Results
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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Let’s see who’s up to par!
Live from West Palm Beach, Florida, Darby Allin defends the AEW World Championship against PAC on a Fairway to Hell!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- AEW National Championship: “Jungle” Jack Perry VS Mark Davis w/ Don Callis; Davis wins and becomes the new AEW National Champion.
- AEW Women’s Tag Team Championship Eliminator: The Divine Dominion VS Ruthie Slay & Rachel Ley; The Divine Dominion wins and denies Slay & Ley a title match.
- “Speedball” Mike Bailey w/ Kevin Knight VS Kiran Grey; Bailey wins.
- AEW World Championship No Count Outs Match: Darby Allin VS PAC; Darby wins and retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
AEW National Championship: “Jungle” Jack Perry VS Mark Davis w/ Don Callis!
The Jurassic Express National Tour arrives in SoFi Center Arena, the same place the TGL takes place! But will Tarzan Life win this rematch from Dynasty? Or can Dunkzilla make good on this mulligan?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if the Don Callis Family adds more gold to the collection!
The bell rings, the fans cheer, and Callis joins commentary to humble brag that he already played 42 holds with Ricochet, Tony Khan and Richard Goodell. Jack gets the fans to cheer for him, and to boo Davis. The two circle, Davis runs up but Jack dodges! Jack fires off forearms, Davis TOSSES Jack to a corner, and the fans already tell Callis off. Jack dodges Davis to CHOP, CHOP, and CHOP, but Davis turns things back around! Davis THROWS Jack away, but Jack comes back to SHOTGUN Davis! Jack then climbs up and rains down fists! Davis stops Jack at 5 as he lifts him off the corner! But Jack fights with more fists, and he RANAS Davis away!
Jack runs up, Davis pops him up to the apron, but Jack ENZIGIRIS! Jack goes up, up, but Davis slips under the jump! Davis runs up, but Jack dodges! Davis tumbles up and out of the ring, Jack goes up top, ARIHARA MOONSAULT! Direct hit and the fans fire up! Jack waves hi tot he camera, then he puts Davis back in the ring. Davis shoves Jack away, Jack dodges, and he SHOTGUNS Davis down! Davis flounders but Jack runs up again, and he uses the corner to swing, only for Davis to block! Davis LAWN DARTS Jack into the rope! Then LARIATS him down! The fans boo but Davis refreshes the ring count.
Davis storms over to Jack while the fans rally up. Davis drags Jack up, brings him around, and CHOPS! The fans “WOO~” as that one echoes out. Davis snarls as he stares into the camera, then he drags Jack up. Davis puts Jack in the ring, rolls in after him, and stalks Jack to ropes. The fans rally for Jack but Davis bends Jack back against the ropes! The ref counts, Davis stops at 4, but Jack CHOPS! And CHOPS! Davis eggs Jack on, so Jack CHOPS! Davis CHOPS Jack down! Davis soaks up the heat, then he goes back to Jack. Davis bumps Jack off buckles, then brings him around to TOSS across the way! Davis takes his time following Jack and kicks him around.
The fans rally for Jack but Davis is on him again. Davis whips Jack to ropes, but Jack slides under! JAWBREAKER! Davis wobbles, Jack goes to ropes, but Davis runs up. Jack BOOTS Davis, slips outside and ROCKS Davis again, then slingshots, but into a FOREARM! Davis then runs to BLAST Jack off the apron! The fans boo Davis but he soaks it up while Collision goes to break.
The ref checks Jack but Davis goes out to fetch him. Davis grabs a towel to CHOKE Jack with it! The ref reprimands, Davis stops, but then he sits Jack up on the railing. Davis CHOPS Jack into the crowd! Davis leaves Jack behind while the ring count climbs. Jack drags himself up while the fans cheer him on, and Jack gets help getting up and over the barriers. Jack stumbles back to the ring, safe at 8! Davis storms up and tells the fans this is on them. But Jack dodges the chop, to SMACK Davis! And ROCK him again, and again, and again! Davis just scoops Jack to SLAM him down! And SENTON! Davis roars while Jack sputters on the mat!
Davis paces around Jack, pushes him down for a cocky cover, ONE!! But Davis bends Jack back with the chinlock stretch! Jack endures, reaches out, then BITES Davis’ hand! The ref reprimands but Jack lets go, and Davis snarls again. Jack CHOSP Davis, CHOPS again, and CHOPS again! Jack winds up, but Davis blocks! Davis then CLAWS Jack’s face as he pushes him into the corner. The ref reprimands, but Davis storms back up on Jack to suplex, BROKEN ARROW! Jack tumbles while Davis soaks up heat. Davis stands on Jack for a cocky cover, TWO! Davis kicks at Jack, almost toying with him now.
Jack sits up to fire body shots! Fairway to Hell returns to single picture as Davis CLUBS Jack. Jack UPPERCUTS Davis! Davis KNEES Jack low! Davis whips, but Jack hits the COMEBACKER! It just bounces off Davis’ barrel chest! Davis hauls Jack up, but Jack slips free to fire forearms! Davis shoves Jack, Jack ducks ‘n’ dodges, FLYING FOREARM! Davis wobbles, then drops to a knee! The fans fire up with Jack as he roars! Jack runs corner to corner, but into an ELBOW! Davis hoists Jack up top, then climbs up to join Jack. Jack fires body shots, then he BITES Davis’ hand! Jack fires haymakers on Davis’ head, then SMACKS him off buckles!
Jack positions himself just right, and leaps to SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO! Davis survives and Jack is beside himself! Davis and Jack go to the apron, and Davis LARIATS Jack against the ropes! Then he suplexes, but Jack fights with knees! Jack lands safe, then BOOTS Davis! Davis roars, but Jack SUPERKICKS! Jack goes up, leaps again, FLYING RANA to the floor! The fans fire up for Jack and “A E DUB! A E DUB!” Jack hurries to swing, TIGER FEINT KICK from the post! Jack goes up the corner while Davis stumbles into the ring, BLINDSIDE MACHO ELBOW! Cover, TWO!! Davis survives and Jack is rather surprised.
Jack goes to a corner, and says time to make a sacrifice! Jack runs in, but Davis LARIATS Jack first! Davis THROWS Jack to a corner, runs side to side, SLIDING FOREARM! Davis pushes Jack to a cover, TWO!! Jack survives and the fans fire up again! Davis rains down fists, then rises up. The fans boo Davis but he drags Jack up. Davis puts Jack on the ropes, runs, and- JACK RANAS! Cover, TWO! SUPERKICK! SUPERKICK! And then SUPERK- NO, Davis blocks the third to shove and DISCUS LARIAT! Then SNAP PILEDRIVER! Cover, TWO?!? Jack survives again and the fans fire back up! Callis coaches Davis as he drags Jack up.
Davis brings Jack up in the corner with a gut wrench! The fans freak out for the SUPER- STEINER!! Jack turns things around on Davis just in time! The fans are thunderous but Callis rushes to ringside! The fans all boo Callis, but wait! RICOCHET slides into the ring! Still dressed in his golf course attire, he CRACKS Jack with his nine iron!! Ricochet hides, Davis deadlifts Jack, COUNT TO PAIN!! Cover, DAVIS WINS!
Winner: Mark Davis, by pinfall (NEW AEW National Champion)
Talk about a handicap! Callis AND Ricochet gave Davis quite a considerable one, and now Davis has his first singles title in AEW! The Jurassic Express National Tour has just been run off the road, but will Jack be able to get his revenge?
Collision returns, and Jack Perry is on the phone.
He tells someone, “Let’s do it. Thank you, guys.” Jack ends his call, then shows his frustration. Winning the National Championship in his hometown, in front of his friends and family, was one of the proudest moments of his entire life. And yet Ricochet and Callis had to end that for him. But he happens to know that Chris Jericho & The Hurt Syndicate are looking for two more partners for Stadium Stampede. And Jack go to thinking, the show is called Double or Nothing. So how about instead of two, Jack brings FOUR! The ELITE! Jack, The Bucks, and KENNY OMEGA! See you there. Ricochet may have just messed himself over, will he regret ever getting involved tonight?
Backstage interview with Don Callis, Mark Davis and Ricochet.
Renee Paquette is with the Jackal, Dunkzilla and the Bald Eagle as she says she was going to congratulate Davis on the title win, but after Jack putting out that news, what is their reaction? Callis says he’s thrilled! Jack just gifted him his ultimate fantasy! A chance to beat up Jericho, The Bucks AND Kenny, all on one night? Callis would’ve paid good money for that, and Jack, you dumbass, just gave it away from free! Ricochet says The Don Callis Family must be joining The Demand for Stadium Stampede. Well, given the way Ricochet just used that golf club, the National Champion will gladly stand beside him!
