Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (9/2/22)
Acknowledge TWO YEARS of the Tribal Chief!
SmackDown is on the eve of Clash at the Castle!
Before WWE travels in Cardiff, SmackDown will ACKNOWLEDGE the two YEARS of Roman Reigns as WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Viking Rules Match: The Viking Raiders VS The New Day; The Viking Raiders win.
- Karrion Kross w/ Scarlett Bordeaux VS Drew Gulak; Kross wins.
- Hit Row VS Maximum Male Models w/ Max & Maxxine Dupri; Hit Row wins.
- Open Challenge: Happy Corbin VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Nakamura wins.
- “Butch” Pete Dunne w/ The Brawling Brutes VS Ludwig Kaiser w/ GUNTHER; Dunne wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Viking Rules Match: The Viking Raiders VS The New Day!
Erik & Ivar have done their best to conquer and bury Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods, but the Power of Positivity never dies! Now, the warship has made land, and anything goes to settle this! Will the raid finally finish off the New Day? Or will Kofi & Woods turn back the invaders and stand tall once again?
Or rather, Kofi & Woods might be fighting this one for Asgard! Kofi is the God of Thunder, Woods is the God of Mischief, but will these brothers strike Erik & Ivar down? The bell rings, the New Day dodge the shield bashes to double mule kick! Kofi brawls with Ivar while Woods is after Erik! Fans fire up as the New Day has the edge! Woods and Kofi both climb up to rain down fists! Fans count all the way to 10, then Kofi & Woods hop down to whip. The Vikings reverses but the New Day do-si-do! Woods ROCKS Erik but Kofi bounces off of Ivar! Ivar rushes in but the New Day dodge to DOUBLE DROPKICK!
Ivar & Erik are in the same corner, and the fans fire up! The New Day turn it up! DOUBLE STAMPEDE STOMPS! They let off to then have Woods whip Kofi, DOUBLE BASEMENT DROPKICK! Fans cheer for “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” while the Vikings bail out. Kofi & Woods build speed to DOUBLE DIVE! Direct hit and fans are all fired up! Woods & Kofi SMACK Ivar off the shields, then again, and again! One of the shields breaks! But Erik swings another! The New Day dodge and Woods KNEES Erik down! Kofi grabs a shield, puts it on Erik’s face, and Woods runs in to DROPKICK it into Erik’s face!
Fans rally up and the New Day go after Ivar. Woods stands on Ivar’s face while Kofi climbs the barriers! Kofi FROG SPLASHES Ivar on the floor! Cover, TWO! Ivar sputters and New Day is in control as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and they’re brawling in the stands! Woods knocks Ivar down, he climbs a barrier, and he CROSSBODIES The Vikings down! Cover on Ivar, TWO! Kofi rushes Erik and KICKS him towards ringside. Fans rally but Erik TOSSES Kofi up and over! Woods CLOBBERS Erik over the barriers! Erik ends up falling on Kofi a bit, and then Ivar RAMS Woods into the barriers! Ivar gets some space, he runs in, and he SPLASHES Woods against the barriers! Cover, TWO!! Woods sputters but survives and fans rally up again, “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” Kofi gets a kendo stick! But Erik kicks him low!
Erik slides Kofi in the ring and he gets the kendo stick for himself! Fans boo but Erik says, “That was the last time, Kofi! It’s payback time!” But Kofi mule kicks back! Kofi has the kendo stick and he SMACKS Erik! And SMACKS him again! Then runs, but Erik dodges! SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Erik snarls and he gets the kendo stick now! He SMACKS Kofi and Kofi writhes. Ivar returns, he gets a kendo stick, and Erik stands Kofi up for Ivar to SMACK him down! Kofi writhes while the Vikings pace around. Fans boo but the Vikings soak up the heat. Ivar runs at Kofi but Kofi dumps him out! Kofi then slips out and SWING KICKS Erik away!
Kofi PENALTY KICKS Ivar down from the apron! Kofi looks under the ring, and he brings out MJOLNIR…’s cousin! Kofi goes up top, aims at Erik, and THUNDER SMASH! It breaks the hammer! Cover, TWO!! Kofi keeps focus and Woods returns to look under the ring. “This is Awesome!” and now there’s a TABLE! Kofi gets another TABLE! They have two tables and the fans are loving this! The New Day brings the tables around but Ivar CLOBBERS both of them! Ivar drags Kofi by his hair and puts him on the bow of the ship! Ace Ten Mao!! Erik then scoops Ivar for a SLAMÂ onto Kofi! But Woods steps in, TORNADO DDT for Erik! Woods covers Erik, TWO!!
Erik’s got a cut on the top of his head that’s starting to bleed, but he’s still moving. Ivar drags Woods up by his hair, but Woods HOTSHOTS Ivar by his war beard! Woods steps in, TORNADO- NO! Ivar powers that away, but Woods ducks, dodges ‘n’ slides to SUPERKICK Ivar to a corner! Woods runs in, into a SEATED SENTON! Erik gets back in and drags Woods up! Woods goes up top, Erik hands Woods off to him, for a SUPER POWERSLAM!! Cover, Kofi DOUBLE STOMPS it apart! All four men are down and fans are loving this while SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns again and Ivar has stacked both tables on top of each other! Erik drags Woods up and Ivar shouts to him, Woods fights back, he ROCKS Erik, DECKS Ivar, and ENZIGURIS Erik! Woods runs to WRECK Ivar with a dropkick! Woods gets back in, dodges Erik, slide sunder, for a ROLLING ELBOW! And a LEG LARIAT! Erik ducks the roundhouse but the SWEEP hits! Then the SENTON! Woods fires up and fans fire up with him! Woods goes out and looks under the ring again. Woods brings out a chair! Woods brings that chair in and he sits it up. He drags Erik up but Erik DECKS him with a right!
Erik grins as he looks at the chair. Erik drags Woods up, whips him to ropes and scoops, but Woods tilt-o-whirls through! Erik avoids hitting the chair but Kofi returns to KICK him! The New Day DOUBLE FACEBUSTER Erik into the chair!! Cover, Ivar SPLASHES it apart! Fans rally while Kofi flounders up. Ivar HEEL KICKS Kofi down! Ivar gets Erik up and Erik drags Kofi up. Ivar goes up the corner, Erik hands Kofi over to him, but Woods TACKLES Erik out of the ring! Kofi fights free but falls to the mat! Ivar stands up and turns around to go to the very top! VIKING MOONSAULT FLOPS!! Kofi goes up, to FROG SPLASH!!
Woods hurries up top, tightrope walk, LIMIT BREAKER!! Cover, Erik KNEES It apart!! Kofi fires off on Erik but Erik runs him at the ropes! Kofi body scissors Erik out of the ring! Kofi and Woods regroup, they see the Vikings are at the ramp, so they build speed to FLY off the ship! Direct hit at the ramp! Double cover, TWO!! Both Vikings survive but the New Day keeps on them with forearms and CHOPS! Erik RAMS Woods into barriers, Ivar RAMS Kofi into other barriers! The Vikings bring Kofi up and they LAWN DART him into the long ship’s dragon! Woods CHUCKS a shield at Ivar! Erik CLOBBERS Woods!
Erik puts Woods on the bow and climbs up after him. Woods mule kicks back! Woods reels Erik in, and he aims for the tables! Erik fights the lift, lifts Woods, but Woods CLUBS Erik down! Woods drags Erik up, HEADBUTTS him, then HEADBUTTS again and again and again! But Ivar CLOBBERS Woods with a shield! Kofi climbs a corner! Kofi LEAPSÂ into a SHIELD BASH!! Kofi falls to the floor and the Vikings have Woods all alone! The Vikings roar, haul Kofi up, DOUBLE POWERBOMBÂ through both tables!! Cover in the wreckage, the Viking Raiders win!
Winners: The Viking Raiders, by pinfall
Woods just suffered Ragnarok, the world-ending cataclysm! Will he and Kofi ever rise again? Or is there only the raid?
SmackDown presents Roman’s Reign, Part 1: The Reign Begins.
Paul Heyman of course narrates, and he says, “It began during unprecedented times. It became an unparalleled run of dominance. On August 30, 2020, Roman Reigns regained the Universal Championship at WWE Payback. For the past two years, over 23 title defenses against 14 world-class superstars, Roman Reigns has smashed all competition and claimed his rightful place at the Head of the Table. Tonight, we celebrate and indeed, we acknowledge the historic two year title reign of the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns.”
Sami Zayn is preparing backstage.
The Usos visit and see him in his suit. Sami knows tonight is a special night, so he got his hair done, he bought a new suit. The guy told Sami this is tribal print. Jey says it’s not. No? You sure? Back up, Sami. Jimmy says it’s close. But this is a big night. Can you believe what Roman’s done? Two YEARS! Hasn’t been done in decades! Tonight is so special, Sami has pictures of Roman’s biggest moments and they’ll be blown up and put on easels. Jey says it’s a Bloodline celebration, though. The Wise Man should be here. True, Sami agrees! But Heyman isn’t, he’s still hurt. So Sami can throw a party but he can’t help against his boy, Kevin Owens?
Sami did the best he can! Jimmy can tell, right? Yeah, Sami’s got this on lock. Let’s roll. Jey heads out, Sami asks Jimmy to vouch for him. Jimmy says, “Yeet.” Sami nods and takes note of that. But will Sami at least do right in Roman’s eyes?
Backstage interview with Shayna Baszler.
Kayla Braxton says The Queen of Spades that she will be challenging Liv Morgan for the SmackDown Women’s Championship in less than 24 hours, but Shayna says she WILL be champion. She will take that title by making Liv suffer. She will tear Liv apart limb by limb, take every join she gets her hands on and crank them and twist them until Liv is begging her- OH, Liv steps in. No matter what Shayna says, Liv is not afraid. At Clash at the Castle, Liv will not tap out. In fact, Liv will be the one to rip Shayna’s arm off. Oh? She’d like to see Liv try. Then #WatchHer. Who walks out of Cardiff with the belt? And who walks out without an arm?
Karrion Kross speaks.
“A moment in time, so many different things. For instance, for Drew McIntyre, he has a moment tonight to fight the humbling he suffered last week. For Roman Reigns, he has a moment tonight to commemorate being champion for two years. And unfortunately for my opponent, Mr. Gulak, he’s gonna have a moment tonight that will haunt him for the rest of his life. Because the timelines are about to change. Tick-tock.” Mr. Doomsday has his first match on SmackDown, after the break!
SmackDown presents Roman’s Reign, Part 2: The Main Event.
“For the past wo years, Roman Reigns has been THE main event. Sixteen times, Roman Reigns has main-evented the biggest shows of the year. From the Royal Rumble to Crown Jewel., From Survivor Series to SummerSlam. To the Grandest Stage of Them All, WrestleMania. Sixteen times against champions, legends and hall of famers. Men like Edge, Big E, Goldberg, John Cena, and Brock Lesnar. And sixteen times, Roman Reigns has emerged victorious. Tonight, we celebrate and we indeed acknowledge the historic two year title reign of Roman Reigns.”
Karrion Kross w/ Scarlett Bordeaux VS Drew Gulak!
Like sands through the hourglass, so are the moments left before the apocalypse comes for the Philly Stretcher. Will Gulak find a way to survive the end? Or will he have no choice but to #FallAndPray?
The bell rings and Kross offers a handshake. Gulak takes it but Kross kicks him in the leg. Kross grins, t hen choke grips Gulak into the corner! The ref counts, Kross lets off, but Gulak throws forearms and CHOPS! Kross just puts Gulak back in the corner. Gulak gets free but Kross eggs him on! Gulak CHOPS, and CHOPS, but Kross just leans into it! Gulak fires off forearms then runs, but into a BOOT! Gulak flounders, Kross runs in at the corner to clothesline! ELBOW! And ROLLING ELBOW! Kross then reels Gulak in for the DOOMSDAY SAIDO!! But Kross isn’t done with Gulak, he waits on Gulak to get up.
Gulak stands, swings, but into the KROSSJACKET!! Gulak taps, Kross wins!
Winner: Karrion Kross, by submission
But Kross makes Gulak suffer! Gulak fades out as Kross squeezes tighter! Gulak finally passes out and then Kross lets go! Scarlett smiles and raises Kross’ hand in victory. They then tie Gulak up in the ropes to use him to send a message. Will whoever is Universal Champion have to prepare for the time when they have to cross paths with Kross?
SmackDown presents Roman’s Reign, Part 3: SmackDown Ruler.
“During his historic 733 days as champion, Roman Reigns has called Friday Night SmackDown, ‘Home.'” Roman himself said SmackDown needs him to put food on everyone’s table. “Seven spectacular title defenses against some of the greatest superstars in the world today, the Tribal Chief has smashed them all. Kevin Owens, Finn Balor, Rey Mysterio, (Matt) Riddle, all came to the Island of Relevancy on a quest for greatness, only to have their hopes dashed and their bodies smashed by the Tribal Chief. Tonight, we acknowledge the historic title reign of Roman Reigns.”
Ronda Rousey is here!
The Baddest Woman on the Planet paid her fine, but almost went to jail over how she treated WWE security staff! Ronda has an envelope as well as the mic as she gets in the ring. Fans are fired up to see Ronda, and she says she has an official statement from WWE global headquarters in regards to her suspension. And she can’t think of anyone she’d rather have read it than her “friend” and everyone’s favorite official, Adam Pearce! Fans boo but Pearce does walk out on stage to tell Ronda, “Listen. Whatever these decisions are, whatever that decision is, I want you to know, it has never, ever been personal.”
Oh, it’s not personal? But Pearce personally called the cops and personally had her arrested. To be fair, her choices got her arrested. We all know the hard choices are never easy, and there are protocols to be followed in the WWE. She may not want to hear this, but he was- Just doing his job? The same excuse of all spineless middle managers. She expected better of Adam. She can call him “Adam,” right? They have history, after all. She tells Pearce to read the note. If this is how she wants it, fine. He opens the envelope up. Ronda tells him to read out loud. Fans don’t want to sit here and watch him just look at the thing. Fine…
The message says, “Over the past several weeks, Ronda Rousey has engaged in behavior that is completely unprofessional.” Ronda says that is subjective, but whatever. “However, her behavior…” Wait, this seems to catch Pearce off. “Her behavior never broached the level of being criminal. Her arrest two weeks ago was completely unwarranted.” Heh, unwarranted. Get it? Can he finish? Yes, please. “Ronda Rousey has paid her fines in full. And while she will remain on probation, as of today, September 2nd, 2022, her suspension is over, and she will resume in-ring competition immediately.”
Oh, what was that last part? She couldn’t hear it over the fans cheering. It says her suspension is over and she will resume in-ring competition immediately. That’s her favorite part! Aw, shucks! Thanks, Adam. What’s wrong? Having a hard day at the office? Pearce says this is absurd! She attacks a ref, attacks security, held the show hostage, is a danger to everyone, it was Pearce’s duty to call the police! Heh, duty. Pearce says if it was up to him, he wouldn’t have suspended her, he would’ve fired her! Aw, she’s devastated. But what did he think was going to happen? The board was going to value his opinion over the most recognizable female athlete in history?
Ronda tells Pearce to kiss her ass! Pearce asks if this is a joke to her. Does she think that his job is easy? Is that what she thinks? Does she think it’s easy for him to do this 52 weeks a year, twice a week, two whole shows on two different networks, getting these shows on-air while babysitting egos like hers, but never once gets a thanks? Does she think anyone has ever gone up to him and said, “Hey, Adam, great job!” HELL NO! All he gets from people like Ronda- OH, would you fans shut up?! All he ever gets from people like Ronda is grief! And then the people from “the office!” Oh he WISHES someone from there would do this job, but they can’t cut it!
And Pearce is damn proud of the job he does here! He’s not proud of busting his ass for those who criticize and undermine him! As for her question about the board, he has no problem with the board. He just has a problem with HER! Oh~, Ronda acts like she owns this place! God forbid things don’t go her way! People call her the Baddest Woman on the Planet! But Pearce just calls Ronda “The single biggest bitch I’ve ever met!” Ronda frowns and Pearce realizes he was unprofessional. He was just stressed out. Ronda throws Pearce down and puts on a DOUBLE WRISTLOCK! Fans cheer as Ronda says if she should do it. YES! ARMBAR!!
Ronda lets Pearce go and he scrambles away to a corner. Ronda leaves him be, but will she be facing consequences for what she did to a WWE official?
Sami Zayn continues preparations.
This is going to be great! A delivery for Roman Reigns. Oh, they weren’t expecting flowers. Wait, black roses? They don’t smell very good. And the note is just signed, “TICK TOCK.” They’re from Kross!! Sami will just put those over here… Oh no, the smell is on his hands…
Hit Row VS Maximum Male Models w/ Max & Maxxine Dupri!
B-Fab, Top Dolla & Ashante THEE Adonis have a style all their own that doesn’t seem to sit well with Max Du-PRI. But can Maçé & Mansôör turn down the volume? Or will their tag team debut be anything but titillating?
SmackDown returns as MMM makes their entrance. Maxxine does the introductions for them, and then the teams sort out. Adonis wins rock-paper-scissors and starts against Mansoor. They tie up, go around, and Mansoor arm-drags hard to then pose on the mat. Adonis rushes over but Mansoor trips him up. Adonis kicks him away, kips up and dropkicks him down! Mace runs in but Adonis dodges! Dolla ROCKS Mace and Adonis DROPKICKS him, too! MMM regroups outside and B-Fab taunts them. But then Los Lotharios walk to the ring and Maxxine takes notice. Los Lotharios flirt with B-Fab, though, but Adonis & Dolla tell them to scram.
Los Lotharios talk some trash, but Dolla welcomes them to get in the ring then. Los Lotharios stay back, so B-Fab WRECKS them with a dropkick through the ropes! Fans fire up but Mansoor CLOBBERS Adonis! Mansoor bumps Adonis off buckles, fires off heavy hands and he tags Mace. Drop toehold and a strut on Adonis’ back! Then a BIG elbow drop! Cover, TWO! Mace drags Adonis up, bumps him off buckles then fires off big body shots! Tag to Mansoor, and he holds Adonis in place for Mace to run and back elbow! Feed to a DROPKICK, then cover, TWO! Mansoor drags Adonis back but Adonis BOOTS him away!
Mansoor gets the leg again, he ducks the enziguri, but Adonis rolls through to get away! Hot tag to Top Dolla! Fans fire up and Mansoor panics. Mansoor swings but Dolla blocks. Dolla wrenches the arm, DEKCS Mansoor, then kicks low to run. KNEE LIFT! Mace gets in but Dolla DECKS him! Dolla runs at Mansoor, and he SPLASHES him in the corner! Tag to Adonis, and they set Mansoor up, for the HEAVY HITTER! Cover, Hit Row wins!
Winners: Hit Row, by pinfall
And if you didn’t know, now you know! Los Lotharios are still mouthing off, and the brawl is on! MMM get involved, it’s 4v2 against Hit Row! Max Dupri directs traffic, but then the STREET PROFITS are here! Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins CLOBBER Mansoor, then GAMANGIRI Mace to throw him out! Dolla CLOBBERS both Lotharios! Fans fire up as the Profits and Hit Row stand tall, will they be bringing that smoke and getting that money money money money?
Backstage interview with Happy Corbin.
Kayla says after last week- No! He doesn’t wanna talk about Ricochet pulling off some miracle victory. And he doesn’t wanna talk about the week before that, or the week before that. His life is happy! He is happy! He doesn’t live in the past. So when you’re on a string of bad luck, sometimes you double down. Corbin knows he’s the best man in the locker room. He issues an open challenge! Anyone who wants to meet him in that ring is going to be crawling back to the back. Corbin heads out, but who will step up to try their luck?
SmackDown presents Roman’s Reign, Part 4: Tribal Warrior.
“Throughout his epic reign, Roman Reigns has successfully defended his championship in some of the most brutal, unforgiving matches in the history of WWE. Inside a steel cage. Under Extreme Rules. Tables, Ladders & Chairs. Hell in a Cell! Last Man Standing. Through it all, the Tribal Chief has survived vicious matches, only to come out stronger on the other side. Tonight, we celebrate and we indeed acknowledge the historic two year title reign of Roman Reigns.”
Open Challenge: Happy Corbin VS ???
Corbin goes to the ring and he dares anyone to come get some! But who will it be? Who wants their shot? It’s SHINSUKE NAKAMURA! Pat McAfee is loving this as his most disliked superstar is facing his most beloved! Will the King of Strong Style crush whatever is left of Corbin’s happiness?
The bell rings, Corbin and Nakamura circle and tie up, and Corbin powers Nakamura to a corner! Corbin fires off stomps and haymakers, then he lets off, shouting at the fans. Fans taunt “BUM ASS CORBIN!” but he drags Nakamura up. Nakamura ducks the haymaker to fire off a strike fest! AX KICK! Corbin falls and fans fire up! Nakamura KICKS Corbin to a corner, KICKS him more, and then gives him GOOD VIBRATIONS~! Nakamura lets off at 4, grins and gives Corbin another round. Corbin powers up to ROCK Nakamura, CLUB him, but he wobbles as he shakes out the cobwebs.
Corbin suplexes, Nakamura knees free then WHEEL KICKS Corbin down! Nakamura aims from the corner, “YAO~!” But Corbin hits Nakamura with DEEP SIX! Cover, TWO! Nakamura survives and Corbin is frustrated! Corbin snarls while fans chant, “Corbin Sucks!” Corbin says THEY suck! Corbin drags Nakamura up, reels him in, but Nakamura slips free! Nakamura dodges Corbin again, but Corbin slides out to slide in, into a KINSHASA!! