Coverage
Mitchell’s NJPW G1 Climax 31 Results & Report! (10/9/21)
Round 7, A Block!

Who gets lucky in the A Block’s seventh round?
A Block is led by the Submission Master and Golden Star, but THE IWGP World Heavyweight Champion could rise back up! Will Shingo Takagi soar again?
NOTE: NJPW no longer wants to feed AXS TV now that it is with Anthem and Impact Wrestling. But never fear, I will cover NJPW in the spirit of AXS in providing the most important matches of the show.
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Zack Sabre Jr. VS KENTA; Kenta wins.
- Toru Yano VS Yujiro Takahashi w/ Pieter; Yano wins.
- Shingo Takagi VS Tanga Loa w/ Jado; Takagi wins.
- Kota Ibushi VS Great-O-Khan; Ibushi wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Here are the current A Block standings!
Zack Sabre Jr: 5-1, 10 points
Kota Ibushi: 5-2, 10 points
Shingo Takagi: 4-2, 8 points
Kenta: 4-2, 8 points
Tomohiro Ishii: 4-3, 8 points [has special singles bye]
Great-O-Khan: 4-3, 8 points
Toru Yano: 3-3, 6 points
Tanga Loa: 2-4, 4 points
Yujiro Takahashi: 2-4, 4 points
Zack Sabre Jr. VS KENTA!
The Submission Master is still leading the block, but that could change in an instant! Will the Fang Revived take a bite out of this Dangerous Tekker? Or will ZSJ take the block by making Kenta #JustTapOut?
The two get in each other’s face as ZSJ gets in the ring. ZSJ shoves Kenta back towards the blue corner then goes to the red. ZSJ puts jacket and title belt aside, the bell rings and fans rally up as the two push each other with chests and shoulders. Kenta throws the first forearm but ZSJ gives it back. Kenta hits again so ZSJ hits back. Kenta throws another, ZSJ gives it back! ZSJ eggs Kenta on and fans rally up as the forearms fly faster and faster! ZSJ EuroUppers again and again but Kenta kicks and kicks, into a heel hook! Kenta scrambles and gets the ropebreak! The ref counts, ZSJ lets off and fans cheer as Kenta bails out. ZSJ goes out to BOOT Kenta in the leg! And then STOMP it!
ZSJ drags Kenta around, has a standing toehold, then twists the foot the other way to turn Kenta over. ZSJ lets go to STOMP the back of the knee! The ref reprimands, ZSJ gives Kenta toying kicks. Kenta stands up to SLAP ZSJ! ZSJ KICKS Kenta’s bad leg and Kenta sits down. ZSJ gets in the ring and dares Kenta to bring it. Fans cheer, the ring count starts, and Kenta paces. Kenta lets the count go to 10 of 20 before he gets on the apron, and he takes his time getting in the ropes. ZSJ waits, Kenta returns and SLAPS him again! ZSJ KICKS the bad leg, runs to KICK it again, then drags Kenta around for another toehold! ZSJ has one leg hooked while he puts the other in an ANKLE LOCK!
ZSJ then turns Kenta over, deathlocks the legs and pulls Kenta back into a modified BOW ‘N’ ARROW! Kenta endures as ZSJ has him upside-down and bending back, but then ZSJ lets him down to MUTA LOCK! Kenta endures, pops free, ZSJ has a sleeper but Kenta has the ropebreak! Fans cheer as ZSJ lets off and stomps the bad leg. ZSJ gives more toying kicks then runs, but Kenta kitchen sink knees ZSJ down! And KICKS him in the back! And then the side! And the back again! ZSJ eggs Kenta on so Kenta gives him another KICK to the chest. And another! ZSJ says bring it, so Kenta KICKS him out of the ring!
Kenta goes out after ZSJ, brings him up and around the way to whip hard into railing! ZSJ falls over, Kenta kicks at him again, then gives him toying kicks. ZSJ stands and leans on Kenta but Kenta ROCKS him with a forearm! ZSJ drops down, Kenta glares at El Desperado and Yoshinobu Kanemaru on commentary, then whips ZSJ corner to corner. Kenta might be sending a message to Suzuki-Gun through this as he puts ZSJ back in the ring. Fans cheer and Kenta smirks as he stalks ZSJ. Kenta gives more toying kicks but fans rally up, “Z S J! Z S J!” ZSJ gets to a corner as Kenta gives him more kicks, and ZSJ comes back to EuroUpper! Kenta eggs ZSJ on then rakes the eyes!
Kenta whips, another kitchen sink knee! Kenta starts undoing a corner buckle pad! He has learned well from Yano as he whips ZSJ into the bare buckles! ZSJ falls and writhes and the ref reprimands but Kenta just shrugs it off. Kenta drags ZSJ up and whips him back into bare buckles! Kenta stomps ZSJ on his bad back, brings ZSJ up but ZSJ EuroUppers! Kenta eggs him on so ZSJ fires more EuroUppers. Kenta knees low, snapmares and KICKS ZSJ in the back. Kenta stands on ZSJ for a cocky cover but ZSJ kicks out even before the ref starts! Fans fire up for that but Kenta sobats him down! Kenta snapmares but ZSJ bridges up to HALF HATCH and basement dropkick!
Fans fire up as both men are down! They rally up, “Z S J! Z S J!” and ZSJ stands. He drags Kenta up, EuroUppers again and again, but Kenta blocks the snapmare. Kenta throws body shots, ZSJ reverses the whip to drag Kenta down with wristlocks, then he scissors Kenta’s head, NECK TWIST! Kenta writhes and fans fire up again while ZSJ catches his breath. ZSJ drags Kenta up, snapmares again and fakes the kick to NECK TWIST again! Cocky cover, ONE! Kenta gets up, and he ROCKS ZSJ with a forearm. ZSJ comes back to forearm in return. Kenta ROCKS ZSJ again, but ZSJ comes back to EuroUpper! Kenta throws another forearm, ZSJ throws another EuroUpper!
ZSJ dares Kenta to keep going, so Kenta forearms again. ZSJ throws a trio of EuroUppers, Kenta ROCKS ZSJ again, but ZSJ comes back, only for Kenta to POWERSLAM! Fans fire up again as both men are down. Kenta stands, brings ZSJ up but ZSJ EuroUppers! ZSJ runs in but Kenta BOOTS! Kenta hops up and reels ZSJ in, TORNADO HOTSHOT! ZSJ is down, Kenta goes back up! Kenta aims as ZSJ stands, FLYING LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Kenta gets the arm in an omoplata but ZSJ scrambles to the ropebreak! Kenta lets go, ZSJ goes to the apron but Kenta stomps him down. Kenta drags ZSJ up and through the ropes, but ZSJ brings Kenta in for an IRON OCTOPUS in the ropes!
The ref counts, ZSJ lets Kenta go at 4, but then he gets the arm on the apron to STOMP it! Kenta writhes and fans rally back up as ZSJ gets back in. ZSJ digs his elbow into Kenta’s shoulders then isolates the bad arm. ZSJ stands Kenta up to wrench the arm but Kenta throws a forearm with the good one. ZSJ wrenches again but Kenta throws another forearm. ZSJ wrenches, Kenta forearms again and again! ZSJ hits an ELBOW BREAKER, EuroUpper, but Kenta BOOTS! Kenta spins into a boot but URAKENS back! ZSJ wrenches to PELE the arm! Both men are down and fans fire up again. Kenta gets to a corner and drags himself up but ZSJ runs in, only for Kenta to put him in the ropes! BRAINKILLER!!
ZSJ clutches his neck from the draping DDT, and fans rally up as Kenta aims. Kenta runs corner to corner to JUMPING BOOT! ZSJ sits down, Kenta goes corner to corner again, HESITATION DROPKICK! Kenta growls and goes up the corner while ZSJ is still down. DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS! Cover, TWO!! ZSJ survives the coup de grace but Kenta slashes the throat. Kenta fireman’s carries but ZSJ blocks! ZSJ gets around, hooks Kenta up, COBRA TWIST! Suzuki-Gun on commentary is fired up, but Kenta fights his way out to get the omoplata! ZSJ rolls to get the TRIANGLE HOLD! Kenta rolls and pops free to go for the crossface!
ZSJ fights, scoots, rolls, pops free, and omoplata! Then he traps Kenta’s other arm! Not quite the Jim Breaks Special, and Kenta still endures! ZSJ tries to keep Kenta back but Kenta reaches out, ROPEBREAK! ZSJ has to let go but fans are fired up! Fans rally back up as both men are down and stirring. ZSJ drags Kenta up, reels him in, but Kenta blocks the scoop! Kenta throws body shots, wrenches and fireman’s carries, but ZSJ slips off to trip Kenta! Body scissor, JAPANESE CLUTCH! TWO!! ZSJ hurries to hook the legs, and he STOMPS both knees! Kenta writhes and ZSJ catches his breath as fans rally up again.
Kenta stands, ZSJ KICKS the legs out! ZSJ fires the fans up again and runs, but Kenta gets up to BUSAIKU KNEE! Both men are down again and fans rally back up. Kenta drags himself up the ropes, goes to ZSJ and runs in, but ZSJ catches knee to a HEEL HOOK! Kenta endures, reaches, but ZSJ shifts the grip! Kenta crawls and gets the ROPEBREAK! ZSJ lets go but fans are thunderous now! ZSJ drags Kenta up, hooks the bad leg around the ropes and then runs side to side to SHOTGUN the leg! Kenta falls and grits his teeth as he clutches the leg. Fans still rally, ZSJ eggs Kenta on, and then he runs to PENALTY KICK, but Kenta blocks!
ZSJ throws slap after slap, Kenta SLAPS then DISCUS LARIATS! Kenta fires up, sits ZSJ up but ZSJ ducks the buzzsaw to waistlock and drag Kenta down. But not to get a cover, he rolls Kenta sideways to tie up the legs in a KNEE LOCK CALF KILLER! Kenta rolls but ZSJ rolls with him, Calf Slicer and a heel hook, but then ZSJ puts it over the shoulder! ORIENTEERING WITH NAPALM DEATH!! Kenta fights and moves around, fans rally, and Kenta gets the ROPEBREAK! Fans are thunderous again as Kenta survives! ZSJ is too tired to be frustrated, but he does give kicks from the mat. Kenta sits up and is annoyed as ZSJ toys with him more.
The two stand, and ZSJ stomps Kenta’s leg. And again! And again! Kenta growls as ZSJ keeps kicking and dares him to bring it! ZSJ kicks and kicks but Kenta blocks to fireman’s carry! ZSJ gets out, arm-drags, EUROCLUTCH! TWO!! Kenta narrowly escapes and Suzuki-Gun on commentary is shocked! ZSJ throws a EuroUpper, ducks the Uraken and fires off SLAPPING shots! Kenta CROSS COUNTERS, then fires off more slapping shots in return! Kenta DECKS ZSJ with that last one! Kenta brings the kneepad off, drags ZSJ around, fireman’s carries and GO TO- NO! ZSJ blocks for an ANKLE LOCK! Kenta SLAPS away but ZSJ TWISTS the foot more!!
Kenta moves around, ZSJ keeps him from ropes, fans rally up again, and Kenta rolls ZSJ into the bare buckles!! Fireman’s carry! GO TO SLEEP!!! Kenta pushes ZSJ over to the cover, Kenta wins!!
Winner: Kenta, by pinfall (gains 2 points; ZSJ earns 0)
The Fang Revived refused to give up, and now he has just taken down the top of the block! Is there suddenly a new pecking order in the G1?
