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