Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (1/15/21)

Will Scrap Daddy sign on the dotted line?

Published

4 years ago

January 15, 2021

Steven Mitchell

SmackDown sets a contract signing for Roman Reigns VS Adam Pearce!

Despite being furious with the WWE official, the Head of the Table made Adam Pearce the new #1 contender for his WWE Universal Championship! But will Scrap Daddy find that that’s punishment enough?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Shinsuke Nakamura VS Jey Uso; Nakamura wins.
Natalya w/ Tamina VS Liv Morgan w/ Ruby Riott & Billie Kay; Natalya wins.
Rey Mysterio w/ Dominik Mysterio VS King Corbin; Corbin wins.
Cesaro VS Daniel Bryan; Cesaro wins.
Apollo Crews VS Sami Zayn; Crews wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Roman Reigns sits in his room.

He looks over the contract for the WWE Universal Championship match, and Paul Heyman says it’s the same stuff all the time. Cookie cutter, boiler plate WWE garbage. This one just happens to be for the Royal Rumble 2021. Heyman hates it, too, didn’t like it from the moment he started reading, but the match does need a stipulation. It needs the stipulation of letting Roman be Roman. Heyman can take this off Roman’s hands to bring to Adam Pearce. Roman silently hands the contract over and Heyman says he can consider this handled. But what exactly will Heyman suggest as a stipulation for The Head of the Table VS Scrap Daddy, a man who hasn’t wrestled in roughly six years?

Shinsuke Nakamura VS Jey Uso!

The King of Strong Style’s rise through the gauntlet last week was epic, but also abruptly ended as Roman Reigns and his cousin got involved. Jey welcomes us to SmackDown, and says it’s The Bloodline Show! Because Jey and Cuz Roman run this! Not Adam Pearce! Not Kevin Owens! Not nobody in the WWE Universe! Their family calls the shots, Uce! Pearce, be careful. You’re going to wish you kept that suit on. But if you thought they’re just satisfied with SmackDown, think again! Roman Reigns, the Universal Champion, the provider, needs to be thanked by all the talent in the back! The food in catering, “Thank you, Roman!” You being relevant for the first time in your careers, “Thank you, Roman!”

Jey says as far as being the right hand man, he’s trying to get his, too. The family is expanding! Step one, Jey officially declares for the Rumble! Step two, he’ll win the match! Step three, he’ll whoop Drew McIntyre, “Oldberg” and any WWE World Champion so that the Bloodline WILL be the entire WWE! But first, there’s business with Nakamura. Everyone talks about Shinsuke in the gauntlet. He did good, had to survive and advance, facing one man after another, match after match. Nakamura beat Mysterio, he beat Baron “Big Head” Corbin, and even Daniel Bryan! But as soon as they said, “NOPE, not tonight, Uce!” DONE! Out like a light!

So Jey tells Nakamura to thank them! They let him survive! Now he wants to step up and fight? King of Strong Style? Let’s see how strong you really are then, bruh! You know as soon as you cross the family, you leave the ThunderDome on a stretcher! But here comes Nakamura! And Nakamura has a mic to respond, “If your cousin, Roman Reigns, is the Big Dog, that makes you… His little puppy!” And then Nakamura ROUNDHOUSES Jey down! They have their match after the break, will Jey be able to get this for the Bloodline?

SmackDown returns, the bell rings, and the two fire off forearms! Nakamura backs Jey down, Jey shoves but Nakamura knocks him down! Nakamura drags Jey up, snapmares and drops a knee! Cover, TWO! Nakamura keeps on Jey with a grinding headlock, but Jey powers up and powers out. Things speed up, Jey drops then knocks Nakamura over with an elbow! Jey drops elbows on Nakamura and Nakamura gets to a corner. Jey is after Nakamura at the ropes, scoops him and slams him! Cover, ONE! Jey drags Nakamura up, throws haymakers, but Nakamura body shots back! Nakamura backs Jey down with forearms but Jey hits and whips hard!

Nakamura writhes on the mat but Jey brings him up to whip again. Nakamura reverses, break frees, misses the roundhouse but not the windmill kick! Nakamura follows up with knees into Jey’s shoulders and ribs! Nakamura bumps Jey off buckles, brings him up and suplexes for a gourd buster! Then he throws in more knees! Nakamura stomps Jey to the corner, the ref has Nakamura let off. Nakamura comes back to stomp Jey again, then lets off for a moment. He brings Jey back up into a sleeper hold! Jey endures as Nakamura shifts to a chinlock and grinds him down. Jey fights his way back up, but Nakamura throws knees.

Nakamura puts Jey in the corner to give some Bad Vibrations! But wait, Cesaro is heading to the ring! Cesaro is Nakamura’s tag team partner so maybe he’s showing support. Nakamura dropkicks Jey then POSTS him! The Swiss Cyborg cheers Nakamura on as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Nakamura stomps Jey around at the ropes. Jey goes to a corner, Cesaro is on commentary and Nakamura whips Jey corner to corner. Cesaro knows he has his match with Daniel Bryan later but he wants to cheer his friend and tag partner on. Nakamura runs corner to corner but Jey throws him out! Jey kicks, Nakamura blocks and spins but Jey dragon whips him down! Michael Cole wonders where Cesaro was last week when Nakamura was getting beat up, but Cesaro says Tropicana Field, the new home of the ThunderDome, is very big. He was too late getting here, the cameras cut away and Michael Cole probably left.

Jey puts Nakamura in the ring with some force, then glares at Cesaro before going to Nakamura. Jey ROCKS Nakamura with the uppercut then clubs him down! Jey stomps, Cesaro says HE is entering the Rumble, and Jey stalks Nakamura to a corner. Jey digs his claws in, stomps away, but lets off as the ref counts, only to get around and fire off forearms and stomps! The ref backs Jey off, but Jey comes back to HIP ATTACK in the corner! Jey stomps Nakamura more, the ref counts but Jey stops at 3. Fans give thumbs down on their screens, Jey goes back to a corner, then runs corner to corner again, into the DYNAMIC DROPKICK!

Nakamura fires up as he sees Jey get up. Nakamura KICKS Jey back down, then KICKS away on his legs! Nakamura whips, kitchen sink knees then sliding KNEES to add on! Jey gets up, Nakamura stalks him and runs in but into a boot! Jey boots again but Nakamura spins him into the ropes, SLIDING GERMAN! Cover, TWO! Nakamura grows frustrated but he drags Jey back up. Jey fights off the exploder and throws forearms. Jey shoves, fireman’s carries, and SAMOAN DROPS! Cover, TWO! Cesaro admits Jey is a great wrestler because of their history in tag team competition, but never underestimate Nakamura. Speaking of, Nakamura fires off a strike fest!

Jey ducks the forearm to mule kick then uppercut! Back suplex to a NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Nakamura survives but Jey heads for a corner. Jey sees Nakamura get to a corner so he goes back in and runs in, but into buckles! Nakamura KICKS, climbs up, FLYING KNEE! Cover, TWO! Nakamura fires up and aims from a corner! “YAO~!” SUPERKICK FROM JEY!! Jey heads to a corner, climbs up top, and USO SPLASHES onto knees! Nakamura saves himself and rises as Jey goes to a corner. Nakamura runs in but only gets post! Jey rolls Nakamura, has his feet on ropes, but the ref sees it just in time!

Jey protests that the ref was already counting three! The ref says it’s at his discretion when the bell rings, but Nakamura rolls Jey to a KINSHASA! Cover, Nakamura wins!

Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall

The Swiss Cyborg celebrates with the King of Strong Style! Cesaro is in the Men’s Royal Rumble, gunning for Roman Reigns, will Nakamura look to do the same?

Sonya Deville talks with Adam Pearce.

They’re going over a copy of the title match contract, and she says she’s looked up his past stuff on YouTube. To her, he’s still got it. Pearce appreciates that, but he hasn’t been that guy in a long time, and even that guy couldn’t handle Roman Reigns. Sonya says he shouldn’t think like that. But then in walks Heyman with his copy of the contract. Heyman presents the agreement from the Tribal Chief. Pearce now holds “the opportunity of a lifetime!” Not only does Pearce get to main event the Royal Rumble PPV, he has the opportunity that was never presented to Scrap Daddy.

This opportunity is not only at the Universal Heavyweight Championship, but against the single biggest star in all of sports entertainment, Roman Reigns. And not only that, but the stipulation, “my GOD,” Sonya’s perfume is effective. But that said, this is actually tilted in Pearce’s favor. This is a match under NO DISQUALIFICATIONS! So this is the part of the pitch that it’s somehow for Pearce’s benefit. He’ll still sign it, even though we all know it’s ridiculous. This only means Pearce gets injured, which is exactly what Heyman wants. But Pearce put his name on the contract, will he be able to prepare now that he knows what’s coming?

Jey Uso shouts at referee Charles Robinson backstage!

Three is three! Shoulders were on the mat! How long has he been doing this job?! Yes, Nakamura’s shoulders were on the mat, but Jey’s FEET were on the ROPES! You don’t think Jey knows rules? Charles has to do his job! Didn’t his daughter just get married? He’s about to get fired by The Chief. What? Jey’s veiled threat is clear, is no one safe from Roman’s wrath?

Backstage interview with The Street Profits!