Toru Yano VS Yujiro Takahashi w/ Pieter!
The Clown Prince couldn’t slay The Dragon and Tokyo Pimp was made to submit to ZSJ. With time counting down to the finals, who starts their last minute run at the top right here?
Yano wants Yujiro to exit the ring as he makes his entrance, but Yujiro instead BOOTS Yano right down! Yano gets up and Yujiro builds speed as the bell rings. Yujiro DIVES to take Yano out at the ramp! Fans fire up as Yujiro gets up and grabs Yano’s special red chair. Yujiro takes off the advertisement, sits it up on the ramp, then pours out Yano’s bag of tricks. And yes, there were plenty of cuffs and wrist tape rolls in there. Yujiro uses tape to tie up Yano completely! He’s wrapping him like a mummy! Yujiro makes Yano take a seat and then BOOTS him down! Fans cheer but the ring count is climbing! Yujiro goes in at 10 of 20 and leaves Yano to the count’s mercy.
Yano is still down at 15 of 20! He manages to stand at 17 and undoes the tape to get in at 19! Yujiro stomps Yano down, then copies him by undoing a corner buckle pad! Well Yano’s tricks are all well known, it isn’t that hard to copy. Yujiro struggles with that last bit, though, so he gives up on that to stomp Yano down. Yujiro then tries to untie the other neutral corner pad. This one was easier to figure out and then he goes to Yano. Yano kicks and facelocks, but Yujiro BITES his hand! Yujiro whips Yano into bare buckles! And now Yujiro unties Bullet Club’s favorite blue corner buckle pad! Half the corners are bare and the ref reprimands.
Yujiro brings Yano up and whips him into the blue corner! Yano bounces off more bare buckles, and now Yujiro undoes the red corner! Three corners are bare and Yujiro goes to Yano again. Yujiro whips Yano and Yano hits bare buckles again! Pieter is happy to see this as Yujiro covers, TWO! Yujiro keeps cool as he brings Yano up again and throws him out of the ring. Yujiro then pursues, Pieter sneaks the pimp cane to him and distracts the ref. Yujiro gets some space then runs in at Yano, CANE SHOT! Yujiro drops the cane and Pieter leaves the ref alone as Yujiro drags Yano up. Yujiro puts Yano in and covers, TWO!
Fans rally but Yujiro stomps Yano down. Yujiro knees Yano low, and again, then stands him against ropes. Yujiro backs up to BOOT! Yujiro then runs but into an atomic drop! Yano says it’s time for payback, and he whips Yujiro. Yujiro reverses, Yano stops himself and then dodges as Yujiro runs in! Yujiro gets bare buckles, Yano rolls him up, TWO! Fans fire up and Yano goes to low blow but Yujiro blocks! Fireman’s carry but Yano slips out. Yujiro dodges the clothesline, kicks low and then shoves Yano into bare buckles! But the ref won’t let Yujiro low blow! Yano learns that was the plan and he rakes Yujiro’s eyes! Clinch and Belly2Belly suplex!
Fans fire up with Yano and he runs, into Yujiro’s LARIAT! Pieter is happy again and Yujiro drags Yano up. Fisherman BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Yujiro fires up and fans rally as he brings Yano up. Yano avoids Pimp Juice, shoves Yujiro into the ref, and LOW BLOWS! But Yujiro holds onto the ref as Yano rolls him up! The ref goes down and can’t count the cover! Yano would’ve won if not for that! Yano tells the ref to get up already, but Yujiro LOW BLOWS Yano! Both men are down and feeling real sore as fans rally up. Yujiro staggers up and hobbles over to Yano to bring him up and throw him out. Yujiro gets some of Yano’s cuffs and gets them on Yano.
The ref sees this and reprimands but Yujiro brings Yano to railing! Yano fights free, and goes under the ring?! Pieter and Yujiro look around but they don’t find Yano. Yujiro shouts for Yano to get out from under the ring, but then he goes under after him! The ref looks for both of them, Pieter wonders where they’ll come out from, and a ring count starts. What are they even doing under there? We’re at 10 of 20 but we still have no signs of them. Wait, Yano gets kicked out from under but he hurries into the ring at 15! Yujiro is the one who ended up cuffed?!? Yujiro is stuck outside, Yano wins!!
Winner: Toru Yano, by count-out (gains 2 points; Yujiro earns 0)
Pieter is in shock! Tokyo Pimp got caught and the provisional Mr. KOPW 2021 gets away with it! Will Yano continue to find new ways of skirting the rules to victory?
Shingo Takagi VS Tanga Loa w/ Jado!
The IWGP World Heavyweight Champion is not out of the running, but his chance at history could be ended if he isn’t careful. Can the Silverback go Ape Shit and slay the Dragon in the seventh?
Loa and Jado Low Sweet and Takagi puts aside the jacket and world title. The bell rings and fans rally up as Takagi and Loa approach. Loa rams Takagi with a shoulder, then fires off forearms in the corner! Fans rally but Takagi turns things around and he fires off forearms in return! Takagi tops it off, Loa goes forehead to forehead with Takagi, so Takagi throws another forearm. Loa roars and forearms back, but Takagi brushes it off. Takagi throws another forearm, Loa nods and throws another. Takagi forearms, Loa returns it, again and again as fans rally up. They build up speed, drop the guard and just keep going!
Loa gets the edge, eggs Takagi on, and Takagi forearms, knees and headlocks! Loa powers out and the two ram shoulders, but neither falls. Loa and Takagi fire up, Loa runs and they ram shoulders again. Loa dares Takagi to try, and Takagi runs, but Loa drops. Takagi then stops at the ropes to fake out the hurdle, and he runs Loa over with a shoulder! Fans cheer and Takagi brings Loa around for an elbow drop. And another! And BACK SENTON! Cover, TWO! Takagi wraps on a rear bearhug to keep Loa down. Loa fights up, Takagi straddles and body scissors. Loa endures the squeeze, Takagi CLUBS him on the back, but Loa crawls and reaches out to get the ropebreak.
Takagi lets Loa go to stomp him down, but Jado coaches Loa up. Fans build to a rally, Takagi puts Loa on the ropes to knee low. Takagi throws another knee, whips Loa to ropes the knees him again. Takagi runs but into Loa’s DROPKICK! Fans fire up while both are down, but Loa gets fans rallying up. Takagi goes to ropes, Loa runs in but Takagi puts him on the apron. Takagi ROCKS Loa, runs but Loa holds the ropes down and Takagi ends up on the apron with him! Loa CLUBS Takagi, brings him up but Takagi stops that to fireman’s carry. Loa fights that and they start throwing forearms on the apron’s edge. Loa gets the edge with his forearms, then APRON BACK SUPLEXES!
Fans fire up and Jado coaches Loa up while Takagi writhes on the apron. Loa catches his breath, and drags Takagi to the floor. Loa leaves Takagi behind as fans rally up, and a ring count begins. Loa wants it to go faster, then he gets impatient and goes out after Takagi. Loa CLUBS Takagi on the back, then CLUBS him against railing. Loa puts Takagi back into the ring then slingshot sentons! Fans fire up as Loa STANDING MOONSAULTS! Cover, TWO! Loa argues the count but Red Shoes says it’s fair. So Loa CHOKES Takagi! Red Shoes counts, Loa stops at 2 and drags Takagi up into a sleeper. Takagi endures and fights up to throw body shots.
Takagi is free and he snap suplexes! But Loa is right up! Loa roars and runs Takagi over with a shoulder! Fans fire up while Loa paces around. Loa drags Takagi up, fireman’s carries and RAMS Takagi into a corner. Loa RAMS his shoulder in more, then lets off to stand Takagi up. Loa throws forearm after forearm, but Takagi headbutts! Loa headbutts back! Loa applauds Takagi’s fighting spirit and he stands Takagi up to whip corner to corner and clothesline! Then a whip out then in for another clothesline! Loa nods and brings Takagi up to scoop, OKLAHOMA STAMPEDE! Cover, TWO! Loa keeps on Takagi with a trap of the arm, and the OG KILLER CROSSFACE!
Takagi endures and fans rally up as Loa pulls back! Loa pulls back even further but Takagi fights and moves around to get the ropebreak! Red Shoes counts, Loa lets off at 3, and fans rally up as Takagi rises. Loa reels Takagi in but Takagi fights the clinch with elbows. Loa kicks low, runs, but Takagi ELBOWS! JABS! YUKON LARIAT! But Loa stays up? So Takagi JABS again, YUKON feint to the DDT! Fans fire up again as Takagi stands. Takagi drags Loa up, whips him to the corner then runs in but blocks the boot. Takagi clotheslines through! “Mada mada!” Takagi goes to suplex but Loa blocks! Takagi powers up and suplexes Loa high and hard! Cover, TWO!
Takagi fires the fans up with “OI! OI! OI!” and they clap along. Takagi gets up, his ribs bothering him. He drags Loa up, reels him in but Loa blocks the back suplex. Takagi keeps trying but Loa pries the hold open. Loa wrenches, kicks, kicks and ENZIGURIS! But Takagi comes back, only to swing into a BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO! Fans fire up but Loa is shocked! Fans rally again, Loa brings Takagi up and reels him in, but Takagi blocks the bomb. Takagi back drops Loa away and comes back to get around, SAIDO! Loa gets up, ducks the lariat and EXPLODERS! But Takagi’s up in the corner, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Loa comes back to LARIAT Takagi down!
Loa storms back over to Takagi, gets him up, SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO!! Takagi is still in this and Jado is frustrated on Loa’s behalf. Fans rally up and Loa slowly gets up. Loa drags Takagi up, scoops and aims, but Takagi gets the ropes and sits on the top rope. Takagi drives elbows into Loa’s shoulder, shoves him away, but Loa PELES back! Loa then goes up top to join Takagi, and brings Takagi up onto his shoulder! SUPER POWERSLAM!! Cover, TWO!! Takagi survives and Loa can’t believe it! Fans rally up hard as ever for “TA-KA-GI! TA-KA-GI!” as Loa aims from a corner. Takagi stands, Loa runs in, but Takagi blocks the spear to fire off knees!
Loa kicks back, scoops again, but Takagi slips out the back and runs, SLIDING LARIAT! Both men are down and fans fire up again! Loa gets to a corner, Takagi aims from the other, Takagi runs in to clothesline! Takagi then hoists Loa up top, climbs up to join him, and the two brawl up top. Loa throws forearm after forearm but Takagi holds on to headbutt again and again! Takagi brings Loa up to the very top, for a SUPERPLEX! Both men are down but fans fire up again! Takagi still isn’t done, he gets himself up and wants Loa to stand. Loa rises, Takagi runs, PUMPING BOMBER! But Loa stays up!? Takagi brings Loa around to POINT-BLANK PUMPING! But Loa just fires up!
Loa BOOTS, shouts, “Not today!” He runs but into a clothesline! Takagi runs, into a SPEAR! Loa hurries to get Takagi up and in a corner. Loa gets Takagi up but Takagi RANAS, only for Loa to block! Loa swings Takagi back up, but Takagi RANAS out after all! Takagi fires up and runs in to PUMPING BOMBER! Both men are down and fans are thunderous! Takagi fires up and brings Loa around. Pump handle but Loa blocks the lift! Loa CLUBS away, Takagi fires forearms in return. Loa forearms back, Takagi gives Loa more. Loa hits back and eggs Takagi on. Takagi fires off boxing elbows, but Loa just fires another! JAB from Takagi, but Loa HEADBUTTS! Both go down again!
