Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (8/17/20)
One week until SummerSlam!
Raw is reeling this close to SummerSlam!
Everyone is in shock that The Viper’s viciousness turned on Ric Flair! Shawn Michaels returns to Raw, will he confront Randy Orton? Will he be the Legend Killer’s next victim?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Apollo Crews VS Shelton Benjamin w/ The Hurt Business; Apollo wins and bans The Hurt Business from ringside for SummerSlam.
- WWE 24/7 Championship Hurt Business Bail Out: R-Truth VS Akira Tozawa w/ Ninjas VS Shelton Benjamin w/ Hurt Business; Benjamin wins and becomes the new WWE 24/7 Champion.
- Angel Garza w/ Zelina Vega VS Ivar w/ Erik; Garza wins.
- Natalya w/ Lana VS Mickie James; Natalya wins, by count-out.
- The Golden Role Models VS Asuka & Shayna Baszler; Asuka & Baszler win.
- Ruby Riott w/ Liv Morgan VS Peyton Royce w/ Billie Kay; Royce wins.
- Raw Underground – Erik goes 1-1, Ziggler goes 1-0.
- Raw Underground – Arturo Ruas VS Riddick Moss; No Contest.
- WWE 24/7 Championship Mid-Match Mayhem: Shelton Benjamin w/ The Hurt Business VS Cedric Alexander; Alexander wins and becomes the new WWE 24/7 Champion.
- Six Man Elimination Tag: The Hurt Business VS Apollo Crews, Ricochet & Mustafa Ali; The Hurt Business wins.
- WWE 24/7 Championship: Cedric Alexander VS Akira Tozawa; Alexander wins and retains the WWE 24/7 Championship.
- WWE 24/7 Championship Dirty Business: Cedric Alexander VS Shelton Benjamin; Benjamin wins and becomes the new WWE 24/7 Champion.
- Raw Underground – Marina Shafir wins.
- Montez Ford w/ Angelo Dawkins VS Andrade Almas w/ Angel Garza; Ford wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
The opening intro is all weird…
Rewinding, stopping, flipping around. Is Retribution taking over now, then and forever?
Drew McIntyre heads to the ring!
The WWE World Champion is here and grabs the mic to address what we all saw last week. The Celtic Colossus was first on the scene after Randy Orton PUNTED Ric Flair in the head, and will be facing that very Viper this Sunday at SummerSlam. McIntyre says what Orton did last week “was completely unforgivable. Randy Orton brutalized Ric Flair.” Not just the legend, the 16-time world champ, two-time hall of fame inductee and icon for generation after generation. But a 71-year-old man. Ric is someone Orton grew up around for 20 years as a mentor, protector and friend. Last week, with a tear in Ric’s eye, he told Orton that Orton should be the one to break the record because of how much Ric loved him. And what did Orton do? “You kicked him in his damn skull!”
But here’s the thing. SummerSlam isn’t Orton and a defenseless old man. Orton is facing “a pissed off, 6’5″ Scottish fire-breathing dragon” that wants to hurt him! Not just for McIntyre, but for everyone Orton’s ever wronged, and especially Flair! Camera cuts are a bit weird and graphics are showing up randomly as McIntyre tries to take us down memory lane. Orton VS Foley, all the weapons! Yes, Orton took the torch from Foley that night. And we’re getting a replay of Dominik Mysterio taking those kendo stick strikes in a picture in picture. McIntyre tells Orton that SummerSlam will be a beating far worse than thumbtacks and weapons. “Screw that! Drew McIntyre IS a damn weapon!”
McIntyre wishes SummerSlam was now, and he knows Orton is hiding somewhere in the building. The graphics are going by so fast it’s a bit nauseating. A cameraman barges into the production truck to find Retribution members forcing the tech crew to do these things! Then they break the computers now that they’ve been found! McIntyre keeps talking about what he wants to do to Orton while Raw goes to break! Is this the end or just the beginning of the chaos for tonight?
Raw returns to the locker room assembled.
Much like the superstars last Friday Night SmackDown, Titus O’Neil, Mustafa Ali, Cedric Alexander, Ricochet, Humberto Carrillo, The Viking Raiders and even Riddick Moss all want answers. This was no hacker, and it wasn’t Akira Tozawa’s ninja clan. McIntyre comes in and says his stuff with Orton can wait. Is Ric okay? Yes, from what McIntyre’s heard. But Orton won’t be okay. Of course, that’s if we get to Sunday. Retribution keeps causing chaos and trouble, and McIntyre doesn’t appreciate them doing this. So they have tow choices: carry on and see what happens; or band together and stomp this out! But Seth Rollins come sin, laughing and applauding.
Rollins appreciates what McIntyre is doing. Yes, Retribution is a problem. But Monday night already has its Messiah, so there’s already a locker room leader. Okay, Rollins. You’ve been doing this song and dance for about five years now. If the boys didn’t respect you then, they’re not going to respect you now. Rollins gets it, McIntyre is the champion with a chip on his shoulders and thinks he’s the leader. But being a champion doesn’t make you a leader nor a teacher. Let’s not forget who taught McIntyre about being a champion. It was Rollins. Just like how Rollins taught Dominik what it takes to be a WWE superstar. Ricochet says Rollins is about to get his receipt for that, too. BURN!
Rollins asks if Ricochet has something to say. Just saying, Rey Mysterio going to be here tonight. Literally impossible. We all saw what Rollins did to Rey’s eye. But Alexander speaks up and says it’s still happening. Rollins doesn’t believe them but McIntyre asks if the Messiah is scared. He’s not! Rollins knows how to protect himself and those around him. Meanwhile, McIntyre couldn’t protect Flair from Orton. Get your priorities straight or you’ll end up the EX WWE Champion. Well Rollins could just come out and say it. If he wants McIntyre to drop him right here, McIntyre will gladly oblige! Buddy Murphy steps in and things get tense. McIntyre dares Rollins to step up, but Rollins and Murphy take their leave. Will everything blow up tonight before SummerSlam?
The Hurt Business is here!
It takes a moment to get the proper titantron and lights going, but MVP, Bobby Lashley and Shelton Benjamin still head down to address business. “While Drew McIntyre is in the back, organizing some sort of buddy system,” they’re here to make a statement. “Retribution, wherever you may be. The Hurt Business is officially open for business.” MVP already knows what this is. While the rest of the WWE roster is “hand wringing” and worrying, the Hurt Business is calling Retribution out! Retribution thinks they’re tough for terrorizing from the shadows? That’s not tough! What is tough is Lashley, Benjamin and even MVP! A cameraman finally returns to ringside to get a better look.
MVP says in his life, he’s learned to follow the money. This is the same. Follow the path. Who benefits most from Retribution? Think about it. If you follow the trail, it leads you to catering, where you find Apollo Crews and “His band of merry pranksters,” Ali, Ricochet and Alexander. In fact, Hurt Business bets that they hatched this up while Apollo was home on the couch after the “Full Lashley” full nelson. TO cut to the chase, we all know Retribution showed up around the time MVP faced Apollo for the United States Championship! That’s not a coincidence! That was a ploy so that Apollo could still MVP’s US Championship belt that he paid thousands of dollars for! But here comes Apollo to respond!
Apollo has that very belt and a mic to say, “I knew that you would be out here making excuses.” But to accuse Apollo for leading Retribution? That’s low. No, what’s low is Apollo and his “masked dudes” pulling these “subversive actions.” No this is just MVP distracting from the match at SummerSlam. MVP can’t beat Apollo without help, just like Benjamin. Let’s real talk. Until Apollo had the title, he’s had more stops and starts than a used car. That made Apollo bitter and that’s why he has a crew of the same people. Apollo doesn’t fear MVP, but losing the title. Because as soon as he does, it’s back to catering.
Yeah, Apollo DOES fear losing. That’s why he FIGHTS. But if he was anything like MVP, he would’ve joined up with the Hurt Business months ago. Well if he was like MVP, he’d be smart and he’d understand this business! If he wants to talk business, then let’s talk business! If Apollo beats Benjamin, then both Benjamin and Lashley will be in catering banned from ringside, and MVP will have to go 1v1. MVP says Apollo is a child, and there will be no excuses when MVP puts Apollo over his knee. MVP sicks the Hurt Business after Apollo but Apollo ROCKS Benjamin and gets in the ring! Will Apollo even the odds for Sunday?
Apollo Crews VS Shelton Benjamin w/ The Hurt Business!
Raw returns with the match already in progress. Apollo clubs away on Benjamin then whips, but Benjamin reverses. Benjamin waistlocks but Apollo counters to a victory roll, TWO! Benjamin CLOBBERS Apollo! MVP tells Benjamin add on and he stomps away on Apollo. Benjamin puts Apollo in a corner, stomps away then clubs away. The ref backs Benjamin off, but Benjamin whips Apollo corner to corner hard! Cover, TWO! The crowd rallies up for Apollo but Benjamin waits. Apollo denies Pay Dirt then hits a SPINE BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Apollo keeps his focus as Benjamin gets to a corner. Apollo waistlocks and brings Benjamin out, but Benjamin counters the Crews Missile to a DDT! Cover, TWO!!
MVP shouts for Benjamin to keep going, and Benjamin drags Apollo back up. Benjamin reels Apollo in, but is that R-Truth!? He’s running away because of Akira Tozawa and the ninjas giving chase! Benjamin has to shove the ninjas out of the way, Apollo trips him up to jackknife cover! Apollo wins!!
Winner: Apollo Crews, by pinfall; Hurt Business banned from ringside for the WWE United States Championship match
But Lashley and MVP go after Apollo! No more concern for Apollo’s health this week, they’re just angry! They beat Apollo up but here come those friends! Ricochet, Ali and Alexander fight the Hurt Business back! Lashley puts Alexander on the apron but gets an enziguri! Springboard, but into the #FullLashley! But Ricochet and Ali save Alexander with a sleeper hold, SUPERKICK and BOOT! Apollo and friends dump Lashley out! The Hurt Business suffers another loss, will this finally be settled come SummerSLam?
Truth returns but Benjamin BOOTS him down! Cover, Benjamin wins the 24/7 Championship!!
Winner: Shelton Benjamin, by pinfall (NEW WWE 24/7 Champion)
MVP says “We are NOT going out like that! Not tonight!” They will not be disrespected by Truth the clown, a bunch of ninjas, and Apollo’s crew. How about Apollo choose two of those idiots and face MVP’s guys in a Six Man ELIMINATION Match?! Challenge accepted! Who steps up to hurt the Hurt Business all over again?
Angel Garza reunites with Demi Burnett.
Did she enjoy his match last week? Of course! Well here’s a rose. Thanks! But Ivar returns to charm her again. He really enjoyed their conversation last week about his hoop dreams. Damian Lillard has Dam Time, but now it’s Ivar Time. Would Demi like to be his guest at Raw Underground tonight? He presents her with turkey. Thank you, Ivar! She’d love to! Anything for such a beautiful lady. Oh and, Garza didn’t poison it this time. Did Garza poison Montez Ford? No! No one did! This is just Ford’s excuse so he won’t have to defend the Raw Tag Team titles! Garza says Ivar won’t be pretending in their match up next. And then he throws the turkey down! But Ivar calls it back like Mjolnir! Garza better put some respect on that name! Everything is fair in love and warbeards, but who survives to take Demi on a date?
WWE has a huge announcement!
With everything going on in the Performance Center, the venue for Raw and SmackDown is about to change! WWE turns the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida into the THUNDERDOME! SummerSlam weekend will be bigger than ever as far as a state-of-the-art “virtual fan” experience! Try it out for yourself starting this Friday Night SmackDown!
Angel Garza w/ Zelina Vega VS Ivar w/ Erik!
We return to the ring with everyone already here. Who will win the heart of Demi in the shadow of the biggest party of the summer?
The bell rings and Garza runs in, only for Ivar to side step him! Ivar waistlocks but Garza elbows free. Garza headlocks, Ivar powers out and fireman’s carries but Garza slips out. Garza waistlocks but Ivar bucks him off. Things speed up, Ivar cartwheels but Garza catches the heel kick to KNEE Ivar! Garza throws Ivar down by his beard! Off come the pants! Demi watches as Garza wraps Ivar up in a half nelson. Wait, Angelo Dawkins is saying hi to Demi! Garza turns the armlock into a part crossface, but Ivar endures. The crowd rallies, Ivar fights up but Garza throws knees and forearms. Garza whips, Ivar reverses and EXPLODERS Garza away!
The crowd fires up more as Ivar runs Garza over with a shoulder! Ivar waits for Garza to stand before he scoops and sidewalk slams! Then the BASEMENT SPLASH! Ivar fires up as Garza crawls away. Ivar stalks him to a corner, drags him up, and whips him corner to corner. Corner clothesline! Ivar whips the other way, another clothesline! Garza flops but Ivar is ready. Ivar scoops Garza but Garza slips out and shoves. Garza runs into the SEATED SENTON! Cover, TWO!! Garza survives and Vega is relieved. Ivar drags Garza up as the crowd rallies again. Ivar hoists Garza up top and climbs up behind him. Garza resists and elbows Ivar back. Garza bumps Ivar off buckles as he goes to the apron. But Ivar clobbers Garza with a clothesline!
Vega checks on Garza but Ivar builds speed! Vega stands in his way so Ivar slams on the brakes. Ivar goes out to get Garza and throw him into the apron! And then the Plexiglas! Ivar puts Garza in at 4 and glares at Almas. Almas stays back but Garza kicks Ivar down! Garza slithers around, and basement dropkicks! Cover, Garza wins!!
Winner: Angel Garza, by pinfall
The Lethal Lothario definitely lives up to the first half of his nickname. But Dawkins tells “Fabio” to look at the screen. Demi congratulates Garza on an awesome win. Wait, what is this? Chill, Garza, they were just talking. They were both saying how great the Raw Tag Team championship match is going to be. Demi was asking a lot of questions about Ivar and Garza. Dawkins will back his #VikingProfits brother all day, but the only thing Dawks knows about Garza is that he likes velvet sweats in the summer. Maybe they should ask someone who knows him a little better. Where’s Charly Caruso?
