Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (5/31/21)
Happy Memorial Monday Night Raw!
Raw runs it back to get on track to Hell in a Cell!
Drew McIntyre and Kofi Kingston go around again to determine a #1 contender to Bobby Lashley’s WWE Championship, on a Memorial Monday Night Raw!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Beat the Clock Challenge: Charlotte Flair VS Nikki Cross; Cross wins.
- Xavier Woods VS Randy Orton w/ Matt Riddle; Orton wins.
- Shayna Baszler VS Reginald; Reginald wins.
- Mace & T-Bar VS Lucha House Party; Mace & T-Bar win.
- Sheamus VS Ricochet; Ricochet wins.
- Sheamus VS Humberto Carrillo; Carrillo wins.
- Naomi & Lana VS Mandy Rose & Dana Brooke; Rose & Brooke win.
- Shelton Benjamin VS Cedric Alexander; Alexander wins.
- Raw Tag Team Championships: AJ Styles & Omos VS Elias & Jaxson Ryker; Styles & Omos win and retain the titles.
- WWE World Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Drew McIntyre VS Kofi Kingston; McIntyre wins and will challenge Bobby Lashley for the title at Hell in a Cell.
PLAY BY PLAY
WWE and Raw celebrate Memorial Day.
“They didn’t volunteer to die. They volunteered to defend values which make up what we call civilization.” – President Ronald Reagan
A narrator asks, “What does it mean to be selfless? To have the courage to put all else first for a greater cause. In every generation, there are those who put everything before themselves. And on this day, we honor them. The brave men and women who fought for our freedom. From the first World War to Desert Storm. From Normandy to Afghanistan. Today, we look back at the moments, the events, that define our history. The struggles, they’re battles. And remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. President Ronald Reagan once said…” “As we honor their memory today, let us pledge that their lives, their sacrifices, their valor, shall be justified and remembered for as long as God gives life to this nation.”
“Today, we show our gratitude. To those who shaped us, who guided us, who ensured our values would live forever. Today, we show reverence and respect. Today, we say, ‘Thank you.'”
Jimmy Smith joins Raw commentary!
And what a night to start! Smith is here to join the fans in honoring our military and enjoying all the action and entertainment that’s in store!
Raw opens with Miz TV!
The Miz returns and is not a zombie as he welcomes us back to the Most Must-See WWE Talk Show ever! Miz puts himself over as he welcomes back the ONLY two-time Grand Slam Champion, himself! And not a moment too soon, because Raw has been really tough to watch without Miz commanding the ship. It’s not all his fault, though. He apologizes for that match. “That match… That Lumberjack match with Damian Priest… I was injured. For the first time in my illustrious career, my body gave way and… What is that smell?”
John Morrison is wearing garlic! He’s taking no chances after what happened at Backlash! That was a sticky situation, so now he’s prepared for anyone or anything that might come for the host with the most, and the Moist Voice. Aliens, vampires, plumbers, whatever! Because in addition to the garlic, he also has his patented #DripStick! It’s a simple pump water gun filled with holy water. Miz missed Morrison so much. Morrison says the same about The Miz. Miz says he had an epiphany while he was away. He knew he had to get back because we’re going on the road soon! The fans all want to see these must-see stars in person!
And Miz also had the realization that he has accomplished so much in his story book career that he has to give back! He has to use his platform to support stars like Morrison, and his guests tonight! Speaking of which, the challenger to the Raw Women’s Championship at Hell in a Cell, welcome the Queen, Charlotte Flair! Morrison “sings” along with the theme as Charlotte struts down to the ring. Morrison helps her with the ropes, but she doesn’t like the garlic necklace. Maybe it’s just the smell. Miz welcomes her to the show and she asks about the smell. It’s the anti-supernatural garlic!
But anyway, in about three weeks, Charlotte could return to Raw the how-many-time women’s champion? Fourteen time, but who’s counting? Other than them! Miz ‘n’ Morrison overdo the laughing and she’s immediately annoyed. But what everyone has to realize is that Rhea Ripley had her fairy tale victory, but real life is different. Sometimes dreams become nightmares, and in three weeks, Charlotte sends the Nightmare to hell. But speaking of, Rhea makes her entrance! Miz ‘n’ Morrison rock out and annoy Charlotte more than Rhea walking to the ring does. Rhea helps herself into the ring and takes the mic to say, “Charlotte, you’re going to send me to hell? You can GO to hell!”
Miz keeps things from getting physical, this is Rhea’s first time on Miz TV so let’s deep dive into who Rhea really is, why she’s so mysterious, what her tattoos mean and why she has such a strong exterior. Pop quiz from Morrison: what’s Rhea’s favorite garlic bread recipe? Miz asks Morrison what he’s going on about, and Morrison just wants to make sure Rhea’s not a vampire. Rhea laughs because of how DUMB that is! She’s not a vampire! Oh ok. She’s a nightmare to everyone in the Raw Women’s Division. If they want to interview her after HIAC, after she’s defeated Charlotte, she’ll still be Raw Women’s Champion.
Charlotte says Rhea couldn’t even beat Nikki Cross last week. True! And as a champion, you should beat all challengers. Though, that was a Beat the Clock two-minute challenge. #LossToCross. Rhea did let time get away from her as she was showing her dominance, and lost by time running out. Which Charlotte rubbed in her face not two seconds after. Charlotte rubs it in again here, too. Rhea couldn’t beat Cross so what makes her think she can beat Charlotte? Wait, here comes Nikki Cross! She wasn’t a scheduled guest but Miz allows it. Nikki apologizes for crashing the show but she’s a big fan. She couldn’t wait to get out here.
Last week, Nikki beat the champion! Rhea stands up but Nikki says it would only be fair if she challenged the winner from HIAC. Charlotte says if life was fair, Charlotte would already be champion. Rhea says that if there was four minutes and not two, Nikki wouldn’t even be standing here. But they’re cool, and Rhea admits Nikki earned some respect. Well thanks, Rhea! But listen, Charlotte! Nikki COULD beat Charlotte in two minutes, too! Then would it be fair for her to challenge the winner of HIAC? Charlotte gets up now and says this is ridiculous. She could beat Nikki in ONE minute. But Nikki SLAPS Charlotte! Morrison ‘n’ Miz like the fire, but they keep this from getting physical.
Charlotte says, “You’re on, you little troll!!” The Queen wants to make Nikki pay for her insolence, but will one minute really be enough time?
Beat the Clock Challenge: Charlotte Flair VS Nikki Cross!
Raw returns, and to be fair to both Nikki and Charlotte, this is still a two minute challenge. But either way, can Nikki earn her way to a title opportunity?
The bell rings, and Nikki dodges Charlotte to slide out and taunt her. Charlotte seethes, chases Nikki but Nikki gets back in the ring! Nikki taunts Charlotte more, Rhea says the clock is ticking, and Charlotte gets back in, only for Nikki to go back out! Charlotte blames Rhea for this but Rhea says she should focus. Nikki baits Charlotte but Charlotte misses! We’re nearing a minute as the cat ‘n’ mouse continues. Rhea ends up in Charlotte’s way, and Charlotte says this is all Rhea’s fault. The ring count is climbing, Charlotte gets in the ring and Nikki runs to duck and dodge. Charlotte knees low, brings Nikki around but Nikki shoves her. Charlotte CLOBBERS Nikki but we’re at 30!
Charlotte gets Nikki up, hoists her up top, but Nikki fights back! We’re at 15 seconds as Nikki hits a TORNADO DDT! Charlotte flounders, Nikki dropkicks her, and time is up! Nikki wins again!
Winner: Nikki Cross
The Queen is furious that she got suckered into the games! She still blames Rhea, but will she only have herself to blame if she doesn’t pull off the win at Hell in a Cell?
Matt Riddle talks with Damian Priest backstage.
The Bro cannot wait. Priest says all the celebrating they can do in every city! That means Riddle can scooter all the way down to Texas! Maybe he can learn some Español, “akka” Spanish. Wait, AKA? Si! Well alright, sure. Okay how do you say, “Bro?” Hermano. Alright, that’s an easy one. How about, “I’m hungry.” Tengo hambre. Cool, he’ll work on that one. How about, “Where’s my daddy?” Donde esta mi papi. I’M your papi! Eddie Guerrero! Nice. Okay, okay. How about, “Hey, Randy!” Hey, Randy. Really? That simple? Even “bro” is- Oh! Hey, Randy! Hola, amigo! Riddle has missed him so much! How’s he doing?
Orton says he saw what Riddle did last week, using the RKO. Yeah, sorry, he should’ve asked permission first, and he isn’t sure what came over him, but it just came outta nowhere! Orton admits that that was a hell of a match with Xavier Woods and Orton was impressed. There are things they can work on, and if they’re going to be a team, they might as well go all the way. So while he might regret this later, Orton wants Riddle to watch his match and learn some things. Seriously? Aw shucks, Randy! Last week, Riddle hitting the RKO, he realized it’s about that high angle velocity cuz when he pushed off his foot and got Woods around the head-
Orton hushes Riddle, and he zips the lip. Orton takes the key, and tosses it. Riddle scoots on to look for it, but that’s easier said than done. Wait, what? Anyway, will Riddle take plenty of notes on how the RKO really looks?
Xavier Woods VS Randy Orton w/ Matt Riddle!
Switching from Mortal Kombat to Power Rangers, Woods goes from Sub-Zero to the White Tiger! Kofi Kingston is the Green Dragon Ranger, but he has to prepare for the Scottish Warrior. Will Woods be safe alone against The Viper?
Raw returns as Orton makes his entrance. Somehow Riddle found that key because he’s hyping Orton up as he scoots up behind him. The bell rings, they tie up, and Orton headlocks. Woods powers out but Orton runs him over, then gets him up. Woods denies the RKO and arm-drags Orton to an armlock! Orton gets up, Woods grinds the arm, then wrenches and knees Orton to a corner. Woods whips Orton corner to corner but Orton reverses. Woods goes up and over, but Orton catches up him to hit a SNAKE EYES! Woods bails out while Riddle cheers, and Orton pursues. Woods hits back, Orton kicks low to bounce him off the desk again and again!
The ring count climbs but Orton gives Woods a DESK BACK SUPLEX! Orton leaves Woods behind, Riddle cheers him on and Raw goes to break!
Raw returns and Orton grinds Woods down with a headlock. Riddle rallies for Orton while Woods fights up. Woods throws body shots, pries the hold apart and hits an elbow breaker! Orton falls back and clutches that elbow. Woods ENZIGURIS Orton down and Riddle is a bit worried. Riddle coaches Orton and cheers him on, and Orton goes back to Woods. Woods CHOPS Orton, then throws haymakers! CHOP, haymaker, repeat, faster and faster! Woods has Orton on the ropes but Orton knees low! Orton whips Woods to ropes but Woods ducks and dodges to slide under and ROLLING ELBOW! Orton is down and Riddle is really worried!
Woods gets up, runs, and hits a SLIDING COMPLETE SHOT! Cover, TWO!! Orton survives and Riddle breathes a sigh of relief. Both men are down but Riddle keeps rallying. Orton goes to a corner, Woods runs in and forearm smashes! Woods climbs, rains down punches, but Orton pulls an ear then pokes an eye! Orton gets Woods off the corner for a POWERBOMB! High stack, TWO! Woods survives and Riddle is getting frustrated on Orton’s behalf. Orton shoves Woods to the apron, Riddle likes how he literally used his head. Orton wants Riddle to watch this one as he gets Woods through ropes.
Riddle likes this one, but Woods know sit well! Woods gets in to ARM CODE BREAKER! And FUJIWARA ARMBAR! Orton endures, Riddle cheers the ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Woods lets go at 4, and Orton kicks low! Orton is faster with it this time, DRAPING DDT! Orton hears the voices in his head as he watches Woods rise! Woods stands, but denies the RKO again! Backslide, TWO! KNEE from Woods, then he runs, but into a scoop! Orton borrows BRO DEREK!?! Cover, Orton wins!!
Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall
Riddle gets in the ring to celebrate with Orton hitting his move! RKBRO is becoming simpatico! And the poses? AND THE- Nope, nevermind, Orton reconsidered. But maybe soon!
MVP and the ladies head to the “executive suite.”
The bottles are popping, and the All Mighty arrives! The ladies are happy to see him and are already fawning all over him and the title. Will Bobby Lashley be just fine staying away from tonight’s main event?
Shayna Baszler VS Reginald!
The Queen of Spades is always in a bad mood by default, but the losing and distractions and disappointment only adds to all of that to put her in a foul mood! The sommelier screwing things up was the last straw, but will Shayna snap Reggie like a twig to get her and the Irresistible Force back to the way things were?
Raw returns and Reggie tells Nia that he does not need her protection. He can handle this himself. He survived Sasha Banks and Tamina, so he’ll be fine. But that was all with Nia there! Reggie says she can watch the match from gorilla to see for herself. Nia reluctantly agrees to the deal, and Reggie heads to the ring. The bell rings and Reggie wants Shayna to understand, they’re a trio. But she told him to stay out of things last week, so this is what he gets! Shayna kicks, but Reggie flips to evade! And then again! And then he goes up and over in a corner, only for Shayna to run him over! Shayna says he’s had this coming. Reggie ducks a Penalty Kick, rolls Shayna up, TWO!
Shayna has Reggie’s arm! She twists it, whips but Reggie reverses. Shayna sees the trip-up coming and whips him again. Reggie reverses but she runs him over, only for him to handspring through! Reggie scoops and SLAMS Shayna! Reggie feels bad, he didn’t want to make this worse than it was. Shayna gets his leg, he flips away and then dodges, but Shayna runs him over again. She gets a leg to DDT it! Reggie writhes, Shayna gets the leg again, and she drops elbows on the knee over and over! Shayna twists the leg and digs a knee into the knee! Reggie endures, grits his teeth, but she turns him over and isolates the foot, to STOMP it!
