Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (3/14/22)
It’s a Cele-BRO-tion!
And your NEW Raw Tag Team Champions…!
After winning back the Raw Tag Team Championships last week, Randy Orton and Matt Riddle are going to through a championship celebration, bros!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Finn Balor VS Damian Priest; Priest wins.
- Omos VS Commander Azeez w/ Apollo Crews; Omos wins.
- Liv Morgan w/ Rhea Ripley VS Queen Zelina Vega w/ Carmella; Liv wins.
- The Mysterios VS The Hurt Business; The Mysterios win.
- Bianca Belair VS “Doudrop” Piper Niven w/ Nikki A.S.H; Belair wins.
- Matt Riddle w/ Randy Orton VS Montez Ford w/ Angelo Dawkins; Riddle wins, by disqualification.
- Seth Rollins VS Kevin Owens; Kevin wins and hosts a talk show at WrestleMania.
PLAY BY PLAY
WWE mourns the loss of Scott Hall.
Kevin Owens heads to the ring!
Last week to close out Raw, the Prizefighter called out the Texas Rattlesnake for WrestleMania. Stone Cold Steve Austin answered online with a “OH HELL YEAH!” Kevin now gets a mic and looks to the WrestleMania sign. Jacksonville is booing but Kevin says, “Hey yo. What you’re looking at right now is the happiest Canadian camper in the world. Because ladies and gentlemen, it’s official. I am going to WrestleMania! And as far as I’m concerned, I’m not just going to WrestleMania, I am going to the main event of WrestleMania Saturday, because my guest on that night for the KO Show is none other than the greatest of all time, Stone Cold Steve Austin!”
Kevin says that for a minute, it looked like all hope was lost for him. So he used his superior Canadian intellect and started thinking, “What can I do?” And that’s when he got it. He knew what to do! Since none of these yellow-teethed Texans can turn down a challenge, why not challenge the embodiment of Texas itself? Kevin knew Austin would accept, and now he’s pretty proud. Now, the entire world- Fans chant for “USA! USA!” Yes, including the USA, everyone gets to witness the most stupendous KO Show of all time as he decimate and smears Stone Cold all over Texas, from Dallas to Austin to San Antonio to Corpus Christi to Loredo!
Kevin heard Stone Cold’s gonna open one last can of whoop ass on Kevin? EH-EH! Not happening! The only can that will open is a nice, cold can of Canadian beer after he’s done with Austin. And Kevin doesn’t even like beer! He’ll make an exception on that night, because mark Kevin’s words. NO one will be saying “OH HELL YEAH” after Kevin’s done with Austin. They’ll be going “OH HELL NO” as Kevin beats the hell outta Austin! That’s the bottom line, cuz KO said so! And then he gives the cameraman a STUNNER!! Will KO #StunTheWorld when he gives one of those to Austin? Or will he get a stunner from the man who did it best?
Finn Balor VS Damian Priest!
The Prince wants after the Archer of Infamy after the last two times Priest has roughed him up! Will Finn hit his target? Or will Damian earn himself a rematch for the US Championship in time for WrestleMania?
Raw returns and Priest makes his entrance. But then Austin Theory makes his own entrance, clearly wanting to keep an eye on this. Theory joins commentary, the bell rings, Finn SHOTGUNS Priest down! Finn fires off kicks, glares at Theory, then fires off on Priest. priest shoves back and knees low! Priest snarls, drags Finn up and puts him in a corner. Finn dodges to RAM his shoulder in again again, but Priest hauls him out! Finn trips Priest, Priest avoids the stomps but Finn rolls through the roll up to basement dropkick! Finn stomps away on Priest, Priest gets out of the ring. Finn aims but Priest blocks the kick!
Finn holds ropes, so Priest sweeps the other leg! Finn hits the apron, Priest gets in but goes back out to get Finn up. Canadian rack, Crucifix, RAZOR’S EDGE onto the desk! Theory applauds and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Finn fires off, only to run into a COMPLETE SHOT! Cover, TWO! Finn survives but Priest snarls. Priest waits for Finn to sit up and he KICKS! And KICKS! Priest KICKS Finn more and more, Theory does commentary, and Priest hits a ROLLING ELBOW! Finn CHOPS, KICKS, but Priest BELL CLAPS! Priest runs in but Finn BOOTS him! Finn fires forearms and body shots, then whips. Priest reverses, Finn ducks and dodges, but runs into a choke grip! But Finn wheelbarrows to a DOUBLE STOMP! Finn runs in to SLINGBLADE! Fans fire up as Finn aims again, SHOT- ROUNDHOUSE from Priest!
Priest brings Finn up, scoops, Graves kisses up to Theory, but Finn ELBOW DROP DDTs! Priest gets up, into the SHOTGUN! Finn hurries up the corner, but Theory gets off commentary to distract! The ref reprimands, Theory backs off, and Priest clamps onto Finn’s neck! But Finn GAMANGIRIS him away! Finn hops down to SHOTGUN Theory out of his chair! Fans fire up seeing that, but Finn returns to a scoop and dragon sleeper! THE RECKONING! Cover, Priest wins!
Winner: Damian Priest, by pinfall
Theory took the hit for Priest and now Priest gets a big win over the US Champion! And Theory again gets Finn up for an A T L! Theory takes another victory selfie, but will Finn get his revenge on the cocky upstarts?
Backstage interview with Seth Rollins.
Kevin Patrick says Kevin Owens has a plan, but does Rollins have any developments? Or is he still not part of WrestleMania? Rollins glares at Kevin and Kevin leaves. Is there a plan in the Architect’s mind? Or is he too consumed with rage?
Omos VS Commander Azeez w/ Apollo Crews!
It’s like a kaiju battle in real life! Will the colossal Omos still be dominant going up against the Pride of Nigeria’s number one soldier? Or has he finally met his match?
Raw returns as Apollo and Azeez make their entrance. The bell rings and the two look each other over. Then they tie up! They’re in a deadlock, but Omos manages to power Azeez back. Azeez turns it around, Omos turns it back, but Azeez puts Omos in the corner. Omos turns it around again and they go along ropes. Omos powers Azeez back to center but Azeez knees low. Azeez runs, but Omos runs him over! Azeez tumbles tot he apron, gets up, but Omos clotheslines him out! Apollo gets on the apron to distract and Azeez gets back up to HOTSHOT Omos! Azeez gets in to fire off hands, and he ROCKS Omos!
Azeez RAMS Omos in the corner, runs side to side and SPLASHES! Azeez kicks low, reels Omos in, but OMOS suplexes Azeez!! Fans fire up as Omos gets Azeez with both hands, MOUNTAINTOP SLAM!! Cover, Omos wins!
Winner: Omos, by pinfall
Apollo is in shock, but Omos drags him up by his head! And CHOKE SLAMS him down! Omos dominates two men in one go, will anyone stop this juggernaut?
Kevin Owens finds Seth Rollins backstage.
Kevin snaps Rollins out of his funk and says he knows things are tough. But those tough times don’t last, tough guys do. Kevin knows Rollins can get on WrestleMania. He just has to focus his energy somewhere, like Kevin did! Kevin is going there by just thinking up something. Rollins is the Visionary, Kevin isn’t, so let’s get a vision! Think back to past WrestleMania moments. Triple H, Brock Lesnar, the Money in the Bank cash-in, losing to Kevin. Okay, don’t think about that one. But they created a moment together so they can do it again. They’re best friends, and Rollins is creative. They can build something and-
Rollins stops Kevin there. Rollins smiles and laughs because he has an idea! Kevin takes partial credit for this, but just what did he inspire Rollins to come up with?
Liv Morgan w/ Rhea Ripley VS Queen Zelina Vega w/ Carmella!
The WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships match grew into a Triple Threat, and that means a 33.33% of winning! But will Liv show the Queen of the Ring that a crown don’t mean a thing? Or will Vega prove she has the advantage going into WrestleMania?
Raw returns as Vega & Mella make their entrance. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Vega throws Liv down but Liv kips up. Vega kicks low, straitjackets the arms and turns Liv for a NECKBREAKER! Vega holds the straitjacket for the CHANCERY! Liv endures, fans rally as Vega bridges, but then Vega drops to turn it into a straitjacket stretch! Liv continues to endure, Rhea rallies the fans, but Vega SLAMS Liv down. Vega soaks up the heat, bumps Liv off buckles, and then JUMP KICKS! Liv falls, Vega runs, and Vega KNEES Liv down! Cover, TWO! Mella isn’t worried as Vega has the legs.
But Liv kicks Vega away, Vega dodges, but Liv sunset flips! TWO! ROLLING CRADLE! They go around and around, back to the sunset, TWO! But now we go the other way! Liv has the sunset again, TWO! Liv and Vega are a little dizzy but Liv kicks, KICKS and DROPKICKS! Vega ends up in a corner, fans fire up but Mella distracts Liv. Liv swipes at Mella, Vega POWERBOMBS Liv! Mella applauds her own handiwork, but Rhea storms over. Fans fire up as Rhea warns Mella, and then starts chasing her! Mella leaps onto Graves for protection! Vega asks what the heck is going on out there, but then she focuses on Liv.
Vega runs, Liv gets around, OBLIVION! Cover, Liv wins!
Winner: Liv Morgan, by pinfall
Graves reassures Mella that this isn’t a big deal, but Vega glares over at her teammate. Is it all crumbling down for the Queen and the Most Beautiful Woman in the WWE?
Seth Rollins heads to the ring!
The Visionary doesn’t wait for the others to leave, he’s that excited for his WrestleMania idea! What is it that has him so happy? We’ll find out, after the break.
Raw returns and Rollins has the mic and a big smile on his face. “Ladies and gentlemen, I have a plan to get myself to Wrestle~ Mania~!” With less than three weeks to go, he thought all hope was lost. After losing out on the Raw Tag Team Championships, he thought all hope was lost! But then his best friend, Kevin, reminded him who he is! He IS a visionary, he IS a revolution, he is Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins! And he has a plan! But he wants his best friend to be here to party in Jacksonville! C’mon out, Kevin! Kevin makes his way back out and fans boo. Kevin goes to the ring and gets a mic to say he can’t wait to hear this!
So is Kevin ready? Are the fans ready? No drum roll yet. Kevin has a talk show, right? The KO Show. And his guest will be Stone Cold Steve Austin! But what if… Seth Rollins had a talk show? Like Freakin’ Speakin’ or the Rollins Report! Or check this! What if HIS guest was also Stone Cold Steve Austin! What? No no no. Stone Cold is Kevin’s guest, he has a talk show, Rollins can’t just copy Kevin. That’s not a good plan. Rollins should think differently. Right, right, of course. There can’t just be another talk show. So here we go! Rollins VS Kevin, winner gets the talk show with Stone Cold! YEAH! Why didn’t Rollins think of this sooner?!
