Coverage
Mitchell’s NJPW G1 Climax 32 Results & Report! (7/24/22)
Redemption is up for grabs!

Will the Ace be made to tranquilo?
NJPW’s biggest G1 Climax continues, with a critical main event! Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tetsuya Naito both need a win, but who loses to shockingly go 0-2?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Six Man Tag: Chaos VS The House of Torture; Chaos wins.
- Royce Isaacs & Tom Lawlor VS Chase Owens & KENTA; Chase & Kenta win.
- Shingo Takagi & BUSHI VS Bad Dude Tito & JONAH; Tito & Jonah win.
- Six Man Tag: Suzuki-Gun VS The United Empire; The United Empire wins.
- Six Man Tag: Kazuchika Okada, Tama Tonga & Jado VS Bullet Club; Okada, Tonga & Jado win.
- G1 Climax, D Block: El Phantasmo VS Yujiro Takahashi; ELP wins.
- G1 Climax, B Block: SANADA VS Taichi; Sanada wins.
- G1 Climax, A Block: Jeff Cobb VS Bad Luck Fale; Cobb wins.
- G1 Climax, C Block: Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Tetsuya Naito; Tanahashi wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
G1 Climax, D Block: El Phantasmo VS Yujiro Takahashi w/ Pieter!
The Headbanga lost to Will Ospreay while the Tokyo Pimp had the Murder Machine help him cheat Tama Tonga. Both are Bullet Club, but the House of Torture’s been a bit on the fringe lately. Will ELP redeem himself for Bullet Club Prime? Or will the House cheat even their allies to win the G1?
ELP says hi to Pieter, Yujiro brings her over to say she can be in ELP’s corner for tonight. But that’s only if ELP lies down and lets Yujiro win. Wow, to think the Tokyo Pimp would live up to his name… ELP considers the offer, and says it’s all cool! They Too Sweet, Pieter is surprised, and ELP asks for a good luck kiss. Pieter gives him the kiss and fans applaud. The bell rings and ELP shakes hands with Yujiro. ELP lies down, and fans are pretty surprised. Yujiro slowly relaxes into the pin, TWO as ELP gets the ghost pin! TWO, and Yujiro is upset by the double cross! Yujiro shoves ELP, ELP shoves Yujiro then rolls him up, TWO!
Yujiro swings but ELP gets around to back slide, TWO! Yujiro is surprised he escaped, and ELP throws up the Too Sweet, to poke Yujiro in the eye! Clearly, the deal is off, Pieter goes back to Yujiro’s corner as ELP throws forearms. Yujiro goes to a corner, ELP CHOPS, then whips corner to corner. Yujiro runs into buckles chest first, and ELP CLAWS his back! ELP hoists Yujiro up top, brings him into the Tree of Woe and stomps a mudhole! Fans rally, ELP goes corner to corner to basement dropkick! Fans rally, “E L P!” “YU-JI-RO!” as ELP goes corner to corner again. ELP somersaults and basement dropkicks!
Yujiro falls out of the Tree and ELP pushes him out of the ring. ELP goes out to bring Yujiro up and CHOP! ELP forearms, CHOPS then forearms again. ELP brings Yujiro around and bumps him off the apron. ELP then goes up to BOOT Yujiro, and he ASAI MOONSAULTS! Direct hit at the ramp and fans fire up! Pieter is worried for Yujiro as ELP puts Yujiro in the ring. ELP climbs up the ropes to SWANTON! Cover, TWO! Yujiro is still in this but ELP says he’ll finish this. He reels Yujiro in, but Yujiro BITES the hand! Yujiro CLUBS the arm, but ELP ducks the haymaker to mule kick, front kick and ENZIGURI!
Fans fire up and ELP goes to a corner. ELP goes right up top, blows a kiss to Pieter, but Yujiro trips ELP up! ELP tumbles to the floor and Yujiro goes out after him. Yujiro hits PIMP JUICE to the floor! The ref checks on both men while fans rally up. Yujiro drags himself into the ring to leave ELP to the ring count. ELP flounders up and around, staggers at 8 of 20 but can’t get to the ring. He falls, gets back up at 16 but he tumbles into No Man’s Land! He’s all turned around! He slides in at 19.9!! Fans fire up but Yujiro is annoyed. Yujiro rains down hands on ELP, the ref reprimands over closed fists, and Yujiro lets off.
Yujiro brings ELP up as fans rally. Yujiro stands ELP against the ropes to then BOOT him! ELP flops down and Yujiro drags him to a cover, TWO! ELP is somehow still in this, but Yujiro clamps onto him with a chinlock. Fans rally as ELP endures, and ELP fights up. ELP Throws body shots, gets free, but Yujiro CLAWS ELP! Yujiro runs but ELP dodges. Yujiro dodges but ELP DROPKICKS him down! Fans fire up again as ELP and Yujiro stir on the mat. Yujiro rolls away to ropes, but ELP kips up! Fans rally and ELP rallies on Yujiro! Atomic drop and then a scoop SLAM! ELP then goes up the corner to FALLING ELBOW DROP!
Fans fire up as ELP tunes up the band. Yujiro stirs, but he blocks Sudden Death! Yujiro spins ELP around for a REVERSE DDT! Both men are down and fans rally up again. Yujiro drags ELP up, kicks low, throws forearms, then CHOPS! Yujiro whips ELP to ropes but ELP reverses. Yujiro holds ropes and FLAPJACK HOTSHOTS ELP! ELP sputters and staggers, into the FISHERMAN BUSTER! Cover, TWO!! ELP survives and fans rally up again. ELP checks his neck while getting to a corner. Yujiro storms over to bring ELP up. Yujiro whips corner to corner, but ELP goes up and over to roll and dodge and springboard CROSSBODY, to a LIONSAULT! Cover, TWO!
Fans fire up as both men are down again. ELP stands up and drags Yujiro up. ELP reels Yujiro in, BRAINBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Yujiro survives and ELP scowls. ELP brings Yujiro in, lifts him up and hits a SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO!! Yujiro barely survives that one but ELP just drags him back up. Straitjacket and torture rack, for the UFO SWINGING NECKBREAKER! The Unidentified Flying Opponent lands, cover, TWO!! With a low blow!! The Tokyo Pimp perhaps skirts the rules there, and ELP hobbles away to a corner. Yujiro staggers up and around, runs in and BOOTS ELP! Yujiro then reels ELP in, INCOLLE SLAM! Cover, TWO!!
ELP survives the Intercollegiate Slam, but Yujiro gets him back up to fireman’s carry. MIAMI SHINE!! Cover, TWO!?! ELP survives and Yujiro is shocked! Fans rally up and Yujiro drags ELP up. ELP throws body shots, but Yujiro still gives him PIMP JUICE! Cover, ?!??! ELP still has life and Yujiro is beside himself! Fans fire up as Yujiro argues with the ref, but the count is the count. Yujiro roars and drags ELP back up. BIG- No, ELP flops down! Is ELP done? He shakes his head, he won’t let this end here. Yujiro drags ELP back up then, for BIG- NO, ELP slips out, ducks under, SUDDEN DEATH!! And it was sudden!
Fans rally, ELP fires up, and he gets to a corner! ELP tunes up, the fans clap along, but wait! Sho is here! ELP rushes at Sho but Sho slides the wrench to Yujiro! The ref reprimands Sho for showing up, but ELP gives Sho PURPLE NURPLES! ELP lets Sho go, but turns around, WRENCH- NO! ELP ducks the wrench attack, and he LOW BLOWS Yujiro in return! ELP has the wrench now, but he SMACKS it in his hand then falls over! ELP using some Latino Heat to frame Yujiro! The ref asks what’s going on and Yujiro is speechless! Yujiro drops the wrench, ELP DICK PUNCHES Yujiro down! SUDDEN DEATH!! And then a DIVE onto Sho!!
Fans fire up and ELP goes up top, THUNDER KISS 86!! Cover, ELP wins!
Winner: El Phantasmo, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Yujiro earns 0)
The House of Torture tried to stack the deck again, but The Headbanga got the better of them all! Will Tokyo Pimp learn to do this legitimately next time? As for ELP, he kisses Pieter’s hand and lets the lady leave first. ELP still gets Pieter’s favor for the night after all! Will ELP score on top of getting more points in the G1?
G1 Climax, B Block: SANADA VS Taichi w/ Miho Abe!
Cold Skull was cut down by the Switchblade while the Holy Emperor broke through the Stone Pitbull! Los Ingobernables de Japon promised to get through to the semifinals together, will Sanada keep pace with Takagi? Or will Taichi make sure one block isn’t tranquilo?
Taichi shows off the dancing pecs and fans applaud. The bell rings and fans rally for “SA-NA-DA!” “TA-I-CHI!” Taichi still shows off the dancing pecs, so Sanada responds with his own. Taichi has things calm down, and the two tie up. Taichi puts Sanada on the ropes, and he lets off with pats to the pecs. Sanada shows off the dancing pecs again, so Taichi kicks him low. Taichi runs, they ram shoulders, but neither budges. Sanada’s pecs move, though, and he runs the ropes. Taichi dodges and bails out, slowing things down. Taichi takes his time returning, but he avoids Sanada’s Plancha! Sanada lands on his feet while Taichi gets in the ring.
Fans applaud as Taichi shows off his dancing pecs again. Sanada smirks and keeps cool while Taichi flexes. Sanada slides back in but Taichi throws him right back out! Taichi goes out but Sanada slides back in, and Sanada gets on the corner to show off those pecs. Fans rally up and Sanada encourages them to get louder. Sanada flexes, Taichi gets back in, and Taichi CHOKES Sanada! The ref counts, Taichi lets off, to then CHOKE Sanada more. Taichi digs his boot in and dares him to make those pecs dance again. Taichi lets off as the ref reprimands, then he drags Sanada up. Taichi snapmares Sanada to KICK him in the back!
Taichi paces, then gives Sanada toying stomps and kicks. Sanada slowly gets up, Taichi kicks and pie faces him, so Sanada fires off forearms! Sanada runs, into the kitchen sink knee! Taichi drags Sanada up, reels him in, and has the cobra twist! Sanada endures, Taichi CLUBS away on the ribs, then pushes Sanada down by his head. Fans rally, Sanada fights and moves forward, ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Taichi lets off, and then Taichi whips Sanada into the corner for a clothesline. Taichi runs but Sanada elbows him down! STANDING MOONSAULT, but Sanada lands on his feet as Taichi moves! So Sanada BASEMENT DROPKICKS!
Fans fire up while both men are down. Sanada kips up and fans fire up with him! Sanada runs and rallies on Taichi with forearms and arm-drags! Then a BIG atomic drop! Sanada throws Taichi out, and he PLANCHAS! Direct hit and fans fire up as Taichi goes down! Sanada encourages the fans to get louder and they oblige. The pecs dance along and Sanada gets Taichi back up. The ring count starts and Sanada puts Taichi in at 5 of 20. Cover, TWO! Sanada keeps cool and fans rally up. Sanada drags Taichi up, fireman’s carries, but Taichi slips off to waistlock. Sanada switches, shoves Taichi to a corner and runs in, but Taichi dodges, GAMANGIRI!
Sanada flops down and Taichi sits to catch his breath. Fans rally up, Taichi stands back up and runs in. Sanada boots Taichi, but runs into a SOBAT! DANGER- NO, Sanada slips out of the saido to suplex Taichi, but Taichi fights that off to wrench and HOOK KICK! Sanada stays up to DROPKICK! But Taichi rebounds to AX BOMBER! Fans fire up as Taichi leans on the ropes. Miho and the fans rally up, and Taichi TAKES OFF THE PANTS! Taichi aims from the corner, Sanada rises, TENSHO- ROLLING SOBAT from Sanada! Sanada gets the dragon sleeper! Taichi endures, and CHOKES Sanada from below! Taichi gets out but so does Sanada!