Garza says that’s enough! Mind your business, Dawkins! He’s just playing, fam. But mama always told Dawkins that you can tell a lot about someone from the crew he’s rolling with. And in this case, we really about to find out a lot about those three. What? The titantron changes but Garza hurries to the back!
Vega and Almas ask commentary what this is about. Samoa Joe says Retribution has caused the WWE to start an “intensive security review process,” and it seems they’ve gone over hundreds of hours of security footage. Joe is well-liked, but he was shown something rather interesting. He shared it with Dawkins, and it seems Dawkins now wants to share it with everyone. It’s one of those things that shows how far someone is willing to go, when they think no one is watching. Vega suddenly starts to worry. She and Almas leave, but just what are we about to see?
Raw returns as Garza finds Dawkins and Demi.
Dawkins gives Demi his phone but Garza warns her. If you see that number at 2 AM, delete it. Whoa, why does it gotta be like that? Vega hurries in and wants the phone because of the evidence. Back down, fam! Charly appears because of the commotion. She also wants to know what the video is. Dawkins tells production to roll tape! The video is of Vega up to something. She looks around to see the coast is clear of human eyes. If that is what it looks like, she DID spike Ford’s drink!! Vega defends that everyone is clearly blind, because that is not what she did. What did it prove? Maybe it was messed with!
Wait, Charly is behind this! What?! It’s because Charly is upset Garza “upgraded” to Demi! That’s what’s going on here! Dawkins shouts that Vega poisoned Ford! He told them once and will say it again. Dawkins says “Fam” a lot but Ford is family. Dawkins has been holding back, but it’s time to give them what’s owed. Ford wants that smoke! Ford is back as he and Dawkins brawl with Almas and Garza!! Garza and Almas run for it, but there is no running from this on Sunday! Will the Street Profits still have the gold after getting their payback?
Natalya w/ Lana VS Mickie James!
The Queen of Harts has her Ravishing Russian buddy ringside as she and the former six-time women’s champion both return to action. Will Mickie be able to make this comeback a big one?
The bell rings, Mickie rushes Lana as she hollers at her! Natty attacks from behind, stomps away in the corner, and Lana takes pictures for social media… Natty pulls Mickie against ropes, the ref reprimands and Natty lets off. Natty whips, Mickie reverses to back kick, front kick and run! Mickie dodges to Thesz Press! Mickie rains down rights as the crowd fires up! Mickie drags Natty up but Natty knees low and hard! Natty clubs Mickie down, looms over her then brings her up for a headlock. Mickie throws Natty off and headlocks back! Natty powers out, Mickie runs her over! Lana coaches Natty but Mickie tells her to shut it.
Mickie waits for Natty to stand, then she kicks low and reels her in! Natty powers out and spins, but a DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE take them both down! The crowd fires up, loving the action between these two veterans! But wait, why is Seth Rollins coming out here? He and Murphy are after Samoa Joe and Tom Phillips! They want to know how Joe knows about Mysterio. Joe bets he does. Rollins wants to know Joe’s sources but Joe won’t tell. In the ring, Natty whips Mickie to a corner but Mickie comes back with a huricanrana! Mickie spins Natty around for a neckbreaker! Mickie kips up and Lana panics!
Mickie goes to a corner, climbs up top, but Lana gets on the apron! This slows Mickie down and Natty BLASTS her to the floor! Natty and Lana want the ring count while Rollins says Joe’s source is #FakeNews. The ring count rises above 5 on Mickie but she stirs at 7! She’s up at 9 but gets counted out! Natty wins!!
Winner: Natalya, by count-out
Natty celebrates and Lana mocks Mickie while Joe and Rollins finish their argument over sources. Lana gets this on film for TikTok and the ‘Gram, but the MICK KICK kicks the phone down!
Rollins keeps ranting at Joe, and says this: “If Rey and Dominik have the audacity to spit in my face and show up on MY show here tonight, it will be the last mistake either of them make, and neither of them will be making it to SummerSlam!” Rollins has issued his warning, but Joe doesn’t sweat it. Will the Mysterios only use this as motivation towards SummerSlam?
The Golden Role Models VS Asuka & Shayna Baszler!
Bayley and Sasha Banks will have to be very careful! Though the fact they both will face the Empress of Tomorrow at SummerSlam sounds like an advantage, tonight could jeopardize their momentum.
Before the match, the Role Models get the mics. “When you are the hardest working superstars in the WWE and have ll the gold, that’s enough to break anybody.” Being part of all three brands!? Give them a break! And now they both face Asuka!? They’ve had a few days, and… THEY CANT’T WAIT! They will get the night off! Asuka thinks she’s so smart getting into that Triple Brand Battle Royal. But the Empress of Tomorrow is more like the Empress of STUPID! She’s so dumb to think she has a chance in hell to win that double header!
But the real question is, who should defeat Asuka first? Sasha and Bayley think the other should, out of friendship. Bayley accepts that first match, so that she can do the heavy lifting and let Sasha win without even breaking a sweat! Bayley’s so sweet. Then they can finally CELEBRATE~! Because life is good and no one can stop the two of them. They’ll celebrate through Payback, too, as they successfully defend the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships! The only question is: Who are going to be the losers? Bliss-Cross? The IIconics? Heck, event he Riott Squad. Better yet, Asuka and Kai- Oh… Kairi Sane is gone!!
Shayna shows up to say something herself. “No matter what happens at SummerSlam, whoever it is that has that Raw Women’s title… I got next.” Asuka shows up to say the Empress is here! And SummerSlam, her two title matches, she already tells Bayley that it’s IMPOSSIBLE for her to keep hers! And as for tonight, Asuka takes them both on, with Shayna on her side. They have to fight together, before they can fight each other. Shayna likes the sound of that, and it’s go time! Bayley and Banks bail out to keep things under control. Will Shayna and Asuka even leave anything of them to make it to Sunday?
The teams sort out and Bayley starts against Asuka. They circle, the crowd rallies, and Bayley gets Asuka to the corner! Tag to Sasha and the Role Models mug Asuka. Asuka kicks back, Sasha stomps her, then tags Bayley back in. They mug Asuka more and Bayley wraps Asuka up into a chinlock. Bayley bumps Asuka off buckles, tags Sasha back in, and Sasha toys with Asuka. Asuka kicks but Sasha blocks to KNEE her back! Sasha sucker punches Shayna, but almost gets the pop-up knee! Asuka turns things around for a CODE BREAKER! Both women are down, Shayna gets up but someone knocks the Plexiglas over onto her!! It’s NIA!! Nia Jax is violating suspension to get after Shayna!! Nia stomps Shayna under the board!
Security rushes out and tells Nia to leave! Pat Buck is out in front to tell Nia to leave but Shayna goes after Nia! They brawl into the timekeeper’s area!! Nia shoves Shayna but Shayna comes back. Asuka reverses Sasha’s whip but Bayley keeps Sasha on the apron. So they BOTH get the hip attack! The Empress is all fired up, even if she is alone, and Raw goes to break!
Raw returns and Bayley grinds Asuka down in a chinlock. The crowd rallies up but Bayley knocks Asuka down and stomps her to ropes. Bayley stomps more but Asuka kicks back! Asuka goes after the leg but Bayley stomps her back down. Bayley bumps Asuka off buckles, tags Sasha, and they double suplex Asuka up and over! Cover, TWO! Sasha toys with Asuka and Bayley mocks Asuka that she has no Kairi, no Shayna and no chance! Sasha drags Asuka up and clubs her down, but Asuka hits back again. Sasha whips, Asuka holds ropes and elbows back! Asuka kicks and sunset flips! Sasha slips out, basement meteora! Cover, TWO!
Sasha grows frustrated but she drags Asuka up. Sasha bumps her off buckles, tags Bayley and they mug Asuka again. Bayley covers, TWO! Bayley drags Asuka into a chinlock and digs a knee in. Asuka endures as the crowd continues to rally. Bayley thrashes Asuka around, digs her knee in harder, but pulls on hair. The ref counts, Bayley stops at 4, and continues to mock Asuka not having a partner. But Asuka fights back! Bayley clobbers her down, drags her around and tags Sasha back in. The Role Models drag Asuka up to crisscross and whip her into the corner. Sasha snapmares, covers, TWO! Asuka growls but Bayley tags back in. The Role Models double whip, double wrench and double back suplex! Cover, TWO!
Bayley and Sasha are growing frustrated but Bayley goes to a corner. Bayley climbs up top, leaps, but lands on BOOTS! GHOST PIN! TWO!! Bayley gets up, drags Asuka up, and Sasha tags in. Asuka BACK HANDS Bayley! Sasha spins Asuka for a BACKSTABBER! BANK STATEMENT!! Asuka is in the crossface but Shayna returns?! Shayna KICKS Sasha off the hold! Asuka and Sasha crawl, but Sasha keeps Asuka away. Asuka boots Sasha, hot tag to Shayna! The Queen of Spades rallies on The Boss! Corner KNEE! Sliding KNEE at the ropes! Shayna drags Sasha around, stands on her hand, but Sasha avoids the stomp to roll Shayna up! TWO and Bayley tags in! Shayna gets Sasha but Bayley gets Shayna! Shayna just grabs Bayley, but Sasha hits a BACKSTABBER! BAYLEY2BELLY! Cover, TWO!?
The crowd is thunderous as Shayna survives and the Role Models are furious! Sasha tags back in, she and Bayley double lift Shayna but she knees free! Shayna throws Bayley, throws Sasha out, then rocks Bayley with a body shot to a gut wrench SLAM! And a KNEE!! KIRAFUDA KLUTCH!! Sasha kicks Shayna to save Bayley but Asuka sends Sasha out! Sasha shoulders into a knee! Asuka slides and gets Sasha in an ASUKA LOCK! Sasha is tapping, not that it matters. Shayna counters Bayley’s face plant into the KIRAFUDA KLUTCH! Bayley taps, Shayna and Asuka win!!
Winners: Asuka & Shayna Baszler, by submission
Both champions tap to hungry challengers! Asuka has to run the gauntlet while Shayna waits on the other side. Will Sasha and Bayley still be golden when this is all over?
Apollo talks with Alexander, Ricochet and Ali backstage.
The three of them are ready to face the Hurt Business, and he thanks them all for that back-up. That’s why Apollo accepted the challenge and chosen Mustafa Ali and Ricochet. Wait, what about Alexander? Apollo knows Alexander’s eager but he’s been going hard and should rest. Apollo needs to work off the rust because he was home for so long. Alexander doesn’t want that! He is in a tag team with Ricochet, they should go together. Ricochet assures Alexander it’s fine, they can get him in next time. The four friends head out, will Alexander at least be there for his friends for support?
Uh oh. Randy Orton walks into view now. The Viper seems to be contemplating something. Is he going to strike someone who least expects it?
Shawn Michaels finds Drew McIntyre backstage.
HBK checks in on the champ, because he knows what’s going through his head. Ric Flair meant a lot to everyone, including HBK. But McIntyre needs to understand that the anger and frustration will be used against him by Orton. McIntyre needs to focus and understand that he just needs to kick Orton’s head off. McIntyre has worked too hard and went down too rough of a road to lose now. McIntyre appreciates hearing that. Reflecting on his road back, McIntyre knows HBK was a huge part of that. Getting back through NXT, that was great because he got to spend time working with HBK. It wasn’t about the past but the future, and here he is now as world champion. But Orton has run roughshod over legends, and McIntyre feels like he’s let HBK down.
Let him down? McIntyre could never let HBK down. He is a Scottish Stud and there’s nothing stopping him! Yes, it’s tough. There are hills and mountains to climb, that’s what being a champion is. But all of that was tailor made for McIntyre. HBK remembers McIntyre didn’t take time for that torn bicep until he absolutely had to. He drove five hours every day to train, learn, build and grow. That’s the McIntyre HBK knows. The one who beat Brock Lesnar, a man who held the title hostage, and McIntyre set it free. The road McIntyre has traveled proves he has earned where he is. And now he’ll show everyone who he is all over again.
So promise HBK one thing: when HBK goes out there and he confronts Orton, McIntyre gives HBK that space. McIntyre promises that, and thanks HBK for the talk. But will HBK be put in the same situation as The Nature Boy tonight?
The IIconics confront Ruby Riott and Liv Morgan.
Aw look, it’s the “New and improved” Riott Squad. Will they trust each other today? Or will that change again? Billie Kay says her shoulder isn’t feeling so good so Peyton Royce is subbing in for Ruby in their match tonight. Right, Peyton? R-Right, of course! That’s what best friends do for each other. Though it seems like a surprise to Peyton. Liv says that’s surprising. Peyton asks if the “trash” has something to say, and that riles Ruby right up! Liv keeps Ruby calm and gets her to head for gorilla. The IIconics linger, and spot two people with Shayna. It’s Marina Shafir and Jessamyn Duke! Are the other MMA Four Horsewomen finally joining Raw?
Ruby Riott w/ Liv Morgan VS Peyton Royce w/ Billie Kay!
Raw returns as the IIconics finish their entrance, but Ruby is already in the ring. The bell rings and Ruby rushes Peyton right away! Ruby trips Peyton, rains down rights but Peyton gets up. Ruby keeps after her, ducks the heel kick and clothesline to STO! Ruby rains down more rights but Peyton gets away again. Peyton goes to ropes, Ruby goes after her but Peyton kicks her away. Peyton is on the apron, but Ruby runs and BLASTS her off! Ruby bumps Peyton off the apron, then whips her into barriers! Ruby refreshes the ring count to whip Peyton again, but Peyton reverses to send Ruby into barriers! Peyton puts Ruby in, waistlocks, but Ruby standing switches. Peyton bucks her off and KNEES her down! Cover, TWO!
Peyton and Billie are furious but Peyton drags Ruby back up. Peyton bumps Ruby off buckles then digs her boot in. The ref counts, Peyton lets up and throws close range clotheslines. Ruby slips out to fire forearms back! Peyton shoves her away but Ruby comes back with a BIG forearm! Ruby whips Peyton out then into the corner to hit an elbow! Ruby goes side to side for a running MULE KICK! Billie is worried while Peyton flops out of the ring. Ruby is on the apron and CROSSBODIES her down! The crowd is fired up as Ruby puts Peyton back in. Billie gets in Ruby’s face but Liv gets in Billie’s. Peyton shoves Ruby INTO Liv! Liv goes down, Peyton gives Ruby the DEJA VU!! Cover, Peyton wins!
Winner: Peyton Royce, by pinfall
The IIconics get another one by using the Squad against each other! Will Billie and Peyton head back to the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships after sweeping Ruby and Liv?
It’s almost time!
Shane McMahon arrives at the door and Jordan Omogbehin knows what that means. Raw Underground is coming up! Who steps up to throw down?
Raw Underground begins!
And Erik is already throwing someone around! Erik clubs away but his opponent gets away. He throws hands but gets thrown by Erik again! Erik lets his man up to see if he can do more. Nope! Erik facelocks, knees away, and the ref calls it!
Winner: Erik
Ivar has to cool Erik off, because the damage is done! Shane talks with Dolph Ziggler, and Ziggler says he’s had a lot of fun here already. Now, we just saw a great fight from Erik, but question: how would Ziggler rate it? “I mean, it was pretty good.” 4/10 at best because his guy was only okay. Shane would go higher but he agrees it was still impressive. Erik of course hears this and dares Ziggler to try him. Ziggler says Erik doesn’t want that, but Shane this is a “call out.” Challenge accepted? Ziggler figures why not. What a match-up! Erik and Ziggler circle, test things out, and ZIggler gets a leg. Erik keeps him back, they move around, Ziggler has a leg! Erik stays up and ROCKS Ziggler with that right!
Ziggler slips around fast to avoid the facelock and gives the facelock. But Erik powers up to SLAM Ziggler down! Erik goes for the facelock, Ziggler fights it off and they clinch. Erik throws knees, forearms and elbows, then gets the leg. He lifts Ziggler again, but Ziggler fights free! Ziggler gets the sleeper! Erik rolls but Ziggler stays clamped on! Erik fights up, Ziggler thumbs him in the eye!! Ziggler puts Erik out and Shane calls it! Ziggler wins!
Winner: Dolph Ziggler
The Show-Off celebrates but Ivar BLASTS him out of the ring! Ivar clearly didn’t take kindly to the thumb to Erik’s eye. Shane calms things down and we return to regular Raw.
Rey Mysterio IS here!
The King of Lucha and his son, Dominik, prove the rumors right! Dominik is still sore as he holds his ribs, given all the damage done from the kendo stick attack. And Dominik is still going to face Seth Rollins at SummerSlam in what is now a STREET FIGHT! Rey says there is only one word that can describe how he’s felt since Extreme Rules: pain. And a lot of it. Pain for what Rollins did to Rey’s eye, and an even worse pain for what Rollins did to Dominik. “Having to witness my own flesh and blood in agony, not being able to do anything about it,” as he saw that savage kendo stick beating, made Rey feel a rage that he has never felt before. Rey wanted to be there to protect Dominik. He needed to be there to stop that beating, or even take it himself so Dominik wouldn’t suffer.
Rey may not be fully recovered from his eye injury, and there is a chance that may never happen. But there’s no doctor that can stop Rey from protecting his son! “So Seth, escucha me.” Listen closely, Seth. You will not repeat what you did to Dominik, because Rey will be in his corner as he watches Dominik kick Rollins’ ass in that Street Fight! Dominik thanks his father for all of that. Dominik knew what he was in for when he signed a WWE contract. He knows what he has to do to defend the Mysterio family, and will be ready. Father and son hug as the crowd cheers. Rey says Dominik has no idea how proud he is right now. Rey loves his son, and admires his son’s determination, as well as the will to defend the family name. If Rollins gets anywhere near them tonight, Rollins will be the one that won’t make it to SummerSlam.
“Well, well, well.” Rollins didn’t think they’d show up. Rey is a lot of things, some good and some bad, but Rollins didn’t think he was an idiot. Six days away from his son’s most important moment, and yet he’s put Dominik in danger. Why? For Rey’s own personal glory, because it’s always been about Rey! So selfish. What kind of father is he? Rollins can’t understand why Rey continues to put himself and his son in such preventable situations. Everyone has a role to play in the “greater good,” yet Rey resisted. This could’ve been avoided if Rey accepted his role. Rey got hurt, Dominik got hurt, yet they still haven’t learned. The most tragic thing of all is that it won’t just be Rey or Dominik, but the Mysterio name and legacy that will become the ultimate sacrifice.
Rey tells Rollins that if he’s the Monday Night Messiah, a man using big words, maybe he should show up and back them up. Rollins laughs and asks, “What is wrong with you, man?” Rey has one eye and Dominik can barely stand. But they asked for this. Don’t move from that ring. Rollins and Murphy are headed their way! The Mysterios wait, and Rollins and Murphy return to ringside. Rollins takes off his suit jacket and loosens his tie as he and Murphy go down the ramp. The Mysterios get out of the ring, and Rollins taunts them. Mysterio talked big but can’t back up his own words? If they want this, come get it! But is it because his boy is hurt?
Rey eggs them on as they egg him on, but Dominik gets kendo sticks!! And he SMACKS Rollins from behind! And then SMACKS away on Murphy! And more for Rollins! Rey gets the other stick and they both SMACK away on Rollins!! Front and back, just like Dominik took! They tie Rollins up in ropes, but Murphy runs back in, only to get the SMACKS for Rollins! Disciple and leader run away, but it won’t end here! SummerSlam brings us a Street Fight in the Thunderdome, who walks out not so much the winner, but the least battered and bruised?
MVP finds Cedric Alexander backstage.
“My, my, my, ain’t this a familiar scene.” What does MVP want? What does he have to say? Relax, man! MVP gets where Alexander is. Just a young man navigating the WWE, wanting to be in the ring rather than back here. But it wasn’t MVP’s friends who held him back. Alexander knows MVP is just stirring the pot again. But the difference is that Apollo is looking out for Alexander. What does MVP know of looking out for someone else’s best interests? MVP plays along, since Apollo was in the #FullLashley just like Alexander and can understand the pain. But it could be that Apollo thinks Alexander is the weak link. Ricochet must’ve spoken up for him, though, right? Well, maybe not. It must be really hard being in a tag with the the #OneAndOnly.
MVP says that offer is still on the table. Just think it over while you’re enjoying the “fine cuisine” of catering. Alexander grows frustrated as he thinks about it. Will he take that offer?
We return to Raw Underground!
Last week, we saw these two have impressive wins! It’s Arturo Ruas VS Riddick Moss! It begins! Rusas knees but Moss dodges! Ruas fires off hands and a boot but Moss hits a SPINE BUSTER! Moss rains down rights but Ruas pushes him away. Ruas Eddy Gordo kicks! Ruas has Moss on the defense with kicks at the legs and body shots all over. But Moss grabs Ruas by the beard and hammers away with forearms! Ruas pulls hair to give them all back! Moss and Ruas slug it out, Ruas SPINE BUSTERS this time! Ruas rains down rights, gets around to sleeper hold, but Moss powers up to his feet. Moss has Ruas as a backpack for the SENTON! Moss clubs away on Ruas, stomps away, but Ruas gets the kneebar on that leg!
Moss scrambles, fights back, they clinch on the mat but Ruas gets the heel hook! Moss rolls them out of the ring to break the hold! The crowd gets a bit handsie trying to get them back into this, and Ruas ROCKS the guy closest to him! Moss ROCKS the guy near him! Shane calls it because “that was sick!” Will things only get wilder on Raw Underground?
Six Man Elimination Tag: The Hurt Business VS Apollo Crews, Ricochet & Mustafa Ali!
MVP may not have Benjamin and Lashley ringside for SummerSlam, but the Hurt Business looks to get even with Apollo and his crew. Will the King of Flight and Beacon of Light help Apollo shine tonight?
The teams sort out and we start with Benjamin and Ali. They circle, tie up, Benjamin powers Ali to a corner but lets up to knee low. The ref reprimands, Benjamin whips Ali corner to corner. Ali goes up and over, arm-drags Benjamin around and then gets an armlock. The crowd rallies but Benjamin fights up. Ali wrenches and tags in Ricochet. Ricochet goes up and drops ax handles on the arm. Ricochet wrenches now, but Benjamin pushes him away. Ricochet dropkick-flips and enziguris! Cover, ONE! Ricochet tags Ali and Ali brings Benjamin to a waistlock. Benjamin elbows out and tags in Lashley, and Lashley runs Ali over to then hit Ricochet and Apollo out, all without slowing down!
Lashley drags Ali up for the Canadian rack, DOMINATOR! Cover, Lashley ELIMINATES Ali already!! The crowd boos but Ricochet runs in to go after Lashley with forearms. Lashley swings, Ricochet dodges to keep throwing hands. Lashley shoves Ricochet, Ricochet comes back into the MOUNTAIN HIGH SPINE BUSTER! Tag to Benjamin as Ricochet sits up in a daze. Benjamin taunts Apollo before he gives Ricochet the PAY DIRT! Cover, Benjamin ELIMINATES Ricochet!! Apollo’s crew is already done! Apollo steps in, Benjamin knees and clubs away, throws big forearms, but Apollo hits back. Benjamin whips corner to corner, Apollo dodges the splash, CREWS MISSILE!! Cover, Apollo ELIMINATES Benjamin!
Things are a bit more even as MVP steps up now. MVP and Apollo circle, but Alexander takes advantage of Benjamin being 24/7 Champion! Roll up, Alexander wins!!
Winner: Cedric Alexander, by pinfall (NEW WWE 24/7 Champion)
So much for that offer MVP made! Alexander snatches the title and runs for it! “What now, Hurt Business?!” Will Benjamin stay to support his team? Or will he chase after the Age of Alexander and the gold? We find out after the break!
Raw returns as MVP clubs away on Apollo and stomps in a mudhole. The ref counts, MVP lets off but Apollo chops back. MVP ROCKS Apollo with rights but Apollo hits back. MVP fires off in anger and clubs Apollo down. MVP whips Apollo to a corner hard, and Apollo bounces off buckles. MVP drags Apollo up, throws him out, then goes out to bring him up. MVP bounces Apollo off the apron, put shim in the ring and covers, TWO! MVP brings Apollo up, tags Lashley in and they mug Apollo. Lashley clubs Apollo, Apollo kicks back but Lashley fires off on him! The ref backs Lashley off but Lashley digs his boot into Apollo. Lashley lets up at the count to drag Apollo up and runs corner to corner, to RAM into Apollo!
Tag to MVP, MVP runs corner to corner and BOOTS Apollo down! Cover, TWO! MVP is annoyed and he drags Apollo back up. MVP throws body shots, whips Apollo out then in, then runs, only to get buckles! Apollo reels MVP in, CREWS MISSILE!! Cover, Apollo ELIMINATES MVP! But Lashley gets right on Apollo with big forearms! Lashley digs a knee into Apollo’s head, pulls on the arm and clubs the shoulder. Lashley drags Apollo around just to kick him while he’s down. The crowd boos as Lashley whips but Apollo comes back with big forearms! And an enziguri! Lashley wobbles into another enziguri! Apollo hits a basement enziguri, then a standing moonsault! Cover, TWO!
The crowd is thunderous as Apollo brings Lashley up. Lashley standing switches and wants his full nelson! Apollo resists, elbows free and throws forearms. They both run, Lashley SPEARS!! Cover, The Hurt Business wins!
Winners: The Hurt Business, by pinfall
But that isn’t enough for Lashley or Benjamin! They and MVP are all in the ring, but MVP keeps them from adding on. Will Apollo be able to fight back up with the title on the line? Or is that brand new belt coming back to its creator?
Shane talks with Shayna backstage.
The Queen of Spades confirms that Shafir and Duke are legit. Will the Horsewomen make their debuts not on Raw, but on Raw Underground!?
WWE 24/7 Championship: Cedric Alexander VS Akira Tozawa w/ Ninjas!
Raw returns and the newly minted champion is already being put to the test! Will the former Soul of 205 Live be able to thwart the Stamina Monster like back in the day?
The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Alexander gets the arm, Tozawa rolls through to wrench back. Alexander rolls and handsprings to wrench back on Tozawa. MVP watches backstage as Alexander wrings Tozawa out and dropkicks him down! Alexander kips up and stalks Tozawa. Tozawa goes to a corner and wants a little mercy. But then Tozawa says, “Ninja! Ninja! NINJA POWAH~!” And his ninjas go into action, only for Alexander to ROCK one off the apron onto the other two! Tozawa dodges Alexander to back kick, swing, slide under and spin kick again! Alexander is in the drop zone, Tozawa heads up top! Tozawa leaps but has to bail out as Alexander moves. Alexander handsprings, NEURALIZER! LUMBAR CHECK!! Cover, Alexander wins!
Winner: Cedric Alexander, by pinfall (still WWE 24/7 Champion)
The first defense is a success, putting an exclamation point on sticking it to MVP! But then Benjamin returns to hit PAY DIRT!! Cover, Benjamin wins!!
Winner: Shelton Benjamin, by pinfall (NEW WWE 24/7 Champion)
The Gold Standard has the gold back already, sticking it back to Alexander! Will Alexander think twice before trying to hurt the Hurt Business?
Raw Underground officially sets up a match next week!
After what happened between Ziggler and Ivar, the Show-Off will have to answer to the Warbeard! Will Ziggler sweep the Viking Raiders? Or will he be run over by the raid?
Speaking of, we return to Raw Underground!
And the deal has been struck, Marina Shafir has her first fight! She doesn’t even wait for Shane to give the go ahead, she throws her hat at her opponent and throws hands! The Supernova throws her opponent down, drags her back up by her hair, but her opponent SLAPS back! Shafir blocks and hits a takedown! Then she drags her opponent around. She cartwheels to avoid the kick to give a kick back! And then, heel hook triangle hold combo!! Her opponent taps, Shafir wins!
Winner: Marina Shafir
But then NIA JAX attacks Marina?! Jessamyn Duke jumps up but Nia knocks her down! The suspended Irresistible Force just doesn’t care, so long as she can go after Shayna and those connected to her! Shayna gets in and dares Nia to step up. Suspensions on Raw mean nothing to the Underground! They throw down, but Nia runs away! She kicks Marina on the way out, but the crowd chants, “She’s scared~! She’s scared~!” Will the Horsewomen make sure Nia pays for punking them out?
Montez Ford w/ Angelo Dawkins VS Andrade Almas w/ Angel Garza!
After the shocking reveal that wasn’t a surprise, #KingTez is back for revenge! Will he give El Idolo what he gets for having such a sneaky manager?
The bell rings and Ford circles with Almas. Almas rushes Ford but Ford dodges to fire off fast hands! Ford whips but Almas kicks him back. Ford just dropkicks Almas out! Almas checks himself but Ford FLIES! Direct hit at the ramp! Ford puts Almas in, climbs to the top but Almas trips him up. Almas throws forearms, CHOPS Ford back, then climbs up to join him. Almas wants the superplex but Ford resists. Dawkins makes sure Garza and Vega stay back while Ford fights back. Almas still hits the SUPERPLEX! Cover, TWO! Ford grits his teeth while Almas sneers. Almas wraps Ford up in a chinlock and grinds him down.
The crowd rallies as Ford endures and fights his way up. Ford fights out with elbows but Almas rocks him with a right! Almas CHOPS Ford against the ropes then whips. Ford reverses to LARIAT! Ford whips, Almas reverses but Ford goes up and over the back drop to hit another lariat! Ford kips right up to standing moonsault! Cover, TWO! Vega is stressing out as Ford watches Almas go to a corner. Ford runs in but Almas boots him down! Almas hops up, Ford comes back to NO HANDS RANA! Ford fires up with the rope shaking and he climbs up top. Vega is on the apron to distract and Almas ROCKS Ford with an uppercut! But Vega spots Bianca Belair! Vega leaps, into Bianca’s arms and a SLAM! Almas is distracted by this, Ford rolls him up! Ford wins!
Winner: Montez Ford, by pinfall
The Street Profits just got even with Vega’s team! But it won’t really be even until they’ve had their Raw Tag Team Championship match! Will things finally be settled at SummerSlam?
HBK heads through the backstage area.
Shawn says hi to Titus O’Neil, Humberto Carrillo and even R-Truth. HBK is headed to the ring, what happens when he calls out Randy Orton?
Shawn Michaels goes to the ring!
The crowd goes wild for the Heartbreak Kid as he gets himself a mic. He wishes he was here under a more exciting note. Footage of Orton’s shocking betrayal replays. Last week, with tears rolling down his face, HBK watched as Flair relived the worst 31 days of his life. Those 31 days where the Nature Boy was on his death bed, just wanting to tell those he loved how he felt. HBK wants us to know that Ric, more than anyone, loved performing inside this ring. If it wasn’t for guys like Ric, there would be no HBK, no HHH, no Batista, no Edge, no Christian, no Big Show and certainly no Drew McIntyre. There’s of course another guy on that list in Randy Orton.
But unlike the others, Orton doesn’t have the same gratitude or appreciation. Even though Flair was his mentor for YEARS, one of the best EVER, Orton didn’t appreciate that. No, Orton feels he was owed something like that. “Randy. I don’t know how it’s going to happen, but I can assure you it is going to happen. At SummerSlam, I don’t know if you’re going to meet your justice at the end of a Sweet Chin Music, or if you meet it from a Claymore,” HBK assures Orton that he will see it coming! HBK drops the mic and heads out, but Orton is there! RKO OUTTA NOWHERE!! And then a PUNT as quick as that!! McIntyre shows up and is furious that he couldn’t help another legend! McIntyre makes sure HBK is okay, and shouts “get some help out here!”
Referees hurry out but Orton comes back! McIntyre throws haymakers! And then clotheslines Orton out! McIntyre pursues, throwing Orton into steel steps! And into Plexiglas! And then into more Plexigalas! And over the announce table! McIntyre glares down at the Viper before going back to HBK. Where are the medics?! Orton just slithers back in to RKO McIntyre!! Orton glares down at McIntyre but leaves it at this, because he wants that WWE World Championship. Will the Legend Killer end McIntyre before he even becomes a legend? Or can McIntyre deny Orton that next step towards breaking the Nature Boy’s reign record?
My Thoughts:
A really wild go-home tonight, though it almost felt too wild at times. First, and as I believe I said for SmackDown, Retribution is way more active on SmackDown. Yes, Retribution “messed” with the broadcast to start, but that was it, and was honestly more annoying than anything. But I think it was good for MVP to put it out there that there is a mastermind, more than likely within the existing roster. And I like the tiny detail that someone brought up this not being the forgotten SmackDown hacker. Hopefully SummerSlam takes a moment to give us some real progress on Retribution, both on the members and the motives. And please don’t let Tommaso Ciampa be any of that.
There was a LOT of Hurt Business going on, and oddly none of it in Raw Underground despite that first segment. I like that they made a match to determine if MVP can have Lashley and Benjamin ringside, and it is great that he can’t because now things will definitely be more of a blow off. There was a lot of back and forth with the WWE 24/7 Championship in regards to the Hurt Business, with Benjamin winning it, losing it, then winning it back all in one night. It was still pretty good, but it also felt like filler just to get it in before SummerSlam. It does help build things so that Alexander ends up the focus of the feud next. I wonder if there’s also a point where a faction heads for the Raw Tag Team Championships.
There was also a lot of development for the Raw Tag Team title story all over the night. Garza beats Ivar to “impress” Demi Burnett, but the reveal that Vega did “poison” Ford seemed like a letdown. It could’ve still been one of the two between Almas and Garza, but oh well. Also, I feel like they could’ve written this slightly different to make it better. It needed to be where Vega denies poisoning Ford, but there’s that twist of, “No one said he was poisoned.” And then the video evidence adds on and we still get to where we are now. Ford and Bianca get the better of Almas and Vega, but I still feel like the title match can go either way. And again, the winner can move on to take on either the Hurt Business or Apollo’s crew for the next stretch.
Poor Mickie James. Her return match ends up overshadowed by the Monday Night Messiah story. Of course, I don’t think anyone wants to be forced to focus on social media obsessed Lana trying to make Natty’s matches worthy of views and likes and all that. I hope Mickie gets someone to watch her back and counter Lana. No idea who, though. The Riott Squad being used against itself might be a bit rushed. It is fitting that Peyton’s finisher is Deja Vu for the pun, though. We got an AMAZING match out of Asuka & Shayna VS Golden Role Models. And it seems Nia is still going to be around. It just shows that security guards in wrestling mean nothing. Nia keeps getting in and out, the same as Retribution. Her first brawl with Shayna was fine, but I would’ve kept her away, as her retreating in Raw Underground makes her look weak.
As for Asuka, the WWE is her oyster with the three obvious routes she can take. She could win both, which would be amazing and well deserved. She could win the SmackDown Women’s Championship but be screwed out of the Raw Women’s Championship, and that moves Asuka over to SmackDown so Fox can have the incredibly popular superstar for a moment. Or she could somehow lose the SmackDown title match, probably because of cheap tactics, but then “redeems” herself by winning the Raw title, to then face Shayna for the rest of the year. There’s also the fact that Shayna and Asuka beat the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and they could get in the mix towards Payback. I doubt that’ll be the case, and it’ll be left to Riott Squad or IIconics, though neither of those feel like they could outright beat Sasha and Bayley.
Raw Underground is still going strong for just being around the last few weeks. I like that we’re already getting some serious competition between the established names. Erik and Ziggler had a great go around, and Ziggler VS Ivar next week is going to be great, too. For one, it’s a historic first for Raw Underground in scheduling a match rather than letting it be who wants in next. Also, I really like seeing Kona Reeves as that extra excited fan swinging his shirt while he sits way up high. Moss and Ruas had a great bit, but I wish they were allowed time to settle it. And while Nia basically hit and run, Marina Shafir was looking really good getting in the ring for Underground. This might be more her speed to get pro-wrestling ready, and the same for Jessamyn Duke.
McIntyre being part of the opening that gets “ruined” by Retribution was an odd move, but I suppose it needed to establish his mission for the night. It was pretty clear that with HBK waiting until the end of the night, and just showing up at all, he was going to get attacked by Orton. I feel like Raw didn’t let anyone stand tall for very long tonight, and not even McIntyre was exempt. HBK gave him that great talk backstage but Orton just doesn’t stop as he goes after McIntyre. I feel like that’s how Raw chose to keep the booking 50-50 on the night, so who knows who wins at SummerSlam. The same for Dominik VS Rollins. Now that it is officially a Street Fight, anything could happen, such as interference from Murphy or even a returning Austin Theory or Authors of Pain (though there hasn’t been any news on those three in any form). It’s hard to be sure if the Faces come away with this or not.
My Score: 8.4/10
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IF YA SMELLALALALALALA~…!
As Cody Rhodes teams with Damian Priest & Braun Strowman against Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline, FINALLY, The Rock has come back to SmackDown!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso; Jimmy wins.
- The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & LA Knight; Miz & Melo win.
- Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae w/ Nia Jax; Tiff wins.
- Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez; No Contest.
- WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly; Pretty Deadly wins, by disqualification, and DIY retain the titles.
- Six Man Tag: Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga; changed to…
- Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga; Priest & Braun win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes talks with Nick Aldis backstage.
They shake hands, but the SmackDown General Manager tells the WWE Champion there’s been a change: Cody’s out of the Six Man Tag match. What? Why would Aldis do that? It is out of Aldis’s hands. Wait, Solo Sikoa shows up to do what he did, but they can’t do the Six Man Tag that they advertised? How is this out of Aldis’s hands? Who do they need to talk to so they can do the match? Aldis says there’s no one either of them can call, if you smell what’s cooking. This is coming from The Final Boss, and The Final Boss wants to see Cody in the ring tonight. What business could The Great One have with The American Nightmare?
Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso!
The Scottish Terminator rubbed it in Big Jim’s face that only one of them is going to Elimination Chamber in Toronto, which Big Jim was able to brush off. But McIntyre harping on how only one Uso is going to WrestleMania was a step too far. These two look to have it out, but is Jimmy just playing into McIntyre’s hands? Or will McIntyre get embarrassed by “the other Uso” this close to that big time match?
Speaking of, Jimmy has a message for Drew as he heads to gorilla. “Everybody know you’re going to Elimination Chamber, right? But Big Jimmy got a question for the Big Easy: Will Drew go onto the Elimination Chamber and win that? Will Drew go onto WrestleMania and win that? Ey, Drew, I think we got an answer for you, Uce. The answer is…” “NO YEET!” Jimmy makes his entrance, the bell rings, and the fans rally behind Jimmy. Jimmy and Drew jaw, and then Drew raises his hands, to say UP YOURS! But Jimmy ROCKS and CHOPS away! Drew puts Jimmy in a corner, Jimmy dodges to CHOP!
Jimmy climbs and he rains down fists! The fans count, Drew dumps Jimmy tot eh apron at 5, but Jimmy GAMANGIRIS! Jimmy goes up, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Jimmy hurries to CHOP, then he whips. Drew reverses to send Jimmy to the corner. Jimmy BOOTS back, goes up, and leaps, but into a clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders to a corner, Drew runs up to SPLASH and OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders again, the ref has Drew hold on, and Jimmy bails out. Drew storms out to get Jimmy and he whips Jimmy HARD into barrier! The fans boo but Drew looms over Jimmy.
The ring count starts, Drew mockingly calls him “Jey,” then puts Jimmy in the ring. Drew says NO MANIA for Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, ROCKS him, then runs up, only for Jimmy to put him on the apron! Drew blocks a superkick, but not the DRAGON WHIP! Drew drops, Jimmy DIVES! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! Jimmy grins, goes back to the apron, and then aims. But Drew stops the Penalty Kick to THROW Jimmy down! Drew then has Jimmy in the Reverse Alabama Lift! REVERSE ALABAMA SLAM onto the steel steps! Drew stands on the desk to say “NO YEET!” while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew revels in the heat from New Orleans, then he leaves Jimmy behind. The ref checks Jimmy, he’s able to continue, so a ring count starts. Drew paces while Jimmy stirs. Jimmy drags himself up using the desk, then lunges in at 9! Drew is annoyed but he rains down fists! Drew stomps Jimmy, then eggs him on. Jimmy rises as the fans rally, but Drew is right on him in the corner. Drew winds up, but Jimmy counter punches! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And whips, only for Drew to reverses. Jimmy goes up, but Drew KICKS him out of the air! Drew then hauls Jimmy up, snap suplex! Cover, TWO!
Drew says okay, Big Jim. He clamps onto Jimmy with a top wristlock and grinds the arm. Jimmy fights up, fireman’s carries, but Drew elbows free. Drew bumps Jimmy off buckles, then hauls him up to the top rope! Drew CLUBS Jimmy on the back, climbs up, then CLUBS Jimmy more. Jimmy fires elbows and Drew drops back. But Drew runs up to CLUB Jimmy again! SmackDown returns to single picture as Drew CLUBS away on Jimmy again! Jimmy keeps taunting “Jey,” then drags him up. Jimmy fights the back suplex! The fans rally, Jimmy fires hands and a HEADBUTT! Jimmy SMACKS Drew off the post!
Jimmy rises to USO IN THE WIND! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! A standing count starts while both men stir on the mat. They both stand at 5, and Drew swings! Jimmy counter punches, then fires more shots! Mule kick, UPPERCUT, but then Jimmy dodges Drew! SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Drew is tougher than that, but Jimmy hurries to a corner. Jimmy aims as Drew goes to the other corner, “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs, but Drew FLYING HEADBUTTS! The Glasgow Kiss stuns Jimmy, and Drew hits a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Jimmy shows his own toughness, and the fans rally behind him.
Drew paces, then he stalks Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, reels him in, but Jimmy fights the underhooks! Jimmy wrenches, UPPERCUTS, but Drew ROCKS Jimmy back! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, Drew HAYMAKERS! Drew whips, Jimmy reverses and Drew ends up on the apron! Drew ROCKS Jimmy first, then climbs the corner! FLYING- SUPERKICK! Jimmy runs to SPEAR! Cover, TWO!! Drew survives, Jimmy’s spear doesn’t hit quite like The Tribal Chief’s. Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and the fans rally up. USO- NO, Jimmy rolls through as Drew moves! Drew dodges a lariat to NECKBREAKER!
Both men are down, the fans rally, and Drew kips up! Drew scowls as he aims at Jimmy. “THREE! TWO! ONE!” CLAY- SUPERKICK!! Jimmy hits first! GLASGOW KISS returns! Drew reels Jimmy in, “This is your WrestleMania! This is as close as you get!” Drew shouts Jimmy is nothing, then ROCKS him with forearm after forearm! GLASGOW KISS! Another Reverse Alabama, but Jimmy victory rolls it! JIMMY WINS!!!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Drew is furious, but his own ego caught him there! But then Drew CLOBBERS Jimmy! The fans boo Drew being a sore loser, but he puts Jimmy back in the ring! Drew rains down fists, then he DRIBBLES Jimmy off the mat! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but Drew says that was Jimmy’s Mania Moment! Drew will win the Chamber, he will go to Mania, and he will win there! Jimmy means NOTHING to Drew! Drew puts Jimmy up against the post, then takes aim! The fans boo, but refs and producers rush out here! They swarm Drew to keep him from going after Jimmy again. Drew says fine, fine, then takes his leave.
Producers help Jimmy to his feet, but then Drew BLASTS through the refs! CLAYMORE for Jimmy!! The Scottish Terminator hits his target, then laughs as he actually leaves. Will McIntyre make this his Road to WrestleMania?
A car pulls into the parking lot.
And out steps Solo Sikoa. Solo heads inside, and he finds Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga waiting. Solo tells them that last week with Tama, that was an accident. Jacob says yeah, it’s all good, Uce. But keep it 100: If it wasn’t an accident, Solo wouldn’t be standing here right now. Well, good! Glad to see we’re all on the same page. Solo says he will be in the corner during the match for Jacob & Tama. Uh, no, Solo, no disrespect, but Jacob & Tama have been running things on SmackDown these past couple weeks. So tonight, it’s Jacob & Solo running the play? Yadada mean? Yeah, of course. And that right there, Jacob, is exactly why Solo loves him.
Solo says he’ll be back, he has to talk with Nick Aldis. Solo heads out, but will he really just step right back into place from before he lost the ula fala?
Carmelo Hayes is backstage.
R-Truth calls out to Melo, and says for the first time ever, Truth VS Melo! What’s Truth talking about? Duh, they have a match. No, Truth, Melo knows. But they had a match last week. Truth says he has never met Melo in his life, but they have a tag match tonight. What? No, they don’t. Who even made this match? Him. Truth, they are not going through this H1M who’s on first thing again. Melo is H1M. No, him made the match. The Miz!? Miz says he’s H1M. So now there’s two of you? No no no! Melo is H1M, this is The Miz! Yeah, #MeloDon’tMiz! NO! That’s not a thing! Tonight, they are. Who’s Truth’s partner?
Truth says he’s got a guy. A Louisiana legend! In fact, he just got here, so Truth’s gotta go. Laters. Miz says he has been workshopping this, and the fans love it. Think about it: Melo Don’t Miz! Melo Don’t Miz! And we are…! Melo shakes his head. Truth steps in and says Miz just wants Melo to say, “Awesome.” Miz offers a fist bump, Melo says no. Will Melo wish he had missed tonight’s show? Or will Miz actually help H1M get another win?
Zelina Vega speaks.
“My whole life, people have taken one look at me, and they try to define me. My size has never stopped me before. It never stopped me from becoming tag team champion. Or my personal favorite, the history-making first-time-ever Queen of the Ring. That’s me. Make no mistake about it, I’ve never had it easy. I had to scratch and claw to get anything around here. But this is a fresh start. Because I have something to prove. And my dreams are a lot bigger than your measuring stick. It ain’t over until Zelina Vega says it’s over.”
The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & ???
Miz makes his entrance but Melo kinda steps all over it. So he already missed his cue… But who did Truth find to team with him in the Big Easy? We’ll see, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Truth makes his entrance. “What’s up?” Well, more like who is his partner? He’ll tell us! His tag team partner is a local legend, born and bred right here in New Orleans! Ladies and gentlemen, welcome Louisiana Knight! Wait, he means L A Knight! Yes, Louisiana abbreviated is LA, but that’s not… Oh, Truth… Truth gives Knight a Po’ Boy and some Mardi Gras beads, so Knight embraces it. The teams sort out, and Truth calls out him! Does he mean Miz or Melo? Well, Melo says he is H1M, so that’s who starts. The fans cheer on Knight while Truth and Melo tie up. Melo KNEES low, whips, but Truth reverses.
Melo springboards, FADEAWAY JUMPER! Melo makes his free throw, but Truth drop toeholds! Truth headlocks, Melo powers up and out but Truth whips! Melo turns hip toss into lateral press, TWO! Truth has a ghost pin, TWO! Melo trips to cover, ONE! Truth trips to cover, ONE! Melo runs up, Truth does the splits, and then hits a BIG hip toss! The fans fire up, Truth counts, Melo gets up at TWO, but Truth was just goofing. The ref explains to Truth that he is the ref, not Truth! Melo is annoyed, he runs up on Truth, but Truth wrenches him around! Melo pulls hair but Knight tags in. The fans fire up as Knight fires hands!
Knight ROCKS Melo, whips Melo, but Melo reverses! SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Knight drags Melo up to tag Truth back in, and Truth ROCKS Melo! Melo staggers, but he refuses to tag! Truth arm-drags Melo, then grinds the arm. Melo insists he’s got this, then arm-drags free. Truth staggers up, he and Melo bump heads! Truth staggers around more, and he tags Miz?! Truth forgot The Awesome Truth isn’t a thing anymore! Again! Melo BLASTS Truth off the apron, the fans boo, but Miz tags himself in! Melo is annoyed, but Miz goes to fetch Truth while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again, and Melo has Truth. Truth ROCKS Melo, but Melo holds onto the wristlock! Truth reaches for Knight, Knight reaches for Truth, but Melo holds on. Truth takes a swing, but into an O’Conner Roll! TWO and Melo BLASTS Knight! Truth rolls Melo up, TWO! Melo kicks low, calls his shot, but Truth suplexes for a STUNNER! The fans fire up while both men are down! Truth and Melo crawl, hot tags to Miz and Knight! The fans fire up as Knight rallies on Miz! “YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips, Miz reverses, but Knight lEAPING LARIATS! Knight TOSSES Melo in for good measure!
Knight stomps a mudhole into Melo, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” LARIAT for Miz! KNEE for Melo! Knight scoops and POWERSLAMS Miz! Knight keeps running, JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Knight stays on Miz as he brings Miz up. Knight ROCKS Miz, then ROCKS him again! Knight whips, Miz grabs the ropes. Miz KICKS, then takes a swing, but into a back suplex! Miz lands out, tag to Melo! Miz ELBOWS Knight, but Knight scoops! Miz tilt-o-whirls through, Melo SUPERKICKS Knight down! cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Melo says he’s got this! Melo waits on Knight, then leaps, but NO 48!
Knight kicks low, but NO B F T! Tag to Truth! Knight ELBOWS Melo, Truth runs in! CENA SHOULDER TACKLES! Then the SPIN OUT BOMB! Truth says it’s time! “YOU CANT SEE ME~!” truth runs for the FIVE KNCUKLE SHUFFLE! Truth then fireman’s carries, but Melo slips free! Melo shoves, Truth dodges, and Truth hits the LIE DETECTOR! Truth then gets Melo in the S T R-TRUTH! But Miz CLOBBERS Truth! Knight ROCKS Miz, then LARIATS him up and out! Knight then goes out to THROW Miz into barriers! The fans fire up again, but NAKAMURA ATTACKS KNIGHT!
The fans boo, but the sinister samurai then POSTS Knight!! Nakamura slithers away while Melo keeps the ref’s attention! Truth sees Knight is down, Melo runs up, but Truth dodges! Miz tags in, full nelson, and a FIRST 48 FINALE COMBO?!? Cover, Miz & Melo win!!
Winners: The Miz & Carmelo Hayes, by pinfall
Well, what do you know? Nakamura aside, Miz and Melo made it work! Okay, they’re both trying to hog the spotlight, but is there a future for Melo Don’t Miz? Will Knight only have more of a reason to take that title off Nakamura now?
Charlotte Flair speaks.
“The GOAT… doesn’t have to call themselves The GOAT. Now, I have crafted a legacy that no one, I mean no one, can touch. And I’m back.” The Women’s Royal Rumble Winner chose Tiffany Stratton, but will The Queen take back her throne? Or will WWE always be on #TiffyTime? Speaking of…
Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae!
The WWE Women’s Champion may have gotten past Nia Jax, but now she knows Charlotte Flair is waiting for her at WrestleMania, and is going to be teaming with Trish Stratus in Toronto! Will she be in Tiffy Top Shape for that Tiffy Trishy dream match? Or will the Poison Pixie be quite the problem all on her own?
Before the match, Tiff grabs a mic while the fans cheer. Tiffy says, “I know, I know. You know it, you know it, and you know it. Ever since I won this title, everybody’s just been so obsessed with me. And last week, I had Nia Jax beat, until Candice LeRae decided to interfere and help her little meal ticket. And at Elimination Chamber, Trish Stratus and I make sure the Unstoppable Force comes to a definitive end!” The fans cheer that, but Tiff says enough about them. Let’s talk Charlotte Flair. The fans boo that name, but Tiff says Charlotte took her sweet old time, grabbed a chair, grabbed a mic, and she looked down on Tiff.
Charlotte chose Tiff as her WrestleMania opponent. In that moment, Tiff’s dream came true! And as she lied down there and looked up at Charlotte, she realized the rumors are true: No one loves to kick a girl when she’s down quite like Charlotte Flair. So at WrestleMania, Tiff isn’t coming for Charlotte’s legacy; that’s all Charlotte’s. Tiff is coming for the spot Charlotte desires the most: The number one spot as the top girl in the WWE! But here comes Nia & Candice to interrupt. Nia has a mic to tell Tiffy, “I Have to say, this is really cute. Like, it’s really cute that you actually think you were gonna beat me last week.”
Doesn’t Candice think that is cute? Candice says yes, it is so~ cute. And Tiff wouldn’t even be standing there if not for little Trish Stratus~. Exactly! And it’s even cuter that Tiff is out here talking about Charlotte when she wont’ even see WrestleMania! Because after Nia & Candide destroy Tiff at Elimination Chamber, Nia is coming back for her WWE Women’s Championship. Nia & Candice step up to the ring, and Nia says Tiff won’t even see the Grandest Stage of Them All. Tiff tells Nia to just give it up. This title isn’t even hers anymore. And once Tiff beats Candice tonight, Nia won’t have anyone to do her dirty work anymore!
Candice tells Tiffy that while they’re meant have a match right now, she and Nia are feeling impatient. Nia says they should just get rid of Tiff right now! But the ref steps in and says not gonna happen! Tiff VS Candice will, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Candice has Tiffy down with an armlock. Tiff fights up as the fans rally, but Candice wrenches to wristlock. Tiff spins through, goes to ropes, then up the corner to flip and arm-drag! The fans fire up as Tiff rallies on Candice! DROPKICK, and Tiff snarls! Tiff goes to the corner, and Charlotte makes her entrance? The Queen chooses to be fashionably late all so everyone looks at her, including Tiffy. Tiffy handsprings, but Candice dodges! Candice runs up to UPPERCUT, then she snapmares and NECK SNAPPERS! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Candice clamps onto Tiffy with a top wristlock.
The fans “WOO~” as Charlotte now chooses to join commentary. Tiff fights up, has the ROPEBREAK, but Candice CLUBS away on her! Candice backs off, runs up, but Tiff drop toeholds her to ropes! Tiff runs, HIP ATTACKS, and Candice flops back! Cover, TWO! Tiff stays on Candice with a whip, but Candice reverses. Candice CLOBBERS Tiff, covers, TWO! Charlotte corrects Tiffy’s words earlier: Charlotte isn’t the “top girl,” she is THE woman in WWE. Candice HIP DROPS Tiff but the fans rally up. Candice scuffs Tiff, then grinds an arm to drop a knee on the elbow! And another knee drop! Tiff endures and the fans rally up.
Candice keeps on that arm, thrashes it around, but Tiff fights up. Tiff fires body shots, then shoves Candice to Alabama Lift her! Candice sunset flips, Tiff rolls through, TIFFY STOMPS! Cover, TWO! Tiff is frustrated and Candice bails out. Tiff goes to the apron, goes up the corner, and ARIHARA MOONSAULTS! Direct hit on Candice and Nia, and Tiff almost stuck the landing! The fans fire up with Tiff and she goes into the ring. Tiff points to the WrestleMania sign, and then at Charlotte, but SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Tiff waits on Candice, Candice slides in, and Tiff stomps her down! Candice bails out, Nia is there to coach her, but Tiff lets the ring count start. Candice gets on the apron, Tiff kicks her, but Candice RAMS Tiff! Candice CLUBS Tiff, has her in the ropes, and hits a NECKBREAKER HOTSHOT! Candice climbs, aims, and leaps to MISSILE DROPKICK Tiff down! Cover, TWO! Candice is frustrated but this is why Tiff’s a champ. The fans rally, but Candice stomps Tiff! Candice scowls at the fans, stalks Tiff, then brings her up. Tiff fires body shots, then she rolls Candice up! TWO, and Candice CLOBBERS Tiff! Cover, TWO, into a ghost pin! TWO!
Candice escapes to hit a CODE BREAKER! Both women are down, but Candice scowls again as she crawls over to Tiff. Candice rains down fists, Nia tells fans to shut up, and Candice steps on Tiff’s face. Candice huffs ‘n’ puffs, pushes Tiff around, then scuffs her. Tiff rolls Candice up again, TWO! Candice DECKS Tiff! Cover, TWO! Charlotte is stoic on commentary as Candice drags Tiff up and puts her in a corner. Candice fires hands, then backs off. Candice runs up to ROCK Tiff again! Candice then runs, but Tiff dodges! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Tiff rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT! The fans fire up, Tiff handsprings, BACK ELBOW!
Tiff then reels Candice in for a SKY HIGH! High stack, TWO! The fans rally for Tiff, Nia coaches Candice, but Charlotte still seems nonplussed. Tiff and Candice rise, and Candice runs up. Candice puts Tiff on the apron, but Tiff ROCKS her! Tiff bumps Candice off buckles, then goes up, but Candice ROCKS her back! Candice climbs up, and she fires hands on Tiff! Tiff fights the suplex! Tiff DECKS Candice, then adjusts position, to SANTON- FLOP! Candice ghost pins, TWO!! Tiff escapes, but Candice hits the step-up SENTON! And then a LIONSAUL FLOP! Tiff hurries to fireman’s carry, ROLLING SENTON! And then PRETTIEST MOON- NO, Nia drags Candice out of the ring!
The fans boo, Nia tells them to shut up, but Tiff is on the apron! Nia swings, Tiff cartwheels over, and then she DROPKICKS Nia! Tiff Alabama Lifts Candice, to ALABAMA SLAM her into barriers! Tiff stares down Charlotte, tells her just wait for Mania, then she puts Candice in the ring. Tiff goes to the corner, PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Cover, Tiff wins!
Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall
Charlotte gives moderate applause, but Nia CLOBBERS Tiff from behind! The fans boo, but Nia just drags Tiff to a corner. Nia goes up, but wait! Trish is here!! The fans fire up for the legend as she rushes into the ring! Trish avoids a haymaker to CHICK KICK! Then THESZ PRESS for Candice! And then a SPINEBUSTER! Trish helps Tiff to her feet, but Nia grabs them both! Trish fires fast hands on Nia! Candice CHOP BLOCKS Trish! Tiff is still dazed, Nia HEADBUTTS her back down! Nia & Candice mug Trish, and then Nia HEADBUTTS Trish! Trish & Tiff are side by side, and Nia drags them into the drop zone! A-NIA-LATOR!!
The fans boo but there’s nothing can be done! Nia grins as she helps Candice away, will these two trash Trish & Tiff in Toronto? Charlotte steps into the ring, stands over Tiff, and points to the WrestleMania sign. Will The Irresistible Force & Poison Pixie unwittingly do the dirty work of The Queen of Flair?
Cody talks with Damian Priest backstage.
Priest asks why Cody’s boy, The Rock, is here tonight. Cody says given the time of year, his guess is as good as anyone’s. But tonight will surely be eventful. Cody congratulates Priest on entering the Elimination Chamber. Priest says what’s wild is, last year, they both walked out as champions. What sucks is that this year, only one of them can. Now, Priest is man enough and he respects Cody to say that after Chamber, he’s coming for that title. Cody says he wouldn’t have it any other way. Cody heads out, but what business does The Rock have tonight?
Braun Strowman steps in, and he tells Priest that congrats on winning, and good luck in the Chamber. But let’s be honest, Braun had Jacob dead to rights last week. If not for Solo Sikoa, things would look a lot different next week. Priest chuckles and says take it easy, he’s sounding like Drew with the excuses. But it is what it is, Priest just beat Braun to the punch. But that was last week. Tonight, Solo and Jacob, two of the baddest men in the business. Priest & Braun handling business? Oh, they’re handling business. The only business Braun cares about is getting his hands on those two. Priest says Braun definitely will.
Braun heads out, will the Monster of All Monsters and the Archer of Infamy make sure Solo & Jacob #GetTheseHands? Or will the rogues run roughshod all over SmackDown once again?
Backstage interview with Naomi & Bianca Belair.
Byron Saxton is with the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and brings up last week’s SmackDown, the security footage led us to believe Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez were the ones behind Jade Cargill’s attack. Now, hold on, Saxton. They don’t think, Naomi knows they were. Fair enough. But this Monday, they can get their revenge when they defend the tag titles against Liv & Raquel. How ready are they for this match? Bianca says so ready! They have been waiting for months for an update. Jade has been recovering, she hasn’t been able to call or text, so the GlowEST took matters into their own hands to get revenge.
Bianca & Naomi will handle Liv & Raquel, then move on to Elimination Chamber, where one of them is gonna win to face Rhea at WrestleMania. Not only will you #FeelTheGlowEST on Monday, but Liv feels it tonight! #Let’sGLOW! The champs head out, but will they clear their Road to WrestleMania of any other distractions?
Alexa Bliss speaks.
“When I was away, there was a lot of… change that happened in me. But when I look around, I see this place is still the same. The names and faces may be different, but the desperation and insecurity remains the same. You’ll see Toronto when I turn the Elimination Chamber into something of a playground of my own. I know the Chamber. I love the Chamber. I’ve won the Chamber. And for the other five women, it’s gonna be a Hell like they’ve never experienced before. Need I remind you, this is my division, and I am in charge.” Bliss smiles and says, “See you soon.” The film comes off the reel, but will things get twisted in Toronto?
Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez!
The Big Easy is all about having fun, and they’re fired up for Naomi’s entrance. But wait! Liv & Raquel don’t wait, they attack Bianca & Naomi while the lights are still down! They mug Naomi, but Bianca drags Liv out of the ring! Then Bianca storms in to fire off on Raquel! The fans fire up, but Liv returns to CHOP BLOCK Bianca! Raquel hauls Bianca up for a TEJANA BOMB!! Naomi runs up, fires more hands, but Liv brings Naomi around. Naomi fires hands on her, but Raquel throws her down! Liv runs up, OBLIVION!
Liv & Raquel stand tall, the refs rush out here, but clearly the singles match isn’t happening. Will we be getting something even meaner and nastier between these four on Monday?
The Rock arrives!
His truck pulls into the parking lot, but we’ll see him in the ring, after the break!
SmackDown returns and…
Aldis is chewing out Liv & Raquel for the attack. He doesn’t know what they get away with on Raw, but they can’t pull that crap here. Now get the hell out of his building. Liv & Raquel just laugh that off, but then Chelsea Green & Piper Niven walk in. Chelsea says have no fear, Chelsea & Piper are here to sub in for Bianca and Naomi at Elimination Chamber. Aldis sighs, and says they’re not missing the Chamber. What? But Chelsea had an outfit picked out! This is a travesty to not have the greatest Canadian export since maple syrup on a Canadian PLE! Does he know who she is? The first-ever, longest reigning, tallest, shortest, prettiest, richest, tannest, sparkliest, oldest, youngest Women’s US Champion! Piper asks what this is aboot, eh?
Aldis says this is them testing his patience. They need to pack their gear and whatever else they want, because they’ll be in action next week on SmackDown in Toronto. And oh, it’ll be a good one. Wait, they need more details! At least an e-calendar notification? Aldis is leaving Chelsea in the dark on what’s coming, will she absolutely hate it?
The Rock heads to the ring!
Wait, what is this New Orleans related remix? The Final Boss steps out on stage, he shows those goosebumps, then continues down the ramp, shaking hands with fans. The Rock hits his signature pose on the corner, but then takes the long way around to pick up a fan’s phone for them before going back into the ring. The fans all cheer for “ROCKY! ROCKY!” and he grabs himself a mic. He waits as the fans continue to chant his name, and then he says, “Ahh, you feel it, don’t you? You feel it. The Rock has got chills up and down his body because you know, on a Friday night, for the Final Boss to get inside his bird and fly all the way here, you know that I’m dropping some ish on you tonight!”
The fans fire up and The Rock smiles. Rock says, “Let’s get this show on the road.” The fans anticipate what’s coming but he says hold on, he’ll do it. “FINALLY! The Rock has come back…” “TO NEW ORLEANS~!” Rock smiles, and he adds, FINALLY, WrestleMania is coming back to New Orleans!! The fans are thunderous to hear that! WrestleMania 30, WrestleMania 34, and now WrestleMania 42!? Yes, next year, 2026, LIVE from the Superdome! One of the greatest cities on Earth in New Orleans, Louisiana! The pyro goes off to commemorate the occasion, and the logo is already on the tron! Rock smiles at that, then he smiles at the WrestleMania 41 Vegas logo.
The fans are losing their minds, as we now know April 11th and 12th, 2026, the Big Easy has the Grandest Stage of Them All. Rock says you damn right holy ish! Oh when the saints go marching in…! Oh how I’d love… Wait, no, this ain’t singalong with The Final Boss! Sit there, shut up, and let The Final Boss sing the song! The fans are torn, but Rock says he sings! Oh how I’d love, to be in that number~! Oh when the saints go marching in~! Okay, that’s good enough. You got him, that was a great duet. The Rock is singing with the largest collection of STD’d trailer trash he has ever seen! The fans can’t believe Rock would do that to them!
Rock says now, dropping this news wasn’t the only gift he was going to drop on us. The Final Boss came here to call somebody out. The Rock will call out a man who he respects, who he admires, and who we all admire. That man is our WWE Champion, the one and only, Cody Rhodes. The fans cheer as The American Nightmare makes his entrance! They sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” and we get Cody’s pyro before he goes to the ring. Cody gets his second “WHOA~ OH~!” and round of pyro, then he steps inside to join The Rock. The fans cheer Cody on, so he holds up the title and the fans cheer even more.
Cody grabs a mic, but Rock says, “That feels good, doesn’t it? I mean, that’s gotta feel amazing, right? They love you, man.” Cody tells NOLA, “I love you, too.” Rock says this is crazy. Pretty much no one knows this, but since after WrestleMania last year, they’ve actually become good friends. No, it’s true, they have. Last time they were together was the Raw Netflix debut. Rock gave Cody his flowers, told Cody he has carried the company like the incredible champion that he is, so thank you, Cody. Rock meant it, and that night, they went to the back, drank tequila for two hours and had a great ol’ time.
They chopped it up, had a blast, but Rock wants to call Cody out here for something important. Here’s the thing… The fans get a bit rowdy as they wait, and Rock says Cody is a great champion. A great WWE Champion. Cody knows that. Again, they’ve become good friends, so over the months, they’ve texted. Even their moms became good friends! Look! Mama Johnson & Mama Rhodes together after WrestleMania 40! It is a pleasure becoming Cody’s friend. But Rock wanted this face to face to tell him a few things. One: Cody has been a great champion, but he needs to understand. Yes, The Rock, The Final Boss, is on the Board of TKO. And TKO owns WWE.
The Rock is the Director of the Board of TKO. Don’t boo that! The Rock’s good friend, Ari Emanuel, who owns everything Endeavor, The Rock joked with Ari, “Can you believe that you own The WWE?” Ari says he doesn’t own the WWE, The Rock does. Rock said no, no, he doesn’t know if he owns the WWE. But The Rock knows he is the most powerful… Cody, you are a great champion. But Rock wants Cody to be something more. Rock wants Cody to be something more than just our champion. Rock wants Cody to be his champion. The fans don’t like where that’s going.
Cody says he did not expect them to become friends, nor their moms to become friends, nor the tequila. Cody didn’t have that on his bingo card. But becoming The Rock’s champion? The Rock of all people should know, Cody is the people’s champion. The fans cheer Cody more, and Rock says yes! Cody is their champion! Of course! The Rock is also The People’s Champion, he loves that about Cody. This is their universe, they were both born into this business. But Rock means something even bigger than just this. Rock knows Cody’s goal is to bring as much joy and happiness to everyone around the world, as many as possible.
The fans cheer, and Rock says that’s Cody. Cody is that guy, and everyone knows it. Cody is on social media, Instagram, millions of followers. Millions, and millions! The Rock has half a BILLION. That’s not a flex. But The Rock is the most followed American man in the world, that’s what he wants for Cody. Rock wants Cody to be even higher. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, he will open doors to possibilities Cody never even imagined. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, every dream he has ever had can come true. Every dream of Brandi’s, of their daughter’s. Think about how Rock brought them to the premiere of Moana 2, in Hawaii.
Thank you, by the way, for making that cross a BILLION dollars, fans, Rock loves you. Rock has met the Rhodes family, they’re amazing. But imagine it: Cody’s daughter’s children, their dreams, long after Rock and Cody are gone, all those dreams can come true. Rock just needs Cody to be his champion. The fans say don’t do it! Rock tells Cody to just think about it, though. Rock is a very lucky man, he has it all. Cody also has it all. They’re very fortunate. They’re Mama’s Boys, they’re Girl Dads, they’re lucky men. Fans say don’t do it, Rock tells them to shut up or he’ll slap the syphilis off their face! Rock is trying to have a moment here, shut your mouths!
The one thing that Rock has never had, that he wants more than anything, is a brother. And that is what Cody can be. Last year, WrestleMania, Rock’s goal was to face his cousin, Roman Reigns, for the title. Cody knows, the fans know. Rock talked with his friend, HHH. He talked with Nick Khan, who is his friend. They are also Cody’s friends. Rock knew it wasn’t in the plans, but they talked about moving Cody aside to make what was best for business: Rock VS Roman, WrestleMania 40! What’d Cody do? Cody pitched a b*tch fit! Cody told The Rock he ain’t doing it, and he stood up to The Rock. And y’know what else? Cody SLAPPED Rock!
No one does that and gets away with it. But that is why Cody is special. That is why Cody should be Rock’s Champion. And that is why Rock will take Cody from where he is to a level so far above. Rock will make sure every dream, every desire, for generations to come, it all comes true. Rock’s dad, Cody’s dad, Soul Man & American Dream, they are looking down right now. They were friends, Cody and Rock are friends, Cody should be Rock’s Champion. He doesn’t need to answer Rock tonight. He can think about it, talk with his wife and daughter, as will The Rock. Then Cody can think about it. Meet Rock in Toronto on March 1st to give him the answer.
Fans still say don’t do it, but Rock says it is okay. Before he leaves, this has been an amazing night, this is a hot crowd, thank you all very much. But before he leaves, Rock wants us to know this: The one thing Rock wants more than anything in this world… is that. Wait, the title? Cody’s title? The fans’ title? This is all this is about? No no no no! Brother… Rock doesn’t want the title. He wants Cody’s soul. The fans duel, “NO! NO! NO!” “SELL YOUR SOUL!” Rock pats Cody on the cheek and says see you in Toronto. The Rock leaves, giving Cody a lot to think about. Rock does give one last glance back at Cody, then smirks.
What will The American Nightmare choose: His integrity? Or his aspirations?
WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly!
Did Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano got these titles thanks to Kit Wilson & Elton Prince? #YESBOY! Did they survive a couple title defenses thanks to Kit & Elton? #YESBOY! But when Pretty Deadly needed DIY, was DIY there for them? #NOBOY! So now, Kit & Elton are looking to give Ciampa & Gargano their comeuppance! Will we finally get another #SidePlateCheck? Or will Ciampa & Gargano remember for themselves, that if you wanna be champions, you gotta do it yourself?
But as DIY make their entrance, they have mics, and Johnny Wrestling tells NOLA, “Give it up one time for your TWO-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions…! The BTTITW (Best Tag Team In The World), D I Y~!” The fans boo instead. Ciampa says there is no denying that tonight has been electrifying. Gargano says this is a hot crowd. But please, if we could be somber for a second. Guys, this is serious. Two weeks ago, Pretty Deadly embarrassed DIY, and now reluctantly, DIY will return that favor by crushing their hopes and dreams of ever becoming WWE Tag Team Champions. So please, let us all rise to our feet… Yes, you in the LSU jersey, stand up.
Ciampa thanks Wade Barrett, and asks for everyone to remove their hands and bow their heads for a moment of silence for Pretty Deadly, beginning… now. The fans boo instead! And then Pretty Deadly make their entrance! The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really needed who in this broken relationship!
But then DIY jumps Pretty Deadly! The ref reprimands, DIY whip but Pretty Deadly reverses! DOUBLE DORPKICKS! Then DOUBLE LARIATS send DIY up and out! The disco ball hasn’t even stopped spinning! The fans cheer while DIY throw a fit! They regroup, cool down, and go back to the ring. Gargano distracts Elton, Ciampa CLOBBERS him, and the bell rings. But Elton fires hands on Ciampa! Elton whips, Ciampa reverses and he pulls hair! The ref reprimands, Ciampa throws Elton to the apron and KNEES him down! Tag to Gargano and he aims, SUPERKICK! Elton goes down in a heap, DIY cheers themselves on, and SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns, Gargano tags in, and DIY hits the BACK SUPLEX BOMBO COMBO! Cover, TWO! Elton stays in this but Gargano tags Ciampa back in. Gargano sends Ciampa in, but Elton ELBOWS him away! Gargano runs in, but Elton puts him on the apron! Gargano goes after Kit, but Kit blocks the kick! Kit BOOTS Gargano down, but then Ciampa BOOTS Kit! Elton dodges Ciampa to come back, DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! Elton and Ciampa are down, sputtering and writhing, and the fans rally up. Elton crawls, Kit rises, hot tags to Kit and Gargano! Kit rallies on DIY with big forearms! Kit whips, Gargano reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS!
Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa in a corner, then LARIATS! Kit runs to LARIAT Gargano! Kit pushes Gargano down, kicks him and hits a TWIST- NO, Gargano slips through to ROCK Kit! Kit yoyos, DOUBLE LARIATS! The fans fire up, Kit tags Elton! They get Gargano up, but Gargano BOOTS Elton! Gargano ELBOWS Kit away, then runs up on Elton! Elton dodges, then gives Kit the boost, DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Gargano survives but Ciampa is in! Elton fireman’s carries Ciampa, but Ciampa slips free! Ciampa whips, Elton reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa! Elton shows off his strength with the GOTCH LIFT PLEX!
Tag to Kit, but IN COME THE PROFITS! Ford SHOVES Kit down, Dawkins mugs him!!
Winners: Pretty Deadly, by disqualification; DIY retain the titles
Not again! Just like they did Motor City Machine Guns, The Profits make sure no one else takes these titles off DIY! URENAGE from Ford to Elton! Dawkins keeps hammering away on Kit, and then Ford POSTS Elton! Dawkins fireman’s carries Kit, to POST him, too! Looking like the All Mighty with that one! Gargano fires forearms in return, but ends up int he POUNCE GERMAN SUPLEX! Then Ciampa runs up into a FLAPJACK! Ford goes up top, then flies in FROM THE HEAVENS!! Direct hit on Ciampa! But wait! MCMG rushes out here, wanting their payback! The Profits brawl with MCMG, but Ford TOSSES Shelley to the apron!
Ford runs up, Shelley goes to kick, but Ford blocks it! Ford LARIATS Shelley down, Dawkins hits Sabin with THE BIG ENDING! The fans are torn as Dawkins whips Sabin, Profits get him for the REVELATION!! And if there’s been any revelation, it is that Ford & Dawkins don’t just want the smoke, they want to burn down the tag division to get it! Will nothing stop them once they’re back in action?
Kevin Owens speaks.
“You got what you wanted, huh? You got your match. You couldn’t, uh… You couldn’t just take the punishment that you deserved, that I’d already given you, and let it go. No, you… You wanted me and you to go again. You wanted to fight me, you want to hurt me, you want to end my career, which would hurt my family, by the way. Which is truly despicable. But what about your family, Sami? Huh? Have you thought of them? What about your family, huh?” Kevin reveals he is right outside the Zayn home! Kevin peers inside to watch Sami, his wife, and his son!
Kevin asks Sami via the video if Sami knows what he’s about to put them through, when they have to watch Kevin end Sami’s career. And what happens then, eh? When Sami can’t provide for them, and everything they have, like this nice house, the shelter, the security, the peace they have, when it’s all gone? And why? What for? Because Sami’s too proud? Because Sami’s selfish? Sami IS selfish. Because Sami is making Kevin do this to Sami’s family. Kevin will never forgive Sami for that. He’ll see Sami in Toronto. “But remember… You asked for this. It’s all your fault.” As if Kevin’s delusions aren’t already grand, will he continue to blame everyone else but himself?
Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga!
Elimination Chamber is on the horizon, and the Road to WrestleMania makes for strange bedfellows. Priest, Braun and Jacob were fighting each other just last week, but Solo’s return really threw things for a loop. Can Priest & Braun give Solo and the Samoan Werewolf their punishment? Or will everything (not) be fine in Solo’s Bloodline?
SmackDown returns as #OneBigSOB makes his entrance. As Solo, Jacob & Tama head to gorilla, we hear from Solo. “Tonight, we handle business. And it starts with Braun Strowman & Damian-” Jacob interrupts with, “Man, c’mon, DP! C’mon, Braun! I thought we did this! So tonight, we about to even up the score. If you ain’t know, I’m all gas, no brakes with it! See, since we touched the scene, we been dropping bodies like bread crumbs! Yadada mean!? FA-TUUU~! Hit my music!” The rogues enter to Jacob’s theme, is this alone proof he’s the new alpha? Or will the match be the last nail in that coffin?
The teams sort out, but Jacob stares down both Priest and Braun. NOLA seems to acknowledge Jacob, but Solo convinces him to stand down. Solo starts against Priest, the bell rings, and the two tie up. They go around, Priest powers Solo back, but Solo powers Priest back. They break, stare down, and Solo talks some trash. Solo shoves Priest, Priest shoves back. They circle again, tie up, and Priest puts Solo in a corner. The ref counts, Priest lets off at 4, but Solo stomps Priest’s foot! Solo throws hands, then a HEADBUTT! Priest staggers, but then he ROCKS Solo! And ROCKS him! And HEADBUTTS! That was a mistake!
Solo shakes his head to HEADBUTT Priest! Priest goes to a corner, Solo throws haymakers and body shots on repeat! The ref counts, Solo lets off and says see? Solo and Jacob as one! But Priest THROWS Solo to the corner to fire off haymakers of his own! Priest ROCKS Solo, the fans fire up, and Priest whips., Solo reverses to UPPERCUT! Solo talks smack but Priest ROCKS him again! Tag to Braun and the fans fire up! Braun stares Jacob down, tells him to shove it, then runs up to SPLASH Solo! Braun stares Jacob down again, goes back for Solo, and hits another LARIAT! Braun scoops, Solo slips free, but Braun runs up!
Solo ELBOWS Braun away, tags to Jacob, and Jacob runs in, but Braun dodges! Braun CROSSBODIES! Jacob is right up, but Braun BOOTS him right back down! Solo runs in but Braun TOSSES him! Priest hurries after Solo, Braun CLOBBERS Jacob! LEAPING LARIAT for Solo! Braun then gets on the track, STROWMAN EXPRESS SMACKS a chair out of Tama’s hand! The Good Bad Guy thought he was being sneaky! But then Jacob CROSSBODIES Braun into the timekeeper’s aera! The fans go wild as Jacob rises up, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Jacob hauls Braun up, drags him around the way, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him over to SMACK off the desk! Braun staggers, but he ROCKS Jacob in return! And THROWS Jacob into steel steps! Braun drags Jacob up, puts him in the ring, but Jacob SUPERKICKS Braun! Braun falls into the corner, Jacob HIP ATTACKS! Jacob’s all geeked up, then he tags in Solo. Solo soaks up some heat while Jacob HIP ATTACKS Braun again! Solo puts Braun on ropes to CHOKE him! The ref counts, Solo stops at 4, but Jacob gets a HEADBUTT in! Braun flounders, Solo taunts him and eggs him on, but Braun CHOPS him!
Solo HEADBUTTS Braun right down! Solo rains down fists, then lets off so he can put Braun on the ropes. Solo CHOKES Braun again, stops as the ref counts 4, and Jacob gets another cheap shot in! Solo tags Jacob in, then he HEADBUTTS Braun again and again! Jacob runs to BODY CHECK Braun! Jacob fires up, Braun flounders to ropes, but Jacob rains down fists! Tag to Solo, he soaks up heat from NOLA, then he stomps away on Braun! The ref counts, Solo lets off, then he keeps Braun from Priest by anchoring a leg. Tag to Jacob and Jacob climbs up, FROG SPLASH! Jacob roars while Braun writhes!
Jacob looms over Braun but he glares at Priest. Priest gets heated, but Jacob fires hands on Braun as SmackDown returns to single picture. Braun stands, but Jacob HEADBUTTS him again! Jacob runs for another BODY CHECK! And then a SENTON! Cover, TWO! Braun stays in this and he goes to a corner. Jacob snarls, tags Solo in, and the fans boo. Solo runs corner to corner to HIP ATTACK Braun! Solo grins as he copies Jacob’s geeking out. Tag back to Jacob and fans cheer! Jacob aims, runs, and HIP ATTACKS! Jacob keeps going, but Braun BOOTS from below!! The fans fire up while both men stagger to their feet.
Braun SPINEBUSTERS Jacob! Both monsters are down, the fans rally up, and they crawl, hot tags to Solo and Priest! Priest fires hands on Solo, then whips. Solo reverses but Priest SHOUDLER TACKLES Solo! Priest runs to BACK ELBOW! Jacob is back, but Priest dodges to WHEEL KICK! Priest then waits on Solo, but Solo catches Priest! Priest elbows free, but Solo SUPERKICKS! But Priest JUMPING ROUNDHOUSES! Solo comes back, Priest ROCKS him first! Solo swings, but into the FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Solo survives but Priest puts him in a corner. Priest whips corner to corner, then runs, only for Solo to put him on th eapron!
Solo takes as swing, Priest dodges and ROUNDHOUSES! Priest then knuckle locks with Solo, goes up top, and he tightrope walks for some OLD SCHOOL! The fans fire up and Priest powers up the arm! Priest runs, but Solo ducks the Comebacker! Priest fights the fireman’s carry to BELL CLAP, ROUNDHOUSE, and then he reels Solo in! But Tama is on the apron! Priest DECKS Tama, but Jacob HOTSHOTS Priest! Solo hits the URENAGE! Cover, TWO!! Priest survives and Solo is stunned! Solo snarls, looks to his taped-up thumb, then he drags Priest up. The fans boo but Solo taunts the fans now. SAMOAN- NO! Priest grabs Solo!
But Jacob runs in! Priest ROCKS Jacob, ELBOWS Solo, then he dodges, so Jacob’s SUPERKICK hits Solo! An accident just like last week’s shot to Tama, but Jacob doesn’t seem as upset by it. Priest TOSSES Jacob, then CLOBBERS Solo! STROWMAN EXPRESS CLOBBERS Jacob & Tama!! Priest brings down the straps, the fans are thunderous, and Priest grabs Solo by the neck! SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, Priest & Braun win!
Winners: Damian Priest & Braun Strowman, by pinfall
Just as Solo thought it’d be like before, he and Jacob were not on the same page! Priest is rolling towards Elimination Chamber, will this be just what he needs to go back to WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
A great SmackDown here, but with some interesting moves after the sudden change in plans with The Rock showing up. Naomi and Bianca had a good promo to hype up what was meant to be a full match of Naomi VS Liv, but word had already come out before the show that things were being cut for time. But at the very least, they did the right thing of making it a brawl that adds heat to the tag title match on Monday. Also, hilarious how Chelsea & Piper thought the beatdown on Bianca & Naomi was so bad that they would need to be pulled from the Chamber. I also can’t wait to see what happens on Toronto SmackDown.
