Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (3/29/21)
This is Raw’s brutality!
One Raw champion puts out a hit, another signs a contract!
Tonight, the Raw Women’s Champion, Asuka, and Nightmare, Rhea Ripley, sign a contract to make their WrestleMania match official!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Sheamus VS Matt Riddle; Sheamus wins.
- Braun Strowman VS Jaxson Ryker w/ Elias & Shane McMahon; Braun wins.
- Shelton Benjamin w/ Cedric Alexander VS Bobby Lashley w/ MVP; Lashley wins.
- AJ Styles w/ Omos VS Xavier Woods w/ Kofi Kingston; Woods wins, by disqualification.
- Shayna Baszler w/ Nia Jax & Reginald VS Naomi w/ Lana; Naomi wins.
- Drew McIntyre VS Ricochet; McIntyre wins.
- Drew McIntyre VS Mustafa Ali; McIntyre wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Backstage interview with Drew McIntyre.
He surely knows the deal Bobby Lashley has offered the rest of the Raw roster. Yes, there’s a target on his back, and whoever can take McIntyre out before Mania, they get his spot against Lashley. So what will happen? Attacked by one person, two or three? But think before you jump him: One, is Lashley good for his offer? Two, you better be ready for an old fashion Scottish ass kicking if you try. Has McIntyre just put Lashley’s bounty hunters on notice?
Bobby Lashley and the Hurt Business head to the ring!
The All Mighty WWE World Champion has MVP, Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin following behind. They stand together, mics in hand as MVP says this is an official announcement from the Hurt Business. “We are less than two weeks away from WrestleMania! A spectacular two-night event where the All Mighty WWE Champion, Bobby Lashley, will walk in and out as the champion.” Lashley is currently set to face McIntyre, but allow them to make crystal clear their business proposition: If anyone takes out McIntyre before Mania, they will be rewarded a title match at Mania against Lashley.
Don’t mistake Lashley’s generosity as weakness. They just felt that McIntyre has had his opportunities. They’re trying to give someone else a chance to step up and become a star against the All Mighty! This is the opportunity of a lifetime, so who wants to step up and accept that offer? No one arrives, so MVP says here is who will not be sharing the ring with Lashley. Footage of last week’s 2v1 Handicap replays, where McIntyre defeated Alexander and Benjamin to officially ban them from ringside for Mania! Alexander and Benjamin didn’t think MVP would play that but Lashley says they had the perfect opportunity against McIntyre and couldn’t get the job done!
Don’t even get Lashley started on the Raw Tag Team Championships. They’re tarnishing Lashley’s image, which is why they stepped outside “the family.” Lashley can’t count on them for anything! Lashley worked too long and too hard to get this title, and refuses to associate himself with incompetence! MVP agrees. 2v1 Handicap against McIntyre and they failed miserably. But here’s an opportunity to speak up. Alexander asks what this is about. They could’ve done this privately and yet- Benjamin interrupts and asks if is this just to embarrass them? Lashley wouldn’t be champion without them! They toed the line, had his back, and won’t let MVP talk to him like a child.
Benjamin shoves MVP, Lashley DECKS Alexander but Benjamin THROWS Lashley!! Lashley throws his jacket off and glares at Benjamin. They throw hands, Benjamin rakes eyes but Lashley throws knees! Lashley hits a COMPLETE SHOT! Alexander gets up on the apron but gets backed down by Lashley’s glare! Lashley throws Benjamin out and then picks up his belt. MVP says they should be ashamed. Lashley tells Alexander and Benjamin that as far as they’re concerned, the Hurt Business is OVER! But the hit is still out for McIntyre, and the bounty is still up for grabs! Who will pounce on this chance and look to replace the Scottish Warrior?
Backstage interview with Matt Riddle.
He faces Sheamus tonight for what happened last week, but why does Riddle think Sheamus hit him with the scooter? Riddle wanted to ask questions and maybe Sheamus was having a bad day or just doesn’t have a soul. But Sheamus upset Riddle and Riddle doesn’t like being upset. It’s like having these sweet, tasty Doritos that you’ve been wanting to have all day, and before you even take a bite, BOOM! They hit the floor. Riddle then spots Titus O’Neil and scooters on over to say hey! Riddle wants to ask a question: What if you roasted a pig in the center of the ring at WrestleMania? What? Is Riddle okay? What’s he talking about?
Isn’t Titus part of the WrestleMania roast? No, no, Titus is a WrestleMania co-host, with Hulk Hogan. OH… The co-host of the roast! Bring ice cream. No, that tears Titus’ stomach up. Okay what about Mac ‘n’ Cheese? Or shrimp? Titus heads off, and Sheamus CLOBBERS Riddle!! The Fella mockingly tells the Bro, “see you out there.” Will Riddle now get payback for two cheap shots tonight?
Alexander and Benjamin complain to Adam Pearce.
That ingrate, Lashley, threw these two away like nothing! But Lashley wouldn’t be champion without them! He’s nothing without all of them! Benjamin will take Lashley on tonight, and if there’s something left, give him to Alexander next week! Are they sure about that? Why is he asking stupid questions? Is he protecting Lashley the same way he was protecting McIntyre? Does he have to consult with Lashley the same way he does with Roman? Does he make matches or not?! Where is Pearce’s sack?! Make a match! Alexander and Benjamin storm off, will Scrap Daddy be pressured into another high stakes decision?
Samoa Joe is away but MVP is on commentary for tonight!
He says that if Benjamin and Alexander showed the aggression and initiative they’ve showed tonight against McIntyre, they wouldn’t be in this situation.
Sheamus VS Matt Riddle!
The Celtic Warrior already didn’t like The Bro before, but after the frustrating losses, Riddle is getting on Sheamus’ last nerve. Will Sheamus make sure to put the Bro in Brogue, or rather the other way around?
The bell rings and Sheamus goes right at Riddle in a corner! The ref counts, Sheamus headlocks but Riddle gets to a waistlock. Riddle puts Sheamus in a corner, Sheamus powers out and gets Riddle down to a cover, ONE. Riddle waistlocks, Sheamus fights up and throws Riddle down to get a chinlock. Riddle fights up, goes for a Triangle but Sheamus makes it a cover, TWO! Sheamus CLUBS Riddle, puts him in a corner and throws hard body shots, then stomps Riddle down. Sheamus throws Riddle with a headlock takeover, Riddle fights but Sheamus digs his fingers into Riddle’s face. Fans rally, Riddle fights up, and Riddle throws body shots.
Riddle powers out but Sheamus runs him over! Sheamus goes to run but Riddle anchors a foot. Sheamus stomps Riddle, runs but into a leap! Riddle gets around to a sleeper and body scissors! Sheamus rolls but he can’t throw Riddle off! Riddle squeezes tight, Sheamus fights up, and Sheamus puts Riddle in a corner. The ref counts for them to break, Sheamus gets a string of back elbows in! The ref backs Sheamus off, but Sheamus drags Riddle up to CLOBBER him! Sheamus stomps Riddle, stands him up, and CLUBS him back down. Sheamus CLUBS riddle again, Riddle hits back! They brawl back and forth, Sheamus ROCKS Riddle then whips him. Riddle kicks back! And kicks again!
Riddle hits a KNEE! Sheamus is in ropes, Riddle dropkicks him out to the floor! Riddle keeps moving, goes up and out and PENALTY KICKS from the apron! Then he SPRINGBOARD FLOATING BROS! Both men are down on the outside as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns and Sheamus has Riddle down with fish hooks in the mouth! Sheamus lets off and stomps Riddle down. Sheamus brings Riddle up to throw haymakers but Riddle gives them back! They brawl again, Riddle gets the edge with forearms and palm strikes! Riddle runs but Sheamus scoops for a BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Sheamus is annoyed but he CLUBS Riddle back down! Sheamus drags Riddle up, reels him in to CLUB him in the back, then CLUB him down again! “You’re a disgrace to that title! You hear me?!” Sheamus fireman’s carries Riddle to the ropes but Riddle counters to a gut wrench! Sheamus fights the bomb off, turns around, and boots Riddle away!
Sheamus adjusts, Riddle comes back with a forearm and a CHOP! Riddle climbs up, brings Sheamus up, but Sheamus hits back and shoves him down! But Riddle is right back up! SUPER BELLY2BELLY!! Both men are down and MVP says that’s one of those moves where you can’t be sure who got the worst of it. Riddle and Sheamus slowly sit up, Sheamus stands first but Riddle eggs him on. Riddle fires off more fast hands, boots then spins Sheamus for the PELE! Sheamus staggers to a corner. Riddle kips up and runs in to forearm smash! Then side to side for another! BROSPLODER! Riddle aims and fires off Bro Kicks!
The ref has Riddle let off at the ropes, but Sheamus catches Riddle to Alabama lift! Riddle sunset flips, Sheamus rolls through, PENALTY KICK and BROTON! Cover, TWO!! TRIANGLE HOLD! Sheamus flails, make sit a cover, TWO, to a dead lift POWERBOMB! But Riddle still has the Triangle Hold! Sheamus reaches, drags himself over, ROPEBREAK! Riddle lets go at 4, heads over but Sheamus ROCKS him! Riddle kicks but Sheamus catches it to drag him up and over, APRON WHITE NOISE!! Cover, TWO!??! Sheamus can’t believe Riddle survived! Sheamus hurries to Alabama lift and ALABAMA SLAM! Cover, TWO?!!? Riddle is still in this and Sheamus is stunned!
Sheamus gets up, aims from a corner, pounds his chest but Riddle hits a FINAL FLASH! Inside cradle, TWO!! Sheamus blocks Riddle’s knee to KNEE him back! Cover, Sheamus wins!!
Winner: Sheamus, by pinfall
The Fella just pinned the United States Champion! He gloats but Riddle dumps him out! Riddle is still furious, and vows Sheamus will get what’s coming to him! Will Riddle be watching for Sheamus after all the sucker punches and cheap shots?
Shane McMahon walks with Elias and Jaxson Ryker backstage.
Kevin Patrick comes by to ask Shane what he plans to reveal in his “exposé” of Braun Strowman tonight. No, but he appreciates Kevin being a good reporter. Know that we’re going to learn some very interesting things about Braun. Enlightening, even. Shane O’Mac, The Drifter and the follower head to the ring to reveal those very things!
Drew McIntyre encounters AJ Styles and Omos.
There’s not a chance he’s turning his back on these two. Lashley’s offer is not one they can refuse. Wow, Lashley’s gotten into McIntyre’s head. Unlike McIntyre, these two have bigger plans for Mania. They’re a lot more realistic. Styles would love to see Omos smack McIntyre off the ground, but these two will embarrass the New Day and become the NEW Raw, Tag, Team, CHAMPIONS~! Plus, Styles has to be ready for his match with Xavier Woods. But surely their paths will cross again. Fine. McIntyre shouts to the shadows to dare anyone to take Lashley up on that offer! Will there be any takers?
Shane, Elias and Ryker are in the ring.
Though he’ll face the Monster Among Men on Night One of WrestleMania, Shane is here to address the elephant in the room, and he doesn’t mean Braun. No, he means the accusations that given his amazing athletics last week, his leg injury was a lie. Now those who think that don’t know anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, or adrenaline. Adrenaline was what gave him the pain relief that helped him get away and not be further injured. Shane is now 100% and will defeat Braun in the middle of the ring at WrestleMania.
Now, Shane has been doing some homework, and something he’s discovered is something that goes way back. One thing was very interesting and it gave him insight into “young B-B-B-Braun.” Going back to Braun’s Fifth Grade report card, he got STRAIGHT D’S! From Social Studies to Math to English and even GYM! Though maybe that’s a bit harsh. The letter grade is one thing, but these teacher comments are another. Braun is disruptive, instigating fights, aka a bully. He has a lack of basic problem solving skills and looked to be held back. He fell behind his classmates and needed summer school. Doesn’t seem like Braun’s improved over any of these.
In summation, a picture is worth a thousand words. Therefore, the last image is Braun in a dunce cap, and “2+2 = 5 I’M NOT STUPID!” Elias starts to feel bad for Braun. Ryker get sit, though. It is cliché, but true: big guy, tiny brain. Shane knows he will outwit Braun, as will Ryker here tonight. But at the end, maybe what Braun needs is a “big ol’ warm hug from all of us.” They will give it to B-B-B-Braun. But BRAAAUN~ makes his entrance and Shane looks worried, because there’s a good chance someone’s gonna #GetTheseHands!
Braun Strowman VS Jaxson Ryker w/ Elias & Shane McMahon!
Raw returns, the bell rings and Braun shoves Ryker down, drags him up then TOSSES him across the way! And TOSSES him again! Braun goes out and starts the Strowman Express! Shane runs away, Braun goes into the ring, and he choke grips Ryker to power him to a corner! Braun fires off heavy hands, big elbows, and brings Ryker up to HEADBUTT him down! Elias distracts Braun, then Shane distracts the ref! Braun runs them both off but Ryker attacks! Ryker fires off hands, Braun puts him in a corner but Ryker boots back! Ryker runs and chop blocks a leg out! Ryker keeps going, BULLDOG!
Ryker fires up, goes up the corner and wants Braun to stand! Ryker leaps, ax handles Braun, but Braun comes back to BOOT him down! Ryker bails out, Braun goes out, and the Strowman Express starts down the track to CLOBBER Ryker! Braun puts Ryker in, storms after him and runs in to SPLASH! Braun shouts, “This is your fate, Shane! You made this bed, and you’re gonna lay in it at WrestleMania!” Scoop and MONSTER SLAM!! Cover, Braun wins!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by pinfall
And the chase is on again! Shane runs away, Elias hurries after Braun and KNEES Him down! Elias and Shane attack 2v1, stomping and dropping knees! Braun EXPLODES out! Shane runs away, but Braun gets a mic! “Where’re you running off to, Shane? You think I forgot? You accepted my challenge for a match at WrestleMania. Maybe you forgot you told me I could pick any match that I wanted.”
And Braun’s been thinking and has made up his mind. They’re going to have a match where the goons can’t get involved in, and where they’ll end these weeks and weeks of Shane running for his life! “There’s nowhere to run, there’s nowhere to hide. At WrestleMania, you’re gonna Get These Hands in a STEEL CAGE MATCH!” Shane’s bullying has finally come back to haunt him! Will Shane survive being inside the steel with the Monster?
Raw presents an all new Dirt Sheet!
The Miz and John Morrison are already in the ring, dressed for the red carpet that isn’t there, and give their introductions. If you’re wondering why Morrison’s hair is so high, it’s because it’s full of secrets. But it’s no secret that The Miz is the Most Must-See WWE Superstar. Tonight might be the most anticipated episode of the Dirt Sheet ever as #JohnnyDripDrip and MC M I Z have the world premiere of “Hey Hey, Hop Hop,” the hottest beat to drop since Despacito and Mo’ Money Mo’ Problems! Just call him Notorious M I Z. Is that the VMA’s calling?
“Hey, John, do you know who was nominated for a VMA last year?” “Bad Bunny.” “Correct. And do you know who didn’t win a VMA last year?” “Bad Bunny.” “Correct!” He won a Grammy, though. That’s not how this gag works. It goes, “Hey, John. Do you know who is going to lose to me at WrestleMania?” “Bad Bunny.” COOOOOORRECT. And speaking of, Miz will address last week. He thought he made it absolutely clear that Bunny doesn’t belong here when he smacked him with a guitar. Miz thought he solidified his stance when he challenged Bunny to this Mania match. But then Bunny accepts? And then has the cajones to return the favor and hit MIZ in the back?!
Miz gets it, it’s tit for tat, but Miz was trying to teach Bunny a lesson while Bunny was trying to hurt Miz! He’s got some bold cotton balls. This is far from over! Miz promises to pay back Bunny at Mania for every ounce of ridicule, every shred of disrespect and every splinter of wood that was in his back. Didn’t Bunny also call Miz- Yes, but let’s focus on the positives! Such as Miz being the only TWO-TIME Grand Slam Champion in the WWE, and will still be the backbone of the WWE after Bunny’s 15 minutes of fame are over. Plus, they shot an absolutely awesome music video! They took a few days in San Juan, Puerto Rico, put the hop back in hip hop, and celebrated with Pina Coladas.
So without a moment further, here is the WORLD PREMIERE of Hey Hey, Hop Hop! Miz and Morrison start the video with the introduction they just gave, and away they go. Stock footage of fans, photoshopping themselves onto Madison Square Garden and Tokyo Square, and wearing bunny suits. Johnny Drip Drip and MC M I Z have sweet rhymes and nasty lucha. They also add in Miz hitting Bunny with the guitar several times. Miz and Morrison dance along with themselves in the present. They and the fake fans in the video are the only ones cheering. Miz gets emotional as he practices his acceptance speech for the Grammy’s.
But here come Bad Bunny and Damian Priest to respond! Congrats! They actually enjoyed that. It was really… How to say it? Entertaining? Sure. But Priest is glad Miz found time to relax and goof off. Because he won’t be laughing when Bunny handles him at Mania. Bunny won’t say anything else but that at Mania, Bunny says it in Spanish and Miz demands to know what it means in English. He’s going to make Miz his bitch!! Miz and Morrison storm out, but Priest is in the way. Feeling real bad behind your boy, huh, Bunny? Priest moves aside and Bunny ROCKS Miz with a right haymaker!
Priest and Bunny get in the ring and dare Miz to bring it! Morrison keeps Miz back, but Bunny throws the Dirt Sheet set out! Priest and Bunny dare the would-be rappers to bring it, then they take the poster for the music video and bend it up! Morrison says Bunny just signed his death warrant! Will Miz make this the Most Must-See crossover of all time?
Randy Orton speaks.
“I have been privileged throughout the course of my career to go toe-to-toe with some of the greatest talent that this industry has ever offered. Legends like Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair, legends like Shawn Michaels and Triple H, legends like The Undertaker, Kane, John Cena, it’s a very long list.” But none of those men compares to The Fiend. Just a few months ago, Orton did what he had to do to get rid of The Fiend once and for all. he chose to light the match, drop the match and watch the Fiend BURN! “No man could have survived that. But that’s the thing now, isn’t it?” Orton didn’t realize that The Fiend isn’t a man, but much, much more! The Fiend is sick and twisted, sadistic, and an abomination from HELL!
Orton thought Alexa Bliss’ premonition that The Fiend would return was an elaborate game. But the “match” at Fastlane wasn’t that at all! It was a trap! The entire time,. Alexa knew that she had The Fiend’s heartbeat in the palm of her hand and could bring him back. At least now, thank you, God, that Orton knows what he’s dealing with! So for the final time, at WrestleMania, Orton isn’t facing a man but a “sick and twisted, sadistic abomination!” Lucky for Orton, “we were both cut from the same cloth.” That means Orton will do what he has to do and knows how far as he must go to get The Fiend out of his life once and for all!
Shelton Benjamin w/ Cedric Alexander VS Bobby Lashley w/ MVP!
Adam Pearce made a match, and he is giving the Gold Standard his chance to show the Rocky Mountain Machine what he’s made of! Will Benjamin tear down the All Mighty World Champion and let Alexander handle the scraps next week? Or will Lashley simply steamroll one before he bulldozes the other?
Raw returns, the bell rings, and Benjamin fires off on Lashley with haymakers! Benjamin knees low, clubs Lashley, but Lashley shoves him away. Lashley scoops Benjamin but Benjamin slips off to waistlock. Lashley elbows free, Benjamin gets around and SLAMS Lashley down. Benjamin grinds Lashley but Lashley fights up. Benjamin throws Lashley down again, Alexander coaches him and Benjamin throws knees in! Benjamin clamps onto Lashley, waistlocks again, but Lashley pries free. Benjamin clubs Lashley, runs but Lashley follows to get Benjamin for the COMPLETE SHOT! Lashley rains down fists, paces, and drags Benjamin up to throw out of the ring.
Lashley paces, Alexander coaches Benjamin but Lashley goes out to get Benjamin. Lashley fireman’s carries Benjamin to POST him! Benjamin writhes, Alexander is furious but Lashley glares at them both. Lashley drags Benjamin up to throw him in and stalks him. Lashley runs corner to corner to RAM into Benjamin! Alexander swipes at Lashley, Lashley gives chase! Alexander goes up the ramp and MVP says that’s pretty funny given Alexander wanted a piece of Lashley. The ring count is past 5 of 10, Lashley returns but runs into PAYDIRT!! Cover, TWO!! Lashley survives and MVP says Alexander has only angered Lashley.
Lashley gets up, throws haymakers but Benjamin gives them back. Benjamin rams Lashley into the corner, fires off hands, then runs in to KNEE Lashley! Benjamin fire sup, runs corner to corner, and KNEES Lashley again! But Lashley hits an ALL MIGHTY SPINEBUSTER! Lashley drags Benjamin up to rain down more fists, then whips him for another ALL MIGHTY SPINEBUSTER! Lashley watches Benjamin slowly get up, and puts on the HURT LOCKER!! Benjamin is a rag doll, Lashley wins!
Winner: Bobby Lashley, by submission
The Rocky Mountain Machine has a head of steam going towards WrestleMania Weekend! Will PRIMED Alexander only get the same next week? Or will he reconsider and withdraw his request?
AJ Styles and Omos encounter The New Day backstage.
Styles asks what this is all about. This is for the game they’re going to play tonight! Some icebreaker things to see if Styles and Omos are meshing as a team. No, Styles and Woods are going to fight. Is he scared? Is he chicken? BAWK BAWK! NO HE’S NOT! Let’s play your games! Styles and Omos will beat them at these games, then beat them in the ring! Yeah no. But first, game night! Let the games begin, BABYYYY~! Cards, charades, all sorts of stuff! Styles says that’s fine. He and Omos can make the New Day look even more ridiculous! But will game night be less than phenomenal for the challengers?
WrestleMania has MORE matches!
For Night One, Braun VS Shane is now officially a Steel Cage Match! And then on Night Two, Sheamus gets another match with Matt Riddle, for the WWE United States Championship!
The New Day present game night!
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the NEW~ DAY~ Game~ NIIIGHT~!” This is where team skills will be put to the test against some friends! Woods introduces the Phenomenal AJ Styles, “and his extremely large counterpart,” Omos! Boooo~! Boo. Styles and Omos make their way to the ring, Woods apologizes but says he loves the mauve shirt on Omos. Kofi wants Styles to calm down and says that we’re on the way to WrestleMania, so it is important for a tag team to be on the same page, a well-oiled machine. There is a line-up of games ready to prove who (who who who) is the better team.
Playing games is going to prove who is the better team? Well, Styles & Omos are already the better team in the ring, so they’ll play along. First up is charades! You get a clue, act it out silently, and hopefully your partner gets it. Kofi goes first and the New Day has 15 seconds. BEGIN! Kofi’s clue: A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton. The piano fingers and distance hands work out. Styles can’t believe it! Well Woods loves that song! Styles takes his turn, 15 seconds and… GO! Styles’ clue: The Lion King. He does cat paws and a crown, then waving. Omos isn’t sure. Time’s up! Lion King, man! Crown, cat! But he didn’t get it~!
That moves to round two! Pick another clue and use it for Pictionary! Woods will draw on the paper, Kofi will guess. Woods’ clue: Rocket Ship. He draws a box, triangle, circle, and a moon. ROCKET SHIP!! WOOOO~! Styles volunteers to draw, even though it’s Omos’ turn. But Omos just stays put so Styles goes again. Styles’ clue: The Sun. He draws a circle with lines, and Omos is still confused. It’s the sun! Is Omos not trying? Well it’s a clean SWEEP~! Get the brooms! Omos shouts, “ENOUGH!” He isn’t here for games! To be champions, all they have to do is win at WrestleMania! Omos will show them BOTH what he is capable! And Styles will show Woods what he’s capable of right now!
Woods says HE will show STYLES what he is capable of! But thank you for watching the first-ever New Day Game Night! Styles throws things around in a fit, but he’ll be looking to throw hands with Woods after the break!
AJ Styles w/ Omos VS Xavier Woods w/ Kofi Kingston!
Raw returns and the bell rings. Woods and Styles circle, tie up, and Woods wrenches to a wristlock but Styles ROCKS him with a right. Things speed up. Styles hurdles then drops to dropkick Woods down! Styles taunts Kofi, drags Woods up and whips him to ropes. Woods ducks, dodges and slides to ROLLING ELBOW! Omos is annoyed as Woods throws EuroUppers on Styles. Woods bumps Styles off buckles, CHOPS him, then has him in another corner for a bump and CHOP! Kofi has his play by play but Styles blocks the bump to bump Woods! Styles whips, Woods reverses but Styles reverses back! Styles runs in but misses and hits buckles! Woods CHOPS Styles off his feet! Cover, ONE!
Woods drags Styles up but Styles knees low. Styles whips, Woods reverses and sends Styles out! Woods DECKS Styles off the apron, Woods builds speed, but Omos stands in the way! Styles gets away and back in the ring to turn Woods around! Woods blocks to dropkick Styles out the other way! Woods builds speed to FLY and take Styles out at the ramp! Kofi and the fans are fired up while Woods slides in to mockingly wave at Omos, and Raw goes to break!
Raw returns as Woods throws haymakers on Styles. Woods whips, Styles reverses but Woods comes back with a leaping forearm! Woods rallies on Styles, ducks a clothesline to LEG LARIAT! Woods fires up, brings Styles around but Styles reverses to back suplex. Woods lands on his feet and pops Styles up for a back drop! Cover, TWO! Woods keeps his cool as he drags Styles up and pushes him into the corner. Woods hoists Styles up top, throws hands, then climbs up to join him. Woods clubs Styles, brings him up, but Styles slips under to trip Woods up! Styles fireman’s carries to an USHIGOROSHI! Cover, TWO!! Kofi coaches Woods but Styles is furious!
Styles drags Woods up, reels him in, and calls his shot! Woods RAMS Styles into the corner, reels him in, and hits a TORNADO DDT! Cover, TWO!! Woods kicks Styles, drags him to a drop zone and goes to a corner. Woods climbs slowly, Omos drags Styles out of the ring to safety! Woods sees that, runs over but Omos blocks the kick to TOSS Woods into the ring!
Winner: Xavier Woods, by disqualification
Kofi leaps at Omos but Omos catches him! And military presses Kofi to TOSS him over the barrier!! Just like when he tossed Woods with that choke slam! Styles drags Woods up, bumps him off buckles and fires off hands! Omos runs in to back elbow Woods HARD! Styles says he and Omos will be champion, and they’ll “get it done!” Styles feeds Woods to Omos’ POP-UP SPINEBUSTER!! The gigantic Omos stands on Woods’ chest, and Styles “counts the pin.” Will we see this happen at WrestleMania in Omos’ massive debut match?
Raw returns to Alexa’s Playground.
She hums Pop Goes the Weasel, then says, “Don’t you just love Jack-in-the-Boxes?” This may look and sound like a normal one, but she’ll let us in on a secret: “it’s so much more. Did you know, centuries ago, these used to be called Devil in the Box?” They had spells written all over and there were weakened spirits inside. That’s what happened at TLC to him. Randy Orton burned The Fiend alive, and then believed he was gone forever. But he was wrong. The Fiend was just weakened and trapped. Trapped inside the Fiend in a Box. “But you can’t trap evil forever. All he needed was time. And now he’s just salivating at the idea of standing across from Randy Orton at WrestleMania.”
Orton’s biggest mistake used to be playing with fire. But now, Orton’s mistake is thinking he understands what’s next. He doesn’t. But Alexa will give us Fireflies a teeny, tiny little hint. “At WrestleMania, the Legend Killer dies.” The camera backs up, and The Fiend has been sitting beside Alexa this whole time! Will the Fiend chase the Viper around until it’s POP goes Randy Orton?
McIntyre storms into the locker room!
He’s done waiting for someone to step up! He’ll get them to step up now! No one wants to? That’s disappointing. A few years ago, a young McIntyre would’ve gone after him the second he got here! Anyone gonna tweet and get trending? Is that how you guys get something going today? McIntyre tells Braun he should’ve been a five-time world champion by now! Why isn’t he?! Step the hell up! Braun says McIntyre doesn’t have to worry. After he tears Shane apart, and if McIntyre gets the title back, Braun will be first to come find him.
Anyone else then? WrestleMania is here, dammit! McIntyre wants Humberto Carrillo to step up and do something! Anyone! Riddle says he’s stuffed after fighting Sheamus. Those matches are like full Thanksgiving meals. But Angel Garza gives it a try! He clubs McIntyre but McIntyre ROCKS him then throws him into a couch! McIntyre asks if anyone is taking this serious! Drew Gulak thinks about it, and McIntyre says he’s seen the posts, begging for replies. GLASGOW KISS!! Ricochet is there, and McIntyre knows he wants his opportunity. Take it.
Ricochet says Lashley’s word doesn’t mean a thing to him. They’ve known each other a long time. If McIntyre wants a fight, then alright. McIntyre respects that. See you in the ring, Ricochet. Will the One and Only still prove himself, Lashley’s bounty or not?
Shayna Baszler w/ Nia Jax & Reginald VS Naomi w/ Lana!
With the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships without challengers for WrestleMania, the Queen of Spades takes on The Glow to see if she is worthy! Will Naomi take the fight to Shayna and earn a golden ticket for her and Lana?
Raw returns, Dana Brooke & Mandy Rose have joined commentary as Naomi makes her entrance. The bell rings, Shayna and Naomi circle then tie up. Naomi waistlocks, Shayna backs her down but the ref counts. Shayna lets off but ROCKS Naomi with an elbow! Naomi boots but is blocked so she comes back with an enziguri! Naomi whips, Shayna reverses but Naomi goes up only for Shayna to KICK her arms out! Nia cheers Shayna as Shayna wrenches the arm to hammerlock and STOMP the arm! Dana feels Naomi’s pain as Shayna fires forearms on Naomi. Shayna wristlocks, keylocks and grinds Naomi down. Naomi endures, fights up, and throws body shots to then enziguri again!
Naomi PENALTY KICKS, then NECK SNAPPERS! Shayna staggers up into a BUBBA BOMB! Rolling clutch, TWO! Naomi bridges, TWO! KIRAFUDA KTLUCH! Naomi rolls to a cover, Shayna slips out to go for an arm but Naomi hits a leg split leg drop! Cover, TWO! Naomi goes up, Reggie distracts her! Lana runs in, Reggie handsprings away from her! Shayna has Naomi in the Tree of Woe but Naomi fights free while Nia glares at Lana. Lana goes to slap but gets scooped! Nia wants the table, Lana slips off and shoves Nia into Mandy! Dana goes after Lana for that! Reggie panics as Dana fireman’s carries Lana around.
Lana kicks Dana away, is on the apron, Shayna BOOTS her down! Naomi rolls Shayna, and WINS!!
Winner: Naomi, by pinfall
The Ravishing Glow took advantage of the chaos and got the win! Will they be the ones heading for Mania to shine in the spotlight?
Asuka and Riddle cross paths.
Is everything okay, Bro? Yeah, he’s just a bit sore and beat up. But at least he gets to fight Sheamus at Mania! And he’s got his scooter back! Nice! She likes? Yeah! Do people in Japan like scooters? Oh, yeah, they’d love it. Riddle spaces out, apologizes, and heads off again. Will Riddle get his head right before facing the Fella again? And speaking of title matches, Asuka heads for gorilla, because she has a contract signing to get to!
Adam Pearce is in the ring.
He officially introduces the Raw Women’s Championship match contract signing, and first introduces the challenger, Rhea Ripley! This time last year, Rhea was showing up on Raw as NXT Women’s Champion and getting Charlotte Flair to challenge her. Now, she is the challenger stepping up against the Empress of Tomorrow! And now, the Empress herself, Asuka, makes her entrance! Both women take their seats at the table and Rhea likes to point out that Asuka is the current Raw Women’s Champion. Asuka laughs at Rhea’s little joke, because she IS the Raw Women’s Champion. “And you are overconfident.”