Taichi choke grips again, but Sanada fights! Taichi pushes Sanada to a corner, runs in but into BOOTS! Sanada goes up, leaps, but into NODO OTOSHI, the Choke Throw! Cover, TWO!! Sanada survives but Taichi drags him up. Fans rally and Taichi vows to end this! Alabama Lift, but Sanada slips off to fire off forearms! ROLLING- ENZIGURI from Taichi! But Sanada’s right back up! Sanada runs to ROLLING ELBOW! But Taichi’s back up, only to swing into chicken wings! TIGER SUPLEX! Bridging cover, ONE?!? Sanada swings, into the SAIDO!! Cover, ONE!?!? Both men stagger about then drop, and fans are thunderous!
Miho pounds the mat to rally for Taichi as he and Sanada stir. Both men slowly rise, Taichi roars and crawls to center. Taichi wants Sanada to stand up, and Sanada drags himself up in a corner. Taichi runs in, but into an elbow! Sanada goes up but Taichi CLUBS him! Taichi CLUBS Sanada more, then climbs up to join him! Taichi drags Sanada up to clamp on the choke grip! SUPER NODO- NO, Sanada backflips through! Sanada waistlocks, O’Conner Roll and deep, TWO!!! Taichi escapes but then Sanada fireman’s carries, T K O!! Cover, TWO!! Taichi survives but Sanada points to the camera and slashes his through. He’ll finish this now!
Sanada drags Taichi up while fans rally, dragon sleeper! SKULL END!! The body scissors are in, Taichi is caught and Miho is worried! Taichi flails, reaches out, but he’s fading! Sanada cranks back, Taichi grabs at Sanada’s hair but it doesn’t do enough! The ref checks, Taichi is fading, and Sanada lets him go to go up top! ROUNDING BODY PRESS onto knees! Taichi hurries to hook Sanada up, GEDO- NO, Sanada makes it a JAPANESE BRIDGE, but Taichi blocks it! And CLAWS Sanada’s eyes! Taichi turns Sanada over, GEDO CLUTCH! TWO!!! Sanada escapes and Taichi is shocked! Fans are thunderous as both men stand!
Taichi DECKS Sanada with the elbow! The ref checks on Sanada, knowing about that bad orbital bone. Taichi gets up, fires up, and fans fire up with him! Taichi drags Sanada up, reels him in, but Sanada blocks the lift! Taichi gives Kowata Kicks, some real sauce on the last one! BLINDSIDE AX BOMBER, then a GAMANGIRI! The bad eye!! Taichi fires up, throws off his armbands and reels Sanada in! But Sanada fights the Alabama to gut wrench! But Taichi slips off the Canadian Rack! Sanada and Taichi clinch, Taichi gets the SUMO THROW! Then he sets up, YOKOZUNA- NO, Sanada ducks, O’Conner BRIDGE!! Cover, SANADA WINS!!
Winner: Sanada, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Taichi earns 0)
The Holy Emperor can’t believe it! He gets caught off-guard by a technical move and is now 1-1 in the G1! Will Taichi still have time to catch up with the top of the block? As for Sanada, he keeps pace with Takagi, will LIJ all redeem themselves in this round?
G1 Climax, A Block: Jeff Cobb VS Bad Luck Fale!
The Imperial Unit could not conquer the Rainmaker while the Rogue General was able to give the Murderhawk Monster the slip. But now, it’s a battle of behemoths! Which massive monster survives this colossal collision to head for the Climax?
The bell rings and fans rally up as the two circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and then break. They circle again, tie up again, and are in another deadlock so they break. Cobb and Fale go again but Fale knees low! Fale slaps Cobb, Cobb ROCKS Fale with forearms! Fale throws heavy body shots and ROCKS Cobb in return with a forearm! Fans fire up as Fale runs in, but Cobb dodges the splash! Fale bounces off buckles, and Cobb clotheslines him up and out! Fale staggers back against the railing and fans rally. Cobb goes to the apron but Fale sweeps his legs! And then CLOBBERS Cobb off the apron!
Fale takes a moment, the ring count starts and Fale gets in. Cobb is still down at 7 of 20, sits up at 10, and slides in at 11. Fale stomps him down, stands on Cobb’s back at the ropes, but steps away as Red Shoes counts. Cobb sits up and winces while fans rally up. Fale brings Cobb up, Cobb throws body shots and haymakers, but Fale throws shots right back! Fale CLUBS Cobb on the back and stalks him to a corner. Fale CLUBS Cobb with both hands and Cobb is grimacing from the pain! Fale talks trash on Cobb but Cobb throws forearms to back him down! Fale CLUBS Cobb again, then again and again and again!
Cobb falls over and Fale drags him to center. Fale stands on Cobb’s back, then stands on him to surf! Fans fire up and Fale hops off to cover, TWO! Fans rally up while Fale stomps Cobb’s back. Cobb crawls, Fale taunts him, but Cobb throws more body shots. Fale throws hard shots, whips Cobb to ropes, but Cobb LARIATS! Fale wobbles but Cobb LARIATS again! Fale is still on his feet but Cobb runs, into a throat chop! Fale runs, into a DROPKICK! Fale staggers around, Cobb fireman’s carries, but his back holds him back! Fale slips off to CLUB Cobb again! Cobb falls down and Fale runs the ropes, to drop a BIG elbow! Cover, TWO!
Fans rally as Cobb is still in this. Fale runs to SPLASH down! Cover, TWO! Cobb is still in this and Fale is frustrated. Fale waits on Cobb to get up, he’s armed and ready, and he choke grips Cobb! Cobb breaks free to ROCK Fale with a forearm! Cobb whips but Fale blocks! Fale whips Cobb into a corner and SPLASHES him! Cobb staggers, Fale reels him in and calls for it. Fale gets Cobb into the crucifix lift, but Cobb slips off! SUPERKICK! Fale staggers, Cobb reels him in, and SUPLEXES FALE!! Cobb fires up and the fans fire up with him! Fale staggers up, into a TOUR OF THE ISLANDS!!! Cover, Cobb wins!!
Winner: Jeff Cobb, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Fale earns 0)
That was an extra large Tour, and Cobb conquers the literally biggest monster in this block! Will the Imperial Unit pave the way to the semifinals from here on out?
G1 Climax, C Block: Hiroshi Tanahashi VS Tetsuya Naito!
Rather shockingly, The Ace was trumped by the Ultimate Weapon, and the Uncontrollable Charisma could not make the Fierce Warrior tranquilo. Only one can get their first win of this G1, who takes hold of redemption with their own two hands?
Tanahashi shows off the muscles and fans cheer. Naito finishes taking off his entrance attire and fans applaud. The bell rings, fans rally up, “Let’s Go, Ace!” “NA-I-TO!” as the two stare down. They circle, approach, tie up, and Naito gets around but Tanahashi switches. Naito wrenches, Tanahashi wrenches back, but Naito drop toeholds and headlocks. Tanahashi slips out to facelock, but Naito rolls to get to his feet. Tanahashi has the arm and double wristlocks to drag Naito down. Naito endures, reaches out, and he fights up to trip Tanahashi. Naito gets Tanahashi’s legs, turns him around and snapmares him to a chinlock.
Tanahashi slips out, facelocks, floats to a chinlock and fans applaud this exchange but it’s still going! Naito rolls Tanahashi, Tanahashi rolls Naito, Naito headscissors, Tanahashi kips free! The two stand off and fans cheer this exchange as it completes. Naito and Tanahashi reset and tie up. They’re in a deadlock, Tanahashi powers Naito back slowly, and Naito is on the ropes. Naito turns it around on Tanahashi, then pats Tanahashi on the shoulders. Tanahashi turns things around but Naito turns them back. They end up in the corner, Tanahashi pats Naito’s shoulders but Naito pulls Tanahashi’s hair!
Red Shoes reprimands Naito but Tanahashi fires off fast hands! Fans fire up as Tanahashi keeps throwing forearms! Red Shoes reprimands, Tanahashi lets off, but Naito kicks low and whips Tanahashi to a corner. Tanahashi elbows back, goes up and CROSSBODIES! Direct hit, and then Tanahashi mocks Tranquilo! Fans rally up, “Let’s Go, Ace!” “NA-I-TO!” Tanahashi whips Naito to ropes, but Naito holds ropes to stop himself. Naito BOOTS Tanahashi, then rakes the eyes! Naito throws Tanahashi out but Tanahashi skins the cat! Naito stops that to push Tanahashi back out and dropkick him down! Fans fire up while Naito goes out after Tanahashi.
Naito whips Tanahashi hard into railing, and Tanahashi drops to the floor! Red Shoes reprimands, Naito wrenches and whips Tanahashi hard into railing! Commentary takes a bit of that but stays standing as the ring count starts again. Naito stands Tanahashi up for a BACKBREAKER, and then the LEG LOCK NELSON! The ring count is 15 of 20! Naito lets go at 18, gets Tanahashi in at 19, and fans applaud that Naito wants to end this in the ring. Naito snapmares, then puts the LEG LOCK NELSON back on! Tanahashi endures, fans rally up, but Naito thrashes him around. Tanahashi moves around, reaches out, and gets the ROPEBREAK!
Red Shoes reprimands and counts, Naito lets go at 4. Fans rally harder, “Let’s Go, Ace!” “NA-I-TO!” Naito drags Tanahashi up but Tanahashi fires body shots. Naito CLUBS away on Tanahashi, turns him around and hits a NECKBREAKER! Then he stands Tanahashi up to whip into a corner. Naito hoists Tanahashi up top, brings him out along the ropes, DRAPING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Naito isn’t upset while the fans rally up more. Naito kicks Tanahashi around, stands on Tanahashi’s face and poses. Fans applaud and Naito scuffs Tanahashi’s face. Tanahashi sits up but Naito kicks him again and again.
Naito stomps Tanahashi back down, digs a knee into his back and pulls on the ponytail! Red Shoes reprimands, Naito lets go, and fans rally again. Naito gives more toying kicks but Tanahashi snarls. Tanahashi eggs Naito on but Naito kicks and kicks. SHOTEI from Tanahashi! Naito staggers away, Tanahashi runs in at the corner, but he blocks Naito’s boot! DRAGON SCREW! Naito clutches his leg while fans fire up again. Tanahashi drags Naito up, and he fires off forearm after forearm! Tanahashi scoops and SLAMS Naito into a drop zone, then he goes up the corner. To FLYING STOMP the bad leg!! Tanahashi faked Naito out and Naito clutches his knee!
Fans are stunned silent at The Ace’s savagery, but then they rally up again. Tanahashi gets the legs, ties them up, but Naito fires off haymakers! Naito kicks but Tanahashi gets the leg for a GROUND DRAGON SCREW! Tanahashi fires up and fans rally behind him, “HA! HA! HA!” Tanahashi waits on Naito to get up, and Tanahashi runs, but into an atomic drop! Naito shoves Tanahashi away, runs in and JUMP KICKS! Leg sweep, COMBINACION CABRON! Naito poses again and fans fire up! Naito manages to stand, he drags Tanahashi back up and reels him into the corner. ESPERANZA! Fans fire up but Naito goes back to the corner to watch Tanahashi rise.
Naito runs in, but into an elbow! Naito catches it to hook Tanahashi, hammerlock and half nelson, GLORIA! Cover, TWO! Naito hurries to get Tanahashi tied up in PLUMA BLANCA! Tanahashi endures as fans rally up and Naito pulls tight! Tanahashi moves around, reaches out, crawls his way over, but Naito pulls on the hold! Tanahashi keeps fighting his way over, ROPEBREAK! Naito holds until Red Shoes reprimands, and Tanahashi sputters. The fans rally up again while Naito stands. Naito drags Tanahashi up, throws those heavy back elbows, and he slaps Tanahashi around as he drops to a knee.
Naito brings Tanahashi back up, throws more back elbows, then lets Tanahashi drop down again. Fans continue to rally, “Let’s Go, Ace!” “NA-I-TO!” and Naito stands Tanahashi back up for even more back elbows! Tanahashi staggers and flops into a corner, but Naito stands him back up. Naito puts Tanahashi on the top rope, climbs up after him, and SUPER STEINERS, but Tanahashi sunset flips through it! TWO!! Naito swings, but into Tanahashi’s GERMAN SUPLEX! Tanahashi runs, but into a SPINEBUSTER! Naito hurries to wrench, but Tanahashi gets the leg! DRAGON SCREW! Both men are down again and fans fire up!
Tanahashi grits his teeth as he forces himself to get up. Naito works to get feeling in his bad leg, but Tanahashi fires up! Tanahashi and Naito start throwing haymakers and forearms! Tanahashi eggs Naito on, Naito hits him, and the brawl goes back and forth! Fans rally up with each shot, and they go faster and faster! Tanahashi fires off body shots and forearms, but Naito hits back with forearms of his own! Tanahashi fires off another flurry, and fans fire up as both men wobble! Naito smirks but Tanahashi grins. Fans rally up as the forearms continue! Naito gets the edge, but Tanahashi comes back with fast hands!
Naito kicks but Tanahashi blocks! So Naito rakes the eyes! Naito throws more back elbows, then ENZIGURIS! Naito whips Tanahashi to ropes but Tanahashi reverses. Naito reverses back, Tanahashi gets in to clinch, and fans rally for the deadlock! Tanahashi gets Naito for TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT! Tanahashi drags Naito up, another TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT! And then a third TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT! Fans fire up again as Tanahashi drags Naito up. Tanahashi whips, Naito reverses but Tanahashi reverses to SLINGBLADE! And another SLINGBLADE! And a third SLINGBLADE! Cover, TWO!! Tanahashi hurries up top as Naito stands, HIGH FLY ATTACK!
Fans fire up as Tanahashi goes back up, for HIGH FLY FLOW FLOP!! Running jackknife bridge, TWO!!! Tanahashi survives and fans are thunderous! Naito and Tanahashi stir, push up off the mat, and Tanahashi roars as he rises! Naito is in a corner, Tanahashi throws elbows, SHOTEI, but Naito SLAPS! And SLAPS! And whips! Tanahashi whips, but Naito FLYING FOREARMS! Naito hurries to get Tanahashi up, scoop for VALENTIA! Naito brings Tanahashi back up, wrenches, but Tanahashi cradles! TANAHASHI WINS!!
Winner: Hiroshi Tanahashi, by pinfall (gains 2 points; Naito earns 0)
The Ace snatches victory from the jaws of defeat and Naito is stunned! Naito is 0-2 in what very well could be his last G1! Will this guarantee that this is Naito’s last if he can’t return to the top this way? Or is there somehow a way we’ll see Naito in the finals?
As for Tanahashi, he tries to encourage Naito, but Naito just exits the ring. Tanahashi catches his breath and goes to leave. The fans clap, “Let’s Go, Ace!” so Tanahashi gives thumbs up and gets the mic! “Everyone, thank you for coming out here tonight! It’s thanks to everyone here coming out to support us that we wrestlers can perform to the best of our ability. Right here, in this summer G1! The first one in a few years, and you all came here for it.” Tanahashi knows everyone is wondering how he can make it through. He asks them how they, the wrestlers, can help the fans enjoy wrestling even more.
Tanahashi has his answer. After searching for it long and hard, the answer is: to win this G1 in a snap! So everyone, Tanahashi wants you to know, “ASHITE MAAASU~! <I LOVE YOOOU~!>” Fans applaud as Tanahashi’s music hits and he gives the mic back. Fans continue to applaud, so Tanahashi gives them more of himself! He goes around ringside to make sure he thanks all parts of the crowd. Will the Once in a Century Talent use this love, energy and momentum to win big and head for WrestleKingdom?
My Thoughts:
Another great round for the G1, and with some really wild results. ELP VS Yujiro was good stuff, though the crowd didn’t quite get into it right away. I think that was how the previous Yujiro match went, actually. But ELP winning out against all the House of Torture screw jobs and (for the moment) snatching Pieter away from Yujiro, that’s pretty wild stuff. I wonder if this will motivate more Bullet Club Prime VS House of Torture stuff. Sanada VS Taichi was great stuff, they’re developing quite the rivalry, and the roll-up finish was a great way to finish so that Taichi isn’t really hurt outside of losing points.
Cobb VS Fale was great stuff, too, with Fale getting to look strong dominating Cobb. Cobb wins out to get some great momentum as he gets back up in the block. And we got awesome stuff in the main event, with strong story beats in both that two big names like Tanahashi and Naito were both facing 0-2, and that as Naito sees it, this is his last NJPW year, between now and WrestleKingdom 17. He’s certainly on the ropes, figuratively speaking, and he’s got Evil next. That has tons of story to emotionally charge it as it is, and the idea that Evil could basically ruin Naito’s final G1 would be a prize in itself for the King of Darkness.
My Score: 8.8/10
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Could this be the biggEST and strongEST SmackDown of the year?
SmackDown in Knoxville sees the returns of Bianca Belair, Cody Rhodes and John Cena, along with some final Money in the Bank qualifiers!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier Triple Threat: Jade Cargill VS Naomi VS Nia Jax; Naomi wins and advances to Money in the Bank.
- R-Truth VS JC Mateo w/ Solo Sikoa; Mateo wins.
- Rey Fenix & Je’Von Evans VS Los Garza w/ Santos Escobar; Los Garza win.
- Zelina Vega VS Alba Fyre w/ The Green Administration; Zelina wins.
- Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier Triple Threat: Carmelo Hayes VS Andrade VS Jacob Fatu; Andrade wins and advances to Money in the Bank.
PLAY BY PLAY
Bianca Belair is here!
Knoxville fires up for their strongEST, fastEST, quickEST, toughEST, roughEST, and greatEST hometown hero as she struts out to the ring. Bianca high-fives and hugs fans along the ramp, as well as mom and dad at ringside. Bianca then grabs a mic to say, “Man, it feels good to be in Knoxville!” The fans cheer and chant for “EST! EST!” Bianca says she loves them so much. And she couldn’t come out here without singing Rocky Top! Y’all ready? The fans cheer, and the music plays! Bianca conducts the fans as they sing for the University of Tennessee. In fact, the Lady Vols softball team is playing in the Super Regionals right now!
Bianca smiles and says this city is so special to her. Not just because it is her hometown, but because it is her safe space. She has her love and support from mom ‘n’ dad, and has all the fans who show up and show out for her. With everything Bianca’s been going through, losing at Mania, getting injured, losing tag titles and friends along the way, she just wanted to come back home to her safe space. The fans cheer, and Bianca says she came home to heal. While she’s not 100%, she is doing everything she can to get back to the ring and continue to show us why she is the EST of Tennessee and of WWE! The fans cheer that!
Bianca says with all that said, Knoxville, welcome to Friday Night SmackDown! But wait, she’s interrupted by Naomi! The fans boo but Naomi says, “Oh my gosh~! Finally! B, I am so glad you finally here on SmackDown!” Bianca says now is not the time, Naomi. Naomi asks Bianca to please hear her out. It has been way too long. Not a day has gone by when Naomi doesn’t think about what happened to them. What is there to talk about? What could Naomi say? What could she want from Bianca? The fans chant “YOU SUCK!” at Naomi, and Naomi says she just wants forgiveness. She is begging for it!
Naomi knows things go toff the rails, but she is here because she wants to fix it, she is trying to fix it, but she alone can’t fix it. Months have gone by, and Naomi has tried to communicate, to say the past can be the past and that they can move forward. Bianca has not responded back to Naomi once. Naomi even visited Bianca’s parent’s house! But no one would answer! WHAT?! Mom ‘n’ Dad don’t know about that, but Naomi says no one was home, so she let herself in! Naomi looked through the photo albums, the one right on the front coffee table. And in those photos, Bianca looked so happy. It reminded Naomi of how they were as tag team champions.
Bianca stops Naomi there. Naomi, Bianca will make this perfectly clear. They were best friends, but Naomi betrayed Bianca’s trust. Naomi took their friend, Jade, and threw her onto a car, then lied about it for months! Bianca said she was done with Naomi, she meant that, and if Naomi ever comes near her family again, what Naomi did to Jade will be nothing compared to what Bianca does to Naomi. The fans fire up for that! Naomi gets emotional, but then she gets mad. “Y’know, Bianca, it wouldn’t be good for you and your mama to be in a wheelchair.” The fans boo as Naomi laughs maniacally. Naomi says she’d hate if something happened to Bianca here and now!
Naomi storms up on Bianca, but then JADE makes her way out here! Naomi is even angrier now, but this Storm starts throwing hands! The fans fire up as Jade BOOTS Naomi down! Bianca and Jade look to each other, neither really saying or doing anything. Naomi runs up but Jade TOSSES her out! Jade and Bianca look to each other again, but then here comes NIA! The Irresistible Force won’t be left out of this, especially when this is the Women’s Triple Threat Qualifier for the night! This match now opens the night, who earns SmackDown’s final golden ticket to the Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match?
Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier Triple Threat: Jade Cargill VS Naomi VS Nia Jax!
SmackDown returns, this match is already going, and Naomi POSTS Nia! Naomi stalks Jade, rains down forearms, and the fans boo. Naomi stomps to BITE Jade’s hand! Jade still fights back, so Naomi has the arms to STOMP Jade down! Naomi flexes, the fans boo, and Naomi puts Jade in a corer. Naomi runs to DROPKICK Jade in the corner! Naomi SLAPS Jade, drags her into the drop zone, then goes up, up, and twerks! HIP DROP! Naomi covers, ROPEBREAK! Naomi is annoyed but she sits Jade up to stomp a mudhole in. But Nia runs up! Naomi dodges, the HIP ATTACK hits Jade! Naomi goes to the apron to ROUNDHOUES Nia!
Naomi reels Nia in for a HEATSEEKER! Nia flops to the floor, the fans rally for Jade, but Naomi kicks her around. Naomi goes up the corner, leaps, but Jade catches her! Jade FALL AWAY SLAMS Naomi, then kips up! Knoxville fires up with Jade and she runs up to LARIAT! And ELBOW! And SCRAPBUSTER! Cover, Nia breaks it! The fans boo but Nai huffs ‘n’ puffs and drags Naomi up. Nia whips Naomi, pops her up and HEADBUTTS her down! Then she SAMOAN DROPS Naomi! Nia soaks up heat, then lines the two up. Naomi grabs at Nia’s leg but Nia CLUBS her down! Nia stomps Jade for good measure, then drops a leg, brother!
Nia TOSSES Jade out, then goes up the corner. Nia SUPER LEG DROPS on Naomi!! Cover, TWO!!! Naomi survives and Nia is shocked! The fans rally while Nia stalks Naomi. Naomi clings to ropes as Nia pulls at her arm. Nia CLUBS Naomi, whips her to ropes, then SAMOAN DROP- NO, Naomi makes it a CRUCIFIX DRIVER! Ghost pin, TWO!! Nia survives the sudden turnaround, Naomi sees Jade crawling in, and Naomi goes after her as SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Naomi KICKS Nia while she’s down, then kicks her more. Naomi puts Nia in a corner, CHOKES her on the ropes, then clamps on with a SLEEPER! Nia THROWS Naomi away, then TOSSES her out. Nia soaks up heat, but Jade runs in and rolls Nia up! TWO! Nia stands, and she HEADBUTTS Jade down! Nia looms over Jade, drags her up, but Jade fires forearms! Jade backs Nia down, then runs, and she CLOBBERS Nia outta the ring! Jade fires up and has the fans with her. Jade drags Naomi up from the apron but Naomi fires hands. Nia is back to HIP ATTACK Jade against the POST! Nia soaks up more heat, then taunts Naomi.
Naomi stands on the apron, argues with Nia, but they apparently agree to mug Jade for both their benefit. They put Jade in the corner, Naomi digs her boot in, and then Nia sends Naomi in for a SPALSH! Nia adds a SPLASH of her own! Naomi snapmares Jade, runs, and SLIDING LARIATS! Jade sputters and Nia taunts her. Nia and Naomi soak up the heat together, but Jade fights back! Nia HEADBUTTS Jade down! Nia drags Jade up, and Naomi KICKS Jade low! They soak up more heat, talk trash on Jade, and SmackDown returns to single picture. Nia scoops and SIDEWALK SLAMS! Naomi runs to SPLIT LEG DROP! Cover, but Nia drags Naomi away!
Nia and Naomi argue again, and then Naomi rolls Nia up! ONE, and Nia grabs Naomi to shove her to a corner! Nia SPLASHES, then pushes Naomi down. Nia runs to SENTON! Nia grins while Naomi sputters and the fans rally up. Jade rises to fire forearms on Nia! Then she ELBOWS Naomi in a corner! She ELBOWS Nia, but then Nia follows Jade! Jade dodges so Nia SPLASHES Naomi! Jade then SUPERKICKS! Nia wobbles, Jade SUPERKICKS again! And SPINEBUSTERS! But Naomi METEORAS! Cover, TWO! Jade survives and the fans rally up. Naomi goes up, SPLIT- LEG MOONSAULT on Nia! But Jade has Naomi in the chicken wings!
Jade brings Naomi around, JADED!! Cover, Nia CLOBBERS them both! The fans rally while all three women are down! Nia climbs a corner, Jade is after her with forearms! Naomi joins in, drags Jade back, but now they trade shots! Nia DOUBLE CROSSBODIES! Cover on Jade, TWO! Cover on Naomi, TWO! Nia grows frustrated but the fans rally up again. Nia drag Naomi up, fireman’s carries, and she climbs the corner! The fans already anticipate what’s coming, SUPER SAMOAN DROP!! Cover, JADE FROG SPLASHES IN!! Cover, TWO!!! The fans fire up while all three women are down again! “This is Awesome!”
Jade rises, she clamps onto Nia, but Nia HEADBUTTs her! And HEADBUTTS Naomi! Jade BOOTS Nia down! Cover, TWO! Jade runs up on Naomi but Naomi BOOTS her! Naoim goes up top but Jade is right on her! They fight for control, but then Nia joins in! TOWER OF DOOM!! Nia double stacks her opponents, for a A-NIA-LATOR!! Naomi avoids it, Jade takes it all! Naomi ghost pins Nia, AND WINS!!
Winner: Naomi, by pinfall (advances to Money in the Bank)
Nia did a lot of the damage, but it is Naomi who wins out! Will everyone in the Women’s MITB Ladder Match now have to #ProceedWithCaution?
Solo Sikoa’s crew arrives.
Solo says they will win Money in the Bank together! Jacob Fatu, Solo Sikoa, whichever one wins MITB wins it fof the family! But then they hear R-Truth talking to… Lil’ Jimmy? Solo says Truth’s childhood hero beats him, and now he’s talking to ghosts. Truth taps Solo on the shoulder and asks if there’s something Solo wants to say. Solo says Truth is crazy touching him. JC Mateo steps up but Solo has him stand down. Truth says he wants to be honest. He’s never seen JC a day before in his life. Is this Solo’s son? He’s husky! Truth asks if he can teach Solo’s husky son a lesson in the ring. Solo says that sounds good to him.
Truth says he’ll go talk to Nick Aldis. “Boy, y’all big boneded!” Truth heads off, and Solo says don’t worry, they’ll take care of him. Let’s have fun. Fatu says keep it 100. They can have their fun, he’s got his own business to take care of. Yadada mean? The Imperial Unit against Truth, Samoan Werewolf in a qualifier, will everything go the family’s way?
Chelsea Green confronts Nick Aldis.
The Hot Mess hides behind a cardboard cutout of herself as she tells the SmackDown General Manager, “What happened on Saturday night was a deliberate-” Piper Niven has to direct Chelsea to point at Aldis, and Aldis says he can’t quite understand her from behind the cardboard mask. Piper holds the mask between Chelsea and camera, though we do get a glimpse of her fancy headgear. Chelsea repeats herself, but Aldis says she needs to be looking at him when they talk. Chelsea hides her face in shame, but she says it is still a deliberate hitjob put on by vicious Zelina Vega! Even her Secret Her-vice could not stop it!
Chelsea demands that Zelina be suspended, stripped of her title, and that Chelsea be reinstated as the champion! Chelsea, no need to be so ugly about this. Gasp! Aldis says what he means is, no suspensions, and we can talk a rematch down the road once Chelsea is medically cleared. Then he is doing nothing for what Zelina did to Chelsea?! Alba says if he won’t, then they will! Yeah, Zelina VS Alba! Tonight! Alba is a bit surprised, but Aldis says, “Chelsea knows best. Alba VS Zelina, I actually like the sound of that. I will make that official right now, if you do one thing for me. Please leave me alone.”
The Green Administration hurries away, but will Alba make sure Chelsea brand justice is served? Or will La Muneca just keep racking up the wins?
Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.
Byron Saxton is with the WWE Women’s Champion, and says that MITB is around the corner. Tiff successfully cashed in her own contract to become champion, but how is she handling the pressure of knowing the same thing could happen to her? Tiff says she can’t wait to see who wins MITB. Then she can handle the pressure by being prepared. Having this title makes her the top threat to the division, but let’s be fair. She’s always been the girl everyone has been obsessed with. So whoever wins, targeting her will be a big mistake. But then in steps Naomi.
Naomi says if Tiff thought Nia was a problem, then she ain’t seen nothing yet. Naomi vows to win MITB and cash in for Tiff’s title, wherever and whenever she wants. And in case Lil’ Miss Tiffy forgot, when Naomi was fighting for a championship, Tiff stayed in Naomi’s way. Wanna know what happens when people play with Naomi? Just ask Jade. Naomi heads out, and Alexa Bliss steps in. Alexa says she wouldn’t be so worried about Naomi. Be worried about Alexa. Alexa heads out now, Tiff clutches to the title a little bit tighter, who will be trying to run the clock out on Tiffy Time?
R-Truth VS JC Mateo w/ Solo Sikoa!
To Solo’s point, #RonCena could not make John Cena see the light at Saturday Night’s Main Event, and Truth might be relapsing if he’s talking to Lil’ Jimmy again. But will Truth relapse so far that we get the R-Truth that was once United States Champion? Or will a Tour of the Islands send Truth off the deep end?
SmackDown returns and JC makes his entrance, Solo backing him up. The bell rings and Truth runs up, only for JC to RAM him into a corner! JC RAMS Truth again and again, then lets off. JC whips corner to corner hard and Truth falls in a heap! JC whips corner to corner again just as hard, and Truth falls in a heap again. Solo talks trash but the fans rally behind Truth. JC runs up but Truth dodges! Truth SHOULDER TACKLES! JC stays up, so Truth runs and SHOULDER TACKLES! “What’s Up?” Truth runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, and SHOULDER TACKLES! Then he hits the SPIN OUT- CROSSBODY! JC then gets up to GACHIMUCHI MOONSAULT!
JC smirks as he looms over Truth, and Solo says to finish this off now. JC runs to SENTON but Truth moves! Truth calls for it! “YOU CAN’T SEE ME!” FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Truth fireman’s carries JC, but JC is too much! Truth falls over again! Solo laughs, JC whips, TOUR OF THE ISLANDS!! Cover, JC wins!
Winner: JC Mateo, by pinfall
Truth tried to be like John Cena of old, but it just wasn’t meant to be. JC beats up on Truth more, then stands him up for Solo! But here comes BIG Jim! Jimmy has a chair, he runs JC off, but Solo stands his ground. Solo says his brother wouldn’t hit him with that chair, would he? Jimmy steps to Solo so Solo steps out, but that lets JC CLOBBER Jimmy! But then Solo has JC stand down! They’re family! Solo and JC leave, leaving Jimmy wondering what this is about. Will Jimmy make it clear to Solo that Jimmy’s not the one who has to come to his senses?
The Street Profits are here!
The WWE Tag Team Champions walk through the smoke to be on stage and the fans cheer. Angelo Dawkins & Montez Ford hold up the titles, walk to the ring, then step inside. The fans cheer as they hold up the belts again, then the Profits grab the mics. Ford says, “Knoxville, Tennessee, oh I love everything about you, and what I have, too. But lemme rap to y’all real fast. This tag team division that we’re a part of, the greatest tag team division on any brand, any promotion… It’s on fire right now.” Dawkins says, “Talk to ’em.” Ford says, “But just like how the gorilla fears us, make no mistake about it, let’s not forget who’s leading the charge right now: The Street Profits.”
The fans cheer, and Dawkins says hey, they got all the teams coming at ’em! DIY, Motor City Machine Guns, Fraxiom, and now… The Wyatts?! The fans cheer that, and Ford says that’s sick. But what big bro is saying, it don’t matter who it is, the Profits will defend against anybody. Well hold on, here comes Fraxiom! Nathan Frazer & Axiom go to the ring to stand with the Profits, and they have mics. Frazer says alright, since the Profits are talking about defending the titles, well, Frazer & Axiom didn’t exactly get a fair shake. Ford says, “Fraxiom, is it?” He congratulates them for being on a roll, but up until the Wyatt Sick6 got in the Profits’ business…
Yeah, the Profits had them beat. Wow, oh, okay. Sure, maybe… But maybe not. Thanks to the Wyatts, we’ll never know. And now that those shenanigans are behind us, it is fair to say that Fraxiom and the Profits need to run it back! The fans like the sound of that! But wait, here come the Machine Guns! Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin have mics, and Shelley says okay, hold on, sorry to interrupt. Fraxiom’s entire basis for a rematch is that the Profits never beat them. Well, last time Shelley checked, the Profits never beat MCMG! So if they’re handing out title matches, MCMG will take one. But naturally, here comes DIY!
Tommaso Ciampa, Johnny Gargano, and Candice LeRae have their own mics, and the Poison Pixie says no no no no. She is pretty sure “you losers” have had a million chances, and “the nerds” just got here. Whoa, hold on? Just got here? Sounds like Candice just got back, so she should do us a favor and shut up. Gargano says you shut up, idiot! The reason DIY brought in Gargano’s beautiful wife is to even the odds against all of what this is! Everyone can see there is a conspiracy in the tag team division to hold down the BTTITW! And now with the Wyatts showing up- Ciampa has Gargano ixnay on the amily-fay.
