Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (9/4/20)
The Big Dog is the top dog!
SmackDown has a NEW WWE Universal Champion!
He may not be Brock Lesnar, but Roman Reigns IS the reigning, defending, undisputed WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion once again! And he will know who his Clash of Champions opponent is by the end of the night!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Heavy Machinery VS The Miz & John Morrison; Heavy Machinery wins.
- WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Shayna Baszler & Nia Jax VS Bayley & Sasha Banks; Baszler & Jax win and retain the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships.
- WWE Universal Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Matt Riddle VS Baron Corbin VS Sheamus VS
Big EJey Uso; Uso wins and will challenge Roman Reigns for the title at Clash of Champions.
PLAY BY PLAY
SmackDown opens with Roman Reigns!
The Big Dog and his new Advocate, Paul Heyman, make their way on stage, the Universal Championship held high over Roman’s head. Fans are divided between cheers and jeers as Roman and Heyman head to the ring. Heyman grabs a mic and says, “Just when you thought I was out, he pulled me back in.” And don’t make fools of yourselves pointing accusatory fingers thinking Heyman corrupted Roman. It is Roman “corrupting” Heyman. And why? Why would Heyman and Roman work together when Heyman was “thrown into the shark-infested ocean of obscurity, only to be rescued, saved and pulled onto the island of relevancy by this man?” The reason is that they did the same thing to Roman!
Heyman asks us, “What happened to the ‘thank yous’ and the appreciation?” The selfish executive decisions, the life threatening illnesses, and yet Roman over delivered. No one offered a thank you or appreciation. When he needed even just a little time off, what happened to Roman’s title? The Fiend? A fiend is not born to be champion, a fiend does fiendish things. A monster? A monster is not born to be champion, a monster does monstrous things. Imagine looking to a Fox News asking one of those two, “What’s it like being the biggest star in the WWE?” “Grrr!” Yeah, great choice. Those aren’t champions. “Roman’s reign as your champion has always been defined by what WWE purports itself to be built upon: Family, tradition, legacy, the responsibility of being a champion and the accountability of owning one’s actions as champion.”
Meanwhile, on Raw, they have a big Triple Threat to determine a challenger at Clash of Champions. Everything about Roman will be bigger, badder, better and more sensational and spectacular than anyone before him. Raw has a Triple Threat, so SmackDown will have a Fatal 4 Way! And the winner will be “the sacrificial lamb” to Roman at Clash. The names don’t deserve to be said by Roman or Heyman, the resumes will be ready by WWE’s Anderson Cooper, and “Carmella’s latest boyfriend” on commentary. “It goes like this. I’m gonna tell you this one time so you get it through your thick, unappreciative skulls.” Heyman gives a very slow and intense version to his introduction, as he is now the counsel to the Tribal Chief, the razing, defending, undisputed Universal Heavyweight Champion, Roman. Reigns!
Roman says he is a man of his word. He did what he said he would: he signed the contract, wrecked Fiend and Monster, and then left as THE WWE Universal Champion! And he promises that it doesn’t matter who goes to Clash, “feed ’em in and watch ’em all get slaughtered, because this is MY island! And when you have this kind of power, all you gotta do… Is show up and win.” A new catchphrase for a new Roman. Who will make it to the biggest fight yet?
SmackDown returns to Jey Uso finding Roman and Heyman backstage.
“Yessir!” Welcome back, NEW Universal Champion! The family’s so proud, but he hasn’t responded to their texts and calls. Heyman walks off so family can talk private. What’s the deal with having Paul E? After everything with him and Lesnar? Roman says he has it under control. Well alright. If Roman needs someone to watch is back, Jey is there. Sure thing. Roman has to go, though, so hit him up later. Jey says they should get a steak after. Just what is going on in side Roman’s head?
Heavy Machinery VS The Miz & John Morrison!
Otis and Tucker still have a lot of beef with the Greatest Tag Team of the 21st Century *look off into distance*, but only ONE can challenge the Swiss Cyborg and King of Strong Style! Who wins to make a major case towards that title match at Clash of Champions?
SmackDown returns as the Hollywood A-Lister and Guru of Greatness make their entrances. The teams sort out and Otis starts with Miz. They circle, Miz gets a waistlock but Otis standing switches to slam Miz down! Then he picks Miz up to slam him again! Otis has Miz on the ropes but Miz elbows back! Miz throws haymakers and chops, but runs into Otis’ shoulder! Otis tags Tucker, they whip Miz and double shoulder tackle him down! Cover, TWO! Tucker keeps on Miz but Miz jawbreakers back! Tag to Morrison but Morrison runs into a takedown by Tucky! Tucker has Morrison in a waistlock, rolls him around then brings him up to whip for a BIG hip toss!
Tucker has Morrison in the corner, for a splash! Otis tags in, whips Tucker in for another splash, then Morrison is fed to a BIG shoulder tackle! Otis is fired up as Morrison flounders to a corner. Otis brings Morrison up, rams his shoulder in then whips corner to corner. Morrison comes back and Otis back drops him! Miz runs in, Otis dodges, Tucker scoops him! Otis scoops Morrison, they ram Miz and Morrison together, then double SLAM! Miz and Morrison get clothesline’d out and Heavy Machinery stands tall as SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns and the tables have turned as Miz has Tucker in the corner. Miz starts up the “Hey hey! Ho ho!” but Morrison is really the only one responding. Miz tags Morrison but Tucker fights back! Tucker throws haymakers on Miz but Morrison clobbers him from behind! Miz and Morrison double whip but Tucker leaps over both of them! Tag to Otis! The Dozer bulldozes through Miz and Morrison and back again! Otis has Morrison with a whip and a pop-up flapjack! Otis runs in,Miz pushes Morrison out of the way! FLYING CHUCK CHOP BLOCK! Miz fish hooks Otis’ face, tags Morrison back in, and then Morrison runs to SHINING WIZARD! Miz runs to BOOT! Morrison covers, TWO!
Morrison keeps on Otis with big hands and elbows. Otis hits back but Miz tags in. Miz and Morrison whip Otis to a corner. Morrison whips Miz but Otis dodges! Otis throws Morrison out as Miz hits buckles, then Otis back elbows Miz. Morrison drags Tucker off the apron for a MOONLIGHT DRIVE! “Now what?!” Otis turn around into It Kicks, but they just power Otis up! Otis jiggles and gyrates, then he blocks a kick to scoop Miz for an EXPLODER! Morrison gets in, he gets an EXPLODER! Greatest Sandwich of the 21st Century in the corner! Otis has his target and fires up with the fans, for a CATERPILLAR ELBOW! Otis then goes up top for a VADER BOMB!! Cover, Heavy Machinery wins!
Winners: Heavy Machinery, by pinfall
A huge win over a top tag team, but Morrison STEALS the Money in the Bank contract! That doesn’t make him Mr. MITB, but it does make him a thorn in Otis’ side! Will Otis be able to take back his prize from the Friday Night Delight?
Happy Birthday, but for who?
Big E talks with Drew Gulak, and tells Lucha House Party to be careful. This is a very small, rather sad cake since it doesn’t even have the person’s name on it. But Big E says this is big. Not only is Xavier Woods BACK to host Talking Smack later tonight, it is also his BIRTHDAY! But cakes and balloons aside, it is big for Big E. If, no WHEN, Big E wins tonight, he cashes in a golden ticket for a title match with Roman Reigns! It’s going down, baby! Security comes over and says Woods has arrived. Alright, here we go! Big E brings the cake to the parking lot, but SHEAMUS attacks! Was it just a trap?! These two brawl, the cake is ruined, and Big E gets a BROGUE against the garage door!!
Sheamus pretends to be upset over not being invited to the party, and he bounces Big E’s head off the hood of a Hyundai! Sheamus drags Big E up, but security and refs tell Sheamus to stop! He doesn’t listen, WHITE NOISEÂ to the front windshield!! The Celtic Warrior just crushed Big E’s body, but has he crushed Big E’s spirit? Or will Big E still make it to that Fatal 4 Way to exact revenge AND achieve a dream?
SmackDown returns with medics checking on Big E.
He hasn’t moved since the commercial break and the medics are very careful with him. A stretcher has been brought given the major lacerations and possible internal damage. Sheamus returns to the scene of the crime to say it is difficult to watch, but he can’t take his eyes off this. Did he set Big E up just for losing at Payback? What? Sheamus was doing what any man would do and defended himself. Big E probably did think Woods was here, but maybe it was some misinformation. If you want to be in the main event, to grab the brass ring, then you need to stay focused. Sheamus is already thinking about Riddle’s strikes and Corbin’s power game. Big E was thinking about laughing and dancing with his buddy.
To be honest, it’s sad. This could’ve been the biggest night in Big E’s career, and he lets his friends drag him down again. But y’know what they say? You can’t dwell on the past! Sheamus has a big fight in that Fatal 4 Way for the Clash of Champions match, so he’s gotta go. Well actually, it’s probably just a Triple Threat now. Will the Fella face the consequences before the end of the night?
Backstage interview with Sasha Banks and Bayley!
It has been a tumultuous time for them. Payback saw them lose the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships after Sasha lost the Raw Women’s Championship. What’s her point? Well, tonight is a rematch for those titles before Clash of Champions. How do they feel about their chances? Bayley says that Shayna Baszler and Nia Jax were a brand new team, no one knew what to expect. But now Bayley and Sasha have it all set. They’re getting their own payback and taking those titles back! But Shayna has tapped Bayley out the last three times they’ve been in the same ring together. Do they have-
Who the hell do you think you are?! You are talking to the greatest SmackDown Women’s Champion of all time, the Women’s Grand Slam Winner! That is why Bayley is a role model to millions, and is Sasha’s best friend! No matter what, they’ve changed the game together, and are going to do it again. They’re going to show everyone why they run the whole damn company! That Payback payback happens after the break!
SmackDown returns to Adam Pearce and a medical update on Big E.
Big E is being evaluated, so the extent of his injuries are unknown, but it means he is NOT cleared for tonight’s main event. The Fatal 4 Way will still be a Fatal 4 Way, but with a new fourth man. And it’s at this moment that Heyman appears and wants to talk with Pearce. Will Heyman give his input on who should, or shouldn’t, be in the Fatal 4 Way to determine Roman’s challenger?
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Shayna Baszler & Nia Jax VS Bayley & Sasha Banks!
The Queen of Spades and the Irresistible Force did the impossible at Payback: they got along! But they also managed to do that and take the titles from the Golden Role Models. Will they do it again to deny the return of #BayleyDosStraps?
Cesaro and Nakamura give comments on this match up. Two mac trucks and two sports cars, what happens when they collide? BOOM! CRASH! That’s not nice, given what we just saw with Big E. Pff like they care. But win or lose, Bayley and Banks will always have a place at the Champion’s Lounge. The introductions for this match are made, the Women’s Tag Titles are raised, and Payback’s payback begins!
Shayna starts with Bayley but then Nia tags in quick. They argue, Sasha tags in and the role models attack! They send Shayna and Nia out, then double baseball slide, into double swings into the barriers! Shayna and Nia are unified in swinging and slamming Sasha and Bayley around, and then let them down as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Shayna gut wrenches Bayley to a cover, TWO! Shayna keeps on Bayley and brings her over, tag to Nia. Nia runs in to corner splash, then Shayna adds a KNEE! Nia covers, TWO! Nia drags Bayley up, Bayley hits back with body shots, but Nia scoops and gut busters! Cover, TWO! Nia drags Bayley back up, and TOSSES her to a corner! Nia hits a hip attack! Then another! Sasha tries to save Bayley but too late, Nia brings Bayley into a cobra clutch. Nia leans on Bayley, thrashes her about, then leans on her more. Bayley endures, fights up and fights back with elbows. Nia whips Bayley hard into buckles! Nia drags Bayley to a cover, TWO!
Nia taunts Ssaha as she clubs Bayley. Bayley hits back, pulls hair, but is powered to the corner! Nia brings Bayley out to shove her back in, then tags in Shayna. Shayna hits another KNEE! Shayna half hatch rolls Bayley, and goes after the arm! Bayley flails as she endures the hammerlock. Shayna twists the wrist, clubs the shoulder then SNAPS it back! The ref checks on Bayley and keeps Shayna back. Bayley gets to the rope, Sasha wants to check on her friend but she has to stay at the corner. Shayna sees Bayley sit up on the apron, and Bayley kicks back. Shayna kicks, drags Bayley by a leg and tags in Nia. Nia SMASHES the knee!
Nia drags Bayley up, scoops Bayley but Bayley fights. Sasha gets in, Bayley gets away and Bayley chop blocks a leg! Tag to Sasha and Sasha stomps and hammers away on Nia! Nia gets up, shoves Sasha and scoops her, but Sasha tilt-o-whirls and sends Nia to a corner. Sasha runs in, is put on the apron but knees and KICKS and KICKS Nia back! Sasha climbs up and swings around, METEORA! Then side to side METEORA! Sasha goes up top, FLYING METEORA!! Cover, TWO!! Nia still has power to launch Sasha off her, but Sasha comes back with a sleeper hold. Nia pops Sasha off her back to a fireman’s carry, but Sasha gets to the apron.
Shayna tags in, Sasha kicks her away. Sasha dumps Nia out and KNEES her back. Sasha runs, Bayley tags, Sasha slides under Nia! Bayley hotshots Nia into the POWERBOMB!! But Shayna grabs Bayley, only for Bayley to back suplex her away! Bayley tags Sasha back in, SHINING WIZARD! Cover, TWO!! Shayna survives and shocks Sasha! Sasha grits her teeth as she gets back to her feet. Sasha drags Shayna up, talks trash, then bumps her off buckles. Sasha stomps away, Bayley tags in and she adds stomps! Sasha tags in, she stomps away! The ref counts, Sasha lets up at 4, and comes back as Bayley talks trash. Tag to Bayley, they double lift but Shayna fights out! Shayna throws Sasha then drags Bayley into a Kirafuda! BACKSTABBER from Sasha!
Bayley hurries up top but Sasha is legal, cover, TWO! Bayley tags back in, Sasha sets Shayna up for her, MACHO ELBOW!! Cover, TWO!! The role models are beside themselves as Shayna survives again! Bayley drags Shayna over, tags Sasha and then sends Shayna on the apron. Sasha baseball slide dropkicks Shayna in the side! Shayna scrambles to the other corner, Sasha runs and METEORAS into the post!! Sasha crashes and burns and Bayley freaks out! A ring count starts, Sasha stands at 3 but Shayna is on her at the apron. Sasha hotshots Shayna, climbs up and swings, but Shayna catches the knees to send them into buckles! CHOP BLOCK! Sasha is down and clutching both knees as Shayna aims. CHOP BLOCK!!
Shayna drags Sasha around by the bad legs, steps through but Sasha cradle counters! TWO, Shayna DECKS Bayley! Shayna has Sasha’s legs again, and stomps away on the bad knee!! Sasha can only scream in pain as Shayna ties the legs up in a Deathlock. Bayley runs in, it’s just like Payback! But Bayley uses the BAYLEY2BELLY to counter!! Shayna is down, Sasha crawls to cover, TWO!! But into a BANK STATEMENT! Nia clobbers Bayley and kicks Sasha! Nia goes back to her corner, Shayna crawls over, and gets the tag! Nia has Sasha in a STRETCH MUFFLER!! Sasha powers up and sunset flips, TWO!! Nia drags Sasha up to a fireman’s carry, then goes to a corner! Nia climbs, Bayley gets in to save Sasha!
Sasha falls but Bayley helps her up. They see Shayna coming, and manage to give her the DOUBLE SLAM! But Nia LEAPS for a double crossbody!! Double cover, Nia and Shayna win!!
Winners: Shayna Baszler & Nia Jax, by pinfall (still WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions)
The odd couple finds another way to work together, and to win together! What will it take to stop the momentum of the most savage in the Women’s Division?
As for Sasha, medics hurry in to check on Sasha’s legs. Bayley is very concerned about Sasha, is the Boss’ knee going to be okay?
SmackDown returns as medics continue to help Sasha.
Sasha is very emotional and in a lot of pain, but she doesn’t want them to touch her. She shoves the medics away and Bayley is there to help her. Does she want to stand? Slide out? Sasha struggles to do either as Bayley helps her to the apron. And then Bayley attacks her?! Bayley drags Sasha out, dumps her on the ramp and then throws her into steel steps!! Bayley tells booing fans to shut up and tells refs to get away! Bayley brings Sasha up to POST her! Bayley goes after the bad leg and puts it on the steps to SLAM it!! And then stomp away on it!! Sasha cowers against the barriers but Bayley drag her up to throw her into those barriers! Bayley then bumps her off apron sand pushes her back in the ring!
Referees come back but Bayley tells them to shut up. Bayley drags Sasha up and RAMS her into the corner! And then stomps away on her! And hammers her with fists! And goes after the bad leg again with kicks! Sasha can’t defend herself as Bayley drags her up. Bayley asks Michael Cole if it’s Boss Time now, before dribbling Sasha’s head on the mat! Bayley looms over a limp Sasha, slaps her with her own boots, and then tells her, “You deserve all of this! All of this!!” Bayley gives the bad leg a DDT! And then she gets a chair!! Bayley glares at everyone else before she puts the chair in the ring. Bayley puts Sasha’s bad leg in the chair! Sasha kicks with her good leg! Bayley KNEES Sasha down!
Bayley isn’t done with Sasha, either! Fans boo and cheer as Bayley hits Sasha with the FACEPLANT! Then she drags Sasha over to the chair, puts Sasha’s head inside, goes up to the top rope and STOMPS DOWN!! Sasha has been crushed physically and emotionally by someone she thought of as her best friend! Fans boo and jeer as Bayley leaves the ring and medics return. Bayley clutches to the SmackDown Women’s Championship, the only thing she has and the only thing she needs anymore. Will there come a time when she loses even that?
SmackDown returns as Sami Zayn heads to the ring!
The self-proclaimed “Great Liberator” is also the self-proclaimed “rightful WWE Intercontinental Champion.” He returned last week, still holding onto his copy of the championship and wants Greg Hamilton to give a better introduction. He is holding a title, why is he just “Sami Zayn” then? Address him as champion! It wasn’t in the notes… Who’s the stage manager here? Evan? Where are you, Evan? Come here. Sami takes Evan’s headset and tells Marty that things are good, but… During the entrance, with the graphic, put “Intercontinental Champion” in there. Marty apparently says he can’t, because it’s not in the notes.
Sami says no one is taking this seriously! They’re going to redo things and- Here comes Jeff Hardy! Hardy tells Sami he could’ve saved us all some time. He didn’t need to attack Hardy, he just had to ask for a title match. Oh is that so? How generous, and confusing, since SAMI is the champion! If anything, Hardy needs to ask Sami if he has a shot at the title. Hardy says he doesn’t need to ask for anything of Sami, but here comes AJ Styles! “How is it that you two can parade with those titles over your shoulders KNOWING I am the uncrowned Intercontinental Champion?!” Sami is upset. Is everyone crazy? Hardy tells Styles if he’s 100%, they can go again any time. Sami says that’s not how this works, but Styles DECKS Hardy!
Styles stomps away on Hardy, Sami is in the other corner but keeps his distance. Then they work together to stomp Hardy, until Styles KICKS Sami in the head! Styles reels Sami in but Hardy gives Styles a TWIST OF FATE! And then one for Sami, but no! Sami fights out and HELLUVA KICKS!! Fans boo as Sami gets away with whichever belt was his. Will there be a way to settle this come Clash of Champions?
A substitution has been made!
With Big E out because of Sheamus’ attack, and perhaps with some consulting from Paul Heyman, it’s JEY USO in the Fatal 4 Way! Will Roman have to face his own COUSIN come Clash of Champions?! We’re about to find out!!
SmackDown returns, and someone is strutting their stuff.
High heels, a fur coat, but who is it that’s about to make SmackDown more alluring?
Tucker and Otis regroup backstage.
They haven’t found Morrison or the MITB contract. Otis says it’s fine, but Tucky says it’s not! Morrison has the contract! No he doesn’t. It’s not in the briefcase, it’s in the lunch pail! Brilliant! But if that’s in here, what was in the briefcase? Heh heh heh…
Meanwhile, Miz tells Morrison that stealing the briefcase doesn’t make you Mr. MITB. Morison begs to differ. He opens it up, and rummages through a stapler, some Q-tips, and… a ham ‘n’ cheese sandwich. Well… Don’t eat that. Whatever. Will Morrison and Miz ditch the glorified lunchbox to get the real prize?
Jey meets with Roman backstage.
Jey thanks him for getting him into that Fatal 4 Way. Roman says Jey doesn’t owe him. It’s just about time the WWE shows the Usos some respect. Jey is gonna go get it, and then the two of them can “turn up” at Clash. Roman’s not so sure about that. Jimmy’s won things, Roman’s won just about everything, now it’s time for Jey to get something on his own. Good luck.
WWE Universal Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Matt Riddle VS Baron Corbin VS Sheamus VS Jey Uso!
Bro… One of these decorated superstars is going to make it to Clash of Champions to go after the Big Dog’s gold! The King of Bros wants to get payback at the Wolf King and vice-versa, the Celtic Warrior claims he’s completely focused, but now they all have to deal with a wildcard! Will Jey be able #LOCKDOWN a singles push and put them all in the Uso Penitentiary?
Corbin wants the music to stop, because this match “has been tainted by blatant nepotism!” He does not accept Jey Uso being in this match just because Roman is his cousin! Riddle doesn’t care about all that, he runs at Corbin and his palanquin! Corbin can’t get down fast enough and Riddle fires off! They brawl on stage, Corbin knees low but turns around into Riddle’s haymakers! Riddle and Corbin bump into LED wall, Corbin throws body shots and here comes Sheamus to knock them both down the ramp! Sheamus throws Riddle into the ring, gets in with him and Jey hurries out to go after Corbin!
There’s brawls all over as Jey has Corbin on barriers and Riddle throws kicks on Sheamus. Corbin throws Jey into barriers, Sheamus clubs Riddle down but Riddle comes back! It’s chaos as SmackDown again goes to break!
SmackDown returns with a new episode of Firefly Fun House!
Bray Wyatt waves hi to the Fireflies and best we’re just like him: “A little down in the dumps because he lost his favorite toy, again.” But don’t worry! Next week, Bray has something special planned to cheer us up! A brand new friend is joining the Fun House! Who could it be?! Wait and see! BYE~! See you then~!
Nikki Cross was watching Firefly Fun House.
Alexa Bliss comes by, hairs still in pigtails and braids. Is that Ramblin’ Rabbit in the back waving?! Alexa apologizes for smashing the mug, she just… Something came over her. Can Nikki forgive her? Of course! Okay! Alexa gives Nikki a hug and then heads off. Is everything (not) fine with Alexa?
WWE Universal Championship #1 Contender’s Fatal 4 Way: Matt Riddle VS Baron Corbin VS Sheamus VS Jey Uso!
Okay, let’s try this again! All four men are in the ring, a corner to themselves, and a referee in the middle. Who moves on to Clash of Champions to face Roman Reigns?
The bell rings and Corbin runs at Riddle to get a SUPERKICK from Jey! Sheamus tackles Jey but Riddle goes after Sheamus. Sheamus throws Riddle off, Jey ROCKS him with an uppercut! Riddle rolls Jey, TWO! Riddle says nothing personal, bro. Riddle KNEES Sheamus out, Jey rolls him up! TWO, Riddle waistlocks and German Suplexes, but Jey lands on his feet! Jey runs, Corbin trips him up, drags him out and RAMS him into barriers! Sheamus gets in, scoops Riddle and hits a BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Corbin rushes in and stares down with Sheamus. They decide to stomp Riddle together, drag him up and mug him with body shots! Corbin keeps Jey out and the mugging of Riddle continues.
Corbin ROCKS Riddle with a right, Sheamus drags Riddle up, and they double whip Riddle. Riddle holds ropes, BOOTS Corbin then dumps Sheamus out! But Corbin SPINE BUSTERS Riddle! High stack, Jey breaks the cover! Corbin CLOBBERS Jey, covers, TWO! Sheamus returns, he and Corbin keep their truce as they go after Jey. They each take a turn digging their knees into Jey, then Sheamus ROCKS Jey with that EuroUpper! Corbin DECKS Riddle on the apron, then brings Jey up to ROCK him with a right. Corbin runs in, slides out as Jey dodges, and Riddle ROUNDHOUSES Corbin down! Jey boots Sheamus, rocks him with uppercuts of his own, but Sheamus kicks low.
Sheamus whips, Jey kicks back, Riddle returns to CHOP away with palm strikes! Riddle has Sheamus in a corner, Jey kicks at Corbin but Corbin blocks. Corbin spins Jey but gets the dragon whip enzugiri! Riddle spins Sheamus for a PELE! Corbin and Sheamus are in corners, Jey and Riddle work together to forearm smash back and forth! But they each run into trouble, DEEP SIX and an IRISH CURSE! Covers on both ends, TWO!! Corbin argues with the ref but then Sheamus CLOBBERS Corbin! No more truce, and the Fella stands tall as we go to break.
SmackDown returns and Sheamus brings Jey up. Jey throws uppercuts and CHOPS to back Sheamus down. Sheamus knees low, suplexes Jey hard, but Jey rolls out of the ring. Sheamus sees Corbin and hits him with punches and stomps and then hotshots him down! Sheamus runs side to side to dropkick Corbin to the floor! Sheamus finds Jey on the other apron, brings him up, and gives him beats of the Bodhrain! Sheamus gives him all ten beats before he lets him flop down. Sheamus drags Jey back up, fireman’s carries, but Riddle ROUNDHOUSES him down! Riddle dodges Corbin, wristlock, FINAL FLASH!
Sheamus swings but Riddle hits back with palm strikes and a boot! BROSPLODER! PENALTY KICK! BROTON!! Riddle is all fired up! Riddle has Sheamus for a GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Riddle keeps his focus as he drags Sheamus into a Triangle Hold! Sheamus fights up, Riddle elbows away on Sheamus’ head, but Sheamus keeps fighting up! DEAD LIFT POWERBOMB! High stack, TWO, but Sheamus gets the legs for a CLOVERLEAF! Riddle endures as Sheamus sits deep, and Riddle powers up to head for ropes. Sheamus drags Riddle back to center, but Jey is in to SUPERKICK Sheamus down!
Corbin returns to roll Jey up, TWO!! Corbin choke grips but Jey slips out to mule kick and uppercut! Jey aims, boom for the HIP ATTACK! SUPERKICK for Riddle! SUPERKICK for Sheamus! Corbin runs in, Jey dodges to SUPERKICK him down! Everyone else is on the outside but Jey is fired up! Jey builds speed and DIVES into an elbow from Corbin! Sheamus and Riddle attack Corbin and clothesline him into the “front row!” But then Jey FLIES out onto them both!! All four men are down and out of the ring as the fans fire up! Jey stands, Corbin returns to grab at him! Jey elbows and hotshots Corbin off the barriers! Then LEAPS, into hands! Corbin TOSSES Jey over the LED fan screens!!
Corbin goes back to ringside and tosses Riddle into barriers! Then into the ring! Corbin stalks behind Riddle, reels him in, but no End of Days as Riddle slips out! BROGUE outta nowhere!! But Riddle fireman’s carries Sheamus for a BRO TO SLEEP! Riddle sees Corbin in a drop zone, goes up top, and hits a FLOATING BRO! But Jey outta nowhere with a SPLASH!! Jey wins!?!?
Winner: Jey Uso, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the Universal Championship)
Where the Uce did he come from!? But now, we will get cousin VS cousin at Clash of Champions! Kayla Braxton is there to interview Jey in the ring. How important was this win for him? “YESSIR!! Hey, Big Dog! I made the family proud, too! But guess what?” Roman will be on #LOCKDOWN! Welcome… Well you know the rest! But will either man be able to do what he has to in order to defeat family?
My Thoughts:
Wow, this episode managed to only have three matches, and yet it still felt really good. Heyman and Heel Roman had a great opening promo, and Roman’s new tone was played really well the entire episode. I like the idea that SmackDown had a Fatal 4 because they wanted to be bigger than Raw to show that’s how big it is that Roman is champion again. The Xavier Woods return swerve was really well executed, as was Sheamus brutalizing Big E. It was quite the elaborate way to keep Big E out of the main event, and it was quite the surprise for Jey to be put in. Though, I have a feeling that this is because Heyman and even Roman feel Jey will be an easy win. Now, obviously Roman will win at Clash, he only just got the title back and he’s not facing either Bray or Braun. But in story, it adds to the Heel turn if Roman doesn’t even respect family anymore, he just expects them to fall in line behind him.
The opening tag match was really good stuff, and it makes a lot of sense for Heavy Machinery to win. They’re the only other Face tag team on SmackDown to face the Heel team of Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. I do like the swerve on Morrison stealing the MITB briefcase, and it’s a great way for Otis to technically customize the briefcase in different way than others have, such as Brock’s boombox or Damien Sandow’s leather briefcase. I am pretty sure the confrontation between Hardy, Styles and Sami is bringing us ever closer to the idea of a new “Undisputed Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match” that I was hoping for. And making it Triple Threat can still lighten the load on all three men’s bodies with ladder matches being very punishing.
The random Firefly Fun House segment was good to hype up next week. I really hope we get Puppet Cena, but chances are it could even be Alexa Bliss herself. She and Nikki Cross had their little chat with Ramblin’ Rabbit watching them, so clearly there’s even more about to happen with that story. The random woman strutting in heels thing is interesting. I’m not sure who, new or returning, could be pulling off the umpteenth “glamorous female wrestler” gimmick for WWE this time.
And of course, the biggest thing tonight was the Women’s Tag title match and what happened right after. The match was incredible, much like the Payback one, and it was clear Shayna and Nia were going to retain. I just did NOT see Bayley turning on Sasha! That was BRUTAL! But I also think it means that Sasha is joining the case of The Mandalorian for season 2 as rumored a few months ago, so she needed to be written off. This definitely gives Bayley the Heel heat she needs to stay solo while taking on new challengers. This also gives Sasha a great way to come back when filming for The Mandalorian ins over, as a Face, and attacking Bayley, regardless if Bayley still has the title.
My Score: 8.5/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
 MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)Â
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports PodcastÂ
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Will the landscape change again?
Eddy Thorpe keeps prodding and provoking Oba Femi, so he gets his last chance at the NXT Championship! Will Eddy truly be the alpha of NXT?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- NXT Heritage Cup Championship: Lexis King VS Charlie Dempsey; wins and
- NXT North American Championship: Tony D’Angelo w/ The D’Angelo Family VS Ridge Holland; wins and
- NXT Championship: Oba Femi VS Eddy Thorpe; wins and
PLAY BY PLAY
[Due to the scheduling choices of KVIA2 CW (El Paso & Las Cruces), coverage of NXT will not begin until 9PM Eastern]
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
 MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)Â
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports PodcastÂ
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Time to burn it down!
Ahead of entering the Royal Rumble, Seth Rollins and Drew McIntyre go one more round in a rematch from WrestleMania 40!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Kofi Kingston w/ Xavier Woods VS Rey Mysterio; Rey wins.
- Bayley VS Nia Jax; Nia wins.
- PENTA VS Pete Dunne; Penta wins.
- Damage CTRL VS Pure Fusion Collective; DMG CTRL wins.
- Seth Rollins VS Drew McIntyre; Rollins wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Nia Jax ambushes Rhea Ripley!
The Irresistible Force is here on Raw to face Bayley, but she’s getting her payback on Mami for last week! She dribbles Rhea into the steel chain link fencing again and again, even as security and Adam Pearce rush in! They get Nia to stop, but Rhea is pissed! Will Nia regret riling up Rhea Bloody Ripley?
Jey Uso is here!
Dallas fires up and bounces along as it’s time to YEET! Michael Cole does his best to keep up with the beat as Main Event Jey makes his way down the bleachers. Wade Barrett is subbing in for Pat McAfee (the NCAA College Football Championship is also tonight), and Wade says Maggle looks like a “drunk grandpa” doing the YEET. Jey makes it to ringside, he high fives Maggle, then goes to the ring. But the YEET doesn’t slow down, it just keeps going! Jey grabs a mic and tells Dallas, “Main Event Jey Uso is now in your citaaaaaa~!” The fans cheer and join in with a “YEET!” Jey says this weekend, “YEET!” Saturday Night’s Main Event, “YEET!” Jey takes home the big one!
But then before Jey can continue, GUNTHER makes his way out here! Der Ring General, World Heavyweight Championship around his waist, makes his way right to the ring. Gunther grabs himself a mic while the fans boo. Jey paces but Gunther tells him, “Lemme guess, the next thing you were about to say is you were going to win the World Heavyweight title.” Jey confirms, he is gonna beat Gunther, then hang the title up in his room. Gunther says Jey really is “a funny little man.” But let’s not act like we both know it won’t happen. Last week, Jey was right here in front of Gunther, and he said every morning, he looks in the mirror and bets on himself.
The thing is, Gunther believes Jey. Gunther was looking forward to Saturday to square off with Main Event Jey Uso. Until today, when he saw Jey walking in here acting like that conversation last week never happened. Not after seeing Jey act like a complete DORK! Like he’s the company mascot for the fans! At this point, Gunther doesn’t even care. He could jsut as well get challenged by Jimmy Uso. Jey tells Gunther to not say something about his brother. Gunther says it doesn’t matter what Jey says, he never follows up with his actions! The fans are the only ones naive enough to believe everything Jey says. Gunther does not.
Bet on yourself? Until when? Until Roman Reigns whistles for him? Until Sami Zayn needs him? Until Jimmy needs him? Even Cody needed Jey and Jey showed up! All that makes Jey is a useful idiot, and Jey doesn’t even see it! Jey, your words and your actions do not align. Gunther’s always do! So on Saturday, when the bell rings, Gunther exposes Jey for the flash in the pan that has NO business being even this close to the World Heavyweight Championship. The fans boo but Gunther tells Jey to go. The fans “YEET! YEET! YEET!” but Jey says Gunther’s right again. Everything Gunther just said is true again.
Jey is the mascot of the WWE. And the fans here are his team. The fans are his squad. They ride with him! “YEET!” Slide with him! “YEET!” And they will be with him when he beats Gunther for the world championship! “YEET!” Jey reminds us he respects Gunther. But Gunther will respect Jey, too. Because only one of them in this ring main-evented a WrestleMania, and it ain’t Gunther. But then Gunther DECKS Jey! Gunther stomps Jey, the fans boo, but then Gunther DECKS Jey again! Gunther stands Jey up, but Jey TACKLES Gunther! Jey rains down fists and teh fans fire up! Gunther gets up, but Jey fires more hands!
Jey has Gunther’s shirt over his head for a hockey scrum! Gunther gets free, but Jey SUPERKICKS him down! The fans all “YEET!” while Der Ring General retreats! Jey has the belt and he dares Gunther to come get it! Jey drops it at the ropes, Gunther storms up to the apron, but Gunther stays back. Gunther leaves Dallas with the belt tonight, but will Jey leave San Antonio with it this Saturday?
The New Day walks the halls.
And then they spot someone. “Finally, somebody who understands!” JBL is here! They all shake hands, and JBL loves seeing them. Kofi Kingston says JBL is not just a champion and a Hall of Famer, but he’ll be on commentary tonight for The New Day’s match with that “hypocrite of a locker room leader,” Rey Mysterio. JBL should let New Day know they are the victims of a disgusting smear campaign! Kofi even sweetens the deal with a whole $2. Kofi says JBL understands being in a tag team but having to cut the deadweight to get ahead. And when he did, what happened? He had the greatest success of his career!
Not as great as The New Day, but please, be an acolyte for ya bois! JBL says yes, he does “get it.” Big E, all the muscles and charisma and personality, everywhere they go, the fans love Big E. Everyone chants for New Day, for Big E. You get rid of him, the fans have to pay attention to Kofi & Woods! Wow, okay. Backhanded compliments? Be that way. The New Day heads out, JBL asks if he can keep the two bucks. Will Kofi & Woods finally see who’s really in the wrong? Or will they continue to have a bad day here on Raw?
Backstage interview with Bayley.
Cathy Kelley is with the “busiest superstar” in WWE right now, as Bayley was on Raw, NXTÂ and SmackDown all last week. And she has an announcement to make, so for those who ahven’t heard, could she share? Yes, cat is out of the bag, Bayley is back on Raw officially via the Transfer Window! She started here after her NXT call-up, so it just feels right. But also, she is declaring for the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble! And if you remember, she won the 2024 Rumble, so going back to back sounds really good. She could choose Tiffany Stratton, she could choose Rhea Ripley, or- Nia Jax interrupts.
Nia says Bayley can have Rhea, Nia gets Tiffy. Also, Nia is going to win the Women’s Rumble, not Bayley. Oh, yeah, Bayley did see what Nia did to Rhea earlier. If Nia wants to try that, Bayley dares her. Nia says she’ll see Bayley out there. Nia leaves, but will the Irresistible Force rough Bayley up the same way she did Rhea? Or will Bayley continue to be the Role Model, even after changing brands?
Kofi Kingston w/ Xavier Woods VS Rey Mysterio!
Raw returns and JBL is out there with Wade and Maggle already. The New Day makes their entrance, and they hate their song! They have it turn off, they get the tron to stop, and Woods says they already told the idiots in production that they’re no longer using that stuff! It’s ya bois, the NEW~ DAY~, and Dallas is starting to piss Kofi off! They have been doing this for too long and too well to be disrespected like this. They are walking Hall of Famers, unlike this FRAUD, JBL! JBL, give him that money back! Kofi snatches it out of JBL’s lapel pocket. Woods says Rey’s getting the brakes beat off him by the one and only Kofi Kingston~! BECAUSE NEW! DAY- “SUCKS!”
The fans chant “NEW! DAY SUCKS!” and the bell rings. Kofi and Rey circle, feel things out, and Kofi waistlocks to then headlock, waistlock, and he shoves Rey to a corner. The fans boo but Kofi soaks up that heat. JBL says this is the only time he’ll cheer a “deadbeat dad” like Rey. Rey and Kofi tie up, Rey waistlocks but Kofi switches to SLAM Rey down! Kofi slaps Rey around, and the fans boo as Kofi & Woods soak up the heat. Kofi taunts Rey, Rey and Kofi reset, and they tie up. Rey wrenches, hammerlocks, but Kofi wrenches out. Kofi wristlocks, Rey rolls and kips up, then Rey wrenches to headlock.
Kofi powers up and out, drops down then CLOBBERS Rey! The fans boo but Kofi keeps moving. Rey drops down, blows past Kofi, then tilt-o-whirls to RANA! Kofi staggers up, Rey dropkicks the legs out! Kofi is on ropes, Rey dials it up, but Kofi ducks the 619! Rey then PLANCHAS, but Kofi moves! Rey is on the apron, Kofi YANKS him down! The fans tell Kofi off but he drags Rey up and into the ring. Kofi then fires UPPERCUTS on Kofi, CHOKES him in the corner, then stomps a mudhole in! The ref counts, Kofi steps off, and then Kofi whips corner to corner. Rey reverses, runs up, but Kofi SWING KICKS! Rey GAMANGIRIS in return!
