Coverage
Mathew’s Dragon Gate King of Gate 2020 Round One Results & Review
After dealing with Corona-chan, personal issues, and other things, it’s time to come back and we’re going to start with Dragon Gate’s tournament, King of Gate. I and Andrew covered it two years ago, which was underwhelming and last year won us back, so time to bring it back for this year. They’re doing it differently this year as it’s not a round-robin but a single elimination with three blocks. The winner of the blocks will meet in the semi-finals and the fourth person will be decided in a Battle Royal with all the people that lose in the tournament.
Before we begin, gonna post some predictions with block winners and the actual winner of the tournament to see how far I get.
- A Block: YAMATO
- B Block: BxB Hulk
- C Block: Eita
- Battle Royal: Kzy
- Winner: Eita (Eita and YAMATO in finals)
Now that we got some of the set-ups for the tournament, who will win their respective blocks? Will the Open the Dream Gate Champion win the whole thing? Will R.E.D win the war? Let’s find out as we…dive right in.
Rating System:
- 0 Stars: Dave Meltzer
- 1 Star: Vince Russo
- 2 Stars: Tony Schiavone
- 3 Stars: Eric Bischoff
- 4 Stars: Bruce Prichard
- 5 Stars: Jim Cornette
A Block 5/15/2020
King of Gate A Block Match
Kzy vs. H.Y.O
Review: Our first match of the show and A Block is Kzy taking on H.Y.O. Kzy recently failed to defeat Naruki Doi for the Open the Dream Gate Championship and this could be his chance to get back in the picture if he wins the tournament and block. Will Kzy be able to get a second chance or does H.Y.O score the upset?
H.Y.O attacking Kzy right away before the bell rings as a typical R.E.D fashion thing to do and is on the attack. Kzy is an underrated performer and I wish he would win the top title one day but chances of that now feel slim and is just a gatekeeper of the company at this point. H.Y.O seems to have improved since the last time I saw him as he gained a bit of muscle and seems like an actual powerhouse. Kzy would eventually get some momentum back after hitting some beautiful uppercuts and a quick Overcastle with a nice sequence.
Kzy eventually lost momentum for a bit as H.Y.O hits a nice combination with an Atomic Drop, Stunner, and rolled him for Kzy to kick out at two. H.Y.O attempts a Diving Senton but Kzy rolled out of the way and hits a Running Elbow Smash. Kzy attempts to pick him up as H.Y.O kicked him below and belt and rolls him but the referee refuses to count since he saw the actions played out. Kzy would have him by the corner but H.Y.O hits him with the turnbuckle pad and continues to do so until the referee attempted to stop him. This would lead H.Y.O to hit the ref with the pad and gets himself disqualified, making Kzy advance to the next round. H.Y.O wasn’t done as he hits Kzy with a Diving Senton after the bell has rung.
Rating: Eric Bischoff and a quarter
King of Gate A Block Match
Ryo Saito vs. YAMATO
Review: It’s now time for our next match as Ryo Saito takes on YAMATO. The winner of this bout will be facing Kzy in the next round. YAMATO looks to regain the gold after not being champion for nearly three years. Ryo Saito looks to beat the former ace and move on to hopefully win his first big title. Will YAMATO reach the top or does Ryo get the biggest win of his career?
Ryo is more than a comedy character since he has proven time and time again that he can actually go in big matches and since there’s no crowd to entertain with comedy, he focuses more on his in-ring ability and he still doesn’t disappoint me. YAMATO is no slouch either and he makes sure Ryo brings his A-game to give us a great match. They didn’t need to do anything crazy as the two were just telling a story in the ring while executing their moves rather flawlessly.
Ryo was gaining momentum while the two were exchanging forearms with each other as Ryo would be the one that would win the blow for blow with each other. Ryo would hit a Dragon Suplex on YAMATO and would kick out at two. Ryo was looking to end it as he had his arms in a straight jacket position while lifting him, but YAMATO would shift his body around to catch him for a Sleeper. Ryo would do his best to try and fight him off but it was too late as he fell onto his knees, giving YAMATO enough time to hit the Gallaria to secure the victory. YAMATO would now fight Kzy in the next round. Great performances from both of these men.
Rating: Eric Bischoff and three quarters
King of Gate A Block Match
Dragon Kid vs. Diamante
Review: We’re halfway done with A Block as we have two matches left with Dragon Kid taking on Diamante. H.Y.O failed to represent R.E.D in the first round but Diamante could help support the team if he can defeat the protege of Ultimo Dragon. Will Dragon Kid get rid of R.E.D in A Block or does Diamante get rid of one of Dragon Gate’s top stars?