No, no, no! Kevin had the idea first, Austin is his guest, Austin is pissed at Kevin, he’s coming for Kevin, that’s how it is. Rollins needs to get his own idea. But Rollins needs this! So does Kevin! What is Rollins doing this for? Sonya Deville walks out and she admits, she likes Rollins’ idea. What?! Sonya is going to give them time to get ready, because the main event will be Kevin VS Rollins! And yes, the winner gets to host the talk show with Austin? WHY!? Kevin is furious but Rollins is excited! Will Kevin have to give his best friend a stunner to keep things as planned?
The Mysterios VS The Hurt Business!
Rey & Dominik are back in action against Cedric Alexander & Shelton Benjamin, and hopefully The Miz will be nowhere near ringside for this one. Will the King of Lucha Libre and his son get this one fair and square? Or will PRIMED Alexander & the Gold Standard get a win even without help?
Raw returns and the Hurt Business make their entrance. But at the same time, The Miz and Logan Paul head to ringside to join commentary. The teams sort out, Dom starts with Benjamin, but Benjamin sucker punches Rey at the bell! Dom fires off on Benjamin, whips but Benjamin reverses. Dom ducks and dodges to RANA! Benjamin gets up, Dom runs in to wheelbarrow and throw Benjamin to the ropes! But Alexander tags in as Dom dials it up. Benjamin puts Dom on the apron, Dom ROCKS Benjamin but Alexander CLOBBERS Dom! Dom hits apron hard and Alexander is all fired up!
Alexander puts Dom in the ring, covers, TWO! Alexander keeps Dom down with a rear bearhug. Dom endures while Miz and Logan discuss the disagreement over Cleveland’s WrestleMania worthiness. But they both laugh at Jacksonville. Fans rally for Dom as he fights up. Dom reaches out but Alexander knees him in the side. Alexander CLUBS Dom down, pushes him around, brings him up, and ROCKS him with a forearm. Alexander talks trash, brings Dom up, Dom throws body shots back! Dom JAWBREAKERS, dodges and NECKBREAKERS! Fans fire up as both men are down, and Dom crawls to hot tag Rey!
Rey dodges Alexander, heascissors him and KICKS his leg. Rey whips, Alexander reverses but Rey slides under! Alexander gets a waistlock, drags Rey up but Rey bucks him off. Rey hits Benjamin, elbows Alexander, then QUEBRADAS to TORNADO DDT! Cover, Benjamin breaks it in time! Rey ENZIGURIS Benjamin onto ropes, but Alexander knees Rey low! Alexander gets Rey up but Rey RANAS Alexander into Benjamin! Dom tags in, DOUBLE 619! Rey LEAPS onto Benjamin and Dom goes up! FROG SPLASH onto Alexander! Cover, The Mysterios win!
Winners: The Mysterios, by pinfall
Dom and Rey regroup but here come Miz and Logan! Miz goes right after Dom and Logan rains down on Rey! Miz has Logan get Rey up and Logan talks trash. Rey hits back but Logan CLUBS Rey, then feeds him to Miz! But Rey BOOTS Logan and wheelbarrows Miz out of the ring! Logan sees he’s surrounded by Mysterios, so he swings on Dom! Dom feeds him to Rey’s KICK! Dom DROPKICKS Logan onto ropes, but Miz saves him from the 619! Rey dares them to get back in here, but the “Most Must-See Tag Team” says they’re doing this on their time! Will Miz and Logan have to face the music when it’s finally them against the Mysterios in a fair fight?
The newest 2022 Hall of Fame inductee is announced!
It is Queen Sharmell! Wife to Booker T, aka KING BOOKAH, now joins him in the HOF. Long live the royal couple of the WWE!
Edge is here!
And he has a new theme! “You think you know me? Hahaha, you never did.” But he’s keeping that eerie purple spotlight from last week as he makes his way out to the ring. Edge gets the mic while Jacksonville boos. “Let’s bring you all up to speed, shall we? I am the benchmark of the WWE. For the last two weeks, my synapses have been firing at such a rapid degree that it took me time to decipher the code of what I’ve actually become. That’s above all your capability of understanding, you’re simple. That’s not your fault so I’ll grant you mercy. I’ll put this in terms you can understand: I am better than everyone.”
Edge is better than all the fans here but that’s a given. Edge is also better than everyone, every single superstar in this entire industry. But since Edge came back two years ago, he hasn’t shown that aptitude. The Edge that came back, intent in pleasing and appeasing the fans, was WEAK! Edge realized, the fans don’t matter! In trying to please them, he took his eyes of the prize, allowing Randy Orton to tear Edge’s triceps from the bone! Allowing Seth Rollins to cost Edge the Universal Championship, walk into his home and piss all over his territory! Allowing the Aquaman cosplayer, Roman Reigns, a man who can’t lace Edge’s boots, to stack and pin Edge at WrestleMania.
And if that Edge faced Styles at Mania, then Styles would leave that Edge in the dust. “But that Edge… That Edge is dead, baby! Because now, I sit perched on my mountain of omnipotence, looking down on everyone.” Edge will not be judged by fans! Or by anyone in the locker room, and certainly not by AJ Styles! Edge will pass the verdicts around here from now on. He would apologize if he cared, but he doesn’t! So AJ, if, and that is a big if. IF AJ Styles makes it to WrestleMania, and we see two generational talents face each other for the first time ever… Edge soaks in the moment while fans chant, “You Still Suck!”
Edge hears them chant at him but he just looks to the WrestleMania sign. “Then, AJ… You will be judged.” The Rated R Superstar drops the mic and laughs as he has become something far worse. Will Edge prove he is greater than phenomenal at the most stupendous WrestleMania of all time?
Backstage interview with Bianca Belair.
Sarah points out that Becky Lynch continues to assert Bianca’s hair is an unfair advantage in their matches. How does Bianca respond? It is both an advantage and disadvantage. It can whip sense into Becky, but that was after Becky wrapped the hair around the ropes. Bianca takes the good with the bad, that is part of her identity. And that right there is the weapon Becky is really afraid of. The way Bianca sees things, the real advantage is… Do you hear that? That’s the sounds of Becky NOT running her mouth. Raw has been so peaceful after Bianca got Becky in the throat and stopped her from flapping her lips all the time.
So tonight, Bianca is going to use this to her advantage. She’ll focus on her opponent, and use Doudrop to give Becky a preview of what’s to come at WrestleMania. And if Becky is speechless now, just wait until the EST of the WWE shuts her up for good at WrESTleMania.
Bianca Belair VS “Doudrop” Piper Niven w/ Nikki A.S.H!
The EST and Doudrop have battled a few times before, and Bianca continues to have the advantage in the win-loss record. But will having the Almost SuperHero in her corner give Piper a new advantage over Bianca?
Raw returns and Piper makes her entrance, accompanied by Nikki. The bell rings, Piper and Bianca approach and Piper kicks low to then CLUB away on Bianca. Piper bumps Bianca off buckles, stomps her, but then runs into buckles! Bianca ROCKS Piper, slingshots in and rams Piper. Piper stays up to run Bianca over! But Bianca kips up and dropkicks back! And then Bianca whips Piper, but Piper reverse. Bianca goes up and over and then eggs Piper on. Piper and Bianca circle, things speed up, and Bianca hurdles! Piper fakes out the drop kick, but misses the senton! Bianca handsprings, and MOONSAULTS!
Bianca kips up again and fans cheer as she swings her hair around, Bianca wants to torture rack but Piper fights that off. Piper HEADBUTTS Bianca and Bianca falls out of the ring. Piper goes out and runs in around the way, but Bianca hurdles her! Bianca leaps, but into Piper’s arms! Bianca slips off the scoop to RAM Piper into the apron! Piper SHOVES Bianca into barriers! Then CANONBALLS but misses as Bianca moves! Both women are down on the outside as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns again and Bianca fights up out of the cobra clutch. But Piper uses that to ripcord and MICHINOKU DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Piper is frustrated but she goes corner to corner to CANNONBALLÂ into buckles! Bianca fires off on Piper with forearms, then she gets around to dropkick Piper to a corner! Bianca runs in to RAM into Piper! And again, and again! The ref counts, Bianca lets off to whip but Piper reveres. Bianca goes up, tells Piper to kiss this, then she jumps over Piper to spin her and reel her in! Piper is too much to suplex, but she suplexes back! Bianca slips free, goes to a corner and she BOOTS Piper away!
Piper snarls and runs in, but Bianca hits her with a SPINEBUSTER! Fans fire up, Bianca grabs at Piper. Bianca uses the corner to help with the torture rack! KISS OF DEATH! Cover, Bianca wins!
Winner: Bianca Belair, by pinfall
Nikki A.S.H. shakes her head, but Jacksonville is fired up for Bianca! But then BECKY is here! She drags Bianca out of the ring by the hair! Becky RAMS Bianca into steel steps, and is still seething as she SMACKS Bianca off the desk! Becky gets a chair from the timekeeper’s area, and she sits it up by Bianca. Becky SMACKS Bianca off the seat! And then she puts Bianca through the chair, and uses the hair to whip Bianca into the POST! Now Bianca’s clutching her neck! Becky says next week, it’s the hair’s turn! The Man, dressed in gold, swaggers out after having crushed the EST. Will she make sure Bianca never even makes it to WrestleMania?
RKBRO heads to the ring!
The Raw Tag Team Champions head to the ring, because it’s time to celebrate! How will these two party in Jacksonville? We’ll find out, after the break.
Raw returns and we see that the red carpet is out, as well as green balloons. Riddle feels he’s in a time vortex cuz he keeps replaying last week over and over again in his mind. Randy, we did it, bro! We’re going to WrestleMania!” Riddle is right, RKBRO is going to Mania! Now earlier today, Orton was doing some math. It turns out that 2022 is going to be the 18th appearance of Orton at Mania. But he thinks the 18th is going to be the sweetest, because he has never been tag team champion going in. He’s never had a real tag team partner, a friend! Riddle has had Orton’s back since day one and never doubted their success!
They are successful, so Orton thanks Riddle for that. They hug! Now, last time they won, they threw a party. So of course, this time, Orton is returning the favor. Popcorn and soda? Hmm. Orton admits, party planning isn’t his thing. But trying is what counts. Riddle says this is the greatest night of his career. He’s dead serious! Orton’s the coolest. And he even got the balloons. Riddle’s birthday is in 10 months but that’s the Viper’s wisdom. Did Orton get this from Truly Treasures in Jacksonville? Actually, Orton got this from the concession stand in the back. Orton knows Riddle so well! He loves that stuff!
And wow, bubblegum! They both love gum, they’re going to share those. The last give is also something they’re going to share. What is this? Is this…? Yes, Orton searched high and low to find it. But wait, here come the Street Profits! Angelo Dawkins & Montez Ford walk out and say they came all the way to DUUUUUVAL~ to official congratulate the NEW W, W, E, Raw, Tag, Team, Champions, R K BRO! R K BRO! Yeaaaah~! Riddle didn’t know Orton invited the Profits. This is gonna be the party of the century! Like that Broga party but- Ford says this isn’t for the party. This is about business.
Profits pinned RKBRO in the ring a few weeks back. So seeing as how RKBRO are the tag team champions, the Profits figured they should officially challenge them to the most stupendous WrestleMania in history! Whoa, whoa, hold on. Do you even know what RKBRO had to do to get these titles back? What they had to even earn the rematch? They had to jump over every hurdle, through every hoop. The Profits can’t just win one match and expect to be next. RKBRO had to win a spelling bee! So thanks for coming, have some popcorn, but the answer is no. Okay, bros? Dawkins says when it comes to the titles, they ain’t bros.
And Orton, Ford isn’t sure if you misunderstood. RKBRO owes the Profits a match. They’re way past asking. They’re telling RKBRO that they’re facing them at WrestleMania. Orton says not once since he first stepped in this ring has anyone told Orton what to do. The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, even Vincent Kennedy McMahon hasn’t told Orton what to do when he is in this ring! And the Profits aren’t, either. So here’s some advice, homies. Turn around and leave, or Orton will listen to those voices in his head and make them leave! Riddle keeps the peace, and he says the Profits make a good point. And they gotta face somebody, right?
Orton isn’t sure but Riddle says this is the right thing to do. RKBRO argue it out, the Profits wait, and the champs come back. Orton says they’re lucky his boy here is cool. As far as that challenge for the titles go, “We accept.” Ford says they appreciate Riddle talking sense into Orton. The next time they’re in DUUUUVAL~, the Profits will show them how to throw a party that ain’t so much… ass. Riddle gets upset here. Don’t disrespect Orton! He worked long and hard for this! Riddle thought they were cool. But why wait for Mania? Dawkins says okay, if Riddle wants a match with Ford, then he’s got it! The Profits are up-
Oh, no, they don’t end like that! They end with the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment: R K BRO! The Bro is fired up to take on one of his bros, will this only tear them all apart on the Road to WrestleMania?
Matt Riddle w/ Randy Orton VS Montez Ford w/ Angelo Dawkins!
Raw returns and the bell rings on this one! Ford is fired up as he circles with Riddle and they tie up. Riddle puts Ford in a corner, Ford turns it around but Riddle turns it back. They end up in another corner, Riddle gets a leg, but the ref has him let go. The two go again, Ford stomps Riddle’s foot! Ford headlocks, Riddle powers out but Ford runs Riddle over! Ford STANIDNG MOONSAULTS, into a TRIANGLE HOLD! Ford kicks and flails and pushes to a cover, TWO! Ford headlocks again, Riddle powers out but Ford goes up and over in the corner to CLAW Riddle’s back! Ford’s fighting nasty tonight and Riddle wants to know what the heck!
Ford runs in, but into a gut wrench and SLAM! Riddle holds on and drags Ford back up, for another gut wrench suplex! Riddle then covers, TWO! Ford gets to a corner, but Riddle KICKS him! And KICKS! And KICKS! The ref counts, Riddle lets off to then fisherman! Ford fights but Riddle still PERFECT PLEXES! Bridging cover, TWO! Riddle drops a BROTON! Cover, TWO! Riddle drags Ford back up to gut wrench, but Ford rolls Riddle to then dropkick him down! Riddle gets up, Ford clotheslines him out! Ford goes up to SUPER CROSSBODY, into a waistlock! GERMAN SUPLEX, but Ford lands on his feet!
Ford then LEAPS off the steps! The flying clothesline hits and Dawkins fires up with Ford! Ford taunts Orton as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Riddle fires forearms! Ford kicks low, whips, but Riddle sunset flips! Ford rolls through to PENALTY KICK! Dawkins is fired up as Ford MOONSAULTS, then SPLASHES! Cover, TWO! Orton is relieved but Ford goes to a corner. Ford climbs, points to the Mania sign, FROM THE- NO! He bails out as Riddle moves, and he spins Ford around to PELE! Riddle runs in to forearm smash! Then side to side, forearm smash again! Ford fights the clinch, runs, but into a POWERSLAM! Just like Orton’s! Orton applauds, and Riddle now has Ford in the ropes! DRAPING DDT, bro!
Fans fire up and Riddle starts hearing voices in his head! Dawkins shouts to Ford, but Ford staggers. He still stops the RKO to ENZIGURI! Ford gets Riddle up, but Riddle slips out of the bomb! RKO!! But Otis ATTACKS Orton! And Gable attacks Dawkins! Gable POSTS Dawkins, Riddle runs at Otis but gets caught! Otis RAMS Riddle into the barriers, that’s a disqualification!
Winner: Matt Riddle, by disqualification
The Alpha Academy annihilates RKBRO, and now they focus on the Profits! DISCUS GERMAN SUPLEX om Dawkins! Gable and Otis then drag Ford into the drop zone, and Otis goes up top! VADER BOMB!! Gable MOONSAULTS! Fans boo but Gable shouts, “A THANK YEW~!” Will Gable & Otis get back into the tag title picture #ForTheAcademy?
WWE pays tribute to “Razor Ramon,” Scott Hall.
He proved it was good to be a Bad Guy. Hall made an instant impact in 1992 as the character, Razor Ramon. “You can’t teach somebody to be cool. And Scott Hall has always been cool.” It was finally cool to be bad. Hall would become one of the greatest WWE Intercontinental Champions, winning WWE’s first ladder match to become the undisputed Intercontinental Champion. And then of course, in WCW, Hall & Nash would add Hulk Hogan to the New World Order. “Hey, yo. Are you hear to see the nWo?” When your nWo, you’re nWo 4 life! The WWE family will forever remember Hall as a gifted entertainer, two-time Hall of Famer, a loving father, and a dear friend.
“Hard work pays off. Dreams come true. Bad times don’t last, but bad guys do.” – Scott Hall
Seth Rollins VS Kevin Owens!
The Visionary apparently had a creative mental block because he’s just wanting to steal the Prizefighter’s idea! Will Kevin keep WrestleMania as the KO Show? Or will Rollins take that and meeting Stone Cold away from him?
Raw returns and Kevin Patrick interviews Rollins at gorilla. Rollins is so excited! Tonight is the night! Rollins once was lost but now he is found! And y’know what Rollins learned something through this ordeal. Not only does Rollins need WrestleMania, WrestleMania needs Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins! He’s gonna punch his ticket right now! With that, Rollins makes his entrance. Will the Architect ruin things for his best friend? We’ll find out, after one more break.
Raw returns again, and Rollins is arguing with Kevin. Fans sing Rollins’ theme and that annoys Kevin more. The bell rings, Rollins and Kevin circle and feel out the grapple. Rollins rolls Kevin up, ONE! Kevin is frustrated already but Rollins is laughing it up. They go again, feel out the knuckle lock but Kevin kicks low. Rollins scrambles away from the stunner and Kevin says it was that close. Kevin says this doesn’t have to happen if Rollins could just come up with something else. This is Kevin’s spot, Rollins isn’t going to take it! But Rollins fires off hands! They brawl fast and furious and fans fire up!
Rollins powers Kevin to a corner, fires off hands, but lets off at 4. Rollins looks to the sign, but Kevin puts Rollins in the corner to CHOP and HCOP and fire off hands! Kevin stomps, lets off as the ref counts, but Rollins kicks back! Rollins CHOPS, and CHOPS and CHOPS! Rollins fires haymakers, the ref backs Rollins off, and Rollins again looks to the sign, But Kevin tackles him! Kevin rains down fists, fans fire up as Kevin stomps Rollins down. Kevin walks into a body shot! Rollins ROCKS Kevin with a forearm, whips, but Kevin kicks back! Rollins LARIATS and KICKS Kevin in return!
Rollins drags Kevin to position him for a knee drop! Cover, ONE! Rollins drags Kevin up but Kevin gets away before Rollins can hook the arms. Rollins goes out after Kevin but Kevin sweeps the legs! Rollins hits apron, then Kevin gates the leg to SLAM it into the barriers! And again! The ring count is climbing, Rollins gets in but Kevin pursues to stomp the leg! Kevin SLAMS the leg on the mat, then turns Rollins over for a CALF CRUSHER! Kevin says he learned this from a Canadian legend! Rollins endures, reaches back, and he SLAMS Kevin’s head on the mat. Rollins clutches the knee but Kevin stomps him down!
Kevin gets Rollins on the apron, clubs way on him, but lets off to go outside. Kevin SLAMS the leg on the apron! The ref has the ring count start but Kevin SLAMS the leg on the apron again! Kevin gets in and says, “This is MY WrestleMania!” Kevin storms over, goes back out to the apron and he brings Rollins up. Rollins blocks the lift, to back drop Kevin on the apron! Kevin writhes, Rollins gets in the ring to build speed! DIVE, but into Kevin’s arms! FALL AWAY SLAM into barriers! Kevin drops a SENTON, then roars and gets in the ring as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns once more, and Kevin has Rollins in a HALF CRAB! Rollins endures, rolls through and kicks Kevin with the free leg! Kevin goes to a corner, Rollins hops up but Kevin BOOTS him back. Kevin goes up to get a TORNADO DDT! Then he drags Rollins up for another DDT! Cover, TWO! Rollins survives and fans rally up and duel. Rollins drags himself to a corner while Kevin gets up on the opposite side. Kevin says he’s going ot Mania, and he fires a clothesline in the corner! Rollins sits down, Kevin shouts, “THIS IS MINE!” before the CANNONBALL! Cover, TWO! Rollins shakes his head, he isn’t giving up yet.
Kevin stomps Rollins’ bad leg, then KICKS it! Rollins grits his teeth as he gets up, but Kevin kicks him again. Rollins throws haymakers but Kevin gives them back! Rollins gets the edge, Kevin kicks the bad leg again! Kevin whips, pop-up, but Rollins slips out! Rollins goes to a corner, Kevin runs in, BUCKLE SHOT! Fans fire up as Rollins and Kevin get up. Rollins throws hands and CHOPS on repeat as fans sing his theme song. Rollins picks up speed, then whips, but Kevin reverses, only for Rollins to SLINGBLADE! Rollins fires up, runs corner to corner, forearm smash! Then a whip corner to corner, but Kevin puts Rollins outside!
Rollins ROCKS Kevin, then springboards, FLYING KNEE! Rollins drags himself up as Kevin slowly rises. Rollins keeps looking to the sign, and he throws Kevin out. Rollins DIVES! Direct hit this time and Kevin hits barriers! Rollins puts Kevin back in but Kevin slips back out! Kevin staggers by the announce desk but Rollins runs in, to DIVE! Kevin goes flying over the desk! Both men are down, the ring count is climbing and Jacksonville is fired up! Rollins stands at 6 of 10 to go in. Kevin drags himself up with the desk, and is in at 9.5! SUPERKICK! Rollins goes up top! FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO!!
