Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (6/27/22)
Happy Cenaversary!
The one and only JOHN CENA returns to celebrate 20 YEARS!
Money in the Bank is this weekend, but the return of John Cena is tonight! Just how big will Monday Night Raw celebrate the return of the Cenation?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier Last Chance Battle Royal: Riddle wins and advances to MITB.
- Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier: Kevin Owens VS Elias/Ezekiel/Elrod; rescheduled.
- Jey Uso w/ Jimmy Uso VS Montez Ford w/ Angelo Dawkins; Ford wins and names the stipulation for the WWE Undisputed Tag Team Championship match.
- The Miz VS AJ Styles; Styles wins.
- Liv Morgan VS Alexa Bliss; Liv wins.
- 2v1 Handicap Match, (Austin) Theory as Special Enforcer: The Alpha Academy VS Bobby Lashley; Lashley wins.
- Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Last Chance Elimination Match: Becky Lynch VS Nikki A.S.H. VS “Doudrop” Piper Niven VS Shayna Baszler VS Xia Li VS Tamina; Becky wins and advances to MITB.
PLAY BY PLAY
Raw shares footage as John Cena arrived backstage.
The Raw roster is happy to see him, too! They shake his hand, take pictures, and even Cena takes pictures of them. Of course R-Truth gets to say hi to his childhood hero! Cena even shakes hands with old rivals like Dolph Ziggler. Cena even gets to shake hands with Michael Cole and The Miz before reaching gorilla.
Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier Last Chance Battle Royal!
Superstars from both Raw and SmackDown fill the ring as there’s one more spot to fill! Who rises above the field to then go to Las Vegas?
But hold on! Not everyone is here yet! The Mysterios, Rey and Dominik, make their entrance! Then, the King of Strong Style, Shinsuke Nakamura! And the Stallion, Matt Riddle! The bell rings and the brawls bust off! Akira Tozawa goes after Reggie, Jinder Mahal is after Dolph Ziggler, Veer is after Nakamura! Shanky is after Dom, Mustafa fights off T-Bar, then goes after Ciampa. Veer thrashes Riddle in a bearhug then puts him in a corner. Styles goes after The Miz, Tozawa goes after Veer but that’s a mistake! Veer grabs him and TOSSES him to ELIMINATE him! Riddle is after Shanky, Shelton Benjamin goes after Veer, but then Veer LARIATS and ELIMINATES Benjamin!
Mustafa, Dom and Rey go after Veer, but he EXPLODES out! Veer has the Mysterios, but Mustafa DROPKICSK Veer into ropes! The Mysterios dial it up, DOUBLE 619! And then they all throw Veer up and out to ELIMINATE him! Veer is furious but he’ll have to wait to avenge himself another night. Ricochet is after Jinder, Truth and Shanky start dancing! Jinder is upset and he attacks Truth! NO dancing! Shanky and Jinder mug Truth, and they throw him out to ELIMINATE truth! But then Jinder throws Shanky! Shanky holds on because he’s so big, but he still falls and Jinder ELIMINATES him! NO DANCING!
But then Styles LARIATS and ELIMINATES Jinder! Ziggler hangs on, T-Bar has Reggie up in a trophy lift! T-Bar TOSSES Reggie onto Jinder and Shanky to ELIMINATE him! The tyrant roars as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns and the Mysterios are tipping Riddle out! Riddle holds on, lands safe on the apron, and Nakamura brawls with Ziggler! Raw shares footage from the break, Mustafa fell out to the apron and Ciampa BLASTED him with a knee, Ali is ELIMINATED! Nakamura fires off KICKS on Ziggler, Miz digs his boots into Styles, T-Bar is after Ricochet, and Ciampa gives Riddle a STUNNER! T-Bar CLUBS Ricochet, Nakamura KICKS T-Bar’s leg. Rey CHOPS Ciampa, Ricochet uppercuts Miz, Dom ROCKS Ziggler! Dom ROCKS Ziggler, Ziggler ROCKS Dom, but Dom fires off forearms! Styles holds on, Dom whips Ziggler out!
Ciampa misses Styles, Styles GAMANGIRIS back! styles drags Ciampa out to join him, POSTS him, and Ciampa falls! Styles ELIMINATES Ciampa! But Miz is right after Styles! Mia runs, into a drop toehold! Rey goes for it, but Miz dodges 619 to kick and BASEMENT DDT! T-Bar stomps Nakamura, Rey holds on as Miz throws him! Dom helps his dad stay safe but Ziggler shoves Dom. Dom comes back, and clotheslines Ziggler, only to ELIMINATE himself as he tumbles up and out! Riddle CHOPS T-Bar, Miz and Ziggler shake hands as the Cleveland Connection. Miz stomps Styles, Ziggler brings Rey up and in to POWER- NO, Rey fights and RANAS Ziggler up and out!
Ziggler and Rey are on the apron but Miz kicks Rey! Miz scrapes his boot in but Rey shoulders into Miz. Rey slingshots to RANA Miz up and out! Now all three are on the apron! Miz KICKS Rey, Ziggler SUPERKICKS! They both TOSS and ELIMINATE Rey! Miz and Ziggler fist bump then get back in. Miz tosses Riddle! Riddle holds on, Nakamura KICKS Styles, Miz and Ziggler work on Riddle together! Fans rally for the Bro and Riddle brings his feet up. Rey makes himself a step so Riddle doesn’t touch the floor! Styles throws Nakamura out but Nakamura holds onto the ropes. T-Bar shoves Ricochet, but Ricochet dumps the ropes!
Ricochet TRIANGLE JUMPS, into a choke grip! And CHOKE- NO! Ricochet fights free, T-Bar TOSSES Ricochet, but he lands on a ladder! Ricochet is safe on the rungs, but he has to figure out how to get back. Ricochet leaps, into T-Bar’s grip! Ricochet fights free, tilt-o-whirls and RANAS T-Bar to the floor to ELIMINATE him! The One and Only pulls off an incredible comeback and Raw goes to break!
Raw returns again and we have our final six! Riddle fires off KICKS on Miz while Nakamura throws KNEES into Styles, and Ricochet has Ziggler in a clinch. Riddle whips corner to corner, Miz BOOTS back! Miz hops up, leaps, and AX HANDLES Riddle down! Miz’s leg buckles a bit and he hobbles back to a corner. Ziggler knocks Ricochet down but Nakamura is after Ziggler! Miz drags himself up the corner, but decides to roll out under the bottom rope. Ziggler knocks Nakamura away, but Nakamura dodges in the corner. Ziggler uppercuts back, but Nakamura GAMANGIRIS and Ziggler falls to the floor! Nakamura ELIMINATES Ziggler!