Diamante would try to go for the early assault onto Kid but he saw right through his attempt and was able to get the early advantage. This is my first time seeing Diamante in singles competition, so it would be good to see how he does on his own and a little rough around the edges, but he also has a lot of potentials to do better. The match was a little more mat-based than what you would see in a match involving Dragon Kid but he knows how to adapt and moves rather quick for someone that’s over forty, showing that age is just a number. Of course, these shows are expected to play out differently without a crowd but also makes them focus more on the in-ring aspect of the matches to make it their selling points and it does work given the environment they’re dealing with right now.
Diamante would hit a beautiful Springboard Dropkick onto Kid, which was impressive for a man that tall and would attempt to put the veteran away. Dragon would attempt to make a comeback after hitting a Tilt-a-Whirl DDT to put him down. Dragon Kid attempts to go for the Bible but he knew he wouldn’t hit that as he tries to hit the Dragonrana, but Diamante catches him to attempt a Powerbomb but Dragon turns it into a Sunset Flip for a two count. Kid charges in as Diamante caught him for a Tilt-a-Whirl Backbreaker and flipped him to turn it into a Gutbuster right after. Diamante wasn’t down as he would hit the Vuelta Finale to score the upset victory over Kid!
Rating: Eric Bischoff
King of Gate A Block Match
Susumu Yokosuka vs. Yosuke Santa Maria
Review: It’s now time for the final match of A Block as we have AJPW Junior Heavyweight Champion, Susumu Yokosuka taking on Yosuke Santa Maria. Susumu still holding the belt after he went over to AJPW for a tournament as he looks to win the tournament and has a chance to have gold on two different promotions. Santa Maria is also a popular wrestler who is looking to win in his Cinderella story to try and win the big title for the first time. Does Susumu fight Diamante or will Santa Maria score a big win?
Before the bell rang, the two would just slap each other back and forth to have their match underway. Susumu is someone who has had a great year so far, especially with his performances with Hikaru Sato in AJPW (which you should check out). Santa Maria has changed his look a little bit while still wearing the attires we all know and love, and still performing at a top-level, showing looks can be deceiving.
Susumu would toss Yosuke in the air but he would counter that with a beautiful Sky Love to take him down and he looks to have an opening as he attempted to kiss Susumu but had no luck in doing so. Susumu would attempt to go for the Yokosuka Cutter but Yosuke would fight it off as he attempts to hit a Lariat on him, which Susumu doesn’t fall and hits his Lariat. Yosuke would attempt several ways to try and roll him up but Susumu would keep kicking out of them. Susume would finally hit the Jumbo no Kachi!gatame as Yosuke kicked out at two! Soon as Yosuke kicked out, he would catch his arms for a Crucifix pin as Susumu kicked out again but wait, Yosuke does the Leg Clutch to catch him for another pin and he gets the upset victory! Yosuke finished the first round with a big win and will fight Diamante in the next round in a solid bout.
Rating: Eric Bischoff and a half
B Block 5/16/2020
King of Gate B Block Match
Kaito Ishida vs. Jason Lee
Review: Time to get started on the B Block portion of the tournament as we have Jason Lee takes on the current Open the Brave Gate Champion, Kaito Ishida. Kaito has been improving himself ever since he aligned with R.E.D and is looking to win the tournament to challenge the Open the Dream Gate Champion, and he has a good chance of that happening if he can make it to the block final. Will Kaito win or does Jason knock Kaito down a peg?
In typical R.E.D fashion, Kaito would attack Jason before the bell would ring and begins the assault. Kaito would find his opening as he worked on Jason’s leg and starts to make that his target for the match. Kaito has been showing progress and it’s been a while since I’ve seen him work, so this is a good treat to see his work as a heel. Jason is someone I’ve been a fan of since he came to Dragon Gate and he screams future Open the Brave Gate Champion, so it could be a reality this year is he can outmaneuver Kaito. Jason got a small comeback and showing to get back into it but Kaito would hurt his leg and applies the Ankle Lock, which Jason fights off it the first time. Kaito would apply the Ankle Lock again and while Jason attempts to fight it off a second time, Kaito laid down to bend his leg while applying the lock as Jason tapped out and Kaito advances!
Rating: Eric Bischoff
King of Gate B Block Match
BxB Hulk vs. Keisuke Okuda
Review: Time for our next match as BxB Hulk is set to take on Keisuke Okuda. Hulk is my pick to win the block so he could fight YAMATO in the semi-finals to have that grudge match finally. Keisuke isn’t looking to go down so easily against the vet. Which one of these two will fight Kaito in the next round?
Oh no, who didn’t see this coming when Hulk attacking his opponent before the bell rang? It’s not like I just saw this in the previous match…oh no… Anyway, arrogant Hulk works and he can put on a good match with the right opponent or if he really wants to, but this match was to just show how arrogant he can be. This was more one-sided than anything else since it was Hulk assaulting him in and out of the ring, even choking him with a towel it looks like. Keisuke would only show a little bit of offense with MMA style punches but it doesn’t phase Hulk and just kicks him down.