Rollins is beside himself as Kevin survives! Rollins has Kevin in a corner and shouts, “I need this, Kevin! I need this!” Rollins CHOPS, then hoists Kevin up top! Rollins climbs up but Kevin blocks the superplex! Kevin throws body shots, shoves Rollins away, but Rollins comes right back! Only for Kevin to SUPER FISHERMAN BUSTER! Kevin crawls to the cover, TWO!! Kevin can’t believe that Rollins survives! But Kevin goes back up top, to SWANTONÂ onto knees! Kevin writhes and rolls away while Rollins gets up. “This is Awesome!” as both men stand again. Rollins turns around, into a LARIAT!
Kevin wants Rollins to get back up! Rollins staggers into, NO! No stunner as Rollins shoves Kevin! But the ref got knocked down, too! He has to get up, TWO!! Rollins is furious! He feels he had that, but he runs in! Kevin dodges the stomp, STUNNER!! Cover, Kevin wins!
Winner: Kevin Owens, by pinfall; will host the KO Show at WrestleMania
Whether or not he wanted it more is debatable. But now it is undeniable that Stone Cold Steve Austin is going to be Kevin’s guest on the Grandest Stage of Them All. Rollins is stunned to say the least. Will he not have a WrestleMania moment after all?
My Thoughts:
A pretty good Raw in the wake of incredibly sad news. WWE put together a good tribute to Scott Hall, and he will be missed by all. And there were a great number of tribute references to him tonight, such as Kevin’s “Hey yo” when he started his promo, and how he paraphrased Hall’s HOF quote for Rollins. Priest had his own tribute with his entrance and with literally using a Razor’s Edge on Finn. I figured Priest was going to find a way to win that. This wasn’t a “Championship Contender’s match” but duh, they’re steering us towards Finn VS Priest. Theory keeps getting his shots in on Finn, too, mostly to get Heel Heat but it’s almost like Vince is using him to add on to Finn’s misery. Maybe all this goes together to give us Demon Balor at Mania.
Omos winning is great, but what a disservice to Azeez. That should’ve been way more than a squash. Yeah, it was awesome Omos suplexed Azeez but there should’ve been a bit more. Omos is nearing a level similar to Lesnar and Roman where it’s like no one normal can even touch them. I’ve said this last time but how is Omos supposed to be something more when he’s cleared out so many? We got a decent match out of Liv and Vega, but the better part was scaring Mella into using Graves as a shield, and for Vega to lose and be mad at Mella. Whether it’s Rhea & Liv or Sasha & Naomi, those titles are definitely going to another team, and maybe Vega will turn on Mella.
Good to see Nikki and Piper are sticking together, just as I was hoping. Nikki didn’t play much of a role, though, but I guess that’s the point. They’re Heels who see themselves as the heroes, so she let Piper face Bianca on her own. It went about the way all the other times Piper and Bianca went 1v1, but then Becky stands tall with a surprise return. That gold outfit was cool, and Becky beats Bianca down pretty savagely with that chair around the neck. Becky saying she’s going after the hair almost makes me wonder if we’d get a Hair VS Title match to spice things up. Probably not but who knows what’s coming next.
Mysterios VS Hurt Business was a good rematch from last week, but of course Miz and Logan Paul were going to attack again. The math is evening out with the Mysterios running them off, but Miz and Logan will surely keep trying. Edge had a pretty good promo this week, and that new theme song is fittingly also by Alter Bridge. It’s all working together for this new Heel persona of his. I wonder if he changes up how he wrestles, or even what his finishers are. We got a pretty good “celebration” segment for RKBRO, and I figured the Profits would show up. Their Mania match is definitely happening, and we got a great match out of Riddle VS Ford tonight. The Academy attacking was also a good twist, I sense another Triple Threat Tag.
Rollins and Kevin had great segments together tonight, and it was hilariously disappointing that Rollins couldn’t come up with some other idea than to copy Kevin’s. Hosting a talk show was probably the strangest prize for a match that I’ve heard of, but the match itself was great stuff. The desperation was strong from both guys, but naturally Kevin wins. Kevin and Austin is what makes sense given the use of the stunner. And Raw being in Jacksonville, all the talk of Cody Rhodes possibly returning, I was hoping for that, too. Cody and Rollins would make for an interesting dynamic given their current characters.
I thought we were going to hear a Cody theme song hit as we got that last shot of Rollins, but nope. Maybe they still bring Cody in next week, but it would’ve been way more fun to do it here in Jacksonville, given the last three years of AEW being based in Jacksonville. But maybe in Vince’s mind, that’s why they wouldn’t. He reluctantly gives fans things, so he wasn’t about to give fans what they want where Cody would get the best reaction.
My Score: 8.3/10
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Can the Last Real Champion handle The Truth?
While the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments reach their semifinals, John Cena has his first match on SmackDown in years, against Ron Killings!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss; Asuka wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson; No Contest.
- King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn; Orton wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice; Charlotte wins.
- Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight; Knight wins, by disqualification.
- John Cena VS Ron Killings; Killings wins, by disqualification.
PLAY BY PLAY
LA Knight is here!
Grand Rapids fires up as the Mega Star marches right to the ring. Knight grabs a mic while the fans chant his name, and he says, “LEMME TALK TO YA!” The fans cheer, and Knight says, “Let’s just go ahead and rewind our mind a little bit. We go to back to Money in the Bank, Seth and his boys, they just happen to come down and screw this guy.” The fans boo that. Knight says usually, he lets things slide. But he just figured he couldn’t let it slide, so he made sure to screw on of Rollins’ boys in their title opportunity, King of the Ring. But then they came back, paid it back and screwed Knight outta KOTR, so he had to go and screw the other one over!
And it just has Knight thinking. Fans “YEAH!” and Knight says there is only one way this can go. He has gone back and forth between Raw and SmackDown, where it ends, nobody knows! Except Knight! He knows! He knows where this ends! The fans cheer that! And Knight says it ends with him and Rollins! And what better place than here? And what better time than now! Knight tells Rollins to come on out and talk to him! But “Ladies and gentlemen…” The fans boo as Paul Heyman walks out and gives his introductions. He serves as the Wise Man to Mr. Money in the Bank, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins!
Heyman says you do not boo that name. And you screwed up your cue, so they’ll do this again. He serves as the Wise Man for Seth Freakin’ Rollins! The fans keep booing, Heyman wants to try again, but Knight says shut up and get to the point! Why is Heyman here?! Heyman walks to the ring and asks permission to step inside. The fans chant “O T C! O T C!” but Knight steps back. Heyman steps into the ring, and he says yes, there has been a lot of bad blood between Knight and Mr. MITB, Seth Freakin’ Rollins. However, Heyman happens to be, with all due respect to everyone here in Grand Rapids, Michigan…
The fans chant “C M PUNK!” at Heyman now and he frowns. Knight says Heyman has a lot of enemies. Heyman says he is the biggest LA Knight fan in all of WWE! Heyman’s been waiting a long time to say this: YEAH! Now, because of that, Seth Freakin’ Rollins (the fans boo again) has allowed Heyman to say to Knight, as a favor to Heyman… It is time for Knight to get the hell outta Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because if he does not, something really bad is going to happen to him before the end of the night. Have a nice evening. Heyman turns to go but the fans cheer Knight on. Knight says he couldn’t help but notice, but did you~ (poking fun at Heyman’s voice cracking) threaten Knight?
Because Knight wants to wrap his head around this. He’s heard Heyman say stuff like this before, because Heyman is a liar, a swindler, a grifter, a scammer and a schemer! Heyman leeches on to any talent that has a bit of hype, sucks ’em dry, then moves on to the next! Rollins just happens to be the latest in this. But where next? Who cares! But the bottom line is, Knight asked for Rollins but he got Heyman. And while he got Heyman, he got a Heyman out here talking all tough. So it has Knight thinking, he has a great idea.
Talking about wise man, wisdom, there was a point in time if Heyman had said something like that, a man like Knight would look at a “thing” like Heyman and punched his wisdom teeth down his throat! Knight won’t do that, yet. But here’s the deal: Heyman’s talking all tough, but if he can’t bring Rollins out here, then the only thing to do out here in Grand Rapids is Knight fighting Heyman here and now! The fans fire up for that! Knight asks if the fans want that, and they cheer! “HUH?” “YEAH!” “HUH?” “YEAH!” “YEAH!!” Knight promises he’ll turn around, take his vest off, and Heyman gets the first shot. He better make it good, or Knight will molly whop his ass right outta Grand Rapids!
The fans fire up as Knight does as promised. He turns around, his vest is off, but Heyman bails? The fans boo as the Wise Man doesn’t play along. Heyman says, “Remember when I told you to get the hell out of Grand Rapids or else something really bad is gonna happen to you before the end of the night? That wasn’t a prediction. That… was a spoiler!” Heyman throws down his mic, and here comes Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker! Rollins’ behemoths head to the ring, but Knight fires off on them first! The fans rally as Knight throws hands and feet, but then Bron TACKLES Knight! Bronson joins in and they mug Knight right out of the ring!
Bronson drags Knight up to TOSS him over barriers! Bron clears the desk, he wants Bronson to put Knight through it! But Knight has a chair! He JAMS Bron, JAMS Bronson, then SMACKS Bron and SMACKS Bronson! Knight gets in the ring, ready to hit whoever gets in! The fans cheer Knight but Heyman has Bron & Bronson stand down. Will Heyman have the henchmen try again before the end of tonight?
SmackDown returns and…
Heyman has Bron & Bronson calm down, they have this under control. It is all in their favor, and it always will be in their favor. That is the whole point behind this. Byron Saxton steps in and wants to talk to them, but Heyman has to hold Bron back like the dog he is! Heyman says no need to bite Byron. Byron apologizes, he has word from SmackDown GM, Nick Aldis, that Bronson Reed VS LA Knight is set for tonight. Heyman says okay, thank you, and goodbye. Byron leaves and Heyman smiles. He told them! Patience is not a virtue, it is strategy. Bronson smiles and nods. Will Auzsilla destroy LA here in Grand Rapids?
Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss!
Two great returns to action through this tournament, and now they cross paths with each other. The Empress of Tomorrow overcame Ivy Nile, Raquel Rodriguez and Stephanie Vaquer while Lil’ Miss Bliss outsmarted Alba Fyre, Candice LeRae and Charlotte Flair. But whose comeback story overtakes the other’s here just one match away from Night of Champions?
The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Alexa headlocks, but Asuka powers up and out. Alexa RAMS Asuka, Asuka roars, and the fans fire up as Asuka fires hands! Alexa blocks a kick to THROW Asuka down, then basement DROPKICK! The fans cheer as Asuka and Alexa reset. Alexa kicks, Asuka blocks and slips through to waistlock. Alexa elbows free, runs, but Asuka runs past her to then RUN her over! The fans fire up and Asuka runs in again, HIP ATTACK! Alexa falls to the floor and the fans fire up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Asuka lets Alexa stay down while she soaks up the cheers. The ring count starts, Alexa rises, but Asuka goes out after her. Alexa slips inside and DROPKICKS Asuka’s leg! Asuka falls from the apron but she has to nod respect for that savvy move. Asuka steps back in at 6 of 10, and she resets with Alexa. They circle, feel things out, and tie up. Asuka wrenches and wristlocks, but Alexa rolls and wrenches to hammerlock. Alexa waistlocks, rolls Asuka, TWO! The two stand off again and they both nod respect. They reset, the fans rally up, and the two feel things out. Asuka trips Alexa, clamps on with a headlock, and she grinds Alexa down.
