gable prove to the world that he was always the reason the Alpha Academy was relevant? Or will he find out he can’t keep up with the Stamina Monster?
Raw returns and the #AlphaBabes make their entrance, showing off that new merch while they’re at it. The bell rings and the fans rally up. Tozawa and Gable tie up, Gable wrenches and talks trash right to Tozawa’s face! Gable CHOPS Tozawa down, stands him up, CHOPS him down again, repeat! Gable whips and CLOBBERS Tozawa, then raises the fist. The fans boo more but Gable talks smack on Otis. Gable drags Tozawa up, suplexes, but Tozawa slips free! Tozawa SOBATS, spins, slides under, and SPIN KCIKS! Gable goes to a corner and Tozawa puts him up! But Gable gets Tozawa for a HANGING ARMBAR!
Otis protests, the ref counts, and Gable lets off at 4. Gable says he didn’t break a rule, and Otis never learns. Gable SLAPS Otis, slides into the ring, but Tozawa victory rolls! TWO, but Tozawa SUPERKICKS Gable down! Tozawa rips the shirt off, goes up top, and SUPER SENTRONS onto knees! Gable saves himself and hauls Tozawa up to GERMAN SUPELX! And then GERMAN SUPLEX again! Gable GERMAN SUPLEXES again! But he isn’t done, Gable spins Tozawa around, and POWERBOMBS him! ANKLE LOCK!! Tozawa flails but he’s so far from the ropes! Tozawa TAPS, Gable wins!
Winner: Chad Gable, by submission
But Gable won’t let go! The fans boo, the ref reprimands, but Gable just drops into a GRAPEVINE! So Otis storms in and he drags Gable off the leg! Otis TOSSES Gable! The fans are thunderous, but Team American Made steps up to support Gable. Gable says Otis never learns! But Otis’ hips are moving! He’s shaking, quaking, and the fans fire up, but American Made backs off. Will Gable finally fight Otis and put this beef to rest?
The New Day talks backstage.
They still don’t understand how everyone here doesn’t see things their way. But then Dirty Dom walks over, clapping with “New! Day Rocks!” Finally, someone who understands! Dom says he never liked Big E, but uh, no, what they did was crazy. Well, whatever, Broke Ass Tom Selleck! Dom says Tom Selleck wishes! Dirty Dom heads for gorilla, ready to fight for the Judgment Day. But will Dom go from “Broke Ass Tom Selleck” to just broken?
Dominik Mysterio VS Damian Priest!
Judgment Day’s history has always been a rocky one, but it has never been rockier than right now. Betraying Rhea Ripley & Damian Priest probably has a lot to do with it, but will Dom be able to smooth things over by taking Damian down? Or will Priest finally beat some sense into #LatinoCheat?
The bell rings and Dom bails right out! Dom dares Priest to come get him, but Priest says Dom needs to get back in the ring. Priest will even give him a free shot! Dom storms up to the apron, steps in, and takes that swing, but Priest blocks it! Then Priest BELL CLAPS Dom, DECKS him, then DECKS him again! Dom staggers around, Priest picks him up to SLAM DUNK! Dom staggers back up, into a torture rack! Priest bends Dom with the Argentine Backbreaker! Priest then THROWS Dom down and the fans fire up. Priest paces around, powers up his arm, and Dom rises. The fans rally and Priest runs, but Dom ducks a lariat!
Dom kicks, CLUBS and KICKS again! SUPERKICK! Then DROPKCIK! Priest staggers but Dom hurries to stalk behind him. Priest sits up first and glares at Dom. Dom panics, but he DUMPS Priest out! Dom builds speed to DIVE, but into Priest’s hands! FLATLINER onto the desk! The fans fire up and Priest drags Dom up to then POST him! Dom falls in a heap, but Priest puts Dom in the ring. Priest then notices a very suspicious Santa Claus. Priest snatches the beard away, and tada! It’s JD! Priest TOSSES JD and the fans cheer! JD wants mercy but Priest SLIDES him across the desk! The fans fire up as Wade narrowly avoids getting hit!
Priest then has a Spider Sense moment, and he looks under the ring! Carlito spits out his apple in surprise! Priest drags Carlito up and TOSSES him into the timekeeper’s area! But then Finn attacks!