Do not talk about you know who, scratch that, let’s get to business. All these teams have all KILLED the tag division that DIY built! Matter of fact, let us hold a moment of silence for the death of the SmackDown Tag Division. Everyone, stand up, bow your heads, and give a moment of silence… now. OH NO! The lights go out! All the teams panic, because when the lights turn on, UNCLE HOWDY is on the corner! Howdy laughs, because the rest of the Wyatts flank the ring! Erick Rowan drags MCMG out to DOUBLE LARIAT! Dexter Lumis is up top to CANNONBALL onto the Profits and Gargano! Joe Gacy is in, and he handsprings to bring Fraxiom to the UPSIDE-DOWN!!
Lumis then runs, POWERBOMB SENTON COMBO on Axiom! Ciampa freaks out, turns around, and Nikki Cross is there! CROSSBODY onto Candice! The fans fire up, and Howdy has Frazer for SISTER ABIGAIL! “We’re here!!” It is just as the Profits said, and now it is clear. Will some killer combination of the Wyatts go right after the gold?
Rey Fenix & Je’Von Evans VS Los Garza w/ Santos Escobar!
Worlds Collide is just over a week away, and all four of these men will be involved. The Immortal Firebird and the Young OG are going after the NXT North American Championship in a Fatal 4 Way while Legado Del Fantasma will be taking on AAA’s Pagano, Psycho Clown y El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. Who will be heading for Los Angeles with all the momentum behind them?
Speaking of that North American Championship, the champion is here! Ethan Page joins commentary and says what a year for him, to be honest. Wade says that title has never looked better than on Ethan’s shoulder. Fenix makes his entrance now, followed by Je’Von’s. The teams sort out and Fenix starts against Angel. Angel and Fenix circle, the fans rally up, and the two tie up. Angel fires a forearm, Fenix fires back, repeat! Fenix gets the edge but Angel shoves then drops down. Fenix cartwheels over the dropdown, then comes back, ducks ‘n’ dodges, and RANAS! Angel tumbles, the fans fire up, and Fenix somersaults, but into a fireman’s carry!
Fenix slips free, ripcords to ROUNDHOUSE, but Angel HEADBUTTS! Both men stagger back, tags to Berto and Je’Von! Je’Von dodges and springboards to BOUNCY~ roll-up! TWO, and Berto mule kicks! Berto CLUBS Je’Von, whips, but Je’Von reverses and slips around. Berto bucks the O’Conner, springboards and CROSSBODIES! Cover, TWO! Berto drags Je’Von up, but Je’Von kicks! Berto blocks, but the ENZIGIRI hits! Je’Von runs up, and BOUNCY~ RANAS! The fans fire up and Je’Von DROPKICKS! Berto bails out, Angel runs in, but Je’Von goes Matrix to dodge! Je’Von kips up, and STUNNERS! Angel flops back and the fans fire up!
Los Garza regroups, Je’Von tags Fenix, and they build speed, but have to dodge Angel first. Fenix SOBATS, Je’Von KICKS, and both men ENZIGIRI! Berto is up top, he leaps, but into DOUBLE SUPERKICKS! Cover, TWO! Fenix runs to basement CALF KICK! Cover, TWO! Berto stays in this for Los Garza while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Fenix drags Berto up to RAM him into the corner. Tag to Je’Von and they mug Berto. Berto fires hands back on Je’Von, but Je’Von headlocks. Berto powers up and out and Angel tags in. Berto drop toeholds Je’Von into Angel’s KNEE at the ropes! Angel TEARS OFF HIS PANTS! Angel drapes those over Je’Von before he KICKS Je’Von in the side! Angel stalks Je’Von to the corner, tags Berto, and they shove Je’Von for a double hip toss, TU LO SABE! Then DOUBLE SUPERKICK! Berto covers, TWO! Berto argues the count but the ref defends it. Berto shoves Je’Von to ELBOW him down! Berto then DUMPS Je’Von down to be under the ropes.
Tag to Angel and Berto sits Je’Von up on the apron. Angel runs to KNEE Je’Von down! Santos joins in with Los Garza as they soak up the heat, and Angel drags Je’Von back in. Angel stands Je’Von up, hoists him to the top rope, then climbs up behind him. Angel CLUBS away on Je’Von, mocks the clapping, and he THROWS Je’Von down. Angel KICKS Je’Von in the arm and Je’Von clutches his hand. Angel drags Je’Von to the ropes, CHOKES him, and the ref reprimands. The ref counts, Angel steps off at 4, and Berto BOOTS Je’Von down. ANgel clamps onto Je’Von with an armlock and chinbar but Je’Von reaches for Fenix.
Angel keeps hold of Je’Von but Je’Von fires hands! SmackDown returns to single picture as Je’Von dodges the lariat, leaps, but Angel catches him! Angel puts Je’Von in a corner and through ropes. Angel pulls an arm and leg against the ropes, but stops as the ref counts. Angel runs to KNEE Je’Von in the ribs! Je’Von slumps to the apron, and Angel sucker punches Fenix! Angel goes back for Je’Von but Je’Von fires body shots! Angel blocks a kick, slips around and Gory Especials! Angel walks over, tags Berto, and Berto slingshots, GARZA ESPECIAL! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up for Je’Von but Berto clamps onto him with a chinlock.
Je’Von endures, even as Berto traps an arm. Je’Von fights up, pries the hold open, and he arm-drags Berto! Je’Von leaps but Berto grabs a leg! Ethan laughs from commentary, but Je’Von kicks free to SUPERKICK! Both men are down, Je’Von and Berto crawl, hot tags to Angel and Fenix! The fans fire up as Fenix rallies on Angel with forearms! Fenix then dodges a shot to springboard and FLYING ARM-DRAG, to a DOUBLE STOMP! Fenix fires off KICKS on Berto, then fires up with Knoxville! Fenix uses Berto to jump up and RANA Angel! Fenix then goes corner to corner to JUMP SOBAT! Fenix fires hands, shoves Angel aside, then goes up.
Fenix springboards to QUEBRADA! Cover, Berto breaks it! Berto whips Fenix, Fenix goes Spider-Man, and Je’Von tags in! Fenix says HASTA LA VISTA, BABY! Angel is up, he pops Fenix up to KICK him! But Je’Von springboards to FLYING LARIAT! The fans fire up, Berto springboards to FLYING CHUCK! All four men are down and the fans fire up again! “This is Awesome!” as Angel and Je’Von crawl. Angel CHOPS Je’Von, Je’Von CHOPS back, and the fans “WOO~!” Angel CHOPS again, so Je’Von CHOPS again! Angel fires a forearm, Je’Von fires back, and they go around with forearm after forearm! The fans fire up, Angel CHOPS, a
nd Je’Von SUPER PUNCHES!
Je’Von runs, BOUNCY- NO, Angel makes it a SIT OUT POWERBOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Ethan is surprised and the fans rally up. Angel hoists Je’Von up top, tags Berto in, and they hoist Je’Von up even higher! But Fenix SHORYUKENS Angel down! Je’Von fires hands on Berto and SHOVES him down! Fenix climbs up to join Je’Von now, and ADIOS AMIGO DOUBLE STOMPS for Angel! Je’Von adjusts, to SUPER DUPER SWANTON onto Los Garza! Ethan says don’t get closer, keep this in the ring! He taunts both his challengers, Fenix and Je’Von stand down to put Los Garza in the ring. The fans rally up, but then Ethan CLOBBERS Fenix & Je’Von!
Ethan TOSSES Fenix over the desk! But Je’Von SUPERKICKS Ethan down! The fans fire up, Je’Von hurries in, and he dodges Angel! But Berto rolls Je’Von up, TWO!! Je’Von dodges Berto, rebound and RED DOT!! Berto is down, Angel gets up, but Je’Von DECKS him! Je’Von goes up, up, but Santos distracts the ref! Ethan SHOVES Je’Von down! The fans boo but Berto tags Angel! Los Garza hoists Je’Von up for M T Y!! Cover, Los Garza win!
Winners: Los Garza, by pinfall
All Ego grins as he screws over two of his three challengers, and now Legado is rolling towards Worlds Collide. But will these rudos get everything they deserve in LA?
The Wyatts speak.
“We won’t stop. Not until we get what’s owed.” A simple yet ominous threat, are the tag titles only the beginning?
Zelina Vega VS Alba Fyre w/ The Green Administration!
La Muneca held onto the WWE Women’s US Championship by smacking The Hot Mess in the face with a foot, and obviously Chelsea is not happy with it. But will Alba get payback on behalf of her fearless leader? Or will things only get uglier for the Green Regime?
The bell rings and Piper distracts Zelina so Alba can CLOBBER her! Alba fires off hands, then bumps Zelina off buckles. Alba bumps Zelina off more buckles, then more buckles! And then the fourth corner! Chelsea says Zelina should’ve never messed with her! Alba fireman’s carries but Zelina fights free. Zelina KICKS Alba, KICKS again, then KICKS, but Alba CLUBS Zelina. Alba whips, scoops, and- NO, Zelina swings through to RANA! Cover, ONE! Zelina headlocks but Alba fights up and lifts Zelina. Zelina holds on but Alba powers up and out to RUN Zelina over! The fans boo but Chelsea cheers as Alba stalks Zelina.
Alba ROCKS Zelina, whips her to ropes, but Zelina wheelbarrows and arm-drags! Zelina then runs up on Alba in the corner and rains down fists! Alba shoves Zelina away at three, but Zelina comes right back to rain down more shots! Alba stops Zelina at four now, but Zelina wants another go! Alba stops Zelina at four again, and RAMS her into the corner! The fans boo but Alba grins. Zelina BOOTS Alba, goes up, and FLYING RANAS! Alba tumbles out, Piper helps her up, and Zelina goes to the apron. Alba trips Zelina up, spins and ROCKS Zelina, then gets her up. Gory Especial, but Zelina flips through to arm-drag Alba onto ropes!
The fans fire up as Zelina dials up, but Chelsea is on the apron! The ref argues with Chelsea while Zelina redials, but Piper trips her up! The fans boo but Alba SUPERKICKS Zelina! Alba salutes to Chelsea, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Alba stands on Zelina’s hair while pulling Zelina’s arms! The ref reprimands, Alba steps off, and she drags Zelina up to suplex for the GOURD BUSTER! Cover, TWO! Zelina stays in this and Chelsea argues with the ref. The ref says the count is fair, so Alba clamps onto Zelina with a COBRA CLUTCH! Zelina endures, the fans rally, and Zelina fights up. Zelina fires body shots, Alba ripcords and wrenches to SUPERKICK! Zelina rebounds to SHINING WIZARD! Both women fall and the fans fire up! Piper coaches Zelina, the fans rally up, and both women rise up. Alba is on Zelina and brings her to a corner, but Zelina buckle bumps Alba first!
The fans rally as Alba stalks Zelina, but Zelina bumps her off buckles again! Alba tries again, but Zelina ELBOWS Alba away. Then BOOTS her away! Zelina fires forearms on Alba, backs her down, then whips. Alba reverses but Zelina dodges to LARIAT! The fans fire up as Zelina LARIATS again! Zelina blocks a kick, ELBOWS Alba, but Alba blocks the saido. But Zelina keeps Alba from running, SNAP SAIDO! The fans rally for Zelina as she runs corner to corner, METEORA! Zelina pushes Alba out and goes up top! The fans cheer for some Latina Heat, and METEORA! Cover, TWO! Alba survives and Chelsea is relieved.