Alexa endures, Asuka turns her over to go after the arm, then she stands on Alexa’s arm. Alexa endures, Asuka shifts arms, but Alexa wrenches out to wrangle Asuka. Alexa shifts to a cording hold, but Asuka fights up and fires body shots. Alexa whips Asuka to a corner, but Asuka elbows her away! And BOOTS! Asuka goes up, leaps, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Alexa stays in this but Asuka stays focused. Asuka drags Alexa around and gives her Kawada Kicks! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Asuka wrenches for a chicken wing! Alexa fights the Asuka Lock and JAWBREAKERS free! Alexa runs up to RUN Asuka over!
The fans rally as Alexa rallies, then hits a BLOCKBUSTER! The fans fire up as Alexa SLAPS, ROCKS, and KNEES Asuka down! Then SOMERSAULT SENTON! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and Alexa grows frustrated. The fans rally while Alexa brings Asuka up. Asuka breaks free to URAKEN, SOBAT, FRONT KICK, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Alexa tumbles away, Asuka runs up, SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up as Asuka stands and takes aim. But Alexa ducks the buzzsaw! Cover, TWO! Alexa clinches, TWISTED- NO, Asuka rolls Alexa up! TWO! Alexa sits up, BUZZSAW! Cover, TWO!! Alexa survives but Asuka just fires up!
The fans rally as Asuka goes to the corner. Asuka climbs from the outside, and MISSILE- NO, Alexa dodges this time! Alexa kicks and DDTS! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Alexa drags Asuka into the drop zone. Alexa goes up, up, and the fans fire up! TWISTED- NO, Asuka moves, so Alexa stops. Alexa won’t let Asuka sneak away, but then she gets caught in an ARMBAR!! Alexa flails, rolls, but ends up in an omoplata! RINGS OF SATURN!! Alexa fights around, pops her arm free for a cover, TWO!! Asuka reels Alexa in, NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Alexa stays in this! Asuka fires up, the fans are with her, and she runs up, only for Alexa to ROCK her with a right! Alexa puts Asuka in the Tree of Woe, and she DROPKICKS Asuka out of it! Alexa climbs back up, and TWISTED BLISSÂ onto knees!! Asuka still counters the moonsault, and hits the EMPRESS IMPACT!! Cover, Asuka wins!
Winner: Asuka, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
The Empress says no one is ready for Asuka, and that has certainly been the case! But on Raw, we find out, will it be Jade Cargill or Roxanne Perez that meets Asuka in Saudi Arabia?
Jade Cargill, Mia Yim & B-Fab watch backstage.
And Fab says damn, Asuka just came back and she’s already making statements. Almost like she never left. Michin says maybe they need to make their own statements. They need to talk to Aldis about the tag titles. Fab agrees. Fab & Mia wish Jade luck before heading out. Byron walks in and asks if he can have a word. Jade says shoot. Byron says Asuka just advanced, but Jade has her match on Monday with Roxanne Perez. How does Jade feel about facing a talented competitor like Roxie? And how does she feel about the possibility of facing Asuka in the finals? Jade says “Rox” has potential. Roxie is quick and scrappy.
But she’s still trying to prove herself. And this isn’t a proving ground, this is a throne room, and Jade was built for royalty. As for Asuka, there’s a storm on the horizon. But news flash, Jade is that storm. This entire tournament wasn’t built for the future, but for a woman who can walk through fire, shatter glass ceilings, and take her crown on the way to the top. This Queen of the Ring, Jade isn’t just walking in to win. She’s here to reign. Will the Prodigy be washed away by the storm this Monday?
Alexa Bliss returns backstage.
And Chelsea Green finds her. Flanked by her Secret Her-vice, The Hot Mess asks, “Hey, little fu-fu, how’s your boo-boo?” Alexa asks back, “How’s yours?” Piper tells Chelsea not to get upset, Alexa is just jealous. Chelsea says this serves Alexa right. Chelsea should be Queen of the Ring, and she’d be building her parliament if not for Alexa! Oh, if she has that big of an issue, then try facing her in the ring. Chelsea says she will! But then Charlotte Flair walks in and says if anyone should’ve still been in this tournament, it’s her. But had Chelsea’s “replacement” tapped out sooner, maybe she would.
So here’s the deal: Charlotte will have a match made and tap Chelsea out instead. N-Not if Chelsea makes it a bank holiday! ROYAL DUTIES! NICHOLAS! Chelsea hurries away with the Secret Her-vice following, and Alexa tells Charlotte that she doesn’t need Charlotte’s help. Oh, that’s cute. Because Charlotte wasn’t helping Alexa. Charlotte leaves now, leaving Alexa to chew on that. Will The Queen chew up the Hot Mess and spit her out now that she has nothing better to do?
Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson!
The Dark Father is also directionless now that he is out of the King of the Ring tournament, but he never lets that bother him. Will he make himself the direction all roads lead when things #FadeToBlack? Or will Kit prove he can be Pretty Deadly all on his own?
Wait, who is attacking Kit? It’s R-TRUTH! But why’s Ron Killings going after Kit?! He POSTS Kit, drags him back out, and puts him in an STF!! The fans fire up and Kit taps, but it won’t matter when this isn’t a match! Killings lets Kit out of the hold and demands a mic. A mic is given, and Killings says, “Get John Cena out here now. I’m driving! On my terms! Cena, get out here!” The fans fire up and then Killings puts Kit back in the STF! Aleister is rather confused, but producers hurry out here to stop Truth. Truth lets Kit go, Jamie Noble asks Truth wait for the main event. Truth seethes, but he accepts the terms.
Killings leaves, walking right past Aleister. Will there be no denying The Truth when he finally gets his hands on the Last Real Champion?
Jamie Noble talks with Truth backstage.
Jamie says Truth has to calm down. Truth says he wants John Cena NOW! He’s driving! Yes, okay, but just wait. Truth promises that when he sees Cena, he is killing him tonight! Aleister steps in and asks Truth why he is getting involved in Aleister’s match. Truth says it wasn’t personal, it had nothing to do with Aleister. These two stare down, and then Damian Priest steps in. The Archer of Infamy has Aleister stand down. Truth is going through a lot, let Priest talk to him. Oh, of course. Aleister says, “Ron.” “Black.” Aleister leaves, Priest tells Truth that there’s no need for any of that. Priest gets Truth is frustrated, but he can’t just go beat up people for no reason.
Priest used to do that, and Truth was the guy there to make him smile. Truth made the world smile! All that anger and negativity, focus that on the match tonight. Focus that on John Cena. Go out there and handle business with Cena, then Priest and Truth can go downtown to celebrate. How’s that sound? Truth says sounds good, DP. They shake hands, and Priest heads out. Truth is still seething, but will he make sure it all explodes on Cena?
Cody Rhodes is here!
Grand Rapids sings along as The American Nightmare makes his way out, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, he high-fives fans in the front row, then looks closely at the King of the Ring’s crown. Cody goes to the ring and grabs the mic. He hears the fans cheer him on, but then Jey Uso is here! The fans fire up as Main Event Jey makes his way down through the crowd! A young fan joins in bouncing along, but so does all of Grand Rapids! Jey continues down the stands, finds another young fan, and they bounce along again. Jey then reaches ringside, high-fives the front row, and he joins Cody in the ring as we get the next wave of YEET!
Grand Rapids might want to YEET all night, but Jey hugs it out with Cody before he gets his own mic. The music dies down, the fans chant, “One More Time! One More Time!” and Cody says sure, one more is fine. Jey says okay, and yes, the fans get to YEET again! Jey says hey, Cody doesn’t even have to say nothing. They been in the trenches! “YEET!” Still in the trenches! “YEET!” From fighting The Bloodline… “YEET!” To winning tag titles… “YEET!” To finishing their stories at WrestleMania! “YEET!” They’ve both been to the mountaintop. “YEET!” But Cody, on Monday, there is only room for one of them.
The fans are intrigued, and Cody nods. Jey says there’s only one that can go. Cody VS Jey, Jey VS Cody, and Jey knows Cody will bring it. Jey has to get his, Uce. He has to, just like Cody has to get his. But that said, Uce, it ain’t personal. This all business. But that all said, too, Uce, on Monday, after they go to war, please believe that it will be four letters, one word, uh uh… YEET! Cody smiles and the fans cheer. They shake hands again, and wait! Here comes Sami Zayn! The fans cheer as the Great Liberator makes his way to the ring. Sami grabs a mic to say, “This is nice, isn’t it? I get to share the ring with two great friends.”
The fans applaud, and Sami says he is in the ring with two of the very best that this business has to offer! The fans cheer that, too! Sami says he’d be lying if he denied there was a part of him that sees the three of them in this ring, and notices how only one of them has never been world champion. Jey, Sami wants him to know, man to man, this year, Sami missed Mania. Sami had no reason to be in Las Vegas, but he got his ass on a plane to Vegas for one reason: To congratulate Jey the moment he won the World Heavyweight Championship! Sami loves Jey, and he is proud of him. And Cody, for years, everyone watched as Cody finished his story.
And when Cody did, he did the unthinkable and pinned Roman Reigns in the middle of this ring, Sami was the first one out here to congratulate Cody. Sami is so proud that Cody finished his story. So he hopes both men understand that now, it is time for Sami to finish HIS story! The fans cheer, but then here comes Randy Orton! The Viper looks at the crown, then goes to the ring. The fans sing along with Voices and Orton grabs himself a mic. “So Cody, same deal as last week but I’m gonna say it again. There is no line I will not cross, even if it means going through you, so that I can get to John Cena at SummerSlam, beat him, and get my FIFTEENTH world championship!”
The fans cheer, and Orton tells Jey, “Man, I respect the… Hell outta you, dude. Our families go way, way, way back. Nothing but love, dude. But if you’re standing across the ring from me at SummerSlam, it’s not gonna be four letters, one word. It’s gonna be three letters, one move.” The fans say it, “R K O!” And Orton says he not only speaks for himself but for everyone here in this arena when he says, and from the bottom of his heart, one day and one day soon, Sami Zayn will be world champion. But not at SummerSlam. Because tonight, Sami is on the receiving end of the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment: R K O.
Orton drops the mic, and it is time to put those words into action. Will it be the Legend Killer or the Underdog from the Underground that heads for Saudi Arabia?
King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn!