Hulk looks like he’s had enough toying with Keisuke here and he looks to put him away but what’s this? Keisuke is starting to fight back and has him up on his shoulders, kneeing him a bit before hitting the Lights Out real quick for a two count. Keisuke didn’t waste any time as he picked Hulk up to hit the Lights Out one more time and pins him for the win and advances to fight Kaito! *Rips my notes up and throws them in the air* Hulk, you had one job…
Rating: Eric Bischoff
King of Gate B Block Match
Genki Horiguchi vs. KAI
Review: We’re halfway done with B Block as we now go to our next match as Genki Horiguchi takes on KAI. KAI is looking to be apart of the tournament and aim to win the whole thing. I’m sure he would’ve loved to get payback against Hulk but SOMEBODY had to lose due to their arrogance. Genki, however, is looking for a chance to possibly fight the Open the Dream Gate Champion. Who will advance to the next round?
Oh, thank god, not another pre-match assault in this match. KAI was someone I’ve been on and off with during his early years but now, I’ve been enjoying his improvements and is someone that is now tolerable to watch. Genki is also someone that can still work a good match and this is what we get between these two. Things started off fairly even with the chain wrestling but Genki was able to get the early advantage by working with KAI’s leg since it could be beneficial to Genki to cut KAI’s speed or make him tap if he wants to. Unlike the previous match, this one was more balanced with some solid wrestling action from both of these men. Genki near the end would try to put KAI away with the Backslide from Heaven but KAI was able to kick out, however, Genki attempted it a second time with KAI kicking out again. KAI tries to fight it off in the third attempt and he would by rolling Genki for the Gannosuke Clutch and KAI was able to get the win!
Rating: Eric Bischoff and a half
King of Gate B Block Match
Naruki Doi vs. Big R Shimizu
Review: It’s now time for our final match of the block as Big R Shimizu takes on the current Open the Dream Gate Champion, Naruki Doi. Can’t remember the last time when the champion would take part in the King of Gate tournament but he’s looking to do that for this to help out Dragon Gate during their time in need. The winner of this one will face KAI in the next round. Will the champion be taken out in the first round or will the champion prevail?
God damnit, I thought I was done with the pre-match attacks but it looked like Naruki was prepared for him though as he was able to dodge him while the two do a battle of shoulder tackles, which Big R would win obviously. Big R had the early advantage with his powerhouse style with Naruki matching him off with his quickness. While the match was less than five minutes, they made sure it was full of action to make it interesting without feeling like it would drag at any point in the match. Naruki ran towards Big R but he catches him to look for a slam as Naruki landed a DDT on him instead. Naruki hits the Bakatare Sliding Kick to take him down and as he attempts the second one, Big R would stop him to attempt the Shot-put Slam until Naruki rolled him up for the V9 Clutch and secures the victory to advance!
Rating: Eric Bischoff
C Block 5/17/2020
King of Gate C Block Match
Ben-K vs. Kagetora
Review: It’s now time to get started with our final block of the first round as Kagetora takes on Ben-K. Ben won the tournament last year along with the title on top of it, so he would wanna win it back to back and defeat Naruki to avenge his loss. Will Ben be one step closer or will his dreams get cut short?
Aww, Ben got rid of his shogun gear again, very sad. Anyway, the match itself wasn’t terrible but nothing special at the same time. Kagetora didn’t get too much offense in and whenever he did, it’s usually with his Shining Wizard, which is always beautiful whenever he hits it. Ben had a good majority of the control in the match and should be able to since he is a top star with a story behind him. Kagetora would hit another Shining Wizard to get a little bit of a comeback and starts working Ben on the turnbuckle with an Enziguri to daze him. The two started to brawl a bit more and Ben attempts a Spear but Kagetora jumps over him as he attempted to roll him up afterward for a two count. The two would run the ropes back and forth until Ben eventually caught him with the Spear to secure the victory.
Rating: Tony Schiavone and three quarters
King of Gate C Block Match
Eita vs. Strong Machine J
Review: We now have our next match as Strong Machine J takes on the leader of R.E.D, Eita. It looks like J is on his own after he and the other Strong Machines lost the Triangle Gate Championships last year and is looking to make a big impression here. Eita made it to the finals last year and he looks to win the whole thing this time as my pick. Will Eita be able to fight the man who beat him in the finals last year or does J score a big win?
After two days, Eita decides to be the first person from R.E.D in this tournament to not attack their opponent before the match started. This is my first time see Strong Machine J in singles action and I have to admit, he’s very impressive in the ring. I’m not sure who the person under the mask is but it’s easy to see why he won the Best Newcomer Award in the Tokyo Sports Awards last year. If he ever does decide to unmask himself and be his person, I think he could be a big star but I don’t see him dropping the gimmick since his father, Super Strong Machine was the one to start it and probably wants to honor that in his career. Eita is a great heel and he does have moments to show that when he doesn’t fully rely on his group all the time.