Ricochet says playing golf with Tony Khan has really improved his swing, so see you all there. Callis says yes, let’s go have a drink at the 19th Hole and talk about which of the many members of the Don Callis Family are going to join Ricochet in the slaughterhouse! Ricochet says oh yes, so many great choices to choose from! Callis & Ricochet head out, just how massive will this Stadium Stampede match get?
AEW Women’s World Championship Eliminator: The Divine Dominion VS Ruthie Slay & Rachel Ley!
Megan Bayne & Lena Kross are so dominant, they don’t even think this match is going to last five minutes! But while there’s a time limit, will there be no limit to how devastating the Megasus & Aussie Amazon can be? Or will Slay & Ley manage to survive the day?
The teams sort out, Lena starts against Slay, and the clock is ticking! Slay DROPKICKS, but Lena doesn’t budge! Ley ENZIGIRIS, but Lena still doesn’t flinch! Ley & Slay double kick, but Lena blocks the double whip! Lena whips them, ELBOWS Slay and SPIN-OUT SIDEWALK SLAMS Ley! Then she scoops Slay to SLAM her onto Ley! Lena drags Ley up, whips her to the corner, then runs up to LARIAT! And ELBOW! Tag to Megan and the Divine Dominion run side to side! BOOT from Lena, BOOT from Megan! Then GERMAN SUPLEX! Ley tumbles, the fans cheer, and Megan tags Lena back in. Lena storms up on Ley to GERMAN SUPLEX again!
The fans cheer as Lena tags Megan back in. We’ve hit 90 seconds, but it feels like forever for Ley as Megan GERMAN SUPLEXES again! Megan kips up, then she stalks Ley. Megan eggs Ley on, slaps her around, then drags her up. Megan fireman’s carries, but Slay manages to tag in! Slay runs up, but Megan scoops her! FALL AWAY SLAM SAMOAN DROP COMBO! They’ve made it two minutes but that might be all! Tag to Lena, she and Megan get Slay up, DIVINE INTERVENTION! Cover, Divine Dominion wins!
Winners: The Divine Dominion, by pinfall (denies Slay & Ley a title opportunity)
Two minutes and 15 seconds is all Slay & Ley got, will any team last even that long? Or will the Divine Dominion continue to dominate AEW until the end of time?
BREAKING NEWS for Double or Nothing!
The Triangle of Madness may have misted Persephone and injured Alex Windsor, but that only heaps on more trouble for the champion! Thekla must now defend her AEW Women’s World Championship in a FATAL 4 WAY! Thekla VS Jamie Hayter VS Kris Statlander VS Hikaru Shida, is The Toxic Spider about to get squashed? Or will she need her Sisters of Sin now more than ever?
BREAKING NEWS for Dynamite!
The annual tradition is back! The 2026 Owen Hart Memorial Tournament begins, with the brackets for both men’s and women’s divisions to be announced on Wednesday! Who makes the cut? And who will become the King & Queen of Harts?
Don Callis speaks, again.
“Just moments away from the AEW World title match between Darby Allin and Pac, and gentlemen, just wanted to let you know that the Don Callis Family, no matter who wins tonight, the Don Callis Family will be waiting for the winner. This Wednesday on Dynamite, the Don Callis Family will take the AEW World title from one of you. And y’know, it’s already been a great night, a big night, for the Don Callis Family! We won gold, but can’t wait to get some more. And on the subject of that, Okada has had to go to Japan to take care of some very important family business. But don’t worry, lads, because I have someone in mind to take his spot this Wednesday in the world title match.
“And it is none other than the firstborn of the Don Callis Family, Konosuke Takeshita, The Alpha!” Takeshita steps in, and Callis tells him, “You’re gonna be the world champion! If you listen to me like you always have, you will be successful, and you will finally fulfill the destiny that I had for you when I plucked you out of obscurity and made you the replacement for Kenny Omega. You’re the best wrestler in the world when you’ve got my game plan in your head. Go win the title.” Konosuke tells Don that he was going to take the International Championship, but now he is the person who will bring the world title back to the Don Callis Family! Unlike Okada.
Takeshita heads out, will he still make himself a double champion when he adds #PrettyPlatinum to the NJPW World Television Championship?
“Speedball” Mike Bailey w/ Kevin Knight VS Kiran Grey!
This match was on standby in case the Divine Dominion didn’t need all five minutes of their time, and now it’s a chance for Speedball to shine! But will he keep his momentum going from last Wednesday’s super show? Or will he get lost in the Grey Area?
Grey is already starting trouble as he pushes Bailey. The ref backs him off, then the bell rings. Grey runs up, but into a BOOT! Bailey then PENALTY KICKS, STANDING KNEE-SAULT, then Bailey waits on Grey. Grey ducks the buzzsaw and bails out! The fans boo but Bailey TRIANGLE JUMP MOONSAULTS! Down goes Grey and the fans fire up! Bailey daps it up with The Jet, then he climbs up the corner. But Grey goes after him! They brawl up top, Grey fires a flurry, but Bailey fires back! Bailey SHOVES Grey down, takes aim, but Grey hits the ropes! Bailey is tripped up onto his speedballs, but Grey dribbles him off the buckles!
Grey CLUBS Bailey into a Tree of Woe, then soaks up the heat before he stomps Bailey! Grey tells Bailey to stay down but Bailey grabs that leg! Bailey uses that to drag himself back up, and he ROCKS Grey again! Bailey dribbles Grey off buckles, then HEADBUTTS him! Grey falls, Bailey takes aim, ULTIMATE WEAPON! Cover, Bailey wins!
Winner: “Speedball” Mike Bailey, by pinfall
A fast win for Speedball, and Knight gets the mic. he says he likes that! Speedball is red hot right now. And though The Jet didn’t get two belts on Wednesday, he’s still the Face of TNT. Now, the future of AEW is wide open, so why not they make it to the top together? They shake hands on it, will JetSpeed shift gears to become a Two Man Power Trip? What belt(s) will they aim for next?
AEW World Championship No Count Outs Match: Darby Allin VS PAC!
Anticipating how wild this one can get given the nature of their grudge, AEW decided to remove some of the obstacles standing in their way. They can’t do anything they want, but they can definitely go anywhere they want here in the SoFi Center! But will Darby even up the career series between them? Or will it be 3-1 in favor of The Bastard?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who takes this belt to Dynamite!
The bell rings and the fans rally behind Darby. Darby hops outside already, and he goes around the crowd to be on the golfing green! This is No Count Outs, so he wants to take full advantage of it already! He dares Pac to join him, so Pac heads over to the green! They fire hands on the rough and the fans fire up! Darby ducks, fires hands then HEADBUTTS Pac down! Darby brings Pac up but Pac BACKDROPS Darby! Pac then brings Darby closer to the bunker! Pac suplexes, Darby fights free, and he fires hands! Darby runs up, CODE RED into the sand trap! The fans go nuts seeing what is surely the first one of those ever!
Pac gets himself out of the sand and ends up on the fairway. Darby pursues, runs up, and ROCKS Pac1 they’re near another sand trap, and Darby SHOTGUNS Pac into the sand! The fans cheer “A E DUB! A E DUB!” for making this madness a reality! Darby goes after Pac, but Pac throws sand in Darby’s eyes! Pac then hauls Darby up to BELLY2BELLY SUPLEX Darby into the sand trap! Darby sputters, but Pac clamps on the BRUTALIZER! The ref reprimands, this isn’t Falls Count Anywhere! But fans know “This is Awesome!” as Pac makes Darby suffer! Darby sputters again as Pac lets him go, then shakes out the sand in his boots.
Pac drags Darby up with a headlock, but then decides to fireman’s carry! And gorilla press to THROW Darby back into the bunker! The fans boo but Pac soaks up that heat. Darby sputters and coughs while Collision goes picture in picture.
Darby sputters as he sits up, but Pac brings him back around. Pac brings Darby around, dumps him down, and soaks up more heat. Pac then brings Darby along the fairway, CLUBS him on the neck, and stalks him as they return to the crowd. They then return to ringside, then the ring itself, and Pac covers, TWO! Darby toughs it out, but Pac stalks him to the corner. Pac uncovers a crossbar before he stands Darby up. Fairway to Hell returns to single picture as Pac tiles the tag rope to Darby’s chain necklace! Darby can’t get free before Pac BOOTS him! The ref reprimands, but Darby SPITS at Pac! Pac takes that defiance and BOOTS Darby again!