Rhea admits she is overconfident, but on her first night to Raw, she was confident enough to step to Asuka for a match. Now, she’s confident enough to tell Asuka that she will WIN at Mania and take the title! Rhea signs her part, pushes the contract to Asuka, and Asuka signs her part. And then in Japanese then English, Asuka tells Rhea that her confidence is borrowed, not earned. Rhea has talent, but she has to learn that she is NOT READ- Rhea DUMPS the table onto Asuka! But wait, why are Nia and Shayna returning?!
Rhea stands over Asuka, grabs a mic, and as Nia says, “I don’t know what’s worse: Rhea Ripley having the audacity to request a championship at WrestleMania, or Asuka for accepting her challenge.” Shayna says both are bad. But Rhea’s new, Asuka’s the one who should be ashamed. After everything Shayna’s down to Asuka, she should know better. Shayna and Nia have dominated the ENTIRE Women’s Division for an entire YEAR! Where is THEIR Mania match? Shayna showed she could kick Asuka’s teeth out. And as for Rhea, Shayna can’t wait to give her a hard dose of reality. Rhea asks what’s stopping them?
Well if the Empress of Yesterday can pull herself together, how about she and Rhea step into the ring with Nia & Shayna next week? Then Nia can show Rhea what *stomp* brutality really is. Rhea answers on behalf of Asuka that they ACCEPT! Asuka is shocked, but Rhea just wants to fight! Will Rhea regret getting ahead of herself? Or is she going to earn that confidence she has?
MVP finds Ricochet backstage.
After all this time, MVP is glad to see Ricochet is thinking like a businessman and take Lashley up on the offer. Ricochet explains to MVP this isn’t about Lashley’s offer. At the end of the day, Lashley AND MVP are both full of it. Tonight is for Ricochet. Ricochet doesn’t know when he’ll get another opportunity, but he will beat McIntyre because he knows he can! See you around. Will the One and Only still do the Hurt Business’ dirty work for them?
Drew McIntyre VS Ricochet!
The Scottish Stud goes to the ring first, still looking around to see if anyone else wants to cash in. Will he be able to focus on the King of Flight if his head’s on a swivel?
Raw returns and Ricochet makes his entrance. The bell rings and Ricochet fires off hands but McIntyre tosses Ricochet! Ricochet boots McIntyre, runs and ducks, but still gets LAUNCHED with a back drop! McIntyre looms over Ricochet, brings him up, and CHOPS him! McIntyre keeps Ricochet from falling over to then OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! Ricochet flops to the apron, McIntyre storms over and drags him back up. McIntyre ROCKS Ricochet with a right, Lashley watches backstage as McIntyre OVERHEAD- Wait, Ricochet lands on his feet! Ricochet dodges McIntyre, runs and tilt-o-whirls to headscissor McIntyre into buckles!
Ricochet fires off hands, then KNEES McIntyre down to a knee! Ricochet runs, goes up the corner, and leaps to ENZIGURI! Cover, ONE!?! McIntyre shocks Ricochet and shoves him away. Ricochet dumps McIntyre out, McIntyre gets to his feet and drags Ricochet out! McIntyre DECKS Ricochet, whips him but Ricochet goes up and up, to walk the barriers and come back with a DROPKICK! MVP actually cheers Ricochet on as he gets in the ring. McIntyre hurries in, Ricochet puts him in a drop zone. Ricochet hurries up top, but McIntyre avoids the 450! Ricochet rolls through and comes back, into a CLAYMORE!! Cover, McIntyre wins!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
The Scottish Warrior wasn’t taken out by Ricochet, and starts to dare anyone else to step up, and MUSTAFA ALI chop blocks from behind! Ali has no Retribution behind him but he stomps away on McIntyre! Ali fires off hands, the ref pulls him away but McIntyre throws Ali out! Ali flounders back up and McIntyre dares Ali to fight him! Will McIntyre have another match again?!
Drew McIntyre VS Mustafa Ali!
Raw returns, and he is! But it’s already underway and Ali SLAMS McIntyre’s leg against the post! And then dropkicks the leg into the post! Ali wants to do more damage but McIntyre kick shim away. McIntyre hobbles, Ali runs in and avoids the scoop to chop block again! Ali drops elbows on the leg, stomps it, then shouts, “This is what I deserve!” Ali KICKS McIntyre’s leg, Lashley is still watching, and McIntyre DECKS Ali. McIntyre gets in but Ali dropkicks the leg out! Lashley doesn’t look satisfied and he leaves. Ali is still after the leg, clubs McIntyre on the back and puts the leg in the ropes. Ali pulls but McIntyre CHOPS Ali away! McIntyre storms over but into another basement dropkick! Cover, ONE!!
Ali is still after the leg! McIntyre grabs for ropes, Ali holds on but McIntyre kicks him away. Ali skins the cat to get back up. Ali climbs to the top rope and SPLASHES the leg! McIntyre writhes, Ali covers, TWO!! Ali grows frustrated, and tells MVP he’s getting that opportunity! MVP loves the initiative. Ali throws haymakers on McIntyre and rains them down! Ali glares, runs, but into an OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! McIntyre seethes and runs in to OVERHEAD Belly2Belly Ali again! McIntyre hobbles over, throws haymakers and CHOPS, then stomps Ali to bring him up, and OVERHEAD Belly2Belly again! McIntyre demands Ali stand, but Ali kicks the bad leg! Ali goes up and leaps, into a GLASGOW KISS!
McIntyre counts down from the corner, and CLAYMORES! Cover, McIntyre wins again!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
That’s two in a row in one night, but then he dares anyone else to step up!? How about Lashley?! McIntyre demands a mic, gets one, and shouts, “C’mon, Lashley. I know you’re back there watching. Everybody tried, and everybody got their ass kicked by Drew McIntyre!” Lashley needs to man up, get out and finish McIntyre himself! McIntyre demands Lashley grow balls and show up! Lashley makes his entrance, MVP says this isn’t good. Will we get WrestleMania a couple weeks early?! We find out after the break!
Raw returns as Lashley and McIntyre stare down.
McIntyre says, “I guess it makes sense why you came out here. I was so focused on the match, I never even noticed MVP behind me.” Lashley could send anyone, play whatever trick she wants, but he can’t prevent the inevitable. Lashley VS McIntyre for the WWE World Championship is happening at WrestleMania! Lashley says he never needed anyone’s help. Did McIntyre forget what Lashley did to him at Elimination Chamber? He almost ended McIntyre’s career! And in hindsight, Lashley should’ve. But Lashley promises that the mauling then will pale in comparison to what’s happening at Mania! McIntyre’s time is up! This is the ALL MIGHTY ERA!
Well, Lashley’s fired up. McIntyre likes that. But Lashley beat McIntyre at Chamber, that’s true. There’s no one as big, bad and dangerous as Lashley. If McIntyre didn’t exist, Lashley would be THE man in the WWE. But going after McIntyre like this, it only proves he’s afraid of McIntyre! Lashley pushes McIntyre, they brawl, and Lashley tackles McIntyre! McIntyre kicks Lashley away, runs into a clinch and gets knees, but he fights free with elbows! GLASGOW KISS and a BOOT! Lashley falls out of the ring and McIntyre shouts, “Is that all you got? You better bring more than that at WrestleMania, you son of a bitch!”
But then KING CORBIN attacks from behind?! SmackDown’s Wolf King is here and he brawls with McIntyre! Back Suplex SLAM! And then another! Corbin drags McIntyre up, eggs him on, but McIntyre rams him to a corner, and OVERHEAD Belly2Belly suplexes! McIntyre is furious, and he runs at Corbin, but into DEEP SIX! Corbin lets Lashley pick the bones and put on the HURT LOCK!! MVP says, “Ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you, the All Mighty WWE Champion.” This is a Mania preview! Lashley throws McIntyre down, Corbin tells him to do that again, so Lashley does!
McIntyre is a rag doll as Lashley leans on the hold! Lashley drops McIntyre, and MVP says, “Ladies and gentlemen, this is the Hurt Business.” Lashley makes McIntyre stare at the title belt. This is WAR! McIntyre crawls, but Lashley looms over him. Lashley hauls him back up and again puts on the HURT LOCK! McIntyre can only fade back out with Corbin shouting in his face, “How do YOU like it, Drew?!” The Rocky Mountain Machine finally lets McIntyre go, but will he be able to do this against McIntyre at Mania when it’s just 1v1?
My Thoughts:
A pretty good episode, but something just seemed to hold it back. The handling of Lashley putting the hit out on McIntyre was probably what didn’t blend well from last week to this week, especially with throwing the Hurt Business changing members. Benjamin and Alexander were let go and very upset about that, but wanting matches with Lashley seemed off. I was expecting Benjamin and Alexander would try to cash in on Lashley’s offer to the locker room and go after McIntyre first.
What was also off was McIntyre getting impatient about people going after him under Lashley’s offer. I know McIntyre’s return angle centered around wanting the superstars to step up and be sharks, but why let Lashley’s bounty on his head make him get jumpy like that? He gets in people’s faces, throws Carrillo, fights Garza, hits Gulak, then has matches with Ricochet and Ali, all considerably quickly. Seems like they’re trying to jam in a month of build into two weeks when all they needed was to bring up the Elimination Chamber attack like they did near the end. Have a face to face get physical, then debut Corbin as the new replacement in the Hurt Business.
Which is also confusing, actually. Is Corbin going to finally get rid of the King of the Ring gimmick? Is he being traded to Raw and someone will eventually be sent to SmackDown? Was this Brand to Brand Invitation without having time to say so? Maybe next week’s go-home helps with that, or even this week’s SmackDown. But either way, it all seems like we’re being rushed because somewhere along the way, Vince had an idea of how to build this feud of Lashley and McIntyre, didn’t think it through and is just filling in the gaps as quickly as he can.
Another thing that seems clunky is having a copypasta of WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions facing the brand’s top champion and her challenger. I liked the contract signing promos from Asuka and Rhea, and even Rhea being the first one to throw something, but we didn’t need Nia and Shayna coming out and goading Rhea into accepting a match for her and Asuka. Shayna and Nia wanting a Mania match should translate them to going to Adam Pearce, and he’ll make up some huge tag contender match for the go-home, Dana & Mandy VS Naomi & Lana, maybe even use Brand to Brand so Natalya & Tamina can join in, the Heels of Natty & Tamina taking the loss for I would think Naomi & Lana, given how Naomi won against Shayna because of multi-team chaos.
Riddle’s promo with Asuka was weird, too. I think he flubbed his lines and just had to bail because there was no time. Seems a shame, really, I felt like something was there. Sheamus VS Riddle was a great match, and of course it was leading to a US Championship match for Mania. That match will be on par, if not better, and could go either way. Sheamus might need the win more since he’s been on the losing end for a bit more, and Riddle hasn’t exactly had the strongest run as it is, either. Maybe Vince just has no idea what to do with Riddle past “Bro…!” and his behavior that comes off as annoying to other superstars.
Shane’s mockery of Braun was the usual doofiness WWE tends to bring to these kinds of things. Promos like this, with the fake pictures made up just for the promo and put on the titantron just aren’t hitting the mark like they used to, and honestly should just be stopped. Braun of course wins against Ryker, but again has the train sounds for his “Strowman Express” spot. Then him choosing a Steel Cage match was just an awful choice. Is it an unwritten rule that no one can ever remember the THOUSANDS of times when a cage match has NEVER stopped interference? It is just a guarantee that someone on Shane’s side will show up and help him against Braun, which sucks.
We got good promos from Orton and Alexa, and I’m hoping Alexa’s “hint” was the very subtle way of saying we are getting a Firefly Fun House match, as it’s not what Orton expects. It can start as a slug fest, they go backstage, and then things get trippy with the Firefly Fun House stuff where Orton loses and, like John Cena, is blinked out of WWE existence so he can take some time off or something. Then one day, unlike Cena, we get a puppet that is so clearly meant to be Orton joining Alexa in her playground.
I think the best stuff tonight was with the New Day, Styles and Omos. New Day have their game night idea, Styles literally plays along but Omos doesn’t. Omos is almost coming off the alpha of the two because he’s staying serious and focused. Woods VS Styles was a good match, and I’m a little surprised Omos got involved to get Styles disqualified. But Omos catching and throwing Kofi to then help Styles beat Woods down was pretty good. Omos is definitely going to be what makes or breaks the match, both in reality and in kayfabe. Omos did good with the power moves, he was able to run well for that corner body block, and I’m going to assume his finisher is the two-hand slam. It’ll come down to if Omos can keep up with the New Day once it’ll be a fair match, and he could be what costs him and Styles for making some kind of rookie mistake, which could be a good wrinkle in the story for him and Styles.
My Score: 8/10
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Who makes it in before the Deadline?
The Iron Survivor Challenges need their fifth entries, so TWO Last Chance Fatal 4 Ways are held to fill the field, just in time for Deadline!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge Last Chance Fatal 4: Cora Jade VS Jaida Parker VS Kelani Jordan VS Wren Sinclair; Wren wins and advances to WWE Deadline.
- NXT Tag Team Championships #1 Contenders Battle Royal: Myles Borne & Tavion Height win and will challenge for the titles at WWE Deadline.
- Karmen Petrovic VS Nikkita Lyons; Karmen wins.
- Gigi Dolin w/ Tatum Paxley VS Izzi Dame; Gigi wins.
- Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Last Chance Fatal 4: Cedric Alexander VS Eddy Thorpe VS Lexis King VS Axiom; Eddy wins and advances to WWE Deadline.
PLAY BY PLAY
Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge Last Chance Fatal 4: Cora Jade VS Jaida Parker VS Kelani Jordan VS Wren Sinclair!
With Sol Ruca, Stephanie Vaquer, Giulia & Zaria all waiting, the final spot will finally be filled! But who overcomes these steep odds to then take part in the most exciting 25 minutes of action this Saturday at Deadline?
The bell rings and the four watch each other. Jaida goes after Kelani and Cora is after Wren! The fans duel, Kelani headlocks while Cora puts Wren in a corner. Jaida shoves Kelani into Cora, then Jaida and Wren each roll the others up! Double cover, TWO! Both Kelani and Cora are up, but Kelani cradles Jaida and Wren backslides! Another double cover, TWO! The fans fire up as the four stare down. Wren runs up on Kelani but Kelani dodges to headlock Jaida again. Cora storms up, Kelani BOOTS her, then Kelani BOOTS Wren! Kelani hits a headlock takeover, Jaida headscissors, but Kelani moves around!
Kelani jackknife bridges, TWO as Jaida bridges up! The fans fire up as Jaida spins Kelani, but Wren sits them both down! Wren pushes them both over, double cover! Cora sunset flips Wren! Kelani ghost pins Cora! Jaida breaks that up and all four women back up again! The fans fire up, Cora and Kelani run at each other. Kelani TOSSES Cora, but Wren runs up! Kelani DECKS Wren, then dodges Jaida to slingshot ARM-DRAG! Jaida tumbles into Wren, and Kelani SHOTGUNS them both! The fans fire up as Kelani kips up, and she builds speed, only for Cora to trip her! Cora drags Kelani out while fans boo, and Cora ROCKS Kelani!
Cora brings Kelani around to RAM into the apron! And then she RAMS Kelani into barriers! And then more- NO, Kelani stops to go up, QUEBRADA! Down goes Cora and the fans fire up again! Kelani hurries back into the ring, then aims to TORNILLO PLANCHA! Down go Wren and Jaida! Kelani doesn’t stop, she puts Jaida right back in! Kelani climbs a corner, CROSSBODIES, but Jaida rolls through with it! Jaida picks Kelani up but Cora’s up top! MISSILE DROPKICK! Cora hurries to cover Jaida, but Kelani YANKS her back! They argue, but Wren RAMS Cora into Kelani and O’Conner Rolls Cora! TWO, but Wren rolls Kelani! TWO!