Rey RAMS Kofi, slingshots and SUNSET- NO, Kofi holds on, and he CLUBS Rey down! The fans boo but Kofi brings Rey in! Woods says watch this, “Hall of Famer!” Kofi lifts Rey, Rey pops free, but Kofi stomps away on him! Kofi glares at JBL, then he drags Rey up. The fans boo but Kofi SMACKS Rey off the apron. Kofi then reels Rey in, but Rey RANAS Kofi into the steel steps! The fans fire up as Rey rises, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Kofi has Rey down with an armlock. Rey fights to his feet, the fans fire up, and the forearms go back and forth! Kofi ROCKS Rey, Rey ROCKS Kofi, but then Kofi kicks low! Kofi whips, Rey ducks ‘n’ dodges, then Rey leaps to FLYING FOREARM! Both men are down and the fans fire up again. Woods coaches Kofi while Rey goes to the apron. Rey then goes to the corner, but Kofi hurries over that way. Kofi fires body shots, then he climbs up after Rey. Kofi brings Rey up but Rey fires body shots in return! Rey BENDS Kofi’s fingers, then he HEADBUTTS Kofi! Kofi staggers up, Rey hits the SEATED SENTON!
Rey gets moving, but Kofi ducks the springboard crossbody! Kofi sunset flip, but Rey rolls through, basement DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Kofi goes to a corner, Rey CLUBS him, and the fans rally. The ref gets between them, but Kofi pokes Rey in the eyes! Kofi leaps, CROSSBODY SPLASH to the back! Cover, TWO! The fans rally for Rey as he stays in this. The fans chant “NEW! DAY SUCKS!” Woods argues with a fan, Kofi aims, TROUBLE IN- NO, Rey dodges, then comes back to RANA! Kofi is on ropes, Rey dials it up! But Woods trips Rey! The ref saw that clear as day! Woods argues with the ref, but the ref EJECTS Woods!
The fans fire up while Woods throws a fit! Rey DECKS Woods! But Kofi CLOBBERS Rey! The fans boo, but Kofi hauls Rey up! Rey victory rolls Kofi onto ropes! Rey redials, 619!! And then the springboard, but onto knees! Kofi covers, TWO!! Rey survives, the fans fire up, but Kofi seethes. Kofi hauls Rey up, clinches, S O- NO! Rey makes the SOS a cover, REY WINS!
Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall
But Woods CLBOBERS Rey from behind! The New Day mugs Rey, the fans boo more, but here comes the LWO! Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro run The New Day off! The fans boo, Cruz & Wilde check Rey, but then the New Day sneak back in! They drag Wilde out to POST him! Cruz hurries but now New Day retreats for real! Insult to injury here, but will Kofi & Woods continue to be blinded by their own arrogance?
Backstage interview with Team American Made.
Cathy Kelley waits as Chad Gable is arguing with his own people, then says okay, sorry, he was inspiring the team. But yeah, he’s the talk of the whole freakin’ wrestling world the past week, but he is man enough to admit he has a problem. And it all started with losing to Penta last week! It was Dragon Lee before that, and Rey Mysterio before that. Gable asks, “What’re we gonna do her?” But he’s figured it out! He found a man who knows a thing or two about lucha libre, and that man is intelligent with a mustache to match. That man is Dominik Mysterio! While Dom helps Gable with his lucha problem, the team has their marching order.
Ivy Nile says there’s a Women’s Intercontinental Championship with her name all over it. Brutus says those tag titles should’ve already had their names on them, HAHA~! Julius mocks how War Raiders cry about “One more injury~ and we’re done forever~!” Like that’s something to be proud of? No more asking, they’re just taking! They’ll take those tag titles from a team near the end of their career and put them on a team that’s entering their prime. Gable says this team that bleeds red, white ‘n’ blue will have waists wrapped in gold, and it will be glorious. Team American Made heads out, but can Dirty Dom really help Gable clean up his act?
Sami Zayn is here!
Dallas sings his song, and the Underdog from the Underground goes right to the ring. He grabs a mic and thanks Dallas for that, that never gets old. But he wont’ beat around the bush, he’ll just get right to business. Sami spoke with Adam Pearce, and Sami is now officially entered into the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble match! The fans like the sound of that! Sami says Rollins told him he’s already helped a lot of others, so time to help himself. Well, Sami thought about that, and thought about what he wants. When he thought about that, it opened a whole bunch of thoughts. Sami pictured what 14-year-old Sami wanted.
Sami thought about what the millions around the world who dream of becoming pro-wrestlers, and the thousands who actually live the dream and get to do it. And then the even smaller group lucky enough to call themselves WWE Superstars. And then the smallest group of all, the hardest to crack into at all, is the upper echelon, the top tier, and that is where Sami is now! The fans cheer, and Sami firmly believes he is as good as everyone else in that group. That group is all in the Royal Rumble, and the only difference between Sami and the others, aka Roman, McIntyre, Rollins, and so on, is that they all have a world title to their name… and Sami doesn’t.
Sami has said it before, he’ll say it again, he’s had a great life, a great career. He doesn’t need the world title to complete him. The fans have supported Sami throughout the years, and believe it or not, that support means more to him than any world title could ever mean! So no, Sami does not need that world title, but DAMMIT, he WANTS it!! The fans love that! Sami says 14-year-old Sami wants that title, and he’s still with Sami! That kid sets foot in this ring every time Sami does. So Sami doesn’t need it, he wants it, so he will TAKE IT! WAIT, Kevin Owens is here!? The fans boo and Sami is certainly stunned seeing SmackDown’s Prizefighter back on Raw.
Kevin, who is still carrying the “Winged Eagle” title, while wearing a Bret Hart merchandise jacket, makes his way to the ring. Kevin grabs the mic, and while fans boo, he looks to Sami. Sami says he knew it was a matter of time before Kevin showed up. How does Kevin wanna do this? Kevin asks what Sami means. Sami knows Kevin. We all saw what Kevin did to Cody over teaming with Roman, so how’s this going down? Aw, is that why Sami thinks Kevin is here? No, Kevin admits, he was upset at first. But he realizes now that Sami teaming with Roman isn’t the same as Cody teaming with Roman.
Sami and Roman had a lot of history, the same as Sami and Kevin. And Roman did terrible things to Sami that Sami overlooked, just as Kevin did to Sami that Sami has overlooked. Or rather, Sami forgave Kevin for those things. Same as him forgiving Roman! Because that is who Sami is: Sami is a good person. And Rollins is right, Sami does a lot for others, especially his friends. And well, Sami is still Kevin’s best friend. A brother even! Kevin is here to tell his brother that he whole heartedly believes Sami can and will win the Royal Rumble. Kevin knows that the Sami he’s known for 20 YEARS will win the Royal Rumble!
And why? Because Sami deserves it! Sami deserves to go to WrestleMania and fight for the WWE Championship, and Kevin knows Sami will do it! Then Kevin and Sami can accomplish one more thing together. Think of everything they’ve done and seen each other do in this business. They main-evented WrestleMania to become tag team champions. But there’s one more thing they haven’t done: main event WrestleMania for THE WWE Championship. And when Sami wins the Rumble, they can do that, so long as Kevin walks away THE WWE Champion. But Kevin knows both of those things are going to happen.
Kevin knows Sami will win the Rumble because Kevin has his back. He does. And Kevin knows he’ll be THE WWE Champion because just like Sami had Roman’s back, he’s got Kevin’s back. Right? Kevin just knows it. Sami is his best friend, his brother, and if Kevin needs him, Sami will be there. Kevin drops his mic and heads out, but Sami is rather confused. Is Kevin suggesting Sami do what it sounds like? What will Sami do on this Road to WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Sheamus.
Cathy is with The Fella and brings up his Intercontinental Championship match he has this Saturday against Bron Breakker. Why is this title so important to him? Sheamus says many would look at his career, and say he has the perfect backwards WWE career. He was only six months into his career, and he beat one of the biggest names this business has ever seen in John Cena to become WWE Champion. Ironically, the Intercontinental Champioship is what drew Sheamus to the WWE. That title has become an obsession for the past five years, but guess what? The stars are aligned! Saturday Night’s Main Event, Sheamus will bust Bron aside and fulfill destiny!
Sheamus will win the last championship he has yet to win! And for everyone who is watching, Let’s Go, Irish! A quick shoutout to Notre Dame, but then Sheamus spots Bron Breakker. Bron tells Sheamus that this title is Bron’s. This is as close as Sheamus will ever get to winning it. Because on Saturday, Bron beats him and BREAKS him like an old man! So just do us all a favor and retire. Sheamus shoves Bron, but Bron laughs it off and takes his leave. Will the Celtic Warrior finally have his WWE Bingo in another banger? Or will this title still belong to Bron Breakker?
Bayley VS Nia Jax!
The Role Model and the Irresistible Force were just on SmackDown but they’re bringing their beef over to Raw! Will Bayley make her official transfer back a successful one? Or will Nia be rolling towards the Royal Rumble?
Well, well, well, Roxanne Perez seems to be stalking Bayley. She was in the crowd for SmackDown last Friday, and now she’s here in the crowd tonight. The bell rings, Nia runs up, but Bayley dodges! Nia hits buckles, Bayley fires hands, then runs to ELBOW her! Bayley climbs up to rain down fists! The fans count, Bayley ges to 6 before Nia brings her off the corner! Bayley still fights, but Nia stops the rana! Nia brings Bayley up to a fireman’s carry, but Bayley kicks off ropes! TORNADO DDT! Cover, TWO! Nia sits up but Bayley fires hands! Bayley runs, but into a POP-UP HEADBUTT! Bayley sputters, Nia covers, ONE!!
