Raw doubles down on contract signings!

Ahead of their Extreme Rules defenses, the WWE World and Raw Women’s Champions have to sign on the dotted line! Will there be two brawls in one night?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• The Viking Raiders VS Angel Garza & Andrade Almas w/ Zelina Vega; Garza & Almas win.
• WWE 24/7 Championship Return of the Truth: Akira Tozawa w/ Ninjas VS R-Truth; Truth wins and becomes the new WWE 24/7 Champion.
• Aleister Black & Humberto Carrillo VS Seth Rollins & Buddy Murphy; Rollins & Murphy win.
• Ruby Riott VS ???; Peyton Royce wins.
• 2v1 Handicap Match: Andrade Almas & Angel Garza w/ Zelina Vega VS The Big Show; Big Show win.
• Apollo Crews VS MVP w/ Bobby Lashley; MVP wins.
• Ricochet w/ Cedric Alexander VS Bobby Lashley w/ MVP; Lashley wins.
• Champions VS Challengers Mixed Tag: Drew McIntyre & Asuka VS Dolph Ziggler & Sasha Banks w/ Bayley; Ziggler & Banks win.

PLAY BY PLAY

Raw opens to CHAOS in the ring!

Samoa Joe was presiding over the Raw Women’s Championship contract signing, but it seems Bayley and Sasha Banks got the jump on Asuka before cameras were rolling! Asuka fights back as Joe shouts for security, and referees rush in before Asuka tears into the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions more. Joe calms down and welcomes the fans to the show. Our humble host is guiding us through this “very unique experience.” We were going to have both title match contracts signed at the same time, but Bayley and Banks won’t stop! They go after Asuka again! The refs hurry to pull the three apart from each other and Joe shouts they have three weeks left. This is combustible to say the least, but here comes the Show-Off!

Dolph Ziggler acts surprised by what’s happening as he makes his way to the ring. He swaggers in and picks up a mic as Joe starts an intro. Ziggler say she’s got this, and welcomes the “man with the audacity to not give me what i was owed. The most ungrateful man in the world,” the WWE World Champion for now, “the Colossus himself! The ferocious, monstrous, abominable Drew McIntyre!” McIntyre does make his entrance now and storms up to the ring. Bayley and Sasha return and shout at Asuka but Asuka shouts back. The brawling is forgone this time as McIntyre joins everyone at the table. Joe has Ziggler start.

“Drew, we all know you’re WWE Champion because of me. But let’s dive a little deeper.” Where would McIntyre be without Ziggler? Scratching and clawing his way out of obscurity. Telling anyone who would listen, “I had the world in the palm of my hands and I blew it.” So sad, really. But while McIntyre was shuffling around finding himself, Ziggler was here for 15 years, carrying monsters just like McIntyre on his back. Ziggler knows what McIntyre is willing to go through and to sacrifice for the title. But in the back of McIntyre’s head, he isn’t so sure. At Extreme Rules, McIntyre will hit Ziggler, Ziggler will get back up. McIntyre will give it everything he’s got but Ziggler will do what he does best: survive. And then, the 19 year redemption story disappears, just like that. Ziggler created McIntyre, and he will destroy him.

McIntyre’s response? He stands as Ziggler signs his part of the contract. McIntyre takes it, signs his part, and hands it to Joe. Then he sits back down and says it’s official. Passionate words there, Dolph. There was a time when they were like brothers. Yes, McIntyre was fired and went through hell to become the man and the champion he is today. What he learned is that this is more a mental game than a physical one. And he has figured out why Ziggler needs the title. Not just the ego boost, but because he hasn’t been the center of attention. Ziggler always drops the ball. Always a bridesmaid, never the bride. But at Extreme Rules, McIntyre will hurt Ziggler. Slaughter him. Ziggler will lose because of McIntyre.

But the only person who thinks he has a chance is Ziggler, so as “brothers,” McIntyre will do Ziggler a favor. Ziggler gets to choose a stipulation! Oh really? McIntyre wants to leave this in Ziggler’s  hands? There’s no third chance for you, Drew. Asuka speaks up, shouting in Japanese about Ziggler shutting up and choosing already. And as for Sasha, there’s no way she’s getting Asuka’s belt! Bayley and Sasha tell Joe to tell Asuka to stop. Asuka doesn’t care about all that and she signs her part of the women’s title contract. Sasha says Asuka isn’t facing the person she faced before. Sasha is the Blueprint, the leader, and the conversation. At Extreme Rules, Sasha becomes #TwoBeltsBanks when she wins. Then the double double champions are not only taking over both locker room,s they are taking over the whole damn company! Sasha STAMPS her part of the contract, and Bayley says that will be the horror show!

Asuka BOOTS Sasha and the brawl is back on! Ziggler SUPERKICKS but McIntyre blocks and dumps him down! Ziggler avoids the Claymore and runs for the hills! McIntyre says that was close. Ziggler, Bayley and Banks retreat for now while the champions are more than ready. Will both the Empress of Tomorrow and Scottish Stud stand tall after Extreme Rules? What will Ziggler choose as a stipulation to change that?

Angel Garza flirts with referee Jessika Carr.

Knowing she’s the official for his match alongside Andrade Almas, he offers her a night off instead. She refuses and says she’ll see them out there. Charly Caruso comes over and asks what that’s about, but Vega mocks her. Vega just wants fair officiating. What’s Charly’s actually question? Well considering they attacked the Street Profits, does facing the Viking Raiders mean they are hoping to become #1 contenders? Yes, it does. But then Big Show comes in and asks “Smurfette” that he’s pulling rank. His segment is next instead of theirs, because he has beef to settle with Randy Orton. Vega and her stable are obviously upset with “the Jolly Big Blue Giant,” but will they dare do anything to this angry giant?

Raw returns to The Big Show in the ring!