Cora runs up to DOUBLE LARIAT Kelani and Wren! The fans boo but Cora ELBOWS Wren against ropes! Then Cora has IMPLODER STOMPS for Kelani! Cora runs to KNEE Wren in a corner! The fans boo but Jaida CLUBS Cora! Jaida puts Cora in ropes, right over Wren! The fans fire up as Jaida lines up her shot, DOUBLE TIER TEAR DROP!! Miss Parker high steps it and says this is her time and HER ring! #JaidaDon’tPlay, but NXT goes to break!
NXT returns and Jaida has Kelani up top! Jaida CLUBS Kelani, but then Cora CLUBS Jaida! Cora joins in on this, for a TOWER OF DOOM!! Kelani flounders away, but then Wren YANKS Cora out! Wren DECKS Cora, covers Jaida, TWO!! Wren hurries to cover Kelani, TWO!! Cora is back and she DECKS Wren! Cora runs up to SHINING WIZARD Wren in the corner, then she runs to SHINING WIZARD Jaida! SHINING WIZARD for- NO, Kelani catches Cora to RUNNING POWERBOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Cora survives, Wren BULLDOGS Kelani! Cover, TWO!! Jaida whips Wren to SPINEBUSTER! High stack, Cora SWANTON BOMBS it! Cover, TWO!!
The fans are thunderous for “NXT! NXT!” but Cora is losing her cool. Roxanne Perez is watching backstage, mildly impressed by her bestie. Cora CHOKES Kelani on the ropes, then runs in, but Kelani dodges the elbow! Kelani blocks a kick, steps over, WHEEL KICK! Wren runs up to kick Kelani and underhook! BUTTERFLY PLEX! Jaida runs up, Wren dodges and hops on, GUILLOTINE FACELOCK! Jaida endures, fights out, and she hits a FALCON ARROW! Cover, Kelani breaks it! Kelani kicks at Jaida but Jaida ducks it! Jaida back suplexes, Kelani lands out! Kelani goes to a corner, Jaida blocks a boot, but Kelani AX KICKS her down!
Kelani goes up, FIVE STAR onto Jaida and Wren!! Cover, Cora breaks it! Kelani and Cora argue, and Cora shoves “Baby” Lani! Kelani ROCKS Cora, but then Cora ENZIGIRIS Kelani! Kelani falls out of the ring, Cora is down, and Jaida crawls to Wren. Cora crawls after Jaida to cover her first, TWO! Cora covers Wren, TWO! Cora is losing her mind again, but she reels Wren up! Wren fights to a cradle! TWO!! Cora escapes, kicks low, then reels Wren in. But Kelani handsprings in to LARIAT! Wren still takes a DDT! Kelani hurries up top, aims at Cora, 450 SPLASH!! Cover, but Jaida SLAMS Wren onto it!
Jaida stands Kelani up to put her in the corner! Jaida CLUBS Kelani, runs side to side, but Lola’s there! Jaida puts on the brakes, the URAKEN hits Wren!! But then Lola drags Jaida out of the ring! Wren falls onto Cora, it’s a cover!! WREN WINS!!
Winner: Wren Sinclair, by pinfall (advances to WWE Deadline)
Refs hurry to stop Lola and Jaida in their brawl, but the fans are thunderous for #WrenXT lucking out! Charlie Dempsey helps Wren up and tells her what happened! Wren is excited as anyone that she’s going to Deadline, but can she pull off the underdog win in the Iron Survivor Challenge?
Backstage interview with Eddy Thorpe.
Sarah Schreiber is with the Alpha Wolf, and she has to say how surprised he’s even preparing for the Men’s Last Chance Fatal 4 Way after last week. He put his hands on the NXT General Manager, which led her to getting hurt, and then Shawn Michaels shoved Eddy right up against a wall. Eddy says HBK and Ava are letting him compete tonight because after everyone watched the tape back, it showed he did nothing wrong. So now, Eddy has a fair chance. He will win this thing, then become the Iron Survivor for him, and his people. Lexis King walks over and wants to say something.
Lexis knows he and Eddy are gonna be throwing hands later, but Eddy has to learn to control his temper. Lexis understands how hard it is to control anger, but being a loose cannon won’t get you anywhere. Eddy tells Lexis that he’s not taking advice from a grown man with daddy issues. Lexis says he has already proven he is not his father. And now he has the opportunity to do something his father never did, and that is win a major singles title in the WWE. It starts tonight. Should Eddy be suspended? That’s not Lexis’ call, he’s not the GM. But Lexis knows that it can be very frustrating. Lexis puts his hand on Eddy’s shoulder but Eddy tells him hands off.
Eddy says he’ll see Lexis in the ring, then storms off. Lexis says tonight isn’t about Eddy, it’s about The King. Lexis thanks Sarah for the interview, but will either Lexis or Eddy be the final man in the Iron Survivor Challenge?
Jaida Parker storms back to the ring!
Miss Parker has a mic and she’s calling out Lola! If Lola wants her NXT Underground match, then BET! Let’s take the ropes down now and just do it here! Jaida tells everyone to do it, and she has that brick again! Are she and the Mayor of Vice City about to have it out right here, right now? We’ll see, after the break!
NXT returns and…
Yep, the ropes are being undone! Jaida is in the ring watching it happen, and she tells Lola, “I thought I made it crystal clear, baby, when I smashed that brick on your skull. But clearly, you wanna cost me my qualifier match not once but twice! So you know what that means: we gotta this s*it back! OH, BABY, BABY! You want this Underground match? I’ll give you what you want! But b*tch, I ain’t leavin’ this damn ring until you get yo’ ass out here, right now!” But instead of Lola, it’s Ava! And Ava understands the frustration, the anger, and Ava is more than happy to give Jaida a match with Lola. Just not tonight.
The fans boo but Ava wants everyone to understand, Jaida can’t do two matches in one night. However… This Saturday at Deadline, it will be Jaida Parker VS Lola Vice, IN THE NXT UNDERGROUND! So all this passion, that’s great, but- Here comes Lola! Lola tells Miss Parker that she must be stupid! Jaida’s ego just did Lola the biggest favor. This is Lola’s world and Jaida knows nothing about it! No pins, no ropes, and this time, ain’t no brick, so Lola knocks Jaida’s ass out! Jaida says she don’t need it. She tosses the brick to Lola, then ELBOWS Lola in the face! Down goes Lola and Jaida says what up! These two are going Underground, but who ends up buried there?
Brinley Reece & Dion Lennox talk with Karmen Petrovic backstage.
They know she’s up against Nikkita Lyons tonight, and they tell her to do her thing. Karmen says Brin was so right about Adonis. She is so done with him. Brin says hold on, Karmen might be seeing things out of context. Yeah, Brin doesn’t like Adonis much either, but credit where credit is due, he genuinely likes Karmen. Karmen says that’s why she’s gonna beat up Lyons. Dion says he saw that text. Girl was saying some crazy stuff. B-But that was weeks ago! Karmen says yeah, she gets it, it’s just that- Oh, roses are being delivered? Guess who those are from? The card says sorry for upsetting Karmen, those texts were from before he met her, promise. And good luck tonight. From, Ashante.
Dion says well-played. Brin bops him in the arm, but Karmen is torn. Smooth, player, yet sweet? Karmen will go put these aside, then get ready. Brin & Dion cheer her on, is there still hope for the romcom to have a happy ending?
Nathan Frazer & Axiom are talking backstage.
Axiom says it is a big night for hm and that Last Chance Fatal 4, anyone can take it. Cedric Alexander, Eddy Thorpe, and though it’s surprising to say it, even Lexis King. But hey, he still likes his chances. What does Frazer think? Nathan’s focused on the TV. Nathan? NATHAN. Whoa, bud, why’re you yelling? Well Axiom asked Frazer something twice and Frazer ignored him. No, no, he’s just locked in on the tag team battle royal to determine who they’re facing at Deadline. Oh, now Frazer cares about that. Well, yes, he is! He has his worked cut out for him! He has to defend the tag titles then win the Iron Survivor Challenge.
Oh, wow, and what about Axiom? Well, him, too! Duh! That night will be tough for both of them! But if any two can pull it off, it’s them. Axiom says that’s true. Frazer says yes, Axiom just has to win his qualifier. W-Which he will! Obviously! But what was Axiom asking again? Axiom grumbles in Spanish, but will he win that Last Chance and join his tag partner for a very busy Saturday?
NXT Tag Team Championships #1 Contenders Battle Royal!
While Nathan Frazer is in the Iron Survivor, and Axiom’s place is still up in the air, all these teams care about is getting that gold off of them! Will it be The D’Angelo Family, Hank ‘n’ Tank, OTM, Gallus, Tyriek & Tyson or Myles & Heights that punch their tickets to Deadline?
NXT returns and a surprise seventh team has joined the match! It’s Josh Briggs & Yoshiki Inamura! That trip to Japan and Pro-Wrestling Noah helped Briggs find a new friend and tag partner, could they go all the way to the top together? The bell rings and the battle is on! Hank ‘n’ Tank are swinging wild, but Briggs & Inamura take them down! Briggs then CLOBBERS Stacks & Luca in a corner, while Inamura SWINGING SLAMS Myles! Then Briggs SLAMS Tyriek! Inamura adds a SPLASH! Then they both BOOT Coffey! They TOSS Wolfgang up and out, but then The D’Angelo Family goes after Inamura!
Mark gets back in, he fires hands on Briggs while The D’Angelos double whip Inamura. Inamura DOUBLE LARIATS them first! The fans fire up as Inamura TOSSESS Stacks, then TOSSES Luca! Inamura fires up but they’re safe on the apron. Briggs reminds Inamura that people have to touch the ground to be eliminated. Inamura says got it! But then The D’Angelos BOOT in return! Stacks helps Luca SLINGSHOT SHOULDER TACKLE! Briggs fires off on Stacks while Luca is after Inamura! It’s still rather chaotic, but Gallus is working together on Luca. Hank ‘n’ Tank fight off people, and Hank brawls with Tyson!
Tank helps Hank, they DOUBLE TOSS Tyson to ELIMINATE him! Tank says, “I wanna shake his hand,” and Tyson does shake hands out of respect. Tyriek is still in it for the team, but then Nima CLOBBERS him! Hank ROCKS Nima, Gallus brawls with NQCC and others. Price CHOPS Wolfgang against ropes and everyone hears it! Myles fights off Mark, Nima fights off Tyriek, and Luca lifts Heights. Hank RANKS Nima, Inamura RAMS Tank, Inamura CLUBS Luca. Luca CHOPS Inamura, but Inamura just nods! Inamura CHOPS Luca up and out to ELIMINATE him!! The fans are thunderous, but Inamura stares down Heights.
Heights was also part of the Noah trip, and he bows in respect to Inamura. Briggs BOOTS Heights for it! Briggs also tells Inamura to show no mercy! He TOSSES Heights and ELIMINATES him! Inamura is learning the American way, but then Gallus DOUBLE LARIATS Briggs up and out to ELIMINATE him! That’s the Scottish way! The brawling continues as Wolfgang CHOPS Inamura! Stacks fights off OTM, and he kicks Price to TORNADO- NO, Nima stops that, and he JUMP STOMPS Stacks down! OTM hauls Stacks up to TOSS him out onto the cluster! OTM ELIMINATES Stacks, no more D’Angelo Family! The fans are fired up while NXT goes to break.
NXT returns and it seems Gallus and Hank ‘n’ Tank are still full teams in this match. Myles fights back against Price but Then Tyriek CLUBS Myles. Gallus whips Hank ‘n’ Tank at each other, but they reverse! Mark & Wolfgang dosido, but Hank ‘n’ Tank DECK them both! The fans fire up with the blue collar boys while Myles fights off Price and Tyriek. Hank ‘n’ Tank say, “HONK, HONK!” They DOUBLE BELLY SANDWICH Gallus! The fans fire up as Hank ‘n’ Tank take the Gallus boys to the ropes! But then the lone members get involved! Hank fights off Tyriek with body shots, Mark ROCKS Price, but Price hits back.
Myles hits Price, and we get a quick picture in picture of Fraxiom still arguing about their split focus. Tyriek digs boots into Wolfgang, Tank fights off Price, and Myles ROCKS Mark! Mark ROCKS Myles! Hank whips Tyriek to ELBOW him down! Hank hauls Tyriek up to whip, but Tyriek ELBOWS him away! Hank and Tyriek clinch at the ropes, Tank runs up to CLUB Tyriek! Tank shoves Tyriek, he and Hank lift! Tyson cheers Tyriek on, but Tyriek still falls! Hank ‘n’ Tank ELIMINATE Ty & Ty! And Tyriek is not about shaking hands like Tyson was! Tyson has to keep Tyriek from getting back in the ring, but Mark CLOBBERS Hank!
Hank tumbles up and out to the floor!! Tyriek pulling on the ropes helps Mark ELIMINATE Hank!! Hank can’t believe it, and now he wants at Tyriek! The fans are torn, but now Tank has to go it alone. Tank says all the lone wolves need to team up against Gallus, and it seems Myles and Price agree! The three run up, Gallus dodge Price to CLOBBER Tank and Myles! Then Gallus mugs Price. Price shoves them back, but they hit him with a DOUBLE NELSON SLAM! Tank runs up, Gallus TOSSES him! Hank catches Tank! The fans are thunderous, but then Gallus has Myles by his legs! Hank helps Tank back in, Myles gets FLUNG away!
Gallus roars but the fans boo. Wolfgang runs up to CANNONBALL Tank in a corner! Mark DROPKICKS Price in another! Wolfgang adds a CANNONBALL on Price, Mark DROPKICKS Tank! They repeat the process, then go back to Myles! CATAPULT and Myles goes up and out! But he lands on the apron! Myles ROCKS Mark, ducks Wolfgang, and Price DUMPS Wolfgang to ELIMINATE him! Tank LARIATS Mark out, GALLUS IS DONE!! The fans are thunderous as now Myles, Tank and Price are the final three! These three start throwing hands and the fans love it! Myles ROCKS Tank but Tank ROCKS Myles!
Tank ROCKS Price, Price BOOTS Myles! Tank dodges Price to fire haymakers! But Price hits back! Price BOOTS Myles, STOMPS Tank, and he roars! But Myles uses Tank as a launchpad! Price still catches him, to SLAM him onto Tank! Price is unleashed and the fans are electric! Price hauls Myles up, but the fans rally with Tank! Price fireman’s carries but Tank goes up, FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE!! Tank takes out both Price and Myles and the fans are going wild! Hank coaches Tank, “This is Awesome!” Tank fires hands on Price, then he and Myles work together! They put Price up top, climb up, but Price fights them both off!
Price steadies himself, but Tank and Myles each hit ropes! Price is stuck on the top, but Tank DUMPS Myles out! Myles RAMS Tank, slingshots in, and he LARIATS Tank up and out TO ELIMINATE HIM!! Myles DROPKICKS Price to the floor, NQCC WINS!!!
Winners: Myles Borne & Tavion Heights (NEW #1 Contenders to the NXT Tag Team Championships)
The fans are shocked! Wren won her spot earlier tonight, and then her boys bust out a comeback win! Will Deadline be where NQCC starts dripping with gold?
Eric Bischoff is here!
The fans go wild as the WWE Hall of Famer, longtime Raw General Manager and one of the creative minds behind WCW is finally live on an NXT show! Bischoff goes to the ring and grabs a mic. The fans cheer, “N W O! N W O!” Bischoff says no, NXT! This place is undeniable! But what’s also undeniable is the fact that Bischoff has always been on the cutting edge of pro-wrestling! He created Nitro to go head to head with Monday Night Raw! He revolutionized the industry, and that feeling was awesome. When he turned the New World Order loose on WCW, it revolutionized the industry, and that feeling was awesome!