Riddle and Nakamura, the #BROnin, stare down and nod, then fire off fast hands! Riddle fires forearms, each man ducks a kick but the WHEEL KICK takes Riddle out! Nakamura fire sup, runs in, but Riddle tosses him up and out! Nakamura holds on, but Riddle’s PELE knocks him down! Riddle ELIMINATES Nakamura! Miz has the medics looking at him but he insists he’s fine. He doesn’t want this taking away an opportunity! Ricochet SUPERKICKS Riddle then fireman’s carries! DETONATION- NO, Riddle blocks the kick and has the legs! Riddle catapults but Ricochet lands on the corner to mule kick!
Ricochet CROSSBODIES, into a DROPKICK from Styles! The Skipper saves the Bro and then TOSSES Ricochet to ELIMINATE him! Miz is still questionable, are Styles and Riddle the final two?! Fans rally as Styles and Riddle circle. They fire off haymakers and fans fire up! Riddle fires forearm after forearm but Styles ducks a kick to ENZIGURI! Styles runs in but Riddle tosses him out! Styles lands on the apron, DECKS Riddle, and prepares his arm! But Miz YANKS Styles down to ELIMINATE him! Miz laughs and his leg is just fine! Miz played the long con and waves bye to Styles. Fans boo and Miz gets Riddle up to whip, but Riddle holds on!
Miz rushes in, into a ROUNDHOUSE! Riddle hurries but into a full nelson! Riddle arm-drags free, puts Miz through ropes, for the DRAPING DDT! Riddle fires up and hears those voices, bro! RK- NO, Miz full nelsons into the FINALE!! Miz is seething and fans are booing but Riddle flounders up. Miz rushes in, into a HEADSCISSORS! Riddle drags Miz out to join him, and it’s a TRIANGLE HOLD! Both men hold onto the ropes and fans rally! Miz throws elbows and is free! Riddle slowly stands up, Miz runs in, but into an APRON RKO!! Miz falls, RIDDLE WINS!
Winner: Matt Riddle (advances to MITB)
Riddle did it, bro! He’s in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match! Will Riddle win that contract in his hometown, and have a bull’s eye right on the Undisputed Universal Championship?
BREAKING NEWS!
The last spot was supposed to be filled by the winner of Kevin Owens VS Ezekiel/Elias/”Elrod,” but that has to be rescheduled for the moment. Will they be able to have that match before MITB this Saturday? Or will there be another last chance for someone on the roster?
The Street Profits are fired up!
Montez Ford says the Profits are always hanging out with the finest. But tonight, there’s none other than the man himself, JOHN CENA! The camera looks over to the right, but we don’t see Cena. Uh, he’s over on the other side. The camera turns to the left, and there he is! Cena and the Profits are fired up and Ford says tonight is busy and Cena is going around the world making peace, but could he give them some advice? Under the bright lights of Las Vegas, the Bloodline’s Usos put their Undisputed Tag Team Championships on the line. And although Profits won all the qualifying match, it was all by count-out.
Ford says sure, the Profits have held all three WWE Tag Team Championships, from NXT to Raw to SmackDown, but when it comes to the Bloodline, there’s no answer. The Profits get serious and asks Cena want to do. Uh, guys? They were NXT, Raw and SmackDown champions! They are the Profits! More energy than a bolt of lightning! That’s 1.21 gigawatts! Never forget who you really are, and never forget how good you are. And never- Wait, what he’s saying is… NEVER. GIVE. UP! It’s on the shirt for a reason. Now go get the smoke. Never give up, because we want the smoke! The Profits are even more fired up, but will they be able to do Cena proud?
Superstars speak about John Cena.
Shawn Michaels says Cena has and continues to be the hardest working guy in show business. HBK sincerely congratulates Cena on 20 years. Paul “The Big Show” Wight says that there is no one in wrestling that has Cena’s work ethic or character. Wight is honored to have worked with Cena. Booker T says they had great times with Cena, and Cena is more than a wrestler. He is a student of the game! Daniel Bryan says Cena is an excellent locker room leader, and thanks him for being so giving both in and out of the ring.
Trish Stratus says Cena has inspired everyone through his dedication to his craft and to his fans. Triple H says Cena is “arguably the greatest superstar in the history of the WWE. But no only that, through those 20 years, becoming the greatest ambassador and truly representing what it means to be a WWE Superstar.”
Backstage interview with Matt Riddle.
The Bro is pumped up and Kevin Patrick congratulates him on tonight’s win. Riddle is heading to Vegas, what’s he feeling? Riddle says that tonight was for Randy Orton, his “brochacho,” and that to be honest, Riddle’s been having some bad luck. He’s been losing here and there, had his back against the wall, but then his bro, John Cena, came up to him and said the same thing to Riddle as he did the Profits: Never Give Up! And now Riddle’s going to Vegas, baby!
Jey Uso w/ Jimmy Uso VS Montez Ford w/ Angelo Dawkins!
Speaking of, The Bloodline’s here ahead of that very Undisputed Tag Team Championship title match, ready to have one last tune up! And biggest of all, the winner chooses what stipulation we see on Saturday! Who wins here to name the game in Vegas?
Raw returns as the Profits make their entrance. The bell rings and Jey circles with Ford. They tie up, go around, Jey puts Ford in the corner, but lets off. Ford avoids the haymaker to headlock and holds on tight as Jey powers up. Jey keeps trying, powers out the second time, but Ford runs him over! Ford mocks #WeTheOnes, then tells Jimmy to SUCK IT! Things speed up, Jey CLOBBERS Ford! Jey snarls and looms over Ford at the ropes. Jey brings Ford up to ROCK him with a right hand, and fans rally up. Jey whips corner to corner, Ford goes up and over then arm-drags! Ford has the armlock and fans rally as he cranks the shoulder.
