Coverage

Mitchell’s NJPW Summer Struggle Results & Report! (8/26/20)

It’s time for KOPW 2020!

Published

4 years ago

August 26, 2020

Steven Mitchell

The Summer Struggle returns with a special treat!

NJPW is on the road to Jingu Stadium! And that means beginning the inaugural KOPW tournament! What wild match types won and now dictate NJPW’s fate?

NOTE: NJPW no longer wants to feed AXS TV now that it is with Anthem and Impact Wrestling. But never fear, I will cover NJPW in the spirit of AXS in providing the most important matches of the show.

OFFICIAL RESULTS

KOPW 2020 No Finishers Match: Satoshi Kojima VS El Desperado; Desperado wins, by disqualification, and advances to KOPW Fatal 4 Way.
KOPW 2020 2-Count Pinfall Match: Toru Yano VS BUSHI; Yano wins and advances to KOPW Fatal 4 Way.
KOPW 2020 Submissions Match: SHO VS SANADA; Sanada wins and advances to KOPW Fatal 4 Way.
KOPW 2020 3v1 Handicap Match: Yujiro Takahashi, Gedo & Jado VS Kazuchika Okada; Okada wins and advances to KOPW Fatal 4 Way.

PLAY BY PLAY

KOPW 2020 No Finishers Match: Satoshi Kojima VS El Desperado!

The first match of this unique tournament’s maiden voyage is perhaps one of the more uniquely stipulated matches ever! No Cozy Lariat or Cozy Crush Dynamite for Kojima, and no Guitarra de la Muerte or Pinche Loco for Desperado! What will these two pull out with their best cards off the table?

The bell rings and fans rally already. Desperado tunes it out as he and Kojima circle. They tie up, Kojima pushes Desperado back to ropes, but Desperado turns it around. The ref calls for the ropebreak, Desperado pats Kojima on the shoulders. Then he kicks low and fires off forearms! Kojima forearms back and Desperado staggers! Desperado comes back with more forearms, Kojima ROCKS him again! Desperado stomps Kojima’s foot! Desperado headlocks, Kojima powers out, and the two ram shoulders but Kojima doesn’t fall. Kojima dares Desperado to try again, so Desperado does, and they ram shoulders again, but still Kojima stays up. Desperado dares Kojima to try, Kojima does, and Kojima runs Desperado over!

Kojima flexes the pecs before he stomps Desperado down! Kojima brings Desperado up for forerams, runs but Desperado uses the ref as a shield! Kojima stops in his track, Desperado dropkicks the legs out and down goes Kojima! Desperado drags Kojima out and whips him into railing! Desperado stomps Kojima’s legs then bumps him off the post! The ref reprimands but Desperado kicks Kojima in the leg! Fans rally up as Desperado brings Kojima around. Kojima fights back with forearms and elbows but Desperado hits him back! The ring count begins, Desperado whips Kojima hard into railing again! Desperado goes into the ring at 7 of 20 but Kojima stands up at 12! Kojima hobbles around and slides in at 17!

Desperado stands on the bad leg! Desperado taunts Kojima but Kojima gets the ropes. Desperado just puts the bad leg on the ropes to drop down on! The ref reprimands but Desperado stands on Kojima’s head now. Desperado mocks the weak heavyweight but fans rally up. Kojima gets up to hit back! Desperado kicks the bad leg, trips Kojima up and splashes down on the leg! Then a toehold and leg lock for a butterfly deathlock! The fans rally, Kojima endures, but Desperado drags Kojima in for a butterfly stretch! Kojima endures so Desperado keeps pressure on the legs. But that allows Kojima to get a ropebreak! Desperado gets help from the ref in undoing the leglock and he paces about.

Desperado drags Kojima from the ropes, but Kojima kicks the second try away! Both men end up in opposite corners, Desperado runs in but Kojima dodges! Kojima unleashes the machine gun CHOPS! Kojima whips but Desperado reverses to kick and uppercut back! Desperado throws forearms, runs but Kojima dodges to spin for a Cozy CUTTER! That’s still allowed! Fans rally up as Desperado gets to a corner. Kojima hobbles over to stomp and CHOP again! And CHOP! And CHOP! Kojima whips corner to corner, runs in and corner forearms! Kojima fires up and the fans fire up with him! Kojima climbs up, Desperado gets to the opposite corner, so Kojima has to hop down.

Desperado baits Kojima into the corner, blocks the boot then puts it on the ropes. Desperado runs side to side to dropkick the other leg! Kojima flops out of the corner, Desperado reels him in, but Kojima blocks the lift. Kojima fights free, swats Desperado’s clothesline away, but wait! There’s question if that was a haymaker or a lariat! The lariat is banned from Kojima’s move set! Kojima defends it was a punch, but then he kicks and DDT’s Desperado! Too late to make a ruling now as fans rally and Desperado rolls. Kojima stomps Desperado, drags him to the apron, and hits an APRON DDT! Desperado is down in a heap and the ref checks on him. Desperado is in pain but he’s okay to continue.

Kojima drags Desperado up and into the ring and fans cheer as Kojima climbs up top. Kojima leaps for an ELBOW! Cover, TWO!! Kojima keeps his cool and the fans rally up again. Kojima brings Desperado up for forearm after forearm, then spins, but Desperado ducks the rolling elbow for a SPEAR! Desperado drags Kojima up, Guitarra del ANGEL! Cover, TWO!! Into NUMERO DOS!! Kojima endures the modified Stretch Muffler as the fans rally. Kojima drags himself and Desperado over, to the ROPEBREAK! Desperado lets go at the ref’s count and fans continue to rally up. Kojima gets to a corner, Desperado slowly gets to his feet and goes to the other. Desperado runs corner to corner but is put on the apron.

Desperado grabs Kojima by his hair and brings him into the corner. Desperado talks trash as he climbs up, but Kojima powers up to break free! Kojima CHOPS Desperado, positions him up top and CHOPS again! Kojima climbs up now, cravats, SUPER COZY CUTTER! Cover, TWO!! Desperado survives Kojima’s powered up signature but Kojima keeps his cool. Kojima takes off the armband out of habit, but he remembers he can’t lariat! Desperado pokes him in the eye and drags him into a Mouse Trap! TWO, and Desperado drags Kojima up. Desperado tries to figure out what move he should do since he can’t use his finisher. Kojima breaks free first and fires off forearms! From all sides! ROLLING ELBOW! Kojima drags Desperado up, SNAP BRAIN BUSTER! Cover, TWO!!

Desperado survives but Kojima keeps on him with an armlock. He puts on the KAWADA KOROSHI! The seated arm triangle twists Desperado up but he reaches with his legs! ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Kojima lets go but keeps close to Desperado with the armlock. But Desperado drags the ref into it, and as Kojima drops, the ref gets tossed! The ref is down, Desperado is tapping but it doesn’t count! Kojima lets go in frustration but goes back after Desperado. Desperado DECKS Kojima with that punch! And with the ref down, Desperado hurries to use the forbidden finisher! But Kojima back drops out of Pinche Loco!

Desperado uses the lariat since Kojima can’t, but Kojima just tanks it! And then another one! Desperado taunts Kojima and tries again, but KOJIMA LARIATS!! Kojima gets disqualified!!

Winner: El Desperado, by disqualification (advances to Jingu Stadium)

Kojima doesn’t seem to care that he lost, because he at least got to clobber the arrogant Suzuki-Gun member. Will Desperado use this stroke of luck to take the KOPW trophy?