But y’know what? When Bischoff walked through these doors today for the very first time, that same feeling was awesome! The revolution is happening here in NXT, and you get to be part of it! The fans cheer for NXT and Bischoff says when he saw “the amazing array of talent that holds the future of this industry in the palm of their hands, they have the ability to take this business to the stratosphere. And two very important pieces of the NXT puzzle, who happen to be competing for the NXT title this Saturday night at Deadline, happen to be my guests tonight.” So ladies and gentlemen, first up is Ridge Holland!
The fans boo as the Yorkshire Grit makes his way out, and he grins as he soaks it in. Ridge goes to the ring, and now Bischoff introduces the NXT Champion, Trick Williams! The fans fire up as Tricky Two-Time Two-Time makes his way to the ring. Trick is also fired up as he steps into the ring. Bischoff says he could not wait for the opportunity to see these two up close and in person. The intrigue and the tension is palpable. You could cut it with a chainsaw! Bischoff looks at Ridge, and he is the antithesis of what a WWE Superstar should be. And don’t take that the wrong way! Bischoff means that as a compliment.
Ridge just feels like a throwback to Bischoff’s childhood. The Crusher, Dick the Bruiser, guys who just took no prisoner, walked through walls and took whatever they want, with no apologies to anyone. And then Trick Williams. Wow. Trick is like the evolution of the revolution! A collegiate athlete with the power, size, speed, look and charisma! He’s got it all! And seeing these two together, Bischoff just can’t wait to see what develops. Is Ridge with him on that? Ridge talks to Trick but the fans boo. Ridge says Trick is nothing but a stand-up comedian with abs! He’s an insult to the vision of what NXT should be!
The fans boo more but Ridge says Bischoff can come out here to sing Trick’s praises, the fans can chant Trick’s name all they want. But at Deadline, Ridge will win the NXT Championship. And when he does, he won’t have to listen to antagonists like Bischoff. The fans chant, “Ridge is a wanker!” but Ridge laughs that off, and says he won’t have to listen to has-been wrestling podcasters who hang on to their last bit of relevancy. Ridge won’t have to listen to the fans, either! Because the future will be in HIS hands. And when Ridge squeezes it by the throat, it will go wherever he says to.
Trick says Ridge is built like a fridge, and did all that to destroy Chase U, just to chase Trick. But Trick’s problem with Ridge is that Ridge ain’t original! Ridge uses everyone else’s jokes, everyone else’s material, and Trick sees through him. Ridge is bland. Ridge is vanilla. Ridge is BORING. And don’t let Trick’s flash fool you, because he’ll take the ice off his wrist and give Ridge a cold ass whooping right now! Ridge wishes he had what Trick has and he knows it! Ridge laughs that off, too, and says this is the arrogance talking. Ridge doesn’t need what Trick has. Ridge could not look himself in the mirror if he had what Trick had.
See, Ridge already proved what he’s about when he destroyed Chase U. He proved what he’s about when he beat Trick in Philly. Trick stands here, 6’4″, flashy from head to toe, and nothing is shinier than that NXT Championship on Trick’s shoulder. But yeah, they came up different, that’s true. Trick played American football, covered in pads, referees looking out for his safety. Ridge risked it all as he destroyed other men playing rugby, a man’s game. No one has told Trick before, because they’re all just caught up in the “aura,” but not Ridge. Ridge is looking Trick dead in the eyes, staring into his soul, telling Trick that Trick is SOFT.
The fans boo but Ridge tells Trick to look him in the eyes. Ridge says that at Deadline, he puts Trick down, and he will leave NXT Champion! Oh, what’s that? Trick is soft? Trick ROCKS Ridge! The hands start flying, and Trick TACKLES Ridge! The fans fire up, Ridge gets loose and gets out of the ring! Trick just pursues! But then Ridge RAMS him into the apron! And then RAMS him into the steel steps! Trick writhes but Ridge isn’t done! Ridge clears the desk, Booker T & Vic Joseph get clear, and Ridge puts Trick on the desk! Ridge gets up, and he lifts Trick for THE REDEEMER!! The desk does not break but Ridge may have just broken Trick!
Refs rush out here, they tell Ridge to stop while also calling to medics! Ridge grins while fans boo, and Bischoff is stunned. A stretcher is brought over, did Ridge do so much damage that Deadline’s match will be called off?
NXT returns and…
Sarah Schreiber reports that Trick was loaded into an ambulance, and Ava Raine went with him. When asked about the title match, Ava said, “Honestly, I just don’t know.” Updates will be on the way, but will Trick even be able to return to the ring at all after what Ridge just did?
Karmen Petrovic VS Nikkita Lyons!
They say all is fair in love and war, and right now, this might be a war for love! Both women are martial artists who capture the eyes of many men, but will Karmen kick Nikkita to the curb for coming after Ashante THEE Adonis? Or is the Lyoness going to pounce?
The bell rings, the two lethal ladies step up, and Lyons shoves! Karmen kicks, Lyons ducks! Lyons kicks, Karmen ducks! Lyons jumps over the sweep but so does Karmen, and the fans applaud this opening exchange. Lyons trips Karmen, has a leg, but Karmen kicks with her other leg. Lyons comes back to fire knee after knee, then whips. Karmen kicks low, KICKS again, then again! Lyons blocks and shakes her head, but Karmen SPIN HEEL KICKS! Karmen whips, Lyons reverses, but Karmen goes up to SOBAT! Karmen runs up but Lyons blocks the lariat to THROW Karmen away! Then SPIN HEEL KICK of her own!!
The fans fire up as Lyons rains down fists, and she CLUBS Karmen. Lyons taunts Karmen, then CHOKES her on the ropes! The ref counts and Lyons stops at 4. Lyons stalks Karmen to a corner, fires more shots, then drops it like it’s hot as she HIP ATTACKS! Lyons struts, but Karmen BOOTS, then ENZIGIRIS! Roll up, TWO! Lyons gets up to BOOT Karmen down! Cover, TWO! Lyons clamps onto Karmen with a chinlock and she leans on the hold. The fans rally up, Karmen fights to her feet, and Karmen fires body shots. Lyons shoves Karmen, runs up, but Karmen ducks! The boot gets stuck on ropes, and Karmen ROCKS Lyons!
Karmen CHOPS, ROCKS, and SOBATS! Karmen runs, and DISCUS LARIATS! The fans fire up and Karmen brings Lyons up. Karmen KICKS, KICKS and KICKS, but Lyons ducks! So Karmen HEEL KICKS! Karmen runs to SLINGBLADE! Cover, TWO! Lyons is tougher than that and Karmen thinks on what to do. Karmen runs up at the corner but Lyons gets around! GERMAN SUPLEX! Lyons storms to the corner, goes up and up, and VADER FLOP as Karmen moves! The fans fire up but here comes Adonis! Adonis cheers Karmen on, even helps her to her feet. The ref says no, Adonis has to go.
Lyons runs up, Adonis pushes Karmen aside and he takes the HAYMAKER for her! Lyons says well fine, be that way! But then Karmen ROUNDHOUSES Lyons! Cover, Karmen wins!
Winner: Karmen Petrovic, by pinfall
Adonis smiles, his girl won! He wants a hug, but Karmen shakes her head. He interfered in the match! His gesture from earlier is now negated, will Adonis ever win Karmen over?
Shawn Spears talks with his followers.
Niko Vance did a wonderful job! Tony D didn’t even see Niko coming! Jensen wants to ask what’s next. They took Tony down but Tony is still champion. Spears says to remember the long game. Look what Tony has built. Look how successful The D’Angelo Family has become. But with the talent that Spears’ side has, they can achieve even more. Now, Spears has spent months cultivating Niko, and he is almost ready to be unleashed. They are just missing one more thing. He spots Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley walking and talking, and he walks over. He welcomes Gigi back. And much like Tatum, he is looking forward to Gigi’s in-ring return. They’ll be watching.
Gigi says gee, thanks. Tatum says Spears is so creepy. And yeah, that’s coming from her! Gigi & Tatum continue on to gorilla, will Hell’s Favorite Harlot remind everyone, especially The Fatal Influence, who they’re dealing with?
No Quarter Catch Crew regroups backstage.
Heights is fired up because he and Myles are gonna be the next NXT Tag Team Champions! Dempsey says he knows he can be a bit harsh on everyone, but the three of them tonight really impressed him. Even Wren! Wow, thanks, Charles. Dempsey says he brought the Heritage Cup to the NQCC, and this Saturday, he knows Myles & Tavion will win those tag titles. Myles says no one thought they’d win, and look what happened! Tavion says they’ll help Fraxiom focus on their singles goals by taking those tag titles from them! Wren says they’ll do so good. And what about Miss Iron Survivor here? Wren says she hasn’t really won anything yet.
Maybe, but with that luck on her side, just look how she fell into that victory! Wren says things went exactly as planned. But now, Saturday, Deadline, time to bring the win into the WrenQCC! Dempsey wants to correct that but he’ll let her have this one. Will the crew show all their opponents no quarter until they’re the ones holding gold?
Gigi Dolin w/ Tatum Paxley VS Izzi Dame!
The once toxic Gigi is back, ready to clean up the mess The Fatal Influence has made of NXT. But will she start with the would-be It Girl? Or will Gigi see that It Iz What It Iz?
The bell rings, Izzi and Gigi circle, then tie up. Gigi waistlocks, wrenches, and hammerlocks, then she snapmares Izzi into a chinlock. Izzi endures, pulls hair and fights up. The Fatal Influence is watching this backstage as Izzi fights up and YANKS Gigi’s arm. Izzi wrenches to a wristlock but Gigi rolls, bridges, and KICKS Izzi away. Gigi then wrenches Izzi but Izzi headlocks. Gigi wrenches and WRINGS Izzi out, and Izzi gets frustrated. Izzi runs up, Gigi sidesteps and drops down. Gigi then hurries up to blow past Izzi, and tilt-o-whirl RANA! The fans fire up while Izzi flounders, and Gigi runs to DROPKICK against the ropes! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally and Spears walks out here to indeed watch this match. Gigi whips, Izzi reverses, but Gigi dodges Izzi in the corner! Gigi ROUNDHOUSES from the apron, goes up, and CROSSBODIES! Cover, ONE!! Izzi is tougher than that, and she knees low. Izzi whips then kitchen sink knees Gigi down! Gigi flounders, Izzi storms up and stomps away! The ref counts, Izzi lets off at 4, then she stands Gigi up. Izzi fireman’s carries to FLAPJACK! Gigi flounders again and Izzi runs to DOUBLE STOMP! Gigi sputters and gets out of the ring, but Izzi is right after her. Izzi puts Gigi in the ring, then she BOOTS Tatum just because!
The fans boo as Izzi storms in to BOOT Gigi! Cover, TWO! Gigi stays in this but Izzi has the legs. Izzi pulls and turns Gigi over, HALF CRAB! Gigi endures and the fans rally up. Gigi tucks and rolls to then KICK Izzi from below! Gigi stands, Iziz runs up, but Gigi fires a forearm, kick and KNEE! Gigi shrieks and CLOBBERS Izzi! And CLOBBERS her again! Gigi wrenches to ROUNDHOUSE! Izzi staggers, Gigi ripcords, RAINMAKER! Cover, TWO and Izzi cradles! TWO, and Gigi runs up! But into a FLAPJACK HOTSHOT! Izzi then reels Gigi in, whips her to a corner, and runs up. Gigi dodges and Izzi POSTS herself!
Gigi reels Izzi back in, clamps on, G G DRIVER!! Cover, Gigi wins!
Winner: Gigi Dolin, by pinfall
Spears is certainly impressed, and Tatum celebrates with her new bestie! Will they soon take the fight to Fallon, Jacy & Jazmyn?
Backstage interview with Je’Von Evans.
Sarah is with the Young OG and says in a few minutes, we will see the Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Last Chance Fatal 4 Way! Any predictions? Yes, he of course has to go with Uncle Cedric. Cedric’s been going a bit crazy and… Wait! Is that X-Pac?! Pac says hey to Je’Von, and he has been watching. X-Pac’s a big fan of Je’Von, he’s been doing some great stuff. Je’Von is fan struck because X-Pac is a fan of him! Je’Von is a big fan of X-Pac’s too. X-Pac says he and Je’Von have a lot in common. X-Pac was the same age as Je’Von when he got that big 1-2-3 over Razor Ramon, that was the biggest moment of his career.
You see, becoming a TWO-TIME WWE Hall of Famer for both the nWo and Degeneration X, none of that would’ve happened without that first win. Now look, X-Pac believes in Je’Von, Je’Von has a real shot at the Iron Survivor. He can do it! X-Pac believes in Je’Von. Je’Von is so honored, and then X-Pac throws up the Too Sweet! Je’Von fan boys again, and yeah, Too Sweet~! Je’Von says he’s gonna go crazy on Saturday! Will the Young OG get his biggest win ever when it’s time for Deadline?
Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge Last Chance Fatal 4: Cedric Alexander VS Eddy Thorpe VS Lexis King VS Axiom!
PRIMED Alexander, Alpha Wolf, Drama King or Undeniable Truth. Only one can join that field of five, so who defies the odds to then jump right into another high stakes match in Minnesota?
NXT returns as Frazer is with Axiom as his corner man, and Cedric makes his entrance. Eddy makes his entrance, and all four men are ready. We see Ethan Page has joined commentary, and Wes Lee watches from the perch so he can literally look down on everyone. Je’Von is in the crowd and Ethan says that’s where Je’Von belongs because he’s a glorified fan. The bell rings, Eddy BOOTS Lexis! Axiom clamps onto Eddy, Eddy backs him into a corner, and Cedric runs up. Eddy doges, the CHOP hits Axiom! Cedric and Eddy ROCK each other, then Cedric runs Eddy over. Things speed up, Eddy hurdles then CROSSBODIES! Cover, Axiom breaks it!
Axiom CLUBS Eddy into a ghost pin, ONE as Eddy fireman’s carries Axiom! But Lexis DROPKICKS Eddy into the Crucifix Driver! The fans fire up as Axiom gets up, and Lexis SUPERKICKS him down! Cedric runs up, Lexis bypasses and hurdles, but Cedric rolls over the dropdown. Lexis runs, Cedric dodges, but Lexis comes back to RANA! The fans fire up with lexis and he builds speed, only for Axiom to GAMANGIRI! Axiom then goes up top, but Lexis avoids the leap! Eddy is back, he throws Axiom but Axiom SHOTGUNS Lexis! Eddy runs up to LARAIT Axiom up and out! Cedric trips Eddy!
Eddy sits up, avoids a kick, and he rolls Cedric! ONE, and Cedric rolls Eddy! TWO, and both men stand. Eddy dodges, Cedric ends up on the apron but he BOOTS back! Step in and FLATLINER! The fans fire up as Cedric covers, but Axiom steps on Cedric to launch and SHOTGUN Lexis! The fans fire up, Je’Von cheers on Unc, but Axiom fires forearms! Cedric CHOPS in return! Axiom CHOPS back! Cedric says they can do better than that! The CHOPS go back and forth, then DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Cedric falls first but the fans fire up again. Cedric rises, runs, but Axiom dodges. They both DIVE onto Eddy and Lexis!
The fans fire up as Cedric and Axioms tare down from across the way. They both step in, the fans rally up and Cedric dodges Axiom. Axiom comes back but into a SPANISH FLY! Cover, Lexis AND Eddy break it! All four men are down and the fans are thunderous as NXT goes to break!
NXT returns and Eddy is up top, with Axiom and Cedric working together as they climb up. The fans fire up, and Lexis slips in! Lexis adds on for a TOWER OF DOOM!! The fans are thunderous for the double powerbomb superplex combo! Lexis aims from a corner, waiting for someone to stand. Lexis runs up to LARIAT Cedric in the corner! And then CHOP! Axiom runs up but is sent into Cedric! Lexis O’Conner Rolls Axiom, but then Cedric runs up! NORTHERN LIGHTS added on top! DOUBLE COVER, TWO!!! The fans fire up and Lexis stays hot! Wes isn’t impressed but Lexis builds speed to FLY! Down go Cedric and Axiom!!