Kayla Braxston asks Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins if it was wise to put their SmackDown Tag Team Championships on the line against Robert Roode & Dolph Ziggler only a week after the vicious attack that injured Ford’s leg? Ford says you can call them a lot of things, like playboys, honorary Vikings, and “two dudes who’re dying to get drawn up as Simpsons characters,” but one thing they cannot, will not and shall not be called is scared. “On March 2nd, in the Year of Our Lord 2020,” the Profits became World Tag Team Champions! For 312 historic days, every single team that stepped up got dealt with! So for them not to accept a challenge would be disrespecting the very legacy they’re trying to build!

There are a bunch of names for the new champions. Roode-Dolph. The Two Aces. The Dirty Dawgs. ED. Whoa, whoa, keep it PG. No, it stands for “Entertainment Dysfunction.” That’s good! And now… Champions. But you best believe the Profits will run it back! It ain’t no rerun, fam. What they did to Ford had him limping for a minute. But when the sequel happens, they’ll drop bodies like they’re entering the Blood House. Tell ’em why, fam. Because the Profits are UP, even though they’re down right now. And #WeWantTheSmoke!

Roman Reigns talks Apollo Crews!

“You’ve gotta believe it. It’s all about control.” If Apollo doesn’t get it, then who will? Understood? Apollo does believe. Heyman returns and has the contract “sign, sealed and delivered.” Roman allows Apollo to stay and watch this and learn from it. The stipulation is No Disqualifications. Pearce signed? Yes. Well Roman chooses not to sign. He never wanted No DQ, never said he wanted No DQ. He wants it as… a LAST MAN STANDING MATCH.

What?! But Adam Pearce will never go for that! Oh he will. Because Heyman will make him. Heyman needs to tell Pearce that they’re going to sign this in the ring tonight. And then it’ll be considered “Handled.” Roman continues to talk with Apollo about how this is about control. Is Roman going to control this entire situation so it plays out how he wants it?

Natalya w/ Tamina VS Liv Morgan w/ Ruby Riott & Billie Kay!

The two second-generation superstars ditched the Femme Fatale and became a duo themselves, but now Billie’s hopped on a new bandwagon! Will she be able to help the Riott Squad keep things on track? Or will this mismatched trio fall apart before it gets going?

Billie joins commentary and the bell rings. Liv and Natty tie up, go around, and Natty puts Liv on the ropes. The ref counts, Natty lets off and shoves Liv. Liv pushes back! Liv counters the punch to a headlock, Natty powers out but Liv dodges and huricanranas! Billie cheers Liv on as she runs in and back body blocks Natty in a corner! Liv whips, Natty reverses but Liv stops herself and elbows back. They knuckle lock, Natty pushes and turns Liv, then throws her up and over. Liv lands on her feet to monkey flip! Both women are down but they spring up! Natty trips Liv, Liv pushes back and wheelbarrows, but Natty makes it a STUNGUN!

Billie and Ruby are worried but Billie says to walk it off. Natty fires off on Liv in the corner then tells the ref to shut up. “You think this is a joke, Liv?!” Natty pushes Liv, drags her up, and snap suplexes! And then KICKS Liv in the back! Liv crawls, Natty brings her back up but Liv resists the suplex to cradle counter! TWO, and Natty LARIATS! Cover, TWO! Billie cheers Liv on more but Natty brings Liv up to a Canadian rack and backbreaker stretch! Natty tells Billie to shut up as she jams Liv harder. Liv fights with elbows, gets to ropes and then the apron. Natty throws a haymaker but Liv hits back! Liv slingshots and sunset flips, TWO!

Liv kicks low, front kicks then enziguris! Natty goes to a corner, Billie cheers Liv on again, and Liv runs in to SHINING WIZARD! Liv stomps away on Natty in the corner, the ref counts and Liv lets off at 4. Natty throws Liv into buckles! Then DISCUS LARIAT! Billie panics as Natty covers, TWO! Billie shouts as Natty tries for the Sharpshooter, and Liv cradle counters, TWO!! LIV BREAKER! Cover, TWO!! Natty survives and Billie protests. Tamina is there and Billie gets a little too close. Tamina gets after Billie and Billie says she didn’t do anything. Billie gets in the ring?! And in everyone’s way! Natty rolls Liv up!! Natty wins!!

Winner: Natalya, by pinfall

Billie realizes what happened and she apologizes, but still says the ref wasn’t counting right earlier. Will Billie ever get it right on SmackDown?

Rey Mysterio w/ Dominik Mysterio VS King Corbin!

The moment the King of Lucha was eliminated from the gauntlet by the King of Strong Style last week, the Lone Wolf King attacked them both! Corbin added insult to injury but now Rey wants payback! Will Rey trump the King of the Ring on the road to the Royal Rumble?

SmackDown returns as Corbin goes to the ring and Dominik joins commentary. The bell rings, Mysterio and Corbin circle and approach. Rey slides under, Corbin gets him with a choke grip but the choke slam is turned into a huricanrana! Rey rams Corbin in a corner but Corbin whips him away into buckles and then CLOBBERS him! Corbin mocks Dominik on commentary then puts Rey in a corner. Corbin ties an arm up on the ropes, throws body shots then throws haymakers. Rey goes to the other corner, Corbin stalks him and back suplexes high and hard! Cover, ONE! Corbin is annoyed already and he drags Rey up for another back suplex, only for Rey to counter with a BULLDOG!

Rey goes after Corbin but Corbin knees low and slides Rey out! Corbin slides out to then CLOBBER Rey again! Corbin stares Dominik down as the ring count starts. Dominik stands up but Corbin shoves him down! Corbin says Dominik’s not going to do anything to cost Rey and then he puts Rey in to cover, TWO! Corbin keeps Rey in the ring, brings him around to choke on ropes and taunt Dominik at the same time. Dominik say she’s going to let Rey fight his fight because he trusts in him. Corbin drags Rey up, talks some smack, then runs to DECK Rey with a right hand! Corbin says Dominik’s only good as a cheerleader, but then Rey gets up to dropkick the legs out!

Rey goes to a corner, climbs up top and leaps, seated senton! And then a springboard, but into Corbin’s arms! Corbin pops Rey up to a fireman’s carry but Rey sits up to rain down rights! Rey spins and ranas Corbin onto ropes! Dial it up, DEEP SIX!! Cover, TWO!! Corbin is furious as Rey survives! Rey crawls to a corner and gets to his feet. Dominik says he’s learned resilience from his father, and Rey dodges Corbin. Corbin slides out, in but into a boot! Rey runs, slides, but Corbin ducks under to throw an elbow! Dominik stands up again and Corbin taunts him again. Corbin puts Rey in then SUCKER PUNCHES Dominik! But Rey 619’s Corbin at the apron!

Rey keeps Dominik calm and out of the ring but then Corbin shoves Rey into Dominik! END OF DAYS!! Cover, Corbin wins!

Winner: King Corbin, by pinfall

The Wolf King used father and son against each other quite literally and he took the win from them! Will he continue to play on the “family drama” as the Royal Rumble approaches?

Adam Pearce comes across Paul Heyman in the hallway.

Has Roman signed the contract? Heyman says there’s a bit of a wrinkle. No, Roman hasn’t signed the contract. But Heyman says it’s because Roman agreed with Pearce’s concerns. What does that say to the WWE management and the fans to deliver a No DQ match as the main event of the Royal Rumble for the WWE Universal Championship and Adam Pearce’s return to wrestling? No DQ is not enough! Where is Heyman going with this? Roman VS Pearce, at the Royal Rumble, LAST MAN STANDING. What is with these people?! Oh~ Pearce wonders who that favors. Well Heyman isn’t really into spoilers.

Heyman says Pearce can take his time because they can address this in the ring later tonight. Heyman will leave Pearce to his thoughts, and considers this business “handled.” Will Pearce do what Roman wants?

Rey and Dominik talk backstage.

Rey wants Dominik to calm down but Dominik says he’s been fighting giants like Corbin his entire career. Now, NOW Rey backs down? Rey didn’t back down, he’s being smart. He suggests Dom do the same. You don’t pick a fight without a plan. Corbin has been a WWE United States Champion, Mr. Money in the Bank and King of the Ring. He’s even a former Golden Gloves boxer! Dom doesn’t care about what Corbin’s done! Well if Dom wants to take care of Corbin, Rey knows just the guy to talk to. Who is it that will give the Mysterios the upper hand on the Wolf King?

SmackDown presents Bayley’s brand new talk show!

DING DONG, HELLO~! Bayley walks in through the door, has an arm chair and a plaque commemorating her 380 day reign as SmackDown Women’s Champion. She welcomes us to HER talk show, which is already bigger than Marvel’s WandaVision. Now let’s welcome the EST of WWE, Bayley’s first guEST ever, Bianca Belair! Bianca makes her entrance and joins Bayley in the ring, and Bayley insists she go through the door. Ring the bell, too. DING DONG, who could that be? Bayley, c’mon. Bayley opens the door and lets Bianca in. Bianca then takes the arm chair and Bayley says that’s her. Well she has good taste, this is very comfortable.

Bayley would take the stool meant for guests, but y’know what? With the Women’s Rumble match, Bayley will probably be in it for a full hour so she might as well get her legs stronger now. Bayley congratulates Bianca on her WWE Chronicle premiering on the WWE Network on January 24th! And after everyone sees it, there will be so many Bianca Belair believers. Here’s a special sneak peek! It was when Bayley beat Bianca about a month ago. Oh, sorry, that wasn’t the right footage. Bayley says move on from that and go to the hard hitting questions.