The two were fighting on the top rope as Eita is looking to hit the Superplex but J would be able to fight him off and flip over him to pick him up so he could hit the Powerbomb, pinning Eita as he kicked out at two. J doesn’t stop himself as he goes to the top rope to hit the Diving Headbutt for another two count. J picked Eita up as he hits the Devil Windmill Suplex but Eita’s legs were on the ropes, making J unable to pin him as he dragged him to the center of the ring, but it was too late since Eita kicked out at two. J goes back to the top rope to attempt another Diving Headbutt but Eita puts his foot up and would hit the Imperial Uno to knock J down as Eita wins in an impressive match. It looks like the finals of the tournament last year will take place on round two, which should be interesting.
Rating: Eric Bischoff and a half
King of Gate C Block Match
Masaaki Mochizuki vs. KAZMA SAKAMOTO
Review: Halfway through the block, as we now have our next match with Masaaki Mochizuki taking on KAZMA SAKAMOTO. Mochizuki currently lost the GHC Tag Team Championship and he looks to win this tournament to regain the Open the Dream Gate Championship. Will Mochizuki be able to make it to the next round or does KAZMA play the spoiler to him and score a big victory?
Safe to say that this was my second favorite match in the first round and never knew I wanted a singles match between these two until it happened during this one. Mochizuki never disappoints and proves age is just a number as he wrestles like he’s half his age. KAZMA is someone I’ve been starting to appreciate more during his return to Dragon Gate and his small run in NOAH. The two didn’t need to do anything crazy to keep the viewers interested as it was just a wrestling match with the two fighting in and out of the ring, executing moves flawlessly and share a unique chemistry.
Mochizuki delivers a couple of kicks to KAZMA until he caught his leg on the last kick and hits him with an Uppercut as the two fall down after. The two start to get back up and they slap each other but Mochizuki delivers a Roundhouse Kick and goes to jump the ropes as KAZMA hits him with another Uppercut with a Falcon Arrow after that. KAZMA would attempt to hit the Plus Driver but Mochizuki fights it off by flipping him over and delivers a kick to KAZMA. Mochizuki would attempt the Saikyou High Kick a couple of times but KAZMA would block his kicks and hits the Plus Driver this time to pin him and KAZMA moves on to the next round. Talk about shocking victory here since I did not expect him to win, but we needed one of them to happen in the first round and it was a great match on top.
Rating: Eric Bischoff and three quarters
King of Gate C Block Match
Dragon Dia vs. Takashi Yoshida
Review: I think it’s time to close up the first round with our final match of C Block with Takashi Yoshida taking on Dragon Kid’s apprentice, Dragon Dia. This is Dia’s first time in the tournament and he looks to do Dragon Kid proud by trying to win the tournament. Which one of these two will fight KAZMA in the next round? Does R.E.D win the block with a clean sweep?
Oh wow, Takashi didn’t even attempt to attack Dia before the bell, that must’ve been hard for him to resist unless he’s that confident. You can tell that Takashi wasn’t taking Dia seriously since it seemed Dia’s moves wouldn’t fully phase him right away, he would even do a test of strength with him with only one hand while Dia uses two. While there were times it could’ve felt one-sided but this one worked in a story sense since Dia is the underdog in the match while Takashi is the big monster heel that overpowers him. Dia was able to try and gain some momentum when he hits the Hurricanrana and a Springboard DDT on top of that but Takashi kicked out at two. Dia would attempt the Reptilian Rana but Takashi caught him to try and hit the Powerbomb as Dia flipped over for a Sunset Flip with Takashi kicking out. Dia would be able to catch Takashi off guard with the Reptilian Rana and lands it this time while getting the upset victory over Takashi!
Rating: Eric Bischoff and a quarter
Overall: They were able to run the show without a crowd and they made it work with solid first-round matches. The second round is shaping up to be interesting with unique match-ups happening, making it difficult to see what the outcomes would be.
Favorite Match: YAMATO vs. Ryo Saito
Least Favorite Match: Ben-K vs. Kagetora
Score: 7.5/10
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Can the Last Real Champion handle The Truth?
While the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments reach their semifinals, John Cena has his first match on SmackDown in years, against Ron Killings!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss; Asuka wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Aleister Black VS ???
- King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn; wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman VS LA Knight; wins.
- John Cena VS Ron Killings; wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
LA Knight is here!
Grand Rapids fires up as the Mega Star marches right to the ring. Knight grabs a mic while the fans chant his name, and he says, “LEMME TALK TO YA!” The fans cheer, and Knight says, “Let’s just go ahead and rewind our mind a little bit. We go to back to Money in the Bank, Seth and his boys, they just happen to come down and screw this guy.” The fans boo that. Knight says usually, he lets things slide. But he just figured he couldn’t let it slide, so he made sure to screw on of Rollins’ boys in their title opportunity, King of the Ring. But then they came back, paid it back and screwed Knight outta KOTR, so he had to go and screw the other one over!