Reggie writhes as he clutches the leg again. Shayna paces about, and KICKS him in the leg! Reggie gets to ropes, Shayna drags him back to center for another toehold! Shayna leg scissors the leg and twists the foot! Reggie endures but Shayna keeps on the slicer, to then SMASH the knee into the mat! Shayna paces as Reggie hobbles to a corner, Shayna runs in, he boots but she blocks! Shayna YANKS Reggie from the corner and has an ANKLE LOCK! Reggie endures, rolls and sends Shayna into buckles! Shayna comes back, he ducks a kick to SPINNING CROSSBODY! Shayna is down and Reggie hurries to a corner!
Reggie manages to climb with one good foot, and MOONSAULTS! But Shayna moves! He lands on his feet but that only messes him up more! Shayna is a shark with blood in the water, KIRAFUDA- FIRE?! The pyro of the ring goes off and spooks Shayna! Reggie victory rolls, REGGIE WINS?!?
Winner: Reginald, by pinfall
The sommelier beat a two-time NXT Women’s Champion and WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion!! Shayna is furious but Nia is elated! Nia gives Reggie a big hug, but what does this mean for the tag team partnership?
Backstage interview with Drew McIntyre.
All that stands between him and another WWE World Championship match is Kofi Kingston. Is he ready? Tonight is all about Kofi VS McIntyre. No Lashley or MVP, no BS. McIntyre respects Kofi, has known him a long time and knows he’s a great family man and a great friend. Everything Kofi’s gotten, he’s earned. Maybe a couple weeks ago, if McIntyre hadn’t interfered, Kofi would’ve still won. Kofi said as much himself. Even though McIntyre grabbed MVP’s cane so MVP wouldn’t hit Kofi with it and then hit Lashley. Who is McIntyre to question another former world champion?
McIntyre isn’t one to judge, but once upon a time, he was just like Kofi, putting everyone else’s needs before his own. That cost him. He lost everything and had to change everything. He had to think of himself, and sacrifice things. Part of those sacrifices was choosing not to extend his family. Kofi fights for his kids, of course he does. But McIntyre chose not to have kids right now so that he could invest everything, all the days, hours, minutes, seconds, into this industry. But one day, there will be a Lil’ Drew crawling around, who McIntyre will tell about Scottish folklore and legend. McIntyre’s favorite is the one about the 6’5″ fire-breathing Scottish dragon slayed The Beast, something Kofi never did.
So while McIntyre respects Kofi and likes him a lot, tonight is about McIntyre willing to do everything Kofi isn’t, and run right through him to go to HIAC and face Lashley to get that title back! So to answer the question, McIntyre is MORE than ready! Now bugger off. But will a Claymore be what ends #KofiMania2 before it even begins?
Mace & T-Bar VS Lucha House Party!
The towering titans are back in action after missing out on that All Mighty Open Challenge a couple weeks ago. But will these monsters mangle Gran Metalik & Lince Dorado to start taking over the tag division?
Raw returns as LHP makes their entrance. The teams sort out, T-Bar starts with the Golden Lynx, and T-Bar rushes in! Lince dodges, fires off hands and kicks but T-Bar shoves him away to then run him over! Lince flounders up to a corner, T-Bar runs in to back body block! T-Bar gets Lince up to a fireman’s carry but Lince fights free, to a SLEEPER! Lince is a backpack, Metalik tags in but T-Bar throws Lince away. Metalik ENZIGURIS, Lince dropkicks legs out, then Lince gives Metalik a boost for a SPLASH! Cover, ONE!! Metalik gets T-Bar up but that’s too much man to suplex! Mace reaches out and tags in, T-Bar scoops Metalik! Metalik slips out, but gets a HIGH LOW!!
Mace drags Metalik up to suplex and NECKBREAKER! Mace runs to drop a BIG elbow! Cover, TWO!! Metalik survives but Mace keeps right on him. Tag to T-Bar, Mace dribbles Metalik while T-Bar runs. Mace gets Metalik up for T-Bar’s BOOT! Cover, TWO!! Metalik is still in this but T-Bar ROCKS him with right hands. Tag to Mace, they stomp mudholes into Metalik, then T-Bar tags back in. Mace lines up the shot but Lince gets in to dropkick him! Metalik BOOTS T-Bar, LHP dump Mace out! T-Bar BOOTS Metalik but Lince DIVES at Mace! But into his SCRAPBUSTER! Metalik springboards into a BOOT from T-Bar!
Tag to Mace, he and T-Bar dead lift Metalik for HIGH JUSTICE!! Cover, T-Bar & Mace win!
Winners: T-Bar & Mace, by pinfall
They promised the extinction of Lucha House Party, and this was damn near close to that! Will these brutal behemoths do the same to the rest of the Raw roster?
Alexa Bliss and Lily swing backstage.
Alexa saw what happened! It was so exciting! What a night for Reggie! What better way to celebrate his win than him joining them on Alexa’s Playground? Be there or be square! Will Reggie accept the invite to this twisted play date?
Sheamus heads to the ring!
The Celtic Warrior is a fighting champion, emphasis on fighting, but what does he have planned tonight? We’ll find out after the break!
Raw returns and Sheamus has a mic to say, “Look at that! Another week, another victory for your valiant United States Champion!” And he can’t wait to go on the road again so he can defend HIS title in every major city in America. But the problem is in WWE is that people don’t lose like real men. Humberto and Ricochet can’t take losses. They’d rather try and embarrass their champion. But here’s a message for you lads: go buy some participation trophies because that’s the closest you’re going to get to the title!
Sheamus cues up footage from last week, where he beat Carrillo with some controversy, then added insult to injury, only for Ricochet to attack him! Ricochet and Carrillo both took to the air to hit Sheamus over and over, which is why he’s a little upset this week. Sheamus asks if those two look like championship material. That’s nothing! Where Sheamus comes from, that’s just scumbag behavior! Everyone asks why he hasn’t defended his title since WrestleMania 37, and there’s the answer! The Open Challenge was designed and created by him so he could find someone worthy enough at this beauty of a belt! Carrillo and Ricochet have only shown that they’re not fit to lace his boots!
Sheamus is smart, he won’t face those guys in a Triple Threat. But he will go back-to-back cuz that’s the kind of champ he is! And when he’s done with both, he’ll send them both back to obscurity! The question is, which one of those Muppets is brave enough to take the first arse kicking? Sheamus waits, and it’s the ONE AND ONLY first!
Sheamus VS Ricochet!
The bell rings and the hands start flying! Sheamus CLUBS Ricochet, whips him to ropes, but Ricochet kicks back! Ricochet fires off more hands, Sheamus hits low and scoops, but Ricochet slips off! Ricochet dumps Sheamus out, builds speed and slides, but into Sheamus’ body shots! Sheamus scoops and FALL AWAY SLAMS Ricochet into barriers! Sheamus drags Ricochet up and puts him back in the ring, then climbs up. Ricochet stands, Sheamus leaps for a FLYING LARIAT! Ricochet gets turned inside-out, but Sheamus drags him up. Carrillo makes his entrance? This isn’t a Triple Threat or Handicap, but it is a DISTRACTION! Ricochet rolls Sheamus up, and WINS!!
Winner: Ricochet, by pinfall
The Fella is FURIOUS! Dale Gas just got the better of Sheamus and now it’s HIS turn! Sheamus is so mad, will he cost himself against Carrillo?
Sheamus VS Humberto Carrillo!
Raw returns and Ricochet is still ringside to watch this match, but Sheamus stomps a mudhole into Carrillo in a corner! The ref counts, Sheamus lets off to argue about Carrillo’s joking around, and then he whips Carrillo corner to corner. Sheamus runs in to RAM Carrillo, runs to knee lift and keeps going to CLOBBER Carrillo! Sheamus glares at Ricochet but Ricochet stays back. Sheamus throws hands on Carrillo but Carrillo fights back. Sheamus knees low, whips Carrillo to the corner, but Carrillo boots back. Carrillo hops up but Sheamus YANKS him down! Carrillo goes to the apron, Sheamus drags him up and bends him against ropes!
The ref counts, Carrillo pries free of Sheamus’ grip to throw elbows! Carrillo HOTSHOTS Sheamus away, then steps in to leap, into the IRISH CURSE! Ricochet admits that hurt. Ricochet coaches Carrillo but Sheamus stomps Carrillo and kicks him at the ropes. Sheamus stalks Carrillo to a corner, gets him up and reels him in to CLOBBER him! Sheamus says he can do this all day! Especially since he’s getting paid. Sheamus gives Carrillo Beats of the Bodhrain in the center of the ring, then clamps on with a chinlock. Sheamus stretches Carrillo back, Ricochet and fans rally for Carrillo, and Carrillo fights up. Carrillo throws body shots and then a JAWBREAKER!
Sheamus staggers, Carrillo goes to a corner. Sheamus runs in but Carrillo dodges to POST him! Ricochet taunts Sheamus, Sheamus swings on Carrillo but Carrillo fires off CHOPS and forearms! Carrillo kicks, Sheamus spins him, DRAGON WHIP! Sheamus staggers again, Carrillo dropkicks him down! Sheamus staggers up, Carrillo runs in but Sheamus catches him and puts him on ropes, to DECK him! Carrillo tumbles down, Ricochet checks on him, but Sheamus goes out to BOOT Ricochet down! Sheamus’ nose is busted and he bleeds on himself, but he revels in it! Sheamus puts Carrillo in, talks m ore trash to Ricochet, but Carrillo builds speed and DIVES! Direct hit!!
Carrillo gets Sheamus in the ring, goes up top, and leaps for a CROSSBODY! Sheamus catches Carrillo, swings him and SLAMS him! Sheamus smiles through the blood and he drags Carrillo back up to talk trash. Sheamus is pissed about the busted nose but he’s aiming from the corner, Ricochet gets in but Sheamus catches him! Carrillo hits a FLYING CHUCK!! Roll up, Carrillo wins!!
Winner: Humbert Carrillo, by pinfall
Sheamus wanted to face them both, and he LOST to both! Granted, this felt like a Handicap match, the very thing Sheamus was trying to avoid! Will the fighting champion have no choice but to put that championship on the line now?
Eva Marie speaks.
“The WWE is where everything took off for me.” It’s where her journey to greatness started. But there came a point where she needed to take a break and find herself. She wanted to see how that hard work could apply to other things. Life will knock you down, but you have to have the courage to get back up. You have to fight to earn your way and for what you want in life. So she’s back to finish the fight she started. Not only will she be a voice for herself, but for the superstars in the making. This is Eva-Lution.
Naomi & Lana VS Mandy Rose & Dana Brooke!
The Ravishing Glow and the #SexyMuscleFriends both want after Natalya & Tamina and those WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships! But that means going through each other! Will Mandy & Dana feel the glow? Or will they flex on Naomi & Lana on the road to the gold?
Raw returns as Mandy& Dana make their entrance, and the champions are on commentary to watch this closely. The teams sort out, Dana and Lana start. They tie up, Lana headlocks, but Dana powers out. Lana rolls, dares Dana to do something, and things speed up. Lana hurdles, rolls but Dana leaps over to return the favor. Naomi tags in and Lana rolls Dana to a lateral press, for Naomi to drop a leg, brother! Naomi takes over the cover, TWO! Naomi keeps on Dana with a facelock, then shifts to a headlock for a buckle bulldog! Lana tags in and she hits a regular BULLDOG! Cover, TWO! Natty says she taught Lana everything she knows, but Lana doesn’t know everything Natty knows.
Lana tags Naomi back in, they hand off Dana to wrench for a headlock. Dana powers out, Naomi stops herself to elbow back. Naomi wheelbarrows but Dana SLAMS her down! Dana drags Naomi up and over to tag in Mandy. They double whip and double FLAPJACK! Mandy covers, TWO! Mandy stalks Naomi to ropes, digs her knee into her, then lets off as the ref counts. Mandy waistlocks to SLAM Naomi, then holds on. Naomi reaches for Lana but Mandy keeps her away with another SLAM! Mandy still holds on, whips Naomi to the corner, then runs in but Naomi fires off forearms! Naomi DECKS Dana, fireman’s carries Mandy, and hits a MODIFIED GUTBUSTER!
Naomi BUZZSAWS Mandy, covers, TWO! Naomi drags Mandy up and over, tags in Lana, and they have Mandy. Dana runs in but Naomi tosses her out! But as Naomi PLANCHAS Dana, Mandy and Lana switch waistlocks back and forth! Mandy O’Conner Rolls but has to KNEE FROM A ROSE to Naomi first! Lana rolls Mandy up, TWO!! Lana trips Mandy, jackknife, TWO as Mandy bridges out! Mandy has the arms, Lana slips free but Mandy whips her to the corner. Lana BOOTS back, Dana gets up but Lana ROCKS her! Mandy RAMS Lana, Dana tags in! The SMF coordinate, for a FLYING NECKBREAKER SAMOAN DROP! Cover, SMF win!!
Winners: Dana Brooke & Mandy Rose, by pinfall
Dana & Mandy call out Tamina & Natty and the champs are ready! Will the statement making, bone breaking, title taking second generation superstars make sure they’re titles aren’t taken so easily?
Shelton Benjamin VS Cedric Alexander!
The Gold Standard says he’s a survivor, but he’s 1v1 with PRIME! Something’s gotta give, but will Benjamin shut Alexander’s mouth once and for all?