“Randy Orton! Come on down!” The Giant eggs the Legend Killer on to try and kill this legend. But instead of The Viper, it’s Vega’s stable. Smurfette, sorry for interrupting the interview but this is important business. You try him and that’s a mistake. DO you understand? Well Orton says Show is a legend, but… Don’t laugh or his fist will be down your throat. “I’ve got boots older than you.” But there’s still just one of you. You two should stand on each other’s shoulders to talk trash to Show. Garza still laughs. It doesn’t matter if Show is a giant or a legend. He will learn what the Profits will soon realize. BLAH BLAH BLAH! Does he want to fight or what?!

Vega says they will do Orton a favor and show them what happens when you disrespect Andrade and Garza. Show’s days are numbered. But say hi to Edge and Christian for them, in the retirement home. But then Ric Flair appears! The Nature Boy struts out onto the stage. “Zelina, you know how much respect I have for you.” But Flair needs a word with his old friend, a legend. No one is going to run Show’s career, focus it on the future, except for “the guy that has three great letters,” the Legend Killer, the Greatest Wrestler Alive Today, and the man that will take Show out whenever he feels. Show wants to know where Orton is but Flair says Orton will show up when he feels like it. Flair is doing the light work.

Flair knows Show has been making cartoons and Netflix shows. That’s great, everyone wants that spot. Show had his run, he’ll be in the Hall of Fame. But if he plays around with Orton, Orton will become an even bigger legend killer, and Show will be outside looking in, again. As for Zelina, go have fun at Show’s expense. Show eggs Almas and Garza on, they toy with him, but here come the Viking Raiders! Erik and Ivar brawl with Garza and Almas on the ramp! Raw goes to break as things get wild again!

The Viking Raiders VS Angel Garza & Andrade Almas w/ Zelina Vega!

Raw returns as Garza has Erik in a headlock. Garza taunts Ivar but Erik powers out and runs Garza over! Erik runs, Garza drops down, hurdles over, then spins Erik for a whip. Erik goes up and over, rolls and trips Garza for a dead lift waistlock slam! Vega is on commentary to speak to Show’s interruptions. She’s a business woman but she can give you the business. But in the ring, Erik puts Garza in the corner and tags in Ivar. Garza is fed to knee after knee! The crowd roars with the Raiders as Ivar covers, TWO! Ivar drags Garza up, snapmares and uses the Warbeard to scrub his face! The ref counts, Ivar lets up, and tags Erik in.

Ivar rams into Garza, then Erik RAMS into Garza. Erik lets up to tag in Ivar again, and then Erik rams into Garza again. Ivar RAMS Garza, covers, ONE! Ivar looms over Garza as Vega says the tag titles will look better on her team, not the Profits. Ivar throws Garza, drops an ax handle, covers, ONE! Ivar drags Garza up to an armlock, grinding a forearm into the shoulder. Garza fights his way up, but Ivar knees low and tags in Erik. Ivar scoop slams Garza, then Erik scoop slams Ivar onto Garza! Cover, TWO! Erik drags Garza up but Garza escapes the suplex. Tag to Almas but Erik hits him first. Erik grabs Garza, off come the pants! Almas sucker punches Erik, Garza SUPERKICKS! Cover, TWO! Almas basement dropkicks Erik away from the Viking corner then soaks up the heat.

Almas stomps Erik while the crowd boos. Almas tags Garza, they mug Erik and Garza stomps a leg. Garza uses a toehold in a cover, ONE, so he KICKS Erik while he’s down. Garza drags Erik from the ropes, covers, TWO! The crowd rallies up and Garza brings Erik up. Almas wants in but Garza clubs away on Erik first. Erik ROCKS Garza with a right! Almas tags in, and intercepts Erik with a shotgun boot! Tag to Garza and now they’re arguing again. Almas tells Vega to do something about Garza, and then he bails?! Vega hurries to work this out again, but Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Garza is throwing hands on Erik in an open corner. The ref counts, Garza lets up and turns Erik sideways for a KNEE! Garza brings Erik up to club him towards the corner. Vega says she’s the best manager because she got this team to stay together. Almas tags in and throws hands on Erik. Erik fights back and rocks Garza with elbows and shoves Almas away. Almas runs into Ace Ten Mao! Tag to Ivar! Ivar runs in but Garza tags, only to get run over! Almas scoops Garza for a sidewalk slam! Basement splash! Ivar fire sup and the crowd does, too. Almas runs in, Ivar cartwheels and clotheslines! Garza dodges once, but gets the seated senton! Vega is furious as Ivar drags Garza up and scoops him. Garza fights free, shoves but Ivar breaks the line! Handspring but into the dropkick!

Both men are down but the crowd rallies up. Vega says her team is just fine as Garza and Ivar crawl. Hot tags to Erik and Almas! Erik blocks Almas, Garza gets caught, the double stack for the POWERBOMB POWERSLAM! Almas is fed to THOR’S- NO! Almas escapes and feeds Ivar to a dropkick from Garza! Erik shotgun knees Garza, Alms gives Ivar CIEN SHADOWS! Erik grabs Almas, Almas has ropes! The ref counts, Erik lets go and Almas throws Erik out. Garza POSTS Erik! Garza puts Erik in, boot feint to ELBOW! Garza tags in, WING CLIPPER!! Almas intercepts Ivar, Vega’s team wins!!

Winners: Angel Garza & Andrade Almas, by pinfall

Vega is happy her team won, but she isn’t seeing the dysfunction for what it is. Will winning the tag titles save this team from self-destructing?

Ruby Riott tries to make a call.

Chances are, she’s trying to reach out to Liv Morgan after last week’s loss to Natalya and Lana. But as Ruby redials, the IIconics bad mouth the “little weirdo.” Some people don’t change, do they? After all these years, Ruby has no friends. Is this deja vu or something? Liv isn’t picking up her phone? Like not picking up a win. So she’s a loser, just like Ruby. Ruby zoned out because she was trying to remember who blew their tag title opportunity last week. Who was it? Peyton Royce? Billie Kay? Or both? Well they have each other! Yeah, sure. How about this? ne of you go to the ring and meet Ruby for a match, and then the other can pick up the friend Ruby beats the crap out of. Who’s up for it? Sounds IIc- Don’t. IIIII- NO! Right, okay. IIconic! HAH! Billie and Peyton are annoyed now, but will they be really upset when Ruby backs up her words?