Winner: Damian Priest, by disqualification
Finn fires hands, but Priest blocks the desk bump! Priest body shots and SMACKS Finn off the desk! And again, and again! Priest puts Finn in the ring, Dom runs up, but Priest DECKS him! Priest fires more hands on Finn, but the Judgment Day regroups! They mug Priest 4v1 as usual, and JD even drops elbows! The fans boo but the Judgment Day stand Priest up. WAIT! Here comes the War Raiders! Erik & Ivar fire hands on Dom & Carlito, and Priest TOSSES JD! Finn realizes he’s alone, and Priest SUPERKICKS him down! Priest stomps a mudhole into Finn, the Raiders put Carlito and Dom in the ring!
Ivar KNEES Carlito, then feeds him to Erik’s KNEE! The fans cheer, JD gets up, but Priest LARIATS him inside-out! Dom is fed to the WAR MACHINE!! Finn staggers up, but Priest grabs him! And Finn goes SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! The Judgment Day just got further embarrassed, and that’s not even considering JD’s Santa costume. Will the War Raiders be some unlikely allies for Priest in this ongoing war with the Judgment Day?
Sit-down interview with Seth Rollins.
Jackie Redmond thanks The Visionary for taking this time to talk with her, and he says it is his pleasure. Jackie talked with CM Punk and heard what he had to say, what Punk believes, when it comes to Rollins’ hatred for Punk. And we have heard from Rollins, as well, but Jackie’s still just curious. What is the root cause, the driving force, of this disdain he clearly feels for CM Punk? Rollins says the thing is, he has tried to explain how he feels many times over the years, and it sort of… Well, he won’t say he’s talking into the wind, but Rollins just feels Punk has needed the WWE more than the WWE needed him.
And so that hypocrisy from Punk is what just eats at Rollins. It is hard for Rollins to let that go. Jackie mentions how Rollins has talked about getting rid of it by “cutting it out” and fighting through it, and how this fight with Punk has to happen as a catharsis. What does “cutting” Punk out look like? What should we expect from, not even so much a match, that doesn’t feel like the right word now. Rollins says it’ll be fight. That’s what we’re getting, no question. It is the biggest fight in their sport right now, and Rollins needs it now. After Survivor Series, seeing Punk hand-in-hand with Roman Reigns… Roman’s finger in the air, Punk doing the stupid Go To Sleep thing…
Rollins just wanted to throw the remote through his TV, he was so viscerally, internally destroyed. Rollins felt that was it, no more waiting. The world needs to see it. This is perfect. The Netflix debut, the world will be watching. But to answer the question, he doesn’t know what it’ll look like. You might see a side of Rollins that no one’s ever seen. No pun intended, it will be raw, visceral, violent. Rollins needs to exorcise this demon from his soul, he has to cut the cancer out of his brain, or he is going down. Then the only way to process the betrayal is to go through a fight, and we get that on January 6th, Raw in LA for Netflix.
Jackie thanks Rollins for the time and his honesty. Rollins says yeah, he can’t wait. Will Rollins truly #BurnItDown when it comes to fight CM Punk?
The Miz VS Dexter Lumis!
The Hollywood A-Lister has his own history with the man now turned buzzard, and things are only worse now that this is about the Final Testament and the Wyatt Sick6. Will Miz manage to bury the past once and for all? Or will he get no mercy from Lumis?
Raw returns as Miz waits. A message flashes, “I OPENED THE DOOR,” and then the lights go down. And from that mysterious door to the other side, out steps Lumis. He takes off the Mercy the Buzzard mask, then rushes the ring! Miz scrambles right out as Lumis slithers along the mat! The fans cheer Lumis on while Miz tentatively returns to the ring. The bell rings, Miz wants Lumis to hold on, but Lumis swings hands! Miz bobs ‘n’ weaves, then throws a punch! Lumis just glares at Miz! Miz runs away, Lumis gives chase, and they go around the outside, then back inside! Lumis drags Miz out of the ring to ROCK him!
Miz staggers, Lumis THROWS him into barriers! The fans cheer, Lumis ROCKS Miz again, and then Lumis SMACKS Miz off the apron! Lumis pushes Miz into the ring, Miz bails out, but Lumis goes out to the apron. CANNONBALL! The fans fire up and Lumis brings Miz up. Lumis CLUBS Miz, stalks him, then puts him in the ring. Miz again asks for mercy, but then he tries a cheap kick! Lumis blocks and UPPERCUTS! Lumis scoops, Miz slips free and Miz BOOTS Lumis! Miz runs, but into a THESZ PRESS! Lumis rains down fast hands, then runs to AX HANDLE! The fans fire up and Lumis brings Miz up.
Miz breaks free to throat chop! The ref reprimands but Miz runs, only for Lumis to catch him! URENAGE! Lumis storms around, then goes looks to the corner. Lumis climbs, but wait, the Authors of Pain are here! So Lumis CANNONBALLS onto them! The fans fire up but Kross attacks!