Raw returns and Alexander makes his entrance, talking trash all over again. The bell rings and Benjamin BOOTS Alexander down! Benjamin drags Alexander up to club and hammer and reel Alexander in. Alexander thumbs Benjamin’s eye to avoid the bomb! Alexander dodges and ducks to NEURALIZER! Cover, ALEXANDER WINS?!
Winner: Cedric Alexander, by pinfall
Alexander talks trash again because he just punked out the veteran! Is there no denying that it is #PRIMETIME?
Elias talks with Jaxson Ryker backstage.
“We are up against AJ Styles and Omos tonight for the tag team titles!” Ryker, are you listening? Does he understand what they’re up against? Omos almost threw Elias through the LED boards! Elias was almost electrocuted again! He knows they have a huge opportunity and can win, Ryker showed that against AJ Styles last week. Styles is no match for Ryker but Omos is a different breed! He’s barely human! He’s bigger than anyone Elias has ever seen! Is Ryker listening? Elias needs to know Ryker has his back. Has Ryker ever been to battle like this before? Ryker finally snaps out of it, and asks if Elias has ever been in battle. Ryker served in Iraq. Is that all the answer Elias needs for tonight?
Backstage interview with Kofi Kingston.
Kevin Patrick knocks on the New Day’s door and Kofi says hey. Kofi knows this is about McIntyre’s words earlier, but Kofi’s going to address what McIntyre didn’t say. Kofi read between the lines, and felt like McIntyre implied the connections Kofi has with family and friends are somehow detriments. Oh~ no~! The reason Kofi is so successful is because of family and friends. He pushes himself for them. But why is McIntyre acting like he can take cheap shots? Kofi respects everything McIntyre has done in the industry, all his sacrifices to be at the top. But what Kofi doesn’t respect is the shots he takes when saying McIntyre slayed the Beast and Kofi didn’t.
Kofi knows what happened between himself and Brock Lesnar, he was there. The people know, they saw it. But if you blinked, you probably missed it. But if McIntyre wants to take cheap shots, then allow Kofi to give one! Don’t forget what happened two short weeks ago when Kofi did what McIntyre hasn’t in months, though it feels like three years. McIntyre’s had so many chances and yet he has not been able to beat Lashley. Regardless of how it happened, Kofi pinned the WWE World Champion, Bobby Lashley, on his first try!
So McIntyre is going to run through Kofi? No, Kofi and McIntyre are going to go out there, give it everything they’ve got. Blood, sweat, tears, effort, energy, all here tonight, and when it’s all said and done, Kofi will beat McIntyre. Then Kofi goes to HIAC to beat Bob Lashley again to become the NEW! TWO TIME! W, W, E, World, Heavy, Weight, wait for it… Wait… CHAMPION! Will #KofiMania2 be inevitable?
Raw Tag Team Championships: AJ Styles & Omos VS Elias & Jaxson Ryker!
The Phenomenal Grand Slam Champion and his MASSIVE amigo are going to defend their titles on television against The Drifter and one battle-hardened, hard hitting veteran. But will Styles & Omos be ready now that they’re standing together?
Raw returns as Elias & Ryker make their entrance. The introductions are made, the titles are raised, and we see if the challengers can be more than phenomenal!
The teams sort out, Styles starts against Ryker, but Elias ambushes Styles! Ryker bails out because now it’s Elias starting against Styles instead! Elias gets Styles up to bump him off buckles, then CHOPS him! Elias fires off forearms, Styles flounders but Elias CHOPS him! And ROCKS him! Styles reaches for Omos but Elias whips him to the open corner. Elias runs in but Styles BOOTS him! Styles ROCKS Elias with haymakers, stomps him down, then gets him up for a snap suplex! Cover, TWO! Elias grits his teeth while Styles looms over him. Elias throws body shots and snap suplexes in return! Cover, ONE! Elias drags Styles up to DECK him!
Elias drags Styles up, snapmares and drops a knee! Elias runs, but Ryker tags in without warning. Ryker gets Styles up but Styles throws hands! Styles whips, Ryker reverses but Styles slides out to trip up Elias! Styles then gets back in the ring before Ryker can get him, and Styles DECKS Ryker! Styles builds speed to WRECK Ryker and send him into Elias, who tumbles onto the announce desk! Omos is fired up for that phenomenal move as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Ryker drags Styles up for a suplex! Cover, TWO! Ryker clamps on a chinlock and grinds Styles down. Styles endures, fights his way up and throws body shots. Ryker turns Styles around to RAM him into buckles, face first! Styles is dazed as Ryker gets him back up. Ryker snapmares and clamps on another chinlock. Styles endures again, fights his way up, and throws more elbows! Ryker spins Styles around again but Styles ducks to PELE! Both men are down and the ThunderDome screens fire up! Both men crawl, hot tag- Elias leaves the corner?! Styles tags Omos and Ryker doesn’t understand what’s going on!
Omos stalks up behind Ryker, Ryker turns around, and Omos clamps on a CLAW!! Omos THROWS Ryker to a corner, Elias leaves up the ramp and Omos back elbows Ryker down! Omos drags Ryker up to whip corner to corner hard, and Ryker crumbles! Omos runs corner to corner to BACK BODY BLOCK! Ryker flops down, Omos looms over him, and drags him back up. Omos says Ryker’s not talking tough anymore as he reels him in for a LARIAT! Elias is watching and feels bad, but not bad enough to go back to the ring. Styles tags in, takes aim and springboards, PHENOMENAL FOREARM! Cover, Styles & Omos win!
Winners: AJ Styles & Omos, by pinfall (still Raw Tag Team Champions)
The Drifter drifts away, why did he ditch his tag partner? And even then, what duo can possibly stand to the towering Omos and Phenomenal AJ Styles?
Nia checks in with Reggie backstage.
She knows she’s been acting like a Nervous Nelly and she saw him handle himself in the ring, but is he sure he wants to accept Alexa’s invitation? She’s kinda weird… But what can go wrong? A lot! Reggie appreciates her concern, but he will be fine. Alright, but just be careful because they still need to celebrate. He can call if he needs her. Reggie agrees and goes looking for The Playground. Will he find his way there? Will he regret it if he does?
Elias hurries away backstage.
He’s looking around because he’s worried Ryker will find him, but Kevin Patrick finds him first. Kevin asks him why he did that to Ryker, and Elias says Ryker has become unhinged. When Ryker came to Elias, he knew he could rely on Elias. Ryker opened up to Elias and his genius. Elias knew that he could help Ryker focus his strength and mold him into something special. But last week, when Elias was in danger, Ryker ran away! Ryker’s priorities are out of whack! But Ryker beat AJ Styles last week. Yes, with Elias’ help! Where was Ryker when Elias needed help?
Now, Ryker is a veteran and Elias respects that, truly. Ryker is also an incredible athlete with strength and stamina through the roof but he’s unpredictable. That is what worries Elias. WWE is about to get back on the road, millions of people who finally get to Walk With Elias again. But the idea of being locked in a car, driving for hours and hours at a time with Ryker makes Elias sick. Elias won’t be around him anymore. Will Ryker make Elias regret walking away from him?
Alexa welcomes us to The Playground!
She and Lily are so excited. So much so, that Lily is getting impatient. Alexa wants to introduce us to their new friend, Reginald! Have a seat, Reggie. Alexa promises they don’t bite. Well, she doesn’t. But Reggie, she wants to congratulate him on his win over Shayna! That’s pretty neat. How does he feel about it? Aside from what happened to his leg, he feels great. It’s not often that- Sorry, Lily has a question first. But what is it? Reggie can’t answer what he doesn’t know. Oh, right, sorry! You can’t hear her, duh~! Lily wants to know about his time in Cirque de Soleil. She loves the circus!
But Shayna shows up to throw Reggie down! And beat him up! Alexa covers Lily’s eyes as Shayna throws Reggie out of the playground. Shayna takes a seat now, and Alexa hates to say this, but she wasn’t really invited. It’s only because Lily doesn’t like her. Sorry. Is that so? Well, Alexa’s becoming a big problem. Shayna showed us how she handles problems. So before things get out of hand, maybe they should have a little chat. See you next week, Alexa. In the ring. Shayna gets right in Lily’s face and says she’s just a stupid doll. Shayna heads out, but will she regret being a bully?
The Viking Raiders talk with Mansoor backstage.
Erik & Ivar tell Mansoor that before every live event, he needs to make sure he’s well rested and well fed. That’s going to be really important when the WWE gets back on the road. And the roar of a live crowd? That is something you will never forget! But to get the fans really pumped up, you need a chant or a war cry. Try something like… “RAID!” Mansoor takes a second, and gives a big strong “RAAAAID!!” Now he’s getting it! And don’t forget to have fun out there. And don’t suck. Welcome to Raw, kid! Mansoor appreciates that, but then he turns around and sees Mustafa Ali.
Mustafa tells Mansoor not to trust people here. They’re all just trying to get ahead, and they will stab you in the back. Believe him, he knows. Don’t trust the Viking Raiders or anyone! Then why should he trust Mustafa? Now you’re getting it. Whose path will Mansoor follow as WWE gets back on the road?
MVP and Lashley continue to party with the ladies!
Kevin Patrick walks in to ask for a quick interview. He knows they’ll be watching the main event, but do they have a preference? Would Lashley rather face McIntyre or Kofi again at HIAC? MVP says they’re going to love learning who will lose in a world title match at HIAC. But instead of talking about destruction, let’s talk positive things! KofiMania was one of MVP’s favorite moments. McIntyre took a long road to the title. They respect both men and their stories, but not as competition.
Lashley reminds us that he beat McIntyre at WrestleMania 37, and without McIntyre, Kofi would’ve never beat Lashley. But it is funny that they’re focused on someone doesn’t even compete here instead of realizing that none of them will take this title from him. MVP says he’d love to be ringside for this, but Pearce made it very clear that they’re banned since he doesn’t like their “viewing habits.” Harsh, but the executive suite with the ladies and the champagne is way better than a 90 day suspension with no pay. So it doesn’t matter. Neither one will end the All Mighty Era. Now get out of here, Kevin, you’re ruining the mood.
WWE World Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Drew McIntyre VS Kofi Kingston!
The Scottish Warrior and Power of Positivity Power Ranger are finally going to settle this one! Both men want the world title back around their waist, and are willing to go through hell at Hell in a Cell to get that belt! But who will go through the other to punch that golden ticket?
The bell rings and McIntyre RAMS Kofi to a corner! McIntyre stomps, punches and keeps Kofi cornered to CHOP! Kofi gets away, McIntyre stalks after him and ROCKS him with a right hand! McIntyre whips Kofi to ropes, Kofi gets around and goes for the crucifix takedown but McIntyre stays up! Kofi shifts to sunset flip, TWO! McIntyre is up but Kofi rolls him up, TWO! McIntyre CHOPS Kofi down and Kofi ends up in a corner! McIntyre looms over Kofi, stands him up and CHOPS him again! Kofi is stinging but McIntyre brings him up, and runs to the ropes! Kofi turns that into a body scissor toss that sends McIntyre tumbling!
Kofi then SPRINGBOARD TRUST FALLS! Direct hit and Kofi fires up as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns and Kofi fires off on McIntyre in a corner! McIntyre shoves him away and hits a GLASGOW KISS Headbutt! McIntyre snarls, drags Kofi up for a dead lift suplex! And McIntyre holds him up, Kofi tries to fight free, but McIntyre SLAMS him down! Cover, TWO! McIntyre drags Kofi back up, ROCKS him with a right, and stomps him in the corner! McIntyre drags Kofi up again, reels him in, but Kofi swings around the lariat to a GUILLOTINE! McIntyre endures, powers up and gets the suplex! Kofi knees through this time to cradle, TWO! BUZZSAW! Kofi BOOTS McIntyre down then rebounds off ropes to SPLASH! Cover, ONE!!
Lashley and his ladies watch as McIntyre gets up. Kofi KICKS McIntyre in the side, has him in a corner, and throws hands! Kofi stomps, goes corner to corner, and forearm smashes! Kofi keeps moving, and he forearm smashes again! Kofi runs, McIntyre dodges and OVERHEAD Belly2Belly suplexes! McIntyre grits his teeth as he glares at Kofi. McIntyre hauls Kofi up to TOSS him overhead again! Kofi flounders into the corner, the ref checks on him, but he’s okay to continue. McIntyre scoops Kofi, but Kofi counters to another cradle! TWO, and McIntyre BOOTS Kofi! McIntyre fires off hands against the ropes but lets off as the ref counts 4!
Kofi flounders against the ropes, McIntyre gets him back up, but he swings into the SOS!! Cover, TWO!! McIntyre survives but this is what he’s been known for since facing Lesnar at WrestleMania 36! Kofi keeps moving, but McIntyre bails out before a Boom Drop. Kofi climbs up and SUPER TRUST FALLS, but is caught! McIntyre TOSSES Kofi over barriers and into LED boards on the other side! Kofi writhes and McIntyre seethes as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns once again and McIntyre has Kofi in another corner. McIntyre stomps him, drags him up, and whips him corner to corner hard! Kofi bounces off buckles and McIntyre looms over him again. McIntyre drags Kofi up, shoves and scoops for a tilt-o-whirl BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Kofi survives but McIntyre clamps on for a motorcycle stretch. McIntyre digs that knee into Kofi’s back, but Kofi endures, showing why WrestleMania 35 was the original #KofiMania! Kofi fights up but McIntyre knees him in the back! McIntyre has Kofi in a corner to CHOP him again! McIntyre puts Kofi up top, throws hands, then climbs up to join him.