KOPW 2020 2-Count Pinfall Match: Toru Yano VS BUSHI!

Well, this is also a very uniquely stipulated match! You can’t wait until two for the pinfall, no matter how tired you are! Will this match be over in the blink of an eye?

Yano looks like he’s in a rush already just making his entrance and everything else. The bell rings, Yano has his spray bottle but the ref wants him to put that down. Bushi rolls Yano up! ONE!! Bushi swings on Yano, Yano dodges and SPRAYS Bushi in the eye!! Roll up, ONE! The ref reprimands Yano for still having the bottle so he tosses it to Bushi. Yano rolls Bushi up again, ONE!! Yano bails out, but he hasn’t won yet. The ref tells him to come back so Yano does. Fans rally up, Yano paces around the ring and Bushi waits. Yano gets on the apron and says Bushi has the bottle. Bushi hides it from the ref but Yano says he wants his bottle back. So Bushi SPRAYS Yano! Roll up, ONE!!

The ref finally grabs the bottle and puts it away while Bushi stomps Yano. Yano gets up to rake Bushi’s eyes! Yano unties the buckle pad but Bushi stops him part way. Bushi whips corner to corner, Yano reverses and finishes untying the pad! Yano dodges, Bushi runs into bare buckles! Roll up, ONE!!! Bushi bails out, Yano gives chase and clubs Bushi down. Yano puts Bushi in, covers, ONE! Another try, ONE! Another, ONE! Yano is shocked but he keeps on Bushi with a whip. Bushi reverses, Yano hits bare buckles and staggers into Bushi’s inside cradle! ONE!! Yano bails out but Bushi follows as the fans rally up. Bushi stomps Yano, drags him up and puts him back in the ring. Yano just rolls all the way to the other side.

Bushi runs around the way but into Yano’s atomic drop and shove! Yano has the tape! Yano used this to get a ring-out win on Bushi, but Bushi kicks him away to railing! Bushi gets back in the ring, builds speed and DIVES! Direct hit sends Yano into railing! Bushi has the tape now, and he ties up Yano’s feet! The ref reprimands but Bushi’s already strapped Yano’s feet together! Bushi stomps Yano, Yano apologizes but Bushi drags him up. Yano hops around as he’s put in the ring! Yano still apologizes but Bushi dropkicks the legs out! LA MAGISTROL, but Yano rolls it back, YANO WINS!!

Winner: Toru Yano, by pinfall (advances to Jingu Stadium)

Bushi can’t believe it! Using Yano’s tricks backfired and now Yano is going to Jingu! But can Yano get there with his feet tied up like that? Will Yano be able to win when it’s a Fatal 4 with normal pinfall counts?

KOPW 2020 Submissions Match: SHO VS SANADA!

The High Voltage half of Roppongi 3K has been quite the shock master but this match heavily favors Cold Skull! Will Sho have another trick up his sleeve to shock the world? Or will is his summer hot streak coming to a Skull End?

The bell rings and the fans rally as Sanada and Sho circle. They approach slowly, feeling out the grapple. Sho goes for a leg, Sanada facelocks to block but Sho slips out. Sho waistlocks and rolls, Sanada switches and gets a facelock. Sho switches, Sanada switches and facelocks again. Sho powers out to waistlock back and shifts around. Sho gator rolls then waistlocks but Sanada slips aorund and gets to his feet. Sanada goes for a leg, Sho facelocks, they move around and Sanada has a headlock. Sho powers up but Sanada hits a headlock takeover. Sanada grinds but Sho pops out to get a headlock. Sanada slips away, the two stand off and the fans cheer that technical exchange. Sho and Sanada reset as fans rally up.

The two tie up again, Sho tries for an armbar takedown but Sanada stays on his feet. Sanada drops Sho down, they knuckle lock and roll, Sho pushes Sanada down with his weight. This won’t be a cover but it’s an effective way to wear Sanada down. Sanada bridges up! Fans cheer as Sho hops off, Sanada blocks and monkey flips! The two are down, Sanada rolls back, blocks Sho’s monkey flip and hops on for his own attempts at a takedown. Sho powers through to suplex! Sanada lands on his feet and waistlocks but Sho standing switches. Sanada elbows Sho, runs, but into Sho’s hip toss to armbar! But Sanada moves fast to reverse the armbar! Sho gets the armbar back but they’re in the ropes! Red Shoes calls for the break while fans cheer this second technical exchange.

Sanada bails out to cool off but Sho keeps his eyes on him. Sho lets Sanada return, and the two go around again. Sanada and Sho feel out the knuckle lock, Sho breaks one to roll and wristlocks. Sanada drops, rolls but Sho spins through to wrangle Sanada down for a high keylock. Sanada moves around as Sho cranks the arm. Sho shifts to have a cording hold, Sanada kips up to arm-drag! Sho arm-drags right back to have the arm again but Sanada reaches up to headscissor! Sho pops out, Sanada hits another headlock takeover, but Sho headscissors! Sanada tries to pop out but Sho holds tight. Sanada keeps kicking but Sho squeezes tighter. Sanada bridges, moves around, Sho tries to keep him stuck, but Sanada rolls more to turn Sho over. Sanada has the legs for a Bow ‘n’ Arrow lock!

Sho pops out and gets up to boot, but into Sanada’s DRAGON SCREW! Sho gets to the apron to shake out the leg and fans rally up. Sanada hurries after Sho, gets the leg through the ropes but Sho fights back! Sho wrenches the arm for a hotshot shoulder breaker! Sanada falls down as he clutches the arm but Sho returns to go after it. Sho twists the wrist, pushes against the elbow and shoulder, but Sanada endures. Sanada stands, Sho cording holds again and cranks on the shoulder. Sho crisscrosses the arms and sweeps a leg for a modified STO! Sho goes right after the arm to hammerlock and crank on that arm. Sanada endures, reaches back but Sho bridges over to slip around again. The fans rally as Sanada endures.

Sanada tries again but Sho headstands, bridges and slips around again! Sanada gets up, Sho wraps both arms around Sanada and bumps Sanada’s shoulder off buckles! Sanada hobbles into Sho’s hammerlock again for another bump of buckles! Sho runs, Sanada elbows him down with the good arm and standing moonsaults! But Sho catches it into an armlock! Sho cranks on the Kimura but Sanada moves around. Sho turns Sanada over for an ARMBAR! Sanada clasps hands, Sho pulls on the arm and gets a short arm scissor instead. Sanada grows frustrated, the fans rally up and Sanada moves around. Sanada reaches for ropes but Sho throws him over! Sho cranks on the arm, Sanada moves around, they go around and around with armbars and school boys, and Sho still ends up on top!

Sho cranks on the arm, Sanada has the fans rallying more, and Sanada moves back to roll Sho up, for a dead lift ELECTRIC CHAIR! Both men are down and the fans fire up as they stir. Sanada stands first, throws forearms on Sho, then whips him to ropes. Sho reverses to forearm, but runs for Sanada to dropkick the legs out! Sho bails out but Sanada slingshots for a BIG PLANCHA! Direct hit and Sho goes down! Sanada fires the fans up and feeds off that energy. Sanada brings Sho up, puts him in and aims from the apron. Springboard but Sho gets under! Sanada runs back but gets buckles. Sho waistlocks, Sanada elbows out but Sho dodges the clothesline to SPEAR- No! Sanada tanks the Spear to facelock. But Sho suplexes instead!