Vega tries to stop her team from arguing.

It’s not easy. So in comes Ric Flair. He really liked the team out there, and what Vega was doing. He would like to talk with them, and they go off to who knows where. What kind of deal can The Nature Boy and La Muneca cook up?

WWE 24/7 Championship: Akira Tozawa w/ Ninjas VS R-Truth!

The Stamina Monster came away with this title not so much thanks to his shinobi students, but because Bobby Lashley bulldozed his way after Truth. Will Truth be able to get a fair fight in this rematch? Or will he be without his baby tonight?

The bell rings and Tozawa circles with Truth. They tie up, Tozawa rolls Truth, TWO! Tozawa backs down and Truth nods. They tie up again, Truth headlocks, but Tozawa powers out. Truth holds the ropes to break it down with his dance moves. Tozawa shows off some moves of his own as he powers up the chakra. But then Truth throws him out, and shows off more moves! Tozawa gets in, things speed up, and Tozawa holds ropes. Truth jammed his knee, but it’s a trick! HE rolls Tozawa, and WINS!

Winner: R-Truth, by pinfall (NEW WWE 24/7 Champion)

THIRTY SEVEN TIME CHAMPION!! The 24/7, 48-7, 7-11, I-95 SOUTH, European Television Champion- GETS ROLLED UP BY NINJA #1!! TWO!! Ninja #2 runs in. Truth dodges, but has to worry about the third! They go around the timekeeper’s area and to the backstage area! Will Truth survive this chase through the Performance Center?

MVP and Bobby Lashley talk backstage.

The Rocky Mountain Machine wants his manager to understand, Apollo Crews disrespected MVP and thereby disrespected Lashley. There better not be another offer to Apollo. No, no, that offer is dead. As dead as Apollo staying United States Champion. Apollo disrespected and OG, MVP respects that. SO before taking everything from Apollo, they’re going to drop some gems so Apollo can learn from his mistakes. Will MVP and Lashley teach Apollo a lesson he won’t forget?

Seth Rollins and Buddy Murphy are also backstage.

The Monday Night Messiah tells his disciple that this is Rollins’ most important message to date. He has to deliver it now, before we all lose that chance. Rollins heads to the ring, and we’ll hear that message after the break.

Raw returns to Seth Rollins heading to the ring.

With the Mysterio mask in hand, Rollins and his disciple appear before the booing crowd. Things have gotten very personal and very dicey as of late, and Rollins has a mic. The crowd chants “You Suck!” but he doesn’t let it bother him. “Last week, Rey Mysterio, along with his son Dominik, made a very heartwarming return to Monday Night Raw.” Rey stood right in this ring and said nothing was going to stop him from exacting revenge on Rollins. He believes that with all his heart. But so does Rollins. Because Rey has “a duty to uphold.” The problem is, to put it delicately, Rey hasn’t been seeing things clearly. Rey thinks his duty is to the family, to protect them. But Rey’s duty is to be a sacrifice for the sake of Raw! Rollins has given Rey every chance to do this on his own terms, walk away into the sunset, and he has defied Rollins at ever turn!

What Rollins must do now is so important. Rollins tells Rey through the camera, “I need to ask you to forgive me.” He is begging for Rey’s forgiveness. Not for what he has done in the past, but what he is forced to do in the future. We are BOUND by fate! As fate would have it, Rollins is the Monday Night Messiah! As fate would have it, Rey is meant to be the sacrifice for the greater good! And so YES, Rey will step foot in this ring again. And every single time he does, Rollins will be forced to take a piece of Rey. Little by little, he will tear Rey apart, until there is nothing left but a memory. But then Rey speaks on the titantron. Rollins wants Rey’s forgiveness? Rey asks for forgiveness, but not from Rollins. From Dominik.

Rey hopes his son will forgive him for what he’ll do to Rollins. Rey was angry when Dominik tried to fight his battle, but he understands and loves him for it. But now, Rey must do something to Rollins that is just as awful. So Rollins, remember. An eye for an eye. Believe Rey when he says what he does to Rollins isn’t by fate. It is by design. Dominik forgives his father, but will never forgive Rollins. Because what his father does will never be forgotten, and that will be ordained by fate. Bravo, bravo! Strong words! Clearly Rey has taught Dominik well. But there’s one lesson left: Be careful what you wish for. If they continue to stand in the way of the greater good, Rollins will be forced to end Dominik’s career before it even begins. But first, Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo appear! The allies of Mysterio are here to confront Rollins and Murphy! Will they pave the way for Rey’s revenge?

Raw returns with Rollins and Murphy still on the outside.

“Ah, yes!” Just the two he was hoping to see. But before he and Murphy put Aleister and Carrillo out of their miseries, he asks why. Why do they keep standing up for Mysterio? Why do they keep fighting his battles when he won’t fight for them? Why is Mysterio Carrillo’s hero? Why does he look up to him like a GOD when he’s a coward? NO! Mysterio is no coward. Rollins is a coward! Rollins is half the man Mysterio is. Aleister says he knows a thing or two about evil. He recognizes evil when he is looking at it. So know there will be no forgiveness, but only atonement for what he has done. Rollins says they think they know evil. They ain’t seen nothing yet! This ends NOW!

Aleister Black & Humberto Carrillo VS Seth Rollins & Buddy Murphy!

The bell rings and Aleister dodges Murphy’s knee to throw hands! Aleister kicks away then whips, to kitchen sink knee! Rollins gets away from Aleister, so Aleister Penalty KICKS Murphy down! Rollins runs in but gets a ROUNDHOUSE! Murphy tackles Aleister to the corner and rams his shoulder in! Aleister BOOTS back! Then hops up, only for Rollins to trip him up! SUPERKICK from Murphy and Aleister tumbles out of the ring. Rollins tags in and goes after Aleister with stomps and kicks at the barrier! The ref counts, Rollins puts Aleister in and brings him up for haymakers. Aleister staggers to a corner and Rollins throws forearms and body shots.