Zelina grows frustrated, but she goes back for Alba. Zelina reels Alba in, suplexes, but Alba blocks! Alba knees low, suplexes, but Zelina hits STUN DOG MILLIONAIRE! Alba is down, Zelina goes up, MOONSAULT FLOPS! Alba goes up now, and she SWANTON BOMBS! Cover, TWO!?! Zelina survives and shocks Alba! Chelsea is upset again but Alba hurries to bring Zelina up. Alba KICKS Zelina out, and now Chelsea takes off her face mask?! She tells Piper to stand Zelina up! Piper does as told, and Chelsea takes a swing, but Zelina ducks! The face mask SMACKS Piper!! Chelsea is shocked, then furious, and then she chases after Zelina!
Zelina slips into the ring, Chelsea gets on the apron, but Zelina sends Alba at her! They almost collide, and then Zelina rolls Alba up! Zelina hops on, CODE RED!! Cover, Zelina wins!!
Winner: Zelina Vega, by pinfall
Chelsea tried so hard to screw Zelina over that she just screwed up her own team! Zelina survives again, will no one take down the Vega Administration?
The Miz pep talks Carmelo Hayes.
Melo looks good, and he just has to follow the plan. If Melo follows that plan, with no mistakes, they will win. Melo says he knows what he’s doing. Miz asks if he really does. Because Miz has taken Black Mass after Black Mass, sacrificing himself for Melo. Does Melo understand? Miz gave up this chance at MITB for Melo! Miz has already done it twice! If Melo wins this match tonight, Miz will guide Melo to make sure “we are Mr. MITB.” Wait, we? Miz says, “Who do you think got you in this position?” Melo says Melo did. Melo appreciates everything Miz has done for him, from sacrificing to taking hits for him, and helping him win the Andre the Giant Battle Royal.
But nobody told Miz to do that. Melo will run the play exactly as Miz designed it, but what brought Melo to the dance is Melo’s talent. Melo goes out there and does it better than anybody else. Melo puts up 40 points on a bad day, because he is H1M. And Miz just needs to let Melo be H1M. They good? Miz nods, and Melo says okay, let’s do the thing. They are Melo Don’t Miz and they are Awes-H1M. Miz still nods, but he doesn’t seem genuinely happy. Will Miz let Melo be Melo? Even if that means letting H1M fail?
Giulia speaks.
“Throughout my entire career, even back when I started in Japan, I had one goal… It’s not to be ‘the best.’ Everyone says that. It’s hollow and empty. My goal is to be indisputable. You can love me or hate me, admiration or disgust, it means nothing. But I’m impossible to deny. My opponent doesn’t matter, because I only view them as an opportunity to build my legacy. Evidence you cannot refute. SmackDown, you will see. I will hit harder, move faster, think sharper, and conquer everything, just like I’ve always done. The question isn’t, ‘Who’s going to let me?” It’s, ‘Who’s going to stop me?'” She adds in Japanese, “If you can stop it, stop it.”
Will SmackDown and all of the WWE soon succumb to The Beautiful Madness?
Zelina returns backstage.
She refreshes for a second, but Giulia is there! And Giulia says she sees Zelina, but she also sees that title more. Zelina scoffs and leaves. Could Giulia be aiming for everything once she becomes Ms. Money in the Bank?
Damian Priest is here!
Knoxville cheers as The Archer of Infamy heads to the ring, victorious from Saturday Night’s Main Event and that brutal Steel Cage match. Priest grabs a mic to tell Tennessee, “Ever since I beat Drew on Saturday, it’s like I’m breathing in fresh air. Y’know, there was a time when I lived on the street, if we were beefing with another street, that war could go for years. But in WWE, you have a beef with somebody, you have a match and it’s over. But with Drew and I, we went well over a year, and that’s not normal. But we took that beef into a cage. Now, I can feel it, you can se it on my face, we went to war.
“At the end of this war, at Saturday Night’s Main Event, I gave him a Con-Chair-To, I walked out the door, and I put his ass in the past.” The fans cheer that. Priest says now he knows Drew is somewhere recovering from his scrambled brains, but he knows Drew is watching, so this is for Drew. “I still can’t stand yo ass. But the Drew McIntyre that stepped in that cage wasn’t the guy that hides behind his phone on social media. That was the old Drew, the warrior, and I appreciate that.” The fans applaud, and Priest says he won’t ask what is next for himself, he’ll just tell us all. And it is the same thing he wanted when he came to SmackDown: Championships!
The fans cheer, and Priest says this war with Drew cost him an opportunity at being in MITB. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have his eyes on a certain champion. Somebody who he has unfinished business with, and a champion he considers the most badass. The fans know that means Fatu, and he knows they know! Priest calls out Jacob Fatu! Priest respects Fatu. Priest knows where Fatu came from, what Fatu had to live through, how it feels to stand in this ring as a champion. Real talk, Priest is proud of Fatu, he congratulates Fatu, that’s real. But what Priest doesn’t respect is the crew that follows him around.
Wait, check that. What Priest doesn’t respect is the crew Fatu follows around. Priest knows at some point, they will get in this ring, handle business, but that’s for them. As for Fatu’s so-called family, if they wanna get involved, they can catch a fresh one, too. Priest won’t make it just a nickname or moniker, he wants this to be fact! Priest is and forever will be EL CAMPEON! The fans cheer that! But will the Archer soon take aim at the Samoan Werewolf? Well, speaking of, Fatu makes his way out here for tonight’s other Triple Threat Qualifier! Fatu nods to Priest, but if Fatu wins his way into the ladder match, will this showdown have to wait a little longer?
Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match Qualifier Triple Threat: Carmelo Hayes VS Andrade VS Jacob Fatu!
SmackDown returns and El Idolo makes his entrance, followed by H1M. The bell rings and Miz distracts Fatu and Melo attacks! Fatu ELBOWS Melo away, Andrade is on Melo with forearms, and then Fatu adds a LARIAT! Fatu looms mover Melo but then turns to stare down Andrade. The fans rally as these two step up. Andrade fires forearms but Fatu SHOVES him to a corner. Fatu runs up, Andrade dodges then whips. Fatu reverses, Andrade goes up and out to then ROCK Fatu! Andrade goes up, up, and CROSSBODIES! Cover, ONE! Melo CLUBS Andrade, TOSSES him out, and then CLUBS away on Fatu!
Miz says that’s the way! Melo HAMMERS and CHOPS, then whips, but Fatu blocks! Fatu whips Melo, Melo springboards, but into an UPPERCUT! The fans fire up and Fatu sees Melo go outside. Fatu builds speed, but Miz trips him up! The fans boo, the ref reprimands, but Fatu drags Miz into the ring! Melo goes to roll Fatu up but Fatu stays up! Fatu YANKS Melo up, scoops, but Melo slips free! Melo SUPERKICKS and Miz DUMPS Fatu out! The fans boo but Melo builds speed, only for Andrade to LARIAT! The fans cheer, and now Miz sees he is in trouble. Fatu snarls, but Andrade DIVES, into a HAYMAKER!
Fatu then SUPERKICKS Miz! Fatu THROWS Miz into barriers! The fans fire up and Fatu grins. Fatu runs in, HIP ATTACK against the barriers! The Samoan Werewolf has dominated three men at once and the fans fire up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Miz sputters and Fatu leaves him behind to go around the way. Melo is there to kick Fatu, RAM Fatu, but Fatu blocks another whip! Fatu ROCKS Melo and Melo staggers away. Fatu stalks Melo, Melo checks on Miz, but Fatu ROCKS Melo! Andrade goes after Fatu now, but Fatu THROWS Andrade into barriers! The fans cheer as Fatu lets Andrade go to the ring. Fatu brings Melo up, SMACKS him off the desk, then pushes him down. Fatu clears the desk off, but Melo CLUBS Fatu against the desk! Melo storms into the ring, brings Andrade up, but Andrade RAMS Melo into the corner! Andrade RAMS Melo, CHOPS Melo, then stalks Melo.
Andrade whips Melo, Melo reverses and Andrade hits buckles hard! Melo CHOPS Andrade down! Melo brings Andrade up, soaks up some heat, then makes it Latino Heat. But Andrade blocks the suplex to suplex Melo! Andrade hangs Melo out to dry, and Melo flops to the apron. Fatu is back but Andrade fires forearms first! Andrade whips, Fatu reverses, and Fatu BODY CHECKS Andrade! Fatu geeks out and the fans are with him while he stalks Andrade. Fatu drags Andrade up to HEADBUTT him into the corner. Fatu shoves Melo off the apron, then he HEADBUTTS Andrade again. Andrade sputters but Fatu is all fired up.
Fatu CHOPS Andrade, UPPERCUTS, and HEADBUTTS him again! Andrade CHOPS in return! SmackDown returns to single picture and Andrade CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOPS! Fatu UPPERCUTS and Andrade falls back! Melo stomps Andrade in the corner, then tells Fatu to come on in. Fatu runs up, but Andrade gets away! Hip attack hits buckles! Melo ENZIGIRIS Fatu, Andrade runs to dodge Melo and FLYING FOREARM! The fans fire up as Andrade kips up! Andrade has targets in the corners, and he rallies the fans with “SI! SI! SI!” CIEN KNEES for Fatu! CIEN- NO, Melo tilt-o-whirls and LA MYSTICA! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally, Melo runs to stomp away on Fatu, then he brings Andrade up. Fatu stands to CLOBBER Melo! Andrade SUPERKICKS Fatu! The fans rally, Melo brings Andrade up and springboards, but Andrade stops him at the ropes! SECOND ROPE SPANISH FLY! But Fatu SENTONS Andrade! The fans fire up as Fatu SENTONS Melo! Fatu drags Melo to a drop zone, then goes to the corner! The fans rally for Fatu as he goes up, up, but Andrade YANKS him down! Andrade goes up top, MOONSAULT DOUBLE!! Cover, Melo breaks it! The fans rally while all three are down! “This is Awesome!” as the three stir.
Melo brings Fatu and Andrade around, and he fires forearms on each of them. Andrade fires back on Melo, then Fatu UPPERCUTS! Andrade ROCKS Fatu, but Fatu UPPERCUTS Andrade! The fans rally as the three rise, and Melo springboards! DOUBLE FADE AWAY DDT!! Cover on Andrade, Fatu breaks it! Melo and Fatu stare down, and they run up! Melo dodges to hit the FIRST 48! Andrade adds a POISON-RANA! Melo slips around Andrade to KNEE and suplex, CUTTER! Cover, TWO!! Andrade survives and Melo grows frustrated. The fans rally for Fatu while Melo shakes his hands out. Andrade is on the apron but Melo rises.
Melo brings Andrade up but Andrade trips Melo! They go out to brawl, and Melo SUPERKICKS Andrade down! But Fatu SUPERKICKS Melo! The fans fire up for Fatu as he lines up a shot. Fatu gets the fans even more fired up, then he geeks out! Fatu runs in the full length, but Andrade & Melo move! HIP ATTACK through barriers!! The fans go nuts as Fatu crashes into the timekeeper’s area! Fatu sputters as SmackDown goes back to picture in picture.