Pac then has Darby’s legs, and YANKS him from the corner! The tag rope breaks and Darby flounders around. Pac whips to then BACKDROP Darby 450 degrees! Pac then builds up speed, but Darby avoids the lariat! The fans fire up as Darby slingshots back in and dragon sleepers for the SCORPION DEATH DROP! Cover, TWO! Pac and Darby are both down while the fans rally up again. Darby crawls to a corner, climbs up top, and he watches Pac rise. Pac turns around, but he manages to trip Darby up first! Pac then climbs up after Darby, hauls him up, and SUPER DUPER FALCON ARROWS! Cover, TWO!! Darby survives and the fans fire up again!
Pac frowns while Darby flounders out of the ring. The fans rally for Darby while Pac takes his time going to the outside. Pac looks under the ring, and he brings out a table! The fans cheer but the ref reprimands, this isn’t No Disqualifications! Pac still sets the table up nearby, making sure it lines up with the corner. Pac puts Darby on the table, then climbs up said corner. The fans freak out, anticipating what Pac is planning, and he steadies himself as he takes aim. Pac SUPER SHOOTING STARS but only gets table!! Darby avoids disaster, and Pac is somehow still in this after his crash landing! Darby puts Pac in, trips him, and steps through!
The fans fire up as Darby steps over, SCORPION DEATHLOCK!! Pac endures, reaches out, but Darby sits deep! Pac fights, claws, reaches out, and powers his way forward! ROPEBREAK! Darby lets Pac go, and Pac waves to the back. Well, of course The Death Riders are here! Darby spots Wheeler Yuta, Daniel Garcia & Marina Shafir storming down the aisle, but then Pac CLOBBERS him! A distraction tactic is good enough as Pac now turns the proverbial tables. Then he signals for them to get something, and they bring out another table! The fans chant, “On The Green!” but Pac doesn’t care about that. He scoops Darby to go up the steel steps!
The fans boo as Pac tucks Darby in, TOMBSTONE on the steel steps! The fans go nuts as Darby flops to the floor! Wait, wait, wait, now The Death Riders have STACKED tables?! Pac smirks as he brings Darby back up, and he fireman’s carries Darby to bring him over. Darby goes to the backstage area while Collision goes picture in picture.
Pac carries Darby all the way around to the backstage area, because this is the only place to get upstairs! Pac SMACKS Darby off a wall on the way to the stairs, and the ref reprimands while Pac scares off curious fans. Pac drags Darby up the stairs with a headlock, and they go to the upper deck! Pac brings Darby past the nice bar and lounge area, the ref and Death Riders making sure fans don’t get too close. Pac SMACKS Darby off another wall, then drags Darby through this VIP seating area to go to the balcony. Pac stomps Darby to keep him down, then drags him to the balcony railing! And lo and behold, those stacked tables are right there!
The ref reprimands and the fans are freaking out already, but Pac is looking to toss Darby! Darby clings to the railing but Pac CLUBS him. Pac then drags Darby up, but Darby fires body shots! Fairway to Hell returns to single picture as Darby fights desperately! Darby CLAWS Pac’s back, but Marina shouts at Darby! The ref keeps her back, but that lets Pac LOW BLOW Darby! The Problem continues to be just that, but also the insurance policy for the Death Riders! Pac stands Darby up, and THROWS him off!! Darby crashes down through the tables!!! The fans lose their minds all over again while Pac hurries to go back downstairs!
AEW medical staff is already checking Darby as he’s down in the wreckage, but Pac says screw that! He fireman’s carries Darby and puts him back in the ring! Pac covers, TWO!!! Darby survives and the fans are thunderous! Pac and The Death Riders are in shock! Pac falls back to a corner as he shakes his head. Pac argues with the ref, but 2.99 still isn’t 3! The fans rally for Darby, but Pac storms over to him. Pac looms over Darby, Yuta slides a chair into the ring, but the ref snatches it away! Only for Marina to slide the title belt in! Pac takes aim while Darby rises, but then Darby springs to life! Pac has seen a ghost, or maybe a zombie!
Pac winds up, but Darby LOW BLOWS! And BELT SHOTS!! Darby gets Pac in place, goes up top, COFFIN DROP!! Cover, DARBY WINS!
Winner: Darby Allin, by pinfall (still AEW World Champion)
Pac said it himself, Darby is the indestructible boy! But can Darby keep this up? Or will The Alpha come through on his promise and bring this title back to the Don Callis Family this Wednesday?
My Thoughts:
A great hour of AEW here as this special edition of Collision, though “Fairway to Hell” is such a random thing to begin with. They must’ve made a business deal with SoFi and TGL, which to me might be more AEW helping TGL get noticed on a national scale. And changing the status quo with the National Championship was quite the surprise, but that’s still great for Davis. Ricochet being the reason why, and then that compelling The Elite jumping into Stadium Stampede is a bit convoluted. I get they’re using continuity of how Kenny hates Callis and vice-versa, but it undercuts what I was hoping for in Hurt Syndicate getting to introduce new members. But hey, 7v7 is pretty wild, too.
I appreciate Divine Dominion adding something to their squash matches with that five minute goal. Slay & Ley already set a good time with over two minutes, and I’m sure two minutes will be the average as they just dominate all summer. And it seems Alex Windsor is gonna be out a little longer than expected, given that adjustment for Double or Nothing. A Fatal 4 Way is still good for how Thekla can use her challengers against each other, or be protected in a loss if they choose. It also helps bring in the Shidalander story, but it also feels like we’re skipping chapters. That Fatal 4 Way can probably get us to the team breaking up and Shida turning on Statlander for their own feud.
Bailey VS Grey probably was a legit standby match, that went quick. And Knight had a decent promo saying he and Bailey are still gonna be JetSpeed going for all the gold. Not sure if that comes true or just sets things up for the team to fall apart. And then a really wild main event with the “No Count Out” match. They probably could’ve just called that No Holds Barred but they wanted to add heat on how The Death Riders were cheating the second half of that match. Both table spots were risky, but obviously Darby did the crazier one. AEW really needs to be careful not to push it much further than that, though.
Then the news of Okada being out for Dynamite, hopefully it’s nothing too tragic with his family. But Takeshita as the substitute is a good choice, this helps build the Okada VS Takeshita match at the same time as building Darby up. Pretty sure MJF accepts the terms of Title VS Hair, and it’d be very MJF if he were to announce that while attacking Darby to close the show on Wednesday.
My Score: 8.8/10
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Backlash is all gas, no brakes with it!
Jacob Fatu doesn’t just want the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, he NEEDS it! But will he get it? Or must he ACKNOWLEDGE Roman Reigns?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Seth Rollins VS Bron Breakker w/ Paul Heyman; Bron wins.
- WWE United States Championship: Trick Williams w/ Lil Yachty VS Sami Zayn; Trick wins and retains the title.
- The Miz & Kit Wilson VS Danhausen & Minihausen; Danhausen & Minihausen win.
- Asuka VS Iyo Sky; Iyo wins.
- WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Roman Reigns VS Jacob Fatu; Roman wins and retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
It’s the Backlash Countdown Show!
Join Michael Cole, Corey Graves, Big E, and Peter Rosenberg in discussing, analyzing, and predicting all the action that’s about to go down in Tampa!
Retired Air Force Technical Sergeant Sonya Bryson-Kirksey sings the Star-Spangled Banner.
Tonight, at Backlash…
Just as the song says, Tampa, Florida heats up as WWE starts to cook. An Empress looks to teach The Genius a lesson. An Architect looks to tear down the Badass he shared his Vision with. A ginger snaps back at the lemon pepper steppers that stepped on his moment and took his title. A Very Nice, Very Evil Overlord is bringing someone, or something, to help him outshine the Hollywood A-Lister and his new protege. And a Samoan Werewolf doesn’t just want what the Tribal Chief has, he NEEDS it! But when you cook, you have to be careful not to get burned. Who serves and who eats their fill tonight at Backlash?
Seth Rollins VS Bron Breakker w/ Paul Heyman!
Tampa is ready to #BurnItDown, just as The Visionary, the Revolutionary, Seth Freakin’ Rollins, is ready to burn down the faction he created. But even with his Mortal Kombat inspired ring gear, will Rollins win this match? Or will it be the Unpredictable Badass that scores the fatality?