Rollins whips corner to corner hard and Aleister hits buckles to then hit the mat. Rollins slaps Aleister around then digs his knee into Aleister’s head! The ref counts, Rollins stops at 4, then tags in Murphy. Murphy mugs Aleister with Rollins, but the ref counts. Rollins goes to the corner and Murphy drops knees on Aleister’s back. The crowd rallies up as Aleister endures the half camel clutch. Aleister fights his way up but Murphy pulls hair. Aleister back elbows out hard! Both men fall, Carrillo tags in! Ultimo Ninja rallies on Murphy and bumps him off buckles. Carrillo stomps away on Murphy but Rollins rushes in. Carrillo runs him off but Murphy sucker punches Carrillo! Carrillo comes back, Murphy ducks one kick but not the enziguri!

Carrillo whips, Murphy reverses, but Carrillo springboard crossbodies! Cover, ONE! Rollins runs in but is thrown right out! Murphy puts Carrillo on the apron but Carrillo enziguris again! Carrillo climbs, missile dropkick! Murphy ends up on ropes, but Rollins saves him from a 619! Rollins gets up but gets a BOOT! Carrillo runs and triangle FLIES! BIG plancha and Carrillo wipes Rollins and Murphy both out! The crowd is thunderous as we go to break!

Raw returns and Murphy blocks a kick to trip Carrillo. Carrillo boots Murphy away, Rollins tags in and he brings Carrillo up. Back suplex but Carrillo escapes. Rollins blocks a kick but gets the dragon whip kick! Both men are down and the crowd fires up again. Carrillo reaches but Rollins keeps him from Aleister. Murphy tag sin, but so does Aleister! Aleister BOOTS Rollins, dodges Murphy then rallies with big forearms. Aleister sweeps the legs and hits the knee thrust! Kip up! Rollins runs in, Aleister counter strikes, then DOUBLE QUEBRADA! Aleister slashes the throat and lifts Murphy, but Murphy rolls him! TWO, but Carrillo tags in. Aleister boots then KNEES Murphy! Carrillo gives him a 619!! Cover, Rollins breaks it at the last second!

Aleister throws Rollins but Rollins throws him out. Rollins DIVES and sends Aleister into barriers! Carrillo wrecks Rollins, but Murphy KNEES outta nowhere!! Cover, Aleister breaks it! Aleister drags Murphy out but Murphy boots him away. Murphy goes up top, Carrillo intercepts and the two brawl. Murphy clubs Carrillo, sunset flips but Carrillo stays up. So Murphy tucks him in, SUPERKICK! Rollins tags in as Murphy brings Carrillo out, KNEE STRIKE DOOMSDAY! Cover, TWO!?! Carrillo survives “the greater good” and Rollins can’t believe it! But he’s also rather delighted as he gets to keep hurting Carrillo. Aleister goes after Murphy, Carrillo rolls Rollins! TOW, CURB STOMP OUTTA NOWHERE! Cover, Rollins & Murphy win!

Winners: Seth Rollins & Buddy Murphy, by pinfall

But the brawling continues! Aleister goes after Rollins but Murphy goes after Aleister! Rollins helps throw Aleister out, then Murphy brings Aleister up. They dump Aleister into the timekeeper’s area! Then they go after Carrillo. “You wanna stick up for Rey Mysterio?” Then bad things will happen! But Carrillo fights back! He boots Rollins, pushes Murphy into barriers, then fires off hands. But Murphy takes the steps and RAMS Carrillo down! Rollins has a sinister smile, and he grabs the stolen Mysterio mask. “You wanna be a hero?!” Rollins makes Carrillo wear the mask, “You look just like your idol!”

Murphy drags Carrillo to the base steps, and Rollins says this isn’t just for Carrillo’s own good, but the GREATER good! Carrillo fights the step gouging, and Aleister makes the save! Aleister goes after Murphy and BOOTS him away. But Rollins CURB STOMPS Carrillo to the steel steps! It wasn’t the eye gouging he wanted, but Rollins has crushed one of Mysterio’s allies. Will this day of reckoning be the end of the Lucha King or the Monday Night Messiah?

Asuka and McIntyre talk backstage.

The Raw Women’s Champion tries to get the world champion to understand how badly she wants after Sasha and Bayley, and he understands. But Sarah asks about the double contract signing turning into a mixed tag match. What do they hope to gain ahead of the PPV? Asuka rants in Japanese, but McIntyre says it in English that the honorary Empress of Claymore Country is going to have some fun ahead of the title match. And Ziggler claims to know McIntyre, thinks he’ll get an advantage. And as for why McIntyre is allowing Ziggler to decide a stipulation, it’s so that when McIntyre wins, Ziggler will have no one left to blame but himself. And as for Sasha, she is not ready for Asuka. Asuka says Ziggler is not ready for Drew! The champions are on the same page already, will they be able to gain a huge advantage this far removed from Extreme Rules?

Raw recaps SmackDown’s Tribute to The Undertaker!

Truly one of the best, a true constant of the WWE that also evolved and adapted to keep going. “You can’t do what he did and not love this.” He put it above all else, and we are all fortunate to have witnessed such a career. For a legendary 30 year run that will never be rivaled and never be forgotten, #ThankYouTaker!

Ruby Riott prepares for her match.

And Lana comes by. She saw how the IIconics treated her, and Lana couldn’t believe it. How rude! It must be hard not having any friends. Lana, whatever you’re selling, Ruby ain’t buying it. Shouldn’t Lana be off “ruining another promising career?” Just leave her alone. Ouch~. Lana is just trying to help. She was so depressed, couldn’t even get off her couch, eating popcorn and couldn’t even motivate herself to make a new Tiktok video, and someone reminded her who she is and what this Women’s Division is about.