Both men are down, fans fire up again and Sho rises first. Sho drags Sanada around by the bad arm, wrenches it and kicks away on all sides! SUPE- No! The superkick is blocked to a DRAGON SCREW! Sanada gets even with Sho by going after that leg! The fans rally as Sanada and Sho both sit up. Sanada heads over to Sho, drags him up, and puts the leg on the ropes. Sanada dropkicks the leg! Then he dropkicks Sho! Sho is still stuck in the ropes so Sanada LIONSAULTS him down! Sanada gets the leg, steps through, but Sho counters to a KIMURA! Sanada endures, Sho cranks harder, but fans rally again. Sanada gets to the ropebreak!

Sho lets go quick, but then drags Sanada back up and wrenches the arm, SHOULDER BREAKER! But not just once, but twice! THRICE! Three Shoulder Breakers in a row! Sho lines it up, Penalty Kick to the arm! Sanada staggers to ropes, Sho runs around to dropkick the bad arm! Sho runs, Sanada follows to elbow him at the ropes! Sanada runs but Sho follows to clothesline him at the ropes! Sho runs, sees Sanada following but Sanada ducks his clothesline! Sanada waistlocks, Sho standing switches, GERMAN SUPLEX! But Sanada lands on his feet! Sanada runs, Sho boots him away, but Sho runs into the huricanrana! Sho blocks it! And he swings Sanada up for a POWERBOMB! But Sho isn’t done, he dead lifts Sanada back up for the POWER BREAKER!

Both men are down again as fans fire up. Sho gets up first, drags Sanada up and reels him back in, crisscrosses the arms, but Sanada resists the lift. Sanada spins out, gets around and lifts like a back suplex, but for a DOUBLE SHIN BREAKER! Sho hits the mat and clutches his legs, but Sanada sets him up in the drop zone. Sanada goes up top, MOONSAULT but onto knees! Sho saves himself but it was double-edged given the state of his legs! Sanada grits his teeth as he sits back up. Fans rally as Sanada stands and Sho follows. Sho throws a forearm, Sanada forearms back. They trade more forearms, Sanada gets the edge, but spins into a KNEE! Sanada dropkicks the legs out again!

Sho wobbles, Sanada throws a European Uppercut but Sho counters to a backslide that he obviously gives up on, to reel Sanada in! Crisscross underhook, and SHOCK ARROW! Sho keeps on Sanada with a dead lift waistlock GERMAN! And another GERMAN! Then the third becomes the armbar takedown!! Sanada flails but doesn’t give up yet! The fans rally as Sho cranks harder on the arm! Sanada endures, reaches, moves around, but Sho uses a Triangle Hold. Sanada powers up to dead lift Sho for a POWER CUTTER!! A powerbomb turned into a cutter!! Sanada sets Sho up again, for a MOONSAULT to his back!! Then the FIGURE FOUR!!

Sho endures a different hold than he expected, but he pries at the legs! Sanada powers through to keep Sho locked up! Sho works to turn things over, but Sanada rolls through! Sho reaches for ropes, Sanada cranks harder, SHO TAPS! Sanada wins!!

Winner: Sanada (advances to Jingu Stadium)

Sho showed a lot of skill and heart, but he’s not where Sanada is in the submission game! Will Sanada be able to play that game when it’s a Fatal 4 Way?

KOPW 2020 3v1 Handicap Match: Yujiro Takahashi, Gedo & Jado VS Kazuchika Okada!

The Rainmaker knows Tokyo Pimp doesn’t roll alone, so he put this stipulation forward to at least have the Bullet Club back-up front and center. Will Okada regret stacking the deck against himself in the very tournament he suggested? Or will he defy the odds and put someone #DeepInDebt?

In this kind of handicap match, Bullet Club has to send one in at a time. After a Low Sweet, Yujiro steps up to start. Fans rally, Okada and Yujiro stare down then circle. Jado starts to sneak in and Okada is distracted. Yujiro kicks, clubs and whips Okada, but Okada grabs ropes. Okada boots Yujiro, scoop slams him then slingshot sentons! Cover, but Gedo breaks it! Red Shoes reprimands and Gedo goes back to the corner. Okada drags Yujiro up, turns him around and hits a neckbreaker! Cover, Okada keeps his eyes on Gedo and Jado this time, TWO! Okada cranks on Yujiro with a chinlock, but Yujiro BITES Okada’s hand! Okada doesn’t learn. Yujiro runs but Okada boots him!

Okada snapmares, runs, but Jado is there with his kendo stick! Red Shoes reprimands but Yujiro rakes Okada’s eyes! Yujiro distracts Red Shoes and Gedo has a belt strap! Gedo LASHES Okada! Bullet Club wanted a strap match, and Gedo gets to use it now! Gedo LASHES Okada again and Okada bails out. Jado goes after Okada with clubbing forearms and CHOPS! Jado whips Okada into railing hard! Okada is down, Gedo and Jado taunt him while Yujiro grins. Jado brings Okada up and Gedo LASHES him more! Yujiro keeps Red Shoes busy but Red Shoes at least heard that one! Red Shoes goes out to reprimand them, so Gedo “apologizes.” They put Okada in, Yujiro covers but Red Shoes refuses to count given the foul play.

Yujiro brings Okada up, snapmares and runs to basement dropkick Okada down! Cover, TWO! Fans rally for Okada as Yujiro drags Okada back up. Yujiro feeds Okada to Jado’s boot and Jado tags in. Jado drags Okada up, brings Okada around to headlock and scrape Okada’s face on the ropes! Jado drags Okada up to chinlock and punch away on Okada’s head! Red Shoes reprimands and counts, Jado gets in about a dozen punches before 4. Jado drags Okada up and clubs him on the back. Tag to Gedo, Gedo brings Okada up to rake his eyes! Red Shoes reprimands but Gedo whips Okada into the corner, that is now exposed! Bullet Club loves that trick, don’t they?

Gedo eggs Okada on but then stomps him down. Fans rally up for Okada but Gedo stands on Okada’s head. Red Shoes reprimands but Gedo raors like he’s already won. Gedo stomps Okada more then tags in Yujiro. Yujiro taunts Okada and slaps him around. Okada throws a forearm! And another! Yujiro rakes Okada’s eyes, has him on ropes, and BOOTS him! Okada flops down, Yujiro covers, TWO! Yujiro grows annoyed, but he bumps Okada off bare buckles! Tag to Jado, Jado and Yujiro double whip, and Yujiro mule kicks. Jado front kicks, and they double back suplex Okada! Cover, TWO! Jado grows frustrated now, tags Gedo, and Gedo toys with Okada as he kicks him around.

Gedo slaps Okada, Okada gets up to ROCK Gedo! Gedo rakes Okada’s eyes again, hits a jawbreaker, and powers up from a corner. Okada blocks the superkick to spin Gedo for a BOOT! The fans rally up but Gedo tags in Jado. Okada dodges Jado to fire off forearms and whip. Jado reverses but Okada elbows him down! Okada fires up for “K O P W!” as he DECKS Yujiro off the apron! Okada goes after Jado in the open corner and hits a big back elbow! Okada kicks, DDTs and covers, TWO! DEEP IN DEBT!! Gedo gets in to fish hook Okada’s face! Red Shoes counts, Gedo stops at 4. Yujiro tags in, he and Gedo double whip Okada to the other corner. Okada throws Gedo out to the apron, forearms him, then dodges Yujiro to send him into Gedo! Okada scoops Yujiro for REVERSE NECKBREAKER!