Ford whips, Jey reverses but Ford reverses back. Ford hurdles, hurdles and arm-drags again! Fans fire up as Ford has Jey in another armlock. Jey fights up, Jimmy coaches him up, and Jey arm-drags. Ford holds on to drag Jey back down! Ford taunts Jimmy to help his brother but Jimmy stays on the outside. Ford barks at Jimmy, drags Jey up, but Jey arm-drags free. Ford DROPKICKS Jey out of the ring! Fans fire up as Ford goes to the corner and then the apron, to PENALTY- NO, Jey blocks the kick to trip Ford! Jey then whips Ford into the steel steps! The Usos high-five and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Jey has Ford in a corner. Jey fires off, stomps a mudhole in, but lets off at the ref’s count. Jey snarls, throws down more hands, then lets off at 4 again. Dawkins coaches Ford but Jey says, “You want that smoke, Tez?! You don’t want no smoke!” Jey whips corner to corner hard, then runs in, but Ford CLOBBERS Jey! Fans fire up as both men rise. Jey runs in but Ford dodges and follows to LARIAT! Ford brings Jey up, Jey ducks the haymaker to back suplex, but Ford lands on his feet! Ford mule kicks, front kicks, then ENZIGURIS! Jey staggers, but SUPERKICKS! And UPPERCUTS!
Ford staggers, ducks the haymaker, and LEAPING LARIATS! Ford handsprings up to MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Jimmy is relieved but Ford glares at Jey. Ford brings Jey up, back suplexes, but Jey lands on his feet and shoves. Ford bounces off buckles, into a POP-UP NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Jey is frustrated but Jimmy coaches him up. Dawkins coaches Ford, fans rally up, and Jey throws off the armbands. Ford is in the corner, Jey raises the finger, then starts “UCE! SO! UCE! SO!” Jey runs corner to corner, but into a SUPERKICK! Ford runs, to BLOCKBUSTER! Cover, TWO!!
Jey survives and Jimmy is relieved again. Ford hurries to a corner and up top! But Jimmy distracts! Ford swipes at him, Jimmy gets away, but Dawkins POUNCES! Jey runs, but Ford swings, Jey dodges to DIVE onto Dawkins! Ford DIVES onto Jey!! Ford fires up and puts Jey back in! Ford hurries up top, FROM THE HEAVENS!! Cover, Ford wins!!
Winner: Montez Ford, by pinfall (Street Profits name the stipulation)
Ford wins and that means the Profits are dealing the cards! What will they choose as the rules for their Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship match? We’ll have to wait and see because right now, it’s time to celebrate!
The Mysterios regroup backstage.
But the Judgement Day’s Finn Balor & Damian Priest find them first. Finn tells Rey & Dom this is huge! Cena’s 20th Anniversary! Is it Finn or has everyone forgotten Rey has his 30th coming up soon? And what an incredible career. Royal Rumble winner, multiple time world champion, and he is loved and respected by everyone in the business! But it’s a bit confusing. What is it that Rey isn’t teaching his son? Priest says that clearly, Judgement Day is about to take over. Their doors are always open, especially those tired of hearing the same things over and over by their so-called leaders, who simply lead them down the right path. Does Dom understand?
Rey gets upset but Finn says tranquilo, we’re all friends here. They’re just saying, maybe it isn’t bad luck Dom has. It’s just a bad father. Dom keeps Rey back as Finn & Priest leave, and Rey tells Judgement Day they better run. Maybe Rey teaches them a thing or two next week in San Diego! The Mysterios VS The Prince and Punisher? Will that match become reality?
It all started with two words: “RUTHLESS! AGGRESSION!”
John Cena took the fight to Kurt Angle, won The Undertaker’s respect, and then became a Doctor of Thuganomics! From there, Cena became WWE United States Champion, defeating John “Bradshaw” Layfield, then eventually amassed SIXTEEN world titles! From giants to superheavyweights to the baddest men on the planet, Cena’s faced them all, and even beaten a few. He walked into hostile territory with ECW, he defeated The Rock at WrestleMania, won Money in the Bank and make shocking returns at the Royal Rumble, and whether fans loved or hated him, everyone knew his name.
And on top of all that, he has granted the most wishes in Make-A-Wish history while participating in Tribute to the Troops and thanking the real heroes in the American military. Of course, he’s also jumped right into Hollywood, from movies to television shows to talk shows and awards shows. Comedy, action, Kids Choice Awards, Wipeout on TBS, and Hustle, Loyalty and Respect. #ThankYouCena for 20 YEARS!
Kevin Patrick is in the ring!
After that highlight reel retrospective, Kevin Patrick welcomes out to the ring the Most Must-See Superstar, The Miz! Miz returns to the ring after being part of the battle royal and faking a bad knee. Miz gets a mic and Kevin Patrick welcomes him out. Miz is an avid social media user, so he must know that Logan Paul is plotting a return to the ring. Logan Paul posted pictures of his wrestling training, and Miz asks everyone, “Who do you think set that up? ME, I did it!” Miz gives us an exclusive: The Most Must-See WWE Tag Team will reunite at SummerSlam! And they will continue their winning ways like they did with the Mysterios back at WrestleMania!
But funny Miz brings that up. Their relationship is what? What is what? Well, after that win, Miz betrayed Logan by hitting a Finale on him! Miz asks, “Is this you being a journalist? That’s cute.” Miz says he’ll explain something to us: Miz is the biggest full-time superstar in the WWE! This Friday, Miz will be on The Today Show! Did they ask anyone to do that? NO! Miz is the multi-talented star in and out of the ring! Miz has his hit reality show, Miz & Mrs., which will be on right after Raw! So when a celebrity like Logan Paul wants to get into the WWE, they use Miz’s notoriety and knowledge to become even bigger stars. They demand to be associated with Miz!
And just so we all know, after that moment where Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale, Miz went to Logan later and asked, “Do you know what that was? That was a teaching lesson for you.” Logan understood, he and Miz are on the same page, and they WILL become Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions! Kevin brings up that Logan was surely watching the battle royal. Does Miz think Logan was disappointed with that? “The only disappointment is AJ Styles. His career has been on a downward spiral! That’s why he came out and mocked me on MizTV and said what he said.” Does he mean Miz’s tiny-
WHOA! Don’t you say it. But Kevin didn’t say it, he was just referencing Styles bringing up Miz’s tiny balls. NO!! That is not becoming a thing. Fans start chanting, “BALLS! BALLS! BALLS!” Miz says he has MASSIVE, GIGANTIC, STUPENDOUS- Here comes AJ Styles! Miz smirks and Styles gets right in the ring, to DECK him! Styles looms over Miz and Miz scurries to the apron! Will Styles look to settle the score with Miz and his possibly tiny balls?
The Miz VS AJ Styles!