Does Ruby know that “this woman” has more wins than any other woman in WWE history? Yes, more than Trish Stratus, Lita, Charlotte Flair or Becky Lynch. Incredible. We need a leader like her! This woman has even more wins than the current Raw Women’s Champion, Asuka! This woman is someone we can believe it. It’s Natalya. Ruby still shrugs off the sales pitch, but will she be able to focus on whichever IIconic opponent she’s up against?

Injury update on Charlotte Flair.

After the incredible battle against Asuka last week, followed by the brutal attack from Nia Jax, The Queen has a fractured collar bone and will be out for some time. When and where will Charlotte return for revenge on the Irresistible Force?

Ruby Riott VS ???

No friends but plenty of enemies, and we’re about to find out which one steps up to the plate. It is the Venus Flytrap, Peyton Royce! But will Billie Kay still be a factor being in Peyton’s corner?

The bell rings, Ruby and Peyton circle and Peyton talks some smack. Billie distracts Ruby and Peyton blindsides Ruby with a heel kick! Peyton clubs Ruby and kicks her to a corner while Billie cheers. Peyton wrenches the arm and yanks Ruby down to the mat. Peyton drops knees on the arm and then again. Cover, ONE, and the IIconics are annoyed already. Peyton kicks the bad arm at the ropes, then puts Ruby in a corner. Peyton wraps the arm on the ropes and digs a boot in! The ref counts, Peyton lets up but Ruby hits back. Peyton kicks Ruby down and digs her knee into the ropes! The ref reprimands but Billie mocks Ruby as Peyton wrings her out. Peyton hammerlocks and sits on Ruby to wrench the shoulder.

The crowd rallies as Ruby endures and fights her way up. Ruby reaches back, elbows Peyton over and over, but Peyton stays camped on, for a back suplex onto the bad arm! Cover, TWO! Billie is annoyed for Peyton but Peyton is pretty upset as it is. Peyton stalks Ruby to a corner, but Ruby dodges her attack! Ruby dodges, mule kicks and front kicks! Peyton swings but Ruby catches the arm to fire off forearms! STO! Cover, TWO! Ruby clutches the bad arm but Billie tells Peyton to walk it off. Ruby brings Peyton up with the good arm, wrenches, but Billie distracts again. Ruby runs her off but Peyton O’Conner rolls! TWO, GHOST PIN! TWO! Peyton gamanguris Ruby, then brings her up for an ANARCHY SUPLEX! Cover, Peyton wins!

Winner: Peyton Royce, by pinfall

Bilie celebrates with her bestie, and mocks Ruby’s pain at the same time. With enemies like these, can Ruby find a friend?

Backstage interview with Big Show.

After the confrontation earlier tonight, The Giant now has a handicap match on his hands. Because of the new association with Flair, is this a trap to set him up for Orton? Well it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that one out. Flair has always been the Dirtiest Player in the Game. Show grew up in South Carolina, so Show saw Flair as a hero. A 13 year old boy at that time saw Flair as the man! He was the “jet plane flyin’, limousine ridin’,” man, the myth, the legend! But Show got in this business, and learned Flair really was the dirtiest player in the game.

And once again, Flair’s mentoring the Apex Predator, making Orton the most dangerous man the WWE’s ever seen. Orton has taken out legends, he has Show in his cross hairs, but Show welcomes that challenge. “Come try me, Randy Orton!” Step into the ring and find out why he is The Big Show. As for Almas and Garza, Show isn’t giving them the big happy Show, but the angry Giant! And Show is bringing that side to the ring, after the break!

2v1 Handicap Match: Andrade Almas & Angel Garza w/ Zelina Vega VS The Big Show!

El Idolo y El Latino have big mouths but also some big issues. The World’s Largest Athlete looks to make them big examples to The Viper, but will this all turn into a big mistake with Orton lurking in the shadows?

The bell rings and the duo sorts itself out. Almas wants a timeout to decide but Garza bails out first. Almas follows and they argue about who is first. Vega says one of them has to, and Almas says they’ll go in together. Garza agrees, but Almas fakes him out! Show corners Garza but Garza uses the corner as defense. Show tears the shirt off and CHOPS Garza down! Garza sputters as he flounders to another side of the ring, and then Show headbutts him down! Almas finally gets to the corner and looks to make a move, but chooses not to when Show stares him down. Show CHOPS Garza again, then tosses him out. Garza regroups with Vega and Almas, and Almas coaches Garza up. Or jsut wants him to still take the hits…

Garza does get in as the crowd chants for Show. Garza tentatively gets in, then tags Almas in! Show waits for Almas to step up, and the two circle. Almas gets a waistlock but there’s no lifting the Giant. Show powers out and bumps Almas away! Show puts Almas in a corner and CHOPS him! Almas feels that same sting and even Vega needs to take deep breaths. Show brings Almas up and in to TOSS him! Vega says the team needs to work together but Show keeps Almas from Garza. Show scoops and slams Almas down, then looms over him as he writhes. Almas crawls but Show steps on him! Almas tries to fight back with forearms and kicks but Show headbutts him down, too! Vega panics as Show brings Almas up for another headbutt! Almas flounders into Garza and tags him in!

Garza sheepishly steps back into the ring and Show gives him plenty of space. Garza is still very wary, and then leaps, into a hand! Show CHOPS Garza again! Vega is about to fall over from that one. Show whips Garza corner to corner, but runs into a basement dropkick that takes out a leg! Garza kicks away on the leg, then SUPERKICKS Show down! Show sits up but Garza hammers and stomps away! Garza doesn’t let off, except to brag. Almas tags in and Garza is upset again. Vega just wants them both to focus on Show but Garza tries to keep Almas from adding on. They argue, push, and Almas says this is HIS moment. Garza lets him have the moment, because Show gets up. Vega tries to reason with Garza, but Show CHOKE SLAMS Almas down!! Cover, Show wins!