Winner: Dexter Lumis, by disqualification
The Final Testament beats Lumis up and puts him in the ring. Miz stands, confident now that he has reinforcements. Kross says they’ve got Lumis where they want him, but Lumis looks to the sky. Seems it’s the other way around! The lights go down, and when they come up, the rest of the Wyatts are here! They brawl with Final Testament and then send them running! Nikki wants uppies, and Erik Rowan pops her up to POWERBOMB her out onto The Final Testament! Nikki is all fired up as the Wyatts stand together! Will The Final Testament be the one buried and forgotten after all is said and done?
The War Raiders regroup backstage.
Erik & Ivar are fired up after getting the better of Judgment Day, and then Priest walks in. He says what’s up, and they give him some pushes and shoves of excitement. Priest says okay, okay, settle down. But that was good, and he appreciates the save. Ivar says hey, they’ve all known each other a long time. And while they haven’t always seen eye to eye, there has always been honor here. They may not be friends, but Priest had their backs in a big way last week and they don’t forget that. They owed him, they got him. Priest respects that. If the War Raiders are at war with the Judgment Day, then he’ll go to war with them.
They all fist bump, and Erik & Ivar say they like the sound of that. Could these three finally tear down Judgment Day once and for all?
The zero symbol returns…
And now it’s joined by a pentagram? What could these clues be leading to?
The New Day barges out to ringside.
And Kofi Kingston tells Joe Tessitore & Wade Barrett on commentary that no no no no! You do not get to speak about them like that! Woods asks what is going on around here? What happened to unbiased journalism? How long has Tessitore even been with the WWE? Not that long, right? Certainly not long enough to know that his job is not to have an opinion but to tell the TRUTH like they have! But it seems in 2024, no one wants the truth! Certainly not these fans. Wade was sympathizing with E as well! Well that’s fine, because Wade and Big E have something in common. They’re not man enough to lace up their boots again and get in the ring!
The fans boo now but Kofi says speaking of getting back int he ring, allow the New Day to do that and continue to tell everyone what they were trying to tell people before. They did NOT put hands on Big E. They could have, laid him out here in the ring, stretchered out of the building again, but they didn’t! So why is everyone so upset!? The fans keep booing but Kofi says this was supposed to be a homecoming for Kofi, and for the woman he bought a plane ticket for to come all the way here to Boston from Ghana, and that is Kofi’s mom! Kofi’s mom is in the front row! Miss Elizabeth Kingston is here, but she doesn’t seem very amused.
Kofi says his mom sat in the middle seat for 20 HOURS, just to see Kofi, and the fans are ruining her experience! This is his mother! The woman who taught him how to be the man that he is today! She does not deserve to see her son get booed out of his own hometown! Woods says they gave the fans ten of the best years of their LIVES…! Kofi steps back outside to apologize to his mom for the fans. She does not deserve this. Kofi doesn’t understand why they’re doing this. Kofi wants a hug. Miss Elizabeth stands up, but she pushes Kofi! She’s upset with HIM, not the fans! Miss Elizabeth takes her coat and leaves! Kofi is confused, what’s this about?
Kofi calls after his mom but she tunes him out. Though, it might be hard to hear over the fans. Will it ever get through to the New Day that they are in the wrong?
The New Day regroups backstage.
And then they cross paths with Rey Mysterio. Woods asks if he’s gonna pile on. Rey says no, it’s not like that. Rey thought about what they said last week, being a locker room leader and all. Rey definitely could’ve handled things better, so he’ll apologize to them. Rey just has the responsibility to help everyone as much as he can. So hey, what New Day did was out of pocket, all foul. And if they want to start fixing things, they can start by apologizing. Whoa, hold up. Them? Apologize to Rey and the locker room? No, they aren’t apologizing, because they didn’t do anything wrong! This is ridiculous!
Rey is just as bad as Big E and everyone else! Why not let Woods pop that mask off again so he can hear them better. New Day did nothing wrong. Rey says okay, fine, que pasa nada. Just don’t say he didn’t try. From this point on, New Day is on their own. And oh, get used to hearing this. “New! Day SUCKS!” With that, Rey takes his leave. After hearing that, will Kofi & Woods have anything but a Merry Christmas?
Sami Zayn VS Drew McIntyre!
The Honorary Uce may have just lost to the Scottish Terminator at Saturday Night’s Main Event, but he isn’t going to give up the fight. Will Sami finally get a win over McIntyre as a Christmas miracle? Or will McIntyre ruin the holidays with a Claymore?