Why does Bianca call herself the EST? It is her nickname based on her accomplishments in various things, such as track & field, sports, school- But those are all things from before the WWE. Isn’t that disrespectful to those that built the division? Bianca asks Bayley why Bianca’s confidence threaten Bayley so much? Bayley is mad at a nickname when Bianca doesn’t even brag, she’s just being herself. So when Bianca says she’s the strongEST, fastEST- Wait, hold on, doesn’t that make Bayley the best now? She beat Bianca in that match! And was a champion for 380 days. Bianca tells Bayley to take her talk show and go put on some dusty go and give Bianca a rematch right now.

Bayley knows Bianca is just trying to play mind games, but she’s not falling for it. She has nothing to prove. But Bayley has an idea! We can figure out who is the superior with an obstacle course! Yes! Imagine it! The Ultimate Athlete Obstacle Course Challenge! YES! Oh wow, really? Bianca can’t even argue with that, challenge accepted! Bayley has her EST, but there ain’t no way she can whoop Bianca. Now ding dong dat! Will Bianca prove it to Bayley and the world that she is then, now and forever THE E S T?

Daniel Bryan continues his training with the Alpha Academy!

It was earlier tonight that Bryan and Otis were backstage, and they got those hips moving left and right! Chad Gable has them explode up to their feet, and Kayla comes by. How has this training helped ahead of the Royal Rumble? It’s going great! “The pursuit of excellence” never ends. That’s what Bryan likes about Chad and Otis. And if training with the Alpha Academy makes Bryan even a little bit better, he’s all in. A great attitude to have, but did Bryan’s loss in the gauntlet hurt his confidence? Chad says no negativity. Nakamura is a former Rumble winner, there is no shame in losing to him. Bryan has a lot of respect for Shinsuke, and surely he has that same respect for Bryan.

But Cesaro barges in and says Bryan cannot speak for Nakamura because Bryan is not Nakamura’s friend. But Cesaro is so he will. Cesaro says Nakamura only shook Bryan’s hand was because he felt sorry. It was more a pity handshake. And Bryan would’ve had more of a chance at winning if he trained with someone who could teach him something more than that stupid hip thrust Macarena stuff. Then how about Bryan show Cesaro how that works firsthand later tonight? That is to say, NOW!

Cesaro VS Daniel Bryan!

The Swiss Cyborg won the inaugural Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal but Bryan has never won a battle royal ever! Anywhere! Will Bryan show Cesaro that the Alpha Academy knows what it’s doing?

SmackDown returns and the bell rings! These two tie up, Cesaro headlocks and hits a takeover. Bryan tries to headscissor but Cesaro pushes that off. They stand up, Bryan powers out but Cesaro runs him over! Cover, ONE, but Cesaro keeps Bryan down with another headlock. Bryan fights up, powers out again, and drops to then arm-drag Cesaro to an armlock! Bryan grinds Cesaro down, wrenches to a wristlock, then wrenches more and hits an elbow breaker! Bryan drags Cesaro down to a hammerlock but Cesaro backs him to a corner. The ref counts, Cesaro elbows Bryan with the free arm! Then he throws EuroUppers!

Cesaro whips Bryan corner to corner and EuroUppers again! Cesaro pushes Bryan around, drags him up and wrenches to whip corner to corner. Bryan dodges and Cesaro hits buckles, then Bryan fires off kicks from all sides! Bryan runs corner to corner for a dropkick! Armlock BULLDOG! Bryan keeps on that arm, hammerlocks it and drops knees on it! Bryan pulls on the arm and twists the wrist! Cesaro rolls, gets up but Bryan wrenches. Cesaro scoops and SLAMS Bryan down! Cesaro shakes out the bad arm and he brings Bryan up to shove him to ropes, and CLUB him hard in the back! Cesaro stomps Bryan, drags him up, shove shim again but Bryan ROCKS Cesaro back!

Bryan fires forearms but Cesaro hits a standing STO! Knuckle lock cover, TWO as Bryan bridges! Cesaro goes to put his weight on Bryan but Bryan counters to monkey flip Cesaro into ropes! A rough landing and Cesaro tumbles out of the ring! Bryan goes to a corner, climbs up top and leaps, BIG CROSSBODY! Both men get up and Bryan fires off kicks! The ring count is climbing as Bryan KICKS Cesaro against post! Cesaro ducks the next one and Bryan kicks POST! Bryan goes down, clutching his shin, and SmackDown goes to break!

SmackDown returns again and Cesaro stomps away on Bryan in a corner. Cesaro is after the leg but Bryan scrambles, so Cesaro double stomps Bryan down! Cesaro stomps Bryan’s leg again! Cesaro drags Bryan up but Bryan throws a EuroUpper! Cesaro EuroUppers, Bryan fires off kicks and uppercuts, only for Cesaro to ROCK him! Cesaro whips Bryan corner to corner, Bryan goes up and over but the leg jams! Cesaro runs in but Bryan manages a drop toehold! Bryan PENALTY KICKS Cesaro’s bad arm! Bryan runs back in, tilt-o-whirl and takedown! YES LOCK!! Cesaro endures, moves around, pries free of the hold and stomps Bryan’s legs!

Cesaro gets both legs, for a SWISS SWING! Then a SHARPSHOOTER! Bryan endures as Cesaro sits deep! Bryan crawls, drags himself and Cesaro over, but Cesaro reaches back to get an arm! CROSSFACE! Bryan rolls it over, and gets the arm again! Cesaro holds off the Yes Lock but Bryan fish hooks Cesaro’s face! Bryan gets the YES LOCK! Cesaro reaches, ROPEBREAK! Bryan lets go, but he wrenches to an elbow breaker! Cesaro goes to a corner, Bryan kicks him and puts him up top. Bryan climbs to SUPER- NO! Cesaro blocks the steiner to bring Bryan up and into a TWISTING SUPERPLEX! Cover, TWO!! Bryan survives and Cesaro is furious!

Cesaro gives Bryan EuroUppers, then rains down forearms! Cesaro reels Bryan in, Gotch but Bryan back drops out! Bryan boots from a corner, runs, but into a pop-up, only for Bryan to backslide! TWO and Bryan unleashes a Yes Kick and a BUZZSAW! Cesaro already has a cut on his head so the ref checks. Bryan and Cesaro go to opposite corners and Bryan pops up with Yes fingers, only to run into a POP-UP UPPER! GOTCH NEUTRALIZER!! Cover, Cesaro wins!!

Winner: Cesaro, by pinfall

Incredible! Cesaro beats a Grand Slam Champion in Bryan and is rolling towards the Royal Rumble! Will Bryan’s dream of finally checking off a battle royal win be only dreams?

Backstage interview with Carmella!

The Untouchable and her sommelier, Reginald, are here and Kayla asks her about what she said last week. Mella says she was telling the truth about Sasha Banks. When it comes to natural talent, Sasha can’t touch Mella. Yet here Mella is here, where is Sasha? Why haven’t we seen Sasha back? Oh, of course. It’s because Mella proved she’s better than Sasha in every way. Maybe Sasha’s hiding from Mella. But then Sasha comes out and shoves Mella over! Sasha isn’t hiding from anyone! Reginald keeps this from getting any more physical, and Sasha tells him to tell Mella that they’ll have the title match. So long as Sasha gets at Reggie first! Will Mella agree to this deal at the expense of her assistant?

Apollo Crews VS Sami Zayn!

Both men want after Big E and the WWE Intercontinental Championship, but we saw earlier tonight how Roman Reigns was giving Apollo some pointers. Will Apollo take control and have another shot at the title? Or will he not see the next trip Sami has up his sleeve?

SmackDown returns and Sami makes his entrance, accompanied by his documentary film crew to have evidence of the “Anti-Sami Conspiracy” Sami claims exists in the WWE. Big E is ringside, lounging on a couch and having a fruit salad from is minifridge!? Sami is upset because he never got anything close to that as champion, and as the bell rings, Sami runs into Apollo’s dropkick! Apollo counter punches Sami, whips him to ropes but Sami reverses to knee low. Sami runs, Apollo hits an OVERHEAD THROW! Big E respects that but his version is better. Apollo waistlocks but Sami elbows him away, then dodges to clothesline Apollo out!

Big E says he doesn’t believe in Sami’s conspiracy theories and says he didn’t really need the pep talk Heyman gave him like he gave Apollo on Talking Smack. Sami tells Big E to watch this as he JABS away on Apollo. Sami goes to bump Sami off the desk but Apollo blocks to bump Sami off the desk! Apollo then uses the desk for a MOONSAULT to knock Sami down! Apollo puts Sami in at the count of 8, climbs up top, but Sami trips Apollo up! Apollo hits the mat, Sami stomps Apollo into a corner! Sami digs his boots in, the ref counts and Sami lets off. Apollo staggers, Sami hops up and leaps for a flying elbow! Cover, TWO! Sami keeps on Apollo with another cover, TWO! Another, TWO!

Sami tells his personal camera crew to focus on this as he climbs back up. Sami leaps, Apollo gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX! Both men are down but Sami got folded! Sami goes to a corner, Apollo runs in, blocks a boot, and trophy lifts Sami up to throw him into the buckles! ENZIGURI! Apollo STANDING MOONSAULTS, but onto knees! Sami covers, TWO! Sami dodges Apollo and rolls him up, but the ref sees him grabbing tights! Sami is upset with the ref, similar to Jey and Charles Robinson, but Sami still catches Apollo to an EXPLODER into buckles! Sami goes corner to corner, but Apollo rolls Sami, and has TIGHTS! The ref doesn’t see this one, Apollo WINS!