Fatu stirs while Andrade and Melo go to the ring. They roll in, Melo grabs at Andrade and vice-versa. Melo fires a forearm, then goes back outside. Andrade goes to the opposite end while Melo looks under the ring. Melo makes Knoxville happy by bringing out a table! But then Melo makes them mad by dropping it! Melo goes after Andrade but Andrade ROCKS him first! Andrade brings out a chair! Andrade aims, but Melo dropkicks the legs out! Andrade crawls, Melo shakes his head, and he grabs the chair now. Melo aims, but Andrade kicks Melo low! Andrade and Melo go into the ring, and Andrade puts Melo in a drop zone.
Andrade goes up the corner, but Melo trips him up! Andrade is stuck up top and Melo hits the SLINGSHOT PLEX! Melo flexes, then decides to step through on the legs! Andrade cradles that, TWO! Melo and Andrade stand, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Both men fall and the fans look for Fatu. SmackDown returns to single picture as the fans rally, Melo and Andrade sit up, and Melo CHOPS! Andrade ROCKS Melo, then rolls away. Melo hurries to clamp onto Andrade with a facelock, but Andrade RAMS him into a corner! Andrade puts Melo up top but Melo fires forearms. Andrade drops back, Melo aims, but Andrade GAMANGIRIS!
The fans still want tables but Andrade climbs up to get Melo. They’re on the very top, but Fatu is back! Fatu makes the SUPER SPANISH FLY part ROCKER LAUNCHER!! The fans are thunderous as Fatu goes up now! SWANTON BOMB onto Melo! Cover, Andrade breaks it!! The fans rally up again and still want tables. Fatu runs at Andrade to SPLASH! Then Fatu runs at Melo, but Melo BOOTS him! Melo runs up, but into a pop-up! Melo fights the Samoan Drop, and Andrade adds the SHADOW ELBOW! But Melo makes it a ghost pin! Andrade adds a stack, TWO!!! Fatu survives the double cover, but here come Solo & JC!
The fans boo as Solo is here to coach Fatu up. Melo and Andrade trade forearms, then Melo dodges to springboard, FLYING LARIAT! Cover, Fatu breaks it! Fatu snarls, drags Melo up, and he HEADBUTTS Melo! Fatu finally notices Solo & JC, but Fatu puts Melo up top. Fatu CHOPS Melo, then he fireman’s carries Andrade. Fatu adds Melo to this, but Melo slips free. SAMOAN DROP for Andrade, and then Fatu goes to the corner. Solo says Fatu’s got this now! BEST MOONSAULT EVER FLOPS and Melo hits NOTHING BUT NET!! Cover, ANDRADE BREAKS IT! Andrade underhooks Melo, THE MESS- NO, Melo RANAS through! Cover, TWO!!
Andrade has a cover, TWO! Melo has a cover, TWO! Andrade has it, TWO! Both men stand, SHADOW ELBOW! FIRST 48!! SHADOW ELBOW AGAIN!! All three men are down and the fans are thunderous! Fatu crawls, Melo rolls to a corner, and Andrade stirs. Fatu rises, he brings Andrade up, IMPALER DDT! Then Fatu has Melo to RAM him into a corner. Fatu runs and HIP ATTACKS Melo! Andrade is up, Fatu hits him with another IMPALER DDT! Fatu puts Andrade in the drop zone, and he hits the BEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Solo says yeah, do that again! The fans boo but Fatu glares at Solo. JC says do what Solo is saying, Fatu!
But wait! Jimmy YANKS JC down, and SUPERKICKS him! The fans fire up, and then Melo RAMS Fatu into Solo! Then FIRST 48! But Andrade rolls Melo into THE MESSAGE!! Cover, ANDRADE WINS!!
Winner: Andrade, by pinfall (advances to Money in the Bank)
Solo just screwed things up for Fatu! Solo does his best to keep the peace between Fatu and JC, but the point is: Andrade is headed to Los Angeles! Will he make this El Idolo in the Bank?
Backstage interview with LA Knight.
Byron Saxton segues from congratulating Andrade for qualifying to welcoming in someone who already has qualified, but The Mega Star says, “My gawd. What is it with punching tickets around here? Everybody talks about punching tickets. WWE Instagram, punched tickets. Commentary, punched tickets. You’re talking about punched tickets. I guess I punched my ticket to MITB, it’s only eight days away. A few other guys who punched tickets, who are they? You got Andrade, you got Penta, you got what’s his name, Seth Rollins. You got Solo Sikoa! They’re all in it! They all punched their tickets!
“And everybody’s gonna be climbing that ladder, trying to get up, put everything on the line that they can. Now, if this was a one-on-one match, I’d go ahead and call my shot, and I’d say I’m gonna run up there, grab the case, and cash it in. But you gotta understand, this is my third year in a row, so I understand what this is. You can call me the vet in this match. Some people say maybe that Seth is the vet in this, but they would be wrong. For three years in a row now, you’re talking about the most robust and the most recent experience, YEAH. And what that means is now it’s anybody’s game. Anybody can come out with it, and I understand that.
“But with or without the case, what you need to understand is that the WWE title, the world title, they’re all in my future. With the way I’ve been running, at this point, they should be in my past, maybe even my present. Why don’tcha go ahead and punch that ticket? While we’re talking about-” Knight stops himself when he spots someone walking in. It’s Aleister Black! And Aleister says that win was supposed to be his. But he tells Knight, “You’re welcome, though.” The Dark Father lets the Mega Star shine, if only for now. Will LA win big in LA when we finally reach MITB?
Fatu and Solo regroup backstage.
Solo wants Fatu to listen. He was just trying to help. Fatu tells Solo to listen. For the last time, Fatu does not need his help! Fatu storms off, JC steps in, but Solo has nothing else to say. Is the Samoan Werewolf going to break away from this dysfunctional “family?”
Cody Rhodes is here!
Knoxville fires up and sings along, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, high-fives fans along the ramp and the front row, and even signs autographs. Cody goes to the ring, grabs a mic, and he hears the fans chant his name. Cody fires the fans up more, then hears them sing, “Cody! Cody Rhooodes~! Cody! Cody Rhooodes~!” Cody says, “So, Knoxville! Whaddya wanna talk about?” The fans cheer, and Cody says, “I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that we could talk about the record crowd here this evening!” The fans cheer that, too! Cody says he loves them, too, thank you very much.
Cody says they could also talk about WrestleMania 41. The fans boo, but Cody says after WrestleMania 41, he went home, he drowned his sorrows, might’ve touched the “Tennessee Cough Syrup” a little bit, and he had a moment of doubt. He reached out to a friend. A friend who helps him prepare to wonderful audiences like this one here, or speaking to everyone at home. Cody asked him, “Was I a good champion?” The fans cheer for that, but Cody says the friend told him wasn’t quite as simple as yes or no.
The friend told him, “With everything that you faced here in the ring in front of all the fans, and with everything that you faced behind the scenes, being pulled in different directions, the waters that you had to navigate that no champion has ever had to navigate, yes, I feel that you were a good champion.” Cody says he felt good hearing that, it turned into a hopeful moment, the silver lining on a dark cloud. Cody looked back on his whole year. He thought about AJ Styles faking retirement to get the drop on him. Cody thought about his friend, Kevin Owens, sucker punching him against his bus while Cody’s family slept inside.
Cody thought about his boss, Triple H, who pushed Cody to the limit, and sees something in Cody that Cody doesn’t even see in himself. Cody even thought about The Final Boss, how he asked Cody for his soul, and the entire world wondering what that meant. As preposterous as that sounded, The Rock was 100% serious. No matter how many times Cody said no, the offer still stands. And Cody also thought about John Cena. The fans initially boo, but the “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” starts up. Cody takes a moment, and then he says, “I thought about John Cena doing exactly what he said he was going to do. He forced me to make a choice, and I hesitated.
“I don’t know if John Cena is going to ‘ruin’ professional wrestling. But if he does, then I’m partially to blame. Now, I know, I’d love to say this to John Cena’s face. Not sure if he’s going to come out here right now, but if you are listening, if you are listening, Champ, I need you to know that I will never hesitate with you again!” The fans cheer that, and Cody says no matter how much Cena will tout the amount of days he has left, how much Cena will talk about what remains before he absconds with the WWE Championship and leaves all of us forever, that is NOT Cena’s expiration date! That is on the other side of Cody’s corneas, and it will burn Cena’s ass up!
The fans fire up for that, and Cody calms it down. Cody apologizes for that. This is his first night back on SmackDown, he is getting worked up. He thought so much about what he could do, what he could do for the fans. Hell, how about a surprise? The fans already “YEET! YEET! YEET!” so Cody says they’re hungry for it. Let’s yeet. Well, hold on, that’d be a very big surprise. That’d be the biggest surprise. That’d be Cody’s partner riding into battle for MITB, and hell YES he is here! Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for the World Heavyweight Champion, MAIN EVENT JEY USO! The fans go wild as Jey makes his way in from the pavilion!
The fans sing along with Day One Ish and bounce for that YEET! Jey makes his way down through the crowd to ringside, one verse at a time, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Jey joins Cody in the ring now, mic in hand. Cody and Jey hear the fans want an encore, so we get even more YEET! But then John Cena makes his entrance to ruin the fun! The fans sing “JOHN CENA SUUUCKS~!” even though he wears that University of Tennessee orange and white. Cena goes to the ring, towel draped over his head, then grabs a mic before he joins Cody and Jey in the ring. Cena hears the fans boo, and he says, “I’m upset, too. If it isn’t professional wrestling’s biggest wannabes!” Cena tells Cody he is nothing more than a Cena Wannabe, and that Jey is nothing more than a Cena Wannabe.
The fans boo but Cena says they both wanna be Cena so bad, it makes him sick! Cody wants Cena’s fame, Jey wants Cena’s money, but they will get neither because Cody is too desperate and Jey is too lazy! There is only ONE other human being in the WWE who embodies hustle, loyalty and respect, and he’s got the fortune, fame and followers to back that up! Surprise, losers! Cena’s partner is here, too! The fans boo already, because “EY YO~!” Logan Paul IS here! The Maverick swaggers his way out, and Cena gives him a proper introduction. “Oh, you mad? You’re mad because Logan Paul does WWE better than any professional wrestler?”
Cena says Logan doesn’t need to pay his dues, because he is paying Jey’s mortgage! Everybody in this building did NOT come to see Jey! They came to see John Cena and Logan Paul! Logan asks, “What the hell you crying about, Knoxville? Look! I could walk on water, and y’all would still find a way to tell me it’s because I can’t swim! John Cena speaks the language of Logan Paul, and that is the truth! The truth! It is right in front of you! You deny it all you want, but look around, you stupid, stupid, simple Tennessee people! This is a moment in history! All of you get to witness the moment that John Cena stood side-by-side in the ring with Logan Paul.
“And look, all of you will live long, pathetic, miserable lives. But at least you will get to say that you saw that.” The fans tell Logan to STFU, and Cena tells Logan to ignore it. Logan says yeah, yeah, they’re so ungrateful. They don’t know what’s good for them. There is one problem, though. This does seem too perfect. The problem is… Logan should be standing next to THE WWE Champion as THE World Heavyweight Champion! Logan should’ve been the one to leave Saturday Night’s Main Event with that title around his waist. But look at him, Jey. Jey got lucky. Jey got lucky! He knows it, Logan knows, it, the fans know it, CODY knows it!
Jey needed Cody to save him! When Cody interfered with the match cuz these two cheaters can’t do a single thing in this business without it being handed to them! “These two nepo babies were born on third, thinking they hit a triple.” Logan points to himself and says, “Self-made man!” He points to Cena and says, “Self-made man!” Five years ago, nobody every would’ve believed Logan Paul would be a WWE superstar. And they certainly never ever would’ve believed that he’d be teaming with the Greatest Of All Time! But look at Logan now. He’s not just a superstar, he is THE superstar! His time is now! Cena told us that his time is almost up!