The bell rings and the fans bark as Bron runs up already! Rollins LEAPS the spear, Bron hits buckles, and then Rollins BOOTS him outside! Rollins hurries to DIVE! Direct hit at the ramp and Rollins fires off shots! Rollins throws Bron into barriers on one side, then the other, before putting him in the ring. Rollins LARIATS Bron up and out, then DIVES again! Bron hits desk then the floor, and the fans fire up as Rollins rains down more fists! The fans sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as Rollins stalks Bron. Rollins stands Bron up but Bron KNEES low! Bron ROCKS Rollins, brings him around, and THRWOS him over barriers!
The fans are torn but Rollins is right back up! Rollins LEAPS over barriers to tackle Bron! Rollins fires more hands, then chases Bron into the ring. Rollins goes up the corner, leaps at Bron, but Bron catches Rollins! Rollins fights but Bron BELLY2BELLY SUPLEXES Rollins up and out! The fans bark again while the ring count climbs. Bron goes out to ROCK Rollins, and fans duel as Bron stalks Rollins around the way. Bron KNEES Rollins again and again, then SMACKS him off the apron. Rollins CHOPS in return! And CHOPS again! But Bron TACKLES Rollins and rains down fists! Bron puts Rollins in the ring, then storms up in the corner.
Bron RAMS into Rollins, RAMS again, and again! The ref counts, Bron backs off, and he looms over Rollins. Bron brings Rollins up, Rollins fights the suplex, but Bron fires body shots. Bron suplexes high and hard, then covers, ONE! Rollins is tougher than that, and he pushes Bron as he goes to ropes. Bron storms up but Rollins throws hands! Bron gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans bark again while Rollins tumbles to a corner. Bron storms over to Rollins again, waistlocks, and GERMAN SUPLEXES again! Perhaps Bron is looking to inherit Suplex City, but then he clamps on a SLEEPER! Rollins fights around but Bron has the body scissors even!
The fans rally a Rollins fights up, then JAWBREAKERS free! The fans cheer while Heyman is worried. Rollins CHOPS Bron, then CHOPS again! The fans “WOO~” as Rollins CHOPS again. Rollins whips, Bron reverses, tilt-o-whirl BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Rollins is still tougher than that, but Bron clamps onto him again. Bron digs a knee into Rollins’ back while he bends Rollins back! The fans rally and duel, and Bron tells Rollins he should’ve just given The Vision a chance. Rollins just chose himself over everything else! Selfish piece of trash! Bron clamps on with a chinlock now and he squeezes tight.
Rollins endures, fights up, and fights around, to then hit a BIG back suplex! The fans cheer while both men are down. Rollins rises, he eggs Bron on, and he counter punches! And counter punches again! And again! Rollins fires hands, then whips, but Bron ducks ‘n’ dodges and builds up speed to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Rollins survives that 23 mile per hour collision, but Bron GERMAN SUPLEXES him again! And again! Rollins flounders, rises up, and staggers into another waistlock! GERMAN SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Then Rollins SLAPS Bron from below! Bron eggs Rollins on, Rollins SLAPS him again, so Bron grinds his forearm into Rollins’ face!
Bron drags Rollins up, shoves him to a corner, and RAMS into him! And RAMS him again! Bron hoists Rollins up top, climbs up to join him, but Rollins CLUBS away at Bron’s leg. Then Rollins BITES Bron’s forehead! Bron staggers back, but he’s right back up! BREAKKER STEINER! Cover, TWO! Rollins survives and Bron is beside himself! The fans duel harder now while Heyman coaches Bron up. Rollins rises up at the ropes, Bron brings him around, and Bron fires knee after knee. Bron TOSSES Rollins out, then takes his time going out the side. The fans bark and boo as Bron locks on target! Bron runs in, but Rollins SUPERKICKS first!!
The fans are fired up as both men are down on the outside! A standing count begins, both men are still down at 5 of 10, “This is Awesome!” We pass 7, both men rise at 8, and they lunge in at 9.5!! Rollins then LARIATS in a corner! The fans fire up as Rollins brings Bron up for short arm LARIAT after short arm LARIAT, but Bron stays on his feet! Rollins fires forearm after forearm and Bron finally kneels! The fans rally as Rollins runs, but Bron swings! Rollins ducks ‘n’ dodges to LARIAT again! Cover, TWO! Rollins hurries to take aim, Bron sits up, Rollins KNEES him down! Cover, TWO! Heyman is stunned as Bron manages to survive!
“This is Awesome!” as Rollins grabs Bron’s hands for wristlocks. Rollins unleashes Dragon Stomps on Bron’s face! Rollins then lines up the shot, blows a kiss to Heyman, CURB- NO, Bron blocks the stomp!! Bron then stands up, snarls, and he guzels Rollins for the gorilla press, GUT BUSTER DROP!! Then Bron goes to a corner, runs up, but into a BOOT! Rollins runs, slips through the lariat, but Bron dumps him down! STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Rollins’ counter didn’t quite work out and it almost cost him! Bron grins, he knows he has this “old dog” where he wants him. Bron puts Rollins in a corner, then climbs up.
Bron says it didn’t have to be like this. Bron rains down fists on Rollins while the fans count. He takes his time getting to five, only for Rollins to lift him from the corner! Rollins runs to BUCKLE BOMB! And then- LARIAT!! Bron turns things back around on Rollins again and the fans are thunderous! Rollins rolls out of the ring, hobbles around the way, but Bron goes out after him. Bron SMACKS Rollins off the desk, then grins as he goes to the apron. Bron lines it up, FLYING LARIAT onto and OVER the desk!! The fans bark while Heyman smiles as Bron just about wipes himself out with Rollins! The ring count is back, Bron drags Rollins up at 4 of 10.
Bron brings Rollins around the way, puts him in the ring at 8, then grins as he goes up the corner. But Rollins springs up to get him! SUPER DUPER PLEX! Then the roll through and- NO, Bron hits the FALCON ARROW first! Cover, TWO!! Rollins survives and Bron is in disbelief! The fans sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as they rally behind Rollins. Bron stands over Rollins, pie faces him, then eggs him on. Bron kicks Rollins to a corner, then RAMS into him! Bron puts Rollins up top, but Rollins fires body shots! Rollins then CLAWS Bron’s back! Bron drops down, but he snarls as he goes right back up! BREAKKER STEINER!
The fans rally as Bron and Rollins rise up. Bron runs up to fire hands, then he puts Rollins up again. Bron again goes up, up, and BREAKKER- NO!! Rollins manages to land out! The fans fire up for Rollins as Bron is shocked! Bron runs up, Rollins slips through to SUPERKICK! And SUPERKICK! And- NO, Bron blocks the kick, then guzels, but Rollins kicks again! Underhooks and PEDIGREE!! Rollins lines it up, CURB STOMP!! Heyman distracts from the apron! The fans boo as the Wise Man is saving his new golden boy. Rollins grins, goes outside, and brings out a chair! Rollins doesn’t even care about winning now, he just wants to do damage!
But wait, here comes The Vision! Rollins knows it, though! He JAMS Austin Theory, he JAMS Logan Paul, then SMACKS away on both! Rollins CURB STOMPS Theory! And he chases Logan off with that chair! Rollins hurries back to the ring, but Bron is locked on! SPEAR!! Cover, TWO?!?! Rollins survives and no one can believe it! Even Heyman can’t explain it! Bron tries to do the math but the fans just sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Bron brings the straps down, builds up speed again, but Rollins catches the spear into a PEDIGREE!!! Rollins hurries to reload, and he even goes up the corner! FLYING CURB- SPEAR!!!
Bron turns things around on Rollins again, and Heyman says finish it! Bron builds speed to SUPER SPEAR!!! Cover, Bron wins!!
Winner: Bron Breakker, by pinfall
Give the assist to the pawns, but Bron still scores the biggest win of his young career! Is this the end of it all for Seth Rollins? Will The Vision soon own the entire WWE Universe?
WWE United States Championship: Trick Williams w/ Lil Yachty VS Sami Zayn!
It is rather paradoxical that Hollywood Trick mocks #BigMatchSami while Sami tries to do the right thing, and yet the fans love one and not the other. For that matter, the entirety of the Gingerbread Man’s existence nearly drove Sami insane. But is this where the ginger truly snaps? Or will he #WhoopDatTrick and get this title back?
Cathy Kelley catches Trick Yachty Gang backstage, and brings up that Sami is feeling great tonight. Their response? Trick says Sami better quit lying! He’s been lying for weeks, saying he’s the veteran. But since Sami’s met Trick, Trick’s the one running hits. Trick’s the vet, this is Trick Willy’s World. All the games are over, and you’re gonna see that now. Let’s talk about it. With that, Trick makes his entrance, with all the fans singing along, “WHOOP DAT TRICK! WHOOP DAT TRICK!” The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who doesn’t just feels great, but IS great!