Raw returns and the bell rings on this match! Miz rushes in but Styles tackles him down! Styles fires off hands, Miz kicks Styles away but Styles comes back to kick and ROCK Miz! Styles CHOPS Miz, CHOPS him again, then CHOPS him in a corner. Miz staggers away, Styles ROCKS him with right hands, then bumps him off buckles. Styles KICKS a leg out, whips Miz to ropes, and hurdles to drop and dropkick! Fans fire up and Styles drags Miz up. Styles scoops Miz to hit a BACKBREAKER! Fans rally, Miz wants mercy but Styles stomps him instead. Styles brings Miz up, whips him to ropes but Miz reverses to KITCHEN SINK KNEE!
Miz runs to BASEMENT BOOT! Fans boo Miz while he snarls and storms up on Styles. Miz has Styles on the ropes to CHOKE him! The ref counts, Miz lets off to run and STRADDLE ATTACK! Miz motions the size of his walnuts, and Miz KICKS away on Styles in the corner. Miz lets off as the ref counts, and Styles fires haymakers back! Styles whips Miz corner to corner but Miz reverses. Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz dumps Styles down, goes up the corner, and he AX HANDLES! No faking a bad knee now! Cover, TWO! Miz clamps on a chinlock and he grinds Styles down, but Styles fights up as fans rally.
Styles throws body shots, powers out and CHOPS, then whips. Miz KICKS back, then runs, but Styles tosses Miz out! Styles then slingshots but Miz moves! Miz is after the legs but Styles kicks him away. MOONSAULT, but Miz dodges to FLAPJACK Styles on the apron, and then RAM him into barriers! Fans boo as Miz stands tall and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Miz has the chinlock again. Styles endures and fans rally up, but Miz leans on the hold. Styles fights up, throws elbows, and Styles is free. But Miz kicks a leg out and hits a BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO! Miz is annoyed but fans rally for Styles. Styles slowly rises but Miz gives him “IT” KICKS! Miz KICKS and KICKS and KICKS! Miz powers up and aims, but Styles blocks the buzzsaw! Styles shifts around and GERMAN SUPLEXES! Fans fire up while both men are down! Miz and Styles rise, Styles fires off the Phenomenal Blitz and LARIAT! Then SLIDING FOREARM! Fans fire up with Styles while Miz flounders away.
Styles runs in at the corner to clothesline! Styles reels Miz in, wheelbarrow FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Styles keeps focus and gets back up. Styles brings Miz up and reels him in, but Miz back drops the Clash! Styles sunset flips but Miz rolls through, only for Styles to dodge the kick! Fireman’s carry, USHIGOROSHI! Cover, TWO! Miz is still in this but Styles brings him back up. Miz throat chops! The ref reprimands but Miz goes to a corner. Styles runs in, Miz puts him on the apron, but Styles ROCKS Miz! Springboard, PHENOMENAL- NO, Miz dodges and runs in, into a BOOT! Styles goes up but Miz sweeps the legs! DRAPING CODE BREAKER! Cover, TWO!!
Miz is furious as Styles survives, and Miz drags Styles up. Miz puts Styles in the corner, puts Styles up top, then climbs after Styles. Fans rally for Styles but Miz fires hands. Miz stands Styles up, but Styles slips under to trip Miz up! Miz bumps off buckles, and Styles torture racks! Miz fights free to kick the legs out! BUZZSAW! HEEL KICK! Miz runs, to BUSAIKU KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! Styles survives and Miz is fuming! Miz soaks up the heat as he waits on Styles to get up. Full nelson, but Styles wheelbarrows to victory roll! TWO, and Miz BOOTS Styles! Styles PELES Miz back! Miz wobbles around, into Styles snap BRAINBUSTER!!
Both men are down, Styles goes to the apron instead of the cover! Fans fire up as Styles takes aim, but then Miz runs away! No Phenomenal Forearm if there’s no target! Styles is furious but the ring count is climbing. Miz doesn’t care, he’s already to the stage, and then the back. Styles wins on count-out!
Winner: AJ Styles, by count-out
Miz quit, which isn’t how someone like Styles wants to win. But a win is a win, will Styles just leave it at that?
John Cena talks with someone backstage.
He isn’t sure, but is Ezekiel really not Elias? Ezekiel gets that a lot, but it’s okay. It is an honor to meet Cena. Oh, Zeke the Freak! Cena’s #ZekedOut to meet him! Zeke is, too! Elias would always talk about Cena. Is Elias here? Yeah, but just busy going around, showing their youngest brother, Elrod, the place. Oh, that’s cool. But anyway, Zeke is freaking out. Zeke would love to Walk With Elias, and it’s fun to #TrodWithElrod, but uh, Zeke wants to make sure gets to #SpeakWithZeke. Cena says that’s easy: never forget who you really are. Right, that’s great advice! Zeke thanks Cena and heads out, and then Austin Theory walks in.
Theory wants to introduce himself, but he knows Cena knows him already. Hell, everyone knows Theory! But no, Cena always gets to talk. They’re celebrating him as it is, but they should be celebrating Theory! He’s on Raw every week, putting it down, #ATownDown! Cena doesn’t even know what that means because he’s so outta touch. Cena always talks about never giving up, but Theory can do this all day! Got you there. Just look at Theory! He’s 24 years old, the youngest WWE United States Champion ever. How many titles did Cena have at 24? NONE! Then what? He’s not even in WWE anymore.
But look at Theory! The handpicked protégé of Mr. McMahon! Look at his arms, his title! He can’t be touched! But look at Cena! It’s 2022 and Cena’s a grown ass man in JORTS! But that’s fine, selfie time! Cena disappears. Theory is upset, but will the “new face” of WWE get the last word on the previous?
MORE superstars share their thoughts on Cena.
Kurt Angle remembers facing the kid calling himself “The Prototype,” and little did he know that 20 years later, he’d be the most successful star of all time. Randy Orton says it’s been one hell of a ride, the two of them, and Orton enjoyed every second watching Cena do his thing. And being in the ring, it was an honor to be his opponent so many times, and even more so, becoming a friend. JBL says he doesn’t think anyone could’ve predicted the unparalleled 20 years Cena has had. A SIXTEEN TIME world champion and the greatest of all time. Chris Jericho wishes Cena a big congrats on 20 years of Hustle, Loyalty and Respect. Cena is one of Jericho’s all time favorite opponents.
Stephanie McMahon says Cena is one of the biggest WWE stars of all time, and indeed one of the world’s biggest icons. Congratulations on 20 years, we can’t wait to see what the next 20 have in store. Stone Cold Steve Austin says during his run, he lived by three letters: DTA, Don’t Trust Anybody! That worked for Austin, but Cena lived by his own creed with HLR: Hustle, Loyalty & Respect. Austin congratulates Cena on his 20th year in the WWE. Cheers and a swig o’ beer! If you’re down with Cena and his 20 years, gimme a HELL YEAH~!