Cena is the Last Real Champion, Logan is the inevitable face of the WWE! So Jey, Cody, at MITB, if you want some, come get some. Jey tells Logan they don’t gotta wait! They can handle this right now! UH UH, YEET!! The mics drop, Cena and Logan talk this out, and Logan wants to throw hands while Cena wants to leave. Cody asks what they’re arguing about. They gonna go to the back so Logan can polish Cena’s Peacemaker? Now it’s a fight! The fans fire up as the hands are flying! Logan TOSSES Jey, Cena picks Cody up! Cody slips free, Jey is back to SUPERKICK! Cody hits the DISASTER KICK! Cena bails out, Jey PLANCHAS out onto him!
Logan goes to the apron, slingshot and- NO, Cody dodges the “Snapshot” Lariat and Jey SUPERKICKS Logan! Then Jey sets Logan up for the CODE D!! The fans fire up as Cody picks up the WWE Championship! Will Cody and Jey make it through Logan and Cena to then clear a path for the American Nightmare’s redemption? Or will Cena & Logan ruin wrestling together?
My Thoughts:
A very good SmackDown, but maybe with some wheel-spinning. As fun as Chelsea Green continues to be, can’t we move on from her and Zelina? Or are we about to do that with tonight’s win over Alba and then Giulia confronting her? Ironically, that seems to give away Giulia isn’t winning MITB. Giulia had a good promo video right before but they undercut it by giving us that confrontation. That said, Giulia deserves to be all the champions, but I suppose starting with the Women’s US Championship would be a good route. Very good promo from Bianca and Naomi to not just have Bianca’s homecoming, but to keep the feud between them alive.
The Women’s Triple Threat had a slow start but it turned out to be a very good match. Great win for Naomi, and good promo from her, Tiffany and Alexa to tease potential MITB winners. Great stuff in the tag match to build Worlds Collide just a touch. We only got one moment of Berto being passive aggressive towards Santos, and then Ethan Page screwing the Faces over, but that was still enough for the North American Championship. Of course, it depends on how many fans watch not just Raw and SmackDown but also NXT so that the fans already understand the story. But as someone who does, I do appreciate they’re bringing NXT story onto SmackDown.
Good promo from Priest to give some shoot respect to Drew and Fatu, but Priest wanting after the US title kinda gave away what was happening with the Men’s Triple Threat. It was a great Triple Threat, but of course Solo & JC cost Fatu. That team is just one moment away from breaking up, and it might be at MITB when Solo just expects Fatu to help him win the briefcase and Fatu refuses. And Fatu VS Priest will still be awesome whenever it happens. Good promo from Knight, and a good bit from Aleister with him, which I suppose means that’s the next feud for them. Was kinda hoping for Aleister VS Nakamura but that really depends if Nakamura is sticking with WWE or going home to Japan via Pro-Wrestling NOAH as rumored.
R-Truth relapsing to talking to Lil’ Jimmy is certainly a choice. I kinda wish he’d keep up the “Ron Cena” stuff, or they’d let Jeff Cobb do his own John Cena bit from NJPW, but I guess some things in WWE still won’t change. And closing with a big promo segment was also certainly a choice. Cody still did a good job, and nice surprise to have Jey show up. Not sure they needed to take a commercial break for Jey’s entrance, especially when they were obviously going to let Jey do his YEET encore. And Cena really must be brainwashed to put Logan over as if Logan’s on par with peak Cena. But naturally a brawl happened and the Faces stood tall.
Don’t count this as go-home math yet, they could easily revisit this on Raw and even next week on SmackDown. Even then, I still feel like Jey and Cody should win at MITB to properly set up Cody VS Cena 2 at SummerSlam. Raw on June 9th is still the move for the World Heavyweight Championship, but there’s also Saturday Night’s Main Event in July, who knows if Jey makes it to SummerSlam as champion.
My Score: 8.7/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 5.29.25
Stuff happens, maybe it doesn’t, Dreamer and Delirious can’t book.

Well Trick Willie is the new TNA champ and this is the first iMPACT since his win…so let’s just hear him talk about it.
"TNA turned into TRICK-NA. Lets talk about it"@_trickwilliams #WWENXT
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/GrBQpdX5g5 pic.twitter.com/StU4pmi3oy
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 30, 2025
Ratings:
- The Rascalz vs Fir$t Cla$$ vs Laredo vs The System: Rascalz win via Meteora – ***
- Raj Singh vs Mustafa Ali: Ali wins via…No Shit – Squash Garbage
- ASH by Elegance vs Lei Ying Lee: Lei wins via Spinning TKO – ** 3/4
- Mance Warner w/SDL vs Jobber: Mance wins via Hit the Pay Winda – Squash
- Santino Marella & Arianna Grace vs Robert Stone & Victoria Crawford w/Tessa: Team Robbie wins via shenanigans – **
- International Championship: Steve Maclin (c) vs Matt Cardona: Maclin retains via KIA – ***
Results:
The Rascalz vs Fir$t Cla$$ vs Laredo vs The System
Octagon got jumped by The System earlier so Laredo is fighting alone. Another backstage jumping is getting a little dumb.
Laredo and Trey start. Typical Indie start with Simultaneous awful Dropkick spot and bad counters, AJ blind tag runs the smaller guys over, tags out to KC and the Rascalz instantly get the moment. KC is rocked, tags in Laredo and Laredo takes out the System before Lish gets on the apron and grabs Laredo. The referee kicks out Lish and Rehwoldt on commentary points out it’s a No DQ match so that’s dumb.
KC gets tossed at AJ, he catches him, Rascalz Dive and do their taunt as we go to commercial. We come back, Tennessee Whiskey into a KC tag in for the near fall on Laredo. Corner combo, Snapmare into Flip Forward Neck Breaker, KC is on a roll. AJ tags Laredo and starts talking crap to KC, they swerve and go Finger Poke of Doom, but it’s not a legal pin. Suddenly tornado attacks, System and Rascalz go for broke, AJ hits the Senton to break the eventual pin, Laredo counters AJ’s Chokeslam attempt. Trey clears out The System, Wentz sends himself and KC over and out, Laredo with a Corkscrew Moonsault, which looked cool but it’s the pile of morons waiting to get hit spot.
AJ hits the Down Payment on Laredo, but Trey blind tagged AJ. Meteora on AJ, Trey pins Laredo and Rascalz win.
Raj Singh vs Mustafa Ali
Raj looks like shit in the gear he came down in…and he wrestles equivalently. I would rather anyone else comeback…give me Anarquia.
Ali murders Raj, Instant Dropkick, Rolling Neckbreaker, Corkscrew Standing Moonsault, it’s not close. Raj tries to counter things but Ali Bellclap, a little Duck the left, connect the right. Raj even does a terrible looking Punch Combo, he’s in bad shape, a bad looking Ushigoroshi, Raj with a sloppy looking something, 450 ends it.
Fire Raj as quickly as you brought him back. You don’t need a comedically pathetic job guy when the roster is like 4 guys getting pushed and everyone else sucks. Stop being stupid. Ali still hates women too.
This Injury Report is the dumbest segment in the history of wrestling. Stop treating fake shit as “serious business”.
ASH by Elegance vs Lei Ying Lee
ASH mocks karate stuff, Lei throws a few Rising Crane kicks as ASH bails and then things slow down a little. But a Pump Kick, Sliding Kick and Low Dropkick cause ASH to cower and claim her tooth broke. It’s a bait to pull Lei into the turnbuckles and them get in a few stomps. Ash keeps Lei in the corner, Suplexes her ankles into the buckles and then Ash throws a few Booty Shots/Hit Attacks then starts a grounded stretch, Lei Headscissors her down, still sells the hips and ankles, but dodges and fires, combination strikes into the 10 Count Down Strikes. T-bone Suplex, into the pinfall, for only two.
Cheapshot into Running Meteora from ASH for two. Ash goes for the Miz Yes Kicks and Lei No Sells and asks for more. Gorgeous Capture Suplex into Thunder Struck and TKO with flair. My baby has a better finish now! Yay!
Mance Warner w/SDL vs Jobber
Hannifan cursing and being pissed at Trick for not even showing but is more entertaining than a squash match. Not that Mance’s offense is bad, but 2 out of 3 job matches is stupid.
.@milanmiracle and @AriannaGraceWWE make history as the first father/daughter tag team in TNA!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/GrBQpdX5g5 pic.twitter.com/3s8OhtYFPv
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 30, 2025
Santino Marella & Arianna Grace vs Robert Stone & Victoria Crawford w/Tessa
Marella tries to tie up with Robbie, but he bails and tags out to Victoria so Arianna comes in and aside from Alicia Fox’s silliness, the tie up was decent with Arianna and Victoria. Tessa interferes and the Referee throws her out. Victoria comes back in and aside from a slight miscommunication with how Arianna does her punches, Alicia Fox is making her look…pretty good. Transition moves, okay brawling and Arianna looks amazing in her outfit.
Rob and Santino distract the referee and Victoria hits a Figure Four into her Northern Lights Suplex, only for 2. Arianna finally Back Body Drop to find the tag, Santino and Rob, Santino does his split dodge into the Standing Headbutt, Arianna Cross Body onto Victoria. Rob pulls out the ref, then shoves the ref into Santino, Santino into the steps and Arianna attack but Alicia and Lish, the fix is in, Arianna eats the pin.
International Championship: Steve Maclin (c) vs Matt Cardona
A few quick brawl moves, Shoulder Tackles, Strikes, Back Breakers, Cardona does get dumped out and eats a SCUD. Maclin bounces Cardona’s face off the apron and hits an Elbow off the apron to keep Cardona reeling, but a dodged tackle sends Maclin into the steps. Cardona tries to Piledriver Maclin on the ramp, but Back Drop counter, into commercial.
Formulaic commercial etiquette of Cardona still in control, throws Maclin into the ropes, Diving Shoulder Tackle lays both dudes out and they get up by 8. Fighting Spirit spot, Cardona hits ropes and gets hit by Maclin twice, Thesz Press, Ground and Pound, Back Elbow and Olympic Slam has Maclin rolling. Splash into Lariat for two. Maclin has been all gas no brakes. Cardona tries to take a few shortcuts that turns into a Straight Jacket Takedown. Cardona to the top, Maclin cuts him off, Superplex spot. 1-2-kick out!
Maclin goes topside for a Jar Headbutt, Cardona hits the ropes so Maclin crashes into the corner, 2 Reboots connect, the third gets caught, counter into Busaiku Knee, Jar Headbutt. In and out, Cardona uses the middle rope for the Low Blow, Killswitch from Cardona but Maclin kicks out. Cardona dodges and shoves Maclin towards the ref, he puts the brakes on, Radio Silence! 1-2-Kick out! Maclin catches a top rope move, Power Bomb, Corner Splash, Tree of Woe, Caught in the Crosshairs, KIA and Maclin retains!
Overall Score: 4.5/10
Boring paint by numbers show, no Trick, System has one move, Robert Stone is a scumbag, too long to introduce new girls, lots of throw away segments and Rosemary sets up YET ANOTHER Monster’s Ball match. These aren’t interesting when there’s one every 3 months. So we can have terrible Monster’s Ball matches quarterly, Barbed Wire Massacre and Clockwork Orange House of Fun…BUT NO LOCKDOWN!?
Go home TNA, you’re drunk.
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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
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
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