Fans rally back up and Loa roars as he fires himself up. Loa drags Takagi up, scoops him, but Takagi fights and flails to get a dragon sleeper! Takagi puts Loa in the ropes, TAKAGI DRAPING GTR! Then pump handle and torture rack, LAST OF THE DRAGONS!! Cover, Takagi wins!
Winner: Shingo Takagi, by pinfall (gets 2 points; Loa earns 0)
The Dragon still soars! With this fifth win, Takagi’s G1 run is still alive! Will he be the third top champion to make it all the way?
Kota Ibushi VS Great-O-Khan!
The Golden Star is rising while the Dominator is falling! Will Ibushi shine bright as he pursues the top spot in the block? Or will Khan redeem himself in the name of the United Empire?
The bell rings and the two circle. They feel out the grapple as fans build to a rally, “I-BU-SHI!” Khan goes for legs, Ibushi holds him off and they end up on ropes. Khan lets off quickly and cleanly, and the two reset. Ibushi tries testing jabs and then a KICK! Khan got his guard up but he still staggers back. Khan goes to a corner to reset and the two circle again. Khan kicks, Ibushi shrugs it off to give one back. Khan tries a kick and elbow but Ibushi stays back. Ibushi and Khan feel the grapple out, clinch against ropes, and Ibushi pushes Khan away. Fans cheer the exchange as the two reset again. Ibushi and Khan each try testing kicks and strikes but neither backs down.
Ibushi pushes the aggression but Khan kicks back. Ibushi tries a combo but has to guard quick as Khan comes back with his own. They keep working on each other’s guard, then they clinch again. Khan gets a takedown, Ibushi holds off the lateral press so Khan goes after an arm. Ibushi blocks the double wristlock so Khan drives in elbows. Ibushi rolls to avoid the armbar, and now he has the top mount. Ibushi tries but Khan holds off the armbar and they end up in ropes. Khan backs away and fans cheer the exchange. Ibushi stands and dares Khan to bring it. Khan keeps cool and he circles with Ibushi again. They go back to testing the waters with kicks and hands but still can’t get in.
Khan grabs a leg, drags Ibushi down, but Ibushi keeps his hands together as Khan wants the armlock. Khan goes for the lateral press, Ibushi keeps moving around, so Khan tries for the katagatami. Ibushi gets an arm in, slips around and waistlocks but Khan rolls to drop toehold. Ibushi gets up, gets around but Khan slips away. Fans cheer as the two stand off and reset again. Ibushi and Khan circle, Khan tries jabs and Ibushi tries kicks, then they switch it up. Khan throws palm strikes but Ibushi brushes those off, and has his guard up for the back hand. Ibushi tries but Khan catches his backhand to a clinch. They go around and Ibushi gets a judo throw!
Fans cheer but Khan holds off the lateral press. Ibushi tries a top mount but Khan CHOPS in the gap. Ibushi stays on Khan but Khan slips out the back to tie up the legs. Khan then shifts to get the arm but Ibushi rolls, only to end up in a headscissor. Ibushi kicks around, gets up and tries to stack Khan up but Khan throws in some elbows. Ibushi hops over, floats back to a mount but Khan gets a ropebreak. Red Shoes calls for it and Ibushi lets off slowly. Khan lets Ibushi back off and fans cheer the sportsmanship. Ibushi waits on Khan now but Khan uses a leg guard to advance. Khan kicks, gets up and tries again but Ibushi dodges.
They feel things out again, Khan kicks but Ibushi comes back with kicks of his own. The two get in closer, Ibushi wants legs but Khan sprawls and throws body shots from above. They end up on ropes and Khan sits back as Red Shoes calls for the ropebreak. Ibushi lets off and Khan rolls away to get space. Fans cheer, and the chess game begins again. Fans rally as the two circle. Khan tries a sideways stance for his kicks but Ibushi avoids them. Ibushi kicks but Khan catches it to SLAM Ibushi down! Then Khan drops for a HEEL HOOK! Ibushi endures, uses his free foot to scuff Khan but Khan turns things over for more leverage on the leg. Ibushi crawls around and gets the ropebreak!
Khan lets go and gives Ibushi space now, and even dares him to bring it. Ibushi takes a second, and the two approach while kneeling on the mat. Khan tries straight shots but Ibushi guards. Ibushi tries back, Khan throws more, and the two circle around as they stand. Khan ends up in a corner, he stays along the ropes and gets around to get the head and arm! Ibushi stays up, but Khan hits an STO! Ibushi is caught, Khan leans his weight on the katagatami, and fans rally up. Khan thrashes but Ibushi endures and fights around. Ibushi kicks and gets to a ropebreak! Khan puts more pressure on before letting go at 4. Khan then has his knee on Ibushi’s face! Red Shoes counts, Khan walks away at 4.
Khan drags Ibushi and has the double wristlock while sitting on Ibushi’s head. Khan throws some toying body shots and then digs his elbows into Ibushi’s legs. Ibushi endures as Khan shifts the grip for a top wristlock. Khan CHOPS Ibushi, pulls at the arm, but Ibushi fights with his free arm. Khan slaps and chops him around, then stands up to kick Ibushi in the back. Khan throws more kicks but Ibushi eggs him on. Khan kicks again, toys with Ibushi a bit, but Ibushi kicks back from the mat! And KICKS! Ibushi stands to KICK and Khan falls over! Ibushi gets the other leg, ties them up, FIGURE FOUR LEGLOCK! Khan is furious as he flails and Ibushi adds pressure!
Fans rally as Khan grits his teeth. Khan grabs at Ibushi, Ibushi pushes up for more leverage! Khan pries at the legs, tries to turn things over, but Ibushi smacks his own leg to keep the hold on! Khan flounders and reaches, and gets the ropebreak! Fans fire up as Ibushi lets go and drags Khan away from the ropes. Ibushi tries again but Khan boots him away. Khan hits a judo arm-drag, and then prepares his fist. Ibushi stands up, into a STRAIGHT RIGHT!! Both men are down after that iron fist as Khan clutches his leg. Fans rally up, Khan gets to his feet and shows off some footwork. Ibushi stands up into a THRUST KICK! Cover, TWO!
Khan drags Ibushi back up, tackles him back down and rolls to a CALF KILLER! Ibushi throws elbows and forearms and slapping strikes! Khan CHOPS, Ibushi SLAPS, it’s a close range slap fight! Khan ROCKS Ibushi, he falls back, and Khan clamps on to drag Ibushi up. Khan throws body shots and knees as he puts Ibushi in the corner. Khan CLAPS away on Ibushi’s neck but Red Shoes has him let off. Khan lets off with a SLAP, and Ibushi’s expression changes. STRAIGHT SHOT from Ibushi! And fast hands from all sides! SOBAT! Is this KOWAI Ibushi?! “YAO~!” BOMAYE!! Cover, TWO!! Khan survives but Ibushi fires up with the fans!
Ibushi waistlocks and drags Khan up. Ibushi full nelsons but Khan breaks it to victory roll and KNEEBAR! Ibushi endures as Khan pulls and twists the ankle! Ibushi pounds the mat as he crawls, but Khan gets up to shift to a deep ANKLE LOCK! Ibushi still endures and fans rally up! Ibushi stands and ENZIGURIS! Khan staggers, Ibushi gets up to STRAIGHT SHOT! Khan comes back, into a KNEE!! Ibushi is down but Khan flounders about and the fans are thunderous! Ibushi sits up and vows to end it here! Ibushi gets the wrists, Khan has a bloody nose, KAMI- NO! Khan avoids the knee, reels Ibushi in, but Ibushi wrenches to ROUNDHOUSE! Cover, TWO!!
Ibushi can’t believe how close that was! But he brings the kneepad down now and he drags Khan back up. Ibushi has the wrists, KAMI- IRON CLAW?! The claw blocks the knee?! Khan lifts Ibushi by his leg but Ibushi ENZIGURIS with the other! Ibushi fires up again, drags Khan back up and BARE KNEE KAMIGOYES!! Ibushi falls on the cover, Ibushi wins!!
Winner: Kota Ibushi, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Khan earns 0)
Khan may be great, but on this night, the Golden Star is greater! Khan’s chances of being a contender are dashed, but can he be a spoiler to the Dragon in the next round?
As for Ibushi, he catches his breath and gets the mic. “Great-O-Khan! You’re a fun one. Everyone, that was fun, right?” Ibushi tells “O-Khan” that he was glad to see Oka back in the ring again. But Ibushi just earned his sixth victory in this year’s G1, and is that much closer to his fourth finals appearance in a row. “And like I always say… Whatever happens, I won’t back down, I won’t lose, and I won’t betray you!” The Golden Star is staying true to his words, but can he keep winning in the homestretch?
Here are the current A Block standings!
Kota Ibushi: 6-2, 12 points
Kenta: 5-2, 10 points
Zack Sabre Jr: 5-2, 10 points
Shingo Takagi: 5-2, 10 points
Tomohiro Ishii: 4-3, 8 points [ELIMINATED] [won special singles bye]
Toru Yano: 4-3, 8 points [ELIMINATED]
Great-O-Khan: 4-4, 8 points [ELIMINATED]
Tanga Loa: 2-5, 4 points [ELIMINATED]
Yujiro Takahashi: 2-5, 4 points [ELIMINATED]
My Thoughts:
Another very good round for the G1 Climax, with ZSJ VS Kenta being a great match before intermission again. Kenta winning was quite the surprise but it now adds to the battle for the block. Yano and Yujiro was pretty good and that finish was hilarious, but of course both guys are out so this was more an entertaining filler. Takagi VS Loa was great, as Loa again gets to really bust out some stuff, but of course Takagi wins to keep things going towards him making history. Ibushi had an awesome match with Khan, especially with the use of martial arts training and technical wrestling throughout. Ibushi wins to keep his own historic streak possible, and gets his No Naito Bye so round 8 is all about seeing who from Kenta, ZSJ and Takagi loses.
My Score: 9.1/10
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London calling to the champion crowns!
SmackDown brings gold to London as LA Knight defends his WWE US Championship and The Street Profits defend their tag team titles! Will the landscape change this close to WrestleMania?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly; The Profits win and retain the titles.
- Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice w/ Chelsea Green; The Secret Her-vice wins.
- WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman; Braun wins, by disqualification, and Knight retains the title.
- Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab; Charlotte wins.
- Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.
- Jimmy Uso VS The Miz; Jimmy wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes is here!
We follow The American Nightmare as walks to gorilla, then through the curtain, and London sings along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, says hello to fans along the ramp, and then we get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro. Cody goes to the ring, grabs a mic, then kneels down to kiss the WWE logo on the mat. The fans continue to sing along all the way to the end, “I AM MY KINGDOM!” The fans then cheer, and Cody holds up the belt to fire them up even more! The fans now sing for “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and he soaks it in. The fans cheer again as Cody smiles, and he finally says, “So, London~! Whaddya wanna talk about?”
The fans chant “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Cody hears that dueling, and he smiles again. The song of “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” returns, then they cheer. Cody says, “At WrestleMania 41, I will be facing John Cena…” The fans boo, but Cody says, “I will be facing John Cena as he goes to break the record and win 17. But that is WrestleMania 41. In just a few nights, I will be standing face to face with John Cena in this very same city, in this very same arena.” The fans cheer that, but then here comes Randy Orton! Now the fans sing along with Voices as The Viper heads to the ring. Orton also high-fives fans before he joins Cody.