Je’Von says okay, that was legit! Lexis has the fans fired up for once, and he puts Cedric in the ring. Lexis climbs up, aims, and SWANTON BOMBS on Cedric! Cover, Eddy breaks it! Eddy drags Lexis up, fires forearms, then KICKS! KICKS! KICKS! SOBAT! Cedric is up, Eddy gets around, SNAP GERMAN! BOOT for Lexi sin a corner! Axiom is in, but Eddy has him for a BRAINBUSTER!! Cover, TWO!! Axiom survives that sheer drop and Frazer is antsy for his amigo. “This is Awesome!’ as Eddy runs up, but Cedric URENAGES! Then LIONSAULTS! Wes is now impressed, and Axiom wrenches to CHOP Cedric!
Axiom goes up and up to FLYING RANA! But Lexis has Axiom! Axiom has Lexis in a cradle! TWO!! Axiom KNEES Lexis down, and GAMANGIRIS Eddy up top! Eddy wobbles, Axiom climbs, and Axiom SUPER SPANISH FLIES!! Cover, TWO!!! But into an ARMBAR!! Eddy flails, clasps hands, kicks around, but Axiom breaks the grip! But Cedric is up top! FROG SPLASH on Axiom!! But he bounces off the cover! Ethan is quiet, Je’Von fires up, and Cedric goes up and out to join Eddy on the apron! APRON SIDE EFFECT! Cedric gets up and he BOOTS Lexis! Step-in, but Lexis UPPERCUTS! Lexis runs, but into a scoop, MICHINOKU DRIVER!! Cover, EDDY SUPERKICKS IT APART!
Eddy swings on Axiom, but into a HALF ‘N’ HALF! The fans fire up again and Axiom runs up on Lexis! GOLDEN RATIO!! Cover, Eddy YANKS Axiom out!! Eddy snipes the cover, EDDY WINS!!
Winner: Eddy Thorpe, by pinfall (advances to WWE Deadline)
The Alpha Wolf actually impresses All Ego with his opportunistic move. But at the same time, this is just how the Iron Survivor Challenge is gonna feel, is Eddy more than ready for his moment in Minnesota?
Frazer is talking smack on his Iron Survivor opponents, but Axiom points out that Myles & Heights are standing on stage. Will Fraxiom make it through the NQCC with gold still around their waist?
Ava calls Robert Stone & Stevie Turner.
The NXT GM trusts her assistants are handling things. Stevie says don’t worry, everything is going exceptionally well. But she does have to ask, what’s the latest on Trick? Ava says they’re still here, he is still being checked by doctors, but Trick is also very insistent that they go through with the match on Saturday. Stone says, “Even with what Ridge just did to him?” Ava knows, but Trick is adamant about it. As it stands, we are still getting Trick VS Ridge for the NXT Championship. She’ll get back when she can, keep holding it down. Stone & Stevie say will do, and the call ends.
Stevie says, “Damn, Trick. That guy’s a fighter.” Stone nods in agreement. Will Trick really be able to pull off the win when Ridge nearly broke him? Or will NXT soon be in the Yorkshire Grit Era?
Cora Jade meets with Stevie & Stone.
She complains that Kelani is the only reason Cora’s not going to Deadline! It is always someone getting in her way of wanting to go where she wants to go. Stevie says it was a Fatal 4 Way, every woman for herself, deal with it. Cora grumbles that she hates this place. Cora storms out, Eddy steps in and says he used to feel the same way. But uh, where’s Ava? Still helping Trick at the hospital. Oh, of course, she’s with the champ. Well, just let the GM know that she did the right thing by not suspending him. When given the opportunity, Eddy always succeeds. And on Saturday, he WILL be the Iron Survivor. No one is more deserving.
Eddy leaves, Stevie asks if it’s just her, or is everyone just really pissed off? Stone wants to speak, but in steps…? Stevie & Stone get very serious, just who is it paying them a visit?
Roxanne Perez heads to the ring!
We already knew the NXT Women’s Champion was here tonight, but the fans boo as The Prodigy actually makes her way out here. Roxie grabs a mic to say, “Deadline is this Saturday, and it could be lifechanging. I mean, I’m sure the five women in the Iron Survivor Challenge are used to waking up on Christmas morning to find no presents under the tree. But for one lucky lady, they’ll be getting a gift-wrapped title shot courtesy of The Prodigy, your two-time NXT Women’s Champion. But trust me, it’s not gonna be easy. And that’s speaking from experience as the first winner of the very first Iron Survivor.”
Roxie says that win changed everything for her. She knows exactly what it takes, which is why it is so sad that they’re all just fighting to be second place! Nobody beats The Prodigy! Unfortunately for five fan favorites, it’s a dead end. Congrats to Wren, though, who we all saw qualify earlier. No one believed in her, just like no one believed in Roxie. Wren could be the next Roxie 2022! The only problem is, Wren can’t beat the Roxie of 2024. Then there’s Sol Ruca. Sol was the first to qualify, and is always one Sol Snatcher away from the big one. But she ain’t snatching Roxie! No one beats The Prodigy, not even the fans’ chosen one!
It was supposed to be Giulia last time, right? But they can never beat Roxie when it counts. And she knows what the fans will say: Stephanie Vaquer and Zaria have each pinned Roxie in tag matches! True. But Roxie already proved that regardless of if you traveled the whole wide world, it is still too small compared to stepping in this ring with Roxie. NOBODY beats The Prodigy! But wait, here comes Sol! Sol pretends she couldn’t hear Roxie back there, and Roxie knew Sol would be the first to come out here. But wait! Here comes Zaria! And Vaquer! And now Giulia! Roxie is starting to get worried as the ring is starting to get crowded.
Roxie says yeah, look, this is exactly what it is all about. But remember, you have to get through each other before you can get to Roxie~! And so the four brawl! Sol kicks Zaria, Zaria kicks Sol, and Wren YANKS Roxie outta the ring! Wren DECKS Roxie, and then holds up the belt! Wren taunts Roxie, did The Prodigy just bite off more than she can chew?
A ref is shouting for medical backstage!
Wait, what happened? Cameras check in the locker room, and EDDY THORPE IS OUT COLD!! Lexis and the other competitors from tonight’s main event are there, but no one knows whodunnit! Will Eddy be able to make it to Deadline now? Or will Ava have to scramble the next three days to figure out who can?
My Thoughts:
A great episode of NXT, with a lot of drama and excitement given this was a go-home with stakes. Though they also snuck in other story, such as Karmen’s romcom drama with Adonis. Good promo before the match, very good match from Karmen VS Lyons, and I figured Adonis would show up. Adonis helping Karmen win was just a touch surprising, but I guess it’s logical for her to be upset that he thought she’d need his help. This story will surely keep going, and logically it’ll culminate for Vengeance Day, aka the Valentine’s Day special. And to me, it should be they lose some kind of mixed tag match, but the real victory is their relationship finally being official.
Good match from Gigi VS Izzi, and Shawn Spears logically wants a female member for the faction so this group matches The D’Angelo Family and No Quarter Catch Crew. Good win for Gigi, she and Tatum probably have a tag match with Jacy & Jazmyn first, then Gigi VS Fallon happens for the Women’s North American Championship. And I’m thinking it should be Izzi joining The Chair Man’s group, she needs something to do. Very good promo from Fraxiom to lead into the tag team battle royal, and that battle royal was awesome. In fact, I think that was the first time I heard the “This is Awesome!” chant for a battle royal. I really did not expect Myles & Heights to win, but we’re clearly getting a detour of Hank ‘n’ Tank VS Ty & Ty before either team goes for titles.
Very good promo segment with Bischoff, Ridge and Trick. Though, I’m sure we can all raise an eyebrow at Bischoff saying NXT is where the wrestling revolution is happening when he was helping AEW in its early days, then clearly had some kind of souring on the product. Also, not sure Trick’s point on Ridge copying people’s jokes and gimmicks is accurate. But his “fridge” line was a good reference to the Brawling Brutes stuff. Ridge “hurting” Trick here to put some extra drama on the match is fine, and it might be the only reason Trick loses. And really, at this point, for Ridge’s sake, it feels like he has to win because what else is there? The Brutes didn’t last long, Ridge used Chase U just to get to this point, he has to follow through and win the big one for himself.
And great stuff in both Iron Survivor Challenge stories. The women opening and closing the night was great stuff, and I loved the “accidental” win by Wren. HBK having done that himself, he clearly loves having that spot in Fatal 4 Ways, and Wren joining that loaded field for the Iron Survivor is great stuff. Great promo from Roxie to insult all five potential challengers, but then of course they show up to brawl and go after Roxie at the same time. But Wren kinda jinxed herself by taking out Roxie and holding up the belt. I feel like Roxie could drop this title at New Year’s Evil and then move on to Raw just in time for the Netflix move. In which case, I’m leaning towards Vaquer or Zaria.
The men’s match was a great main event, and we got good promos leading into it. Je’Von meeting X-Pac and getting to Too Sweet was great stuff, and Ethan got to do all his talking on commentary. Lexis and Eddy making this slow double turn with each other has been a great process, and factoring in Fraxiom’s promo earlier, I’m a little surprised it wasn’t Axiom who won out. But with that, Fraxiom could lose the tag titles, and that therefore breaks up the team. Or the breakup could happen during the match and that costs them the titles. But either way, I don’t really see Frazer winning the Iron Survivor.
Eddy winning here tonight was only partly surprising, as he was a logical runner-up to Axiom. Plus, there’s his story of being cocky about himself and disgruntled with management, but I did NOT see another whodunnit happening. Though, WWE sure likes using the same thing multiple times this year. There have been multiple special guest referee matches, and now there have been multiple secret attacks. The Monday Night Raw mystery seems a bit more open and shut with McIntyre’s return last night, and I’m still leaning towards Bayley for SmackDown’s “Who attacked Jade Cargill?” But here on NXT, this is a real headscratcher.
Obvious suspects are Cedric, Axiom and Lexis, but that’s why it’s not them. There’s already buzz going around online that it was Bloodline related since Ava got hurt because of Eddy’s carelessness. It could be Lance Anoa’i, it could be Hikuleo, it won’t be The Rock even though that’s his daughter. The Final Boss doesn’t necessarily need to do his own dirty work, and he’s a bit too big a star for NXT and Eddy Thorpe. Either way, some real intrigue here, can’t wait to see how Deadline plays out.
My Score: 8.9/10
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The end is so close, we can almost taste it!
Half of A Block at 3-2, half at 2-3, and only two rounds left! Who will break away from the pack to lead this World Tag League?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Kickoff – Shoma Kato VS Daiki Nagai; Kato wins.
- Six Man Tag: The United Empire VS Bullet Club; The United Empire wins.
- Six Man Tag: Taichi, Taka Michinoku & DOUKI VS TMDK; Taichi, Taka & Douki win.
- Six Man Tag: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Jado & Katsuya Murashima VS Toru Yano, Boltin Oleg & Tiger Mask; Yano, Oleg & Tiger Mask win.
- Six Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS The House of Torture; LIJ wins.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma VS KENTA & Chase Owens; Kenta & Chase win.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi VS Gabe Kidd & SANADA; Gabe & Sanada win.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Bishamon VS Jeff Cobb & Callum Neman; Bishamon wins.
- World Tag League 2024 A Block: Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa VS Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji; Takagi & Tsuji win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Here are the current A Block standings!
Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji: 3-2, 6 points
Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman: 3-2, 6 points
Bishamon: 3-2, 6 points
Gabe Kidd & Sanada: 3-2, 6 points
Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma: 2-3, 4 points
Kenta & Chase Owens: 2-3, 4 points
Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa: 2-3, 4 points
Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi: 2-3, 4 points
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma VS KENTA & Chase Owens!
The Roughneck almost didn’t make it to this round with how he hurt his foot last round, but he’s good to go! But will he and Honma be able to make it through the sixth? Or will The Fang Revived & The Crown Jewel make them #Go2Sleep?
OH NO, Kenta & Chase attack as Shota & Honma make their entrance! Bullet Club takes advantage of Shota & Honma going out into the crowd, and now they’re beating Shota & Honma down! The ref reprimands but Chase uses Shota’s own glowstick to JAM him in the head! Kenta drags Honma up for haymakers and Chase JAMS Shota again! The ref reprimands more but this isn’t a match so Bullet Club keeps beating up on Shota & Honma! Kenta POSTS Honma, and Chase drags Shota over. But Shota fires forearms in return! The fans fire up and Shota saves Honma from Kenta! Shota fires forearms on Kenta & Chase again and again!
Kenta ducks Shota’s forearm to full nelson, and Chase kicks the bad leg! Shota drops to the floor as he clutches the knee, and Kenta stomps Honma. Chase grabs a chair and he pushes the ref aside. Kenta holds the leg out! Honma covers the leg to shield it! So Chase SMACKS Honma instead! Kenta drags Honma up, Chase brings Shota around, and Chase puts Shota in the corner. Chase pulls the leg against the post, and then he grabs the chair! CON-CHAIR-TO on the leg against the post! The fans are stunned as Shota falls to the floor and shouts in pain! Kenta drags Honma up and puts him in the ring, and Chase wants the bell!
Kenta storms in, the bell rings, and now we’re on record as Kenta stands Honma up. Kenta KICKS, and KICKS, and KICKS, but Honma blocks! Honma CLUBS the leg, but then Kenta CLAWS Honma’s face! Kenta brings Honma over to bump off Chase’s boot. Tag to Chase and Bullet Club mugs Honma. Chase then traps Honma’s head for the NECK TWEAK! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up but Chase tags Kenta. Bullet Club continues to mug Honma, then Kenta covers. TWO, but Kenta drops a knee on Honma’s head! And another! Kenta tags Chase and Chase stomps Honma. Chase grinds his forearm into Honma’s face!
Chase drags Honma up, headlocks and punches! Chase bumps Honma off Kenta’s boot, tags Kenta back in, but Honma fights back! The fans rally as Honma fires CHOPS and SLAPS, but Bullet Club mugs him again! They double whip Honma to a corner, then Kenta runs in. Honma dodges Kenta, then dodges Chase! Honma kicks Chase, catches Kenta, DDT COMPLETE SHOT COMBO! The fans fire up but Shota is still down! Honma is in an unofficial 2v1 handicap match at this point! Shota crawls, but he’s still so far from the corner. Kenta CLUBS Honma, then brings him around. Chase adds on, and they double whip again.
Honma grabs ropes, BOOTS Kenta, then DUMPS Chase! The fans fire up as Honma hurries to his feet. Honma SHOULDER TACKLES Kenta! The fans fire up as Shota is back up! But then Chase CHOP BLOCKS him! Shota falls and tumbles into railing! Honma CHOPS Kenta! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Honma whips Kenta corner to corner, then runs up to ELBOW! And BULLDOG! The fans fire up and Honma fires up! FALLING KOKESHI FLOPS as Kenta moves! Tag to Chase and Bullet Club storms up on Honma. SOBAT! KICK! ROUNDHOUSE! Chase mocks the Kokeshi call to KNEE Honma down! Cover, TWO!
Chase calls to end this, and Kenta goes up a corner. Chase brings Honma in, but Shota gets up to SHOVE Kenta down! Kenta hits apron then floor! Shota shoves Chase into a cradle! TWO!! Chase escapes, runs up but Honma shoves Chase into Shota’s ELBOW! Chase staggers and Honma rolls him up! TWO!! Chase escapes again, but Honma runs up. Chase swats the lariat, fires a strike fest, but Honma roars! Honma HEADBUTTS, runs, KOKESHI- C-TRIGGER!! Chase tucks Honma in, hoists him up, PACKAGE PILEDRIVER!! Cover, Bullet Club wins!!