McIntyre throws hands but Kofi hits back! They brawl, McIntyre gets the edge with haymakers and headbutts! McIntyre fireman’s carries Kofi, but Kofi moves around to SUPER POWERBOMB!! McIntyre is down and Kofi crawls to a cover, TWO!! McIntyre gets one arm up and Kofi can’t believe it! Kofi bobs ‘n’ weaves around McIntyre to fire off DOUBLE CHOPS! And a dropkick! McIntyre kicks back, whips Kofi to a corner, but Kofi goes up and up to dropkick again! Cover, TWO! Kofi keeps his focus as he gets McIntyre back up. Kofi headbutts McIntyre! Kofi aims from a corner, powers up with the “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” clapping, and spins… but no Trouble In Paradise!
McIntyre swings on Kofi but back into SO- NO! McIntyre underhooks Kofi for a SWINGING BUTTERFLY, into the FUTURE SHOCK!! Cover, TWO?!!? Kofi survives and McIntyre is shocked! McIntyre sits up and looks at Kofi. McIntyre gets Kofi up to a fireman’s carry, but Kofi fights free! Kofi boots from a corner, then runs, into a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife cover, TWO!! McIntyre is growing frustrated as Kofi survives again! McIntyre shakes his head and gets Kofi back up. McIntyre underhooks again, but Kofi slips out to SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO!! That’s still not enough but Kofi still has more to try!
Kofi goes to a corner while McIntyre is down. Kofi climbs, but McIntyre gets up to ROCK him with a right! McIntyre growls, climbs up to join Kofi again, but Kofi trips him up! Kofi fires off headbutts and haymakers on McIntyre! McIntyre is in a Tree of Woe, but he sits right up to TOSS Kofi away! McIntyre gets out of the Tree, takes aim from the corner, and he demands Kofi stand up. Kofi drags himself up in the opposite corner, CLAY- TROUBLE IN PARADISE!!! Kofi crawls to the cover, ROPEBREAK!!! McIntyre survives by mere inches and Kofi is stunned! Kofi drags McIntyre back up, throws hands in a corner, then whips corner to corner.
McIntyre reverses, Kofi goes up and up and RANAS! McIntyre falls out of the ring, Kofi goes to the apron to PENALTY KICK! And FLYING STOMP!! Kofi hurries to get McIntyre up and in! Kofi climbs, McIntyre writhes, Kofi leaps, into a CLAYMORE?!?! Cover, McIntyre wins!!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the WWE World Championship)
This was truly a match worthy of a championship! McIntyre didn’t steamroll Kofi like he said he would, but he did win out. Kofi and McIntyre show respect for each other with a handshake, but Lashley shows up now that the ringside ban has been lifted! Lashley holds up the title but McIntyre says it’s only a matter of time! Will the Scottish Warrior survive hell and the All Mighty to once again be on top of the world?
My Thoughts:
Tonight was somehow decent, but I did fear it was another non go home episode coming down with Go Home Syndrome at a certain point. It was the recaps again, but they stopped around Sheamus’ double header. And speaking of that, I should’ve figured Sheamus was going to get his comeuppance here. He wasn’t going to win both, and it would be a bit rough on the math to have Sheamus win one and lose the other. Sheamus fighting through that bloody nose was badass, though. I have a feeling WWE is copy and pasting another Triple Threat here, and Sheamus can use Ricochet and Carrillo against each other so he comes out the winner.
Miz TV to open was alright, as was the Beat the Clock Challenge copy and paste. At least this time, Nikki was the one putting the pressure on her opponent, as she should have with Rhea last week. Charlotte and Rhea are now even in that regard, and it’s great for Nikki to finally be involved in things. But whether it’s Rhea or Charlotte after HIAC, I don’t see Nikki beating either in a match with no time limits. Meanwhile, I should’ve figured Alexa and Lily would mess with Shayna. Reggie won but ended up paying for it, and if we’re getting Shayna VS Alexa next week, that might finally give us an idea as to how Lily will get involved in the ring.
Good to see Naomi & Lana VS Mandy & Dana tonight to get a Raw team going after the Women’s Tag Champions. It was a good match, #SexyMuscleFriends winning makes sense as Lana is still just outside of being a championship level superstar. Plus, Mandy & Dana having strength and athleticism makes for a good match up with the technical Natty and even stronger Tamina. Though I will say again, this would be the one time I would actually welcome another Triple Threat. Raw’s contenders, Mandy & Dana, battling SmackDown’s contenders, the Riott Squad, as well as the champions would make for a very exciting title match at a PPV where both brands would be present by default.
I like that instead of getting superstars giving promos right to the camera to hype up WWE’s return to touring, they integrated them into conversation promos that also advanced story. Mansoor being new to Raw, he’s basically a clean slate in terms of Face and Heel, so I like that there was a lightside VS darkside moment. Does Mansoor trust the Viking Raiders about, uh, being a healthy and responsible Face? Or does he believe Mustafa Ali and become a shark Heel that only looks out for himself? At the very least, Mansoor VS Mustafa would be a great match, and maybe even a great tag team to battle the Viking Raiders.
Priest, Riddle and Orton were good in the other conversation promo. They basically reworked what Riddle said on Raw Talk last week, which makes it seem like Raw Talk doesn’t matter to them. But it does make it canon that Orton approves of Riddle using the RKO. Orton VS Woods was a really good match, not quite Riddle VS Woods last week, but I love that Orton used the Bro Derek in return now. We have to be getting Styles & Omos VS RKBRO at HIAC for the titles, we just have to. Styles & Omos of course retain their titles, but I feel it’s a shame Elias & Ryker break up as a team. The RawDown Tag Divisions have so little as it is, they should’ve let those two stick together a little longer.
Elias’ turn on Ryker of course turns Ryker into a Face, and using a Memorial Day Raw as the time for it was a logical move. Elias VS Ryker is going to carry these two to at least HIAC, maybe a little past that, and WWE will have a new patriotic and beefy Face they’ll try and get fans to rally behind, not having learned from how AEW and Cody Rhodes have gotten some flack over making a USA VS Not USA angle out of Cody Rhodes VS Anthony Ogogo. Ryker is still a good powerhouse wrestler who doesn’t really have to say much, and he could’ve had Elias as his musical hype man, but I guess Elias as a Face just doesn’t work for WWE.
But what the hell with Benjamin VS Alexander tonight? For one, immediately getting a tiebreaker match here seems too soon. One or both of them should’ve been facing other singles competitors as a way to one-up each other. And then they’d have the tiebreaker that’d be the best match of them all. But Alexander made Benjamin look like a chump! I can get if Benjamin is entering a crisis of confidence story where he has to redeem himself, but it just seems way too easy for Alexander to cheat Benjamin and win like that. Benjamin has been with the WWE too long to be treated like that, even if it is to put a young star over.
Lashley and MVP partying with the ladies all night was at least the logical move. If they couldn’t be ringside, they’d play up the Hurt Business big money gimmick. I am curious as to Lashley mentioning something in his promo about “someone who doesn’t even compete here.” “Here” meaning Raw, and I assume that person in question is Roman Reigns. But no one mentioned Roman did they? Tonight or last week. But if it is to keep the parallel alive and to set up Lashley VS Roman at Survivor Series, I like that at least someone is planting that seed.
Then the promos from McIntyre and Kofi were both great, McIntyre VS Kofi was an awesome main event, PPV worthy in itself, but I am both a little surprised and disappointed they defaulted to McIntyre. I do get that if you go back to over a year ago, Backlash 2020, that was McIntyre VS Lashley round one, McIntyre won. WrestleMania 37 was round two and Lashley won. HIAC 2021 would be round three and the true blow-off, and then both men can wash their hands of the feud. But just because fans aren’t in the arena to pop for Kofi winning, I know we all would’ve been excited at home to see it happen.
Perhaps this is WWE already planning ahead for once. Whether it’s McIntyre or Lashley winning at HIAC, Kofi can face the champion at MITB for his long overdue rematch for the title. KofiMania 2 may not happen at WrestleMania, but as long as it happens, the live fans will love it. So long as Mr. MITB doesn’t cash in and take it away from him again on that same night, that is.
My Score: 8.1/10
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IF YA SMELLALALALALALA~…!
As Cody Rhodes teams with Damian Priest & Braun Strowman against Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline, FINALLY, The Rock has come back to SmackDown!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso; Jimmy wins.
- The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & LA Knight; Miz & Melo win.
- Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae w/ Nia Jax; Tiff wins.
- Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez; No Contest.
- WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly; Pretty Deadly wins, by disqualification, and DIY retain the titles.
- Six Man Tag: Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga; changed to…
- Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga; Priest & Braun win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes talks with Nick Aldis backstage.
They shake hands, but the SmackDown General Manager tells the WWE Champion there’s been a change: Cody’s out of the Six Man Tag match. What? Why would Aldis do that? It is out of Aldis’s hands. Wait, Solo Sikoa shows up to do what he did, but they can’t do the Six Man Tag that they advertised? How is this out of Aldis’s hands? Who do they need to talk to so they can do the match? Aldis says there’s no one either of them can call, if you smell what’s cooking. This is coming from The Final Boss, and The Final Boss wants to see Cody in the ring tonight. What business could The Great One have with The American Nightmare?
Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso!
The Scottish Terminator rubbed it in Big Jim’s face that only one of them is going to Elimination Chamber in Toronto, which Big Jim was able to brush off. But McIntyre harping on how only one Uso is going to WrestleMania was a step too far. These two look to have it out, but is Jimmy just playing into McIntyre’s hands? Or will McIntyre get embarrassed by “the other Uso” this close to that big time match?
Speaking of, Jimmy has a message for Drew as he heads to gorilla. “Everybody know you’re going to Elimination Chamber, right? But Big Jimmy got a question for the Big Easy: Will Drew go onto the Elimination Chamber and win that? Will Drew go onto WrestleMania and win that? Ey, Drew, I think we got an answer for you, Uce. The answer is…” “NO YEET!” Jimmy makes his entrance, the bell rings, and the fans rally behind Jimmy. Jimmy and Drew jaw, and then Drew raises his hands, to say UP YOURS! But Jimmy ROCKS and CHOPS away! Drew puts Jimmy in a corner, Jimmy dodges to CHOP!
Jimmy climbs and he rains down fists! The fans count, Drew dumps Jimmy tot eh apron at 5, but Jimmy GAMANGIRIS! Jimmy goes up, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Jimmy hurries to CHOP, then he whips. Drew reverses to send Jimmy to the corner. Jimmy BOOTS back, goes up, and leaps, but into a clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders to a corner, Drew runs up to SPLASH and OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders again, the ref has Drew hold on, and Jimmy bails out. Drew storms out to get Jimmy and he whips Jimmy HARD into barrier! The fans boo but Drew looms over Jimmy.
The ring count starts, Drew mockingly calls him “Jey,” then puts Jimmy in the ring. Drew says NO MANIA for Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, ROCKS him, then runs up, only for Jimmy to put him on the apron! Drew blocks a superkick, but not the DRAGON WHIP! Drew drops, Jimmy DIVES! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! Jimmy grins, goes back to the apron, and then aims. But Drew stops the Penalty Kick to THROW Jimmy down! Drew then has Jimmy in the Reverse Alabama Lift! REVERSE ALABAMA SLAM onto the steel steps! Drew stands on the desk to say “NO YEET!” while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew revels in the heat from New Orleans, then he leaves Jimmy behind. The ref checks Jimmy, he’s able to continue, so a ring count starts. Drew paces while Jimmy stirs. Jimmy drags himself up using the desk, then lunges in at 9! Drew is annoyed but he rains down fists! Drew stomps Jimmy, then eggs him on. Jimmy rises as the fans rally, but Drew is right on him in the corner. Drew winds up, but Jimmy counter punches! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And whips, only for Drew to reverses. Jimmy goes up, but Drew KICKS him out of the air! Drew then hauls Jimmy up, snap suplex! Cover, TWO!
Drew says okay, Big Jim. He clamps onto Jimmy with a top wristlock and grinds the arm. Jimmy fights up, fireman’s carries, but Drew elbows free. Drew bumps Jimmy off buckles, then hauls him up to the top rope! Drew CLUBS Jimmy on the back, climbs up, then CLUBS Jimmy more. Jimmy fires elbows and Drew drops back. But Drew runs up to CLUB Jimmy again! SmackDown returns to single picture as Drew CLUBS away on Jimmy again! Jimmy keeps taunting “Jey,” then drags him up. Jimmy fights the back suplex! The fans rally, Jimmy fires hands and a HEADBUTT! Jimmy SMACKS Drew off the post!
Jimmy rises to USO IN THE WIND! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! A standing count starts while both men stir on the mat. They both stand at 5, and Drew swings! Jimmy counter punches, then fires more shots! Mule kick, UPPERCUT, but then Jimmy dodges Drew! SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Drew is tougher than that, but Jimmy hurries to a corner. Jimmy aims as Drew goes to the other corner, “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs, but Drew FLYING HEADBUTTS! The Glasgow Kiss stuns Jimmy, and Drew hits a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Jimmy shows his own toughness, and the fans rally behind him.
Drew paces, then he stalks Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, reels him in, but Jimmy fights the underhooks! Jimmy wrenches, UPPERCUTS, but Drew ROCKS Jimmy back! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, Drew HAYMAKERS! Drew whips, Jimmy reverses and Drew ends up on the apron! Drew ROCKS Jimmy first, then climbs the corner! FLYING- SUPERKICK! Jimmy runs to SPEAR! Cover, TWO!! Drew survives, Jimmy’s spear doesn’t hit quite like The Tribal Chief’s. Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and the fans rally up. USO- NO, Jimmy rolls through as Drew moves! Drew dodges a lariat to NECKBREAKER!