Orton grabs a mic, paces while the fans keep singing on their own, and then the fans cheer. Orton says he’s not really the sentimental type, but for Cody and for London, screw it. The fans chant “R K O! R K O!” and Orton tells Cody, “Look at you. Look at who you are now, the man you are now. Look at where he came from.” The fans cheer and sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and Orton says he remembers a Cody in his early 20s, just breaking into the business. Cody was busting his ass harder than anyone else. He wasn’t exactly happy, and in fact, he was frustrated. But Cody was man enough, smart enough, to know he needed to grow, and that he couldn’t grow in the WWE.
Cody wasn’t exactly treated fairly in the WWE, so Cody left the WWE! That took some big ass balls to do what he did! Cody changed the business singlehandedly, and everyone in the back knows it. And Orton appreciates Cody for it. But then Cody came back, as they all knew one day he would. And the industry has been changed forever since the day Cody came back to the WWE. Cody is a bit teary eyed as Orton says Cody’s still the same guy, he just did what he set out to do, and he grew. Orton teases he would sing along with the fans, but the fans might leave. The fans again sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!”
Orton asks if they remember when Cody Rhodes faced Seth Rollins in Hell in a Cell. The fans cheer because they do. Orton says that was impressive, and even impossible, as he started with a partially torn pec and then ended with a fully torn pec! His body changed all kinds of shades of purple that Orton’s never seen on a human body. The pain he must have been in. Cody persevered not just for himself. Maybe not even at all for Cody. It was not even for his family legacy; it was for each and every single fan out there! Then Cody went on to WrestleMania, beat Roman Reigns and finished the story!
But there’s always another story, isn’t there? And Cody’s right in the middle of one. Cody is in charge of his legacy, and it is a privilege for Orton to watch Cody take control of it. Ticket sales have been up, there’s more intrigue around the world, and listen to the people! It is 99.9% all because of Cody! The fans cheer that, and of course they sing. Orton says what he’s trying to say is a long-winded version of he respects Cody, loves him, and is very, very proud of him. The fans cheer that! Orton then says, “But… But now it is time for WrestleMania.” They both look to the sign, and Orton says he can guarantee Cody that Orton will kick Kevin Owens so hard in the head…!
Orton can just feel it already! He forgets how many days are left, but he can’t wait to remove Kevin’s head from his shoulders. And Orton knows Cody will enter champion, exit champion, but not before he beats the holy hell outta Cena all up and down the Vegas strip! But after all the smoke clears and the dust settles, just like Orton wants Number 17, there will come a time when Orton will want Number 15. But Orton won’t kick Cody in the balls like a coward. Orton will look Cody in the eye because he respects Cody, is proud of Cody, and sees him as an equal. Orton will look Cody in the eye and tell him that he’s coming for the title.
The fans cheer but wait! Drew McIntyre is here! The fans cheer the Scottish Terminator as he steps out on stage, mic in hand, and has a wry smile on his face as he looks at the ring. Drew waves as the fans now sing, “OH~ Drew McIntyre~!” Drew says, “Isn’t this wonderful? A couple of nepo babies having a love fest in the middle of the ring> It makes me absolutely sick. What’d you just say, Randy? if Cody gets through Cena at WrestleMania, you’re coming for that title? What exactly have you done since that big comeback to justify that title match? Aside be Randy Orton. The only big moment I can remember is you being on the shelf for months and months and months.
“People like to make jokes about it, but more people talk about my five-minute-45-second title reign than your entire comeback so far! So get to the back of the line, sunshine! As for you, Cody, you should’ve listened to me. But you shunned me. You attacked me. Everybody should’ve listened to me about John Cena, but they didn’t. And the next night, he kicked you right in the twig ‘n’ berries, proving me right as usual. And the main event of WrestleMania should be Cody Rhodes VS The UK’s only ever world champion, Drew McIntyre!” Fans do like that idea. But sadly, it’s not, because of that guyliner wearing Temu Undertaker, Damian Priest!
Drew wants to talk about what is happening. And what’s gonna happen! Drew steps up to the ring while fans sing for him again. Drew says it will not be Randy that takes the title from Cody, should he get through Cena; it’ll be McIntyre. The fans cheer, but Orton says they were trying to have a moment. Can Drew just cut the crap already? Drew says okay, sure. He’ll tell the truth, because that’s all he ever does. The truth is, Kevin might have a point! If those Voices are talking to Orton again, then they know Drew very, very well. And he’s thinking, “My God, Randy looks great! Absolutely jacked! On the outside.”
On the inside, that back is hanging by a thread. And if Orton provokes McIntyre, McIntyre will break him. And as for Cody- Cody kicks Drew and UPPERCUTS him! The fans fire up, and Orton R- NO, Drew gets away! The fans boo, but the battlelines are drawn! Even if Cody makes it out of the frying pan that is Las Vegas, it’ll be into the fire that is these contenders waiting in line! Will the American Nightmare be ready for whoever comes for the crown?
WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly!
Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins are finally golden again, but it’s time to put the titles on the line already! And while they’re ready for the grind, they’re up against the hometown heroes! Will the Profits still be up in the O2? Or will Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say #YESBOY to a new reign of their own?
The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really wants the smoke!
The teams sort out and Kit starts with Dawkins. They tie up, Dawkins headlocks, but Kit powers up and out. Dawkins runs Kit over, the fans fire up, and Dawkins fires hands on Kit in the corner! The fans rally for Pretty Deadly, Dawkins whips Kit to a corner, but Elton takes that bump! Kit CLOBBERS Dawkins, then tags Elton! Atomic drop into DROPKICK! Ford runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Dawkins whips, Elton reverses, and then Elton hurdles so Kit can DDT! The fans fire up with Pretty Deadly while the Profits bail out. Pretty Deadly has control while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Elton is right on Dawkins as he gets in, and UPPERCUTS him to the corner. Elton clinches Dawkins for another UPPERCUT! Tag to Kit, and Elton RAMS into Dawkins so Kit can UPPERCUT! Dawkins flops over, Kit drags him up to wrench the arm. Kit whips, Dawkins reverses, but Kit grabs ropes. Kit ELBOWS Dawkins, DECKS Ford, but Dawkins CLOBBERS Kit! The ref reprimands but Dawkins RAMS Kit into the corner again and again! The ref counts, Dawkins fires fast hands, then he tags in Ford. Ford says, “SUCK IT!” then he KICKS Kit! Ford scuffs Kit, then drags him to a cover, TWO!
Ford keeps Kit down with a facelock, but Kit endures the grind. Kit fights up, fires body shots, but Ford whips him away. Kit sunset flips! Ford rolls through, and PENALTY KICKS! Ford mocks Elton with the Scott Hall fingers, and the ref has to keep Elton back. Ford drags Kit up, tags Dawkins, and the Profits mug Kit. Dawkins CLUBS Kit down, then stalks him. Dawkins stays between Kit and Elton, then whips Kit into the Profits’ corner. CYCLONE- NO, Kit dodges! Ford tags in, he keeps Kit from Elton now, but Kit slips out of the suplex! Kit fakes high to go low, hot tag to Elton! Elton rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT!
Elton kicks and whips Ford to a corner, then UPPERCUTS! Elton whips the other way, UPPERCUTS again, and then does it again! Elton adds to the hattrick with a lift, Ford says a quick prayer before the SUPLEX! Ford flounders, gets to his feet, but Elton dodges to springboard and FLYING UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! Ford stays in this, but Elton stays on him. SmackDown returns to single picture and fans rally for Pretty Deadly as Elton gives Ford a back suplex. Ford lands out, waistlocks, but Elton switches and shoves Ford. Ford CLOBBERS Elton in return! Ford is also dazed but he covers, ONE!
Kit reaches out, Elton and Ford both crawl, hot tags to Kit and Dawkins! The fans fire up as Dawkins wrenches Kit, underhooks and SILENCER! Dawkins Electric Chair Lifts Kit, Ford climbs, but Kit slips free! Kit shoves Dawkins into Ford! Ford falls to the floor, but Dawkins ENZIGIRIS Kit! Elton tags in, and Kit LARIATS Dawkins! Pretty Deadly combine for DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Dawkins survives and the Profits are a bit unsure of what to do next. Dawkins crawls to a corner, Elton runs up, but Dawkins dodges! Elton hits buckles and Dawkins TOSSES Kit, then Dawkins hits a SKY HIGH on Elton!
Dawkins hurries to tag Ford and Ford climbs up! But Kit pushes Elton out of the way! Kit takes FROM THE HEAVESN, and Elton ghost pins Ford! TWO!! Ford escapes, and he ROCKS Elton! Elton UPPERCUTS Ford! Dawkins sneaks a tag, Ford SUPERKICKS! POUNCE SAIDO COMBO!! Cover, KIT BREAKS IT! The fans fire up while all four men are down! The teams go to opposite ends, then they all stand up in the corners. They all roar, all run in, and Kit SPEARS Ford while Elton FLYING UPPERCUTS Dawkins!! London is thunderous, and Kit hurries to tag in! Pretty Deadly gets Dawkins up, for SPILT MILK!! Cover, FORD BREAKS IT!
The fans are shocked, as is Elton, but Ford saves this for his team! “This is Awesome!” as Ford runs up and Elton TOSSES him out! Now DRY MARTI- NO! Dawkins doesn’t accept the second serving, and he DUMPS Kit out! Kit skins the cat while Dawkins DECKS Elton! Dawkins catches Kit to an Electric Chair! Ford rises, DOOMSDAY BLOCKBUSTER!! Cover, Profits win!
Winners: The Street Profits, by pinfall (still WWE Tag Team Champions)
Pretty Deadly put up a heroic fight, but the hometown heroes could not capture the gold. Dawkins & Ford hold onto the gold, will this be the strongest the Profits have ever been?
Kayden & Katana talk with Zelina Vega.
Carter & Chance know La Muneca got screwed over by The Green Administration. Chelsea thinks she’s untouchable, but someone’s gonna stop them eventually. Well, speaking of, Alba Fyre leads the way in as she & Piper Niven “scope the perimeter.” There’s one small threat. They frisk the “miniscule” threat, but nothing they haven’t dealt with before. Chelsea struts in and says, “The Eagle has landed~!” Zelina says she is so glad the “Bootleg Men in Black” have crashed the party. Now, yeah, they all know she’s small. But clearly this small “threat” is a big threat to Chelsea’s title reign. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have taken all three of them to beat her.
KC Squared agree with that. How about tonight, we see what happens when the odds are even? Chelsea says that’s fine, because Agents P & A are ready. The Secret Her-vice has been given their next mission, but will they be able to crash the party? Or will the party crash them?
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice!
SmackDown returns and The Green Administration makes their entrance. The teams sort out, Alba starts against Katana, and the two tie up. Alba KNEES low, CLUBS Katana down, then fireman’s carries. Katana fights free, tags Kayden, and they KICK, double whip, and then trip Alba up for the basement DROPKICK! Katana adds a slingshot SENTON, Kayden covers, TWO! Kayden tags Katana, they double whip Alba to a corner, then Kayden runs in. Alba DUMPS Kayden out, ROCKS Katana, and she tags Piper! Katana arm-drags Alba out, then goes out to run up. Kayden gives her a boost, Katana CROSSBODIES Alba down!