Winner: Big Show, by pinfall

The Giant stands tall, having taught two youngins to respect the veterans. He adds on with the KO PUNCH! Almas is down and the crowd is thunderous, but Show’s wrath is not satisfied. Will Show get his hands on Orton soon enough? Or will he not see the three most dangerous letters coming?

Ricochet and Cedric Alexander check in with Apollo Crews backstage.

They know he’s ready for MVP, but Truth comes along with the 24/7 title. Is he okay? He look shook. Truth finally got away from Tozawa and his ninjas. Or did he? Truth is wary of Alexander and Ricochet, but they’re not shinobi. Sorry, Cedric the Entertainer. He’s just paranoid. This title comes with problems. But hey, it’s his favorite real-life superhero! Richard O’Shea! Apollo tells them it’s alright, you just gotta go along with it. Truth knows what it’s like to be a fighting champion, after all. “Y’all have no idea.” Well Truth runs off to keep his baby with him, but will Apollo be able to keep on his own run going?

Apollo Crews VS MVP w/ Bobby Lashley!

The invitation to join Montel Vontavius Porter’s team has been rescinded, but that doesn’t matter to the man who is finally champion. All that matters to Apollo is that he keeps putting up a fight, keeps winning those fights, and keeps the WWE United States Championship around his waist. Will he win this fight when MVP has the Rocky Mountain Machine in his corner? Or is MVP comin’ for that gold?

Before the match, Lashley grabs a mic to say something to MVP. “Before you teach Apollo Crews a lesson in humility, why don’y you illuminate us all on the reasons why you intend to do this?” MVP has a mic to respond. “It’s very simple. When I go home to Miami, the 305,” his whole block comes up to him and says, “MVP, you an OG, man! You made it out the hood! How can I be like you?” MVP says those are lofty aspirations to be just like him. But he can inspire them to do what he has done. What does all this success matter if you don’t give back? Which is why it has been an honor and joy for MVP to help Lashley bring out that potential!

Now, sometimes someone takes a heartfelt gesture and ignorantly rejects it. This is what Apollo has done. MVP is just trying to do that for Apollo. MVP understands this is Apollo’s first title, he’s riding high, MVP has been there. “But when one of the longest reigning United States Champions of all time offers to mentor you, don’t say no.” MVP will NOT be disrespected. Except he will be interrupted! Apollo comes out and even Lashley has to laugh at that one. Apollo asks MVP what he’s talking about. Apollo never disrespected anyone, and certainly not MVP. MVP is a self-made man, but so is Apollo. Don’t sit and give us a speech about giving back. If MVP cared about anyone but himself, he would’ve listened to Apollo the first time. But he didn’t. He kept pushing and pushing. Apollo gets right up to MVP and says that the only person MVP cares about is himself.

Lashley gets heated but MVP keeps him back. MVP admires this fire. But Apollo will find that while he didn’t want MVP as a mentor, he really doesn’t want MVP as an enemy. “Ring that bell, ref.” Lashley steps out, the US Championship is put aside, and this battle of veteran and young star begins!

MVP and Apollo circle, tie up, and MVP headlocks. Apollo powers out but MVP runs him over. MVP dances on Apollo, speeds things up, and fakes Apollo out. Apollo ducks the kick, pops up and huricanranas MVP for a dropkick! Apollo fireman’s carries MVP but MVP grabs the ropes. The ref counts so Apollo dumps MVP down. Lashley drags MVP out to help him up, but Apollo FLIES! MVP gets clear so only Lashley takes the hit, and then MVP rams Apollo into steps! The fighting champion is in trouble as Raw goes to break!

Raw returns and MVP has Apollo in a high keylock. Apollo endures as MVP leans on the hold. The crowd rallies, Apollo fights up and fights back, then runs, into a BOOT! MVP covers, TWO! He tries again, TWO! MVP drags Apollo around to trap the arms and add a dragon sleeper. MVP cranks Apollo’s head but the crowds rally up. Apollo fights but MVP clubs him down and drops a knee! Cover, TWO! MVP grows frustrated but brings Apollo up for forearms. Apollo CHOPS back, and the two brawl in the corner. MVP gets the edge with clubbing elbows. MVP whips Apollo corner to corner, runs in, but Apollo dodges! The boot gets hung up on the rope! MVP staggers but into Apollo’s haymakers! Apollo clubs away from all sides and the crowd fires up with him!

Apollo runs corner to corner to clothesline, then whips corner to corner to go again, BIG SPLASH! SPINE BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Lashley looks worried for MVP as Apollo goes to a corner. Apollo climbs up but Lashley gets on the apron! MVP runs the ropes to trip Apollo up! The ref warns Lashley but MVP BOOTS Apollo! Then PERFECT PLEX! Cover, MVP wins!!

Winner: MVP, by pinfall

The longest reigning WWE United States Champion just pinned the newest one! MVP is comin’, but Apollo goes after him! Apollo takes his frustrations out but Lashley stops him with the All Mighty Full Nelson!! Lashley thrashes Apollo as referees try to stop him! Cedric Alexander and Ricochet rush out to save their friend! Lashley won’t let go, and he even shakes them off! But the enziguri and springboard dropkick finally topple Lashley! Apollo’s allies dare MVP and Lashley to do something! Will something happen after Raw goes to break?

Ricochet w/ Cedric Alexander VS Bobby Lashley w/ MVP!

Raw returns and something is happening! The One and Only is brawling with the All Mighty in a match to defend Apollo’s honor! Ricochet rocks Lashley but Lashley shoves him away. Ricochet goes up and over and CHOPS back! Ricochet throws hands but Lashley pushes him again. Lashley catches Ricochet but Ricochet elbows back. Lashley sweeps the legs and MVP talks smack. Lashley brings Ricochet up and suplexes him. Ricochet sips out, goes up and around to enziguri, only to be caught! Lashley elbows Ricochet back then drags him up for a TOSS! The crowd boos but Lashley takes aim. Ricochet staggers up, and Lashley RAMS him into the corner!