Both men are down, the fans rally, and Drew kips up! Drew scowls as he aims at Jimmy. “THREE! TWO! ONE!” CLAY- SUPERKICK!! Jimmy hits first! GLASGOW KISS returns! Drew reels Jimmy in, “This is your WrestleMania! This is as close as you get!” Drew shouts Jimmy is nothing, then ROCKS him with forearm after forearm! GLASGOW KISS! Another Reverse Alabama, but Jimmy victory rolls it! JIMMY WINS!!!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Drew is furious, but his own ego caught him there! But then Drew CLOBBERS Jimmy! The fans boo Drew being a sore loser, but he puts Jimmy back in the ring! Drew rains down fists, then he DRIBBLES Jimmy off the mat! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but Drew says that was Jimmy’s Mania Moment! Drew will win the Chamber, he will go to Mania, and he will win there! Jimmy means NOTHING to Drew! Drew puts Jimmy up against the post, then takes aim! The fans boo, but refs and producers rush out here! They swarm Drew to keep him from going after Jimmy again. Drew says fine, fine, then takes his leave.
Producers help Jimmy to his feet, but then Drew BLASTS through the refs! CLAYMORE for Jimmy!! The Scottish Terminator hits his target, then laughs as he actually leaves. Will McIntyre make this his Road to WrestleMania?
A car pulls into the parking lot.
And out steps Solo Sikoa. Solo heads inside, and he finds Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga waiting. Solo tells them that last week with Tama, that was an accident. Jacob says yeah, it’s all good, Uce. But keep it 100: If it wasn’t an accident, Solo wouldn’t be standing here right now. Well, good! Glad to see we’re all on the same page. Solo says he will be in the corner during the match for Jacob & Tama. Uh, no, Solo, no disrespect, but Jacob & Tama have been running things on SmackDown these past couple weeks. So tonight, it’s Jacob & Solo running the play? Yadada mean? Yeah, of course. And that right there, Jacob, is exactly why Solo loves him.
Solo says he’ll be back, he has to talk with Nick Aldis. Solo heads out, but will he really just step right back into place from before he lost the ula fala?
Carmelo Hayes is backstage.
R-Truth calls out to Melo, and says for the first time ever, Truth VS Melo! What’s Truth talking about? Duh, they have a match. No, Truth, Melo knows. But they had a match last week. Truth says he has never met Melo in his life, but they have a tag match tonight. What? No, they don’t. Who even made this match? Him. Truth, they are not going through this H1M who’s on first thing again. Melo is H1M. No, him made the match. The Miz!? Miz says he’s H1M. So now there’s two of you? No no no! Melo is H1M, this is The Miz! Yeah, #MeloDon’tMiz! NO! That’s not a thing! Tonight, they are. Who’s Truth’s partner?
Truth says he’s got a guy. A Louisiana legend! In fact, he just got here, so Truth’s gotta go. Laters. Miz says he has been workshopping this, and the fans love it. Think about it: Melo Don’t Miz! Melo Don’t Miz! And we are…! Melo shakes his head. Truth steps in and says Miz just wants Melo to say, “Awesome.” Miz offers a fist bump, Melo says no. Will Melo wish he had missed tonight’s show? Or will Miz actually help H1M get another win?
Zelina Vega speaks.
“My whole life, people have taken one look at me, and they try to define me. My size has never stopped me before. It never stopped me from becoming tag team champion. Or my personal favorite, the history-making first-time-ever Queen of the Ring. That’s me. Make no mistake about it, I’ve never had it easy. I had to scratch and claw to get anything around here. But this is a fresh start. Because I have something to prove. And my dreams are a lot bigger than your measuring stick. It ain’t over until Zelina Vega says it’s over.”
The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & ???
Miz makes his entrance but Melo kinda steps all over it. So he already missed his cue… But who did Truth find to team with him in the Big Easy? We’ll see, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Truth makes his entrance. “What’s up?” Well, more like who is his partner? He’ll tell us! His tag team partner is a local legend, born and bred right here in New Orleans! Ladies and gentlemen, welcome Louisiana Knight! Wait, he means L A Knight! Yes, Louisiana abbreviated is LA, but that’s not… Oh, Truth… Truth gives Knight a Po’ Boy and some Mardi Gras beads, so Knight embraces it. The teams sort out, and Truth calls out him! Does he mean Miz or Melo? Well, Melo says he is H1M, so that’s who starts. The fans cheer on Knight while Truth and Melo tie up. Melo KNEES low, whips, but Truth reverses.
Melo springboards, FADEAWAY JUMPER! Melo makes his free throw, but Truth drop toeholds! Truth headlocks, Melo powers up and out but Truth whips! Melo turns hip toss into lateral press, TWO! Truth has a ghost pin, TWO! Melo trips to cover, ONE! Truth trips to cover, ONE! Melo runs up, Truth does the splits, and then hits a BIG hip toss! The fans fire up, Truth counts, Melo gets up at TWO, but Truth was just goofing. The ref explains to Truth that he is the ref, not Truth! Melo is annoyed, he runs up on Truth, but Truth wrenches him around! Melo pulls hair but Knight tags in. The fans fire up as Knight fires hands!
Knight ROCKS Melo, whips Melo, but Melo reverses! SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Knight drags Melo up to tag Truth back in, and Truth ROCKS Melo! Melo staggers, but he refuses to tag! Truth arm-drags Melo, then grinds the arm. Melo insists he’s got this, then arm-drags free. Truth staggers up, he and Melo bump heads! Truth staggers around more, and he tags Miz?! Truth forgot The Awesome Truth isn’t a thing anymore! Again! Melo BLASTS Truth off the apron, the fans boo, but Miz tags himself in! Melo is annoyed, but Miz goes to fetch Truth while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again, and Melo has Truth. Truth ROCKS Melo, but Melo holds onto the wristlock! Truth reaches for Knight, Knight reaches for Truth, but Melo holds on. Truth takes a swing, but into an O’Conner Roll! TWO and Melo BLASTS Knight! Truth rolls Melo up, TWO! Melo kicks low, calls his shot, but Truth suplexes for a STUNNER! The fans fire up while both men are down! Truth and Melo crawl, hot tags to Miz and Knight! The fans fire up as Knight rallies on Miz! “YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips, Miz reverses, but Knight lEAPING LARIATS! Knight TOSSES Melo in for good measure!
Knight stomps a mudhole into Melo, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” LARIAT for Miz! KNEE for Melo! Knight scoops and POWERSLAMS Miz! Knight keeps running, JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Knight stays on Miz as he brings Miz up. Knight ROCKS Miz, then ROCKS him again! Knight whips, Miz grabs the ropes. Miz KICKS, then takes a swing, but into a back suplex! Miz lands out, tag to Melo! Miz ELBOWS Knight, but Knight scoops! Miz tilt-o-whirls through, Melo SUPERKICKS Knight down! cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Melo says he’s got this! Melo waits on Knight, then leaps, but NO 48!
Knight kicks low, but NO B F T! Tag to Truth! Knight ELBOWS Melo, Truth runs in! CENA SHOULDER TACKLES! Then the SPIN OUT BOMB! Truth says it’s time! “YOU CANT SEE ME~!” truth runs for the FIVE KNCUKLE SHUFFLE! Truth then fireman’s carries, but Melo slips free! Melo shoves, Truth dodges, and Truth hits the LIE DETECTOR! Truth then gets Melo in the S T R-TRUTH! But Miz CLOBBERS Truth! Knight ROCKS Miz, then LARIATS him up and out! Knight then goes out to THROW Miz into barriers! The fans fire up again, but NAKAMURA ATTACKS KNIGHT!
The fans boo, but the sinister samurai then POSTS Knight!! Nakamura slithers away while Melo keeps the ref’s attention! Truth sees Knight is down, Melo runs up, but Truth dodges! Miz tags in, full nelson, and a FIRST 48 FINALE COMBO?!? Cover, Miz & Melo win!!
Winners: The Miz & Carmelo Hayes, by pinfall
Well, what do you know? Nakamura aside, Miz and Melo made it work! Okay, they’re both trying to hog the spotlight, but is there a future for Melo Don’t Miz? Will Knight only have more of a reason to take that title off Nakamura now?
Charlotte Flair speaks.
“The GOAT… doesn’t have to call themselves The GOAT. Now, I have crafted a legacy that no one, I mean no one, can touch. And I’m back.” The Women’s Royal Rumble Winner chose Tiffany Stratton, but will The Queen take back her throne? Or will WWE always be on #TiffyTime? Speaking of…
Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae!
The WWE Women’s Champion may have gotten past Nia Jax, but now she knows Charlotte Flair is waiting for her at WrestleMania, and is going to be teaming with Trish Stratus in Toronto! Will she be in Tiffy Top Shape for that Tiffy Trishy dream match? Or will the Poison Pixie be quite the problem all on her own?
Before the match, Tiff grabs a mic while the fans cheer. Tiffy says, “I know, I know. You know it, you know it, and you know it. Ever since I won this title, everybody’s just been so obsessed with me. And last week, I had Nia Jax beat, until Candice LeRae decided to interfere and help her little meal ticket. And at Elimination Chamber, Trish Stratus and I make sure the Unstoppable Force comes to a definitive end!” The fans cheer that, but Tiff says enough about them. Let’s talk Charlotte Flair. The fans boo that name, but Tiff says Charlotte took her sweet old time, grabbed a chair, grabbed a mic, and she looked down on Tiff.
Charlotte chose Tiff as her WrestleMania opponent. In that moment, Tiff’s dream came true! And as she lied down there and looked up at Charlotte, she realized the rumors are true: No one loves to kick a girl when she’s down quite like Charlotte Flair. So at WrestleMania, Tiff isn’t coming for Charlotte’s legacy; that’s all Charlotte’s. Tiff is coming for the spot Charlotte desires the most: The number one spot as the top girl in the WWE! But here comes Nia & Candice to interrupt. Nia has a mic to tell Tiffy, “I Have to say, this is really cute. Like, it’s really cute that you actually think you were gonna beat me last week.”
Doesn’t Candice think that is cute? Candice says yes, it is so~ cute. And Tiff wouldn’t even be standing there if not for little Trish Stratus~. Exactly! And it’s even cuter that Tiff is out here talking about Charlotte when she wont’ even see WrestleMania! Because after Nia & Candide destroy Tiff at Elimination Chamber, Nia is coming back for her WWE Women’s Championship. Nia & Candice step up to the ring, and Nia says Tiff won’t even see the Grandest Stage of Them All. Tiff tells Nia to just give it up. This title isn’t even hers anymore. And once Tiff beats Candice tonight, Nia won’t have anyone to do her dirty work anymore!
Candice tells Tiffy that while they’re meant have a match right now, she and Nia are feeling impatient. Nia says they should just get rid of Tiff right now! But the ref steps in and says not gonna happen! Tiff VS Candice will, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Candice has Tiffy down with an armlock. Tiff fights up as the fans rally, but Candice wrenches to wristlock. Tiff spins through, goes to ropes, then up the corner to flip and arm-drag! The fans fire up as Tiff rallies on Candice! DROPKICK, and Tiff snarls! Tiff goes to the corner, and Charlotte makes her entrance? The Queen chooses to be fashionably late all so everyone looks at her, including Tiffy. Tiffy handsprings, but Candice dodges! Candice runs up to UPPERCUT, then she snapmares and NECK SNAPPERS! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Candice clamps onto Tiffy with a top wristlock.
The fans “WOO~” as Charlotte now chooses to join commentary. Tiff fights up, has the ROPEBREAK, but Candice CLUBS away on her! Candice backs off, runs up, but Tiff drop toeholds her to ropes! Tiff runs, HIP ATTACKS, and Candice flops back! Cover, TWO! Tiff stays on Candice with a whip, but Candice reverses. Candice CLOBBERS Tiff, covers, TWO! Charlotte corrects Tiffy’s words earlier: Charlotte isn’t the “top girl,” she is THE woman in WWE. Candice HIP DROPS Tiff but the fans rally up. Candice scuffs Tiff, then grinds an arm to drop a knee on the elbow! And another knee drop! Tiff endures and the fans rally up.
Candice keeps on that arm, thrashes it around, but Tiff fights up. Tiff fires body shots, then shoves Candice to Alabama Lift her! Candice sunset flips, Tiff rolls through, TIFFY STOMPS! Cover, TWO! Tiff is frustrated and Candice bails out. Tiff goes to the apron, goes up the corner, and ARIHARA MOONSAULTS! Direct hit on Candice and Nia, and Tiff almost stuck the landing! The fans fire up with Tiff and she goes into the ring. Tiff points to the WrestleMania sign, and then at Charlotte, but SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Tiff waits on Candice, Candice slides in, and Tiff stomps her down! Candice bails out, Nia is there to coach her, but Tiff lets the ring count start. Candice gets on the apron, Tiff kicks her, but Candice RAMS Tiff! Candice CLUBS Tiff, has her in the ropes, and hits a NECKBREAKER HOTSHOT! Candice climbs, aims, and leaps to MISSILE DROPKICK Tiff down! Cover, TWO! Candice is frustrated but this is why Tiff’s a champ. The fans rally, but Candice stomps Tiff! Candice scowls at the fans, stalks Tiff, then brings her up. Tiff fires body shots, then she rolls Candice up! TWO, and Candice CLOBBERS Tiff! Cover, TWO, into a ghost pin! TWO!
Candice escapes to hit a CODE BREAKER! Both women are down, but Candice scowls again as she crawls over to Tiff. Candice rains down fists, Nia tells fans to shut up, and Candice steps on Tiff’s face. Candice huffs ‘n’ puffs, pushes Tiff around, then scuffs her. Tiff rolls Candice up again, TWO! Candice DECKS Tiff! Cover, TWO! Charlotte is stoic on commentary as Candice drags Tiff up and puts her in a corner. Candice fires hands, then backs off. Candice runs up to ROCK Tiff again! Candice then runs, but Tiff dodges! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Tiff rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT! The fans fire up, Tiff handsprings, BACK ELBOW!