Raw returns and Sami makes his entrance. The bell rings and McIntyre kicks low! McIntyre fires hands, then CHOPS Sami in a corner! McIntyre ROCKS Sami, stands him up, and then CHOPS again! The fans are torn but McIntyre paces while Sami sits down. Sami rises up, and he avoids a chop to fire hands! The fans fire up as Sami CHOPS and fires more punches! The ref backs Sami off, but Sami comes back to stomp and punch! The fans rally behind “SAMI USO!” and Sami whips Mcintyre corner to corner. McIntyre reverses, Sami goes up, but McIntyre KICKS him out of the air!
McIntyre snarls and then he deadlift suplexes Sami! Sami writhes and clutches his back, but McIntyre storms over to him. McIntyre STMOPS Sami’s hands! Then he ROCKS Sami with a right! Sami goes to ropes but McIntyre CHOPS him again! The fans “WOO~!” as that chop echoes out! The fans rally for Sami but McIntyre grins. McIntyre whips but Sami KICKS him in return! Mcintyre comes back but Sami TOSSES him out! The fans fire up and Sami builds speed, but then Mcintyre moves so Sami Arabian Presses to land back inside. Sami smiles as he gets the better of McIntyre, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Sami is in the corner. McIntyre storms up to stomp away on him again! The ref backs McIntyre off but then McIntyre storms back up. McIntyre drag’s Sami up to the apron, and he suplexes Sami up and into the ring! Sami flounders to the ropes and the ref checks him. Sami says he’s still in this, so McIntyre drags Sami back up. But Sami CHOPS McIntyre! And CHOSP! And fires forearms! Sami whips, McIntyre reverses but Sami ducks ‘n’ dodges, only for McIntyre to tilt-o-whirl BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Sami survives and McIntyre grows annoyed. The fans rally up but Sami writhes form all the damage.
McIntyre stalks Sami to the ropes, eggs him on, and then whips him to ropes. Sami ducks ‘n’ dodges again, and this time Sami tilt-o-whirls to DDT! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Sami and McIntyre both rise up, and McIntyre bails out. Sami storms up to ropes, grits his teeth, and he PLANCHAS! But McIntyre catches him! And then he aims for the desk! Sami fights free, and he DRIBBLES McIntyre off the desk! Sami backs off as the ring count climbs, but Sami goes back for McIntyre. McIntyre stops the step bump to SMACK Sami off the steps! McIntyre refreshes the ring count because he wants to do more damage!
McIntyre stalks Sami up the steps, then lifts him for an APRON BACKBREAKER!! Sami falls and writhes, and McIntyre has a manic look on his face as he watches Sami suffer, but Raw goes to break.
Raw returns once again and Mcintyre has Sami in the Inverted Alabama Lift! INVERTED ALABAMA- VICTORY ROLL! TWO!! McIntyre escapes and runs up, but Sami dodges! McIntyre POSTS himself! The fans fire up as McIntyre flops back, and Sami hurries to the corner! Sami climbs, but his back slows him down! McIntyre ROCKS Sami first! And then CHOPS him! McIntyre climbs up after Sami, fires some shots, then fireman’s carries Sami! SUPER WHITE NOISE! A shoutout to Sheamus and McIntyre covers, TWO!! The fans fire up while McIntyre grows frustrated. Sami stirs but McIntyre watches him closely.
The fans rally and McIntyre drags Sami back up. But Sami cradle counters! TWO! McIntyre GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTTS! Sami falls and McIntyre snarls. McIntyre goes to a corner, and he takes aim at Sami. Here comes the countdown! “THREE! TWO! ONE!” But Sami LARIATS McIntyre! And then a clinch, EXPLODER into the corner! Sami goes to the other side and the fans fire up! Sami aims as McIntyre rises, but that back tightens up. Sami fights through the pain, gets running, but CLAYMORE!! Cover, McIntyre wins!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
That was perhaps the closest Sami’s come, but he was still so far away from victory over McIntyre. 3-0 in 2024, 10-0 overall, and McIntyre stands over Sami to rub it in. Sami is already dazed, but McIntyre rains down fists! The fans boo, the ref reprimands, but McIntyre shoves the ref away to HAMMER Sami down! But here comes Jey, just like earlier tonight! Jey runs in, dodges again, and this time, SPEAR!! Jey has Mcintyre down, but now he goes up! But wait! TAMA TONGA SHOVES JEY OFF THE TOP!! Solo Sikoa & The Bloodline are here! McIntyre is just as surprised, but given the truce they called on Friday, McIntyre takes his leave.