Lashley looms over Ricochet and brings him up for that suplex. Lashley holds Ricochet up for 10 before slamming him down! Cover, TWO! Lashley grows annoyed with Ricochet, but he brings him up to throw him out. Lashley keeps the ref busy as MVP flapjacks Ricochet to the announce desk! Alexander protests but there’s nothing the ref can do about it now. The ref starts a ring count and it climbs to 5 before Ricochet sits up. Lashley goes out to fetch Ricochet, and throws him into barriers! The ring count starts again but Lashley puts Ricochet in the ring. Lashley stalks Ricochet, brings him up, but Ricochet throws body shots! Lashley shoves, scoops Ricochet, and pops him around for the DOMINATOR! Cover, TWO!?!

Lashley is furious as Ricochet gets to a corner. Lashley brings Ricochet up to TOSS him again! Ricochet flops to the apron and MVP tells Lashley to finish him! Alexander checks on Ricochet but has to back off as Lashley storms over. Lashley brings Ricochet up to TOSS him across the way! MVP says, “Show him!” Lashley scoops Ricochet, and POSTS him!! Ricochet flies off and hits the floor, Lashley gets back in the ring, just to refresh the count! Lashley drags Ricochet up and into the ring, then takes aim again. Ricochet manages to stand, Lashley runs in, but Ricochet flops back down. Lashley decides the Spear isn’t needed, he stalks Ricochet, to put on the FULL- NO! Ricochet is fighting it off! It’s only a half, and then Ricochet escapes! Ricochet dumps Lashley out!

The crowd cheers as this former United States Champion gets up and leaps! But into Lashley’s arms! And then into another fireman’s carry, only for Ricochet to slip out! Lashley posts himself! Ricochet gets in the ring, Lashley follows at the count of 7. Ricochet runs, springboards, LIONSAULTS! Cover, TWO!! Lashley lives but Ricochet fires himself up! Ricochet puts Lashley in a drop zone, goes up top, but MVP distracts now. Alexander trips MVP up! Ricochet leaps over Lashley, comes back, dropkick-flip and enziguri! Lashley wobbles into a SUPERKICK! Ricochet aims again, BUZZ- NO! The kick is blocked, Lashley reels Ricochet in, ROCKY MOUNTAIN SPINE BUSTER! Lashley is furious and demands Ricochet stand. Ricochet sits up, ALL MIGHTY FULL NELSON!! Ricochet taps, Lashley wins!

Winner: Bobby Lashley, by submission

But Lashley won’t let go until he’s satisfied! Lashley has his own blood pouring from cuts on his face, but he wants more! He puts Alexander in the full nelson!! Lashley thrashes Alexander until he’s down, and stands tall with MVP in the ring. Will MVP take Apollo’s title for his own? Will Lashley destroy all in his path to get back to the world title?

Dolph Ziggler talks with Sasha and Bayley backstage.

The Show-Off says this is going to work. This is a great team here. He’s a big fan of theirs, by the way. Going into Extreme Rules, they’re going to get into McIntyre’s head. He’ll take over, be a player coach of sorts. That’s so funny, Ziggler. Because the last time they saw him, he was on their show, SmackDown. And if they remember correctly, some mystery hacker exposed Ziggler trying to sabotage Otis x Mandy. In that same time, Bayley and Sasha have been dominating the WWE Women’s Division. Good point. The point being, don’t screw this up for Sasha! Ziggler understands, and is confident they’ll all be champion soon enough. The golden mixed tag main is after the break!

Champions VS Challengers Mixed Tag: Drew McIntyre & Asuka VS Dolph Ziggler & Sasha Banks w/ Bayley!

The Scottish Stud of Claymore Country teams up with the Empress of Tomorrow to give everyone a preview of “the horror show” of Extreme Rules. But the Show-Off still has a major decision to make, and The Boss has a golden insurance policy in #BayleyDosStraps. Chaos opened the show, but will it end the night in this championship crossover?

The teams sort out, and Bayley joins commentary to show she can do better than the Raw table just like she does SmackDown’s. McIntyre and Ziggler start and they circle. They tie up, Ziggler goes after a leg but McIntyre throws him right off! The crowd is fired up as McIntyre grins at Ziggler, but Ziggler gets up to go again. They tie up, Ziggler tries the other leg, but McIntyre still throws him off! Ziggler lands on his feet this time and says he knows McIntyre better than he knows himself. But McIntyre CHOPS him down! Guess Ziggler didn’t know that was coming. McIntyre bumps Ziggler off buckles then CHOPS him again! Ziggler flops down but McIntyre is still on him. McIntyre puts Ziggler through ropes but Ziggler elbows back! FAMOUSER! Cover, ONE!!

Ziggler keeps focus as Bayley brags for Ziggler, but McIntyre powers Ziggler away again. McIntyre eggs Ziggler on, but Sasha tags in. Asuka comes in automatically and Bayley says this is the real main event now. Sasha and Asuka egg each other on and start shoving. Asuka swings but misses, Sasha shoves and ducks, and things speed up. Asuka runs and runs Sasha over! Bayley is upset by that but Asuka keeps moving. Sasha dodges the corner hip attack and has things cool off. Asuka swings on Sasha again, but Sasha spins her for the chinlock! Asuka spins out before a Backstabber, and wants the Asuka Lock! Sasha reaches out to Ziggler, but Ziggler gets in, only for McIntyre to scoop him! Ziggler slips out, only to get a GLASGOW KISS!

Sasha gets free of Asuka but Asuka mule kicks and BACK HANDS! The challengers bail out and the champions stand tall! Bayley asks if Sasha is okay, and to a lesser degree if Ziggler is. The challengers regroup while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns once more, and Ziggler has McIntyre in a sleeper hold! McIntyre throws Ziggler off hard, but Ziggler is back again! Bayley is enjoying this, but McIntyre throws Ziggler off again. McIntyre runs in and elbows through Ziggler’s boot! McIntyre drags Ziggler up to CHOP him down! And then he lifts Ziggler, for the INVERTED ALABAMA SL- Into a victory roll! TWO, and Ziggler kicks. McIntyre blocks, Ziggler ducks the punch, and jumps to hit the satellite DDT! Bayley is pumped for her partner’s partner! Ziggler crawls towards his corner, hot tag to Sasha! Asuka gets in and dropkick Sasha first! And then pop-up KNEES! Asuka runs corner to corner, hip attack! Mule kick! SNAP GERMAN!