Winner: Apollo Crews, by pinfall

Did Sami’s cameras get Sami’s butt crack like WWE cameras did? Apollo walks over to the couch, picks up the belt, and grins as he tosses back to Big E. Big E says Apollo can keep coming for it but he won’t touch it again. They’ll see each other down the line, but who wins when the title is back on the line?

Roman Reigns heads to the ring!

The Head of the Table leads the Special Counsel, Paul Heyman, and #MainEventUso to the table that’s waiting in the ring for this contract signing. And then Adam Pearce quietly makes his way out with the official contract. Pearce takes a seat at the table, Roman takes his time circling around the table, and Heyman moves the chair to the head of the table. Roman doesn’t want that chair. He wants the chair Pearce just sat in. Heyman asks Pearce that he give up the chair, but Jey just takes it from Pearce. Roman takes a seat and Heyman helps Pearce into the chair Roman didn’t want.

Roman says Pearce needs to go ahead and sign. Heyman says this sitting around is not good television. Pearce looks at the contract as he holds the pen, and signs it. Heyman smirks at the passive aggressive behavior as he hands Roman his own pent to sign with. Roman signs his name, gives the pen back, and it is done. Roman says that’ll be the last contract Pearce ever signs. Pearce says, “I’ve waited all night for you to do that.” What’s that supposed to mean? Pearce leaves with the contract in hand, goes up the ramp, and then seems to have a problem walking. Pearce says his knee has been bugging the hell out of him all day. An old injury that just creeps up on you at the worst possible time.

But Pearce says it’ll be fine. After all, we all know that standard contracts say the same things. As a WWE Official, Pearce reserves the right to have a substitute, should he not be medically cleared to compete at the Royal Rumble. In fact, Pearce already has one in mind. It’s KEVIN OWENS! Roman sighs, perhaps disappointed he didn’t see this coming. Kevin signs his name to the contract, and it’s all but a given that the Prizefighter is back in the fight! Will Kevin finally #StunTheWorld and end Roman’s reign as Universal Champion?

My Thoughts:

A really good episode for SmackDown, with some interesting developments in the different stories. The story of Roman Reigns and all those related took an expected yet perfectly executed twist. It was clear Adam Pearce wasn’t really going to compete against Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble, but how he tricked them into a trap like that was great. We’re getting another Roman VS Kevin, but now Last Man Standing, and if Jey is in the Royal Rumble, he might have to consider not interfering. And even if he does, maybe Pearce gets involved so that Scrap Daddy at least gets one great moment WWE PPV moment? Or maybe it’ll be Bryan or Nakamura, depending on who wins the Rumble.

Jey VS Nakamura was a good opening match and I was worried Cesaro showing up when he did was going to mean he costs Nakamura. But Cesaro stays on commentary, stays Nakamura’s friend, and yet also stays a bit Heelish as he still talks smack on Bryan, Otis and Gable. Bryan VS Cesaro was a great match, and it was a great surprise to see Cesaro win. It works for both men going towards the Rumble. Bryan wants to win so badly but that alone could be why he’ll lose, and Cesaro needs a little something to keep him afloat. Cesaro really is a great talent, we all know that, but who knows when and where he’ll get the world title nod.

The Profits had a good promo and they’ll eventually have that rematch with the Dirty Dawgs, but who knows if they win it. Natty VS Liv was alright, but Billie was a highlight of the whole thing with her wannabe punk rock outfit and behavior. She did more of a Spider-Man web shooter hand than the rock ‘n’ roll fingers, and then she costs Liv the match, adding more tension to the tenuous friendship. Maybe Billie does something big to make it up to the Riott Squad and that’s how she wins them over. Bayley is great, Bianca is great, and maybe Ding Dong, Hello was being awkward on purpose, but it didn’t quite land. And I don’t think their obstacle course challenge will, either, even if Bianca does an amazing job with it. Just give us a 15 to 20 minute NXT level match on SmackDown with them.

Rey VS Corbin with Dom on the side was good, but I almost thought Dom was going to find a way to Eddie Guerrero Corbin out of the win. I’m very curious as to who Rey is talking about when it comes to dealing with Corbin. I’m thinking it’s Cain Velasquez given the established relationship between him and Rey. Though that does bring up the question of what happened to A) the relationship of Murphy & Aalyah, and B) the Knights of the Wolf King. The former is probably one of those many cases where WWE gave up on it because they couldn’t figure it out. The latter is probably COVID concerns, and then some of the former.

Mella and Sasha had a decent segment, and they set up the obvious rematch. But I really like the idea that Sasha is getting a co-ed match against Reginald. I have a feeling Mella will interfere in return to put Sasha behind the 8 ball for their match. Apollo VS Sami was good as a main event match, but we did not need that much Sami butt cheek… I like that Big E now has a couch and fridge, oddly. Apollo is slowly starting that turn to Heel given what Heyman told him on Talking Smack last week, I’m just waiting for that moment when it’s complete. Then we’re really going to see some stuff from the already athletic and charismatic Apollo and Big E for the workhorse title of the WWE.

My Score: 8.3/10

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!

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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS

Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)

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Up Next

Mitchell’s WWE 205 Live Results & Report! (1/15/21)

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Mitchell’s WWE NXT UK Results & Report! (1/14/21)

Coverage

Andrew’s LIVE TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 1.23.25

NXTNA kicks off the post-Genesis TV with a Live show! Fraxiom defend the NXT Tag Titles on TNA television against The Rascalz!

Published

16 hours ago

January 23, 2025

Andrew Balaz

So we’re gonna be getting Live action for iMPACT for the first time in 8 years! NXTNA should bring some interesting layers with this episode. Fraxion is facing The Rascalz. We could see some stuff with 23 pay off, we could maybe get a Cora Jade appearance and who knows what else we’ve got. Genesis could’ve been the beginning of something big, but at least we make sure Hendry Mania can run wild as the TNA World Champ!

We're kicking off the night with NEW TNA World Champion @joehendry!

WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/EkIqqcvwIi pic.twitter.com/jORQS6swtu

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) January 24, 2025

Ratings:

Rosemary, Heather & Ash by Elegance vs Masha Slamovich & Spitfire: Ash wins via Victory Roll – ** 1/2
JDC & Moose w/Alisha Edwards vs The Hardyz: Jeff wins via Swanton Bomb – ***
NXT Tag Team Championships: Fraxiom (c) vs The Rascalz: Fraxiom retain via Spanish Phoenix – *** 1/4
TNA World Championship: Joe Hendry (c) vs Matt Cardona: Hendry retains via Standing Ovation – *** 1/4

Results:

Oh look, Joe Hendry comes out to kick off the Live episode. Hendry says he’ll be a fighting champion and face anyone at anytime, so Santino’s music hits and we may get a surprise very soon. Oh nevermind, it’s Matt Cardona. If this was supposed to be a big reveal I don’t think it came over well.

Rosemary, Heather & Ash by Elegance vs Masha Slamovich & Spitfire

Jody and Ash start, Ash gets in a cocky slap but then a few strikes and a T-Bone suplex lead to tagging in Dani and a few assisted Slam moves and we see a near fall. Ash retreats to her corner, tags in Heather, Heather is afraid of Dani so she blind tags Rosemary. Spitfire do some tandem stuff on Rosemary and the Demon Assassin finally slips a move from Jody, shoves Jody into her corner, Heather tries to blind tag but Rosemary grabs Heather, Ash calls a timeout to explain to Rosemary that they’re a team and tags herself in. A few shortcuts that the ref conveniently can’t see and Ash tags in Rosemary cleanly. Rosemary throws Jody around, Exploder Suplex for two, and Ash tags in, hits a Snap Suplex, tries to go after Dani and Masha but Masha pops her and Jody hits a Codebreaker to tag in Masha.

Masha comes out hot and beats the hell out of Heather and Rosemary. Masha tried Requiem on Heather, but Rosemary hits the Scorpion Deathdrop, Dani Shotgun kicks Rosemary, Satellite DDT from Ash takes out Dani, Jody takes out Ash, Heather hits a John Woo Dropkick to send Jody crashing to the outside. After the signature spam, Dani gets back on the apron, Masha tags her in and Dani is taking Ash to Suplex City. Cora Jade’s music hits in the middle of the match and she hands a folder to Masha with her picture in it, like Masha used to do. Ash takes advantage of the Cora distraction and Victory Rolls Dani for the flash win. Cora makes her intentions known and the match was fine.

Northern Useless Armoury comes out to look pathetic and Josh talks. Sinner and Saint are about as impressive as a wet fart running down your legs in the middle of summer. They are pathetic and that makes this whole heel turn look worthless. Jabroni squad says Josh can’t leave and attack him. EY hits the ring to make a save, and cut an obvious promo to make a tag match. The crowd is mostly comatose, Sinner and Saint look stupid, have done nothing, and have terrible names.

JDC & Moose w/Alisha Edwards vs The Hardyz

System attacks immediately, the bell just rings, but the Hardyz reverse the Irish Whip spot, stack em in the corner and Poetry in Motion while still wearing the belt so he does the Splash version. Matt does the Delete Corner Face Smashes to JDC and turns it into the pull out of the corner Powerbomb. Extreme Elbow from Matt, Matt goes for the Twist, but JDC shoves off, Lish paws at the ankle and Moose attacks him while the ref is trying to figure out who to look at. Moose tags himself in, beats on Matt and then a few quick tags keep Matt isolated in the corner. JDC with a nice Strong Whip and Splash, tags back in Moose and Moose goes for the Camel Clutch to try and keep the pressure on but Matt starts to fight back. Moose doesn’t lose too much momentum, takes out Jeff, rocks Matt with an Uppercut into Senton and JDC tries Down and Dirty but misses! Simultaneous tags and classic Jeff Hardy offense gets a near fall that JDC has to break up.

Jeff dispatches with JDC, Moose misses Lights Out, Twist of Fate, goes for the Swanton but JDC cuts him off, Matt Twist of Fates JDC, Moose tries to pull Jeff off but gets Headbutt down and Swanton Bomb on Moose for the win! Jeff gonna go for the X Division Title now?

Twenty Three stuff happens on the tron before a commercial break, coming back Sami hits the ring calling out 23. Steph De Lander comes out to show she’s 23 because she won the Digital Media Title in the Divorce. But Sami can meet her new boyfriend, Mance Warner!

NXT Tag Team Championships: Fraxiom (c) vs The Rascalz

Axiom with a bit of World of Sport counters to the Arm Wringer, kicks Trey in the teeth, tags in Frazer and he rips across the ropes and kick Trey again, but Trey does turn things around. ACS Rush from The Rascalz. Quick tandem offense from Fraxiom with interwoven Forearm Shivers and a near fall. Axiom locks in a Sleeper and tries to ground Trey. Trey tries to fight back up but eats a Back Elbow. Tandem offense again, Double Superkicks from Fraxiom forces Wentz to break things up a little. Trey has been isolated for a while and Axiom is just keeping a solid Armbar but Trey fights up, manages to get away and hits a Rebound Switch Suplex.

Simultaneous tag and Wentz and Frazer go back and forth. Wentz has the early advantage, Knee Lift into the Rolling Snapmare Shining Wizard then the Running Corkscrew Moonsault. Axiom breaks up the Wentz offense, Fraxiom double teams Trey and takes him out with an Avalanche Total Elimination. More tandem spots from Fraxiom which end with a Brainbuster and Superkick combo but only two! Trey manages to get Frazer out of the ring, Wentz with the Back Handspring Knee Lift but everyone is down and a little gassed. Axiom tries a German, Wentz shrugs him off, Axiom Kips Up into a Superkick, Wentz goes for the UFO Cutter but eats the Superkick. Rascalz tandem Superkicking people out of the Sky, STREET SWEEPER for two! Cheeky Nandos, but Wes Lee hits the ring to distract the ref, Tyson and Tyriek attack, Spanish Fly into Phoenix Splash finish and Fraxion retain!

Solid match that hopefully leads to more stuff. Santana comes down to cut a typical man of the people babyface promo. But the biggest pop of the night (not counting the Hardyz) is when Mustafa Ali’s music hits! Ali is back! He says he signed with TNA.

Tessa comes out to cut a promo, Tully is in the crowd and cuts a decent anti-San Antonio promo. Not as good as Charles Barkley, until she mentions fat women. She’s getting a visceral negative reaction, and it’s pretty great. She basked in the heat and decent promo.

TNA World Championship: Joe Hendry (c) vs Matt Cardona

Slow start, shove from Joe so Matt powders and then they go into Arm Wringer World of Sport stuff, but still mostly posturing. At least the crowd is engaged. Cardona feints the Test of Strength, kicks Hendry and shoves him into the corner with Chops, but Joe no sells and lights up Cardona until Cardona sells to a different corner to hit a sneaky Forearm. Rope Run, Leapfrog spot which ends with Hendry hitting a Knee Lift into the Stalling Suplex. Cardona side steps Hendry after the Suplex and then hits a Wrecking Ball Dropkick before using his ripped t-shirt to choke Hendry and just gets yelled at a little. Cardona Crossbody from the steps, but Hendry catches him, throws him on his shoulders and Attitude Adjustment on the apron. Joe goes for another but Matt claws the eyes and whips Hendry into the steps.

Commercial happens and as soon as we’re back, Hendry hits a Sunset Flip into Locomotion Cradle spots before Cardona hits the Diving Polish Hammer to stall Hendry. Cardona locks in a Guillotine, but Hendry powers up and Vertical Suplexes out of it! A few right hands, Lariat, Sack of Shit into the Kip Up and the turn to the camera! Standing Ovation is being called, Cardona fights it off and hits the Flashback for a near fall. Reboot connects from Cardona, he tries another and gets caught, goes for a Powerbomb but Cardona Throat Chop, Missile Dropkick, Snap DDT for a near fall! Radio Silence attempts from Cardona, Hendry ducks it, Running Boot kills the referee, and Hendry hits a Pop Up Powerbomb for what would’ve been the win, but no ref. Cardona hits the Low Blow and then wanders over to the title, very slowly, looks to use it but OH MAH GAHD MAGGLE ITS JBLS! Clothesline from Hell hits Cardona and Hendry stares down JBL. Cardona recovers enough to hit Hendry with the title as Hendry was distracted by JBL existing.

Cardona tries the title again, Standing Ovation, 1-2-3.

Overall Score: 6.5/10

The effort to make this show special was apparent. Wes Lee, Tyriek and Tyson interfering, Cora Jade costing the faces a match, Mance Warner, JBL on a Live TNA, Mustafa Ali returning and Hendry bookending the show is good stuff. Lapsed viewers or WWE fans got to see a lot of people they recognize, sure Steph De Lander’s whole explanation was moronic, Cardona was a fart in church and JDC not eating the pinfall seems silly unless it truly does lead to a Jeff Hardy X Division challenge. But the effort was all there.

There were no real production hiccups or audio problems, the crowd was receptive to the important things, Tessa got booed out of the building but steered into it and embraced the hate. Now she just needs to walk out with a Real American Beer or have Hulk and Tully escort her out for Slammiversary or BFG, and it will truly just steer so hard into the skid people might pop for the acknowledgement.

But it was a fun show, yes the Josh stuff is stupid. The Knockouts aren’t in a great spot (but the NXT help will bolster that), and JBL is still confusing…but the show was entertaining.

About Chairshot Radio Network

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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

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All Shows On Demand

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Coverage

Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (1/23/25)

EPISODE 100!

Published

20 hours ago

January 23, 2025

Steven Mitchell

Honor Club hits a new landmark!

ROH on Honor Club hits Episode 100! And to make this big deal a bigger deal, QT Marshall challenges Komander for the ROH World TV Championship! Will QT bring the DOOM~?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

ROH World Television Championship: Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes VS QT Marshall; Komander wins and retains the title.
Leila Grey VS Marti Belle; Leila wins.
The Outrunners VS Jon Cruz & Rosario Grillo; The Outrunners win.
The Beast Mortos VS Lord Crewe; Mortos wins.
ROH Rewind – ROH World Tag Team Championships: Christopher Daniels & Matt Sydal VS CIMA & Shingo Takagi; Daniels & Sydal win and retain the titles.
Taya Valkyrie w/ Deonna Purrazzo VS Lady Frost; Taya wins.
The Gates of Agony VS Jay Lucas & Terry Yaki; Gates of Agony win.
Katsuyori Shibata VS Shane Taylor w/ Shane Taylor Promotions; Shibata wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Mark Briscoe speaks.

“Mark Briscoe here, ROH pioneer, one half of #DemBoys, the baddest tag team of all time, baby! Former 13-time ROH Tag Team Champions. Hey, here we are, ROH episode 100. Here’s to 100 more, and then 100 more, and then 100 more, and then 100 more! HAAAH!” The Sussex County Chicken has the right idea. What will be in store for ROH after making it to this milestone?

ROH World Television Championship: Komander w/ Alex Abrahantes VS QT Marshall!

If we’re talking Episode 100 of ROH TV here on Honor Club, then of course this title needs to be defended! Though if you were to ask “Big Doom QT,” he’d say he’s the reason this episode is a big deal. Will QT at least back up that ego with actions? Or will the Commander of the Skies continue to command respect?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is the Face of ROH TV!

The fans chant “QT SUCKS! QT SUCKS!” QT gets on the corner to show off with a backflip, but the fans say, “You Still Suck!” QT skips the Code of Honor, the bell rings, and QT circles with Komander. They tie up, QT waistlocks, and he SLAMS Komander! The fans boo but QT flips Komander, only for Komander to do a 360. QT is annoyed, he just wanted 180. QT flips Komander over again, but Komander kips up and arm-drags hard! The fans fire up as Komander has the double wristlock. QT is annoyed again and he fights up. QT powers out, but Komander slips under the lariat! Komander UP KICKS, then he KICKS away on QT’s leg!

QT ROCKS Komander with a forearm! Komander goes to a corner, the fans boo, but QT whips. Komander goes up, headscissors, but QT puts Komander on the apron. Komander feints high to RAM QT low, then he slingshots up and over. Komander ducks ‘n’ dodges, wheelbarrows, but QT counters with a back suplex. Komander lands out, waistlocks, and he shoves QT to ropes. QT bucks the O’Conner, but then Komander slips around the lariat to sunset flip! QT flails to stay up, and he grabs Komander with both hands! QT YANKS Komander up, but Komander RANAS QT away! The fans fire up and Komander runs in, but only gets buckles!