The fans fire up, but Piper goes up and out?! CANNONBALL and down goes KC Squared! Piper salutes Chelsea and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Kayden rallies on Alba while the fans rally up. Kayden fires up, runs in and whips, but Alba reverses. Kayden wheelbarrows, victory rolls, then SUPERKICKS! Kayden fires up again but the fans are torn. Kayden runs in at Alba to BOOT WASH her against the ropes! Chelsea protests, Kayden kicks at her, then Kayden springboards for a LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Alba survives, Kayden whips, but Alba KICKS back! Tag to Piper, but Kayden jackknife bridges Alba! The ref explains bout the tag, Piper runs up, but Kayden moves! The SENTON hits Alba! Piper panics, Kayden tags Katana!
Katana goes up onto Kayden’s shoulders, VICTORY ROLL LAUNCHER, but Piper catches Katana! Katana fires hands, BOOTS, and then hurries to go up again. Kayden ROCKS Piper, and fireman’s carries?! SAMOAN DROP! Kayden then gives Katana the boost, for the KEG STAND SPLASH!! Cover, ALBA BREAKS IT! Kayden runs up on Alba to BOOT her out! Katana gives Kayden the boost now, SUPER CROSSBODY onto Alba! Kayden hurries to tag back in, and she brings Piper up. Piper swings, Kayden dodges and SUPERKICKS! Katana goes up, Piper staggers over that way, but Chelsea distracts the ref!
The fans are torn as Alba grabs Katana. Katana kicks Alba down, chases Chelsea off, but Piper sends Kayden into her! Piper scoops to PIPER DRIVER!! Cover, Secret Her-vice wins!
Winner: The Secret Her-vice, by pinfall
The Women’s US Champion helps her team, and now they all mug Kayden & Katana! But here comes Zelina! Vega runs down the ramp, CLOBBERS Alba, and then she gets in the ring! Zelina tilt-o-whirl DDTS Piper! And she KNEES Alba off the apron! But Chelsea CLOBBERS Zelina! Chelsea fires up, the UK is oddly with her, and she chicken wings Zeina. But Zelina fights free to fire forearms and body shots! And a BACK ELBOW! Zelina reels Chelsea in, CODE- SUPERKICK from Alba! SENTON from Piper! The Green Administration is just too much for Zelina to fight against alone! But can she, Kayden & Katana find a way to turn things around?
WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman!
Did the Mega Star just get this title back from Shinsuke Nakamura? YEAH! Did he help the Monster of All Monsters fight off Solo Sikoa’s rouge bloodline? YEAH! And now, does he have to defend this title against the monster he just helped? YEAH!! But will Knight still reign this close to WrestleMania? Or will Braun #GetTheseHands back on a championship?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and it’s time for Knight’s biggest challenge, YEAH!
The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two circle. The two tie up, and Braun SHOVES Knight away. Knight comes back, Braun SHOVES him down again! Knight gets up, gets around, and he headlocks. Braun powers up to back suplex, but Knight lands out! Knight tries but Braun’s too big to suplex! Braun ELBOWS Knight, storms up on him, but Knight fires haymakers! Knight whips, Braun reverses, but Knight KICKS back! Knight runs, but Braun HIP TOSSES! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this, but Braun brings him up. Braun puts Knight in a corner, CHOPS, then runs, for a SPLASH! Knight sputters along ropes, Braun keeps moving, but Knight DUMPS him out!
The fans fire up as Knight then WRECKS Braun with a dropkick! Knight keeps moving, and he WRECKS Braun again! The fans fire up with Knight, but then Braun BOOTS Knight down! The fans are torn but Braun stands tall as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Braun puts Knight back in the ring. The fans cheer as Knight KICKS Braun! Knight tries again, but Braun’s still too big to back suplex! Braun CLUBS Knight, then runs in at the corner. Knight BOOTS Braun, goes up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Knight and Braun rise back up, and Knight dodges a shot to JAB! Then he dodges to JAB! JAB! JAB! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” But Braun KNEES low! Braun scoops, Knight slips free, and Knight RAMS Braun into buckles! Then the BACK SUPLEX! The fans fire up and Knight rises again! Knight spells it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO!
Braun has plenty left in the tank but the fans rally for Knight. Knight stands Braun up to kick low, but Braun THROWS Knight away! Knight rises, and Braun LARIATS Knight up and out! The fans fire up as Braun rips the shirt! Braun gets on the track, and he runs in, STROWMAN EXPRESS MEETS JACOB FATU!! The Samoan Werewolf strikes Braun down!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by disqualification; LA Knight retains the title
The fans boo as Jacob now goes after Knight! He just ruined what was becoming a great match, but Jacob fires HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT on Braun! SAMOAN DROP onto the desk!! The desk doesn’t budge, but Braun might’ve been broken in half! The UK fires up for Fatu as he puts Braun in the ring! Jacob fires more HEADBUTTS, then HEADBUTTS away on Braun in the corner! The fans sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE, FATU~, FATU~!” Jacob runs corner to corner, but Knight kicks him first! Knight fires haymakers, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Jacob denies the BFT to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! And then HIP ATTACK for Braun anyway!
Jacob keeps going, HIP ATTACK for Braun again! Jacob throws off his jacket, glares at Braun, and he runs in for a third HIP ATTACK! Braun flounders into the drop zone, so Jacob goes up, up, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Direct hit on Braun, but the fans want that “ONE MORE TIME!” Jacob obliges, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! The Samoan Werewolf just tore up #OneBigSOB and LA Knight, will there be no stopping him from taking the United States Championship?
Backstage interview with Jimmy Uso.
Jackie Redmond is with #BigJim, and she says that while she knew WWE was going global this month, she did not know they’d get the slap heard ’round the world! Jimmy says he’d do it again, and he’ll slap Gunther as many times as he needs! Jimmy knows Jey is up in his own head, doubt is creeping on him. But just because Jey’s 0-3 against Gunther doesn’t mean Gunther’s unbeatable! The Ring General CAN be got! Jimmy’s going to Raw this Monday, he will bust Gunther’s ass, Jey will go to Mania and bust Gunther’s ass to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. And then they leave Las Vegas just like this: YEET!
Jimmy heads out, but then The Miz & Carmelo Hayes walk by. Miz is mocking Jimmy’s words, and he asks excuse me. Miz says it’s just funny that suddenly, Jimmy is a tough guy, even though for most of his career, he’s been “The Other Uso.” Doesn’t Jimmy get it? Jimmy and Jey are career sidekicks while Gunther is a main character. Gunther is the lead, neither Jimmy nor Jey can beat him. And here’s another thing: The Usos are just blips on the trailer that was Roman Reigns’ Bloodline. Melo says Jimmy & Jey are stuck outside the club, they can’t even get in.
Miz says as a former WWE Champion, a former WrestleMania main eventer, Jimmy will never know what it is to carry this industry. And after this year’s WrestleMania, neither will Jey. Oh, and by the way, if Jimmy ever slapped Miz like that, Jimmy would still be on the ground. Jimmy feints the slap and Miz freaks out. Jimmy says it may be him and Gunther on Monday, but he’ll holler at Aldis real quick so it can be Jimmy VS Miz here tonight. Yeah, YEET! Jimmy heads out, Melo says he thought Miz was gonna do something about the slap. Will Miz have to do something about running his mouth before he gets his teeth kicked in?
Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga find Jacob Fatu backstage.
Solo asks Jacob what the Hell he was doing out there. Jacob goes out there alone without saying a thing to them? Jacob says he ain’t gotta say nothing to nobody! Matter fact, didn’t Solo not tap in with him last week? Tama says, “But Jacob,” only for Jacob to say, “But nothing, Tama!” Solo wants Jacob to lower his tone, but Jacob says okay. Let him be very clear with them. When it comes to Braun Strowman, Jacob WILL be the last man standing. Y’all better get in where you fit in, cuz that US title? Oh, Jacob’s bringing it home to the family. And he will do it with them, or without them! Yadada mean? Fatu heads out, is the Samoan Werewolf no longer following Solo?
Naomi speaks.
“I mean… How did we even get here? I don’t know. One thing that I do know is that I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. So Bianca, what makes you think that my attack on Jade was anything different from me doing the right thing? When I sit here and I think about all that I’ve sacrificed, all that I’ve given, and that’s what really breaks my heart. Because through all of that, I’m made to be the bad one in this situation. I just don’t understand, how does Jade come in outta nowhere and take my place with you? I want you to ask yourself this, Bianca. Who inspired you? Hmm?
“Who’s inspired women over the last decade? Who’s always had your back from day one of you being here? Me. Not Jade. Hmm. But you know what? What I’ve learned through all of this: You teach people how to treat you. And I’m done with being treated as a third wheel. I’m done being pushed to the side, I’m done with being too nice, I’m done with being undervalued, underutilized, underappreciated! So moving forward, hmm… Moving forward, here’s my message to you, Jade. If you continue to be in my way, I strongly advise you to proceed with caution.” The Glow shows her dark side, but will the storm be moved?
Nick Aldis meets with Jade Cargill.
Speaking of, the SmackDown General Manager understands things have been rather difficult for her as of late. Jade says she’s been trying to get her hands on Naomi for the past few weeks, now where is she? No one has seen her all day, so as far as anyone knows, Naomi’s not here. Well, when Jade catches Naomi, it’s on sight. Jade leaves, B-Fab & Michin are there. They let her know that what Naomi did to her was straight trash, totally uncalled for behavior. And after Jade gets her hands on Naomi, she’ll handle that business. Jade agrees. Mia says they’ve all got business to handle. Jade’s got Naomi, and Mia’s gonna get Charlotte for messing with her girl, B.
B-Fab says Naomi’s got what’s coming to her: no sympathy, no regrets. Jade, just do what you gotta do. Oh, she will. Jade also wishes Mia luck tonight. Mia & B-Fab head out, will the Head Baddie in Charge make the Queen bow down in London?
The darkness approaches.
“You are as I was. As I am, you will be.” The shadows are starting to take shape, but is SmackDown about to fade to black?
Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab!
The Queen looks down on everyone, so it’s no surprise that everyone else wants to take her down. Charlotte may have checked off B-Fab, but will the HBIC be a much different story? Or will Charlotte only sharpen her edge before facing Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania?
WAIT! NAOMI ATTACKS B-FAB & MICHIN! Naomi drags Mia up for a FACEBUSTER! Naomi rains down fists, the ref reprimands and the fans boo, but Naomi tells the ref to back off. Naomi then BOOTS B-Fab off the apron! Naomi goes out after B-Fab to THRWO her into barriers! Naomi SLAPS B-Fab, tells her to stay down, but B-Fab gets up. Naomi fires hands, then she SMACKS B-Fab off the desk! Naomi rains down fists, but here comes Jade! Jade hurries down the ramp, she runs around the way, but Naomi runs away! Jade makes sure B-Fab is okay, but refs have to help her to the back. And what of Mia? Will she even be able to compete?
Charlotte makes her entrance, not really caring about what Naomi just did to Mia. But that means she also crosses paths with Jade. The fans like the look of this stare down, but Jade and Charlotte both let the other slide. Charlotte gets her pyro, and it seems she’ll still get her match. Will Mia be little more than an appetizer now?