Bayley scrambles away but Nia stalks her. Nia puts Bayley on the ropes, CHOKES her, but the ref counts. Nia lets off at 4, she soaks up some heat, then she HEADBUTTS Bayley again. Bayley goes to a corner, Nia digs her boot in, but the ref counts. Nia stops at 4, the fans boo some more, and Bayley crawls. Nia drags Bayley up, pushes her down, then runs, only for Bayley to avoid the elbow drop! Bayley fires forearms, then whips. Nia takes a swing but Bayley gets around to hit a back suplex! Cover, TWO! Nia is tougher than that but she’s also dazed. Bayley rises, runs in, but Nia URENAGES Bayley down! Now Nia climbs the corner!
The fans fire up as Bayley SHOVES Nia to the apron! Bayley BOOTS Nia to the floor, then builds speed! Bayley DIVES, down goes Nia! The fans fire up and Bayley gets in Roxie’s face! Roxie takes a swing, but Bayley blocks! Bayley DECKS Roxie! The fans go wild, security stops Roxie from getting at Bayley! Bayley mocks the little idiot, then goes back for Nia while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Nia drags Bayley up. Nia drops a LEG on the arm! Cover, TWO!! Bayley survives and Nia grows frustrated. Nia taunts Bayley, the fans boo Nia, and Bayley sits up. Nia drags Bayley by her hair, then runs, but Bayley avoids the leg drop! Bayley hurries to ELBOW Nia in the back! And then SLIDING LARIAT! Bayley keeps moving, and drops an ELBOW! Cover, TWO! Nia survives the onslaught but the fans rally for Bayley. Both women slowly rise up, and Bayley runs up to KNEE Nia out to the apron! Bayley then drags Nia in through the ropes, but Nia HOTSHOTS the bad arm!
Bayley writhes, Nia taunts the fans, then Nia goes back to the apron. Nia stands on Bayley’s bad arm! But Bayley avoids another leg drop! Nia clutches her lower back while she and Bayley both rise up again. Bayley runs in to SUNSET FLIP BUCKLE BOMB! Nia flops to the floor and the fans fire up! Bayley leaves Nia behind for the count to handle this. Nia is still down at 5 of 10, and at 7! Nia springs up and in at 8! But Bayley goes up, up, and she hits a BANZAI DROP! Cover, TWO! Bayley didn’t quite A-Nia-Late Nia, but she goes up to ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Nia survives again but if only barely!
The fans rally as Bayley brings Nia up. Nia shoves Bayley away, then scoops her, SHOULDER BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Bayley stays in this and the fans rally up again. Bayley goes to a corner, Nia runs in, and Nia SPLASHES Bayley! Bayley flounders against the ropes, then Nia runs in. Bayley TOSSES Nia to the apron, but Nia ROCKS Bayley! Nia drags Bayley up, and POSTS her! Bayley dangles in the ropes, and Nia snarls. Nia runs to HIP ATTACK Bayley against the post! Bayley flounders back in, the fans boo, and Nia climbs up! But Bayley is up to YANK Nia down! The fans fire up as Bayley runs, and she KNEES Nia down! Cover, TWO!!
Nia survives yet again but the fans continue to rally behind Bayley. Bayley goes up a corner, but now Nia is up! Nia ROCKS Bayley, then climbs up after her. Nia fireman’s carries, but Bayley squirms around! SUPER SUNSET FLIP BOMB!! Cover, TWO?!?! Nia survives that wild fall but Bayley goes right back up! MACHO ELBOW!! Cover, TWO!!! Nia survives again and Bayley is beside herself! Nia and Bayley rise, and the fans fire up again. Bayley reels Nia in, but the bad arm won’t let her clinch! Nia fireman’s carries, but Bayley fights free! Bayley runs, CHOP BLOCKS a leg, then hurries to run again. Nia POP-UP SAMOAN DROPS!!
Nia hurries to SENTON! Then she drags Bayley to a drop zone! Nia goes up, to A-NIA-LATE Bayley! Cover, Nia wins!!
Winner: Nia Jax, by pinfall
A powerful battle between two former champions, but the Irresistible Force crushes Bayley on her return to Raw! But wait! RHEA RIPLEY makes her way out here! Mami wants revenge, and Nia says bring it! They brawl in the ring, the fans fire up, and Rhea HEADBUTTS Nia! Rhea RAMS Nia into the corner again and again, but here comes security! The fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT!” but the two are separated! But then Nia breaks free to SPLASH Rhea and whoever else was in the way! Nia CLUBS away on Rhea, producers and refs rush out here to stop this, but Rhea is up! She LEAPS at Nia for more!
The fans are thunderous as Rhea shoves everyone out of the way to ROUNDHOUSE Nia! Nia falls out of the ring, but rhea isn’t done! Rhea goes to the apron, but Nia trips her up! Nia DRIBBLES Rhea off the announce desk! Nia now clears the desk, and Adam Pearce is shouting that this is enough! Nia puts Rhea on the desk, but security swarms her! Wait, Rhea is back up! CANNONBALL!! Rhea takes Nia and the security guards out! The fans fire up but producers have to drag Rhea away from Nia! Dallas cheers on “MAMI! MAMI!” and she grabs a mic. Rhea gets on the desk to shout, “YOU! ME! SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT!!”
The fans are all fired up, because now things are going to get wild in San Antonio! But will the Queen of the Ring A-Nia-Late Rhea? Or will Nia get eradicated?
Judgment Day meets with American Made.
The others aren’t so sure about this, but Chad Gable says Dom said he could help with Gable’s luchador problem. Does he have some info? C’mon! Help him out! Okay, okay. Dom has someone who can help Gable. Dom hands him a piece of paper, and Gable asks, “This is the guy?” Dom says it sure is. Gable tells Judgment Day and “JD McDouche” that he’s off to master the dark arts of lucha libre. The others ask Dom what this is all about. Dom says it’s a long story but he and Gable go way back. Okay, fine, but how does this help Judgment Day? Next week is the tag title rematch but Finn is still out of action from last week’s Street Fight!
Liv Morgan says listening to Finn hasn’t really helped them win, has it? C’mon, Liv, this is serious. They’re gonna have to forfeit! Dom says maybe he could sub in. Finn shouldn’t care so long as they get the titles back, right? JD says yeah, that’s a good point. They’ll get this. Liv says yeah, Finn should be fine. And Dom is quite the mastermind now, huh? Liv just hopes this plan goes better than the one he had for her match with Rhea. Hey, didn’t she say she was over that? Yes, she did. Can Dom not take a joke? Okay, okay. Dom does have a plan for Liv, though. And even though she’s not mad, he’ll make it up to her, okay? Oh, he will. Now, let’s go.
Liv & Dom head out, Raquel tells Carlito to stop staring. Will Judgment Day (not) keep it together?
Lyra Valkyria speaks.
“Last week, I walked into Raw ready to become a history maker. And that meant spreading my wings and shedding any dead feathers that made me doubt the heights I knew I was capable of reaching. I took fear, I took doubt, and I used them to become something more. And now that I have this, it’s about what comes next. And what comes next is building a legacy as a valiant, fighting Women’s Intercontinental Champion.” The Morrigan is ready for more, just how high will she soar?
WWE celebrates Martin Luther King Jr.
He had a dream, and that dream lives on in us. May we keep that dream alive so that it may come true every day.
Seth Rollins warms up backstage.
Sami checks with him and knows the match with McIntyre is coming up. But Sami just wants Rollins to know that as a friend, he appreciated the talk they had last week. Rollins knows, and he heard Sami out there. Rollins respects Sami’s choice. It’s about time we got that Sami back. And Sami is almost rooting for that Sami. But push comes to shove int he Rumble, Rollins will throw Sami right over the top rope. Sami says, “Not if I throw you out first.” Sami again wishes Rollins luck, then heads out. Rollins finishes his preparations, but Karrion Kross is watching from afar! Could Mr. Doomsday have his next target in mind?
PENTA VS Pete Dunne!
#CeroMiedo made its debut in the WWE just last week, and it was a massive hit! But now he’s up against a man who feels disrespected left, right, front and back! Will the Bruiserweight take out all his frustrations on the new kid in class? Or will Penta continue to blow the roof off the arenas?
The bell rings and the fans already chant, “CERO! MIEDO!” Penta tells Dunne to listen, but Dunne grabs the hand! Penta KICKS Dunne, but Dunne CHOPS! Penta CHOPS, Dunne CHOPS, then the forearms start flying! Dunne headlocks, Penta fires body shots, and Penta powers out. Penta hurdles then mule kicks Dunne, and Dunne sputters away. Penta swaggers, but Dunne CLOBBERS him! The fans boo but Dunne grabs an arm. Dunne hammerlocks that arm, pulls on the other, and he bends the fingers back! Dunne STOMPS Penta’s arm! The fans tell Dunne off while Penta writhes, but Dunne drags Penta up again.
Dunne wrenches and whips, but Penta reverses. Then Penta runs up to GAMANGIRI! Penta whips again, Dunne reverses and he GAMANGIRIS! Penta sputters, Dunne brings him up, and Dunne whips. Penta reverses. Dunne goes up and flips and SUPERKICK from Penta! Penta hits Dunne outta the sky and Dunne bails out of the ring! The fans fire up and Penta says, “CERO! MIEDO!” Penta runs and DIVES into a forearm! Dunne gives back that anti-air, then he reels Penta in. APRON X-PLEX! Penta writhes again while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns, Dunne runs up to SLIDING FOREARM Penta down! The fans boo while Penta sputters, but Dunne runs up to SLIDINGN FOREARM again! Dunne paces, the fans chant, “Butch Sucks!” but Dunne just runs up on Penta. Penta dodges, mule kicks, and he runs to SLING-DOG! Dunne flounders to a corner, Penta runs and headstands on the corner! SWINGING DROPKICK! Dunne sputters more but Penta fireman’s carries. The fans fire up for the SWINGINGN DEATH VALLEY! Cover, TWO! Penta is frustrated, but the fans rally up again. Penta and Dunne rise up, and Penta goes after Dunne. Dunne ENZIGIRIS first!