Tensions are already rising as Sami tries to get at Trick but Trick shoves him back! The ref has them back off, and the bell rings. Trick and Sami tie up, Trick powers Sami to a corner, and the ref counts. Sami turns things around, pie faces Trick, but backs off to then CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! The ref backs Sami off but Trick brushes that off to reset with Sami. They tie up again, Sami headlocks, but Trick powers up and out. Sami ducks ‘n’ dodges but Trick LEAPING LARIATS! Trick has Sami in the corner to CHOP! And CHOP! And CHOP again! The fans “WOO~” while Trick shakes out his hand. Trick then BACKHANDS Sami down!
The fans cheer Trick, then Trick stomps away on Sami, all to the rhythm of “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” Trick stops as the ref counts 4, then Trick whips. Sami grabs ropes, bails out, and the fans boo. Yachty taunts Sami, Sami glares at Yachty, but Trick goes out the side, and he CLOBBERS Sami! Trick high-fives with Yachty, then whips, but Sami reverses! Trick is sent into the steel steps! The fans boo but Sami pulls the steps apart. Yachty stands in Sami’s way, but Sami storms up to Yachty. Yachty backs off while Trick gets in the ring. Sami goes after Trick to rain down fists. The fans boo but Sami just shakes his head.
Trick drags himself to ropes but Sami drags Trick up. Sami CLUBS Trick with a crossface forearm, then brings him up again for a CHOP! Trick wobbles, Sami whips, and Sami LARIATS Trick down! Cover, TWO! Another cover, TWO! A high stack now, TWO! Tampa actually duels, “Let’s Go, Sami!” “Sami Sucks!” The “Sami Sucks!” side is winning by a large margin, though. Sami shakes his head again, then he SLAPS Trick around. The ref reprimands about pulling hair, and Sami lets go. Sami warns Yachty to watch himself, but Trick EDDY GORDO KICKS, then NECKBREAKERS! The fans fire up while both men are down!
Sami and Trick rise up, and Trick fires haymakers! Trick UPPERCUTS Sami, then whips for a LEG LARIAT! Then a scoop and SLAM! The fans fire up for Trick as he stands over Sami, and Trick grabs Sami’s hand. Trick hears the fans before he cartwheels and ripcords, but Sami arm-drags free! Trick comes back to BOOT Sami down! Trick then aims from the corner as Sami stands, TRICK- NO, Sami dodges to BLUE- NO! Trick slips free of the bomb to BOOKEND! Cover, TWO! Sami survives but Trick puts him in a corner. Trick puts Sami up top, the fans rally, and Trick climbs up. Trick clinches Sami, but Sami fires elbows!
The fans boo as Sami CLUBS Trick again and again and again! Sami then adjusts position, and he SUPER SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMBS! Cover, TWO! Trick survives and Sami is beside himself! Trick goes to a corner but Sami goes to the other. Sami wants to rally the fans, they just boo instead. Sami runs in, but Trick BOOTS Sami first! Then SPIN- NO, Sami ducks the kick to BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Trick lives and Sami grows frustrated. Sami brings Trick up to throw hands, but fans now sing, “Sami, Sami Sucks~!” Sami frowns, whips Trick to ropes, but Trick reverses. Sami goes up and over, but his knee jams!
The fans boo and Trick isn’t sure about this, but the ref has him back off. Trick checks with Yachty, Trick goes after Sami, but Sami cradles Trick! TWO!! Sami almost tricked Trick but now he CLOBBERS him! Yachty protests, but Sami grabs the kendo stick! Sami SMACKS Trick!! Cover, TWO!?!? Trick survives and Sami is stunned! The fans cheer as Sami’s trickery didn’t work! Yachty makes sure to hold onto the kendo stick now, but Sami stalks Trick to a corner. Sami stomps away on Trick, but the ref backs him off. The fans boo Sami but Sami just goes back for more! The ref reprimands again, Sami stops at 4 again, then goes back for another round!
The fans boo as Sami just stomps and stomps and stomps! The ref backs Sami off to check Trick. Sami aims from a corner, and the fans cheer Yachty on! HE SMACKS SAMI! The fans cheer, and Sami staggers into the CYCLONE KICK! Cover, TWO?!? Sami survives and Yachty can’t believe it! Sami crawls to ropes, Trick storms over, but Sami DUMPS Trick out! Then Sami CLOBBERS Yachty! The fans boo as Sami fires off kendo stick SMACKS on Yachty! But then Trick DECKS Sami! Sami falls against the steps, so Trick gets an idea. Trick clinches, but Sami fights the Bookend! DDT on the steps!! The fans boo as Sami pushes Trick into the ring.
Sami then runs up on Yachty! HELLUVA KICK!!! The fans boo as Sami takes Yachty out again! And now he aims at Trick! HELLUVA- NO, Trick dodges! TRICK SHOT!! Cover, TRICK WINS!
Winner: Trick Williams, by pinfall (still WWE United States Champion)
Tampa erupts with even more “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” Sami might’ve had him if he’d just focused, but Trick still reigns while Yachty makes it rain! What will be next for Trick now that he’s dealt with Sami Zayn? And speaking of Sami, what will be next for him now that he has nothing?
The Miz & Kit Wilson VS Danhausen & ???
The Hollywood A-Lister wanted to mentor someone, and that someone ended up the “Real Man of WWE,” not the strange yet strangely entertaining newcomer. However, to settle things once and for all, they are willing to take on Danhausen and whoever it is he has found (or rather, created in a lab?) to be his tag team partner. Will Teamhausen get the winhausen at Backlashausen? Or will the curse be nothing but TOXIC?
Well, speaking of Danhausen’s partner, the lights go down, and some kind of engine is pumping. Danhausen rides in on the Jeephausen, then goes to his “cloning machine” which is still just a big crate. It’s smoking… Is that a good thing? Danhausen pries it open, and from within steps out… MINIHAUSEN! Wait, are we sure that’s the right result? Well, whatever. They hop in the Jeephausen and drive down the ramp. #MizKit mocks Minihausen, and the teams sort out. Minihausen steps up against Kit, and Kit can’t believe this is happening. Minihausen says you, are- BOOT! Kit laughs as he sends Minihausen tumbling away.
Kit drags Minihausen to center, yanks him up, but Minihausen flips through! Then he dodges a kick to KICK, CHOP, CHOP, and whip! Kit reverses but Minihausen springboards to FLYING HEADBUTT! The fans cheer as Minihausen gets going, tilt-o-whirl DDT! Miz tags in, runs up, but Minihausen dodges to tilt-o-whirl and RANA! The fans cheer but Kit grabs Minihausen by his hair! Minihausen KICKS the legs, CHOPS, then knuckle locks! Minihausen CHOPS, goes up, up, and BOOTS Miz before he FLYING-NO, Kit stops the rana! Minihausen fires hands, then he RANAS through after all! The fans cheer as Kit tumbles out to join Miz!
Minihausen goes up, and he climbs onto Danhausen’s shoulders! The fans cheer for the SUPER MINI CROSSBODY! Down goes #MizKit! The fans fire up again while Danhausen fetches Kit. Danhausen puts Kit in for Minihausen, and Minihausen hurries after Kit. But Miz POSTS Danhausen! And Kit CLOBBERS Minihausen! The ref backs Kit off but Miz gets a cheap shot in! The fans boo but Kit looms over Minihausen. Kit drags Minihausen up, whips him into the corner, then tags Miz. Kit scoops Minihausen, TOSSES him to Miz, and Miz gorilla presses Minihausen for the GORILLA PRESS POWERESLAM! Miz rips off his shirt to show off his muscles!
The fans boo but Miz soaks up the heat. Miz tags Kit, they drag Minihausen up, feed and DOUBLE SUPLEX! Then Miz lets Kit hold Minihausen up by his own! Kit swivels his hips before he SLAMS Minihausen down! Cocky cover, TWO! Minihausen survives but Kit covers again, TWO! The fans rally for Minihausen but Kit clamps on a chinlock. Kit thrashes Minihausen around, but the fans rally up! Minihausen rises up, reaches out, but Kit THRASHES Minihausen more! They go to a corner, Kit puts Minihausen up top, then in a Tree of Woe! Kit KNEES Minihausen again and again, then backs off to go to the far corner.