SmackDown returns, the bell rings, and these two circle. They tie up, Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, then wristlocks. Orton endures, fights up, and the fans duel. Orton wrenches Sami in return to then headlock. Sami endures, powers up to wrench again, and he grinds the arm. Sami wrenches and CHOPS, and Orton goes to the corner. Sami CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! The fans “WOO~” but the ref counts. Orton pushes past Sami, bails out of the ring, and he is pretty red already. Sami builds speed but he fakes Orton out with the Arabian Press! The fans fire up and Orton has to admit that was good.
Orton goes up the steps and steps back into the ring. The fans rally, Orton and Sami tie up, and Orton puts Sami in the corner. Orton lets off slowly, but he pokes Sami in the eyes! The fans boo but Orton UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! But Sami pokes Orton in the eyes! The ref caught that one and reprimands Sami. Sami TOSSES Orton out, goes to the apron, but Orton YANKS Sami down! Sami hits off the apron, and Orton reels him in, DESK BACK SUPLEX! Sami writhes and Orton rolls into the ring, just to refresh the count. Fans want that “One More Time!” and Orton agrees! DESK BACK SUPLEXÂ again!
Sami writhes more and whatever monitor wasn’t busted, they’re busted now! Orton leaves Sami behind for a moment while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Orton goes out to fetch Sami, but Sami fights off a third back suplex! Orton kicks low, brings Sami over, but Sami blocks the smack off the steel steps! Orton sputters, Sami stalks him, and Sami decides to give him some payback! But Orton ROCKS Sami first! Orton SMACKS Sami off the desk, puts him in the ring, and covers, TWO! Sami stays in this but Orton looms over him. Sami rises, Orton puts him in a corner, and Orton fires body shots. Orton climbs up and rains down fists! Orton gets to eight before Sami fires back! Sami has Orton in another corner, climbs up, and Sami rains down a fast TEN!
Sami huffs ‘n’ puffs and CHOPS! Orton is stinging but Sami CHOPS him again! Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, and whips! Orton reverses, Sami hits buckles hard, and Sami falls in a heap. Orton dusts himself off and looms over Sami again. Orton stomps Sami’s hand! Sami writhes and clutches his finger. Orton stomps Sami’s foot, ten the other foot! And then the other hand! Sami sits up, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Orton CLUBS away on Sami’s chest! Orton DECKS Sami, the fans cheer, and Orton brings Sami up. Orton whips, Sami goes up and over, and Sami LARIATS Orton down! The fans fire up again as Sami rises!
Sami goes to the corner, Orton runs up, but Sami ELBOWS him! Sami goes up, AX HANDLES, and the fans fire up more! Orton takes a swing, but Sami slips around! Orton fights the Blue Thunder, then LARIATS! And LARIATS! Orton dodges Sami to SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up while Sami goes to the apron. Orton drags Sami in through the ropes, and DRAPING DDTS! The fans fire up as Orton hears those voices! Orton watches Sami rise, but then Sami bails out! The fans are torn but Sami is smart to avoid what was coming. Orton goes out to fetch Sami, SMACKS him off the desk, and then back suplexes, only for Sami to lands out!
Sami CLUBS Orton, and hits a DESK BACK SUPLEX on Orton! Sami puts Orton in the ring, goes to a corner, and the fans fire up as Orton rises. Orton runs in, Sami dodges, and Orton POSTS himself! Sami runs corner to corner, HELLUVA- SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Sami survives and Orton seethes. “This is Awesome!” as Sami goes back to a corner. Orton runs back in and he LARIATS! Orton runs but Sami follows! But Orton dodges the Helluva Kick! Sami gets stuck on the to rope, frees himself, and hobbles into an RK- NO! BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Orton survives and the fans fire up again!
“This is Awesome!” as Sami drags Orton to the drop zone. Sami goes up the corner, Orton stands and he gets under the leap! R K- NO, Sami SLAMS Orton down! And then HELLUVA- RKO!!! Orton crawls to the cover, Orton wins!!
Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
Sami fought his heart out, but the Viper still strikes! Orton is going back to back in KOTR finals, but will he win the crown this time?
Nia Jax is here!
Grand Rapids boos as The Irresistible Force goes to the ring. She grabs the mic dot say, “You know what’s crazy? Tiffany Stratton approached me to be under my wing, because she knew exactly what I could do for her. And look, she’s thriving! And what kind of thanks did I get for it? She betrayed me. She has MY title!” But wait, here comes Tiffy! Grand Rapids cheers as the WWE Women’s Champion has the mic to tell Nia, “You’re like that toxic ex I just can’t get away from. News flash: get over it! You make excuse after excuse, but when are you just gonna admit that maybe I’m just better than you?”
The fans cheer and Tiff heads to the ring. Nia says yeah, okay, if Tiff is so much better, then give Nia a rematch without kicking a chair into her face. Tiff says if Nia’s so desperate for a match, it is her lucky day! She made it official for next week: Tiff VS Nia! And Tiff will have more fun adding more scars to that “five head” of Nia’s. Because it won’t just be a regular match. It will be Last Woman Standing! Nia takes a swing but Tiff dodge! Tiff fires off, kicks low, and runs up, but into a POP-UP HEADBUTT! And then Nia drops a leg, brother! Nia holds up the belt and soaks up the heat. Nia thinks about leaving, but decides to add on! ANOTHER leg drop, brother!
The fans boo but Nia says that’s not enough! Nia tells Wade & Joe that she’s taking the title! But wait! NAOMI is here, with a ref! Is she doing it!? Is she doing it?! But Nia YANKS Naomi out! Naomi tells her back off! Nia doesn’t, Naomi shoves her, but Nia still grabs at her! Tiff DROPKICKS Naomi onto Nia! Tiff avoids a cash-in because Nia was in the way, but is she setting herself up for failure with that extreme title match?
Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice!
The Queen was denied her crown, but she’s not even angry at Alexa Bliss, the one who took that opportunity from her. She instead looks to humble the Hot Mess that claims she would be queen if her demands were met. Who vents their frustrations and comes away with the win?
SmackDown returns and Charlotte makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans actually cheer on Chelsea. Alba distracts Charlotte and Chelsea sucker punches her! The ref reprimands but Chelsea SMACKS Charlotte off the mat again and again! Chelsea salutes, but Charlotte CHOPS! Chelsea KNEES low, whips, but Charlotte goes up and out at the corner. Charlotte BOOTS Chelsea away, avoids Alba and KICKS her! Chelsea runs up, Charlotte RAMS her, and then Charlotte climbs up. CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Chelsea scrambles away and Charlotte runs up, but into an ELBOW! Charlotte GAMANGIRIS!
Charlotte snapmares, Chelsea distracts the ref, and Alba grabs Charlotte by the hair! Alba HOTSHOTS Charlotte and Chelsea hits a BACKSTABBER! Cover, TWO! Chelsea is furious but Charlotte stays in this, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Chelsea hops onto Charlotte for a SLEEPER! The fans rally, but Charlotte hits a BACKPACK SENTON! Charlotte is free, Chelsea runs back up, but Charlotte gives her a BACKBREAKER and BUCKLE SHOT! Chelsea falls back, Charlotte huffs ‘n’ puffs and runs up to fire hands! The fans fire up as Charlotte CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS! Charlotte CHOPS again, then clinches for an EXPLODER! And a kip up! The fans fire up and Charlotte salutes to poke fun at Chelsea. Charlotte runs, dodges, and handsprings to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Chelsea survives but Charlotte stays on her by going for a leg.
Alba gets on the apron, so Charlotte BOOTS her down! The fans cheer, but Charlotte turns around into a ROUGH RYDER! Cover, TWO!! Charlotte survives and Chelsea is furious! Chelsea takes off her face protector and drags Charlotte up. Chelsea has the arms, turns Charlotte, but Charlotte shoves her away! Charlotte dodges and SPEARS! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea survives but Charlotte has the leg! FIGURE- CRADLE!! TWO!! Charlotte has the leg again, FIGURE FOUR! And the bridge for the FIGURE EIGHT!! Chelsea TAPS, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
But then Piper Niven SENTONS onto Charlotte!! Alba storms in, she and Piper mug Charlotte, but here comes Alexa! She RAMS into Piper, she ROCKS Alba, then she catches Chelsea! Charlotte LARIATS Alba out while Alexa hits a TWISTED SISTER ABIGAIL! And then Charlotte BOOTS Piper down! Charlotte and Alexa look at each other, and despite what either one thinks, maybe they both need the other after all. Alexa offers the handshake, but Charlotte walks right past Alexa. Alexa lets that slide, but will Charlotte come around soon enough?
Solo Sikoa talks with JC Mateo.
Why is JC taping up? Uh, duh, he’ll take out Jacob. No, Solo is going out there alone to talk with Jacob. Solo was the only one that Jacob would listen to. Jacob needs Solo. Solo will smooth things over. JC accepts that, but Solo does say that JC should stay ready. Solo is covering his bases, but will he need the Imperial Unit to put down the Samoan Werewolf? Or will it all be alright between them all?
Solo Sikoa heads to the ring.
SmackDown returns as the former Tribal Chief makes his way out, and Grand Rapids boos. Solo grabs the mic, takes a moment, and says, “Alright, Jacob. I’m out here in the middle of the ring, all alone, with open arms, willing to talk to you face to face. I feel terrible about what happened. So if you’re back there, come on out so we can clear the air.” Jacob Fatu makes his entrance and Grand Rapids cheers! Fatu holds up the United States Championship before he steps into the ring, and he has a mic of his own. The fans cheer on “FATU! FATU!” and Solo says he didn’t come out here to fight him, okay? He’s not here for that.
Solo wants to make it clear to Fatu that he loves him, always has loved him, no matter what. One thing Solo learned from being Tribal Chief is how to love family and how to take care of them. That’s all he’s trying to do. Families fight all the time. They fight, they argue, they forgive, and then they move forward. So they should move forward together, Jacob. Move forward as one. The fans boo that, but Solo says nobody saw the potential in Jacob except Solo. Nobody wanted Jacob here in the WWE, except Solo. That is why Solo brought Fatu here and gave him the chance to change his life and put food on his family’s table.
And why did Solo do that? Because Solo loves Jacob. He does. And to be honest, Solo doesn’t have anybody else. Fatu isn’t sure about that, but Solo says all he has is Fatu. And he’s all Solo needs. So come back to the family, and even if Jacob doesn’t say those four words, Solo will. Solo will say it for him, to him, loud enough so everybody can hear it! Solo tells Jacob, “I love you, Jacob.” The fans boo, they don’t trust this. Fatu paces as he thinks on that. “So you love me, huh?” Solo nods yes. So this is what it comes down to, huh? Solo loves Fatu? The way Fatu sees things, Solo has been using Fatu! Solo has been using Fatu to gain power, to fight his battles, and to stay Tribal Chief.