Yujiro writhes from the modified Air Raid and the fans fire up! Okada drags Yujiro up but Yujiro throws a forearm. Okada fires it back! Yujiro forearms, Okada hits back. They keep going back and forth, Okada gets the edge but Yujiro rocks him! Yujiro runs, into Okada’s scoop! Yujiro fights off the Tombstone and waistlocks but Okada elbows free. Okada runs into a SMACK from Jado’s kendo stick! Yujiro SPEARS Okada! Cover, TWO!! Okada survives and the fans cheer! Yujiro drags Okada up again to a fireman’s carry, but Okada slips off to throw forearms. Yujiro boots, Okada boots back! Okada spins Yujiro for an arm-drag, and DEEP IN DEBT!! Gedo gets in but Okada DECKS him! Okada elbows Jado down, dodges Yujiro to reel him in for DEEP IN DEBT!

Yujiro is caught, but Jado returns. Okada DECKS him, fires off on Gedo and EuroUppers him down! Okada runs at Yujiro, but into fireman’s carry, MIAMI SHINE!! Cover, TWO!?! Okada survives and Yujiro can’t believe it! Yujiro drags Okada up, Gedo and Jado return, and they whip Okada to the open corner. Gedo back elbows, Yujiro BOOTS, and Jado clotheslines! Jado calls for the Super Bomb, and Yujiro goes up. Gedo and Jado suplex Okada to him, for the SUPER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!?!? Okada survives the elevated triple bomb and Bullet Club is furious! Yujiro has Gedo go back while he and Jado drag Okada back up. Yujiro holds Okada up for Jado’s LARIAT! Cover, TWO!! Okada still lives and the Bullet Club can’t believe it!

Jado tags Gedo and all three stomp Okada down. Red Shoes reprimands but Gedo climbs up. Yujiro scoop slams Okada and Gedo leaps, FROG SPLASH! Cover, TWO!! Gedo is pissed and Yujiro gets in Red Shoes’ face. But this is all so Gedo can get his brass knuckles! Gedo loads up, waits for Okada to stand, but Okada uppercuts Gedo down! The knuckles go flying but Jado has the kendo stick! Okada dropkicks Jado down! Yujiro kicks and whips, Okada reverses and dropkicks! Gedo staggers around, pokes Okada’s eyes and whips. Okada ducks and FLIES out to take down Jado and Yujiro! Gedo realizes he’s alone now as Okada gets back up.

Okada shoulders into Gedo, but Gedo mule kicks the legs out! GEDO CLUTCH!! TWO!?!? Okada narrowly escapes and Gedo can’t believe it! Gedo powers up, SUPER- NO! Okada reels Gedo in, TOMBSTONE! Wristlock, DEEP IN DEBT!! Gedo taps out, Okada wins!!

Winner: Kazuchika Okada, by submission (advances to Jingu Stadium)

The Rainmaker succeeds in winning the gamble he put forward, and now advances to the finals of his invention! Will Okada also be the winner of KOPW 2020?

Okada takes the mic to address the fans as they rally behind him. He encourages them to keep it going so they do. Okada says he likes the rhythm they use to represent “O-KA-DA” in clapping since vocal cheering isn’t allowed. And then, for “KORAKUEN HAAALL~!” Okada asks if they liked the start of KOPW, and they applaud to show they did like it. He thanks the fans for being here for it, as well as the automated audio representing the NJPW app users liking it. The fans clap again and Okada soaks it up. And as for Jingu’s Fatal 4 Way, with Desperado, Yano and Sanada, “a bunch of villains and me.” The “Krooks of Pro-Wrestling.”

Of course, he promises to deliver “Kazuchika Okada’s Pro-Wrestling,” and that he will become the King Of Pro-Wrestling. KOPW is possible in part thanks to the fans, and Okada promises one way or another, it’ll be a lot of fun. And of course, he hopes to win and defend that “new kind of title” that truly includes the fans. If there are any problems, feel free to tell him. It is up to the wrestlers to make the KOPW worthwhile. So please, everyone here and watching at home, keep cheering and watch what they do next! That includes tomorrow’s return to Korakuen, and the finals in Jingu. Be ready to see who becomes the first ever KOPW winner, and thank you for today!

My Thoughts:

Summer Struggle returns to give us NJPW KOPW 2020 for a great event. An obvious great part of this KOPW tournament is the crazy stipulations. It’s rare there’s such a thing as a “No Finishers” or “2-Count Pin” match, so how great of NJPW to have those even be options. And it was actually very clever on that first one to use the ruling against one of the wrestlers. Kojima wins the battle but loses the war in a great match with Desperado, all because Kojima lost his cool. In a way, it keeps Kojima strong and Desperado basically gets lucky. Yano also technically gets lucky, a two count pin doesn’t give Bushi time to think after that reversal, and Yano wins. I do like the character work of Yano acting like there’s no time to waste. There wasn’t a short time limit, he just wanted to stay at a fast pace because of the shorter pins.

Sanada and Sho for being a Submission match, that was just a great match either way. Sho looks great but Sanada gets the win, and NOT with Skull End. And of course Okada wins his 3v1 handicap match. For one, that’s how his story with Yujiro was going to end, even without KOPW. But with KOPW on top, of course Okada as its inventor was going to win to qualify for the Fatal 4 Way finals. And in a way, 3v1 was a great way for him to prepare for such a match. I also like that in his promo, he plays with the acronym of KOPW, especially the two obvious ones of Kazuchika Okada Pro-Wrestling and King Of Pro-Wrestling. Though, I’m not sure Okada wins the Fatal 4 Way, that might be too obvious. I think it’d be great if Sanada, who is without title or story right now, became the inaugural Mr. KOPW, since he and Okada consider themselves rivals.

My Score: 8.9/10

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January 30, 2025

Andrew Balaz

Coming off the first Live iMPACT! in 8 years, it has been pretty universally agreed upon that it was not a bad show. Good favor, a larger audience then they’ve had in years and TNA actually did fairly well establishing themselves as not a third rate duelist.

Let’s see if the good tidings continue or if things start to well…TNA.

The official liaison between @WWENXT and TNA, @AriannaGraceWWE, was rudely interrupted by Tessa Blanchard while speaking with @MeanGiaMiller!

Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/9IIhMDrtkn pic.twitter.com/8ImgauBAiO

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) January 31, 2025

Ratings:

Cora Jade vs Hyan: Cora wins via Jaded – ** 1/2
Brian Myers w/The System vs Leon Slater: Myers wins via Roster Cut – ** 3/4
Laredo Kid vs Mustafa Ali: Ali wins via 450 – ** 3/4
Eric Young & Josh Alexander vs Sinner & Saint: No Contest? EY Turned Heel – N/A
Ace Austin vs Wes Lee w/Tyson & Tyriek: Wes wins via Cardiac Kick – ***
Kaiba Boys (Nic & Ryan Nemeth) vs Fir$t Cla$$: Kaibas win via Danger Zone – ***

Results:

Nic Nemeth comes out to talk, doesn’t complain and says he’s just gonna dust himself off and start again. Ryan comes out to complain on behalf of “hiissss brrooother” and run down Hendry. Nic is playing babyface still and Ryan is instigating is typical little brother fashion. Nic tries to appease Ryan saying this could be a big year for both of them, so Fir$t Cla$$ music hits and KC Navarro cuts them off and hands off to AJ Francis. Ryan get mad at them interrupting, Nic tries to calm the situation but Ryan decides to agree to a tag match that Nic doesn’t seem like he wanted to go there. But Santino comes out and makes it official.