Kit fires up, blows a kiss, then runs up, but Minihausen sits up! Kit crashes into buckles! Minihausen goes up to QUEBRADA! Down goes Kit and the fans fire up! Minihausen crawls, as does Kit, hot tags to Miz and Danhausen! The fans fire up as Danhausen atoimnc drops Miz, then LARIATS! And a wrench and NORTHERN LIGHTS for Kit! Danhausen fires up and the fans are with him! Danhausen LARIATS Miz in a corner, LARIATS Kit in a corner, then repeat! Danuausen runs out of steam already, but then he gets that second wind! The fans cheer as Danhausen LARIATS again! Then he dodges Kit to send him into Miz! GERMAN SUPLEX!
The fans fire up as Danhausen runs, tilt-o-whirls, and DDTS Miz! Danhausen roars as he rises up, and the fans join in with, “YOU! ARE! CURSED!” Kit takes the BOOT for Miz! Miz rolls Danhausen up, TWO! Miz BOOTS Danhausen down! Minihausen tags in, Danhausen dodges, and Miz gets stuck in ropes! Minihausen CLUBS Miz down, then FLYING RANANS Kit! They’re back outside again, and Minihausen DIVES! The Mini Tope takes both men out! The fans fire up as Minihausen chases Kit up the ramp! Kit is freaking out, but he suckers Minihausen into a BOOT! Kit sees the crate, and he decides to THROW Minihausen in!
The fans boo as Kit traps Minihausen in the device that made him! But wait, it powers back up!? And this time, there’s an ARMY OF MINIHAUSEN! They’re back from WrestleMania for revenge! They dog pile Kit, chase him back into the ring, and Minihausen Uno fireman’s carries! AIRPLANE SPIN!! Then a WASTELAND SLAM!! Wade Barrett is upset that his move was used. But Kit, YOU! ARE! CURSED! Wait, the mirror! It sends it back on Minihausen! SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!!! Cover, Danhausen breaks it!! The fans cheer as Teamhausen is still in this! Danhausen fires up, he brings Minihausen to the corner, and Danhausen tags in!
Danhausen has Miz, but Miz SLAPS him! Danhausen scowls, and he hits a THESZ PRESS for fast hands! Miz fights free, but Danhausen LARIATS Miz up and out! Then he LARIATS Kit up and out! Danhausen goes out, high-fives his other Minihausens, but Miz BOOTS Danhausen into the desk! And he brings out a fire extinguisher! Miz says Danhausen’s cursed! Uh, no, Miz is, cuz the extinguisher doesn’t work! Miz looks at it, and it blasts Miz!! Danhausen puts Miz in the ring, then again, “YOU! ARE! CURSED!” Minihausen SUPER DUPER CROSSBODIES Kit! And Danhausen handles Miz with a PUMP KICK!! Cover, Teamhausen wins!
Winners: Danhausen & Minihausen, by pinfall
Whether or not the curse is real, that was a Very Nice, Very Evil victory for Teamhausen! They still don’t have the magical disappearing act down, though. But will Danhausen continue to take over WWE with his loony ways?
Asuka VS Iyo Sky!
The more things change, the more they stay the same. From Triple Tails to DMD CTRL to now, the Empress of Tomorrow and the Genius of the Sky always end up at odds. Asuka-senpai wants to punish Iyo for her apparent disrespect and selfishness, but perhaps does not see that in herself. But will Iyo still suffer for doing what was right? Or will she still not be ready for Asuka?
The bell rings, the fans chant for Iyo, but also “We Want Kairi!” Iyo and Asuka circle, tie up, and go around, even on the mat and back to their feet. Asuka powers Iyo to a corner, Iyo goes up and hits an arm-drag. They’re still locked up as they go to the ropes, and the ref counts. Iyo lets go but Asuka shoves her. They tie up again and now Asuka puts Iyo on the ropes. The ref counts, Asuka stops, but then they throw hands! Asuka manages a headlock and wrangles Iyo down. Iyo fights up, fires body shots, and the fans continue to chant, “We Want Kairi!” Asuka hits a takeover, Iyo headscissors, and Asuka kips free, only for Iyo to headlock back.
Asuka fights up, fires body shots, and she powers out. Iyo RAMS shoulders with Asuka, they egg each other on, then they start shoving. Then Asuka fires forearms, a SOBAT, and runs, but Iyo blows past her! Asuka avoids the handspring but Iyo trips Asuka up! Iyo runs to SHOTGUN Asuka down! The fans fire up with Iyo, she stomps Asuka in the corner, then stops as the ref counts. Asuka ROCKS Iyo, Iyo CLUBS Asuka, but Asuka fires a flurry! Asuka THROWS Iyo, but Iyo handsprings through! Iyo wags her finger, then drop toeholds Asuka into buckles! Iyo digs her boots in, then SWINGING DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO!
Asuka bails out to the apron but Iyo brings her up. Asuka ROCKS Iyo, then goes for a corner. Iyo BACKHANDS Asuka away, then goes to the apron. The fans cheer as Iyo climbs, but Asuka KICKS the legs out! Asuka has Iyo’s hair, and SMACKS her into the post! The fans boo but Asuka shows no remorse as she drags Iyo down. Asuka SMACKS Iyo off the barriers, then puts her on the apron. The fans rally for Iyo while Asuka refreshes the count. Asuka swaggers, then fires Kawada Kicks on Iyo’s face! The fans boo, the ref counts, but Asuka stops at 4. Asuka steps into the ring, drags Iyo around, and has the ANCHOR HOLD!
The ref counts and the fans boo, but Asuka lets go of the leglock Kairi created before she CHOKES Iyo on the ropes. The ref counts again, but Asuka stops, only to put Iyo in a corner. Asuka digs her knee in, stops at 4, then storms back around to scuff Iyo. Asuka kicks Iyo, slaps her around, but Iyo hits back! The fans rally for Iyo, Iyo runs, but Asuka KICKS Iyo down! Cover, TWO! Asuka is annoyed but she clamps onto Iyo’s arm. Iyo endures the armlock, fights up, and the fans rally as she fires body shots! Asuka THROWS Iyo down by her hair! Asuka slaps Iyo around while the fans boo. Asuka paces, then she brings Iyo up for a KICK!
Iyo sputters but she shakes her head. Asuka taunts Iyo, then KICKS her! And KICKS her! Iyo still shakes her head defiantly, so Asuka KICKS, KICKS, and KICKS! Iyo blocks one to ROCK Asuka back! Then a victory roll, STMOP 182! The fans fire up while both women are down! The fans rally as Iyo and Asuka slowly rise up. They both run in, but Iyo dodges to URAKEN! And SHOTEI! And SHOTEI! Iyo reels Asuka in, whips her to a corner, but Asuka reverses. Iyo slips out, duck sunder, then HOTSHOTS the arm! Asuka staggers away, and Iyo goes up for the MISSILE DROPKICK! The fans cheer while Iyo handsprings and does her crazy taunt!
Iyo rallies the fans, then she runs corner to corner, SHINKANSEN! Iyo drags Asuka to a cover, TWO! Asuka survives but Iyo hauls her up. Iyo underhooks for a TIGER- NO, Asuka fights free, and URAKENS! SOBATS! FRONT KICKS! HAYMAKERS! MULE KICKS! Then SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! Iyo survives the strike fest but Asuka keeps her focus. BUZZ- NO, Iyo rolls Asuka up! TWO! Asuka ducks the buzzsaw but not the HEEL KICK! Cover, TWO! Asuka toughs it out but Iyo drags her up. Iyo waistlocks but Asuka flails! Asuka goes to ropes, Iyo pries her free, and GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridging cover, TWO! KIMURA!!
The fans rally for Iyo as she endures, but Asuka has her caught! FUJIWARA ARMBAR! Iyo endures, rolls, and KICKS free! Asuka stumbles towards ropes, Iyo runs up, but Asuka BOOTS back! Iyo comes back, but into a POP-UP KNEE! Asuka runs up, but Iyo dodges to HEEL KICK! Asuka falls, but so does Iyo, and the fans fire up again! Asuka and Iyo crawl to opposite ends, they roar, and they run back up! Asuka hits a FLYING ARMBAR, and rolls it into the ASUKA LOCK!! Iyo fights around before the body scissors can lock in! Iyo stands, Asuka wraistlocks, but Iyo ELBOWS free! And STUNNER! Iyo runs up, but into a snap takedown!