Hell, Solo brought Fatu in so Fatu could bring Solo fame! Solo brought Fatu in because he thought Fatu would bring him gold! Is that all this is about? Fame? Gold? Power? SOLO, LOOK AT HIM! Solo looks up from the floor while the fans cheer Fatu on. Fatu tells Solo that ever since he won the US Championship, Solo is the one that’s been acting different. And maybe Fatu isn’t the problem. Fatu just figured it out! The problem… is this. The problem is the US Championship. Fatu sets it down between him and Solo, and he says if this is what he thinks it is, then just fight him for it! Fight Fatu for the title! The fans fire up for that!
And Solo, Fatu will only warn you one time: If you ever think about coming this way, you know what Fatu is about! You know what’s poppin’ with Fatu, blood! And you know Jacob Fatu is all gas, no brakes with it! YADADADA- SOLO TAKES A SWING! Fatu blocks the spike and he HEADBUTTS! JC Mateo rushes out here! Fatu HEADBUTTS him, too! But Solo CHOP BLOCKS the legs! The fans boo but JC & Solo mug Fatu! But then here comes JIMMY USO! The fans fire up as #BigJim slides in, dodges Solo, and SUPERKICKS JC! And then he SUPERKICKS Solo! But JC LARIATS Jimmy down! JC HAMMERS Jimmy and Solo has him put Jimmy in the corner.
The fans boo but Solo tells Jimmy that he should’ve chosen Solo’s side, not Jacob’s! But speaking of, Fatu is up! The fans fire up as Fatu BODY CHECKS JC! Then he SUPERKICKS Solo! Solo is in a corner, Fatu fires off on him, HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT! SUPERKICK for JC! HIP ATTACK for Solo! The fans are fired up for the Samoan Werewolf, and he locks eyes with Jimmy. Jimmy came to Fatu’s rescue, Fatu just saved him, so Fatu goes up, up, only for Solo to bail out! No Best Moonsaults here in Grand Rapids, but will Fatu cut Solo down soon enough?
Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight!
The Wise Man warned, or rather threatened, the Mega Star that he should just cut and run, but that’s not how he does things. Knight is ready to fight, but will he survive a battle with Auszilla? Or is a Tsunami about wipe out LA?
Wait, Knight doesn’t enter from the stage! He enters from the crowd! And he POSTS Bron! The fans fire up as Knight evens things out! He TOSSES Bronson out, throws his vest at him, and Bronson snarls. Bronson has Bron stand down, and says, “Tonight, I kill him.” Bronson steps into the ring, the bell sounds, and Knight fires off! The fans fire up as Knight fires hands, but Bronson puts him in the corner. Knight ELBOWS back, Knight fires more hands, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips but Bronson blocks! Bronson whips Knight to a corner, runs up, but Knight dodges! Bronson POSTS himself, and Knight stomps a mudhole in!
The fans rally, the ref counts, and Knight goes corner to corner, but into a fireman’s carry! Knight slips down to sunset flip, but Bronson stays up! Bronson jumps but Knight avoids the hip drop! Then Knight basement BOOTS! The fans fire up and Knight storms up on Bronson. Bronson TOSSES Knight to the apron, but Knight slingshots back in! Bronson catches Knight to a fireman’s carry! Knight flails free and he RAMS Bronson into a corner! But Bronson holds ropes to deny the Jump Neckbreaker! Bronson runs but Knight avoids the senton! The fans fire up as Knight goes up, up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! That’s a Steiner move!
The fans fire up and spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT!” but Bronson bails out! Knight runs to WRECK Bronson with a dropkick! Knight goes back up, springboards, CROSSBODY to the ramp! The fans fire up with Knight and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Bronson has Knight up top. The fans rally as Knight fights back with body shots! Knight ROCKS Bronson, ROCKS him again, and ROCKS him again! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Bronson finally falls and Knight adjusts position. “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BOX JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Bronson survives and Knight is rather stunned while Heyman is relieved. Knight aims, kicks, but Bronson denies the BFT! HEADBUTT, then a fireman’s carry! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Knight survives the “Jagged Edge” DVD but Bronson brings him right up. Bronson reels Knight in and says thumbs down.
Bronson lifts Knight up, but Knight flips the bomb into a DDT! The fans fire up but Bron barks at the apron! Knight DECKS the dog, tells Heyman to get the same, but Bronson runs up! Knight DUMPS Bronson out, builds speed, but BRON SPEARS!!
Winner: LA Knight, by disqualification
The fans boo but Bron handed Knight the win with that one. Bronson stands Knight up so Bron can build speed and SUPER SPEAR!! Grand Rapids is torn but plenty of fans bark. And now Bronson goes up!? TSUNAMI!! Bronson goes up again, the refs hurry out here, but TSUNAMI AGAIN!! The fans want another, so Bron scares the refs off to let Bronson go back up! THIRD TSUNAMI!!! Have Rollins’ rooks just broken Knight into pieces? Is this a message to everyone that no one can stop the vision?
Jacob Fatu speaks.
“Yeah, c’mon on widdit! I just spoke to the man, and you know the man makes everything possible here on SmackDown! So next week, next week on Saturday, me ‘n’ you, Solo! Night of Champions, mano a mano, I’m about to dog walk yo’ ass for the US Championship! Solo, you better get in where you fit in. Cuz if you don’t, then baby, it’s ’bout to be all gas, no breaks with it. Yadadadada mean?” The Samoan Werewolf will get to sink his teeth into Solo, but will he stay golden through it all?
John Cena VS Ron Killings!
The Undisputed WWE Champion was the exact opposite of grateful for R-Truth saving him from Randy Orton at Backlash, and he doubled down when Ron tried to show him the truth at Saturday Night’s Main Event. So, if Cena doesn’t want the Truth, he’ll get someone who knows about ruthless aggression! Will Ron Killings bring an early end to the retirement tour? Or will Cena continue to ruin wrestling for everyone else?
SmackDown returns as Cena makes his entrance. The fans sing “JOHN CENA SUCKS~!” despite him wearing the Detroit Pistons colors. Cena makes Mark Nash give the “proper” introduction: “He is the Greatest of All Time, the Never Seen Seventeen, gracing Grand Rapids with his presence one final time… He is the Last Real Champion, JOHN CENA~!” The fans boo, the bell rings, and Truth stares at Cena while Cena smirks hearing the “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Truth TACKLES Cena! He fires off hands but Cena bails out! So Truth goes out to DECK Cena! “What’s up!?” “WHAT’S UP!” Truth has Cena at the desk and SMACKS him off it!
Truth ROCKS Cena again, and shakes his hand out from hitting so hard. Truth SMACKS Cena off the apron, storms in after him, and whips him to a corner. Cena hits buckles hard and falls to the mat! The fans continue to duel while Truth keeps his eyes on Cena. Truth storms up on Cena while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Truth stands Cena up, whips corner to corner again, and Cena hits buckles hard! Cena sputters, Truth looms over him, and Truth ROCKS Cena! Cena ROCKS Truth! They go back and forth with haymakers, and then Truth dodges to SHOULDER TACKLE! Truth still uses Cena’s own moves against him, and that includes the SPIN-OUT BOMB! Truth raises his hand and Grand Rapids joins in! “You Can’t See Me!” But then Cena bails out so Truth can’t hit him! Truth is annoyed, the fans give thumbs down, but here comes Truth. Cena ELBOWS him down! Cena drags Truth up, POSTS him, and he brings Truth back into the ring.
Cena HEADBUTTS Truth, CHOKES him on the ropes, but stops as the ref counts. Cena stomps away on Truth, then runs to KICK Truth in the back! Cena talks trash, then he runs to SHOULDER TACKLE! Cena takes his time, knowing it is what the fans want. Truth rises up, Cena runs to SHOULDER TACKLE again! Cena watches Truth rise again, gets around him, SPIN-OUT BOMB! And Cena raises his hand, reveling in the cheers and jeers. “You Can’t See Me!” SmackDown returns to single picture for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Then Cena fireman’s carries, but Truth slips free! THESZ PRESS! And fast hands!
The fans fire up and Truth has Cena in a corner. Truth runs to STINGER SPLASH! Cena tumbles out and grabs the belt! Cena doesn’t care about this match anymore, he doesn’t need to take this! Truth says hold up! Truth runs Cena down and fires hands on the ramp! The fans fire up but Cena CLOBBERS Truth with the belt!!
Winner: Ron Killings, by disqualification
Cena wants to get another shot, but wait! PUNK IS HERE! Cena runs away into the ring, and he catches Punk as Punk slides in! The fans boo Cena but he huffs ‘n’ puffs. Cena drags Punk up, but Punk fires hands in return! Punk DECKS Cena, grabs the belt, and he holds it up! The fans cheer, and Punk aims, but Cena LOW BLOWS! Cena has a sinister smile as he grabs the belt. BELT SHOT for Punk!! The fans boo even more, but Cena decides to up the ante! Cena brings out a table! The fans cheer, everyone loves tables! Cena puts the table in the ring, then watches Punk sputter around. Cena sets the table up while the fans rally behind Punk.
Punk stands but Cena has the belt again! BELT SHOT!! Cena drags Punk up, fireman’s carries, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENTÂ through the table!! Cena made Punk snap into a Slim Jim, and then he grabs a mic. Cena laughs at Punk, and then sits up on the corner. “Punk… As you lay there in your most uncomfortable…” Cena pretends the mic cut out, taps it, and then says, “Somebody’s afraid of what I’m gonna say.” Cena grins and the fans boo as Cena flips the iconic “Pipebomb” moment on it’s head. “As you lay there in your most uncomfortable, I hope you can listen. I hope you can digest.
“Because before I leave here in six months with that WWE Championship, I gotta get a whole lotta stuff off my chest. First thing’s first, I don’t hate you. I don’t even dislike you. I like you. I like you more than anyone you ever shared a locker room with, that’s for sure. I hate this idea of you. This idea that you’re the Best int he World. You’re not. I’M the Greatest of All Time.” Grand Rapids is a bit torn on that statement, but Cena says Punk is better than Cena at one thing: You’re the best BS artist in the world. Oh no, kiddos~! John Cena just dropped a curse word! That means the show is off the rails! Hey, Stu, shoot this. Hi~! “I’m breaking the forth wall! HAHA!”
Cena then says the truth is, Punk… Cena is jealous of you. Cena is jealous that Punk has conned the fans into believing the myth that Punk is the Best in the World. Oh how they chant for Punk! Which they literally do right now. Hell, the fans even sing for Punk now. But they don’t believe a damn word you say. Because Punk changes his values as much as Cena changes his shirts! Punk is just a loud mouthed opportunist who steps on the necks of those who actually work hard if it gets him ahead. Oh, hey, look, another cameraman! “Hi, Claudio Castagnoli! Hey, Nic Nemeth! Hey, Matt Cardona! How’re you guys doing?”
The fans can’t believe Cena is going this far but Cena is loving it! “He’s heating up! He’s on fire! And there’s nobody back there that’s gonna cut my mic to save your ass, cuz I’m your only friend! Remember who gave you the stage for your pipebomb, pal! And what’ve you done with it since then, huh? You just regurgitated the same five microphone moves of doom. You’re promo potato salad, pal. Hey, you’re no longer the Voice of the Voiceless, you’re a friggin’ millionaire despite yourself. You’re not a punk, you’re a capitalist! And you’re not against TKO, dude, you are Mr. TKO. Cuz they knocked your balls technically off your body.