EXCLUSIVE: @XiaBrookside welcomed @WWENXT's @CoraJadeWWE to #TNAiMPACT, but things got HEATED fast!

Don't miss #TNAiMPACT TONIGHT at 8/7c on @AXSTV in the US, @Sportsnet 360 in Canada, and streaming worldwide on TNA+!

Get 1 month FREE of TNA+ with code: NXTNA pic.twitter.com/LP8ghA78Pv

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) January 30, 2025

Cora Jade vs Hyan

Hyan tries a Pump Kick, Cora catches it, lays her out and kicks her feet up in the corner getting cocky. Snapmare with the Hair, into a Springboard Single Stomp from Cora, Hyan is getting throttled along the ropes and putting up much of a fight to start. Hyan is usually just enhancement talent in TNA, even though she does have a solid pedigree in the indies and internationally. Hyan finally moves so Cora smashes herself into the corner, Wasteland from Hyan for a 1 count, Cora counters Hyan’s attempted offense and then hits Jaded for the win!

The match did what it needed to, Cora tried to lay in the boots further, Xia runs out to make a save but Cora baits her into a false sense of security and goes after Xia. So Masha comes out for the save on the person who made the save. Cora comes off looking pretty good and Masha scaring her off helps Masha’s aura.

.@MeanGiaMiller tries to get answers out of @WesLee_WWE, @TyriekIgwe_WWE and @_Tysonwwe_ for his attack on The Rascalz ahead of Lee's match with @The_Ace_Austin TONIGHT on iMPACT!

Watch #TNAiMPACT now on TNA+: https://t.co/9IIhMDrtkn

Get one month FREE with code: NXTNA pic.twitter.com/UIU5GgiylE

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) January 31, 2025

Brian Myers w/The System vs Leon Slater

Myers grabs the quick Headlock into the Shoulder Tackle and welcome back to 1997 wrestling starts. Myers got cocky, shot Leon into the ropes and eats a Shoulder Tackle from Leon, so a little showboating from Leon gets under Myers skin and causes him to make a few missteps. Leon hits the Feint Mule Kick into the Handspring Back Elbow for 2, but when he tries to continue, Myers pulls him down into the buckles. Myers looks for a Spear, Leon Leap Frogs and Myers eats turnbuckle. He powders, the System shields him from a dive, and we’re starting to see the numbers game come into play.

A Thrust Kick from Myers rocks Leon as he’s coming back in, Strong Irish Whip into a Gator Roll and then Sleeper Hold. Again, offense brought to you by Bill Clinton. Leon gets away from the Sleeper, tries to hit the ropes and Myers does his Baseball Slide Trip. Slow heel moves from Myers, Sleeper, Facelocks, Back Elbows…just slow classic heel offense. Leon tries to fire, eats a Knee Lift. Irish Whip but Leon counters by hoping the ropes to the apron, quick pop shot and then Springboard Crossbody into a series of Lariats and a Shotgun Kick! Leon has the momentum, Blue Thunder Bomb for two! Leon goes to the top, Myers is up, Leon rolls to the other side to avoid Myers, Myers eats a Leg Lariat from Leon and Myers pushes off, Bicycle Kick, Thrust Kick into Implant DDT for only two! Myers looks to Spear, gets rolled up in a Small Package, Kick out, dumped outside, Leon flies over the corner onto Myers!

System surrounds Leon, tries to get a few shots, but Leon has some quick offense for everyone. In the chaos, Lish puts a Ring on Myers’ hand so a Loaded Punch into Roster Cut and Myers wins!

Laredo Kid vs Mustafa Ali

Slow start with Ali being arrogant into a Lucha stalemate section where there’s Satellite counters, Headscissors and a powder to break the nonsense. Corner counters, Overhand Chops from both, they tussle on the top rope, Ali backflips off the ropes, Laredo tries a Crossbody but Mustafa hits a Dropkick. Grounded Abdominal Stretch from Ali, Laredo tries to fight up and out, but Ali slams him back down, talks smack, slaps him and then eats a Michinoku Driver out of nowhere! But only a two count! Ali manages to pull Laredo into the corner pads, tries a dirty pin with feet on the ropes but the referee sees it, Laredo tries a Roll-Up in the disarray, Ali kicks out, they run back and forth, Ali just slides out thinking he’s outsmarted Laredo but Laredo hits the Suicida for a solid pop. Ali pokes the eye and grabs at the mask, Laredo is off kilter, Ali baits Laredo through the corner, hits the Draping DDT off the apron, slides Laredo back in and 450 for the win.

Eric Young & Josh Alexander vs Sinner & Saint

Jabroni duo comes out, and they look stupid, their music is generic Hot Topic trash and the one with hair walks like he’s pretending to be a Delirious fused with a Dinosaur. They look so insanely pathetic.

Dino-nerd tries a stand switch and suplex but Josh no sells and looks like the older sibling judging the little sibling’s stupidity. Bald jabroni tags in, does nothing, blind tag just for Josh to single handedly lay both out. Of course they’re trying to establish the loser squad, so the eventually have a good defensive moment that catches Josh and isolates him in their corner. He still mostly takes care of both of them. This is honestly pathetic.

Locomotion counter switches in the corner before a Shotgun Kick wipes out Josh, Dino-nerd tries a Lio Rush style splash but misses, Josh tags out, EY looks to tee off but he turns and lays out Josh. EY turns heel…that was not on my Bingo Card, but I’m not mad about it. EY has the maniacal look in his eyes again, so Sanity or Violence by Design could be back? Can he call the group SAnitY since they’re working with WWE now?

Ace Austin vs Wes Lee w/Tyson & Tyriek

Things start slow then a few quick strike spots from Ace. A grounded Heel Kick and Enzuigiri rocks Wes, Wes slingshots back in, Sunset, Ace dodges tries to stay crouched to get cute but Up Kick from Wes kicks Ace in the face. Wes crotches Ace on the top rope, Enzuigiri, Suicida leaves Ace laying on the ramp. Wes hits the Street Fighter combo in with Ace shoved in the corner, the crowd chants “Boring” so Wes revels in the negativity and mockingly does the Rascalz taunt. A few quick shots and Ace kicks out at one and holds the ropes as Wes just lights him up with kicks. Ace asks for more, and goes full Strong Style. A few round kicks to the chest before Wes decides to do the hell thing and a Spinning Thrust Kick to the side of the face. Wes puts Ace in a Key Lock and Ace struggles to his feet before barely slipping the lock.

They trade strikes, Triangle Kick misses for Ace but he manages to connect after with a strike, a few more, Click Click Boom, Seated Miz Lariats in the corner, Wes falls out of the corner, Triangle Kick for the near fall, but the offense isn’t over and Ace hits the Gutwrench Sitout Powerbomb! Ace looks for The Fold, Tyson and Tyriek make their presence felt, Ace does the apron dance and kicks them both in the face. Wes gets dumped out of the ring, Ace with a Fosbury Flop (not the best one he’s done), Tyriek picks the ankle long enough to slow down Ace as Ace walks into the Cardiac Kick!

Wes and crew attacks Ace after the match, so The Rascalz make the save. We’re obviously going to get a 6 man soon, and this is perfectly fine.