Tiff then reels Candice in for a SKY HIGH! High stack, TWO! The fans rally for Tiff, Nia coaches Candice, but Charlotte still seems nonplussed. Tiff and Candice rise, and Candice runs up. Candice puts Tiff on the apron, but Tiff ROCKS her! Tiff bumps Candice off buckles, then goes up, but Candice ROCKS her back! Candice climbs up, and she fires hands on Tiff! Tiff fights the suplex! Tiff DECKS Candice, then adjusts position, to SANTON- FLOP! Candice ghost pins, TWO!! Tiff escapes, but Candice hits the step-up SENTON! And then a LIONSAUL FLOP! Tiff hurries to fireman’s carry, ROLLING SENTON! And then PRETTIEST MOON- NO, Nia drags Candice out of the ring!
The fans boo, Nia tells them to shut up, but Tiff is on the apron! Nia swings, Tiff cartwheels over, and then she DROPKICKS Nia! Tiff Alabama Lifts Candice, to ALABAMA SLAM her into barriers! Tiff stares down Charlotte, tells her just wait for Mania, then she puts Candice in the ring. Tiff goes to the corner, PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Cover, Tiff wins!
Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall
Charlotte gives moderate applause, but Nia CLOBBERS Tiff from behind! The fans boo, but Nia just drags Tiff to a corner. Nia goes up, but wait! Trish is here!! The fans fire up for the legend as she rushes into the ring! Trish avoids a haymaker to CHICK KICK! Then THESZ PRESS for Candice! And then a SPINEBUSTER! Trish helps Tiff to her feet, but Nia grabs them both! Trish fires fast hands on Nia! Candice CHOP BLOCKS Trish! Tiff is still dazed, Nia HEADBUTTS her back down! Nia & Candice mug Trish, and then Nia HEADBUTTS Trish! Trish & Tiff are side by side, and Nia drags them into the drop zone! A-NIA-LATOR!!
The fans boo but there’s nothing can be done! Nia grins as she helps Candice away, will these two trash Trish & Tiff in Toronto? Charlotte steps into the ring, stands over Tiff, and points to the WrestleMania sign. Will The Irresistible Force & Poison Pixie unwittingly do the dirty work of The Queen of Flair?
Cody talks with Damian Priest backstage.
Priest asks why Cody’s boy, The Rock, is here tonight. Cody says given the time of year, his guess is as good as anyone’s. But tonight will surely be eventful. Cody congratulates Priest on entering the Elimination Chamber. Priest says what’s wild is, last year, they both walked out as champions. What sucks is that this year, only one of them can. Now, Priest is man enough and he respects Cody to say that after Chamber, he’s coming for that title. Cody says he wouldn’t have it any other way. Cody heads out, but what business does The Rock have tonight?
Braun Strowman steps in, and he tells Priest that congrats on winning, and good luck in the Chamber. But let’s be honest, Braun had Jacob dead to rights last week. If not for Solo Sikoa, things would look a lot different next week. Priest chuckles and says take it easy, he’s sounding like Drew with the excuses. But it is what it is, Priest just beat Braun to the punch. But that was last week. Tonight, Solo and Jacob, two of the baddest men in the business. Priest & Braun handling business? Oh, they’re handling business. The only business Braun cares about is getting his hands on those two. Priest says Braun definitely will.
Braun heads out, will the Monster of All Monsters and the Archer of Infamy make sure Solo & Jacob #GetTheseHands? Or will the rogues run roughshod all over SmackDown once again?
Backstage interview with Naomi & Bianca Belair.
Byron Saxton is with the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and brings up last week’s SmackDown, the security footage led us to believe Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez were the ones behind Jade Cargill’s attack. Now, hold on, Saxton. They don’t think, Naomi knows they were. Fair enough. But this Monday, they can get their revenge when they defend the tag titles against Liv & Raquel. How ready are they for this match? Bianca says so ready! They have been waiting for months for an update. Jade has been recovering, she hasn’t been able to call or text, so the GlowEST took matters into their own hands to get revenge.
Bianca & Naomi will handle Liv & Raquel, then move on to Elimination Chamber, where one of them is gonna win to face Rhea at WrestleMania. Not only will you #FeelTheGlowEST on Monday, but Liv feels it tonight! #Let’sGLOW! The champs head out, but will they clear their Road to WrestleMania of any other distractions?
Alexa Bliss speaks.
“When I was away, there was a lot of… change that happened in me. But when I look around, I see this place is still the same. The names and faces may be different, but the desperation and insecurity remains the same. You’ll see Toronto when I turn the Elimination Chamber into something of a playground of my own. I know the Chamber. I love the Chamber. I’ve won the Chamber. And for the other five women, it’s gonna be a Hell like they’ve never experienced before. Need I remind you, this is my division, and I am in charge.” Bliss smiles and says, “See you soon.” The film comes off the reel, but will things get twisted in Toronto?
Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez!
The Big Easy is all about having fun, and they’re fired up for Naomi’s entrance. But wait! Liv & Raquel don’t wait, they attack Bianca & Naomi while the lights are still down! They mug Naomi, but Bianca drags Liv out of the ring! Then Bianca storms in to fire off on Raquel! The fans fire up, but Liv returns to CHOP BLOCK Bianca! Raquel hauls Bianca up for a TEJANA BOMB!! Naomi runs up, fires more hands, but Liv brings Naomi around. Naomi fires hands on her, but Raquel throws her down! Liv runs up, OBLIVION!
Liv & Raquel stand tall, the refs rush out here, but clearly the singles match isn’t happening. Will we be getting something even meaner and nastier between these four on Monday?
The Rock arrives!
His truck pulls into the parking lot, but we’ll see him in the ring, after the break!
SmackDown returns and…
Aldis is chewing out Liv & Raquel for the attack. He doesn’t know what they get away with on Raw, but they can’t pull that crap here. Now get the hell out of his building. Liv & Raquel just laugh that off, but then Chelsea Green & Piper Niven walk in. Chelsea says have no fear, Chelsea & Piper are here to sub in for Bianca and Naomi at Elimination Chamber. Aldis sighs, and says they’re not missing the Chamber. What? But Chelsea had an outfit picked out! This is a travesty to not have the greatest Canadian export since maple syrup on a Canadian PLE! Does he know who she is? The first-ever, longest reigning, tallest, shortest, prettiest, richest, tannest, sparkliest, oldest, youngest Women’s US Champion! Piper asks what this is aboot, eh?
Aldis says this is them testing his patience. They need to pack their gear and whatever else they want, because they’ll be in action next week on SmackDown in Toronto. And oh, it’ll be a good one. Wait, they need more details! At least an e-calendar notification? Aldis is leaving Chelsea in the dark on what’s coming, will she absolutely hate it?
The Rock heads to the ring!
Wait, what is this New Orleans related remix? The Final Boss steps out on stage, he shows those goosebumps, then continues down the ramp, shaking hands with fans. The Rock hits his signature pose on the corner, but then takes the long way around to pick up a fan’s phone for them before going back into the ring. The fans all cheer for “ROCKY! ROCKY!” and he grabs himself a mic. He waits as the fans continue to chant his name, and then he says, “Ahh, you feel it, don’t you? You feel it. The Rock has got chills up and down his body because you know, on a Friday night, for the Final Boss to get inside his bird and fly all the way here, you know that I’m dropping some ish on you tonight!”
The fans fire up and The Rock smiles. Rock says, “Let’s get this show on the road.” The fans anticipate what’s coming but he says hold on, he’ll do it. “FINALLY! The Rock has come back…” “TO NEW ORLEANS~!” Rock smiles, and he adds, FINALLY, WrestleMania is coming back to New Orleans!! The fans are thunderous to hear that! WrestleMania 30, WrestleMania 34, and now WrestleMania 42!? Yes, next year, 2026, LIVE from the Superdome! One of the greatest cities on Earth in New Orleans, Louisiana! The pyro goes off to commemorate the occasion, and the logo is already on the tron! Rock smiles at that, then he smiles at the WrestleMania 41 Vegas logo.
The fans are losing their minds, as we now know April 11th and 12th, 2026, the Big Easy has the Grandest Stage of Them All. Rock says you damn right holy ish! Oh when the saints go marching in…! Oh how I’d love… Wait, no, this ain’t singalong with The Final Boss! Sit there, shut up, and let The Final Boss sing the song! The fans are torn, but Rock says he sings! Oh how I’d love, to be in that number~! Oh when the saints go marching in~! Okay, that’s good enough. You got him, that was a great duet. The Rock is singing with the largest collection of STD’d trailer trash he has ever seen! The fans can’t believe Rock would do that to them!
Rock says now, dropping this news wasn’t the only gift he was going to drop on us. The Final Boss came here to call somebody out. The Rock will call out a man who he respects, who he admires, and who we all admire. That man is our WWE Champion, the one and only, Cody Rhodes. The fans cheer as The American Nightmare makes his entrance! They sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” and we get Cody’s pyro before he goes to the ring. Cody gets his second “WHOA~ OH~!” and round of pyro, then he steps inside to join The Rock. The fans cheer Cody on, so he holds up the title and the fans cheer even more.
Cody grabs a mic, but Rock says, “That feels good, doesn’t it? I mean, that’s gotta feel amazing, right? They love you, man.” Cody tells NOLA, “I love you, too.” Rock says this is crazy. Pretty much no one knows this, but since after WrestleMania last year, they’ve actually become good friends. No, it’s true, they have. Last time they were together was the Raw Netflix debut. Rock gave Cody his flowers, told Cody he has carried the company like the incredible champion that he is, so thank you, Cody. Rock meant it, and that night, they went to the back, drank tequila for two hours and had a great ol’ time.
They chopped it up, had a blast, but Rock wants to call Cody out here for something important. Here’s the thing… The fans get a bit rowdy as they wait, and Rock says Cody is a great champion. A great WWE Champion. Cody knows that. Again, they’ve become good friends, so over the months, they’ve texted. Even their moms became good friends! Look! Mama Johnson & Mama Rhodes together after WrestleMania 40! It is a pleasure becoming Cody’s friend. But Rock wanted this face to face to tell him a few things. One: Cody has been a great champion, but he needs to understand. Yes, The Rock, The Final Boss, is on the Board of TKO. And TKO owns WWE.
The Rock is the Director of the Board of TKO. Don’t boo that! The Rock’s good friend, Ari Emanuel, who owns everything Endeavor, The Rock joked with Ari, “Can you believe that you own The WWE?” Ari says he doesn’t own the WWE, The Rock does. Rock said no, no, he doesn’t know if he owns the WWE. But The Rock knows he is the most powerful… Cody, you are a great champion. But Rock wants Cody to be something more. Rock wants Cody to be something more than just our champion. Rock wants Cody to be his champion. The fans don’t like where that’s going.
Cody says he did not expect them to become friends, nor their moms to become friends, nor the tequila. Cody didn’t have that on his bingo card. But becoming The Rock’s champion? The Rock of all people should know, Cody is the people’s champion. The fans cheer Cody more, and Rock says yes! Cody is their champion! Of course! The Rock is also The People’s Champion, he loves that about Cody. This is their universe, they were both born into this business. But Rock means something even bigger than just this. Rock knows Cody’s goal is to bring as much joy and happiness to everyone around the world, as many as possible.
The fans cheer, and Rock says that’s Cody. Cody is that guy, and everyone knows it. Cody is on social media, Instagram, millions of followers. Millions, and millions! The Rock has half a BILLION. That’s not a flex. But The Rock is the most followed American man in the world, that’s what he wants for Cody. Rock wants Cody to be even higher. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, he will open doors to possibilities Cody never even imagined. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, every dream he has ever had can come true. Every dream of Brandi’s, of their daughter’s. Think about how Rock brought them to the premiere of Moana 2, in Hawaii.
Thank you, by the way, for making that cross a BILLION dollars, fans, Rock loves you. Rock has met the Rhodes family, they’re amazing. But imagine it: Cody’s daughter’s children, their dreams, long after Rock and Cody are gone, all those dreams can come true. Rock just needs Cody to be his champion. The fans say don’t do it! Rock tells Cody to just think about it, though. Rock is a very lucky man, he has it all. Cody also has it all. They’re very fortunate. They’re Mama’s Boys, they’re Girl Dads, they’re lucky men. Fans say don’t do it, Rock tells them to shut up or he’ll slap the syphilis off their face! Rock is trying to have a moment here, shut your mouths!
The one thing that Rock has never had, that he wants more than anything, is a brother. And that is what Cody can be. Last year, WrestleMania, Rock’s goal was to face his cousin, Roman Reigns, for the title. Cody knows, the fans know. Rock talked with his friend, HHH. He talked with Nick Khan, who is his friend. They are also Cody’s friends. Rock knew it wasn’t in the plans, but they talked about moving Cody aside to make what was best for business: Rock VS Roman, WrestleMania 40! What’d Cody do? Cody pitched a b*tch fit! Cody told The Rock he ain’t doing it, and he stood up to The Rock. And y’know what else? Cody SLAPPED Rock!
No one does that and gets away with it. But that is why Cody is special. That is why Cody should be Rock’s Champion. And that is why Rock will take Cody from where he is to a level so far above. Rock will make sure every dream, every desire, for generations to come, it all comes true. Rock’s dad, Cody’s dad, Soul Man & American Dream, they are looking down right now. They were friends, Cody and Rock are friends, Cody should be Rock’s Champion. He doesn’t need to answer Rock tonight. He can think about it, talk with his wife and daughter, as will The Rock. Then Cody can think about it. Meet Rock in Toronto on March 1st to give him the answer.