QT runs up, but into a SUPERKICK! Komander goes up to CROSSBODY, but QT catches him! QT shakes his head, swings Komander around, BACKBREAKER to FLATLINER! Did QT just copy the Lethal Combination? The fans boo while Komander is dazed, but QT drags Komander up to TOSS him out. QT goes out to then bring Komander to railing, and he CHOPS! Komander is stinging but the fans rally up. QT brings Komander around, pushes him to the apron, then has him against a corner. Komander ducks and the CHOP hits POST! QT clutches that hand, but he still CHOPS Komander! QT puts Komander in the ring, then storms up to the apron.

QT steps in for a springboard ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Komander is still in this and the fans rally up. Abrahantes coaches Komander and he rallies the fans. QT drags Komander up but Komander RAMS him in the ropes, then fires body shots! Komander CHOPS, then whips. QT reverses and POP-UP FOREARMS! Komander staggers, QT brings him around, and QT suplexes. FALCON ARROW, then a LIONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Komander survives and QT is furious! QT clamps on with a chinlock, but he claws at the mask! The ref reprimands and the fans boo, but QT stops at 4. QT brings Komander to a corner and hoists him up.

The fans rally again while QT climbs up after Komander. QT CLAWS the mask again! Komander fires elbows, QT steps back, but then QT pulls Komander back. QT CHOPS Komander into the Tree of Woe! The fans boo but QT runs up, only for Komander to BOOT him while upside-down! QT staggers, but he comes back, only for Komander to sit up! QT POSTS himself, then falls to the floor! Komander runs, goes up and up, ESCALARA MOONSAULT! Direct hit and the fans fire up! Komander puts QT in the ring, aims again, springboard and CROSSBODY! Komander keeps moving, he ducks ‘n’ dodges to roll and FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO!

QT survives and Komander grows frustrated, but Abrahantes coaches him. The fans rally up, and Komander has QT in the drop zone. Komander goes corner to corner, goes up and up, MOONSAULT but into BOOTS! QT takes Komander out of the skies, and he calls for DDP’s inheritance! DIAMOND- NO, Komander backslides QT! TWO!! QT escapes, Komander dodges, and Komander springboards, into a DIAMOND CUTTER!! Cover, TWO!! Komander survives and QT is shocked! The fans fire up and sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE~!” QT goes out and he talks trash on Cincinnati. QT grabs the belt! The fans boo but QT goes to the apron!

The ref stops QT, and Abrahantes snatches the belt back! QT is pissed, but Komander springboards! RAN- NO! QT stops that, and he pops Komander up, only for Komander to SUNSET BOMB!! Cover, TWO!! QT survives but Komander hurries to the apron! The fans fire up again as Komander climbs. Komander tightrope walks, but Komander rolls out to the ramp! Komander just changes course, 450- NO, QT moves again! Komander rolls through the splash, but QT runs up to BOOT him! The fans boo but QT looms over Komander. QT brings Komander up and reels him in. QT lifts to a Canadian Rack, but Abrahantes says don’t do it!

The ref also says stop, so QT drops Komander. QT BODY BLOWS Abrahantes! The fans boo more, that was uncalled for! QT just grins and soaks up the heat. But Komander uses Abrahantes as a step to MEXICAN DESTROYER on the ramp!! Komander hurries to go up, up, and FLYING DESTROYER!! QT is back in the drop zone and Komander climbs! The fans are thunderous for CIELITO LINDO!! Cover, Komander wins!

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

QT tried to bring The Doom, but he got a bit full of himself. Well, what else is new? But wait, Lee Johnson walks out here. Big Shotty applauds Komander’s win, but says he’s got next. Komander says he’s game. When and where will we see these two fight for the spotlight here on Honor Club?

Athena speaks.

“Hello, Minions. Now I know you weren’t about to celebrate my show, the 100th episode of ROH on Honor Club without me, the most important part. The Fallen Goddess, the Minion Overlord, the American Joshi, the inspiration to every division, the ROH Gatekeeper, but most importantly, the Forever ROH Women’s World Champion. Now, I know I’ve been away on business, the Athena World~ Tour~! I know it was amazing, it was beautiful, and still your Forever Champion, Athena, So very soon, I will be back to show the world why I am the most dominant champion in all of pro-wrestling, and why it is my show! HAHAHAHA! See you soon.”

ROH Rewind – ROH World Tag Team Championships: Christopher Daniels & Matt Sydal VS CIMA & Shingo Takagi!

To honor the Fallen Angel retiring from in-ring action, we flashback to December 22, 2006, and the ROH International Challenge! Daniels & Sydal took on the Dragon Gate duo, did things get Crazy MAX? Or did Daniels & Sydal defend their titles as well as homefield?

The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who wins the International Challenge!

The Code of Honor is upheld, the teams sort out, and Daniels starts against Shingo. The fans rally up and the two circle. Daniels and Shingo feel things out, tie up, then Shingo powers Daniels to a corner. The ref counts, Shingo lets off slowly, but Daniels keeps cool. They reset and feel things out again. They knuckle lock, break, then tie up again. Shingo waistlocks, and Shingo SLAMS Daniels down. Shingo facelocks but Daniels slips out to wrench the arm. Shingo rolls, Daniels keeps on the arm, but Shingo rolls again. Shingo trips Daniels, steps through and has the toehold. Daniels endures and the fans rally up.

Daniels moves around, turns over, and he trips Shingo to then get the headlock. Shingo fights up, powers out, but Daniels RAMS shoulders! Shingo roars and the fans fire up! Daniels runs, he RAMS Shingo again, but Shingo rebounds to RUN Daniels over! Things keep moving, and Shingo RUNS Daniels over again! Daniels stays low, then hurdles, but Shingo still RUNS him over! The fans are torn while Shingo flexes. Shingo drags Daniels up, reels him in, but Daniels fights the suplex. Shingo fires body shots, suplexes, but Daniels lands out! Daniels ducks ‘n’ dodges, then he flying SHOULDER TACKLES! Down goes Shingo!

Daniels wrenches an arm, tags Sydal, and they mug Shingo. Sydal wrenches to wristlock, then he slips around to arm-drag! Sydal has the armlock but Shingo endures. Shingo fights up, powers Sydal to ropes, but the ref counts. Shingo lets off, and he CHOPS! The fans fire up, Shingo whips, but Sydla reverses. Sydal leaps, but into Shingo’s arms! Sydal fights free, then arm-drags! Sydal RAMS Shingo, Shingo rebounds, but into a WHEEL KICK! Shingo tags in Cima! The fans fire up and Cima circles with Sydal. They tie up, Sydal waistlocks but Cima switches. Sydal switches, nelsons, and hip tosses!

Sydal rolls to bring Cima up but Cima arm-drags, RAMS, and then he avoids the dropkick! Sydal avoids the elbow drop! Tag to Daniels and Cima gets to his feet! The fans rally up as Cima and Daniels circle. They tie up but Cima trips Daniels. Things speed up, Daniels hurdles but Cima leaps over. Daniels arm-drags! Cima arm-drags! Daniels arm-drags again! Then Daniels avoids Cima! The fans fire up and Daniels cheers himself on. But then he turns around into an arm-drag! The fans fire up as Cima arm-drags, then he blocks a kick! Cima spins Daniels, throws him down, and SCRAPES Daniels’ face! Then DOUBLE STOMPS him in the chest!

The fans fire up and Cima looms over Daniels. NECK TWIST! Tag to Shingo and Shingo stomps Daniels around. Shingo snapmares Daniels and clamps on a chinbar with a chicken wing. Daniels endures, so Shingo ELBOWS him in the shoulder! Shingo stomps Daniels more, then drags him onto ropes. Shingo CHOKES Daniels, stops as the ref counts, and he CHOPS Daniels on the back! Shingo scoops and SLAMS, then covers, ONE!! Daniels is tough but Shingo brings him to the corner. Tag to Cima, they mug Daniels, then double whip. They DOUBLE SHOULDER, and double flex! The fans fire up and Cima stomps Daniels.

Cima keeps Daniels from Sydal with a chinlock, and then shifts to a chinbar and chicken wing. Cima throws down elbow after elbow, then he stands Daniels up. Daniels fires body shots, but Cima CLAWS the eyes! Daniels flounders to the ropes but Cima stalks him. Cima stomps Daniels while the fans duel, but Daniels fires body shots! Cima CLUBS Daniels down! Cima SLAPS Daniels on the top of his head! Cima stands Daniels up again but Daniels fires shots, Cima whips, Daniels reverses, but Cima ducks ‘n’ dodges, only to run into a tilt-o-whirl BACKBREAKER! Tag to Sydal, he and Daniels mug Cima!

Sylda stomps Cima, snapmares him, and has the motorcycle stretch. Cima endures as Sydal pulls those arms back. Shingo storms in but the ref stops him from going after Sydal. Cima fights up but Sydal snapmares him back down. Sydal drags Cima back with chicken wings, and Daniels tags in. The champs mug Cima more, and then they double scoop SLAM! Daniels scoops Sydal to SLAM him into Cima! Cover, TWO! Daniels brings Cima up, ROCKS him, then whips. CALF KICK! Cover, Shingo breaks it! The fans are torn but Daniels tags Sydal. Daniels lifts Cima, Sydal springboards, ELBOW DROP BACK SUPLEX COMBO! Cover, Shingo breaks it again!