Kaiba Boys (Nic & Ryan Nemeth) vs Fir$t Cla$$

AJ starts with Ryan and just shoves him away and demands Nic, Nic gets the best of AJ but AJ tags in KC and KC gets in a few quick shots, some cute counters and showboating before eating a Dropkick from Nic. AJ comes in to try and take out Nic, the Kaibas take out AJ and then dump KC into AJ’s arms and hold the ring going to commercial.

During the commercial a little blind tag and Spiderman in the ropes taunt from KC caught Ryan off guard so First Class is in control. AJ is beating the hell out of Ryan in the ropes, then hits Tennessee Whiskey for the “Money Money Money” taunt. KC tags himself in and starts slapping Ryan around, Dropkick into 305 as KC cuts off Ryan from Nic, throws Ryan in the corner, Rolling Uppercuts, Snapmare, Roll through, Chest Stomp into a near fall. KC tags in AJ and a little tandem offense gives them another near fall but Mokuba refuses to lose…so far. AJ steps on Ryan’s chest and then lays in a few Overhand Chops. AJ slowing things down, looks for a power move but Ryan slips it into a Sleeper Attempt but AJ counters and slams Ryan down for another two count. Two Sidewalk Slams after getting bounced out of the corner, but Ryan keeps kicking out.

AJ takes Nic off the apron, looks for another Sidewalk Slam but Ryan turns it into a Satellite DDT. Simultaneous tag time, KC eats the fire from Nic, two Lariats, Stinger Splash, Rude Awakening, 10 Count Shots to the Heart for…AJ breaks it up! AJ looks for a Down Payment but Nic slips, Superkick, Ryan tries to rock AJ to no avail so they both Lariat AJ out and Avalanche Polish Hammer from Ryan lays out AJ. KC tries the Flash Pinfall but Nic rolls out, a few quick shouts, Spinning Heel Kick from KC for a 2 count. Nic hits a FAMEasser into Danger Zone after Ryan’s blind tag so Ryan gets the cover as Nic just laughs and takes it in.

Overall Score: 6.25/10

Nothing to really be offended by. Some of the stuff was a little low stakes or obvious filler, but stories moved forward with Cora, Wes and the Kaibas. Plus you know, Eric Young turning on Josh is a little unexpected. EY has been the fill in Dreamer/Scott with the “Ra-Ra” speeches and feel good crap for significant shows, so having him go back to Maniac is a nice twist.

Tessa also steering into this “Locker Room bully” persona is smart. It’s not a stretch from what people already think, so steering into the skid is very smart. I may not have been blown away by anything in this episode, but it was definitely decent and did a solid enough job showcasing the partnership and not making the TNA talent feel like an after thought.

All in all, very nice.

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Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (1/30/25)

Red VS Grey!

Published

3 hours ago

January 30, 2025

Steven Mitchell

Who is the Face of ROH TV?

Leila Grey called out Red Velvet, and now they’re fighting for the gold! Who will be the ROH Women’s World Television Championship?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Sammy Guevara VS Aaron Solo; Sammy wins.
Queen Aminata VS Allysin Kay; Aminata wins.
ROH World Television Championship Proving Ground Match: Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes VS Lee Johnson w/ EJ Nduka; Time Limit Draw, Lee earns a future title match.
Serpentico VS Brandon Cutler; Serpentico wins.
ROH Rewind – ROH World Television Championship: Samoa Joe VS Tony Deppen; Joe wins and retains the title.
Blake Christian VS Evil Uno w/ The Dark Order; Blake wins.
ROH Women’s World Television Championship: Red Velvet VS Leila Grey; Velvet wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Sammy Guevara VS Aaron Solo!

The Spanish God, a Son of Texas, is still ROH World Tag Team Champion after he and Dustin Rhodes took down The House of Torture in Tokyo! But will Sammy keep things going strong from WrestleDynasty? Or will The Extra Talented Aaron Solo bring the DOOM~ on behalf of QT Marshall?

The fans cheer on Sammy while he offers the Code of Honor handshake. Solo says nope, the fans boo, but the bell rings. Sammy and Solo circle, tie up, and Solo wrenches to a wristlock. Solo grins but the fans boo more. Solo keeps Sammy from the ropes, but Sammy spins, flips, and wrenches to wristlock in return. The fans cheer but Solo knees low! Solo fires a forearm, storms up on Sammy at the ropes and fires another. Sammy fires back but Solo knees low again! Solo whips, Sammy reverses, and Sammy hurdles, backflips, then DROPKICKS! Solo falls and Sammy kips up so smooth! The fans cheer and Sammy takes a bow.

Sammy aims and springboards, but he fakes Solo out to spin and pose. The fans cheer, Sammy eggs Solo on, and Solo storms in! Sammy DUMPS Solo back out, then builds speed to CORKSCREW PLANCHA! Direct hit on Solo, and Sammy shouts out Tay Melo and their baby, Luna. Sammy then CHOPS Solo against the railing, puts him in the ring, and covers, ONE! Solo is still in this but Sammy stays on him with a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Sammy stays cool as he goes to the apron, and the fans rally up. Sammy springboards but Solo trips him up! Crash landing for Sammy and the fans boo, but Solo rains down fists!

Solo stomps Sammy at the ropes, the ref counts and Solo stops to soak up heat. Solo CHOKES Sammy on the ropes, steps off as the ref counts again, and he drags Sammy back up. Solo RAMS into Sammy at the corner, the fans taunt him with “YOU SUCK, SOLO!” but Solo just talks smack. Sammy CHOPS Solo! And CHOPS again! Solo knees low again, then snap suplexes! Cover, TWO! Sammy goes for ropes but Solo catches him to a chinlock. Solo digs his knee into Sammy’s back but the fans rally up. Sammy endures, fights up, and fires body shots. Sammy CHOPS Solo, CHOPS again, and CHOPS! But Solo knees low again!

Solo whips, Sammy ducks ‘n’ dodges, and he CROSSBODIES! And kips up! The fans fire up with Sammy, he dodges Solo, then RAMS him in the corner! ENZIGIRI! Then a slingshot, somersault and- NO, Solo rolls Sammy! TWO! Solo spins, Sammy ducks the kick and JUMP KNEES! Then he reels Solo in, back suplex KICK!! Cover, TWO!! Solo survives that modified Detonation Kick, but Sammy vows to end it here! Sammy brings Solo up to the torture rack, but Solo grabs ropes! Solo escapes to the apron, but Sammy GAMANGIRIS! Solo staggers up the ramp, and Sammy springboards, but Solo dodges! Sammy rolls through, and Solo runs up to ROCK him!

Sammy ROCKS Solo! Solo ROCKS Sammy! The fans cheer Sammy and boo Solo as they go back and forth. Solo SOBATS, then DREAMCAST- JUMP KNEE again! Sammy takes aim and SUPER- NO, Solo dodges to DREAMCAST KICK! Direct hit this time, and then Solo hit a DESTROYER on the ramp!! Solo shoves Sammy into the ring, then goes up the corner! DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS!! Cover, TWO!! Sammy survives the coup de grace and Solo is furious! The fans rally up while Sammy crawls to a corner. Solo runs up, but into a SUPERKICK! Sammy goes up, FLYING CUTTER! Sammy torture racks, GO TO HOSPITAL! Cover, Sammy wins!

Winner: Sammy Guevara, by pinfall

No doom here! The Spanish God pulls out the victory, but who will target the Sons of Texas and their gold next?

ROH World Television Championship Proving Ground Match: Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes VS Lee Johnson w/ EJ Nduka!