Fans still say don’t do it, but Rock says it is okay. Before he leaves, this has been an amazing night, this is a hot crowd, thank you all very much. But before he leaves, Rock wants us to know this: The one thing Rock wants more than anything in this world… is that. Wait, the title? Cody’s title? The fans’ title? This is all this is about? No no no no! Brother… Rock doesn’t want the title. He wants Cody’s soul. The fans duel, “NO! NO! NO!” “SELL YOUR SOUL!” Rock pats Cody on the cheek and says see you in Toronto. The Rock leaves, giving Cody a lot to think about. Rock does give one last glance back at Cody, then smirks.
What will The American Nightmare choose: His integrity? Or his aspirations?
WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly!
Did Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano got these titles thanks to Kit Wilson & Elton Prince? #YESBOY! Did they survive a couple title defenses thanks to Kit & Elton? #YESBOY! But when Pretty Deadly needed DIY, was DIY there for them? #NOBOY! So now, Kit & Elton are looking to give Ciampa & Gargano their comeuppance! Will we finally get another #SidePlateCheck? Or will Ciampa & Gargano remember for themselves, that if you wanna be champions, you gotta do it yourself?
But as DIY make their entrance, they have mics, and Johnny Wrestling tells NOLA, “Give it up one time for your TWO-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions…! The BTTITW (Best Tag Team In The World), D I Y~!” The fans boo instead. Ciampa says there is no denying that tonight has been electrifying. Gargano says this is a hot crowd. But please, if we could be somber for a second. Guys, this is serious. Two weeks ago, Pretty Deadly embarrassed DIY, and now reluctantly, DIY will return that favor by crushing their hopes and dreams of ever becoming WWE Tag Team Champions. So please, let us all rise to our feet… Yes, you in the LSU jersey, stand up.
Ciampa thanks Wade Barrett, and asks for everyone to remove their hands and bow their heads for a moment of silence for Pretty Deadly, beginning… now. The fans boo instead! And then Pretty Deadly make their entrance! The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really needed who in this broken relationship!
But then DIY jumps Pretty Deadly! The ref reprimands, DIY whip but Pretty Deadly reverses! DOUBLE DORPKICKS! Then DOUBLE LARIATS send DIY up and out! The disco ball hasn’t even stopped spinning! The fans cheer while DIY throw a fit! They regroup, cool down, and go back to the ring. Gargano distracts Elton, Ciampa CLOBBERS him, and the bell rings. But Elton fires hands on Ciampa! Elton whips, Ciampa reverses and he pulls hair! The ref reprimands, Ciampa throws Elton to the apron and KNEES him down! Tag to Gargano and he aims, SUPERKICK! Elton goes down in a heap, DIY cheers themselves on, and SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns, Gargano tags in, and DIY hits the BACK SUPLEX BOMBO COMBO! Cover, TWO! Elton stays in this but Gargano tags Ciampa back in. Gargano sends Ciampa in, but Elton ELBOWS him away! Gargano runs in, but Elton puts him on the apron! Gargano goes after Kit, but Kit blocks the kick! Kit BOOTS Gargano down, but then Ciampa BOOTS Kit! Elton dodges Ciampa to come back, DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! Elton and Ciampa are down, sputtering and writhing, and the fans rally up. Elton crawls, Kit rises, hot tags to Kit and Gargano! Kit rallies on DIY with big forearms! Kit whips, Gargano reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS!
Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa in a corner, then LARIATS! Kit runs to LARIAT Gargano! Kit pushes Gargano down, kicks him and hits a TWIST- NO, Gargano slips through to ROCK Kit! Kit yoyos, DOUBLE LARIATS! The fans fire up, Kit tags Elton! They get Gargano up, but Gargano BOOTS Elton! Gargano ELBOWS Kit away, then runs up on Elton! Elton dodges, then gives Kit the boost, DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Gargano survives but Ciampa is in! Elton fireman’s carries Ciampa, but Ciampa slips free! Ciampa whips, Elton reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa! Elton shows off his strength with the GOTCH LIFT PLEX!
Tag to Kit, but IN COME THE PROFITS! Ford SHOVES Kit down, Dawkins mugs him!!
Winners: Pretty Deadly, by disqualification; DIY retain the titles
Not again! Just like they did Motor City Machine Guns, The Profits make sure no one else takes these titles off DIY! URENAGE from Ford to Elton! Dawkins keeps hammering away on Kit, and then Ford POSTS Elton! Dawkins fireman’s carries Kit, to POST him, too! Looking like the All Mighty with that one! Gargano fires forearms in return, but ends up int he POUNCE GERMAN SUPLEX! Then Ciampa runs up into a FLAPJACK! Ford goes up top, then flies in FROM THE HEAVENS!! Direct hit on Ciampa! But wait! MCMG rushes out here, wanting their payback! The Profits brawl with MCMG, but Ford TOSSES Shelley to the apron!
Ford runs up, Shelley goes to kick, but Ford blocks it! Ford LARIATS Shelley down, Dawkins hits Sabin with THE BIG ENDING! The fans are torn as Dawkins whips Sabin, Profits get him for the REVELATION!! And if there’s been any revelation, it is that Ford & Dawkins don’t just want the smoke, they want to burn down the tag division to get it! Will nothing stop them once they’re back in action?
Kevin Owens speaks.
“You got what you wanted, huh? You got your match. You couldn’t, uh… You couldn’t just take the punishment that you deserved, that I’d already given you, and let it go. No, you… You wanted me and you to go again. You wanted to fight me, you want to hurt me, you want to end my career, which would hurt my family, by the way. Which is truly despicable. But what about your family, Sami? Huh? Have you thought of them? What about your family, huh?” Kevin reveals he is right outside the Zayn home! Kevin peers inside to watch Sami, his wife, and his son!
Kevin asks Sami via the video if Sami knows what he’s about to put them through, when they have to watch Kevin end Sami’s career. And what happens then, eh? When Sami can’t provide for them, and everything they have, like this nice house, the shelter, the security, the peace they have, when it’s all gone? And why? What for? Because Sami’s too proud? Because Sami’s selfish? Sami IS selfish. Because Sami is making Kevin do this to Sami’s family. Kevin will never forgive Sami for that. He’ll see Sami in Toronto. “But remember… You asked for this. It’s all your fault.” As if Kevin’s delusions aren’t already grand, will he continue to blame everyone else but himself?
Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga!
Elimination Chamber is on the horizon, and the Road to WrestleMania makes for strange bedfellows. Priest, Braun and Jacob were fighting each other just last week, but Solo’s return really threw things for a loop. Can Priest & Braun give Solo and the Samoan Werewolf their punishment? Or will everything (not) be fine in Solo’s Bloodline?
SmackDown returns as #OneBigSOB makes his entrance. As Solo, Jacob & Tama head to gorilla, we hear from Solo. “Tonight, we handle business. And it starts with Braun Strowman & Damian-” Jacob interrupts with, “Man, c’mon, DP! C’mon, Braun! I thought we did this! So tonight, we about to even up the score. If you ain’t know, I’m all gas, no brakes with it! See, since we touched the scene, we been dropping bodies like bread crumbs! Yadada mean!? FA-TUUU~! Hit my music!” The rogues enter to Jacob’s theme, is this alone proof he’s the new alpha? Or will the match be the last nail in that coffin?
The teams sort out, but Jacob stares down both Priest and Braun. NOLA seems to acknowledge Jacob, but Solo convinces him to stand down. Solo starts against Priest, the bell rings, and the two tie up. They go around, Priest powers Solo back, but Solo powers Priest back. They break, stare down, and Solo talks some trash. Solo shoves Priest, Priest shoves back. They circle again, tie up, and Priest puts Solo in a corner. The ref counts, Priest lets off at 4, but Solo stomps Priest’s foot! Solo throws hands, then a HEADBUTT! Priest staggers, but then he ROCKS Solo! And ROCKS him! And HEADBUTTS! That was a mistake!
Solo shakes his head to HEADBUTT Priest! Priest goes to a corner, Solo throws haymakers and body shots on repeat! The ref counts, Solo lets off and says see? Solo and Jacob as one! But Priest THROWS Solo to the corner to fire off haymakers of his own! Priest ROCKS Solo, the fans fire up, and Priest whips., Solo reverses to UPPERCUT! Solo talks smack but Priest ROCKS him again! Tag to Braun and the fans fire up! Braun stares Jacob down, tells him to shove it, then runs up to SPLASH Solo! Braun stares Jacob down again, goes back for Solo, and hits another LARIAT! Braun scoops, Solo slips free, but Braun runs up!
Solo ELBOWS Braun away, tags to Jacob, and Jacob runs in, but Braun dodges! Braun CROSSBODIES! Jacob is right up, but Braun BOOTS him right back down! Solo runs in but Braun TOSSES him! Priest hurries after Solo, Braun CLOBBERS Jacob! LEAPING LARIAT for Solo! Braun then gets on the track, STROWMAN EXPRESS SMACKS a chair out of Tama’s hand! The Good Bad Guy thought he was being sneaky! But then Jacob CROSSBODIES Braun into the timekeeper’s aera! The fans go wild as Jacob rises up, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Jacob hauls Braun up, drags him around the way, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him over to SMACK off the desk! Braun staggers, but he ROCKS Jacob in return! And THROWS Jacob into steel steps! Braun drags Jacob up, puts him in the ring, but Jacob SUPERKICKS Braun! Braun falls into the corner, Jacob HIP ATTACKS! Jacob’s all geeked up, then he tags in Solo. Solo soaks up some heat while Jacob HIP ATTACKS Braun again! Solo puts Braun on ropes to CHOKE him! The ref counts, Solo stops at 4, but Jacob gets a HEADBUTT in! Braun flounders, Solo taunts him and eggs him on, but Braun CHOPS him!
Solo HEADBUTTS Braun right down! Solo rains down fists, then lets off so he can put Braun on the ropes. Solo CHOKES Braun again, stops as the ref counts 4, and Jacob gets another cheap shot in! Solo tags Jacob in, then he HEADBUTTS Braun again and again! Jacob runs to BODY CHECK Braun! Jacob fires up, Braun flounders to ropes, but Jacob rains down fists! Tag to Solo, he soaks up heat from NOLA, then he stomps away on Braun! The ref counts, Solo lets off, then he keeps Braun from Priest by anchoring a leg. Tag to Jacob and Jacob climbs up, FROG SPLASH! Jacob roars while Braun writhes!
Jacob looms over Braun but he glares at Priest. Priest gets heated, but Jacob fires hands on Braun as SmackDown returns to single picture. Braun stands, but Jacob HEADBUTTS him again! Jacob runs for another BODY CHECK! And then a SENTON! Cover, TWO! Braun stays in this and he goes to a corner. Jacob snarls, tags Solo in, and the fans boo. Solo runs corner to corner to HIP ATTACK Braun! Solo grins as he copies Jacob’s geeking out. Tag back to Jacob and fans cheer! Jacob aims, runs, and HIP ATTACKS! Jacob keeps going, but Braun BOOTS from below!! The fans fire up while both men stagger to their feet.
Braun SPINEBUSTERS Jacob! Both monsters are down, the fans rally up, and they crawl, hot tags to Solo and Priest! Priest fires hands on Solo, then whips. Solo reverses but Priest SHOUDLER TACKLES Solo! Priest runs to BACK ELBOW! Jacob is back, but Priest dodges to WHEEL KICK! Priest then waits on Solo, but Solo catches Priest! Priest elbows free, but Solo SUPERKICKS! But Priest JUMPING ROUNDHOUSES! Solo comes back, Priest ROCKS him first! Solo swings, but into the FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Solo survives but Priest puts him in a corner. Priest whips corner to corner, then runs, only for Solo to put him on th eapron!
Solo takes as swing, Priest dodges and ROUNDHOUSES! Priest then knuckle locks with Solo, goes up top, and he tightrope walks for some OLD SCHOOL! The fans fire up and Priest powers up the arm! Priest runs, but Solo ducks the Comebacker! Priest fights the fireman’s carry to BELL CLAP, ROUNDHOUSE, and then he reels Solo in! But Tama is on the apron! Priest DECKS Tama, but Jacob HOTSHOTS Priest! Solo hits the URENAGE! Cover, TWO!! Priest survives and Solo is stunned! Solo snarls, looks to his taped-up thumb, then he drags Priest up. The fans boo but Solo taunts the fans now. SAMOAN- NO! Priest grabs Solo!
But Jacob runs in! Priest ROCKS Jacob, ELBOWS Solo, then he dodges, so Jacob’s SUPERKICK hits Solo! An accident just like last week’s shot to Tama, but Jacob doesn’t seem as upset by it. Priest TOSSES Jacob, then CLOBBERS Solo! STROWMAN EXPRESS CLOBBERS Jacob & Tama!! Priest brings down the straps, the fans are thunderous, and Priest grabs Solo by the neck! SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, Priest & Braun win!
Winners: Damian Priest & Braun Strowman, by pinfall
Just as Solo thought it’d be like before, he and Jacob were not on the same page! Priest is rolling towards Elimination Chamber, will this be just what he needs to go back to WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
A great SmackDown here, but with some interesting moves after the sudden change in plans with The Rock showing up. Naomi and Bianca had a good promo to hype up what was meant to be a full match of Naomi VS Liv, but word had already come out before the show that things were being cut for time. But at the very least, they did the right thing of making it a brawl that adds heat to the tag title match on Monday. Also, hilarious how Chelsea & Piper thought the beatdown on Bianca & Naomi was so bad that they would need to be pulled from the Chamber. I also can’t wait to see what happens on Toronto SmackDown.