Iyo rolls fast, but ends up in a CROSS ARM BREAKER! Iyo endures, fights around, manages to stack Asuka and roll her, into an ASUKA LOCK?!?! The fans fire up as Iyo makes Asuka suffer her own hold! Asuka flails, reaches out, but the body scissors are in! Asuka kicks, kicks, and reaches out, ROPEBREAK!! The fans rally for Iyo while Asuka coughs and sputters on the apron. Iyo goes up the corner, but Asuka SMACKS her off the post again! Asuka shakes her head, she’s still savvier than Iyo. Asuka climbs up the corner, but Iyo SHOTEIS! The fans cheer as Iyo goes up after Asuka to fire forearms! Iyo goes to the very top, for a SUPER STEINER!
But Asuka sunset flips it?! TWO!!! Asuka almost had Iyo and she is freaking out! The fans rally harder as Asuka roars and runs in on Iyo! Iyo dodges the hip attack to DROPKICK Asuka outta the ring! Iyo shakes out her bad arm, yanks on it to get it feeling right, and she builds speed for a DIVE into a forearm! Asuka drags Iyo out, SMACKS her off the desk, then pushes her onto it. Asuka clears the desk before she climbs up. The fans rally as Asuka brings Iyo up, but Iyo fights the suplex! Asuka SOBATS Iyo for it, then winds up, but Iyo BLOCKS THE MIST WITH A NOTEBOOK! The fans cheer as Iyo outsmarts her senpai! Then she blocks a kick, DRAGON SCREW on the desk!
The fans fire up as Iyo pushes Asuka around, then goes up to CROSSBODY! The fans fire up again as Iyo refreshes the count, climbs back up, and ASAI MOONSAULTS! Down goes Asuka and the fans fire up again! Iyo drags Asuka up, puts her in the ring, and she sees Asuka going to a drop zone. Iyo drags Asuka into place, goes up and up and OVER THE MOONSAULT! But Asuka moves! And she reels Iyo in for an ARMBAR!!! Iyo flails, fights around, but ends up in a TRIANGLE HOLD! Iyo stacks it, TWO, and into the ASUKA LOCK!! Asuka has the body scissors! Iyo flails, reaches out, but Asuka has her caught! IYO fades, but springs to life! She rolls to a cover, TWO!!!
Asuka grabs at Iyo, frustrated with Iyo, but “This is Awesome!” Asuka looks Iyo in the eyes before she SLAPS her! Iyo SLAPS back, and they SLAP back and forth! Iyo fires more fast hands and the fans fire up again! Then ROUND- NO, Asuka slips under, around, and GERMAN SUPLEXES! But Iyo ducks the buzzsaw! GERMAN SUPLEX in return! Asuka goes to a corner, Iyo runs back in, SHINKANSEN! Iyo sets Asuka back in place, steps on her, and goes up the corner! OVER THE MOONSAULT!! Cover, IYO WINS!
Winner: Iyo Sky, by pinfall
After the months of Asuka being overbearing and selfish, she is the one that suffers defeat! Iyo still shows her senpai respect with a deep bow, and Asuka starts to tear up. And they HUG! Perhaps this defeat has shown Asuka the light! The fans cheer as these two stand together, and perhaps there’s hope for a new beginning. Will Iyo herself find a new path back to a championship?
JOHN CENA is here!
Tampa cheers as The GOAT is back again, dressed in another sharp suit as he goes to the ring for some business. Cena takes the mic and says, “This is just so cool, honestly. One of the great things about being on this side now is I can really lean into moments you just allowed me to be a part of, because I know there’s no one coming down to kick my teeth in. So truly, thank you so much.” The fans cheer, and Cena continues by saying a sold-out house of gratitude and energy, he loves to hear it. But it’s moments like this that had him ever thinking, what would be the next phase of his WWE career? The fans chant “One More Match!”
Cena says he expected that. And you don’t know how good that makes him feel. He does think about his last match. The fans boo, probably booing Gunther specifically. Cena gets that, there are people who were upset. But he was truly happy. Honestly, he looks back and he couldn’t be happier. What was most important to him was that they all made it something bigger. In its entirety, that night was an evening of opportunity. Cena made sure the person had to win their way into that spot. He asked the WE Superstars if they’d be gracious enough to give opportunity, which they did when they faced NXT superstars so that NXT could be in front of a crowd like this, showing what they’ve got.
And think about this: on that night, for the first time, the main roster got to see Sol Ruca, Je’Von Evans, and Oba Femi! The fans certainly cheer for “O~BA! HOOT!” Cena hopes Oba is watching and listening, this is what the energy sounds like? Oba debuted in December, and four months later, he is strutting, and kicking Brock Lesnar’s ass at WrestleMania! The fans cheer that! That’s when it hit Cena: They gotta do this again! So we are. Oh? Cena is honored here tonight to announce to the world, the John Cena Classic! And entire evening of the best of today competing against the best of tomorrow!
And entire night where WWE Superstars and NXT Superstars get to give you all they have, in hopes of being crowned a champion. Yes, we’re making history with a brand new event, and a brand new championship! And not just any championship. This is an event and a title that Cena is personally putting his name on. So Cena is going to strive for a certain level of excellence, and he’ll do everything he can to make it special. Cena has said time and time again, the biggest star in the WWE is the WWE Universe! So on top of the new event, on top of the new title, for the first time in history, the voice of the fans will be heard louder than ever before.
Because you, the audience, will vote to crown the champion of the John Cena Classic! And every participant qualifies! That also means that for the first time in history, a superstar might not win their match, but their hustle, could win your respect, and win your vote to still be crowned champion! This event embodies everything Cena stands for and values, and he cannot stress enough how important this is for him. He promises to give us his all to make this event just once. No, he wants to do it two years, five years, ten years, thirty, the sky is the limit! Cena wants to thank the stars like Oba Femi who busted their ass on that Saturday Night’s Main Event to make this a relaity.
Cena lets the fans go on with “O~BA! O~BA!” Cena continues by saying he also wants to thank the WWE for being gracious enough to accept this idea. And he wants to thank everyone watching at home, and here in the City of Tampa, that there are a lot of people here that know Tampa means a lot to Cena for a lot of reasons. And they can add this to the list: Thank you so much for your attention, for your time, for your enthusiasm, for your energy, and for the NOISE~! The fans cheer that! Cena says it sounds like they’re ready, so he will see you at the John Cena Classic. And now, it’s time for your maaaaaaaain~ event!
The fans are all fired up for this massive move by not just the Greatest of All Time but by the WWE itself. Who will show they have that hustle, loyalty and respect to become the inaugural John Cena Classic Champion?
WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Roman Reigns VS Jacob Fatu!
When the OTC took this title from CM Punk at WrestleMania, everyone worried the OG Bloodline would relapse into their old ways. But before they could even address such concerns, the Samoan Werewolf stepped up and made his challenge known. Will Jacob take everything he wants so he can everything he needs? Or will he have no choice but to ACKNOWLEDGE the Tribal Chief?
Jacob wears a white lei made by his cousin, the daughter of Haku, the man who innovated the Tongan Death Grip. Surely that is a sign of Haku’s blessing on this challenge for the top spot in their family tree. Roman raises the World Heavyweight Championship for the pyro, then goes to the ring. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is truly the head of the table!
The bell rings and the fans sing “Roman, Roman Reigns~!” Fatu and Roman stare down, but then Fatu looks to the belt. The fans are dueling now as Roman and Fatu slowly circle. They tie up, go around, then Roman headlocks. Fatu powers up and out, but Roman RUNS him over! Roman puts up his finger, but Fatu stands right up! Roman is rather surprised, then brushes it off as the two reset. The dueling from the fans continues as the two circle again. They tie up, Fatu headlocks, but Roman endures the grind. Roman powers up, powers out, but Fatu RUNS Roman over! Roman is again surprised, but things speed up now.
Roman drops down, hurdles, and LARIATS! But Fatu stays up! Fatu LARIATS and Roman falls! The fans fire up with Fatu and he runs up again, to LARIAT Roman up and out! Fatu is feeling it, and he builds speed to DIVE! TONGAN DEATH GRIP!! Fatu uses the tope to take Roman off guard for this vice grip! Fatu POSTS Roman, puts him in the ring, then grins as he stalks Roman. Roman bails out the side but Fatu storms up to drag him up. Roman HOTSHOTS Fatu down! Roman pulls Fatu’s arm against the ropes, but he lets go as the ref counts. Roman then bends Fatu’s fingers, and SLAMS the hand against the POST!