The ref reprimands but the fans rally up. Sydal stomps Cima, drags him up, and then scoops. Sydal SLAMS Cima, goes up a corner, and calls his shot! CANNONBALL, but Cima moves! Sydal crashes hard, and then Cima adds DOUBLE STOMPS! The fans fire up while Cima keeps Sydal from Daniels. Tag to Shingo, and Cima feeds Sydal to a BOOT! Sydal flops to the apron but Shingo drags him in. Shingo stands on Sydal at the ropes, steps off as the ref counts, but then stands on Sydal again! Shingo steps off again, CLUBS Sydal, then whips Sydal to ropes. Fireman’s carry into a SWINGING SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO!

Shingo keeps Sydal down with a HALF CRAB! Sydal endures, but Shingo drags him back for the stepover! Shingo has the toehold, and then he pulls on Sydal’s hair! The ref reprimands, Sydal finds the ROPEBREAK, and Shingo lets go. Shingo drags Sydal up to CLUB him! Sydal hobbles, Shingo CHOPS him! Shingo tags Cima and Cima brings Sydal around to RAM into the ropes! Cima holds Sydal up, Shingo runs, LEAP FROG ATTACK! Now Shingo holds Sydal up and Cima climbs, DRAPING DOUBLE STOMPS! The fans fire up while Sydal flounders out of the ring. Shingo drags Sydal up to RAM him into the railing!

Shingo brings Sydal around, puts him in, and Cima covers, TWO! Sydal survives but he flounders for his corner. Cima clamps onto Sydal with a full nelson! Sydal endures, the fans rally, and Sydal fights up. Cima powers Sydal to the corner, Shingo holds him against the buckles, and Cima lets go to run and DROPKICK Sydal in the butt! The fans fire up while Sydal falls in a heap! Cima drags Sydal out to YANK the leg! Sydal clutches that knee, rolls for his corner, but Cima stays in his way! Cima digs his knee into the knee, and he pulls on that leg! Sydal endures this modified Calf Killer, but then Cima BITES that leg!

The ref reprimands, Cima stops biting so he can stomp Sydal. The fans rally up, but Cima grabs the bad leg to GROUND DRAGON SCREW! Sydal hobbles up to CHOP! Cima KICKS the bad leg! Cima mocks the pain while Shingo gets cheap shots in. Cima STOMPS the bad leg! Cima again mocks Sydal, then stomps the leg again. Cima says they are the new champions! The fans fire up but Sydal is headed for his corner! Cima drags Sydal back, tags Shingo, and Shingo suplexes high and hard! Cover, TWO! Shingo clamps onto Sydal with a chinlock. Sydal endures, fights up, and he fires body shots!

Sydal is free, he runs, but into a SLEEPER! Shingo SWINGS Sydal to then SLAM him down! The fans fire up and Shingo drags Sydal up. Tag to Cima, and Cima BLASTS Daniels! Shingo ROCKS Sydal, the ref keeps Daniels out, and Blood Generation double whip, to DOUBLE SPINEBUSTER, and then they wheelbarrow Sydal for a CODE BREAKER! Shingo hauls Sydal back up, Cima hits a CUTTER! Shingo covers, but Daniels breaks it! The fans fire up but Shingo stands on Sydal’s leg. Sydal fires body shots but Shingo CLUBS Sydal! Sydal CHOPS, Shingo fires a forearm, repeat! Shingo fires a flurry, then waistlocks.

Sydal fights the German Suplex, and makes it a DDT! Cima goes up, leaps, but into a DROPKICK! Hot tag to Daniels! Daniels rallies on CIma and Shingo with elbows and LARIATS! Daniels sends Cima into Shingo, then STO DDT COMBO!! The fans fire up and Daniels climbs! CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO!! Daniels whips, Shingo reverses, but Daniels dodges to CLUB and TOSS Shingo! Daniels goes to the apron but Shingo YANKS him down! Shingo goes up, but Sydal BLASTS Shingo! Sydal builds speed but Cima trips him! Slingshot SENTON for Sydal, and a DIVE for Daniels! The fans fire up, but now Sydal is climbing!

Sydal aims to ARIHARA MOONSAULT them all! The fans are thunderous for “ROH! ROH!” in Hartford! Sydal rises and he puts Cima in. Sydal O’Conner Rolls, TWO! Cima shoves Sydal, but Sydal slips around, SLICE! Cover, TWO! Cima survives, and Shingo hauls Sydal up! Shingo CHOPS, then whips. Sydal reverses, runs in, but into a BOOT! Shingo goes up, but Sydal jumps! Shingo blocks the Super Steiner!! And he holds Sydal upside-down for Cima to BASEMENT DROPKICK! The fans are thunderous again as Shingo hauls Sydal up. Shingo scoops but Sydal fights free! Sydal puts Shingo in a corner, runs up, but Shingo dodges!

Sydal goes up and SUNSET FLIPS! Shingo rolls through, high stacks, and deadlifts, BUCKLE BOMB! Cima goes after Daniels while Shingo GUT WRENCH POWERBOMBS!! Cover, Daniels breaks it! Daniels kicks Cima, runs, but Cima drop toeholds Daniels into a DEATH LOCK! Cima SNAPS the lock again and again! Sydal runs in, but Cima catches him! SNAP SUPLEX SNAP LOCK COMBO!! The fans are thunderous again as Cima stalks Daniels. Cima whips Daniels to a corner, runs up, but Daniels dodges the knees! ENZIGIRI! But Shingo whips Daniels! Daniels rolls off Shingo’s back, CODE BREAKER!

Daniels fireman’s carries Shingo, and throws him into the dragon sleeper! Sydal goes up, CROSSBODY DDT COMBO! Cover, TWO!! Shingo survives and Cima attacks Sydal! Daniels ROCKS Cima and puts him up top! SHOTEI! Daniels wrenches Cima but Cima breaks free! Cima flying sunset flips, rolls through, and he puts Daniels up top! SHOTEI, and then ICONOCLASM! The fans fire up as Cima hooks a leg! AOI SHODO! Cover, TWO!! Daniels survives but Cima goes to the apron. Cima springboards, but Daniels fireman’s carries! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Shingo runs up, but into a FLATLINER! KOJI KLUTCH!!

Shingo endures, Cima is up top! FROG SPLASH onto Daniels! Sydal DEEP IMPACT DDTS Cima!! Shingo PUMPING BOMBERS Sydal!! The fans are electric as all four men are down! Shingo rises, runs, “This is Awesome!” as Shingo LARIATS Sydal out! LARIAT for Daniels! Cima goes up, Shingo Electric Chair Lifts! CROSSBODY DOOMSDAY! Shingo hauls Daniels up again, STAY DREAM!! Cover, SYDAL BREAKS IT! Cima stomps Sydal out of the ring and Shingo drags Daniels up! Another pump handle, but Daniels slips free! They trade waistlock for waistlock, Cima aims! Daniels ducks and the SUPERKICK hits Shingo!!

Sydal TOSSES Cima! URENAGE for Shingo! BEST MOONSAULT EVER, and the SHOOTING STAR PRESS!! Cover, Daniels & Sydal win!!

Winners: Christopher Daniels & Matt Sydal, by pinfall (still ROH World Tag Team Champions)

Their first defense was an instant classic, and this reign of Daniels & Sydal would continue until February 24, 2007, losing to Mark & Jay Briscoe. With The Fallen Angel now leaving the boots in the ring, we can all say #ThankYouDaniels for a career full of honor.

Backstage interview with Leila Grey.

Lexy Nair is with the Top Flight Attendant and congratulates her on her first win of 2025. How is Leila going to keep this momentum going? Leila is all fired up, and she said that New Year, New Me. She is coming out guns blazing, and expects many more wins this year. Including some championship gold. And speaking of gold, she thinks it is time to challenge for something real. You know what she wants? The ROH Women’s Television Championship! Red Velvet, we see you holding that. But it is time for a real baddie to take the stand. So what does Red say? Next week, Red VS Grey for the Women’s TV Championship.

And “spoiler alert,” Leila’s taking that title. Get it? Got it? Good. Leila is ready to reach that next level, but will The Chef already cook up a fresh L for Leila?

Jacked Jameson is backstage.

The Iron Savages’ front man says he’s jacked, he’s stoked, this is gonna be sweet! His “homies” are over here, he’ll start a new group, it’ll be so sweet! Jameson walks over to Preston Vance, Griff Garrison & Cole Karter and says wassup, dudes! Uh, yeah… Well, alright, they’re looking shredded! Jacked to the gills! Check that chest! Vance is huge! So anyway, Jameson’s starting up a new group, it’s gonna be sweet! It’ll be a fraternity. No, wait, it’ll be THE Fraternity! There’ll be chicks, parties, it’ll be sweet, dude. Okay, they do dig chicks… And they are pretty jacked. No high-fives, bro. Jameson puts his hand down.

But see, Vance and the guys already get a lot of chicks, and already go to a lot of parties, so… Okay, okay, fair enough. But that’s just part of it. A very important part, but there’s more to it. The three of them have been a bit lost in the shuffle, and what they’re missing is discipline and focus. Jameson can be the guy to get them there. But hey, it’ll be awesome. Chicks, parties, titles, money! It’ll be so sweet! The Fraternity! The four of them will be unstoppable. Uh, sure… Just give them some time to think about it. Okay, bros! No, they’re not bros. Jameson goes off to the side, and the trio talks it out.