And it just has Knight thinking. Fans “YEAH!” and Knight says there is only one way this can go. He has gone back and forth between Raw and SmackDown, where it ends, nobody knows! Except Knight! He knows! He knows where this ends! The fans cheer that! And Knight says it ends with him and Rollins! And what better place than here? And what better time than now! Knight tells Rollins to come on out and talk to him! But “Ladies and gentlemen…” The fans boo as Paul Heyman walks out and gives his introductions. He serves as the Wise Man to Mr. Money in the Bank, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins!
Heyman says you do not boo that name. And you screwed up your cue, so they’ll do this again. He serves as the Wise Man for Seth Freakin’ Rollins! The fans keep booing, Heyman wants to try again, but Knight says shut up and get to the point! Why is Heyman here?! Heyman walks to the ring and asks permission to step inside. The fans chant “O T C! O T C!” but Knight steps back. Heyman steps into the ring, and he says yes, there has been a lot of bad blood between Knight and Mr. MITB, Seth Freakin’ Rollins. However, Heyman happens to be, with all due respect to everyone here in Grand Rapids, Michigan…
The fans chant “C M PUNK!” at Heyman now and he frowns. Knight says Heyman has a lot of enemies. Heyman says he is the biggest LA Knight fan in all of WWE! Heyman’s been waiting a long time to say this: YEAH! Now, because of that, Seth Freakin’ Rollins (the fans boo again) has allowed Heyman to say to Knight, as a favor to Heyman… It is time for Knight to get the hell outta Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because if he does not, something really bad is going to happen to him before the end of the night. Have a nice evening. Heyman turns to go but the fans cheer Knight on. Knight says he couldn’t help but notice, but did you~ (poking fun at Heyman’s voice cracking) threaten Knight?
Because Knight wants to wrap his head around this. He’s heard Heyman say stuff like this before, because Heyman is a liar, a swindler, a grifter, a scammer and a schemer! Heyman leeches on to any talent that has a bit of hype, sucks ’em dry, then moves on to the next! Rollins just happens to be the latest in this. But where next? Who cares! But the bottom line is, Knight asked for Rollins but he got Heyman. And while he got Heyman, he got a Heyman out here talking all tough. So it has Knight thinking, he has a great idea.
Talking about wise man, wisdom, there was a point in time if Heyman had said something like that, a man like Knight would look at a “thing” like Heyman and punched his wisdom teeth down his throat! Knight won’t do that, yet. But here’s the deal: Heyman’s talking all tough, but if he can’t bring Rollins out here, then the only thing to do out here in Grand Rapids is Knight fighting Heyman here and now! The fans fire up for that! Knight asks if the fans want that, and they cheer! “HUH?” “YEAH!” “HUH?” “YEAH!” “YEAH!!” Knight promises he’ll turn around, take his vest off, and Heyman gets the first shot. He better make it good, or Knight will molly whop his ass right outta Grand Rapids!
The fans fire up as Knight does as promised. He turns around, his vest is off, but Heyman bails? The fans boo as the Wise Man doesn’t play along. Heyman says, “Remember when I told you to get the hell out of Grand Rapids or else something really bad is gonna happen to you before the end of the night? That wasn’t a prediction. That… was a spoiler!” Heyman throws down his mic, and here comes Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker! Rollins’ behemoths head to the ring, but Knight fires off on them first! The fans rally as Knight throws hands and feet, but then Bron TACKLES Knight! Bronson joins in and they mug Knight right out of the ring!
Bronson drags Knight up to TOSS him over barriers! Bron clears the desk, he wants Bronson to put Knight through it! But Knight has a chair! He JAMS Bron, JAMS Bronson, then SMACKS Bron and SMACKS Bronson! Knight gets in the ring, ready to hit whoever gets in! The fans cheer Knight but Heyman has Bron & Bronson stand down. Will Heyman have the henchmen try again before the end of tonight?
SmackDown returns and…
Heyman has Bron & Bronson calm down, they have this under control. It is all in their favor, and it always will be in their favor. That is the whole point behind this. Byron Saxton steps in and wants to talk to them, but Heyman has to hold Bron back like the dog he is! Heyman says no need to bite Byron. Byron apologizes, he has word from SmackDown GM, Nick Aldis, that Bronson Reed VS LA Knight is set for tonight. Heyman says okay, thank you, and goodbye. Byron leaves and Heyman smiles. He told them! Patience is not a virtue, it is strategy. Bronson smiles and nods. Will Auzsilla destroy LA here in Grand Rapids?
Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss!