“Your tweets are strong, but your actions are weak. And in Saudi Arabia, you’re gonna face some loud, loud music when I finally prove to the world that each and every day, day in, day out, no days off for 25 YEARS, I have been the Greatest of All Time!” The fans cheer that a bit more now, to Cena’s surprise. “See, they know. And they know that you were the Best in the World… for seven minutes, 14 years ago. And if after Night of Champions, you’re still delusional enough to believe that you’re the Best in the World, well… I guess it’s a small world after all. You’re welcome, Grand Rapids.” The fans cheer, and Cena lets the world hear it.
Cena tells Punk to bring his A Game to Night of Champions. If Grand Rapids is any indication, the mood is starting to change. Refs finally appear to check on Punk, Cena says no, that’s fine. Punk needs to rest up for his big title match. Get a good shot of this: Best in the World VS Greatest of All Time, for THE most coveted prize in sports entertainment, THE WWE Undisputed Championship! And Cena knows the fans will sing and chant, but he also knows even the idiots are smart enough to see the truth: The Champ is Here. And USA Network, keep the extra two and half minutes. He doesn’t need a bomb to blow the “mother fudging” building.
Oh, and thanks, Punk, for letting Cena rip off your best promo just to make you look even more foolish. Cena finally drops the mic and he raises the belt up again. If the proverbial tables have turned this drastically, is there no saving WWE from losing its north star championship?
My Thoughts:
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25
Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?
Last week’s episode was lacking in ring work but had decent story moments and segments. Starting the build to Slammiversary we can either launch nicely or things can always get worse. Jason Hotch and KC Navarro are the real shining stars of the last few months, so lets hope once they get over this Leon Slater idiot ship, they can push X Division wrestlers with actual talent for pro wrestling and not just flippy charisma vacuums.
Oh and let’s not forget, it is the episode they celebrate the 23rd anniversary of TNA! TWENTY – THREE!! Somewhere PCO hates this.
.@Kelly_WP is back in TNA Wrestling and has a message for TNA Knockouts World Champion @mashaslamovich!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZKKuL pic.twitter.com/tnm4TIuPUz
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Ratings:
- Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers: EY wins via Piledriver – ** 3/4
- Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge: Elegantos win via Rarefied Air – ***
- Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man: HTM wins via Cradle – *
- Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams: Elijah wins via Highwayman’s Farewell – ***
Results:
Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers
Sami knocks them all off the apron before the bell rings, he levels the loser children, finds a chair, attacks EY but EY counters and this is the excuse to use weapons since the bell didn’t ring yet. EY tries to break Sami’s hand on the steps with the chair, but Sami moves, throws EY back in the ring, bell rings and EY hits a Belly to Belly suplex for two. They slug it out, Sami goes for Headbutts, then Sami wants to run the ropes but a loser trips him, distracts long enough for EY to knock him out of the ring and loser children swarm as loser children do. EY does the classic, throw back out for losers to attack while EY grabs and distracts the ref. Sami is selling a few lame attacks from the losers like he got shot. It’s an excessive sell, so it’s honestly a dumb transitional moment.
EY levels Sami, Lariat into Scoop Slam, looks for the Macho Elbow but Sami hits the ropes to crotch EY. Sami Superplex time, but EY bites the face to make Sami drop, EY jumps at him but eats a straight right hand. Cactus Driver, but no, EY tries his Piledriver…they both gouge eyes at the same time, Sami catches an EY charge into a Flatliner as they’re both down…for…reasons? The selling in this match seems…poorly timed and kinda stupid. Hard Irish Whip, EY Flair Flips the corner, levels Sami, Macho Elbow for 2.9! EY threatens to hit the ref, but then goes to mad dog commentary. EY then wants to attack fans…he’s more unhinged than World Elite EY. Sami gives him the old Dick Twist into a Stunner but only for two! Losers try to distract, first one gets taken out, second one uses a chair, EY hits the Piledriver on Sami, EY wins.
I feel like this is gonna continue for a few weeks since it wasn’t a clean win.Â
Mustafa Ali’s group comes out, and I refuse to say the name because it’s dumb and they’re already fraying at the seams. Ali wants an apology session, Tasha and Hotch apologize to him but Skyler bites back and refuses, even shoved Ali. So Ali challenges him to a “Call to Arms” match. What in the hell is a Call to Arms match?Â
Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge
ASH does her borderline racist fake karate before Lei stares her down and tags in Heather. Heather avoids Lei, Lei throws a few Tornado Kicks to make a point and Heather tags out. Heather being 4’8″ helps her here. Concierge says “There’s no Karate in wrestling”. ASH, Lei and Masha are in the ring, ASH is trying to decide who she wants to face, but the Concierge google translated it and hands it to ASH, before the face team rocks ASH. Masha lifts up Lei and Lei does the Liu Kang Bicycle Kick, steering more into her Mortal Kombat aesthetic. Senton off the apron from Lei and Masha dives into the pile, the comedy heels are getting leveled. We go to commercial and come back with Lei getting Double Teamed but she spins it into a weird Neckbreaker..but can’t tag out just yet. Lei blocks Heather, Enzuigiri, simultaneous tag, Masha is Yakuza kicks for all and the 2 for 1 Lariat/DDT special. Near fall, but Masha goes for murder, but Heather breaks it, Rocket Launcher/Code Breaker from Elegance but Lei breaks up the pin. ASH tries to intimidate Lei with her fake Karate before throwing her out of the ring. Heather hits Lei with a handful of Glitter and then bounces her face off the post. Masha tries to stop ASH, Kelly’s music distracts Masha, Rarefied Air gives ASH the win.
Santino comes out and GOD DAMMIT no one wants to see Tommy Dreamer fight Mance Warner…that’s a useless thing. Pivot away…no one wants this. Oh no, now we have to listen to Steph talk too. Okay it seems to be a pivot, thankfully. Steph and Mance talk shit, Dreamer says something about Something is gonna happen…and Jake Something comes out. So…I guess we’re gonna build him up for 2 months and then job him out for 6 before he fucks off to his home galaxy or whatever?Â
.@indi_hartwell has a run in with Tessa Blanchard!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZLikj pic.twitter.com/I6UCCk2fAG
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Really wish Indi just opened with the Billy Butcher classic of, “Oi Cunt!” – but this wasn’t bad.Â
Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man
I hate… Cardona so much more now. Heel reasons for Cardona…go away heat for Deaner.
JDC wants the Home Town Man to start…and Deaner does his stupid Flip Flop and Fly, Cardona tags in, JDC is eating some offense, Cardona wants the Reboot, JDC powders, Cardona Dives but then Lish and the general numbers catch up to Cardona. Eddie is legal, and now they isolate Cardona with some decent tandem work and isolation. This turns into kind of a schmoz, lots of silly spots, near falls and then Home Town doofus gets the cradle pinfall on Eddie.
Whenever Deaner is involved I can’t be asked to care. The System beats Cardona and Deaner down, but Eddie did eat a pin. Which is embarrassing not even for work reasons, like it’s just sad.
Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams
Elijah and Nic start things off, slow push off, arm wring, top wristlock, simple chain wrestling start. Nic breaks the chain and hits a Dropkick, Elijah runs the ropes and hits a Diving Lariat and starts the Rope Walk. Nic seems far to awake and alert for that move then, I hate how people pull that off too early. Wentz gets tagged in, Nic tags in Maclin who wasn’t looking for a tag, but him and Wentz have a nice clash, Trey tags in, they try to double him, but they pause and look at each other. Maclin asks for a tag, no one tags him so he Chops Ryan to tag him in and throws him in.
The little nod to Maclin and Rascalz history and the fact the faces realize Maclin isn’t a piece of shit. A little MCMG homage tandem attacks on Ryan, Wentz punctuates with the Handspring Knee Lift, Ryan tags out to Trick. Trick and Wentz go back and forth, Rascalz have Trick eating offense, Moose tries to slow things down, both Trick and Moose powder, Rascalz Double Golden Triangle Moonsaults. Trey gets tripped by Nic, Moose hits Lights Out, but there’s no referee so it’s a little chaotic.
Out of the commercial things are controlled kinda and we see a simultaneous tag to Moose and Leon. Leon comes out hot, level Moose with a Leg Lariat, attacks Nic Nemeth, attacks Ryan, and then Moose hits Leon with the Stun Gun. Moose looks to tag in Maclin but Maclin jumps off the apron. Trick takes the tag, keeps control, Trick forcibly tags in Maclin but Ryan tags himself in and pulls Leon to the Champions’ corner, Nic tags in and isolates Leon, with the Kaibas quick tagging and keeping Leon down.
Moose tags in, tries to Suplex Leon about four times but Leon stops it then counters the Suplex. Moose tries to cut him off, but the Champions distract the ref so the ref can’t see Leon tag out. Nic and Moose doubling up and Leon is the bump guy of this last portion of the match. Big Uranage from Moose…Moose looks for Lights Out but Small Package almost ruined things, Body Scissors Cradle, GAME CHANGER! Moose looks to hit a Jacknife Powerbomb but Leon turns it into a DDT. Maclin and Ryan start fighting, Nic Superkicks Maclin, Hendry and Nic tag in, Hendry is a house of fire. Sack of Shits for everyone! Nic, Ryan, there’s a pause when Hendry is face to face with Trick and Trick gets Uppercuts first then Sack of Shit! Standing Ovation on Nic, but Ryan blocks, Kaibas try a tandem attack but Hendry Lariats them both. Elijah tags in and is the maestro of the crowd and chopping Ryan to some fun. Ryan goes for a Polish Hammer but eats the Knee Lift. Signature spam time…
Ryan tries to use the International title but Maclin grabs the title away from Ryan, clocks Nic, Standing Ovation into the Highwayman’s Farewell. Champions lose!
Overall Score: 4/10
Well this was a rough one boys and girls. Sami and EY was just an overbooked shitshow, Lei Ying Lee is unfortunately in a spot where it’s obvious TNA has no clue how to use her, the Elegantos are the New Beautiful People, and I’m not mad at that. But you need to space out your goofball crap. You can’t have Elegance Clique, Home Town Moron and Santino in 3 consecutive segments. And if anyone goes “it was 3 out of 4” that’s doesn’t lessen my point, the beauty of Pro Wrestling being a variety show is…FOR VARIETY! When the lead match feels stupid because of bad pacing, poor selling and overbooking with two losers, it feels like a useless match with idiots, then comedy, followed by more comedy…you see how that’s literally NOT VARIETY.
Figure it out seriously. This was a disappointing episode. If you’re a casual viewer than it’s just chalk for TNA doing cringe and borderline goof crap since they’ve always steered a little more into the carny than other companies. But this show was…where’s Jisoo and Jenny? I feel like I need that gif:
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