Winners: Kenta & Chase Owens, by pinfall (gain 2 points; Shota & Honma earn 0)
Bullet Club struck first and they struck last, and they’re still in the running! Can they find an outside shot at the finals and hit the mark? As for Shota & Honma, they’re mathematically ELIMINATED from the finals! Will Shota even have a leg to stand on when it comes time for his world title match?
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi VS Gabe Kidd & SANADA!
The Funky Sauce is on the bubble at 2-3 but they seem to be getting hot at just the right time. Can Zayne & Taguchi cook up a great comeback? Or will the heat die down after facing the Mad Man & Cold Blooded?
The teams sort out and then the War Dogs attack! It’s the Bullet Club way! Gabe is after Zayne, Sanada is after Taguchi, and the bell rings to get this on record! Sanada TOSSES Taguchi while Gabe UPPERCUTS Zayne! Sanada helps drag Zayne up, and they War Dogs DOUBLE SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up but Gabe reels Zayne in. Zayne fights the driver, shoves Gabe at Sanada at the corner, but Gabe narrowly avoids running into him. Zayne then SUPERKICKS Gabe, and he dodges Sanada to then IMPLODER KNEE DROP! STANDING MARIPOSA! The fans fire up but Gabe waistlocks! Zayne fights, switches, but Gabe backs him down!
Zayne keeps hold of Gabe and Taguchi tags in. Taguchi CLUBS Gabe, Zayne kicks, and Funky Sauce double whip. They blow past Gabe to then BULLDOG and basement DROPKICK! Taguchi covers, TWO! The fans rally as Funky Sauce HIP ATTACK back and forth! Gabe sputters, and he gets a HIP ATTACK SANDWICH! The fans cheer again and Zayne drags Gabe up. Taguchi goes to a corner, Zayne sends him in, and Taguchi BOOTS! Taguchi goes up for DEADLY HIPS! Taguchi then hops up, Zayne tilt-o-whirl RANAS, but Gabe stops from running into cheeks! Gabe SHOVES Taguchi to the floor, then he dodges Zayne to CHOP!
Zayne falls then flounders away while the fans rally up. Sanada brings Taguchi out into the crowd and SMACKS him off chairs! Gabe does the same with Zayne on the other side! Young Lions make sure fans get to a safe distance while Sanada SMACKS Taguchi off more chairs. Gabe sends Zayne into the back wall! Gabe fires forearms, then THROWS Zayne into the wall again! Sanada drags Taguchi up and moves through the crowd while Gabe SMACKS Zayne with spare railing! Gabe has a wild grin as he storms around. The ring count starts, so Sanada brings Taguchi back to ringside. Taguchi resists but Sanada CLAWS his face!
Gabe has fans clear out, then he BOWLS Zayne into the chairs! Zayne tumbles up and over multiple rows! That was a strike, maybe even a turkey! Gabe then goes back for Taguchi to put him in the ring at 15 of 20. Gabe flexes and mockingly asks where Zayne went. Gabe drags Taguchi up, and he CHOPS! Taguchi goes to a corner while the fans rally up. Gabe bumps Taguchi off buckles, tags Sanada, and Sanada stomps Taguchi down. Sanada stomps away, and Gabe intercepts Zayne at the gate! The ref counts, Sanada lets off, and Gabe grins as Zayne is down in the crowd again. Sanada drags Taguchi back up to bump off buckles.
Sanada whips corner to corner, runs in, and ELBOWS! Taguchi sputters but Sanada tags Gabe. Gabe eggs Taguchi on. Taguchi rises up to CHOP! Gabe eggs Taguchi on more, so Taguchi CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! Gabe BITES Taguchi’s forehead! Then he bumps Taguchi off buckles! The ref reprimands but Gabe tags Sanada. Sanada stands Taguchi up and ROCKS him with a right hand! Taguchi drops to his knees, so Sanada stands him up to ROCK him again! Taguchi wobbles, Sanada ROCKS him again, but Taguchi comes back with CHOPS! The fans rally, but Sanada CLAWS Taguchi’s eyes! Sanada whips, Taguchi HIP ATTACKS!
The fans fire up as Taguchi reaches out, and Zayne has returned! Taguchi crawls over but Gabe runs over to YANK Zayne down! And it’s back out to the crowd! Zayne fights the driver to BOWL Gabe into chairs! STRIKE! The fans fire up as Zayne hurries back, but Sanada drags Taguchi away. BIG atomic drop! Taguchi hobbles, reaches out, but Sanada reels him back in! Taguchi fires elbows, runs, but he fakes Sanada out! HIP ATTACK! The fans fire up again as Taguchi crawls! Hot tag to Zayne! Zayne dodges Sanada, fires hands and forearms, then whips. Zayne HIP TOSSES Sanada to then MARIPOSA!
Zayne drags Sanada up, suplexes, but Sanada fights it to suplex! Zayne fights that, and it’s a battle for control! Zayne suplexes up and over! The fans fire up and Zayne rises! Zayne stands Sanada up to fire forearms and ELBOWS! Then a mule kick! Zayne runs but Gabe trips him up! Gabe drags Zayne out and suplexes, but Zayne fights it! Zayne hangs Gabe out to dry on railing! Then ROLLING AX KICK! Gabe flops down, Zayne runs in and he dodges Sanada! BOOT! ENZIGIRI! Sanada ends up in a corner, tag to Taguchi! Funky Sauce whips Sanada corner to corner, then Taguchi HIP ATTACKS! Feed to Zayne, tilt-o-whirl RANA into the HIPS!
The fans fire up as Zayne backslides Sanada, but Sanada rolls through! KETSUYE! Cover, Gabe breaks it! Gabe runs up to kick Zayne and brings him around. Gabe suplexes, but Zayne slips free! Feed to the HIP- NO, Atomic Drop! Wait, Gabe’s knee is what hurts? Taguchi wags his fingers, did he activate his buns of steel?! Zayne ENZIGIRIS, and then HIP ATTACK! The fans fire up again and Taguchi goes for Sanada. Funky Sauce double whip, but Sanada grabs ropes. Sanada TOSSES Zayne, then dodges Taguchi to spin and suplex, MAGIC- NO, Taguchi slips free! Sanada fights the suplex to dragon sleeper! But Zayne BLOCKBUSTERS!!
The fans are thunderous but Gabe UPPERCUTS Zayne! Zayne hits back, and the two fire heavy shots! The fans rally, Zayne blocks a boot to KNEE, but Gabe LARIATS! Gabe kicks Taguchi, suplexes, but Taguchi fights it! Taguchi wrenches to ENZIGIRI! Gabe falls but Sanada rises, so Taguchi runs up, to whiff on the hip attack! Dragon sleeper, but Taguchi drops down! OH MY GAH ANKLE!! Sanada flails and reaches out, Gabe and Zayne intercept each other! Gabe reels Zayne in, but Zayne fights the lift to have OH MY GAH ANKLE 2!! The fans are thunderous as the War Dogs are enduring! Zayne shouts, “ITADAKIMASU~!” And he BITES Gabe’s leg!!
The fans are thunderous but then Gabe rolls and sends Zayne into Taguchi! All four men are down, and Zayne continues tumbling out to the floor. Gabe bails out to the apron, but Taguchi runs at Sanada. Sanada BOOTS Taguchi, SANADA QUEBRADA! Taguchi dodges! Sanada’s leg jams! KETSU- NO! Sanada dodges the hips! Sanada comes back to SHINING WIZARD!! Sanada roars, the fans fire up, and Sanada clinches for DEAD- NO, Taguchi trips Sanada up, steps over, LA MAGISTROL!!! TWO!! Gabe beats up on Zayne while Sanada catches Taguchi! Taguchi switches but Sanada shoves the ref, LOW BLOW MULE KICK!!
The fans boo but Sanada reels Taguchi in! DEADFALL!! Cover, War Dogs win!
Winners: Gabe Kidd & Sanada, by pinfall (gain 2 points; Zayne & Taguchi earn 0)
Another first strike, last strike match for Bullet Club, and the Funky Sauce is ELIMINATED from the finals! Gabe & Sanada now moving up the ranks, will they be the ones taking those trophies?
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Bishamon VS Jeff Cobb & Callum Neman!
The four-peat is still alive, but at 3-2, who knows for how much longer. Can the Fierce Warrior & Headhunter defy the United Empire? Or will the Imperial Unit & Prince of Pace make sure Hirooki Goto & Yoshi-Hashi won’t #GetBackUp?
The teams sort out and Callum pushes Goto. Goto steps up and the fans cheer with the bell. Goto and Callum stare down while the fans rally up more, then they circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, but Goto uses size to power Callum backwards to ropes. The ref counts, Goto lets off with pats on the shoulder, and the fans applaud. Callum brushes that off literally and the two go again. They tie up but Callum kicks low! Callum fires a forearm, whips, but Goto reverses. Callum ducks ‘n’ dodges and BOOTS Goto down! The fans fire up and Callum waits on Goto to sit up. Callum stomps Goto, then stands him up to fire forearms.
Goto CHOPS, Callum fires a forearm, repeat! Callum knees low, whips, but Goto grabs ropes! Hashi tags in and Goto BOOTS Callum! Bishamon CLOBBERS Callum! Cobb runs up, but Bishamon drop toeholds him onto Callum! Callum sputters while Goto & Hashi bring Cobb up. “SE~ NO!” DRUM BEAT! The fans fire up as Bishamon CLUBS Cobb back down onto Callum! Goto steps out while Cobb rolls away, and Callum coughs and sputters his way to ropes. Hashi brings Callum around to cover, ONE!! Callum is still toughing it out and the fans rally up. Hashi drags Callum up to CLUB him on the neck!
Callum goes to another end of the ring but Hashi storms up. Hashi CLUBS Callum again, then keeps him from Cobb. Hashi ROCKS Callum with a forearm, then whips him to ropes. Callum reverses and HIP TOSS NECKBREAKERS! Cobb runs up to BLAST Goto! Cobb goes out to stomp Goto down, then he stands on Goto’s chest! The fans cheer, and Cobb pretends he didn’t see Goto there as he steps off. Callum drags Hashi up to ROCK him with a forearm! Callum then CHOPS Hashi off his feet! The fans cheer and Callum brings Hashi over. Callum bumps Hashi off buckles, then he tags in Cobb.
Cobb HEADBUTTS Hashi in the back! And HEADBUTTS him again! Cobb whips and RUNS Hashi over! Cobb then carefully covers, TWO! Another cover, TWO! A third cover, TWO! Hashi stays in this and the fans rally up again. Cobb stalks Hashi to ropes, stomps him, then drags Hashi up. Cobb CLUBS Hashi down, pushes him around, and then steps on Hashi’s back! Cobb stands on Hashi to use him as a surfboard! Cobb mocks Goto’s pose, then steps away to tell Goto to go back to his corner. Cobb bumps Hashi off buckles then tags Callum. Callum CHOPS Hashi, kicks him, but Hashi fires forearms!
Callum and Hashi go back and forth, and Hashi has the edge! But Callum CHOPS Hashi off his feet! Callum stands Hashi up, tags Cobb, and the Empire mugs Hashi in the corner. The fans rally but Cobb scoops Hashi and holds him with one arm! Then Cobb SLAMS Hashi down! Cobb again mocks Goto’s pose to power up, GACHIMUCHI MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Hashi survives and the fans fire up, but Cobb brings Hashi around. Hashi fires body shots and forearms! Cobb JABS! Cobb whips, but Hashi dropkicks the legs out! The fans fire up and Hashi crawls over, hot tag to Goto! Goto runs to RAM Cobb!
Cobb stays up so Goto RAMS him again! Cobb tells Goto nice try! Cobb kicks low, whips, but Goto reverses. Goto then blows past Cobb to LARIAT! Callum runs in but Goto kicks him, and snap suplexes him onto Cobb! The fans fire up and Goto brings Cobb around. Goto fires a flurry of forearms, then whips corner to corner. Goto runs up to MURAMASA, and then BULLDOG! Cover, TWO! Cobb stays in this and the fans rally up more. Goto drags Cobb up but Cobb’s too much to fireman’s carry! Cobb CLUBS Goto, but Goto fires forearms! Cobb fires back and the forearms go back and forth!
The fans rally as Goto and Cobb throw shots, but then Cobb gets the edge! Cobb pumps up, swings, but into a dragon sleeper! But Cobb fights free! Goto ROCKS Cobb, runs, but Cobb blows past Goto now to “JOHN CENA!” SHOULDER TACKLE! Goto is down and the fans fire up! Cobb rolls his way to the corner, Goto crawls, hot tags to Callum and Hashi! Hashi dodges to fire a strike fest! Hashi CHOPS and Callum goes to the corner. Hashi storms up to CHOP again! Hashi turns Callum, Callum slips free to shove, trip, and DOUBLE STOMP! The fans fire up, Callum huffs ‘n’ puffs and rises again.
Callum drags Hashi up, but Hashi suplexes! Callum slips free, waistlocks, but Hashi RAMS him into a corner! Goto runs up and LARIATS! Hashi CLUBS Cobb off the apron! Hashi whips Callum but Callum BOOTS Goto! And then Callum jumps Hashi’s basement dropkick to DOUBLE STOMP! Cobb storms in and he deadlift suplexes Hashi! Callum adds a PENALTY KICK! Cover, Goto breaks it! The fans fire up but Cobb TOSSES Goto! Cobb goes out after Goto again while Callum brings Hashi up. Cobb runs up but someone crashes into railing! Hashi avoids Callum’s Oscutter, then blocks a kick to fire a forearm!
Callum fires back and the fans rally as the shots go back and forth! Callum wobbles, Hashi fires a flurry! Hashi spins to COHP! Callum falls, kips up and ENZIGIRIS! Callum runs, but Goto is back, and he LARIATS Callum! Bishamon stands Callum up! Fireman’s carry, USHIGOROSHI! They call their shot and get Callum back up! Dragon sleeper, leg lift, but Callum kicks free! Goto suplexes, Callum knees free! Goto waistlocks, spins Callum around, and Hashi LARIATS at the ropes! Then full nelson, but Callum BOOTS Goto and STUNNRES Hashi! Victory roll, TWO!! Cobb drags Goto out to send him into railing!
Hashi ducks a roundhouse to SNAP DRAGON SUPLEX! Hashi sees Callum tumble to a corner but Cobb runs up to ROCK Hashi! Goto gets in, Cobb ROCKS him, too! Cobb fires more shots, but gets caught into an URA GTR! Hashi LARIATS Cobb down! The fans fire up and Hashi roars! Callum SUPERKICKS Hashi! And DREAMCAST KICKS Goto! Hashi runs up, into a JUMP KNEE! Callum springboards, OSCU- NO, Goto catches him! Hashi has the legs! SHOTO!! Cover, BISHAMON WINS!
Winners: Bishamon, by pinfall (gain 2 points; Cobb & Callum earn 0)
A fast and furious finish, and it was certainly lights out for Callum! The United Empire’s dream of facing each other in the finals is in jeopardy, but is the dream of the four-peat about to come true for Goto & Hashi?
World Tag League 2024 A Block: Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa VS Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji!
TMDK is on the ropes in both blocks, their hopes of a mighty battle in Kumamoto is no longer possible. But can The Front Man & Mullet stay strong until the end? Or will the Rampaging Dragon & Gene Blast keep World Tag League tranquilo?
The teams sort out, LIJ fist bumps, and the fans rally up as Oiwa steps up to Yota. Yota grins, the bell rings, and the fans rally up. Yota and Oiwa circle, feel things out, then circle. They tie up, Oiwa spins to hammerlock, but Yota reaches back to headlock. Oiwa powers out and wrangles Yota into a headlock. Yota fights up, fires body shots, then hammerlocks in return. Oiwa slips around to switch the hammerlock onto Yota, but Yota switches and full nelsons. Oiwa fights that, so Yota spins him to a snapmare. Yota chinlocks but Oiwa slips right out to hammerlock! Oiwa then hooks the other arm and brings Yota into a cover, TWO!