Asuka keeps moving, Sliding Wizard! Cover, TWO!! Bayley is relieved but Asuka won’t let up. Asuka fires up, the crowd fires up with her, and Asuka runs again. Hip attack sends Sasha down from the apron! Bayley distracts Asuka with neener-neener, and Sasha trips Asuka up! “Who falls for this?” Sasha hits APRON METEORA! She puts Asuka in, covers, TWO!! Asuka lives and Sasha is furious! Bayley is still confident as Sasha rains down right hands on Asuka. Sasha cools off but Asuka kicks back. Sasha stomps Asuka down, drags her up, and snap suplexes. Cover, TWO! Sasha drags Asuka back up into a chinlock but the crowd rallies up. Asuka endures, fights up and fights out. Asuka whips Sasha, Sasha reverses but runs into boots. Sasha turns Asuka sideways, STOCK DROP KNEES! Cover, TWO!!

Bayley isn’t losing confidence as Sasha still has this. Sasha paces about before bringing Asuka up. Sasha has a sleeper, then chicken wings. Sasha brings Asuka down for a motorcycle stretch! Asuka endures, but she fights her way back up. Asuka hip bumps out then kicks, only for Sasha to block and KNEE! But Asuka CODE BREAKERS back! Both women are down and the crowd rallies hard. Asuka and Sasha crawl, hot tag to Ziggler! McIntyre gets in and runs Ziggler over! McIntyre whips, and THROWS Ziggler overhead! Ziggler flounders into ANOTHER! McIntyre goes to the corner, goes up top, and aims for the falling ax handles! And the kip up! The crowd is thunderous again as McIntyre glares at Ziggler. Ziggler stands, McIntyre reels him in, but no Future Shock. McIntyre shoves, Ziggler tilt-o-whirls, but no DDT! McIntyre powers out, Sasha tags in!

McIntyre throws Ziggler out but Sasha gets in McIntyre’s face. “I run this place, I’m the Legit Boss!” McIntyre can’t touch Sasha, so he JABS Ziggler off the apron! Asuka slides in as Sasha is furiously shouting at McIntyre. Asuka stalks right up to Sasha, to ROUNDHOUSE! Cover, TWO!! Bayley is relieved but denies she’s nervous. McIntyre scoops Ziggler, but Ziggler slips out to POST McIntyre! Asuka drags Sasha up into the chicken wing, but Sasha drops down to victory roll! TWO, Sasha ducks the kick, TWO! CROSSFACE! The Bank Statement is on deep and Bayley is confident. Asuka turns, pries free, and hits a flying armbar takedown, into the ASUKA LOCK! But Sasha slips out before it’s on, has a cover, Sasha and Ziggler win!!

Winners: Sasha Banks & Dolph Ziggler, by pinfall

The Blueprint pins the Raw Women’s Champion!! It’s a tag team victory, but can Sasha do it all again when it’s just 1v1? And as for Ziggler, he survives the Scottish Stud, what stipulation will he cook up to ruin McIntyre’s redemption story?

My Thoughts:

A really good episode of Raw. They hyped up both the world title and Raw Women’s title contract signings, but I didn’t realize they were going to have them both at once. It turned out great, in my opinion. They probably didn’t need the chaos right at the very start but it was definitely a great surprise to open with. The promos were really good, the extra brawling was good, and the mixed tag main event that resulted was great! Bayley was hilarious and on point as a Heel on commentary, and it makes sense for the Heels/challengers to win now. The Faces/champions need to feel the pressure a bit. In McIntyre’s case, he’s still certain to win, even with Ziggler still poised to choose something crazy for their title match. Asuka might actually be the one in danger because the plan for SummerSlam could still be a huge Women’s Championship match involving all three brands.

It was good to have a replay of the Taker tribute video, and I was surprised they didn’t go for longer. Big Show getting involved with Zelina and her stable, which in turn means they’re getting involved with the Randy Orton story, is quite intriguing. Garza and Almas win the tag match with the Viking Raiders but their dysfunction costs them against Show, so the stable still hasn’t really gotten their footing. Though it feels like the stable is already over, and someone is turning Face. While Vega left with Garza as Almas was left high and dry, I feel like Almas and Vega should stick together as the original combination, and Garza finds a way to be the #LethalLothario as a Face.

Ruby has good story development with The IIconics and Lana, but I sense this all turns towards Liv coming to Ruby’s rescue at some point. The IIconics, Lana & Natty, and then a somewhat reunited Riott Squad become a Triple Threat Tag to determine WWE Women’s Tag title contenders, but not necessarily for SummerSlam or even Survivor Series. Truth wins again, but a part of me was hoping they’d stretch things out until the Swamp Fight match Strowman and Wyatt are having. Truth showing up randomly in that swamp would be an odd but hilarious cameo for something that is clearly meant to become “the horror show” part of Extreme Rules this year.

Truth’s bit with Apollo, Ricochet and Alexander was great, and their segment with MVP and Lashley was really good. MVP and Lashley both get really good wins tonight, and while MVP looks poised to get the US title, I wonder if Lashley starts to feel cheated that he doesn’t have a title when MVP promised him one time and again. Seth Rollins has a good promo, Mysterio and Dominik have a good counter promo, and then the tag team match with Aleister and Carrillo was really good. Carrillo getting stomped out, perhaps the Six Man Tag I predicted actually does have Dominik join in for his first match. That’d be pretty great, as it ties back to Dominik wanting to wrestle alongside his father at some point.

My score: 8.4/10