As for The Rock, I do appreciate he used his authority to kayfabe change more things, all so he could have his promo with Cody. I also appreciate Rock blending his different roles and even different sides, both Heel and Face, to A) bring the news of WM42 being in NOLA, and B) recreate the Corporate Champion/People’s Champion story from the Attitude Era. That was some wild stuff he was saying to Cody. I’m sure quite a few people will try and talk with Cody next week in the go-home. Heels will say do it because they’d love to have what Rock can give, Faces will say not because Cody’s better than that. But naturally, Cody is not going to become The Rock’s Champion, causing Rock to turn on him and really up things going into WrestleMania 41 and perhaps even beyond.
Good stuff in the Elimination Chamber related stories. Jimmy VS McIntyre was great stuff to open, and how fitting that McIntyre loses to Jimmy after talking all that trash about Jimmy and Jey being the same. Jey got McIntyre with something quick, Jimmy got McIntyre with something quick, McIntyre’s ego is obviously his weakness. And at the same time, McIntyre of course destroys Jimmy after because that’s his other personality trait. Priest had good promos with Cody and Braun, and we got great stuff from Solo’s Bloodline. Naturally, we got a miscommunication spot to help finish, we’re really close to Solo VS Jacob, I can feel it. Priest & Braun get the win, mostly because Priest isn’t winning in the Chamber when you’ve got Punk and Cena in there.
Very good stuff with Tiffy Time, from the promos leading into the match to Charlotte being ringside just to watch. Nia & Candice of course get the better of Tiff & Trish, because Tiff & Trish are definitely winning the tag match in Toronto. Charlotte just seems to enjoy trolling Tiff with her presence, so Charlotte probably shows up in Toronto to then confront Tiff after the match. I expect the seven weeks after Elimination Chamber to really heat up, as will Charlotte’s involvement, where she’ll get more active verbally and physically. Also, hell, Rock should go full Corporation and have Charlotte be his Corporate Women’s Champion because of how established she is.
Hilarious stuff from Truth tonight, as always. Truth and Melo having their “who’s on first” again was good stuff, and of course Miz gets in on this story, too. Truth & Knight VS “Melo Don’t Miz” was really fun, but yeah, should’ve figured Nakamura would get involved, too. Melo & Miz making it work could also be really fun, and while Knight VS Nakamura is a rehash, I really hope they find a way to up things. It feels like we’re getting the same with the tag titles as Profits “ruined” that great tag match from DIY and Pretty Deadly, then brawled with MCMG to still come out on top. Last year had a ladder tag title match, so why not do one for these titles this year?
Speaking of escalating, Kevin filming a promo outside Sami’s house was some really well done stuff, as expected of someone as good as Kevin and in such a story as him and Sami. Their match should main event, it needs time to breathe, as it could be just as, if not more violent, than the Chamber matches. What a powerful closing moment we could have if it’s a bloody Kevin and Sami, and one of them is standing over the other, triumphant yet mournful because it was their best friend in the world that they just brutalized.
My Score: 8.9/10
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA LIVE! iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 2.20.2025
So the first live episode got fairly positive praise from everyone; will this continue the trend?
Filming at Full Sail seems to have set the stage nicely this week! Going into a Live episode we got Moose and The Hardy Boyz on NXT, as well as Jordynne Grace’s involvement with Steph and Giulia giving a little shine to TNA happenings since she’s newly WWE.
This episode should be interesting, we finally see Lei Ying Lee (fka Xia Li) back in action, Rascalz take on Tyson and Tyriek, Tessa should be seeing some action as well…so generally interesting happenings for the second Live iMPACT! of 2025. Let’s see how this one goes down!
No matter where @ManceWarner and @stephdelander go, @TheSamiCallihan WILL FIND THEM!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/mXz9U7m9PL
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Ratings:
- Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin: Rascalz win via Meteora/Swanton Combo – ***
- Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary: Lei wins via Thunderstruck – **
- NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC: Dango wins via The System help – ** 3/4
- Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore: Masha wins via Requiem – N/A
- Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons: Elijah wins via Tombstone Piledriver – *** 1/4
Results:
Oh yeah, and another Hendry concert is…cut off by a commercial, LOLTNA. First Hendry is cut off by AXSTV’s new Anime Hour bumper, and now Primo and Epico are showing up in TNA. I definitely didn’t have this on my BINGO card. The crowd starts chanting “Where’s Carlito”, which they do acknowledge and play off of well. Oh they’re using their shoot names of Orlando and Eddie now…but before they attack the lights go out and we get another guitar strum! ELIAH/ELIAS/EZEKIEL/EBENERZER/EMERY/EL VAGABUNDO – shows up to back up Hendry. Okay I can apologize away the redundant concert since it played into an Elijah debut. The crowd is immediately popping and chanting “This is Awesome” 10 minutes into the show.
Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin
Treehouse bros take it to the bigger men quickly, a few fast dives, a little MCMG style tandem strikes, Tyson fires and tries to take them out but they Low Bridge him. Tyriek comes in and they try similar things but Tyriek manhandles them both and throws them out of the ring, Trey is the first one back up and Tyriek and Tyson take his damn head off with his Corkscrew Running Euro Upper. Trey finally manages to flip out of the manhandle, tags in Wentz and Wentz goes for the hot and spicy cleaning house spot. Corner to Corner Knee Lifts for both big men, a Rolling Snapmare, into a Superkick for Tyson and Standing Shoot Star on Tyriek but only for two because Wes feints like he’s going to interfere.
Tyson and Tyriek pull off a tandem Assisted Backdrop Driver, but Wentz breaks it up, Tyson gets knocked out, Wentz hits the Tornillo, Wes tries to interfere again after Trey gets perched on the corner buckle but Ace runs around and trips Wes at the last second causing him to faceplant on the apron, Trey hits the Meteora, Wentz hits a Swanton from the other side of the ring and Trey gets the pinfall victory.
It was fast paced, all gas no brakes, but it didn’t overstay its welcome, so it was pretty fun all things considered.
After the match Wes grabs a mic, complains a little but challenges them to a 6 man match as Sacrifice. So we’re THAT’S where we’re getting the expected 3v3.
Fir$t Cla$$ comes out with an entourage of hot chicks and probably influencers or something. The “First Class Penthouse” , Gabby AF, Mafiosa Valentina, and Carolina are apparently known in their own way. Gabby I know was the awful one who did something for Impact a last year and sucked, but she’s part of the Busted Open Network I believe so that’s why she’s around. Two of them look like Noelle Foley and Frank the Clown…oh they actually are. Look at that. I do love KC Navarro as the Hype Man, they have this whole set up of AJ being mad that they haven’t gotten more Tag Title shots, so TNA placated him with his own Piper’s Pit and he’s *pregnant pause* totally happy with that. He says he loved Piper and hated Hogan before it was cool.
This is actually quality content and AJ is cutting a nice promo in this segment. They introduce their first guest, the greatest performer in TNA history, many whole say he’s Phenomenal with a whole lot of style….it’s A-J-Francis.
.@AJFrancis410 is GOING OFF!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/kGehtp9iTE
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary
Things were slow until Rosemary took her into a corner quickly, hit the Upside Down, and we get a lot of Lei trying to avoid Rosemary’s offense. Rosemary goes for a Spear in the corner and Lei forward rolls, starts connecting with a bunch of right hands, backs Rosemary into the corner, goes for 10 Count Punches, pulls her out, Airplane Spin TKO for only a two count. Rosemary tries As Above So Below, Lei shrugs it off, Rosemary tries to go after Lei anyway and eats Thunderstruck! Lei Ying Lee wins!
After the match Rosemary catches Lei on the ramp and hits the Green mist in the eyes. Match was far too short and so many of Lei’s set up moves look better than her finish. We’ve seen Kofi Kingston do it for years so it’s not bad, just the current Knockouts Division are awful and don’t take the move well.
Eric Young and the jabronis come out, EY cuts a very basic power crazed psycho kind of promo, gets the “What” chants from the crowds. EY is trying to recruit Maclin even though Maclin made his line in the sand last week. EY tries to spin it as maybe he took out Josh FOR Maclin instead of in spite of his trust. This really doesn’t seem interesting at all, but that’s probably because I hate the two Jabronis EY is with.
NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC
I really don’t have any interest in Slater. He’s got no personality beyond “flippy guy with a British accent”.
Dango immediately powders, grabs a chair and goes to swing on him but misses. So Leon is making JDC look dumb by dodging the post chop, using the chair to shield himself from a punch by JDC, and then clapping Dango’s fingers between the chair. So typical System match, look inept for the first few minutes, then take advantage of something to take over. Oh look, Leon takes too long setting up the table, Dango gets in a few pot shots, tries to whip him into the table but Leon leaps over it, and then leaps back over to clobber Dango. Dango is still trying to recover so Leon hits his over the corner post con hilo, and the crowd appreciates it but I’m not interested. Leon panders to the crowd after the big spot and then eats an X-Plex into the chair from Dango.
JDC throws Leon back in, goes for a pinfall that’s only a two and we cut to a commercial. Coming out of the commercial JDC is in control with a Kendo Stick until he isn’t, Leon counters and takes the keno stick, brutalizes Dango a few times then comes off the ropes with the kendo shot for 2. Leon goes for another table, and again, at least the crowd is receptive to this match. Leon sets it up, looks for something off the apron but Dango stops him first until he eats a dropkick to fall onto the table, Leon hits the Swanton 450 through the table on the outside. Does it look cool? Sure. Do I care about dumbass moves? Nope.
Oh thankfully the rest of The System comes out to stop the pinfall, Shield Bomb Leon through the first table, and roll him back in for Dango to win.
The Hardy Boyz come out to try and make the save, but the numbers are against them, so Oba Femi’s music hits! Oba cleans house but doesn’t get his hands on Moose, so they’re at least building the eventual clash between Moose and Oba.
The crowd starts a “Tessa, we comin for you” chant before she even starts talking. Tessa is actually playing off the crowd well, Santino’s music hits and Tessa thinks he’ll help her out with the crowd and Santino calls bullshit basically. Santino says if Tessa doesn’t wrestle next week, she’s fired and Masha’s music hits. Masha decides to step in for Tessa’s enhancement talent match.
Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore
Jobber tries to attack Masha early but Masha stops her, rocks her and Requiem ends the match.
Masha stares down Tessa, and then Cora Jade attacks from behind and hits Jaded.
Ryan Nemeth comes out to his Abyss music remix. What will Mokuba say today? “MYYYY BIIIGG BBRROOOOTTHHHEEEEER” he repeats at least 4 times and it’s hilariously cringe. He announces that Nic will return at Sacrifice, he literally just came out to give a PSA.
Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons
Hendry starts with Eddie, after a brief tie up it seems like Hendry reads the room and points at Elijah and the crowd wants him in. So Joe tags in Elijah, a little back and forth, Shoulder Tackle from Elijah, Rope Walk with Elijah lays out Eddie and a tag to Joe allows for a quick tandem knockdown, but Eddie powders as the Walking and Talking Duo hold the ring going into the final commercial break.
We come back and Hendry is bouncing Orlando off the ropes as he return a strike, but Orlando is obviously losing, eats a Euro Upper, and then gets walked around in the Stalling Suplex for posterity. Eddie tries a sneak attack but gets caught and Sack of Shit, into Kip Up, turn and then Orlando with the ambush! A few quick short cuts and an Irish Whip/Dropkick combo gives the Colons a near fall. Hendry does get locomotion variation cradles, but eats a Dropkick to stop the attempt at momentum. Orlando stays on Joe, but Joe finally starts to fire up as the crowd starts to get behind him. Euro Uppers make some space, but a Snapmare says no.
Eddie gets tagged in and a quick Leg Sweep into a Front Chancery keeps Eddie in control. As Joe tries to get back up, Eddie turns it into a Guillotine, but finally the Suplex counter connects for Hendry! Simultaneous tags! Elijah bulls over Orlando, catches a Leap Frogging Orlando with the Manhattan Drop as Orlando retreats to a corner, Stinger Splash into Spinebuster for two. Elijah tries to keep up the attacks but Orlando finds a few ways to make space, launches himself from the middle rope and eats the Jumping Knee! Eddie breaks up the pinfall, Hendry takes Eddie out and Elijah hits the Tombstone Piledriver for the win!
Overall Score: 6/10
Well there were more live hiccups than the first episode, and this felt both more epic and less epic at the same time. Elijah and the Colons debuting was a nice way to kick things off, Oba Femi showing up for the save was fantastic. There were a few decent matches, but also a lot of really short and rushed matches. Tessa played off the crowd well, but Masha really is useless on the mic. Lei Ying Lee needs to framed stronger, her matches have done nothing to show off her ability. It just proves that the Knockouts don’t know how to sell a kick to the head because they all take it in the shoulder and fall in corny ways.
Viva La Sam could be something fun if the next 3 weeks are just hand cam footage of him being like “I’m Sami Callihan and I’m gonna kick Mance Warner’s ass”, Elegance Clique getting the rematch with a stipulation is nice to see and while I like Fir$t Cla$$, that segment went a little long for a cornball swerve payoff. It’s one thing to placate the Influencer squad especially when we’ve seen Logan Paul and Ishowspeed do so well in WWE…but these are like Z Tier Influencers that no one cares about. These kind of dorks stream on Kick because they aren’t relevant enough for Twitch, not because they chose Kick over it.
So yeah, the low lights were pretty low, and the highs were a little fleeting, but at least they were pretty fun. Not a bad show, just clunky with noticeable issues and Masha shouldn’t be allowed to speak English anymore. She’s such a charisma vacuum when she’s not rambling in Russian.
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