The bell rings, and Charlotte BOOTS Mia down! Cover, TWO! Mia stays in this and the fans rally up. Charlotte just struts around while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Charlotte has Mia down with a chinlock, but the fans rally up. Mia fights up, fires body shots, and she then blocks a shot to ROCK Charlotte! Mia ROCKS Charlotte again and again, then reels her in for a TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Mia hurries to cover, TWO! Mia drags Charlotte up, wrenches, but Charlotte says no to Da Feet! BIG back suplex! Mia stagger sup, Charlotte whips her, but Mia reverses! Charlotte goes up and out, BOOTS her away, then slingshots in and rolls Mia! Mia rolls through and BUZZSAWS! Mia runs corner to corner, but Charlotte avoids the cannonball!
Charlotte YAKUZA KICKS Mia down, then fires herself up! The fans “WOO~!” as Charlotte has Mia in the drop zone,. Charlotte steps on her, goes up the corner, but Mia gets underneath her! SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO! Charlotte survives and Mia is shocked! Mia nods as the fans rally back up, and she brings Charlotte up. But Charlotte ROCKS Mia! Mia SOBATS, PELES, and then runs to PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! Charlotte stays in this, Mia grows frustrated, but the fans continue to rally. Mia uses that energy to stay focused, and she stalks Charlotte to waistlock. But Charlotte ELBOWS her away!
Charlotte CHOPS, and CHOPS, and CHOSP! Charlotte winds up, and she CHOPS again! Mia sputters, but then she dodges the boot! Charlotte is caught, and Mia hits a SAIDO! Charlotte flounders to a corner, the fans rally behind Mia, and Mia runs up, CANNONBALL! Mia hurries to wrench and EAT- NO, Charlotte shoves Mia away! Charlotte gets under, back suplexes, but Mia lands out! EAT DA FEET!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Charlotte’s long legs help her survive by a literal foot! Mia is beside herself while Charlotte bails out. Mia storms after Charlotte, runs up, but Charlotte dodges! Mia’s kick hits steel steps!
Mia hobbles away, goes to the apron, but Charlotte CHOP BLOCKS the bad leg out! Charlotte grabs Mia’s leg, drops a KNEE on the knee, but fans chant, “We Want Tiffy!” Charlotte just steps through, FIGURE FOUR, into FIGURE EIGHT!! Mia taps, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
Charlotte got more of a fight out of Mia than expected, but she still won. Will The Queen be more than ready to reign again after WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.
Jackie Redmond is with the WWE Women’s Champion and says Charlotte certainly looks confident. Let’s be real, Charlotte came at Tiff pretty hard. It got a lot of people talking. Tiff says yes, people talk. And Charlotte sure loves to hear herself talk. Ten years into the business and Charlotte is still so insecure that she can’t let a “rookie” get a word out. But last week, Tiff did learn something: She learned that walking into WrestleMania, she isn’t the one with something to lose. Truth is, if Tiff loses, then she lost to the great Charlotte Flair, as just a 25-year-old rookie with one year into SmackDown.
But if Charlotte loses… Well, then she lost to an “undeserving, delusional, unoriginal, backflip doing, blonde-hair-having, little girl.” Did she get it all? And Tiff can’t wait to hear the look on Charlotte’s face when they hear the words, “And STILL!” Then maybe Charlotte will finally shut up for the sake of literally everyone! They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and Tiff will make damn sure what stays is Charlotte’s massive ego. Tiff is walking into and out of Mania as the WWE Women’s Champion. Tootles! Tiff heads out, will it still be #TiffyTime after WrestleMania?
Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre!
The Viper told Cody how proud he was, but also how he wants the next shot after John Cena. The Scottish Terminator took offense to that, and basically said he is taking that shot instead. Will this match be an unofficial #1 contender’s match between these two former world champions?
SmackDown returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans sing, “OH~, Drew McIntyre~!” and chant “R K O! R K O!” Drew and Orton circle, tie up, and they go around in a deadlock. Drew powers Orton to a corner, but Orton headlocks back. Drew powers up and out, then he runs Orton over! Orton hurries to ropes and Drew mockingly asks, “How’s the back feel, Randy?” Orton stands, he and Drew reset, and the fans duel some more. Drew calls for a knuckle lock, Orton accepts, but then Drew kicks low! Drew bumps Orton off buckles, then climbs up, but he panders for too long and Orton YANKS him down!
The fans fire up as Orton climbs now! Orton rains down fists, and the fans count to nine. Orton hops down, brings Drew around, and POSTS him for ten! Drew tumbles out of the ring, Orton goes out after him, and they’re by the desk! But Drew kicks Orton first and SMACKS him off the desk! Drew clears the desk, and he brings Orton up for the DESK- NO, Orton fights free! Orton turns things around, DESK BACK SUPLEX for Drew! The fans fire up while Orton leaves Drew behind, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew writhes on the floor, but Orton goes out to fetch him! Orton brings Drew around, UPPERCUTS him, then says one more time! DESK BACK SUPLEX! Drew writhes as that desk stays standing! Orton grins, refreshes the ring count, and then he storms up on Drew. Drew pokes Orton in the eye! Drew POSTS Orton now, then brings him around to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP into barriers! Orton slumps down, and Drew also grits his teeth from that double-edged attack, but Drew fires up as he stands tall. Drew drags Orton up, puts him in the ring, then stalks Orton. Drew looms over Orton, and HIP DROPS him!
Orton sputters, Drew says one more time, and he winds up for the HIP DROP! Drew paces around Orton, says maybe one more time, and he pretends he can’t hear the fans. Drew winds up again, but Orton flips over! Hip drop meets kneecaps! And then Orton pokes Drew in the eyes! The ref reprimands but Orton rises up. Drew sputters and flounders, Orton ROCKS him with a right! Drew ROCKS Orton back! Drew storms up, Orton kicks low, but Drew fires another haymaker! The haymakers go back and forth, Orton gets the edge, but Drew GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTTS! Cover, TWO! Drew clamps onto Orton with an armlock!
SmackDown returns to single picture and the fans rally up. Orton fights up, pries at the chinbar, and then throws right hands! Drew CHOPS Orton in return! The fans “WOO~” and Drew winds up. Drew ROCKS Orton again, eggs him on, then CHOPS again! Drew shoves Orton to a corner, CHOPS again, then dares Orton to fight! Drew whips corner to corner, but Orton comes back to LARIAT! And LARIAT! Drew swings, Orton dodges, SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up as Orton stalks Drew to the apron. Drew HOTSHOTS Orton first! Drew then runs in, but Orton puts him through the ropes!
The fans fire up as Orton has Drew for the DRAPING DDT! The fans fire up for Orton, and Orton hears those voices! Drew rises, but then Orton spots KEVIN OWENS! The Prizefighter is on the ramp, Orton glares at him, but then he turns around into a CLAYMORE!! Cover, DREW WINS!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
Kevin’s mere presence costs Orton, and now Drew has a huge win propelling him down the Road to WrestleMania! As for Orton, Kevin drags him out of the ring, SMACKS him off the desk, and then climbs up to join him! The fans boo but Kevin and his hot pink sneakers have Orton in position, but Orton slips free and TRIPS Kevin up! Kevin hits the desk then the floor! Orton staggers around, the fans rally behind him, and Orton stalks Kevin to the corner of the barriers. Orton lines up the shot! Orton runs in, but Kevin jumps over barriers! Security is there to stop Orton from pursuing, so Kevin runs away into the night!
The fans boo, but The Viper was that close! Will Orton be able to strike Kevin down and completely take him out?
Fire, thunder, smoke…
The force of nature is drawing ever closer. And he’s ready to fly! REY FENIX arrives next Friday Night SmackDown!
Jimmy Uso VS The Miz!
#BigJim gave Gunther a piece of his mind and a mark on his cheek, but it seems not everyone got the message. Will the Hollywood A-lister soon star in the Uso Penitentiary? Or will he prove Jimmy is NOT ready for a world champion level opponent?
The bell rings and the two tie up. Jimmy powers Miz to a corner, Miz turns things around, and the ref counts. Miz takes a swing, Jimmy ducks it to CHOP! And CHOP! Miz shoves Jimmy back, then runs up, but Jimmy TACKLES Miz! Jimmy rains down fists, Miz shoves him away to go to ropes, but Jimmy storms back up. Miz ELBOWS Jimmy away, then runs back up, only for Jimmy to LARIAT him down! The fans fire up while Jimmy storms up on Miz. Jimmy CHOPS Miz, has him in a corner, then whips corner to corner. Miz reverses, Jimmy goes up and over, then UPPERCUTS! Miz staggers back to ropes, but Jimmy is right on him.
Jimmy whips, Miz reverses and kitchen sink knees! Then basement BOOTS! The fans fire up, Miz scowls, and Miz KNEES Jimmy in the back again and again. Miz stalks Jimmy to the ropes now, and he CHOKES Jimmy! The ref counts, Miz runs, and Miz STRADDLE ATTACKS! The fans boo, but Miz runs again. Jimmy ducks the boot, then dodges a lariat! Jimmy runs up to LARIAT Miz up and out! The fans fire up and Jimmy builds speed, but Miz runs away! Jimmy smirks as he goes out the side, and UPPERCUTS Miz over the barriers! Jimmy makes sure Gunther knows he’s coming to get him, but SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and both men are down. Miz and Jimmy crawl, and Jimmy pounds the mat. The fans rally, Jimmy rises and runs up to LARIAT! And LARIAT! And mule kick! Jimmy then UPPERCUTS Miz, dodges a lariat, then SAMOAN DROPS! The fans fire up, Jimmy goes to the corner, “UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs in, but Miz puts him on the apron! Jimmy UPPERCUTS again! Jimmy climbs, leaps, but Miz gets under! Miz then waistlocks, ripcords, and MOVIE MAKER! Fans boo that blatant parody, but Miz full nelsons! Jimmy drops, victory rolls, TWO! Miz has the cover, TWO! Miz hurries to BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally up as Jimmy survives! Miz stalks Jimmy, the fans rally up more, and Miz fires a KICK! And then another KICK! The fans say “YES! YES! YES!” to the It Kicks, but then Miz winds up. Jimmy ducks the buzzsaw, Miz blocks the superkick, but the DRAGON WHIP connects! Miz rebounds to B-MOVIE KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! The parodies don’t get it done, but Miz still has his original work to fall back on. The fans rally for “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz shoves Jimmy down, then springboards, but into a SUPERKICK! Jimmy hurries up top, for the USO SPLASH!! Cover, Jimmy wins!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Miz may be a movie star, but Big Jim’s the one winning this main event! Jimmy then borrows Joe Tessitore’s headset to call out Gunther! He’s coming after dat ass on Monday! Gunther won’t be the ring general, he will be “Private Gunther,” and he will salute Big Jim! Uh, uh, YEET! Will Jimmy be the one making examples out of the World Heavyweight Champion? Or will everything come crashing down when Gunther gets his turn?
Drew McIntyre returns backstage.
And he says hey to Lewis Capaldi, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, and also a big fan of Drew’s. They’re ready to have a good night in the pub, but Jackie Redmond walks over to congratulate him on the win tonight. She was hoping to get some thoughts on that victory and what happened with Orton and Kevin. Drew says it’s alright, this is what happens. He doesn’t care about anybody else’s business, but no one gets away with screwing him over. And when no one meddles in his business, he wins! Drew called out Priest, where is he? Priest doesn’t have the balls! So time to get mad in the pubs, everyone’s invited!