The Bloodline beat down Sami & Jey, which McIntyre loves to see. Tama Tonga rains down fists on Main Event Jey in a corner, but the fans chant for “O T C! O T C!” Instead, Jacob Fatu gets running! But Jey dodges the hip attack! SUPERKICK for Tama! Jey fires haymakers on Jacob! “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Solo steps in to swing, but Jey dodges! Jey ROCKS Solo! Jacob SUPERKICKS Jey! The fans boo as the Samoan Werewolf gets all geeked up! Solo adds his SAMOAN SPIKE!! Solo throws off his jacket, sits Jey back up, but Sami gets in! Sami fires hands, but Tama TACKLES Sami! Tama beats Sami down and fans boo again.
Solo tells Tama to set Sami up, and Tama stomps Sami into the corner. Jacob runs in, to HIP ATTACK! Jacob isn’t done, he puts Sami in the drop zone to go up, up and BEST MOONSAULT EVER! The fans boo but Solo adds on another SAMOAN SPIKE!! Solo roars, then he and his Bloodline stand over the OGs. Jacob adorns Solo with the ula fala, will not even Roman Reigns be able to stop the “Undisputed” Tribal Chief? Will all of the WWE have no choice but to acknowledge Solo Sikoa?
My Thoughts:
A great Raw here to build both the last Raw of 2024 and the first Raw of 2025, aka the Netflix debut. Rollins had a very good interview promo to add just a little more to things, but I feel like there’s little left that they need to say. Very good stuff with Judgment Day, such as the classic “X, can you tell Y…” gag from Finn and Liv. Dom thinking their plan to screw Priest over would work is hilarious, as was how it all fell apart. Priest gets the win from disqualification, but then great save from the War Raiders. Good promo from Priest and War Raiders, love the reference to ROH by saying “honor” there, and that’s a solid Six Man Tag right there.
Fun little bit from Pearce with Pure Fusion Collective, and of course Sonya thought she’d get a second chance, and of course Pearce uses real logic to say no way. Iyo Sky replacing Kairi Sane was announced last week on social media, so I guess Sonya didn’t check between shows. Great Triple Threat from Iyo, Alba and Natty, and of course Iyo won or else why put her in there? Iyo VS Lyra next round will be great stuff, as will Dakota Kai VS Zoey Stark, and whatever combination we get for the title match is going to be great. I don’t think we’ll get DMG CTRL VS DMG CTRL, so if Dakota wins, Iyo loses, and then vice-versa.
Great stuff with American Made and Alpha Academy, but of course Tozawa takes the loss. Otis standing up to Gable & The Creeds was a great moment, and I really hope we get Gable VS Otis for the big Netflix debut. Win or lose, Otis should definitely have a moment where he rallies through Gable and both Creeds, really get the crowd hot before the finish. Miz VS Lumis was good but could’ve been better. With only two hours, I guess they had to trim things down to the basics. Another disqualification finish tonight is a bit much, but I guess it keeps things going until we can come up with some kind of new 8 Man Tag, or even a really wild Mixed 10 Person match so Nikki and Scarlett can get involved legally.
Great stuff with New Day, from their interaction with Dom, then their “interrupting” the show to try and get their point across. It was great to have Mama Kingston there, and I just knew she would be disappointed in Kofi. Good promo with Rey, too, as Rey now leaves New Day out in the cold. I feel like we need a big tag team match to not only have Heel New Day show their stuff against like LWO, Alpha Academy, etcetera, and then they earn their way to a match with the War Raiders to revisit their feud, just with flipped Heel and Face dynamics. That could be some really good stuff as Raw on Netflix paves the road to WrestleMania 41.
And great stuff with McIntyre and the extended Bloodline. He and Sami had a great promo to again bring up family and sacrifice, but also how Roman’s OG Bloodline came back together without Roman ever changing a thing. Great brawls, great saves by Jey, and of course McIntyre won the match. Jey will of course get next, probably also for the Netflix debut, but good stuff with Solo Sikoa and his Bloodline showing up. They beat down Jey & Sami to send a message to Roman, who was obviously not going to be here tonight. There will surely be a response in part on SmackDown, but maybe more verbal than physical.
I feel like the “Transfer Window” will need to put all Bloodline members, old and new, on one brand so the story can be told all on one show. It’d just be easier while Jimmy’s foot is healing, because what can Roman do without backup against Solo, Tama & Jacob? And honestly, still waiting on when and where Hikuleo is going to show up. This is a good time to bring him in with Tonga Loa also hurt, so Solo can get the numbers edge on Roman again.
My Score: 8.8/10
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!