Two great returns to action through this tournament, and now they cross paths with each other. The Empress of Tomorrow overcame Ivy Nile, Raquel Rodriguez and Stephanie Vaquer while Lil’ Miss Bliss outsmarted Alba Fyre, Candice LeRae and Charlotte Flair. But whose comeback story overtakes the other’s here just one match away from Night of Champions?
The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Alexa headlocks, but Asuka powers up and out. Alexa RAMS Asuka, Asuka roars, and the fans fire up as Asuka fires hands! Alexa blocks a kick to THROW Asuka down, then basement DROPKICK! The fans cheer as Asuka and Alexa reset. Alexa kicks, Asuka blocks and slips through to waistlock. Alexa elbows free, runs, but Asuka runs past her to then RUN her over! The fans fire up and Asuka runs in again, HIP ATTACK! Alexa falls to the floor and the fans fire up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Asuka lets Alexa stay down while she soaks up the cheers. The ring count starts, Alexa rises, but Asuka goes out after her. Alexa slips inside and DROPKICKS Asuka’s leg! Asuka falls from the apron but she has to nod respect for that savvy move. Asuka steps back in at 6 of 10, and she resets with Alexa. They circle, feel things out, and tie up. Asuka wrenches and wristlocks, but Alexa rolls and wrenches to hammerlock. Alexa waistlocks, rolls Asuka, TWO! The two stand off again and they both nod respect. They reset, the fans rally up, and the two feel things out. Asuka trips Alexa, clamps on with a headlock, and she grinds Alexa down.
Alexa endures, Asuka turns her over to go after the arm, then she stands on Alexa’s arm. Alexa endures, Asuka shifts arms, but Alexa wrenches out to wrangle Asuka. Alexa shifts to a cording hold, but Asuka fights up and fires body shots. Alexa whips Asuka to a corner, but Asuka elbows her away! And BOOTS! Asuka goes up, leaps, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Alexa stays in this but Asuka stays focused. Asuka drags Alexa around and gives her Kawada Kicks! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Asuka wrenches for a chicken wing! Alexa fights the Asuka Lock and JAWBREAKERS free! Alexa runs up to RUN Asuka over!
The fans rally as Alexa rallies, then hits a BLOCKBUSTER! The fans fire up as Alexa SLAPS, ROCKS, and KNEES Asuka down! Then SOMERSAULT SENTON! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and Alexa grows frustrated. The fans rally while Alexa brings Asuka up. Asuka breaks free to URAKEN, SOBAT, FRONT KICK, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Alexa tumbles away, Asuka runs up, SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up as Asuka stands and takes aim. But Alexa ducks the buzzsaw! Cover, TWO! Alexa clinches, TWISTED- NO, Asuka rolls Alexa up! TWO! Alexa sits up, BUZZSAW! Cover, TWO!! Alexa survives but Asuka just fires up!
The fans rally as Asuka goes to the corner. Asuka climbs from the outside, and MISSILE- NO, Alexa dodges this time! Alexa kicks and DDTS! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Alexa drags Asuka into the drop zone. Alexa goes up, up, and the fans fire up! TWISTED- NO, Asuka moves, so Alexa stops. Alexa won’t let Asuka sneak away, but then she gets caught in an ARMBAR!! Alexa flails, rolls, but ends up in an omoplata! RINGS OF SATURN!! Alexa fights around, pops her arm free for a cover, TWO!! Asuka reels Alexa in, NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Alexa stays in this! Asuka fires up, the fans are with her, and she runs up, only for Alexa to ROCK her with a right! Alexa puts Asuka in the Tree of Woe, and she DROPKICKS Asuka out of it! Alexa climbs back up, and TWISTED BLISSÂ onto knees!! Asuka still counters the moonsault, and hits the EMPRESS IMPACT!! Cover, Asuka wins!
Winner: Asuka, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
The Empress says no one is ready for Asuka, and that has certainly been the case! But on Raw, we find out, will it be Jade Cargill or Roxanne Perez that meets Asuka in Saudi Arabia?
Jade Cargill, Mia Yim & B-Fab watch backstage.
And Fab says damn, Asuka just came back and she’s already making statements. Almost like she never left. Michin says maybe they need to make their own statements. They need to talk to Aldis about the tag titles. Fab agrees. Fab & Mia wish Jade luck before heading out. Byron walks in and asks if he can have a word. Jade says shoot. Byron says Asuka just advanced, but Jade has her match on Monday with Roxanne Perez. How does Jade feel about facing a talented competitor like Roxie? And how does she feel about the possibility of facing Asuka in the finals? Jade says “Rox” has potential. Roxie is quick and scrappy.
But she’s still trying to prove herself. And this isn’t a proving ground, this is a throne room, and Jade was built for royalty. As for Asuka, there’s a storm on the horizon. But news flash, Jade is that storm. This entire tournament wasn’t built for the future, but for a woman who can walk through fire, shatter glass ceilings, and take her crown on the way to the top. This Queen of the Ring, Jade isn’t just walking in to win. She’s here to reign. Will the Prodigy be washed away by the storm this Monday?