Drew turns the corner, but PRIEST IS THERE! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the door, then throws him into road cases! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the trunk of a car, and then again! Or since it’s London, “the boot.” The driver complains, but Priest BODY SLAMS that guy through a table! Drew comes back to KNEE Priest low, SMACK him off the trunk, and then off the side! They go to the hood, or bonnet for UK. Drew drags Priest up, but Priest CLAWS Drew’s eyes! Priest then sends Drew SOUTH OF HEAVEN through the windshield! Priest tells security that he’s done for now. Any more jokes, Drew? Didn’t think so! RIP, jackass!
Priest leaves, the producers hurry to help Drew, and Drew’s got glass in his eye! Will that glass help Drew see why he shouldn’t piss off the Punisher?
CM Punk heads to gorilla.
He has a security detail with him, and he passes by Drew writhing in pain. Punk chuckles, then continues on. Will his contract signing with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins be just as brutal? We find out, after the break.
Nick Aldis is in the ring.
The SmackDown General Manager welcomes us back, and says it is his honor and privilege to be here in the O2 in London. Now, we all know why he and this table is here, and why additional security is here tonight. Tonight, we are here to sign a contract for a Triple Threat. Perhaps the biggest Triple Threat in the history of WrestleMania: Seth Rollins VS CM Punk VS Roman Reigns! The fans cheer all those names, and here comes the OTC! London puts the ones up, and Paul Heyman accompanies THE Tribal Chief out on stage. Roman raises his finger to the sky for the pyro, then security follows him to the ring.
SmackDown goes picture in picture as Roman’s entrance continues, and he raises his finger to the sky for the second round of pyro. Roman steps into the ring, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Heyman hands him a mic. The fans sing, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!” Roman nods, the fans cheer, and now they chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman tells London, “ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer again, and again chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman smiles, but he sees the chairs are not to his liking. Heyman makes sure to put one at the head of the table. Heyman also dusts the chair off while Roman enjoys the singing of, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!”
Roman takes a seat and says that was beautiful. The way they sing to their Tribal Chief, it’s just beautiful. The singing continues, and Heyman even joins in! Roman smiles, and he says that is what he’s talking about. That’s the OTC for you, baby! The biggest star on the planet! The OTC came here for two reasons. One: to be acknowledged; check! And two: to sign this contract. Roman does just that, and he says he’s checked both boxes. That means- “BURN IT DOWN!” Seth Rollins interrupts! The fans now sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Rollins struts out in his red wine paisley suit and conducts the O2 Choir all the way into the ring.
The fans cheer while Roman frowns, but Rollins takes the seat to Roman’s left. Rollins offers Heyman a chance to sing to this song, but Heyman frowns. Rollins chuckles, and he says the fans do have beautiful singing voices. He doesn’t know why Roman is in such a hurry to leave, though! This is their building! There’s a lot of history here! 12 years ago, they landed on the roof of this place in a helicopter! They came down those stairs over there, “ready to burn down the old guard!” They put the Undertaker down through the desk, and they were going to remake this company in their image!
Now don’t get him wrong, Rollins knows a lot has happened since then. They fought against each other, with each other, a little bit of love and a whole lot of hate. But Rollins dare says, as the fans continue to sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~,” that Rollins and Roman accomplished their mission. The fans start to chant for CM Punk, but Rollins tunes them out. Roman says, “We? We? You keep saying we. Our mission? We died a long time ago. It’s only been ME. You been here, but I done all the work! I’ve made this place what it is today! I took us to the level that we are here today! I made this place better than we found it!
“I’m the one that made us desirable to Netflix! I’m the one that took us into billion-dollar deals! Tell me, what have you done?” Rollins shouts, “I’ll tell you what I’ve done! YOU, YOU, YOU, it’s that mindset that keeps me having to screw you! You understand that? And your biggest mistake is not understanding the danger that’s right in front of us! The danger that’s right in front of you! You let the biggest snake in the world, CM Punk, into the garden! And you could’ve cut his head off at WarGames! But instead, you shook his hand. You could’ve let me finish him inside the cage at The Garden, but you didn’t. And now, I am left to do what I always do: Clean up your mess, again.”
Rollins drops his mic, picks up the pen, and signs his part. And now, here comes CM PUNK! The fans fire up and sing along with Cult of Personality, then join in on saying, “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME~!” Punk goes to the ring, but as he grabs a mic, he goes up a corner, just like he did last Friday. “I have come here to chew bubblegum and sign a contract. And I’m all outta bubblegum.” The fans cheer the Rowdy Roddy Piper reference, and Punk hops down to take his seat on Roman’s right. Punk looks over said contract, but Roman asks if Punk needs a highlighter or something. What’s he doing? Just go to page four, clause five.
Punk does as Roman says, but Roman says Punk needs to hurry, this is precious TV time. Punk reads the segment, Roman tells Heyman to just smarten Punk up. Heyman tells Punk he knows what Punk is looking for. It is in there. They’re closing the show at WrestleMania. The fans go wild hearing that! Heyman tells Punk that he gets to live his dream of dreams. CM Punk will be a WrestleMania main eventer! The fans cheer and while Roman smiles, Rollins is furious. Roman says, “One man’s dream is another man’s favor! CHECK!” Wait, this was the favor? Rollins says no! This is not something to laugh at, and Punk does not get to tear up!
Punk is NOT deserving! He does NOT deserve this! The fans boo but Rollins continues to throw a fit! Main eventing WrestleMania is SACRED, the most important thing in the world to Rollins! More than anything! Except the fact that Punk NEVER gets to main event! This is all Roman’s fault! This is all Heyman’s fault! Rollins THROWS his mic down, paces angrily, but Punk picks up the mic. The fans cheer Punk on again, and Punk stands to thank London, to thank Chicago, to thank Louisville, Kentucky, and to thank ALL the fans. As corny as it sounds, he thanks the WWE Universe who stood by him and chanted his name for TEN LONG YEARS!
Roman says hold on, hold on. Punk shouldn’t be thanking the fans! He should be thanking the Tribal Chief! It is because of Roman that Punk gets this honor! So please, take this moment, close the show with that acknowledgement! Do this the right way. The credits are already rolling as Punk kneels before Roman!? Punk smiles, and he thanks “My Tribal Chief, the holder of the ula fala, the Head of the Table, the… Big Dog? Thank you for allowing a kid from Chicago to be graced by your presence. Thank you, My Tribal Chief, for allowing me to stand in your ring. And thank you so much. Thank you, Roman Reigns, so very much.
“But because of you, I will see you in the main event of WrestleMania.” And again, Rollins is agonizing over this. Punk finishes putting his signature on the contract, and London tells him, “You Deserve It!” Punk thanks Roman again, and then says, “But that’s not the favor that I’m owed.” WHAT?! Roman looks at Heyman and Heyman can’t look him in the eye! If getting this Triple Threat made into the main event isn’t the gift of the Wise Man, then what is?!
My Thoughts:
A good SmackDown, but they pulled off quite the paradox. They made it feel like they were struggling to fill three hours, yet they also filled the show to the point where that contract signing segment was almost bleeding over the three hour mark. Ironically, part of the problem was just how excited the London crowd was for this. The superstars still wanted to enjoy the chants and songs, but that’s time SmackDown doesn’t have to spare. It made the opening promo from Cody, Orton and Drew take longer, and it kinda did the same to the contract signing at the end. Even so, we still got a very good promo, and good stuff to set up Orton VS McIntyre.
Orton VS McIntyre was a great match, but of course Kevin costs Orton. McIntyre gets his win, Kevin and Orton have a bit of a brawl, but of course Kevin ends up on the losing end and runs off. McIntyre’s trash talk also comes back to bite him as Priest gets the better of him in their brawl. Here’s hoping Drew didn’t actually get glass in his eye, but that being the thing in kayfabe can be some good stuff. I can imagine McIntyre with an eyepatch, and he takes it off at the opportune time to get the better of Priest in their match. Also what a fitting choice for Punk to be passing by Drew suffering because of real glass.
Very good title matches tonight, but of course the status quo was kept. Pretty Deadly gets to look great here in London, but the Profits only just got the belts, they’re not going to be transitional champions like that. And Knight VS Braun was really good stuff, but honestly, Jacob Fatu going after them both should’ve been a given. Jacob also had a great promo with Solo & Tama to start adding to that divide between Jacob and Solo. I would hope Solo doesn’t screw Jacob out of the US Championship, but it feels like he will as Solo won’t stand for Jacob defying his authority, even though Solo’s been trying to make Jacob the champion all along.
Very good stuff from Jimmy Uso tonight, from his promo with #MeloDon’tMiz and then a great match with Miz. Their match ended up the de facto main event match, so that’s also great for both guys. Great win for Jimmy, but that’s likely because Jimmy is losing big time to Gunther on Monday. And it might just be me, but it feels like only now is the Jey VS Gunther build really moving, largely in part because Jimmy got involved. Jimmy’s promo after his match is something along the lines of what Jey should be saying. But I suppose as brothers, Jimmy is the one who knows Jey best and knows what Jey needs to be motivated again. And seeing Jimmy get beat up by Gunther will definitely motivate Jey…
Good final vignettes for Rey Fenix and Aleister Black. I’m a little surprised they confirmed Rey Fenix is showing up next week, and that they confirmed who Rey Fenix even is. I believe commentary confirmed Rey Fenix is Penta’s real brother, even namedropped “Lucha Brothers,” but all that is still surprising considering Fenix is going to start on SmackDown. Aleister’s vignette (at least I am fairly confident it’s his) was giving us glimpses of his silhouette, but I think there was usage of AI in the snake imagery. It was fine they did it for El Grande Americano because that is all trolling, but they really should try and do things the old fashioned way of photoshop and stock imagery.
Very good stuff in the Women’s Division tonight, though the WWE Women’s Championship portion was the weaker. Naomi’s got a great Heel persona going, her promo was great, and her going after B-Fab & Michin over them supporting Jade was a great detail. Jade runs Naomi off, helps B-Fab, but there was no helping Michin in being fed to Charlotte. Tiffany had a decent promo, and it does fit how Charlotte kept her from speaking so she finally gets things out here. It didn’t really add that much, though, but they already gave us a great brawl so not sure what more they can give.
KC Squared VS The Secret Her-vice was a very good match, but of course Chelsea made sure her team won. A Six Woman Tag of Zelina & KC Squared VS The Green Administration is certainly coming, to help give us Zelina VS Chelsea for the Women’s US Championship.
My Score: 8.7/10
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 3.27.2025
Bad news out of the TNA management side, but this is a taped episode from El Paso! So we won’t see any of the fallout just yet!

Now we all heard the news about the TNA change in hierarchy, and I…have no positive outlook on that. Delirious sucked at booking and creative in the dying days of ROH before it got bought as a B show. Dreamer having even more control is concerning because his ideas the last two years haven’t been much better.
Gail leaving makes more sense to me. Be it firing or a “you can’t quit, you’re fired” kind of situation, the Knockouts division is the worst it’s been in a long time and Gail was close with Scott D’Amore. So I don’t think Gail parting ways is as big of a problem since TNA has slowly been bleeding out with the Scott faithful.
Granted, I think the next few shows were already taped before the firing so things shouldn’t be completely unwatchable for at least a week or two. So let’s see where we’re going.