Bianca Belair is here!
The RawEST Women’s Champion is here ahead of Money in the Bank and her title defense against the (self-proclaimed) Most Beautiful Woman in the WWE. What will champion and challenger have to say to each other? We’ll see, after the break.
Raw returns and has the mic, and Kevin Patrick gives her a formal introduction. Kevin asks her what’s going through her mind knowing she defends her title at MITB against Mella. Well, she wishes Mella was here, because unlike her, everything she has to say she’ll say to Mella’s face! Bianca was starting to think there was hope for Mella. You would think that after beating four of the best women on Raw, Mella would have the confidence to step to Bianca and say her part. But no, she had to cheap shot Bianca. But Bianca should’ve known some things never change. She should’ve known Mella will always resort to her tricks and cheats cuz that’s what she thinks she has to do.
Meanwhile, no one respects Mella. Not because she’s not good, but because Mella doesn’t respect herself. Bianca’s stepped in the ring with Mella and knows Mella can be great. But Mella is so focused and insecure about her looks that she can’t see her own potential and talent. Mella has “IT!” But… If Mella is gonna step up to Bianca at MITB, then Mella better bring it. Bianca craves competition, so Mella better bring it or she’s just wasting our time. And speaking of time, if Mella thinks she has what it take, why wait until Vegas? Mella, how about you come out in the biggEST state of Texas, and we show everyone that she can step to Bianca face-to-face.
Bianca waits for Mella’s response, and Mella makes her way out on stage! Mella struts and Corey Graves defends his wife. Mella says Bianca is so wrong about her. Mella isn’t insecure, she’s smart. Mella has it all, from beauty to brains. But the WWE Universe doesn’t respect Mella because of her looks. Mella is the total package, and that is for damn sure! Mella gets in the ring, and says her resume speaks for itself: Two-time Ms. MITB, a former WWE Women’s Tag Team and former SmackDown Women’s Champion! So if Mella isn’t given respect, she’ll just take it. Just like she’ll take that title this Saturday at MITB! Because… Mella IS Money!
Bianca holds the belt up, Mella drops the mic and leaves. Kevin asks Bianca quickly that if the WWE Universe doesn’t respect Mella, does Bianca respect Mella? Mella sneaks in but Bianca blocks the kick! Bianca DECKS Mella, and holds up the belt again. Will Bianca be the readiEST she’s ever been, knowing Mella’s got tricks and cheats to spare?
Backstage interview with Liv Morgan and Alexa Bliss.
Sarah knows they’re both friends, but MITB is everyone for themselves. Alexa says she and Liv are friendly, but Alexa has no friends right now. #DTA. But Alexa likes Liv. She’s super athletic, resilient, and that’ll make Liv a champion one day. But that day isn’t Saturday. Alexa won MITB before and will do it again. Plus, Alexa can get Lily a matching mini briefcase. Liv says wow, gotta say, Alexa is right about two things. One: Liv will be champion one day. Two: They’re not friends, because friends lift each other up. And Saturday, Liv knocks Alexa down, climbs the ladder and takes the contract that changes her life forever.
But y’know, if there’s one thing Liv has learned from Cena these last 20 years, sometimes you gotta step to someone that’s in your way and let them know their time is up. Alexa, Liv’s time is NOW. Okay, then bring it! Liv will! Liv will win tonight, too. Yeah… Not gonna happen. Alexa has Lily boop Liv’s nose. Well then, #WatchMe. Liv boops Lily back and makes her entrance. Who gets some last minute momentum before heading to Las Vegas?
Liv Morgan VS Alexa Bliss!
Raw returns and Alexa makes her entrance now. Asuka has also joined commentary, wanting to watch her competition with her own eyes. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Liv headlocks and hits a takeover. Alexa headscissors, Liv kips free, and Alexa headlocks for the takeover. Liv headscissors now, Alexa kips free, and Asuka talks with Corey in Japanese. There might be miscommunication, Corey keeps thinking she’s insulting Byron. Liv and Alexa go again, Liv gets around to waistlock, but Alexa resists the lift. Alexa switches, Liv resists, reaches down and switches back. Alexa swings an elbow but Liv ducks it!
Alexa pries at the hold, switches again, Asuka comments on SmackDown’s entrants such as Raquel Rodriguez, saying no one is ready for Asuka! Liv goes to a corner, she bucks Alexa, and Alexa runs back in but sent into buckles! Liv back body blocks Alexa, rolls out, then runs back in, but into KNEES! Alexa drops Insulty2Injury, but Liv dodges! Alexa hobbles, but she runs, DOUBLE LARIATS take both ladies down! Asuka seems conflicted on who in this match is more of a threat, but she says Liv is the one to watch. Alexa dodges Liv in the corner but Liv elbows her away. Liv goes up but Alexa avoids the missile dropkick! To then basement dropkick! Cover, TWO!
Alexa is annoyed but she drags Liv into a chinlock. Liv endures and fans rally up. Liv fights up, throws elbows, and arm-drags free! Alexa rolls through, Liv runs in but into a kick! Alexa choke grips but Liv slips free to put on a SLEEPER! Alexa turns to JAWBREAKER! Liv ENZIGURIS Alexa, runs in, but no ObLIVion as Alexa dodges! DRAPING BACKBREAKER! Alexa brings Liv up, points to the briefcase, but Liv rolls Alexa to a cradle! Liv wins!!
Winner: Liv Morgan, by pinfall
Even Asuka is shocked! Liv pins a former Women’s Champion and Ms. MITB! Is this a sign that it is Liv’s time? Or will the odds not be in her favor?
Vince McMahon is here!
The mastermind behind the WWE is back again, and is ready to help honor John Cena, after the break.
Raw returns and the superstars line the ramp while Vince gets the mic. “There have been so many accolades said about the man I’m about to introduce, so I’ll just say it’s my honor and privilege to introduce to you, JOHN! CENA!” The music hits and it’s been a minute since we’ve heard My Time is Now! Cena shows off the newest Never Give Up towel design and he goes to the ring. The fans are giving Cena a standing ovation as Cena runs the ropes. Cena gets the mic and soaks in the cheers.