Dunne STMOPS the hands, then he BUZZSAWS! Penta goes to a corner, Dunne runs up, but Penta SUPERKICKS! Penta runs up, DESTROYER!! Dunne tumbles out of the ring! The fans fire up with Penta and he builds speed again! Penta FLIES and down goes Dunne! The fans are thunderous while both men are out at the ramp! Penta and Dunne stir, the ring count climbs, and Dunne is in at 5 of 10. Penta rises at 6, and he slaps some sense into himself. Penta is back in at 7, DES- NO, Dunne stops the second shot and tucks Penta in! CRUNCHY DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!! Penta survives and the fans fire up!
Penta shakes out the bad arm, but he and Dunne sit up. They go forehead to forehead, then forearm for forearm! Dunne CHOPS, but Penta CHOPS! The fans cheer Penta on and he tells Dunne to listen! “CERO! MIEDO!” But Dunne bends the fingers, SNAPS them, then wraps Penta into a TRIANGLE HOLD! Penta endures, fights up, and he deadlifts Dunne, for a POWER BREAKER!! Dunne writhes, Penta grabs Dunne’s arm and traps it! Penta CLUBS Dunne, then grabs the other arm, SACRIFICE!! Dunne writhes in even more pain, but Penta brings him around. Pump handle, PENTA DRIVER!! Cover, Penta wins!
Winner: Penta, by pinfall
The luchador proved he could do power on top of punishing submissions, and he is 2-0 here on Raw! Will the Penta Era take over the WWE?
Logan Paul speaks.
“Man, it must suck to be a Logan Paul hater. For years, all of you have wanted me to fail. But you know why it’s never happened, and it never will? Because when I do something, I become the best at it. I became the King of the Internet. I was the only man in history to beat Floyd Mayweather. So what makes you think the WWE will be any different? Look around, dummies. This is my life now. And I will eat, sleep and breathe wrestling until I become the greatest superstar to step into that ring. You can quote me on that. You’re looking at the GOAT, ladies and gentlemen.” The Maverick makes his return next week in Atlanta, will he receive a “warm welcome?”
CM Punk is here!
The Voice of the Voiceless, the Second City Saint, the Best in the World, takes a page out of Jey Uso’s playbook by entering through the concourse and then the bleachers! Dallas fires up as he joins Jackie Redmond in the perch for an interview. Jackie says the fans love chanting Punk’s name, and thanks him for coming out here for this in-arena interview. Punk says before any questions, he has a question for us: “Is it great to be alive on a Monday night in Dallas, Texas or what?!” The fans cheer that, and Jackie says of course it is.
But to the question: There are only so many ways to get to the main event of WrestleMania, something Punk wants to do for the first time in his career. The Royal Rumble is certainly one way, but that is a match he’s never won. And it is shaping to become one of the most stacked fields ever. Punk, Roman, John Cena, Seth Rollins, Drew McIntyre, Sami Zayn, and more. So, the question is, what makes this Rumble different for Punk? Punk says, “History.” And he is a maker of history! Just three weeks ago, he main-evented the first Raw live on Netflix, and he beat Rollins, a man favored to win this year’s Rumble.
This business is a fickle one, constantly asking, “What have you down for me lately?” Punk says he makes history! And he’ll do it in two weeks when he walks in, throws 29 other superstars over the top rope. The stakes are much too high, the lights are much too bright, and the pressure is on! And that is when Punk feels alive and when he thrives. No one can beat Punk when he’s at his best and with the people behind him. Jackie brought up Cena, but Punk can’t see Cena throwing him out. Roman Reigns? Roman needed Punk’s help to settle family business at WarGames. And in the Rumble, there are no friends!
Punk has put McIntyre in the dirt, and don’t ask him about Sami. You put HOGAN in the rumble, Punk will throw his old ass out and kill Hulkamania once and for all! February 1st, 60 THOUSAND strong, on the Peacock, live and in living color, Indianapolis, Indiana, Punk will settle scores and cash in debts. He’ll even call in a favor or two if he needs to. On that night, 29 other men are going night-night, and ONE MAN gets his hand raised. One name, three syllables: C, M, PUNK! “CM” might stand for “Confident Man” right about now, but will Punk be unstoppable on this road not just to WrestleMania, but also the road to his dream?
Damage CTRL VS Pure Fusion Collective!
This rivalry went back and forth all over 2024, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down just because it is a New Year. Will Dakota Kai & Iyo Sky finally kick PFC to the curb for what they did to Kairi Sane? Or will Sonya Deville, Shayna Baszler & Zoey Stark put them on the shelf right beside the Pirate Princess?
The teams sort out, the bell rings, and Kai starts against Shayna. Shayna opens with a KICK to the leg, but Kai walks that off. Shayna KCIKS again, Kai gets mad, and the two go again. Kai blocks one kick but not the second KCIK! Shayna runs up, fakes Kai out, then trips her up! Shayna scuffs Kai, then soaks up the heat. Shayna runs back in, but Kai goes up and over to roll her up! TWO, and Kai slips past Shayna to DROPKICK her down! The fans fire up for Kai, but Shayna stops the arm-drag! Shayna whips, Kai stops herself and BOOTS Shayna away. Kai runs up, Zoey tags in before the flying mare!
Things speed up, Shayna drops down and Zoey springboards to MISSILE DORPKICK Kai down! Sonya wants everyone to take notes! Zoey clamps onto Kai with a chinlock and she grinds Kai down. The fans rally, Kai fights up, and Kai fires body shots. Zoey CLUBS Kai, CLUBS her again and again, then soaks up heat. Zoey puts Kai in the corner, tags Shayna back in, and then Zoey whips Shayna in for a KNEE! Shayna scoops Kai, BACKBREAKER and LARIAT! Shayna covers, TWO! Kai stays in this, but Sonya says her team’s got this. Kai crawls, but Shayna clamps onto the leg for a toehold.
Kai endures, kicks at Shayna with her free leg, but Shayna still bends the trapped leg! The fans rally, Kai kicks and kicks, but Shayna drops an ELBOW on the leg! Shayna tells Dallas to shut it, then she drags Kai around to bend the leg in another direction! Kai endures, reaches out for Iyo, but Shayna pulls the leg. Kai kicks at Shayna again, then BOOTS her away! Kai and Shayna crawl, hot tag to Zoey! Zoey brings Kai up but Kai ENZIGIRIS! Shayna runs back in, but Kai TOSSES her out! Hot tag to Iyo! The Genius of the Sky fires SHOTEI after SHOTEI on Zoey! Iyo ROCKS Shayna, then runs! PFC avoids the handsprings, but Iyo blocks a kick!
Iyo sends the foot at Zoey, but she ducks! Iyo SHOTEIS Zoey again! Then she dodges Shayna to GERMAN SUPLEX her away! The fans fire up as Iyo whips Zoey. Zoey reverses but Iyo uses that to DIVE onto Shayna! Iyo hurries up, blocks a shot, then ROUDNHOUSES Zoey! The fans fire up as Iyo climbs, and Iyo MISSILE DROPKICKS Zoey! Iyo handsprings up and the fans are thunderous! Iyo aims from the corner, runs in and SHINKANSEN! Iyo drags Zoey to a cover, TWO! Zoey survives but Iyo goes up. Sonya storms up, but Kai YANKS Sonya down! The fans fire up as Iyo climbs, but Shayna LARIATS Kai!
Zoey YANKS Iyo down, SUPERKICKS her, and then reels her in! ATAXIA!! Cover, TWO!! Zoey is furious, but she tags in Shayna. PFC gets Iyo up, ROLLING DEATH VALLEY, then a SLIDING KNEE! Cover, Kai breaks it! The fans fire up but Zoey TOSSES Kai! Zoey then PLANCHAS, but Kai dodges! Kai goes up to the apron to PENALTY KICK Zoey! Shayna BOOTS Kai, then dodges Iyo! KIRAFUDA KLUTCH!! Iyo flails, but she runs to the ropes! HOTSHOT and Shayna falls back! Iyo hurries up top, the fans fire up, OVER THE MOONSAULT! Cover, DMG CTRL wins!
Winners: Damage CTRL, by pinfall
PFC tried to use the numbers, but Iyo & Kai just used their skills! Will DMG CTRL still take control of Raw? Or will Sonya, Shayna & Zoey figure out a winning formula?
Seth Rollins VS Drew McIntyre!
With the Royal Rumble just down the road, it is this WrestleMania 40 rematch that could determine how WrestleMania 41 looks. The Visionary and the Scottish Terminator look to run it back, but who will be in pole position for Indianapolis?
Raw returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings, the fans fire up, and the two stare down. The fans sing Rollins’ song, and Rollins says he’s got two good knees now. No Bloodline, no CM Punk, just them! The two circle, tie up, and McIntyre pushes Rollins to the corner. The ref counts but McIntyre talks smack as he lets off. Rollins shoves McIntyre, McIntyre shoves Rollins! They stare down again, Rollins talks a bit more smack, and McIntyre grins. McIntyre CHOPS, and Rollins likes that! Rollins CHOPS, McIntyre CHOPS, repeat! The fans “WOO~” but then McIntyre headlocks. Rollins powers up and out, but McIntyre runs him over!
McIntyre looms over Rollins, then brings him up. But Rollins CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! McIntyre headlocks, Rollins powers up and out, drops down, hurdles over, then redirects McIntyre to SHOULDER TACKLE! McIntyre rebounds to SHOULDER TACKLE Rollins! The fans fire up again while Rollins goes to ropes. McIntyre stomps Rollins, ROCKS him, then stalks him to ropes. McIntyre CHOPS Rollins against the ropes, then whips. Rollins ducks ‘n’ dodges, to then SLINGBLADE! Rollins keeps moving, and he LARAITS McIntyre up and out! The fans fire up as Rollins builds speed, to WRECK McIntyre with a dropkick!