The Commander of the Skies pushed Kazuchika Okada further than expected last Saturday on Collision, which is probably why Okada disrespected him even after winning. But now, Komander must focus on his own growing list of challengers. Will he be able to end this in ten minutes or less? Or will he owe Big Shotty a title shot?

The Code of Honor is not upheld as Lee kicks Komander’s hand away, and the bell rings. The two circle, feel things out, then tie up. Lee waistlocks and SLAMS Komander, then floats over to slap him around! The fans boo but EJ says it’s too easy. Lee smirks as he and Komander reset and circle again. The fans rally up, the two tie up, and Komander wrenches to then hook a leg. Komander slaps Lee around now and the fans cheer. Abrahantes says two can play at that game, and Lee resets with Komander. They circle, tie up, and Lee waistlocks. Lee half nelsons, Komander spins but Lee hip tosses, only for Komander to handspring through!

Komander hip tosses Lee, but Lee UP KICKS! Lee hits a headlock takeover, grinds Komander down, but the fans rally up. Komander fights up, powers out, but Lee CLOBBERS Komander! Lee says it’s too easy. The fans boo but Lee grins. Lee goes back for Komander, but Komander sips around to waistlock. Lee bucks the O’Conner, but Komander ducks the lariat! Komander wheelbarrows and arm-drags, but Lee comes back! Komander denies the Code Breaker, trips Lee up, then drops an ELBOW! Lee writhes, Komander stalks him, but Lee runs up. Komander puts Lee on the apron, then triangle jump DROPKICKS him down!

The fans fire up, Komander builds speed, but he has to literally slow his roll as EJ stands in the way. The Judge wags his finger at Komander while the fans boo. The ref tells EJ to back up, and Lee slides into the ring. Komander hurries to aim from the apron, but EJ trips him up! Abrahantes protests but EJ gets away with that one. Komander is annoyed, but Lee BLASTS him down! The fans boo more but Lee high-fives with EJ. Lee then stands Komander up to fire a BODY BLOW! Komander sputters, Lee RAMS him into the apron! EJ says that’s how you do it! Lee whips Komander hard into more railing!

Komander staggers, clutching a hip, but Lee brings Komander around. Lee puts Komander in, covers, ONE! Komander shows that toughness but Lee looms over him. Lee scuffs Komander, the fans rally up, and Komander rises up. Lee is on him but Komander fires a BODY SHOT! Komander RAMS into Lee at the corner, CHOPS him, but Lee kicks low! And CHOPS in return! Lee whips Komander to swing him around and send hard into the buckles! The fans boo but Lee runs up, into a BOOT! Lee staggers, runs back in, but Komander ELBOWS Lee away! Komander goes up, up, but Lee GAMANGIRIS!

Lee climbs up after Komander, but Komander fires body shots! The fans rally, Komander SHOVES Lee down, and Komander adjusts! Tightrope walk and CROSSBODY! Direct hit and the fans fire up! Komander stands, dodges Lee’s lariat, and he rolls to go up, FACEBUSTER! The fans fire up again while Komander crawls to the cover, TWO! Lee stays in this but Komander is more sore from the ribs. Komander goes to the apron, the fans rally up, and he RAMS into Lee! Springboard, flying sunset flip! Lee rolls through, Komander goes up the ropes again to RANA! Cover, TWO!! Lee escapes in time and EJ is relieved.

The fans rally while both men are down. Komander rises, the fans tune up with him, and he runs up on Lee. Lee fireman’s carries, ROLLING DEATH VALLEY! PENALTY KICK! STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO!! Komander survives the assault and Lee is furious! EJ also argues the count but the ref defends it. Lee huffs ‘n’ puffs and storms up on Komander. Lee drags Komander up by his mask, reels him in, but Komander slips free of the bomb! SUPERKICK! Lee goes to a corner, Komander runs in, but Lee puts Komander on the apron! Komander ENZIGIRIS! Lee drops to his knees and Komander climbs.

Lee stands to ROCK Komander first! Lee climbs up, brings Komander up again, but Komander fights the suplex! Komander fires body shots, then goes up and over! SUPER SUNSET BOMB!! Lee writhes, but so does Komander! The fans rally again as Komander goes to the apron. EJ coaches Lee but we get the one minute warning! Komander hurries to springboard SWANTON! Direct hit but Komander has to crawl back to the cover! TWO!! Lee survives, Komander scrambles back to the corner, and the fans rally up again. Komander is up top at 30 seconds left, and Komander tightrope walks! CIELITO LINDO!! But he can’t make the cover!!

Komander flails and flounders, but EJ drags Lee out of the ring! The Judge makes the save, and TIME’S UP!!

Time Limit Draw; Lee Johnson earns a title opportunity

Big Shotty has a big grin on his face, but he survived the Proving Grounds. Will Lee grab that gold when he and Komander meet again?

ROH Rewind – ROH World Television Championship: Samoa Joe VS Tony Deppen!

Here on Episode 101, we flashback to Episode 2! The Samoan Submission Machine dropped the TNT Championship just before this, but he took on a former ROH World TV Champion’s challenge, watch as Joe gets the rebound!

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who truly reigns in ROH!

The Code of Honor is upheld, the bell rings, and fans rally for “JOE! JOE! JOE!” as he circles with Deppen. They tie up, fans sing “Joe is gonna kill~ you!” as Joe puts Deppen on ropes. The ref counts the break, Joe lets off cleanly and smirks as Deppen resets. The two circle, tie up, and Joe puts Deppen in the corner. The ref calls the break again, but Joe CHOPS Deppen as he lets off. Fans rally up for Joe again but Deppen shrugs that off. Deppen and Joe tie up again, go around, and Deppen wrenches to a wristlock. Joe wrenches right back, but Deppen rolls and hooks a leg. Joe twists the wrist but Deppen rolls back, stands up and CHOPS! And ROCKS! And CHOPS!

Deppen fires off on Joe in the corner but Joe HEADBUTTS! Then JAB, JAB, JAB! Joe fires off fast hands and a CHOP! Deppen falls and fans fire up! Deppen sits up and gasps, but he CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Deppen runs, but Joe CLOBBERS him! Joe looms over Deppen before he covers, TWO! Deppen goes to ropes but Joe stalks him. Joe JABS again, and again, and again! Joe stomps Deppen to the corner, stomps him more then digs his boot in. The ref counts, Joe lets off, but Deppen shoulders into Joe. Deppen eggs Joe on, so Joe CHOPS and KICKS him down! Joe drags Deppen up, back elbows then JABS, then HEADBUTTS!

Joe stands Deppen up but Deppen throws hands. Deppen backs Joe down, ELBOWS him, then CLUBS him on the back! Deppen whips corner to corner, Joe reverses and runs in to back body block, then PELE! Deppen goes down again and fans fire up! Fans rally behind Joe, and Joe drags Deppen up. Joe hoists Deppen up top as fans sing again. But Deppen fights the tuck to HEADBUTT! Joe CHOPS in return! Joe climbs up, clinches, but Deppen throws body shots! Deppen ROCKS Joe, stands and leaps, to MISSILE DROPKICK! Fans fire up, Deppen says Joe is dead, but Joje puts Deppen on the apron. Deppen dodges the haymaker to SLINGSHOT STUNNER!