“They’re a raucous group here tonight, what can I do? Today is my WWE Birthday. And as I look around, people as far as the eye can see, you can feel the energy and you can certainly hear the noise!” Cena couldn’t think of a better place to celebrate his birthday. And he likes that sign: 20 years of Jorts. Well, no one is perfect. And how old is this kid here? Six? Then apparently, Cena has been out of touch 14 years long than he’s been alive. Cena says he’s never been one on celebrating milestones because he always looks forward to what’s next. But… tonight is different.
Tonight has nothing to do with anything Cena’s ever done. Not any moment, not any match. Tonight has everything to do with the fans. The 20th anniversary is important because it means the fans have allowed him to do this for two decades. It has never been lost on him that every time he is in the ring, it is because the fans allow it. Over the years, the fans have created an environment for him to be his true self, and been brave enough to say when he sucks, and kind enough to tell him when he doesn’t. Fans chant for Cena and Cena says he’s always wanted to say, “Thank you.” He just has been waiting for the right moment, and this here feels like that moment.
Fans now chant “Thank You, Cena!” and Cena can’t help but be touched. Cena says his heart is beating out of his chest, and he is filled with energy and excitement. He thanks the fans for moments like that, and for making Cena who Cena is today. Cena always says to anyone that the WWE prepared him for anything. He needs us to know that he doesn’t mean The Fast & The Furious or Peacemaker. He means WWE prepared him for anything because of the fans and their reactions and investment in him, they made him a better human being. He is a better professional, a better husband, a better person for being in the WWE.
And spending moments with families like those he met just today has taught him empathy, caring, kindness, and the fans have all taught him humility and perseverance. They’ve drilled into him that every time you get in the ring, you give nothing less than your all because every time, the fans shower the superstars with everything they’ve got. Fans cheer and Cena says, “That’s what I’m talking about!” Cena says this isn’t about his name, but about people coming together. It has been 20 years, he’s 45 now, shh. He only says that because who knows when we’ll see him in the ring again. He isn’t saying we won’t, he just doesn’t know when.
So Cena needs to say this to us now. Fans chant for “One More Match!” but Cena says, “It ain’t just gonna be one, don’t worry about that.” But Cena doesn’t know when it starts so he has to say this now: anything Cena does outside of the WWE is never just Cena. Just like when they chant his name, it’s more than just his name. It is about all of us coming together as one. Cena asks us tonight, that them being those who made him who he is, if something is good, say so. If something sucks, say so. This has never been about Cena, it has always been about us. So for those watching at home or in the arena with Cena in Laredo…
Cena has been coming here for 20 years, we can get more, can’t we? The fans fire up and cheer louder, but Cena says they gotta show the world what they’re made of! Fans cheer even louder and that is the sound of us. We never give up, and we’re just getting started. If you want some, come get some! Cena drops the mic, goes out to fist bump the fans, and even throws his armbands and wristbands out to the crowd. And even his hat! And his shirt! Cena heads out, but when and where will we see him again?
2v1 Handicap Match, (Austin) Theory as Special Enforcer: The Alpha Academy VS Bobby Lashley!
Of course the youngest WWE United States Champion used his authority as granted by Mr. McMahon to set this one up. Theory boasted a lot in Cena’s face, and claims the All Mighty’s got nothing on him, but will Chad Gable & Otis win this one for him? Or will Lashley use the Academy as a preview for what’s coming this Saturday?
The bell rings and Otis starts against Lashley. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and the two break. Theory taunts Lashley but he focuses on Otis. Lashley headlocks, Otis powers out and the two RAM shoulders. Otis stays up! Lashley LARIATS, but Otis still stays up, so Lashley dropkicks the legs out! Lashley CLOBBERS Otis from behind and Theory complains, but the ref says it’s all fair. Lashley hauls Otis up, but Theory gets on the apron! Theory says Lashley can’t suplex Otis, but then Lashley POSTS Otis instead. Lashley swipes at Theory but Theory gets away. Gable tags in, Lashley chases Theory for, but Gable CANNONBALLS!
Gable has Otis come around to SPLASH Lashley on the ground! “A THANK YEW~!” The Academy and Theory gloat while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Lashley throws elbows and forearms on Otis! Lashley whips Otis to a corner and then runs in, but into a BOOT! Theory applauds but fans boo as Otis stands on Lashley’s chest. The ref counts, Otis steps off, and Otis drags Lashley up. Otis clamps on a neck wrench to grind Lashley, and Theory takes some selfies. Lashley endures, fans rally, and Theory tells fans to shut up. Lashley fights up, throws body shots, but Otis knees low. Otis whips to BACK ELBOW Lashley down! Theory likes what he sees and Otis tags Gable. Otis drags Lashley up and chicken wings, but Lashley fights free!
Lashley throws hands on Otis, throws hands on Gable, but Otis rushes in! Lashley throws Otis out! Gable CHOP BLOCKS Lashley’s leg! Theory applauds but he’s the only one. Gable runs and CLOBBERS Lashley! Cover, TWO! Gable pushes Lashley around and fans rally up for “Bobby! Bobby!” Gable goes up top, but Lashley ROCKS him first! Lashley climbs up after Gable, Theory says that’s not legal! The ref counts, Lashley brings Gable up, but Otis tags in! Otis gets in and has Lashley on his shoulders! POWERBOMB! Gable MOONSAULTS! Otis covers, TWO! Theory is upset that Lashley survives, and Gable tags back in.
Gable drags Lashley up, waistlocks, and Otis runs. But Lashley BOOTS Otis! Lashley DECKS Gable, Theory panics, but Otis CLOBBERS Lashley! Otis dumps Lashley down, climbs up, but Lashley CHOP BLOCKS the tree trunk! Lashley manages an Electric Chair Lift with Otis! ELECTRIC CHAIR SLAM!! Gable is up top, he leaps, but into Lashley’s HURT LOCK!! Gable taps, Lashley wins!!
Winner: Bobby Lashley, by submission
But Theory attacks! Fans boo as Theory rains down fists, and then the Academy joins in! Theory wants the Academy to set Lashley up, and Theory gets in Lashley’s face. Selfie! Lashley BOOTS Theory down! Lashley sends Gable into Otis, then hits Otis with a COMPLETE SHOT! SPEAR for Gable!! Lashley snarls and aims at Theory, but Theory runs away! No Spear for Mr. All Day, but will Theory end up the youngest former WWE United States Champion in history?
Cody Rhodes speaks!