.@WeAreRosemary sends @XiaBrookside a CHILLING message!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/srciTTbel0
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Ratings:
- Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge: Ash wins via Rarefied Air – ** 1/4
- Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr: Chavo wins via Gory Bomb into Frog Splash – *** 1/4
- Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich: Masha wins via Russian Death Device – ***
- Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin: Eric wins via Piledriver – ** 1/2
- Seto & Mokuba – I mean – Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater: Nic wins via Danger Zone – *** 1/4
Results:
Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge
Ash and Gigi start off, Gigi with a little Rascalz after her first takedown. So both her and Wentz are making it obvious something’s going on between them, and I’m not mad at it. Good for my man Wentz.
Tatum and Gigi get some quick tandem offense in, Ash does manage to scurry off to a tag and Heather gets bent into a Pretzel. Some kind of Inverted Tarantula from Tatum, Gigi tags in, Bronco Buster on Heather followed by Kawada Kicks. Heather sells against the ropes, Gigi goes for a Hesitation Dropkick, but Concierge pulls her away so Gigi crashes and burns. Ref is distracted, Ash gets in some cheap shots and then the Elegant duo starts working over Gigi. A few quick tags, but once Heather comes in, Gigi fights out of the corner, gets the hot tag to Tatum. Tatum stacks up both Elegance members, Corner Stacked Crossbody, Butterfly Suplex and an Elbow Drop with some some flare. Tatum goes to the top rope, Heather pulls Gigi off the apron, Concierge shoves Tatum off the turnbuckle and Ash hits Rarefied Air for the win.
Post match the Elegance Clique wants to make their wish with the cake, they light the candles and Tatum and Gigi recover enough to do what we all expected last week, the cake in the face spot. Some…suggestive licking from both of our Hot Topic Hotties, so…no complaints here.
.@Ashamae_Sebera, @Heathereckless and @IamGeorgeIceman are having a meltdown!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/FnKwPqm2ff
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr
Chavo and Kaz start since he’s King Petty, a quick rope run turns into a Headscissor from Chavo. Kaz recovers, they lock up, Kaz hits the Knee Lift during the lock up to tag out to KC. KC pulls off some athletic dodges, gloats a bit so Chavo waits, measures and nails a gorgeous Dropkick. Laredo comes in on fire, quick high spots that send KC bouncing around like HBK against Hulk. KC powders after sells the Satellite Takedown, AJ checks on him and we go to commercial.
Back from commercial, Octagon is lighting up KC’s chest with overhand chops, he perches, Sunset Headscissor Flip from corner to corner, KC tries to Back Drop him but Octagon does a headstand, kicks KC away and lays him out with a high spot. AJ gets on the apron to stop Octagon from running the ropes, the referee has a stroke or something because he stops paying attention and AJ pulls Octagon out of the ring and chucks him. KC with the Tope con Hilo and tag (tag ropes haven’t mattered since the 80s we all know this). So AJ is getting taunted by the crowd in Spanish, but he’s manhandling Octagon since it looks like a Child fighting their parent. AJ knocks off Chavo and Laredo, Laredo pops up and tries to get involved but he’s caught on the shoulders, Octagon goes for the Crossbody but gets caught and AJ pulls off “World’s Strongest Wasteland” but Chavo breaks up the pinfall. AJ throws Octagon into the corner, Tennessee Whiskey, and tag out to KC. KC hits a few moves, but starts to lose the momentum until he connects with a Super Kick. Simultaneous rope run into the Dueling Crossbodies, so we get the timely tag outs from both sides. Kaz and Laredo come in, Laredo lands like two moves before Kaz hits a Sole Butt, Lariat and eats his lunch. KC and Kaz try to double team Laredo but he fights out and the crowd is chanting for Chavo.
Chavo tags in, and he’s rocking KC, Saito Suplex, Low Bridge to AJ, Reverse the Whip so Chavo goes to the corner and perches, KC feeds, Chavo Backflips to safety, rolls through and lays out KC. Chavo is feeling himself, 3 Amigos start on KC but only 2, Kaz comes in and Chavo switches to Kaz for the Amigos, only 2 again before AJ breaks it up. AJ goes for the disrespect, but Chavo counters and hits the 3 Amigos on the biggest Culero. Aztec Warriors dive to stop AJ and Kaz, KC tries a Dirty Victory Roll but Chavo kicks out. GORY BOMB into FROG SPLASH!
Chavo looked fantastic and he’s the one in the best shape in the ring. I wouldn’t be mad at more Chavito.
Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich
I expect very little from this match.
Collar and Elbow, gator rolling for the first 30 seconds or so, then Jacy goes to some Hair Pull takedowns and does a little taunt before Masha pops back up and hits a Lariat into a Dive. Jacy sells it like she’s really hurt, even the ref tries to hold Masha back a little before Masha gets annoyed and just grabs her, Masha throws her in, looks for a Dive and Jacy sees it and powders. Masha tries to go back to the well for the Dive again but Jacy hits the Uppercut and then an Apron Run PK to drop Masha. Forearms rain down into a Foot Choke as Jacy continues to arrogantly play to the crowd. Another Foot Choke into a Cannonball, and near fall.
Masha gets space with a Sole Butt, tries to snap off Requiem but Jacy fights off, fights through a Sunset Flip another effective PK keeps Masha on her ass. Jacy looks for a kinda half-assed Camel Clutch as Masha is fighting up, but Jacy runs her into the corner, gets distracted mouthing off to the crowd, so Masha recovers, 5 Hole Up Kick sends Jacy into the corner, Yakuza Kick into Capo Kick for two. Requiem attempt again, but Jacy pushes off, a little back and forth, Masha tries a Backslide but Jacy gets away and hits a V-Trigger but only a 2 count. Jacy looks for the Discus Punch but Masha ducks it, they strike back and forth, but some dodges from both leave the exchange more even. Jacy with the Front Kick to the face sends Masha to the outside. Jacy wants another PK, but Masha blocks, Electric Chair Apron Snake Eyes. Masha throws her in, a PK into a near all. Requiem attempt 3, and thwarted from Jacy with a Superkick into a Neckbreaker. Senton misses from Jacy, Buzzsaw Kick, into Spinning Back Kick and Russian Death Device for the win.
Better than I expected, and Tessa attacks as soon as the bell rings. Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Li make the save after Tessa grabs the belt.
Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin
Ace and Eric tie up, World of Sport start but as soon as Ace starts to get away EY punches him in the face. Eric looks at the camera and says “This is what trust looks like”, turns his back on Ace, when Ace looks to attack, the loser duo cut him off. EY takes advantage of the weird situation, but Ace with some Up and Over quick spots, into an Inside Cradle and La Magistral. EY kicks out of the quick flash attempts, but eats a Dropkick, and Ace goes all Speed Kils on him with fast strikes and then a face buster for another near fall. Strike spot very early in the match, Ace gets the best of it, goes for a Tear Drop Suplex but EY sits on it to block, Headlocks to keep him close and then a snap Lariat into beatdown bully tactics. EY takes the referee’s attention and one of the nerds punch Ace in the face.
Eric tries to lean on Ace, but Ace fires, a few strikes, Click Click Boom, the Miz Seated Lariats in the corner, Mochizuki Triangle Kick connects! Only a 2 count, but Ace seems to be in control. Ace puts EY on the ropes, a few strikes to keep him rocked, wants a Superplex, but EY blocks, bites the face and Macho Elbow gets a very close two count. EY tries the Piledriver but Ace turns it into a Jacknife Cradle,Spinning Heel Kick, calls for The Fold, but the losers hop on the apron to distract, Ace attacks them. Ace tries to time out the Triangle Kick again, but Eric dodges, throws Ace head first through the buckles. As Ace stumbles out of the corner, Piledriver, and it’s over.
Oh look it’s the “we’ll hear from Joe Hendry” segment. Again, I’ve loved this gimmick since Day 1, even didn’t hate his What Culture Pro stuff, but there is such a thing as milking a cow too much.
Elijah interrupts the whole “Who’s next” speech. When Elijah comes out he says he’s not the challenger and he believes in Joe. The crowd wants Elijah to turn on Hendry. Elijah pauses for a moment, and starts proving his friendship with stating his favorite color and a little “You Got a Friend in Me”. The crowd is into singing along and waving their cameras like Lighters to a 30 year old song. THANKFULLY Kaz breaks up the hug fest. Now he gets the “Culero” chant.
Kaz pulls out a Bass…what the hell is this Jam Session. Kaz has to warm up so he plays “La Cucaracha” on the bass. Kaz…is a national treasure. Hendry kicks Kaz out of the ring after his Heelish and playfully racially charged song choices. Kaz tries to sow dissension, but Joe and Elijah pinball Kaz between them. Kaz slips a power move and tries to shove Elijah into Joe but Elijah puts the brakes on, a small tense moment. But then Joe and Elijah play “Nah Nah Nah Nah, Hey Hey, Goodbye”…and that goes right into a commercial. Oddly…perfect.
Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater
Nic shoots the half immediately for a flash pinfall but Leon kicks out at one. Nic continues to keep things grounded with his amateur wrestling skills, and then does a little Dolph Ziggler show off. So Nic isn’t really taking this seriously, and Leon starts getting the best of things with an Arm Wringer, into drag, Shoulder Tackle and rope run as Nic tries to Leap Frog and Leon puts on the brakes and just shoves Nic on his ass. Nic gets annoyed, a few strikes, grinds his face along the ropes, but Leon keeps stringing some offense together, Back Handspring Elbow into his Corner con Hilo.
Ahh the classic formula of the commercial gives the heel the advantage, Twisting Suplex from Leon stops Nic’s offense momentum, right hand, Leon lifts Nic up for something, Nic slips it, kicks him in the gut, looks for the FameAsser, but Leon catches him into a Blue Thunder Bomb variation. Slater wants the Swanton 450, but Nic powders. Leon tries to adjust into a Dive, but Nic cuts him off, counter for counter and a FameAsser out of the counters for a two count. Nic starts the big brother tactics, bootwashes and arrogance, Slater fires, punches into a Yakuza Kick. Leon wants another Lethal Injection variant, but Nic catches him into a Rear Naked Choke. Slater tries to turn it into a pin so Nic breaks it. Leon wants a Leg Lariat but misses and gets unceremoniously dropped by Nic. Nic puts Leon up on the buckles, Superplex possibly but Slater counters, tries to collect himself for a move, but Nic falls into the ropes to crotch Leon, and finally hits the Superplex.
Twist of Slate from Leon, Swanton 450 but knees get up. Locomotion Cradles from both but they kick out, Ryan picks the ankle to trip up Leon just a touch and then Danger Zone ends the match.
Ryan starts the post match beatdown, but the Hardy’s music hits and they come down to the ring for the save. Matt challenges the Nemeths for Rebellion because they’re not medically cleared yet.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Decent story motion, no match was offensive, and there was actually some solid match action for television standards. I don’t have a ton to complain about aside from the Knockouts Division is in a weird spot, and giving Hendry a lot of just talking and hollow payoff segments feels stupid. If we need to hear from him every week, give him a talk segment like Highlight Reel or something. Yes I know First Class just got The Penthouse, but if Hendry is going to talk more than wrestle, give him a talk segment for us to sink our teeth into.
There was the announcement that Xia, Lei Ying and Masha will face Tessa, Jacy and a mystery partner. So you gotta wonder if there’s going to be another NXT mercenary, a surprise return or if it’ll just be Rosemary since she’s got her issues with Xia. Also I just realized that Unbreakable is going to be on a Thursday, seemingly after iMPACT? I’m gonna have to see how they do it, because if there’s an Impact episode and 2-3 hour PLE…I do not want to be awake until 1am. People need to work, and I will be Unwakeable if things go that long.
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