Joe staggers, Deppen rolls Joe up, TWO!! Joe escapes but Deppen is focused! Deppen runs in, URENAGE and KNEE collide!! Both men fall but Deppen makes the cover, TWO!! Deppen almost had Joe but he isn’t sure what he has to do now. Deppen climbs the corner and fans rally up. DIVING- NO, Joe avoids the stomps! Deppen comes back, the URENAGE hits clean! Joe storms up on Deppen, reels him in, but Deppen drops! Victory roll, TWO!! Joe LARIATS Deppen! Joe then puts Deppen up top, tucks him in, and brings him out, MUSCLE BUSTER!! Cover, Joe wins!

Winner: Samoa Joe, by pinfall (still ROH World Television Champion)

From this victory, Samoa Joe would defeat Mark Briscoe in a great 1v1 match, but then VACATE it so that he could hunt down the AEW World Championship. Joe is back in action this Saturday Night Collision alongside Hook, will they make quick work of The Patriarchy?

The Infantry is backstage.

And they’re shaking down some rando for information? The cameraman ruins things and Carlie Bravo says they’re just trying to make an honest living. Shawn Dean says the cameras always have perfect timing. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Well, here are some things that changed: their attitudes; their patience with ROH; but more importantly, their pockets! Shane Taylor Promotions backed the Brinks truck up and they’re getting paid! City to city, paying for all the bad habits! But most importantly, that means ROH is on notice that this is the Crash Out World Tour! They’re handing out Double Stomps like they’re Oprah!

You get a double stomp! You get a double stomp! You get a double stomp! If you get caught in the ring, two to the head! If you get caught in the halls, two to the head! If you get caught in catering, two to the head! If you get caught walking your grandma across the street, two to the head! But hey, ROH no longer stands for “Ring of Honor.” It’s “Run Or Hide.” Why? Cuz the Infantry’s outside. So either rep the set, or expect disrespect! POP POP! Bravo & Dean have issued the warning, who will heed it and who will eat it?

ROH Women’s World Television Championship: Red Velvet VS Leila Grey!

These two used to be the best of baddies, but that was when AEW was in the eye of the storm. Since then, they’ve walked very different paths, and it is The Chef who stands atop the summit as a champion. But will she be able to serve up another L? Or will the Top Flight Attendant take her for a ride?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is the baddest baddie of them all!

The Code of Honor is barely kept, as Velvet has attitude to spare. The bell rings, the fans rally up, and the two tie up. Velvet headlocks and grinds Leila, but Leila slips out to the headlock. Velvet goes to ropes, Leila lets off, and Velvet claims there was hair pulling. Leila and Velvet reset, tie up, but Velvet stomps a foot! Velvet fires forearms, then whips. Leila ducks ‘n’ dodges and CLOBBERS Velvet! The fans fire up with Leila and she storms up on Velvet. Leila scoops and SLAMS Velvet, then runs for a SENTON! The fans cheer as Leila stalks Velvet. Velvet ROCKS Leila, but Leila fires back! Leila UPPERCUTS, kicks, and KICKS!

Leila kicks a leg out, runs, and she SHOTGUNS Velvet down! Velvet scrambles and Leila is annoyed. The fans rally, Leila eggs Velvet on, but Velvet takes her time. Velvet tells fans to shut up, and Champion’s Advantage is on her side. Leila storms out after Velvet hits a BODY SHOT! Velvet CLUBS Leila, RAMS Leila into the apron, then RAMS her in again! The ref reprimands but Velvet DOUBLE CHOPS Leila down. Velvet puts Leila under the apron skirt, then steps on her to go up to the apron. The fans boo but Velvet taunts them before leaving Leila behind. The ring count climbs, Leila rises, and Velvet mocks the fans cheering Leila on.

Velvet then runs, slides, and YANKS Leila down! The fans boo, Velvet mocks them some more, then she brings Leila up. Velvet ROCKS Leila, but Leila hits back! Velvet ROCKS Leila again, then puts some stank on the CHOP! And CHOP! Velvet says one more time, puts some more stank on it, but Leila dodges! Leila fires CHOP after CHOP on Velvet and the fans fire up! Leila is all fired up, and she vows to win that title! Leila kicks Velvet, then stalks Velvet to the corner. Velvet CHOPS, puts Leila in the ring, and then drags her into the corner. Velvet mocks Leila’s promise, then fires BODY SHOTS! The fans boo but Velvet sits Leila down.

Velvet digs her boots in while doing the splits, but she steps off as the ref counts. Velvet stalks Leila, and she CLUBS her on the back! Velvet “kicks dirt,” then runs to DOUBLE KNEE Leila in the back! The ref reprimands but Velvet says Leila’s still in the ring. Velvet pushes Leila down, clamps on a full nelson, and she leans on the hold. Leila endures, the fans rally up, and Leila fights up. Leila breaks free, runs, but into a CALF KICK! Velvet snarls, then she clamps onto Leila with a chinlock. Velvet taunts Leila while she endures, and Leila fights up again. The fans rally, Leila fires body shots, and she hits a BIG back suplex!

The fans cheer while Velvet flounders away to a corner. Leila rises, Velvet runs up, but Leila dodges to roll her up! ONE, but Leila hurries. Velvet KNEES low, whips Leila to ropes, but Leila LARIATS on return! And LARIATS again! Leila BOOTS Velvet, the fans fire up, and Leila runs in! SHINING WIZARD in the corner! Then running CUTTER, and roll back! DRAGON SLEEPER! Velvet endures being bent back and the fans fire up! Velvet reaches out, ROPEBREAK by a foot! Leila lets go in frustration, but she CLUBS away on Velvet. Leila goes up the corner, but Velvet ROCKS her first! Velvet cross the arms, ICONOCLASM! Cover, TWO!!

Leila survives and Velvet is furious! Velvet drags Leila up, bumps her off buckles, and then whips corner to corner. Velvet runs in, but Leila ELBOWS her away! Leila goes to another corner, ELBOWS Velvet away again, then goes up. The fans rally as Velvet staggers around, into the BLOCKBUSTER! Leila crawls to the cover, TWO! Leila grows further frustrated, but she hurries to get Velvet up. Leila scoops, SLAMS, and waits on velvet. Velvet stands into another scoop, but she slips free! Velvet CLUBS Leila, sits her down, and dragon sleepers! STRAIGHT OUT THE KITCHEN!! Cover, Velvet wins!

Winner: Red Velvet, by pinfall (still ROH Women’s World Television Champion)

Red beats Grey and keeps the gold! She beat this Leila, but will she and LEGIT Leyla soon run it back?

My Thoughts:

A great ROH here, though that was mostly because it was only an hour and 11 minutes. And again, the ROH Rewind accounts for some of that, with it being a match I covered. The matches I skipped were also still very good, with Serpentico VS Cutler and Blake VS Uno both surprisingly competitive. Very good opener from Sammy VS Solo, though I was expecting them to start on an ROH World Tag Team Championship story already. Maybe that’ll be next week, given AEW Revolution is in March and ROH Supercard of Honor is more than likely in April. We can get a good match out of like a Revolution Zero Hour, and then a much bigger match for Supercard.

Great Proving Ground match, though I’m surprised it’s Komander as the one unable to beat someone in under ten minutes. Komander VS Lee for the title will be a great match, hard to call how it’ll go. Very good promo from The Infantry, and I would think they’re in the running for a shot at the tag titles. Them, MXM Collection, maybe “The Fraternity,” aka a combination of Cole Karter, Griff Garrison and Preston Vance after Jacked Jameson gave them that idea. And great main event from Velvet VS Leila, probably one of Leila’s better showings, but Velvet of course won out. She’ll keep building momentum until Leyla is back, and we’ll get one more great match from them, perhaps for Supercard.