The fans duel as the two go around the way. Roman ELBOW BREAKERS, then puts Fatu in the ring. The dueling gets hotter but Roman brushes it off. Roman wrenches Fatu to YANK the arm, and YANK the arm, and bumps Fatu off buckles. Roman pulls the bad arm against ropes, but Fatu HEADBUTS Roman away! Fatu ROCKS Roman, even with the bad hand. Fatu HEADBUTTS Roman, HEADBUTTS again, but Roman UPPERCUTS! Roman ROCKS Fatu, then puts him in a corner. Roman climbs up to rain down fists! The fans count but Fatu stops Roman at three. Roman LARIATS again and again, but Fatu stops him at five!
Fatu has the cording hold to then short arm LARIAT! The fans fire up while Roman is down! Fatu dares Roman to get up, then drags him around. Fatu HEADBUTTS Roman, HEADBUTTS again, then drags Roman up to POST him! Roman sputters in the corner but Fatu dumps him out to the apron. The fans continue to duel, and Jacob revels in it all. Fatu says he’s taking it all! Fatu sees Roman back in the corner, runs up, but Roman dodges! The splash hits the post, and Roman LARIATS! And LARIATS! Roman whips, Fatu reverses, but Roman LEAPING LARIATS! The fans fire up with Roman now, and he runs up in the corner to LARIAT!
Roman keeps moving, and he BOOTS Fatu down! Fatu flounders while Roman raises the finger to the sky. Roman locks ‘n’ loads, SUPERMAN PUNCH! Cover, ONE?!? Fatu even stands up and geeks out! The fans are fired up and Roman’s seen a ghost! The fans rally behind Fatu as he stares Roman down. Roman runs up, but Fatu counter punches! And counter punches! And counter punches again! Fatu whips but Roman KICKS him! Fatu just fires up again! LARIAT! SENTON! Fatu goes to a corner while Roman crawls to the other. Fatu runs up, LARIAT! Fatu climbs up, and he HEADBUTTS again and again! The fans count all the way to TEN!
Fatu then runs corner to corner, and he HIP ATTACKS! Roman sputters, Fatu geeks out, and the fans are thunderous! Fatu gets moving again, but SUPERMAN PUNCH! Cover, TWO! Fatu survives that sudden turnaround, and the fans are dueling as hard as they have all night. Roman sees Fatu on the outside, so he rolls out and takes aim. Roman runs to DRIVE-BY DROPKICK! Roman busts out a classic for this one, then he looks to the desk. Roman clears the desk, then he fetches Fatu. But TONGAN DEATH GRIP!! Fatu holds on tight, and he reels Roman in for a POWERBOMB down through the desk! Tampa loses their minds from this destruction!
Fatu clears out the armchairs, then he drags Roman up from the wreckage. Fatu puts Roman in at 7 of 10, then hurries to line up another shot! HIP- SPEAR!! Cover, TWO!! Roman almost ends it there, but Fatu is still tougher than all that! “This is Awesome!” as both men slowly stir. Roman sits up, crawls over to a corner, but so does Fatu. The fans rally harder and harder, and Roman stands! The fans cheer as Roman lets out the “OOOAH~!” Fatu rises, Roman runs up, but Fatu POP-UP SAMOAN DROPS!! Fatu drags Roman into the drop zone! MIGHTY MOONSAULT!! Cover, TWO?!?! Roman survives and shocks everyone!
Fatu is beside himself, but he just unleashes FALLING HEADBUTT again and again! Then he rains down forearms and fists! Fatu vows to end this, and he drags Roman back to the drop zone. Fatu goes back up, says “SUCK IT!” and SWANTON BOMB but onto knees!! A double-edged way to save himself given Roman clutches his knee, but better than letting Fatu hit that directly. The fans rally up as both men crawl to each other. They stare down, and they fire haymakers! The fans rally and duel as the shots go back and forth, harder and harder, faster and faster! Fatu rebounds to ROCK Roman, but Roman rebounds to ROCK Fatu!
Fatu UPPERCUTS Roman, but Roman UPPERCUTS back! Fatu UPPERCUTS Roman to a corner, and HIP ATTACKS! Then ANOTHER HIP ATTACK! The fans are thunderous again as Fatu prepares his hand! Roman rises up, TONGAN DEATH GRIP!!! Roman grabs at Fatu’s hand but he can’t pry free! Roman is fading, dropping to his knees already! The fans duel as hard as they can as Fatu keeps his grip on Roman’s throat! The ref checks, and Roman comes back to life! Roman rises up, he CLAWS Fatu’s face, and RAMS him into the ref! The fans are torn, this looks like Tribal Chief of old! SUERPMAN PUNCH!
Fatu staggers around, but Roman SUPERMAN PUNCHES again! Roman keeps moving, but Fatu SUPERKICKS! Roman rebounds, into a POP-UP, but Roman SUPERMAN PUNCHES!! And SPEARS!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? No one knows what to make of this, least of all Roman! Roman argues with the ref, but then the TONGAN DEATH GRIP!!! Roman grabs at the ref, the ref shakes free, and they end up in a corner. The buckle pad comes off, the ref takes that, but Roman THROWS Fatu into the steel! SPEAR!!! Cover, ROMAN WINS!!
Winner: Roman Reigns, by pinfall (still WWE World Heavyweight Champion)
Fatu wakes up and is furious! Roman did all of that out of desperation, and Fatu takes it up with the ref. The ref says he couldn’t do anything abut the buckle, but Fatu CHOKES Roman!! The ref tries to stop Fatu, Fatu SHOVES him down, and then he has the TONGAN DEATH GRIP back on Roman!! The ref tries again, Fatu backs off, but then POP-UP SMAON DROPS him!! TONGAN DEATH GRIP on Roman!! Producers rush out here, but Fatu SUPERKICKS Shane Helms down! And he TOSSES Adam Pearce!! The fans can’t believe it, but Fatu just puts the TONGAN DEATH GRIP back on Roman!!
The producers try but fail to pry Fatu away from Roman, and Roman is foaming at the mouth! Roman is OUT, and Fatu says he told Roman and he told us all, he’s gonna take EVERYTHING! And then he’s not done!! He shoves his way through the producers to CHOKE Roman again!!! Pearce is back up and he tells Fatu to stop! Fatu’s going cross-eyed, he’s that unhinged!! Fatu holds up the title as he stands over Roman, even though he did not win. What consequences will there be for Fatu after going this far?
My Thoughts:
A great Backlash, maybe one of the better ones in a long time. Great opening from Rollins VS Bron, though Rollins was maybe trying too hard to pull off the “land out of Super Steiner” a la Will Ospreay. Of course The Vision got involved, and that helped protect Rollins in his loss, which makes me think we’ll get a rematch over the summer. I also still think there’s going to be a Six Man Tag of Rollins & Profits VS Vision at some point, too. Great US Championship match from Trick VS Sami, and to my surprise, Trick wins rather than Sami cheating to win and make them 1-1. There’s no reason for a tiebreaker now, so both of them are likely moving on.
Danhausen’s partner being “Minihausen,” aka El Torito/Mascarita Dorada, was an interesting surprise. Not quite what anyone was expecting or hoping for, but Minihausen won the fans in Tampa over. I was expecting a “Megahausen” to step out of the crate after Kit threw Minihausen back in, but I suppose that’d be a matter of who else they’d get to cosplay Danhausen. Too bad they let go of Jeff Cobb before this… Anyway, great win for Teamhausen, but I can’t be sure if this feud with Miz & Kit ends here or not. The feud of Asuka VS Iyo is certainly over now after their great grudge match, but also because they let Kairi Sane go, denying the rightful story blowoff of Kairi standing up to Asuka. Maybe Asuka turns Face, maybe not, Raw on Monday will give us more.
John Cena’s announcement was not what I was expecting. It definitely wasn’t going to be #OneMoreMatch, I knew that. And with buzz of a revived Lucha Underground going around the internet, that was likely to be announced more by Rey Mysterio or another of the LU alumni like Penta or Rey Fenix. A John Cena Classic, where the entries are likely chosen by WWE but then the fans elect the champion(s)… This can either go very well or very poorly. My mind goes to times when like American Idol ended up with troll votes to keep the actual last place person still going. Or even WWE’s Cyber Sunday and Taboo Tuesday, where no one could be sure if the vote was shoot or kayfabe. Hopefully the title looks awesome, though, maybe with a spinner on it.
And great main event from Roman VS Fatu with the fans split pretty much 50-50. Roman did this on his own but he technically still cheated. And with Fatu going after Roman in his rage, there’s a good chance this is far from over. I don’t think they’ll do something for Clash of Italy when Cody VS Gunther for the Undisputed Championship is going to be the main event there, but something during the European tour could be good build material towards Night of Champions or even SummerSlam.
My Score: 8.9/10
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