As for The Rock, I do appreciate he used his authority to kayfabe change more things, all so he could have his promo with Cody. I also appreciate Rock blending his different roles and even different sides, both Heel and Face, to A) bring the news of WM42 being in NOLA, and B) recreate the Corporate Champion/People’s Champion story from the Attitude Era. That was some wild stuff he was saying to Cody. I’m sure quite a few people will try and talk with Cody next week in the go-home. Heels will say do it because they’d love to have what Rock can give, Faces will say not because Cody’s better than that. But naturally, Cody is not going to become The Rock’s Champion, causing Rock to turn on him and really up things going into WrestleMania 41 and perhaps even beyond.
Good stuff in the Elimination Chamber related stories. Jimmy VS McIntyre was great stuff to open, and how fitting that McIntyre loses to Jimmy after talking all that trash about Jimmy and Jey being the same. Jey got McIntyre with something quick, Jimmy got McIntyre with something quick, McIntyre’s ego is obviously his weakness. And at the same time, McIntyre of course destroys Jimmy after because that’s his other personality trait. Priest had good promos with Cody and Braun, and we got great stuff from Solo’s Bloodline. Naturally, we got a miscommunication spot to help finish, we’re really close to Solo VS Jacob, I can feel it. Priest & Braun get the win, mostly because Priest isn’t winning in the Chamber when you’ve got Punk and Cena in there.
Very good stuff with Tiffy Time, from the promos leading into the match to Charlotte being ringside just to watch. Nia & Candice of course get the better of Tiff & Trish, because Tiff & Trish are definitely winning the tag match in Toronto. Charlotte just seems to enjoy trolling Tiff with her presence, so Charlotte probably shows up in Toronto to then confront Tiff after the match. I expect the seven weeks after Elimination Chamber to really heat up, as will Charlotte’s involvement, where she’ll get more active verbally and physically. Also, hell, Rock should go full Corporation and have Charlotte be his Corporate Women’s Champion because of how established she is.
Hilarious stuff from Truth tonight, as always. Truth and Melo having their “who’s on first” again was good stuff, and of course Miz gets in on this story, too. Truth & Knight VS “Melo Don’t Miz” was really fun, but yeah, should’ve figured Nakamura would get involved, too. Melo & Miz making it work could also be really fun, and while Knight VS Nakamura is a rehash, I really hope they find a way to up things. It feels like we’re getting the same with the tag titles as Profits “ruined” that great tag match from DIY and Pretty Deadly, then brawled with MCMG to still come out on top. Last year had a ladder tag title match, so why not do one for these titles this year?
Speaking of escalating, Kevin filming a promo outside Sami’s house was some really well done stuff, as expected of someone as good as Kevin and in such a story as him and Sami. Their match should main event, it needs time to breathe, as it could be just as, if not more violent, than the Chamber matches. What a powerful closing moment we could have if it’s a bloody Kevin and Sami, and one of them is standing over the other, triumphant yet mournful because it was their best friend in the world that they just brutalized.
My Score: 8.9/10
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA LIVE! iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 2.20.2025
So the first live episode got fairly positive praise from everyone; will this continue the trend?
Filming at Full Sail seems to have set the stage nicely this week! Going into a Live episode we got Moose and The Hardy Boyz on NXT, as well as Jordynne Grace’s involvement with Steph and Giulia giving a little shine to TNA happenings since she’s newly WWE.
This episode should be interesting, we finally see Lei Ying Lee (fka Xia Li) back in action, Rascalz take on Tyson and Tyriek, Tessa should be seeing some action as well…so generally interesting happenings for the second Live iMPACT! of 2025. Let’s see how this one goes down!
No matter where @ManceWarner and @stephdelander go, @TheSamiCallihan WILL FIND THEM!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/mXz9U7m9PL
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Ratings:
- Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin: Rascalz win via Meteora/Swanton Combo – ***
- Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary: Lei wins via Thunderstruck – **
- NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC: Dango wins via The System help – ** 3/4
- Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore: Masha wins via Requiem – N/A
- Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons: Elijah wins via Tombstone Piledriver – *** 1/4
Results:
Oh yeah, and another Hendry concert is…cut off by a commercial, LOLTNA. First Hendry is cut off by AXSTV’s new Anime Hour bumper, and now Primo and Epico are showing up in TNA. I definitely didn’t have this on my BINGO card. The crowd starts chanting “Where’s Carlito”, which they do acknowledge and play off of well. Oh they’re using their shoot names of Orlando and Eddie now…but before they attack the lights go out and we get another guitar strum! ELIAH/ELIAS/EZEKIEL/EBENERZER/EMERY/EL VAGABUNDO – shows up to back up Hendry. Okay I can apologize away the redundant concert since it played into an Elijah debut. The crowd is immediately popping and chanting “This is Awesome” 10 minutes into the show.
Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin
Treehouse bros take it to the bigger men quickly, a few fast dives, a little MCMG style tandem strikes, Tyson fires and tries to take them out but they Low Bridge him. Tyriek comes in and they try similar things but Tyriek manhandles them both and throws them out of the ring, Trey is the first one back up and Tyriek and Tyson take his damn head off with his Corkscrew Running Euro Upper. Trey finally manages to flip out of the manhandle, tags in Wentz and Wentz goes for the hot and spicy cleaning house spot. Corner to Corner Knee Lifts for both big men, a Rolling Snapmare, into a Superkick for Tyson and Standing Shoot Star on Tyriek but only for two because Wes feints like he’s going to interfere.
Tyson and Tyriek pull off a tandem Assisted Backdrop Driver, but Wentz breaks it up, Tyson gets knocked out, Wentz hits the Tornillo, Wes tries to interfere again after Trey gets perched on the corner buckle but Ace runs around and trips Wes at the last second causing him to faceplant on the apron, Trey hits the Meteora, Wentz hits a Swanton from the other side of the ring and Trey gets the pinfall victory.
It was fast paced, all gas no brakes, but it didn’t overstay its welcome, so it was pretty fun all things considered.
After the match Wes grabs a mic, complains a little but challenges them to a 6 man match as Sacrifice. So we’re THAT’S where we’re getting the expected 3v3.
Fir$t Cla$$ comes out with an entourage of hot chicks and probably influencers or something. The “First Class Penthouse” , Gabby AF, Mafiosa Valentina, and Carolina are apparently known in their own way. Gabby I know was the awful one who did something for Impact a last year and sucked, but she’s part of the Busted Open Network I believe so that’s why she’s around. Two of them look like Noelle Foley and Frank the Clown…oh they actually are. Look at that. I do love KC Navarro as the Hype Man, they have this whole set up of AJ being mad that they haven’t gotten more Tag Title shots, so TNA placated him with his own Piper’s Pit and he’s *pregnant pause* totally happy with that. He says he loved Piper and hated Hogan before it was cool.
This is actually quality content and AJ is cutting a nice promo in this segment. They introduce their first guest, the greatest performer in TNA history, many whole say he’s Phenomenal with a whole lot of style….it’s A-J-Francis.
.@AJFrancis410 is GOING OFF!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/kGehtp9iTE
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary
Things were slow until Rosemary took her into a corner quickly, hit the Upside Down, and we get a lot of Lei trying to avoid Rosemary’s offense. Rosemary goes for a Spear in the corner and Lei forward rolls, starts connecting with a bunch of right hands, backs Rosemary into the corner, goes for 10 Count Punches, pulls her out, Airplane Spin TKO for only a two count. Rosemary tries As Above So Below, Lei shrugs it off, Rosemary tries to go after Lei anyway and eats Thunderstruck! Lei Ying Lee wins!
After the match Rosemary catches Lei on the ramp and hits the Green mist in the eyes. Match was far too short and so many of Lei’s set up moves look better than her finish. We’ve seen Kofi Kingston do it for years so it’s not bad, just the current Knockouts Division are awful and don’t take the move well.
Eric Young and the jabronis come out, EY cuts a very basic power crazed psycho kind of promo, gets the “What” chants from the crowds. EY is trying to recruit Maclin even though Maclin made his line in the sand last week. EY tries to spin it as maybe he took out Josh FOR Maclin instead of in spite of his trust. This really doesn’t seem interesting at all, but that’s probably because I hate the two Jabronis EY is with.
NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC
I really don’t have any interest in Slater. He’s got no personality beyond “flippy guy with a British accent”.
Dango immediately powders, grabs a chair and goes to swing on him but misses. So Leon is making JDC look dumb by dodging the post chop, using the chair to shield himself from a punch by JDC, and then clapping Dango’s fingers between the chair. So typical System match, look inept for the first few minutes, then take advantage of something to take over. Oh look, Leon takes too long setting up the table, Dango gets in a few pot shots, tries to whip him into the table but Leon leaps over it, and then leaps back over to clobber Dango. Dango is still trying to recover so Leon hits his over the corner post con hilo, and the crowd appreciates it but I’m not interested. Leon panders to the crowd after the big spot and then eats an X-Plex into the chair from Dango.
JDC throws Leon back in, goes for a pinfall that’s only a two and we cut to a commercial. Coming out of the commercial JDC is in control with a Kendo Stick until he isn’t, Leon counters and takes the keno stick, brutalizes Dango a few times then comes off the ropes with the kendo shot for 2. Leon goes for another table, and again, at least the crowd is receptive to this match. Leon sets it up, looks for something off the apron but Dango stops him first until he eats a dropkick to fall onto the table, Leon hits the Swanton 450 through the table on the outside. Does it look cool? Sure. Do I care about dumbass moves? Nope.
Oh thankfully the rest of The System comes out to stop the pinfall, Shield Bomb Leon through the first table, and roll him back in for Dango to win.
The Hardy Boyz come out to try and make the save, but the numbers are against them, so Oba Femi’s music hits! Oba cleans house but doesn’t get his hands on Moose, so they’re at least building the eventual clash between Moose and Oba.
The crowd starts a “Tessa, we comin for you” chant before she even starts talking. Tessa is actually playing off the crowd well, Santino’s music hits and Tessa thinks he’ll help her out with the crowd and Santino calls bullshit basically. Santino says if Tessa doesn’t wrestle next week, she’s fired and Masha’s music hits. Masha decides to step in for Tessa’s enhancement talent match.
Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore
Jobber tries to attack Masha early but Masha stops her, rocks her and Requiem ends the match.
Masha stares down Tessa, and then Cora Jade attacks from behind and hits Jaded.
Ryan Nemeth comes out to his Abyss music remix. What will Mokuba say today? “MYYYY BIIIGG BBRROOOOTTHHHEEEEER” he repeats at least 4 times and it’s hilariously cringe. He announces that Nic will return at Sacrifice, he literally just came out to give a PSA.
Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons
Hendry starts with Eddie, after a brief tie up it seems like Hendry reads the room and points at Elijah and the crowd wants him in. So Joe tags in Elijah, a little back and forth, Shoulder Tackle from Elijah, Rope Walk with Elijah lays out Eddie and a tag to Joe allows for a quick tandem knockdown, but Eddie powders as the Walking and Talking Duo hold the ring going into the final commercial break.
We come back and Hendry is bouncing Orlando off the ropes as he return a strike, but Orlando is obviously losing, eats a Euro Upper, and then gets walked around in the Stalling Suplex for posterity. Eddie tries a sneak attack but gets caught and Sack of Shit, into Kip Up, turn and then Orlando with the ambush! A few quick short cuts and an Irish Whip/Dropkick combo gives the Colons a near fall. Hendry does get locomotion variation cradles, but eats a Dropkick to stop the attempt at momentum. Orlando stays on Joe, but Joe finally starts to fire up as the crowd starts to get behind him. Euro Uppers make some space, but a Snapmare says no.
Eddie gets tagged in and a quick Leg Sweep into a Front Chancery keeps Eddie in control. As Joe tries to get back up, Eddie turns it into a Guillotine, but finally the Suplex counter connects for Hendry! Simultaneous tags! Elijah bulls over Orlando, catches a Leap Frogging Orlando with the Manhattan Drop as Orlando retreats to a corner, Stinger Splash into Spinebuster for two. Elijah tries to keep up the attacks but Orlando finds a few ways to make space, launches himself from the middle rope and eats the Jumping Knee! Eddie breaks up the pinfall, Hendry takes Eddie out and Elijah hits the Tombstone Piledriver for the win!
Overall Score: 6/10
Well there were more live hiccups than the first episode, and this felt both more epic and less epic at the same time. Elijah and the Colons debuting was a nice way to kick things off, Oba Femi showing up for the save was fantastic. There were a few decent matches, but also a lot of really short and rushed matches. Tessa played off the crowd well, but Masha really is useless on the mic. Lei Ying Lee needs to framed stronger, her matches have done nothing to show off her ability. It just proves that the Knockouts don’t know how to sell a kick to the head because they all take it in the shoulder and fall in corny ways.
Viva La Sam could be something fun if the next 3 weeks are just hand cam footage of him being like “I’m Sami Callihan and I’m gonna kick Mance Warner’s ass”, Elegance Clique getting the rematch with a stipulation is nice to see and while I like Fir$t Cla$$, that segment went a little long for a cornball swerve payoff. It’s one thing to placate the Influencer squad especially when we’ve seen Logan Paul and Ishowspeed do so well in WWE…but these are like Z Tier Influencers that no one cares about. These kind of dorks stream on Kick because they aren’t relevant enough for Twitch, not because they chose Kick over it.
So yeah, the low lights were pretty low, and the highs were a little fleeting, but at least they were pretty fun. Not a bad show, just clunky with noticeable issues and Masha shouldn’t be allowed to speak English anymore. She’s such a charisma vacuum when she’s not rambling in Russian.
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