After the torn pectoral before Hell in a Cell, and the underhanded attack by Seth Rollins after, the American Nightmare has been on the sidelines recovering. WWE cameras caught up to get an update straight from the source. Cody says that rehab is rehab, and it is a game of highs and lows. It all pales in comparison to where he was just three weeks ago. Cody, in the prime and peak of his career, won Hell in a Cell. Cody would’ve loved to use that momentum to go to MITB, flying high, but maybe he flew a little too close to the sun. Rollins would surely say the same. Because of the sledgehammer to the pectoral muscle, Cody is being told by doctors he has to wait nine months.
Cody respects that timeline. It’ll be bittersweet watching MITB, with one of the most talented groupings in the history of that match. There’s Drew McIntyre and Sheamus, two men who possess a Harley Race level of toughness. Omos is inexperienced but he’s 7’3″, probably doesn’t even need the ladder. Sami Zayn uses subterfuge to fool people into forgetting he is a genius in the ring. And then there’s Seth Freakin’ Rollins. The man responsible for the greatest cash-in in the history of WWE. But wouldn’t that be something, if history repeated itself? Rollins could get that MITB contract, the thing that’s eluded Cody his entire career, and then Rollins could cash-in on the Undisputed Universal Champion. Wouldn’t that be something?
Cody isn’t rooting for anyone, but if Rollins takes the win, Cody will be the first to congratulate him. Cody excuses himself to get back to rehab. Will those nine months stay at nine months? Or will the American Nightmare, motivated by his dream, make it back sooner rather than later?
Cena talks with long time staff members.
The crew member tells Cena that he’s proven he has Hustle, Loyalty & Respect earlier out there. But then in walks Seth Rollins, laughing to the rhythm of Cena’s theme song. Does Cena remember that time when Rollins put his knee into Cena’s nose and broke his face into like a million tiny pieces? HAHAHA! Good to see you, Cena! You look great, great speech, you really are the best. Rollins knows he and Cena have had their ups and downs over the years, but Rollins says they have a lot in common. They’re both international mega stars. They’re both fashion icons. And since it is the season, they’re both winners of the MITB contract.
Oh, a sore subject for Cena, though. When Cena cashed in, he failed miserably. Crashed ‘n’ burned Top Gun style. And when Rollins cashed in, well, everyone knows what happened there. Even that “chump stain,” Cody Rhodes knows Rollins pulled off the greatest cash-in of all time! And this Saturday, Rollins says history repeats itself. For Rollins, not Cena. Cena isn’t in the match. Or is he? Wait, what’s he looking at. Rollins turns around to see Omos and MVP, but mostly Omos. MVP says, “Gentlemen. John. Seth, we were passing by and I overheard your conversation. And I wanted to tell you, much like you, I, too, am a visionary.”
And what MVP sees is the Nigerian Giant in the center of the ring among a sea of broken ladders and shattered bodies, raising the MITB briefcase up to the heavens. It is a foregone conclusion. Omos is inevitable. And there is nothing Rollins or anyone else can do about that. Rollins grins and looks at Cena, who is still in awe of Omos. Cena says, “Good luck,” to Rollins and pats him on the back before leaving. Rollins looks back up at Omos. Can the Architect craft a plan to topple this mountain of a man? Or is there no stopping the Nigerian Giant?
Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Last Chance Elimination Match: Becky Lynch VS Nikki A.S.H. VS “Doudrop” Piper Niven VS Shayna Baszler VS Xia Li VS Tamina!
There is only ONE spot left in the Women’s MITB match, and it will belong to the last woman left in this match! Will the Big Time Comeback finally make progress? Or can not even The Man outlast the Almost Super Hero, Piper the Viper, the Queen of Spades, the Protector and the Daughter of Superfly?
Raw returns and with everyone else already in the ring, Xia makes her entrance. The bell rings, Becky is antsy, and everyone else goes after her! They stomp Becky down, Tamina then goes after Xia and Nikki rolls Shayna! ONE, Shayna fires off on Nikki. Becky bails out to the apron and Piper goes after Shayna to help Nikki. Xia kicks Tamina back, digs her knees in at the corner, and Nikki helps Piper hit Shayna with a SIDEWALK SLAM INVERTED DDT COMBO! Cover, TWO! Shayna survives and scurries away. Tamina SUPERKICKS Xia down and out, but that leaves her and Piper! Time to see if someone is meana than Tamina!
But then Nikki sucker punches Tamina! She and Piper mug Tamina, double whip her corner to corner hard, then Piper whips Nikki in. Tamina puts Nikki on the apron, DECKS her, then kicks Piper low! Tamina throws hands, but Piper gives them back! Fans rally as the haymakers go back and forth, and Piper gets the edge. Piper HEADBUTTS Tamina, but it backfires! Never headbutt a Samoan! Tamina HEADBUTTS Piper and Piper wobbles! Tamina rushes in but Piper puts her on the apron. Piper then DECKS Tamina, runs at Becky on the apron, but Becky ROUNDHOUSES her! Becky climbs up, leaps, MOLLY-GO-ROUND! Cover, TWO!
Xia returns to Oklahoma Roll Becky, TOW! Becky kicks but Xia blocks to spin and ROCK Becky! Xia fires off, then BOOTS! Xia goes up to ELBOW Becky, then reels her in. But Nikki rolls Xia! Xia rolls free, mule kicks Nikki, but Becky runs in to hit a MANHANDLE SLAM! Cover, Becky ELIMINATES Xia! Becky gloats and tells Xia to leave. But then Nikki CROSSBODIES her down! Nikki HAMMERS and KNEES Becky, drops an elbow, then covers, TWO! Nikki drags Becky up but fans boo the superhero pose. Nikki runs but Shayna drags her out of the ring! Shayna has Becky’s arm, isolates it, but Becky avoids the stomp!
Becky rolls Shayna, ONE! Shayna ROCKS Becky, Piper CLUBS Shayna! Piper whips Shayna but Shayna ducks the haymaker to waistlock. Becky waistlocks Shayna, but Piper is too much for them both! Piper RAMS both Becky and Shayna into buckles. Becky drops but Shayna jumps on for a SLEEPER! Piper TOSSES Shayna to a corner, then runs in to CANNONBALL! Shayna flops out, Piper goes back for Becky but only gets buckles! Tamina SPLASHES Piper, but then Becky DECKS Tamina! Nikki YANKS Becky down, goes up top, but has to leap over Tamina. Tamina scoops Nikki, Nikki slips out to shove Tamina into Becky’s missile dropkick!