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)Â
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 PodcastÂ
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25
Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?
Last week’s episode was lacking in ring work but had decent story moments and segments. Starting the build to Slammiversary we can either launch nicely or things can always get worse. Jason Hotch and KC Navarro are the real shining stars of the last few months, so lets hope once they get over this Leon Slater idiot ship, they can push X Division wrestlers with actual talent for pro wrestling and not just flippy charisma vacuums.
Oh and let’s not forget, it is the episode they celebrate the 23rd anniversary of TNA! TWENTY – THREE!! Somewhere PCO hates this.
.@Kelly_WP is back in TNA Wrestling and has a message for TNA Knockouts World Champion @mashaslamovich!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZKKuL pic.twitter.com/tnm4TIuPUz
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Ratings:
- Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers: EY wins via Piledriver – ** 3/4
- Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge: Elegantos win via Rarefied Air – ***
- Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man: HTM wins via Cradle – *
- Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams: Elijah wins via Highwayman’s Farewell – ***
Results:
Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers
Sami knocks them all off the apron before the bell rings, he levels the loser children, finds a chair, attacks EY but EY counters and this is the excuse to use weapons since the bell didn’t ring yet. EY tries to break Sami’s hand on the steps with the chair, but Sami moves, throws EY back in the ring, bell rings and EY hits a Belly to Belly suplex for two. They slug it out, Sami goes for Headbutts, then Sami wants to run the ropes but a loser trips him, distracts long enough for EY to knock him out of the ring and loser children swarm as loser children do. EY does the classic, throw back out for losers to attack while EY grabs and distracts the ref. Sami is selling a few lame attacks from the losers like he got shot. It’s an excessive sell, so it’s honestly a dumb transitional moment.
EY levels Sami, Lariat into Scoop Slam, looks for the Macho Elbow but Sami hits the ropes to crotch EY. Sami Superplex time, but EY bites the face to make Sami drop, EY jumps at him but eats a straight right hand. Cactus Driver, but no, EY tries his Piledriver…they both gouge eyes at the same time, Sami catches an EY charge into a Flatliner as they’re both down…for…reasons? The selling in this match seems…poorly timed and kinda stupid. Hard Irish Whip, EY Flair Flips the corner, levels Sami, Macho Elbow for 2.9! EY threatens to hit the ref, but then goes to mad dog commentary. EY then wants to attack fans…he’s more unhinged than World Elite EY. Sami gives him the old Dick Twist into a Stunner but only for two! Losers try to distract, first one gets taken out, second one uses a chair, EY hits the Piledriver on Sami, EY wins.
I feel like this is gonna continue for a few weeks since it wasn’t a clean win.Â
Mustafa Ali’s group comes out, and I refuse to say the name because it’s dumb and they’re already fraying at the seams. Ali wants an apology session, Tasha and Hotch apologize to him but Skyler bites back and refuses, even shoved Ali. So Ali challenges him to a “Call to Arms” match. What in the hell is a Call to Arms match?Â
Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge
ASH does her borderline racist fake karate before Lei stares her down and tags in Heather. Heather avoids Lei, Lei throws a few Tornado Kicks to make a point and Heather tags out. Heather being 4’8″ helps her here. Concierge says “There’s no Karate in wrestling”. ASH, Lei and Masha are in the ring, ASH is trying to decide who she wants to face, but the Concierge google translated it and hands it to ASH, before the face team rocks ASH. Masha lifts up Lei and Lei does the Liu Kang Bicycle Kick, steering more into her Mortal Kombat aesthetic. Senton off the apron from Lei and Masha dives into the pile, the comedy heels are getting leveled. We go to commercial and come back with Lei getting Double Teamed but she spins it into a weird Neckbreaker..but can’t tag out just yet. Lei blocks Heather, Enzuigiri, simultaneous tag, Masha is Yakuza kicks for all and the 2 for 1 Lariat/DDT special. Near fall, but Masha goes for murder, but Heather breaks it, Rocket Launcher/Code Breaker from Elegance but Lei breaks up the pin. ASH tries to intimidate Lei with her fake Karate before throwing her out of the ring. Heather hits Lei with a handful of Glitter and then bounces her face off the post. Masha tries to stop ASH, Kelly’s music distracts Masha, Rarefied Air gives ASH the win.
Santino comes out and GOD DAMMIT no one wants to see Tommy Dreamer fight Mance Warner…that’s a useless thing. Pivot away…no one wants this. Oh no, now we have to listen to Steph talk too. Okay it seems to be a pivot, thankfully. Steph and Mance talk shit, Dreamer says something about Something is gonna happen…and Jake Something comes out. So…I guess we’re gonna build him up for 2 months and then job him out for 6 before he fucks off to his home galaxy or whatever?Â
.@indi_hartwell has a run in with Tessa Blanchard!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZLikj pic.twitter.com/I6UCCk2fAG
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Really wish Indi just opened with the Billy Butcher classic of, “Oi Cunt!” – but this wasn’t bad.Â
Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man
I hate… Cardona so much more now. Heel reasons for Cardona…go away heat for Deaner.