Griff votes they kick Jameson’s ass. Karter says that’s a good option, and Vance agrees. Jameson is a total idiot, but hey, they could at least hear him out. And then they can kick his ass! Vance calls Jameson back over, and Jameson’s all pumped. Vance says they considered his offer, and they will… think about it. See you around. Yeah, sure, bro! Chicks, money, parties- Yeah, yeah, they know, they know. Okay, okay. Do they want him to hang out? He can take his shirt off like them. No, no, that’s not needed. Okay, okay. Are there chicks coming? Y-Yeah, for them. With an Uber. Oh, okay, so they’re headed out? Alright.

Jameson still offers a high-five but no one is taking. Well, okay, next week! It’ll be awesome! The Fraternity! Jameson heads out and Karter says they should just kick his ass. Vance says yeah, that’s definitely the plan. But will Vance, Karter & Griff steal that idea and become the frat boys of ROH?

Chris Jericho speaks.

“Hi, guys~! Who can believe it? The 100th episode of ROH, available now at WatchROH.com. Think about this: 100 episodes of ROH, with 100 great moments from Chris Jericho, your ROH World Champion. And when I think of all of my favorite ROH moments, I mean there’s that one. And this one, and so many moments, who can even decide? You guys should form your own playlist: The Top Ten Moments of Chris Jericho in ROH! What’s it gonna be? I wanna know. Think of all the great ROH champions that have had the chance to influence and be with. All the great ROH champions in ROH history!

“From Chris Jericho to Samoa Joe, to The Learning Tree, to Bryan Danielson, to The King of New York, to Mark Briscoe, to The Nueve, to my personal favorite, Jay Briscoe, and so many more. So congratulations, ROH, on your 100th episode, El Ciento, from El Neuve. That’s me. Thanks, guys!” Jericho taking more credit than he deserves aside, what moments will we see be made across the next 100 episodes of ROH on Honor Club?

Katsuyori Shibata VS Shane Taylor w/ Shane Taylor Promotions!

Episode 100 ends with a huge match-up between the former ROH Pure Champion and the former ROH World Television Champion! Will The Wrestler look to win his way to a new title opportunity? Or will Big Bad Shaney T. show Shibata how to rumble, bad man, rumble?

The Code of Honor is skipped, the bell rings, and the fans fire up. The fans chant “SHI-BA-TA!” but The Infantry adds “SUCKS!” Shibata and Shane tie up, are in a deadlock, but Shane finds a point of leverage with his heigh and size. The ref counts, Shane lets off slowly, and he says, “They said you were a Japanese legend. All I see is a little Japanese b*tch!” The fans boo but Shibata SLAPS Shane! The fans fire up, Shane takes a swing, but Shibata dodges! Shibata CHOPS, then he eggs Shane on. Shane CHOPS, Shibata CHOPS, repeat! Neither man is backing down so the CHOPS keep going! Shibata even leans into the shots!

Shibata then ROCKS Shibata with a forearm! Shibata fires a flurry in the corner, then runs. But Shane is up to UPPERCUT! Shane shakes off the shots from Shibata while Shibata goes to the apron. Shibata stands, and Shane LARIATS him down! The fans boo but The Infantry talks smack. Shane storms out, drags Shibata up, and whips him into the railing! Shibata falls in a heap and Shane talks smack on the fans. Shane goes into the ring, he argues with the ref, but that lets The Infantry whips Shibata into the railing! Carlie Bravo mocks Shibata, “I bet that really hurt!” Shane goes out to fetch Shibata and HEADBUTTS him!

Shane puts Shibata on the apron, then CLUBS him in the chest! Shane goes up to the apron, then lines up a shot. GUILLOTINE LEG DROP! Shibata sputters and Shawn Dean says THIS is a man right here! Bravo says that hurts so bad! Shane tells Shibata to send this message back to NJPW. Shibata flops to the floor but Shane stands him up. Shane ROCKS Shibata! Shibata falls again and Shane stands on him. Shane talks trash, but the fans rally up for Shibata. Shane brings Shibata around but Shibata fires body shots. Shane ROCKS Shibata again! Shane puts Shibata in, then storms back up for a cover, TWO!

Shibata shows his toughness but Shane clamps onto him with a chinlock. The fans rally as Shibata endures. Shibata fights up, fires body shots, and he fires forearms! Shibata runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, but the SOUTHPAW finds him! Cover, ONE!! Shibata survives but Shane seethes. Shane talks smack on the fans, then he storms up on Shibata. Shibata stands so Shane gets in his face. Shane BODY BLOWS, but Shibata growls! Shane BODY BLOWS again, but Shibata steps to him! Shane fires forearm after forearm, then he goes corner to corner. But Shibata dodges! Shane hits buckles, Shibata BOOTS him!

Shibata CHOPS! And CHOPS! MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Shibata stands Shane up for more MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Shibata then goes corner to corner, HYDRAULIC DROPKICK! The fans fire up as Shibata stands Shane up, SNAP HALF HATCH! Cover, TWO! Shane shows that toughness but Shibata stays close. STP coaches Shane on but Shibata fires hands! Shibata runs, but into a BODY BLOW! Shibata kicks, Shane blocks, and Shane KNEES! Shibata roars, Shane ROCKS him! Shane tucks Shibata in, MARCUS GARVEY DRIVER!! Cover, TWO?!?! Shane is shocked that Shibata survives, but Cincy is all fired up!

STP tells Shane to hit him with the deal! Shane scoops Shibata, but Shibata slips free! Shibata CHOPS, and has the SLEEPER!! Shane flails but he’s caught! Shane reaches out, but Shibata slips under to SAIDO!! And back to the SLEEPER!! Shane fights up, but Shibata squeezes tight! Shane fades, and Shibata sits him down! Shibata runs to PENALTY KICK!! Cover, Shibata wins!

Winner: Katsuyori Shibata, by pinfall

Shane put up a fight worthy of Strong Style, but Shibata epitomizes Strong Style! Will Shibata keep this momentum going until he also epitomizes ROH? Wait, Bravo slips in, and then Dean and Moriarty step up. They mug Shibata! The fans boo but STP keeps on The Wrestler 3v1! Shane winds up, and he DECKS Shibata! Then Moriarty hands Shane a chair! The Infantry stomp Shibata while Shane sets the chair down. Shane tells Shibata they’ll end his career! Shane winds up, but DANIEL GARCIA is here! The TNT Champion is an ally to The Wrestler, he will not stand for this! But that’s a 4v1 situation.

WAIT WHAT!? The Undisputed Kingdom is here!? Adam Cole, Roderick Strong & Kyle O’Reilly, all former ROH World Champions, stand with Red Death, and they storm into the ring! STP goes into a tactical retreat, but clearly the battlelines have been drawn! Will ROH belong to Shane Taylor Promotions? Or will it once again be undisputed?

Don Callis speaks.

Scummy Callis is with his Alpha, Konosuke Takeshita, and says that was a great win for Shibata. Very impressive! Shibata is a former ROH Pure Champion, has been champion all over the world, and is one of the best Japanese wrestlers of all time. But you know who you’re not greater than? THE ALPHA! Konosuke Takeshita is THE greatest product to come out of Japan! Bigger than Rikidozan! Bigger than Inoki! Bigger than Baba! Bigger than Kobashi! And yeah, bigger than Shibata. So if Shibata has the guts to test himself against the AEW International Champion, show up at Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, the home of AEW, this Saturday!

And if he does, they’ll send him home in a body bag! Tell ’em, Take-san! Konosuke tells Shibata that this Saturday, he will show Shibata who is THE ALPHA! Shobu da, konoyaro! Callis is fired up for this one, but will The Wrestler become a champion in AEW for Homecoming?

My Thoughts:

A very good episode for ROH being that this is episode 100, but it isn’t exactly what I was hoping for given it’s episode 100, either. For one, we got only one (new) title match and it wasn’t even the main event. QT VS Komander was still a lot of fun, and that was still a great win for Komander. Lee Johnson stepping up for the next shot is cool, he was aiming for this title for most of 2024 and always falling short. I don’t know if he actually takes that title from Komander, but maybe now that he’s a Heel, he has EJ Nduka help him cheat that title off Komander. And then we only got promos from Jericho and Athena, not even real appearances, but I suppose that’s to bide time while contenders are built.

The only other title match we got was a replay from way back when Daniels & Sydal were a team and Shingo Takagi was a young Muscle Hawk in Dragon Gate. That was a great match, but even that can be seen as filler like the rest of the matches tonight. Still good wins for everyone, and Leila calling out Red Velvet is some good stuff. I would think Red Velvet wins again because we’re waiting on Velvet VS LEGIT Leyla Hirsch. Jacked Jameson wanting a new faction out of nowhere seems disappointing. There was a time when The Iron Savages could’ve become something more than comedic hosses, but TK dropped the ball there. That said, Vance, Griff & Karter is a good trio, I hope they become what Iron Savages (and other trios out there really) could’ve been.

Shibata VS Shane was a great main event, and Shibata winning is like a 51-49 surprising, if only because Shane and STP are being built up to try and take over ROH. However, I do appreciate we’re getting crossover between AEW and ROH again as Garcia and The Undisputed Kingdom show up to save Shibata. We could get a great 8 man Tag of Garcia & Kingdom VS STP that then sets up a lot of other matches. Callis & Konosuke having the last word was an interesting move, but word did come out before this episode aired (another fumble) that we were getting Konosuke VS Shibata for the International Championship, so it works that this promo makes it official. Konosuke VS Shibata could steal the show on Saturday, but I would think Konosuke wins.