Nikki rolls Becky up! TWO, and into the DISARM-HER!! Nikki TAPS, Becky ELIMINATES another one! Fans fire up as Becky has taken out two with three more to go! Becky dares someone to step up, but Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Shayna gives Piper ground ‘n’ pound, but Becky drags Shayna off to fire forearms and uppercuts on her! Shayna slips around to SLEEPER! Becky runs to ropes to toss Shayna out! Becky then runs, slides, but Shayna dodges to ROCK Becky! Shayna fires off shots, then runs, into a BECKSPLODER into barriers! Becky hurries up, Tamina runs in, but Tamina also gets caught! Tamina resists the Becksploder, and Piper runs in to CLOBBER them all! Piper drags Becky up and brings her around into the ring. Piper gets in but Becky rolls all the way to the far side. Piper goes back to the pile to get Shayna up and in.
Shayna hurries to KNEE Piper down! Is that a knockout!? Cover, TWO!! Piper survives and Shayna is a bit surprised. Tamina returns, goes up the corner, but Shayna GAMANGIRIS her first! Shayna climbs, brings Tamina up, but Becky attacks and joins in! Becky and Shayna have Tamina, but Piper adds on to them! TOWER OF DOOM!! Fans fire up for the double powerbomb superplex while all four women are down! Piper gets up, scoops Shayna, but Shayna slips off to the KIRAFUDA! But Piper slips free and Tamina SUPERKICKS Shayna! Fireman’s carry, but Shayna sunset flips and has a HEEL HOOK!
Piper SPLASHES Shayna!! Cover, Piper ELIMINATES Shayna!! But then Becky CLUBS Piper down! Becky reels Piper in but Piper fights the clinch. Piper shoves Becky at Tamina and Tamina fireman’s carries, but Becky slips off to shove Tamina into Piper! Piper goes down and flops out of the ring! Becky dodges the superkick and clinches, but Tamina resists the urenage! Tamina fireman’s carries to SAMOAN DROP! Tamina goes to a corner, climbs up top, and SUPER FLOPS as Becky moves! But Piper drags Becky out to scoop SLAM her to the floor! And SENTON! Piper gets in, SPLASHES Tamina in a corner, and then stomps her into the drop zone!
Piper goes up and fans fire up for the VADER BOMB! Piper drags Tamina to a cover, Piper ELIMINATES Tamina!! It’s just Piper and Becky now! Piper hurries back out after Becky, puts her back in the ring, and fans rally for Becky as she hurries to a corner. Piper storms over to forearm smash! Piper scoops, SLAMS and climbs again, for a VADER FLOP!! Becky avoids disaster, and reels Piper in. Piper RAMS Becky into a corner, puts Becky up top, and then climbs up after her! But Becky uses that for a SUPER MANHANDLE SLAM!! Cover, Becky wins!!
Winner: Becky Lynch, by pinfall (advances to MITB)
The comeback is alive! The Man is heading to Vegas! But will she be able to keep this going all the way to winning the contract? Or will someone else in the field of seven take that golden opportunity?
My Thoughts:
A very good go-home, because they didn’t worry about making it a typical WWE go-home with the video packages and recaps. They used the fact things weren’t filled out for the MITB fields to really make this episode feel important, and we got awesome matches out of the qualifiers. The 20 Man Battle Royal to basically open the night was great stuff, lots of great interactions between the Raw and SmackDown stars, but in the end, Riddle was the obvious and natural choice. Riddle gets back in on MITB, he’s going to his hometown, and he’ll certainly go after Rollins throughout that match.
We also got an awesome Six Woman Elimination Match for the main event tonight, and none of that “Here’s the entrances, and then a commercial break. Oh, here’s a video package! And then more entrances, and another commercial break!” The main event was treated as a main event, it made everyone in that match look great, and in the end, Becky gets the win. The story of the Big Time Comeback has been done wonderfully, and I can’t wait to see that Women’s MITB. I am definitely expecting a Power Couple Mr. & Ms. MITB going with Rollins and Becky both winning. They don’t even have to interact past one photoshoot for WWE.com and social media, and then they each do as they please with the contracts.
A bit of a shame we didn’t get the other qualifier we were supposed to get. Them not giving a reason why there was a rescheduling makes me think something was up with Kevin Owens. He wasn’t there tonight to have interactions with Cena, which he would’ve totally have done given how Cena was a big part of Kevin’s RawDown call-up. Kevin VS Elias/Ezekiel/Elrod is probably going to be put on SmackDown because this needs to happen for more than just the MITB qualifier, this needs to happen for the feud. But I will give them credit, Ezekiel and Elias apparently now have a third brother named Elrod in canon, not just Kevin saying names.
We also got great stuff branching off from the opening Battle Royal. Judgement Day shifting focus to the Mysterios is an interesting move, and that includes them trying to recruit Dominik. I don’t know which way this goes, but I don’t think a suit-wearing goth phase is what will help Dom get going, and I don’t think Dom will actually help Judgement Day get going. Tommaso Ciampa could help get Judgement Day going. T-Bar shedding the name T-Bar and returning to Dijak could help Judgement Day going. WWE should’ve just pulled the trigger on Mysterios being in NXT and feuding with Legado del Fantasma.
AJ Styles VS The Miz in another match was good, and Miz helping hype Logan Paul’s return for SummerSlam was an interesting move. Styles of course gets his win back on Miz, but I wonder if Styles ends up part of the build with Logan and Miz into SummerSlam. I feel like Liv VS Alexa was made to make up for not having Kevin VS Elias/Ezekiel because it was decent match with a decent promo to set it up, but could’ve/would’ve been more if they’d prepared for it. Liv getting the win makes sense, she needs to start living up to that “future champion” potential everyone acknowledges. But ironically, that day still isn’t this weekend, it’ll have to be later.
we got a great 1v1 match out of Ford VS Jey Uso, and I like that they added the stipulation of choosing a stipulation for their tag title match. I’m pretty sure I didn’t miss any segment so the Profits didn’t choose one here. They’ll surely use SmackDown to name the stipulation, and you can bet it is something where Champions Advantage and twin trickery won’t help the Usos. Theory had a very good interaction with Cena backstage, and a decent part in the Handicap Match between Lashley and the Alpha Academy. Lashley has all the momentum going into their US Championship match, so I have a bad feeling Lashley loses. Theory will keep his reign as youngest US Champion ever going, and after Cena’s great promo to celebrate his 20th year, you can bet Cena VS Theory will happen at either SummerSlam or WrestleMania.
My Score: 8.3/10
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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.
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
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