JDC wants the Home Town Man to start…and Deaner does his stupid Flip Flop and Fly, Cardona tags in, JDC is eating some offense, Cardona wants the Reboot, JDC powders, Cardona Dives but then Lish and the general numbers catch up to Cardona. Eddie is legal, and now they isolate Cardona with some decent tandem work and isolation. This turns into kind of a schmoz, lots of silly spots, near falls and then Home Town doofus gets the cradle pinfall on Eddie.
Whenever Deaner is involved I can’t be asked to care. The System beats Cardona and Deaner down, but Eddie did eat a pin. Which is embarrassing not even for work reasons, like it’s just sad.
Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams
Elijah and Nic start things off, slow push off, arm wring, top wristlock, simple chain wrestling start. Nic breaks the chain and hits a Dropkick, Elijah runs the ropes and hits a Diving Lariat and starts the Rope Walk. Nic seems far to awake and alert for that move then, I hate how people pull that off too early. Wentz gets tagged in, Nic tags in Maclin who wasn’t looking for a tag, but him and Wentz have a nice clash, Trey tags in, they try to double him, but they pause and look at each other. Maclin asks for a tag, no one tags him so he Chops Ryan to tag him in and throws him in.
The little nod to Maclin and Rascalz history and the fact the faces realize Maclin isn’t a piece of shit. A little MCMG homage tandem attacks on Ryan, Wentz punctuates with the Handspring Knee Lift, Ryan tags out to Trick. Trick and Wentz go back and forth, Rascalz have Trick eating offense, Moose tries to slow things down, both Trick and Moose powder, Rascalz Double Golden Triangle Moonsaults. Trey gets tripped by Nic, Moose hits Lights Out, but there’s no referee so it’s a little chaotic.
Out of the commercial things are controlled kinda and we see a simultaneous tag to Moose and Leon. Leon comes out hot, level Moose with a Leg Lariat, attacks Nic Nemeth, attacks Ryan, and then Moose hits Leon with the Stun Gun. Moose looks to tag in Maclin but Maclin jumps off the apron. Trick takes the tag, keeps control, Trick forcibly tags in Maclin but Ryan tags himself in and pulls Leon to the Champions’ corner, Nic tags in and isolates Leon, with the Kaibas quick tagging and keeping Leon down.
Moose tags in, tries to Suplex Leon about four times but Leon stops it then counters the Suplex. Moose tries to cut him off, but the Champions distract the ref so the ref can’t see Leon tag out. Nic and Moose doubling up and Leon is the bump guy of this last portion of the match. Big Uranage from Moose…Moose looks for Lights Out but Small Package almost ruined things, Body Scissors Cradle, GAME CHANGER! Moose looks to hit a Jacknife Powerbomb but Leon turns it into a DDT. Maclin and Ryan start fighting, Nic Superkicks Maclin, Hendry and Nic tag in, Hendry is a house of fire. Sack of Shits for everyone! Nic, Ryan, there’s a pause when Hendry is face to face with Trick and Trick gets Uppercuts first then Sack of Shit! Standing Ovation on Nic, but Ryan blocks, Kaibas try a tandem attack but Hendry Lariats them both. Elijah tags in and is the maestro of the crowd and chopping Ryan to some fun. Ryan goes for a Polish Hammer but eats the Knee Lift. Signature spam time…
Ryan tries to use the International title but Maclin grabs the title away from Ryan, clocks Nic, Standing Ovation into the Highwayman’s Farewell. Champions lose!
Overall Score: 4/10
Well this was a rough one boys and girls. Sami and EY was just an overbooked shitshow, Lei Ying Lee is unfortunately in a spot where it’s obvious TNA has no clue how to use her, the Elegantos are the New Beautiful People, and I’m not mad at that. But you need to space out your goofball crap. You can’t have Elegance Clique, Home Town Moron and Santino in 3 consecutive segments. And if anyone goes “it was 3 out of 4” that’s doesn’t lessen my point, the beauty of Pro Wrestling being a variety show is…FOR VARIETY! When the lead match feels stupid because of bad pacing, poor selling and overbooking with two losers, it feels like a useless match with idiots, then comedy, followed by more comedy…you see how that’s literally NOT VARIETY.
Figure it out seriously. This was a disappointing episode. If you’re a casual viewer than it’s just chalk for TNA doing cringe and borderline goof crap since they’ve always steered a little more into the carny than other companies. But this show was…where’s Jisoo and Jenny? I feel like I need that gif:
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
 MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)Â
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 PodcastÂ
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!
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