Oiwa keeps on Yota with a double wristlock but Yota fights up to headlock. Yota hits a takeover, Oiwa headscissors, and Oiwa holds on tight! Yota fights around, pops out and has Oiwa’s legs trapped! Oiwa endures, Yota floats to a headlock but Oiwa again headscissors. Yota kips free this time but Oiwa goes up and hits a headscissor takedown! The fans fire up while Oiwa pushes up to put on the pressure. Yota fights around, ROPEBREAK! Oiwa lets go of Yota to stomp him down, then he brings Yota up to CHOP! Oiwa CHOPS Yota at the ropes, then runs, but Takagi jumps in! LIJ DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE Oiwa down!
The fans fire up and Takagi SENTONS! Yota BODY PRESSES! Cover, TWO! Oiwa stays in this but Yota brings him up. Yota CHOPS Oiwa, but Oiwa comes back for more. Yota CHOPS again, but Oiwa shakes his head. Oiwa CHOPS, ROCKS, and fires more forearms! But Yota CHOPS Oiwa down! The fans fire up and Yota runs, but Oiwa dropkicks the legs out! The fans fire up again as Oiwa hurries, tag to ZSJ! ZSJ drags Yota around by a leg, has a standing toehold, and he twists and tweaks that foot! ZSJ turns Yota over and hooks up the legs. Yota resists as ZSJ goes for the arms, so ZSJ STOMPS the legs!
The fans fire up while Yota writhes, and ZSJ tags Oiwa. Oiwa storms up and grabs a leg for his own standing toehold. Yota endures, fights, but Oiwa YANKS the leg! Oiwa drags Yota around to YANK the leg again! Oiwa then tags ZSJ back in and ZSJ goes right after the leg, SPINNING TOEHOLD! ZSJ scissors the leg but Yota kicks with the free leg. But ZSJ grabs that and adds it on, DEATHLOCK! ZSJ pulls way back on it, and even has a headscissors! ZSJ again innovates with this modified Bow ‘n’ Arrow, but Yota endures and reaches out! Yota rolls over to have the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer and ZSJ lets go to tag Oiwa.
Oiwa drags Yota up to dropkick the legs! Oiwa brings Yota up again, has a leg, but Yota fights the lift! Yota CLUBS away but Oiwa DRAGON SCREWS the leg instead! Tag back to ZSJ and ZSJ stalks Yota to a corner. ZSJ UPPERCUTS Yota, UPPERCUTS again, and then UPPERCUTS again! Yota falls over, ZSJ drags him around, and he stands on the leg before dropping into another DEATHLOCK! Yota endures as ZSJ stands up to put on the pressure! Takagi storms up to CHOP ZSJ! ZSJ stays standing but Takagi JABS, JABS and CHOPS, but ZSJ catches him! COBRA TWIST! The fans are thunderous as ZSJ has both LIJ behemoths!
Red Shoes counts, ZSJ lets Takagi go, and then he drags Yota back by just walking! Tag to Oiwa, and Oiwa stomps Yota down. The fans rally up while Oiwa drags Yota up, and he RAMS Yota into an open corner. The fans rally and duel while Oiwa pulls the leg around ropes! Oiwa then KNEES the knee! Red Shoes reprimands but Oiwa whips corner to corner. Yota manages to reach the other side, and Oiwa runs up. Oiwa blocks a boot, but Yota reels him in to then DOUBLE STOMP! Both men are down, the fans rally up, and Yota hot tags Takagi! Takagi CLOBBERS Oiwa, BLASTS ZSJ, and shouts, “Mada mada! <Not done yet!>”
Takagi runs in at the corner, blocks a boot, and LARIATS through! The fans fire up with Takagi and he JABS, CHOPS, and repeat! Red Shoes counts, Takagi JABS, JABS, JABS, but ZSJ storms in! ZSJ wrenches the arm, CLUBS it, then he and Oiwa double whip. Takagi grabs ropes, comes back, but into DOUBLE BOOTS! Takagi stays up, clinches Oiwa and kicks ZSJ! DDT COMPLETE SHOT COMBO! The fans fire up again as Takagi suplexes Oiwa high and hard! Cover, TWO! Takagi tells Kochi, “TOKI GA KITA!” The fans fire up and join in on “OI! OI! OI!” Takagi rises, brings Oiwa up, but Oiwa fires a forearm!
Takagi shakes that off and comes back to ROCK Oiwa! Oiwa fires another forearm, but Takagi fires back! The forearms go back and forth and the fans rally up again! Takagi JABS, JABS, and JABS! Oiwa LARIATS! Oiwa roars, runs, but Takagi LARIAT at the ropes! Takagi runs, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Oiwa comes back into an ELBOW! JAB! YUKON feint and DDT! Yota runs in to BLAST ZSJ off the apron! LIJ brings Oiwa up and they double whip. Oiwa breaks the double chops to DECK Yota and DROPKICK Takagi! The fans fire up as everyone is down! Oiwa crawls over, ZSJ is back, and ZSJ tags in!
ZSJ storms up to UPPERCUT Takagi, then UPPERCUT again! And again! Takagi eggs ZSJ on, then blocks a boot! But ZSJ steps through the dragon screw to NECK TWIST! And basement DROPKICK! Takagi flounders to a corner, and ZSJ almost parodies Takagi. ZSJ runs up to UPPERCUT, then NORTHERN LIGHTS! Bridging cover, TWO! Takagi stays in this but ZSJ stays focused. The fans fire up as ZSJ aims, and KICKS! Takagi blocks! Takagi puts ZSJ’s leg in the ropes, fires JAB after JAB, then DRAPING DRAGON SCREWS! ZSJ flops over and clutches that leg but fans cheer as Takagi rises again.
Takagi grabs a leg, has a standing toehold, then steps through. ZSJ boots Takagi away, Takagi comes back, but ZSJ avoids the sliding lariat to grab that arm! ZSJ hammerlocks, traps, and TWISTS! The fans fire up while ZSJ sits back to clutch his leg and Takagi clutches that elbow. ZSJ clamps back onto the arm, twists the wrist and SNAPS fingers! Red Shoes reprimands but ZSJ digs elbows into Takagi’s back. ZSJ then drags Takagi up to UPPERCUT the arm again and again! Takagi fights the takedown to ELBOW! YUKON- NO, ZSJ blocks to PELE the arm! ZSJ BOOTS Takagi, then catches Takagi on the rebound!
ZSJ isolates the arm and STOMPS! Then he scoops, but Takagi slips free! Takagi suplexes, ZSJ fights it, so Takagi hits a SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! ZSJ and Takagi crawl, hot tags to Oiwa and Yota! Oiwa dodges to headlock but Yota powers right out. They RAM shoulders, and both men fire up! They fire forearms back and forth, faster and faster, and the fans rally up! Yota gets the edge and ROCKS Oiwa! Yota runs, but into a ROLLING ELBOW! Oiwa runs to SPINNING UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up again and Oiwa grabs a leg! SHIN BREAKER!
Oiwa trips Yota, steps through, FIGURE FOUR! Oiwa thrashes the hold as Yota endures! Yota pushes at the main leg, but Oiwa pulls on Yota’s legs! Yota endures, reaches out, but Oiwa pushes up for more pressure! Yota fights, crawls, and manages the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer and Oiwa lets go of the hold. Takagi coaches Yota but Oiwa SPLASHES down on the leg! And then drops knee after knee onto it! Red shoes reprimands as Yota again has ropes, so Oiwa stands Yota up. Oiwa whips, Yota reverses, and Yota kitchen sink knees! And then basement DROPKCIKS! Takagi runs up to BLAST ZSJ down!
Takagi checks on Yota, and the fans rally up. Yota stands and Takagi runs in, to ELBOW Oiwa! Takagi feeds Oiwa to Yota’s BOOT, then Takagi BLINDSIDE LARIATS! Oiwa staggers and Yota brings him in. LIJ hits a DOUBLE BACK SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Oiwa stays in this and the fans fire up again. Yota drags Oiwa up, Takagi wheelbarrows, but ZSJ CLOBBERS Yota! Takagi KNEES and TOSSES ZSJ out hard! LIJ double whip Oiwa, then duck Oiwa’s counter lariats! Takagi fireman’s carries Oiwa to TOSS him to Yota’s KICK! That was like the Aussie Open Dental Plan! The fans fire up as Yota hauls Oiwa up to the top rope!
Yota climbs up after Oiwa and fires up! The fans fire up with him, and Yota SUPERPLEXES Oiwa! Oiwa sits up, into a SLIDING PUMPING BOMBER! Yota covers, ZSJ BREAKS IT! Takagi TOSSES ZSJ out again! Takagi goes out to stomp away on ZSJ, and Yota grins as he rises up again. Yota powers up, aims at Oiwa, GENE- NO, Oiwa hurdles over, and ZSJ catches Yota into a GUILLOTINE FACELOCK! ZSJ then suplexes, but Yota slips free! ZSJ switches to have the COBRA TWIST! Red Shoes reprimands, but Yota HIP TOSSES free! ZSJ UP KICKS, Oiwa UPPERCUTS! ZSJ UPPERCUTS, Oiwa DAIGOSHIKIPLEXES! Cover, Takagi breaks it!
ZSJ BOOTS Takagi back out, then pursues. Oiwa fires up, and he clamps on a SLEEPER! Yota endures and the fans rally up! Someone is sent into railing right as Oiwa spins Yota! Yota ducks The Grip, and PUMPING BOMBER hits! But ZSJ runs in at Takagi to BOOT! Takagi comes back, ZSJ BOOTS the lariat! Takagi ELBOWS! JABS! YUKON feint and DDT- NO, ZSJ slips free! PENALTY KICK! But Takagi’s right back up! PUMPING BOMBER!! Oiwa is up to LARIAT Takagi! GENE- LARIAT?!? Oiwa takes Yota down first, but he also falls over! The fans are thunderous as ALL FOUR MEN are on the mat!
ZSJ and Takagi roll out to the aprons, and the fans rally as hard as they can as Oiwa drags himself up! Yota crawls to the corner, and Oiwa runs in! Oiwa LARIATS, then he suplexes! Yota fights that, wrenches and swings, but Oiwa catches him and spins him! But Yota suplexes first! Oiwa fights that, slips around to waistlock, but Yota fights the lift! Yota switches, Oiwa fights, and then Oiwa switches to have a SLEEPER! Yota snapmares free, and SUPERKICKS! Oiwa staggers, Yota roars and runs, but Oiwa gets around! SNAP GERMAN! The fans fire up as we hit 20 minutes! Yota runs up again, but Oiwa gets back around, SNAP GERMAN! Bridging cover, TWO!!
The fans are thunderous as Yota escapes! Oiwa hurries to his feet, and he storms over to a corner. The fans fire up with Oiwa, ZSJ keeps Takagi from getting to the corner, and Oiwa DIVING BODY PRESSES! Cover, TWO!! Yota survives that simple yet effective splash, but Oiwa roars! Oiwa gut wrenches, DOCTOR- RANA from Yota! SUPERKICK! Oiwa roars, but Yota’s GENE TRIGGER hits! Oiwa falls back and now Yota roars! The fans are thunderous again and Yota goes to the corner. Yota goes up and up, to MAROON CRUSH! Cover, ZSJ drags Yota back with an ANKLE LOCK! Takagi CLUBS ZSJ and has a STANDING CROSSFACE!
ZSJ lets Yota go to slip free of Takagi! ZSJ fires UPPERCUT after UPPERCUT on Takagi, but then Yota catches ZSJ! Spin and wheelbarrow, then BOOSTED WHEELBARROW GERMAN!! ZSJ flounders out and the fans fire up with LIJ! “OI! OI! OI!” Yota sets up in the corner, Takagi stands Oiwa up, PUMP- NO, Oiwa shoves Takagi away and rolls Yota up! TWO!!! Yota escapes with nanoseconds to spare! Takagi CLUBS away on Oiwa, he and Yota double whip, but Oiwa DOUBLE LARIATS! The fans are thunderous again and Oiwa roars! Oiwa rises, brings Yota up, DOCTOR BOMB!! Cover, TWO?!?! Yota survives and shocks Oiwa!
The fans are electric as Oiwa rises again. Oiwa sits Yota up into the SLEEPER! Yota endures and the fans rally up! Someone is sent into railing as Yota fights up, but here comes Takagi! Oiwa ducks, ZSJ catches Takagi into a SLEEPER! ZSJ tells Oiwa now’s the time! IRON OCTOPUS on Takagi, and THE- GENE BLASTER POINT BLANK!! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER for ZSJ!! The fans are thunderous again while ZSJ flops out of the ring! Takagi shouts that they’re not done! Takagi runs to PUMPING BOMBER!! Takagi roars, Yota rises, and Oiwa is set up for the PUMPING BLASTER!!! Cover, LIJ WINS!!
Winners: Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji, by pinfall (gain 2 points; ZSJ & Oiwa earn 0)
Another fast ‘n’ furious fight that Oiwa just could not win out! And now, Oiwa & ZSJ are ELIMINATED from the finals! The Mighty Don’t Kneel, but will they simply have to fall back on other plans for WrestleKingdom?
As for LIJ, Yota shows Oiwa respect by standing him up and raising his hand. Oiwa shakes free, not wanting Yota’s pity, so Yota BOOTS him down! ZSJ lets it be while he and Takagi raise their titles at each other. The IWGP World Heavyweight Champion helps his young teammate out of there while the NEVER Openweight Champion stays in the ring. Yota then grabs the mic to say, “Oi, Kochi. Finally…” Takagi says, “Our time has come!” The fans cheer that! Takagi repeats to Yota that their time has come. Yota recaps that they are now 4-2, and on top of the block! The fans cheer that!
Yota asks, “Hey, Takagi-san, you’re ready, right?” Takagi says, “Of course I’m ready! I’m totally ready! Now it’s time to make this really interesting. There’s no time like the present and no team like us to win this! We’re rampage to the end of this league.” The fans cheer that, and Yota tells Kochi and everyone watching to “keep your eye on us as we win this thing!” The fans cheer again, and Yota says, “Oi, Kochi, are you ready?!” The fans cheer because yes they are! Yota simply ends with, “We are winning this World Tag League.” Mic drop and LIJ heads out, but will they be headed to Kumamoto?
Here are the NEW A Block standings!
Shingo Takagi & Yota Tsuji: 4-2, 8 points
Bishamon: 4-2, 8 points
Gabe Kidd & Sanada: 4-2, 8 points
Jeff Cobb & Callum Newman: 3-3, 6 points [ELIMINATED]
Kenta & Chase Owens: 3-3, 6 points [ELIMINATED]
Shota Umino & Tomoaki Honma: 2-4, 4 points [ELIMINATED]
Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa: 2-4, 4 points [ELIMINATED]
Alex Zayne & Ryusuke Taguchi: 2-4, 4 points [ELIMINATED]
My Thoughts:
Another great round for World Tag League, and A Block is dropping like flies compared to B Block. With three teams at 4-2, so many teams get wiped out here, despite the great matches everyone had. Kenta & Chase finish off Shota & Honma, but then Kenta & Chase are still out because Gabe & Sanada won. Bishamon of course stays in the running, their four-peat is a big story for them, and they take Cobb & Callum out of the running to cross off any chances of a United Empire finals. And as I said when this all started, WTL was not the real goal of ZSJ and Shota, they were just setting up their world title match at Tokyo Dome.
Though, ZSJ & Oiwa VS Takagi & Tsuji was an awesome main event with a lot riding on it because had ZSJ & Oiwa won, they might’ve eliminated LIJ from the running. Hard to tell say, given LIJ lost to Bishamon and to Kenta & Chase but beat everyone else. But I guess if Takagi VS Konosuke is a WrestleDynasty thing, then maybe he and Yota can battle for the tag titles at WrestleKingdom. Though, that might telegraph Khan & Henare winning since Takagi would be bringing the tag titles along to a match with Konosuke Takeshita. Maybe? NJPW’s plans could be up in the air even now for all I know.
My Score: 8.9/10
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