McIntyre is at the desk. Rollins builds sped, and Rollins DIVES! McIntyre hits desk, but Rollins keeps going! Rollins DIVES again, but McIntyre stops that to TOSS Rollins up and over the desk! Rollins is down between the armchairs and McIntyre snarls, but Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and both men slowly rise in the ring. McIntyre looms over Rollins, saying Rollins is still too damn selfish. But Rollins fires hands! McIntyre hits back, they go back and forth! McIntyre kicks low, whips Rollins toa corner, but Rollins BOOTS him away! McIntyre returns, and he pushes through the boot to ELBOW Rollins! McIntyre has Rollins in the Inverted Alabama Lift, ALABAMA- VICTORY ROLL! TWO!! Rollins goes back to the corner, and he BOOTS McIntyre again! The fans fire up while both men are down! Rollins feeds off that energy and rises up. Rollins ROCKS McIntyre, then counter punches him!
Rollins CHOPS and ROCKS McIntyre again and again, then CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOPS! The fans fire up, the ref counts as they’re on ropes, but Rollins roars! Rollins whips, McIntyre reveres, Rollins leaps, but into McIntyre’s arms! McIntyre pops Rollins up, but Rollins slips out of the suplex to then POST McIntyre! McIntyre staggers back, so Rollins POSTS him again! McIntyre sputters, Rollins brings him around and POSTS him a third time! McIntyre is stuck in the corner now, but Rollins SLAMS the arm against the post! Rollins aims as McIntyre staggers away. Springboard, FLYING KNEE! McIntyre says up, Rollins hits a RUNNING KNEE! Cover, TWO!
Rollins takes a breath as the fans rally up. McIntyre is down so Rollins goes to the apron. Springboard SWANTON! Cover, TWO! McIntyre survives but Rollins snarls. Rollins stalks McIntyre, grabs the arm, and he goes to wrangle McIntyre. McIntyre rolls free, fireman’s carries, but Rollins fights free! Rollins goes to a corner again, puts McIntyre on the apron, but McIntyre ROCKS Rollins! McIntyre climbs, but Rollins springs up to join him! SUPER DUPER PLEX! Roll through, but MCINTYRE hits the FALCON ARROW! Cover, TWO!! The fans fire up as both men are down! “This is Awesome!” as McIntyre kips up!
McIntyre still wobbles a bit, but he makes his way to a corner. McIntyre tells Rollins to get up. Rollins rises, McIntyre runs in, but Rollins ducks the Claymore! Now Rollins aims, and he runs up, but McIntyre hits a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Rollins survives, but McIntyre brings him in! Deadlift and- RANA! Rollins then SUPERKICKS McIntyre, runs, tilt-o-whirls, and FALCON ARROWS! The fans fire up as Rollins manages a cover, TWO!! The pin wasn’t much but neither was that kick-out, both men are running on fumes. The fans sing Rollins’ song, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!”
Rollins runs, CURB- NO, McIntyre avoids the stomp! Underhooks and FUTURE- NO, Rollins fights the DDT to underhook! PED- NO, McIntyre wrenches out to short arm LARIAT! McIntyre rolls away to go to the apron, then he drags himself up the corner. McIntyre reaches the top, Rollins stands, FLYING- NO, Rollins blocks the lariat to try and wrangle McIntyre. McIntyre scoops Rollins, Rollins slips free, and Rollins still wants the arm! McIntyre fights the takedown again so Rollins CLUBS away on the arm! Rollins brings McIntyre down, into a CROSSFACE!! McIntyre endures, reaches out, but Rollins pulls him back!
McIntyre fights, claws his way over, and he manages the ROPEBREAK! Rollins holds until the ref counts 4, and now Rollins tells McIntyre to get up and fight. “You question me? You question my integrity!?” Rollins gets in McIntyre’s face, the ref backs him off, but now McIntyre CLAWS Rollins’ face! Rollins staggers, McIntyre reels him in, underhook and FUTURE SHOCK!! Cover, TWO?!? Rollins survives and now McIntyre is pissed. McIntyre rises, and he tells Rollins that his words and actions don’t line up. Short arm LARIAT! McIntyre drags Rollins up again, short arm LARIAT! The fans rally and McIntyre shakes his head.
McIntyre tells Rollins to get up, and Rollins sputters as he slowly sits up. McIntyre reels Rollins in for a short arm- NO, Rollins slips up and around, and a jackknife bridge! ROLLINS WINS!!
Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall
Rollins snatches this one away, and McIntyre CLOBBERS Rollins for it! The fans boo but McIntyre scares the ref off. But Rollins fires hands in return! McIntyre CLAYMORES outta nowhere!! McIntyre is still seething, and he drags Rollins over to the corner. McIntyre pulls Rollins’ hair to put him up against the post! The fans boo, the ref says don’t, but SAMI ZAYN to the rescue! Sami fires hands, then he POSTS McIntyre! Sami makes sure Rollins is alright, and then Sami goes back for Drew. But he gets a GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTT for it! McIntyre stands Sami up to THROW him into barriers!
McIntyre snarls as he looks to Rollins again. McIntyre gets in the ring, and he tells Rollins they should be on the same team, but Rollins is just so selfish! But here comes Sami! McIntyre moves, HELLUVA KICK to Rollins!! The fans can’t believe it and neither can Sami! Sami apologizes to Rollins, but McIntyre grins, this all worked out for the better! Will McIntyre use everyone else against each other to ensure he is the one going to WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
Another great episode coming in at just two hours and 35 minutes or so. I don’t mind things “ending early” compared to the usual three hour run, but I am curious as to how they’re only using two-and-a-half hours. I suppose they have their plan and just go with it. That way, if things go long, they have breathing room for it. But they really could’ve added like one more thing to this and it would’ve been fine, I think. That said, good go-home stuff for Saturday Night’s Main Event, such as a good promo from Jey and Gunther. Though, they didn’t really add more to what last week had, other than that brawl. Jey stood tall, go-home math would suggest he loses.
Sheamus and Bron had a good promo to put the final touches on their build, but as I said last week, this is a rather interesting one. Sheamus really should win that Intercontinental Championship already, but I don’t know if Saturday Night’s Main Event is a “big enough stage” for such a moment. Great stuff with Bayley, Nia and Rhea tonight, especially that match. It seems the Transfer Window is finally putting some actual transfers in, what with Wyatt Sick6 on SmackDown and now Bayley on Raw. Rhea VS Nia on Saturday Night’s Main Event is going to be an awesome title match, but it feels like Rhea will retain to solidify her as champion past the Royal Rumble.
And speaking of the Rumble, Bayley is certainly a top choice to win. For one, it’d be historic for Bayley to not just win back-to-back, but to also be the first woman to have won two Rumbles at all. Very good promo from Punk to hype himself up for the Rumble, and he did mention a favor… Though, it’d be rather Heel of Punk to use a favor from Heyman to basically rig the Rumble or give him protection during it, but it’d also be great continuity as The Shield was to shield Punk. Sami of course declared for the Rumble, but Kevin showing up was a great surprise. And Kevin clearly implies that if Sami helps Kevin cheat the ladder match, Kevin will help Sami cheat the Rumble. Or rather, if Kevin does help Sami win the Rumble, Sami better help Kevin win the ladder match.
Sami also had a good promo with Rollins backstage, with the real fun part being Kross watching from the background. Kross needs a new feud with the Wyatts going to SmackDown, and moving on to names like Rollins and Sami would be some big stuff for him and The Final Testament. Rollins VS McIntyre was a great main event, and classic move having the quick pin win this so that McIntyre is still strong even in defeat. Sami making the save was also a nice touch, as was the Helluva Kick accidentally hitting Rollins. The Rumble has a lot of feuds crossing over, and Kross can add onto what happened here, we’ll get some really good chaos in that match.
Great promo between New Day and JBL to where even JBL, notorious as one of the meanest, most obnoxious Heels of his time, is on Big E’s side. And we finally got New Day back in the ring, but it’s a little disappointing that it wasn’t a tag match. Dragon Lee hasn’t gotten to do much, and he’s doing even less now. It was still a great match from Kofi VS Rey, with Rey getting his own quick pin win. New Day beating Rey up of course brought out the LWO, and I’m sure we’ll get New Day VS Cruz & Wilde next. We can only hope for Dragon Lee’s sake that he gets to be part of the blowoff for this feud. Actually, better yet would be him in the Intercontinental Championship scene.
Penta might also make a great choice for the Intercontinental Championship scene. Penta had another awesome match, as Pete Dunne is always a great opponent. Maybe Penta gets in on the Rumble so he can check that off his bucket list. He doesn’t need to win, he can just have a great showing, and rivalries can spark from those interactions. Lyra had a very good promo but I was hoping for a little more after her winning the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. DMG CTRL VS PFC was a great tag match, and a great win for DMG CTRL. Dakota and Iyo could each make a case for a match with Lyra, but clearly Ivy will be up first. She would make a solid first defense for Lyra, and then Lyra can have rematches from the tournament with Kai and Iyo.
At the same time, PFC might already be thinking about changing up the team with Zoey taking the loss. Good stuff with Judgment Day. Dom and Liv plotting and scheming while being passive aggressive is a fun phase for them. They’re probably plotting on how Liv can win the Women’s Rumble, but it’ll likely backfire and that’ll push the Liv x Dom break-up. Also, you can bet Finn won’t like Dom taking his spot against the War Raiders, especially if they win. That said, I don’t see them winning, Erik & Ivar should definitely be able to handle Dom & JD. It certainly feels more likely the Creeds can take the tag titles than Judgment Day.
I do wonder who Dom recommended to Gable, though. It’d be cool if WWE brought in some other lucha legends, as WWE seems to be expanding their partnerships. WWE is working more closely with TNA now, and I believe TNA still has a working relationship with AAA, especially after AEW moved over to working with CMLL because of the relationship with NJPW. Also a super crossover like NXTNAAA would be a lot of fun to see for WrestleMania weekend.
My Score: 8.8/10
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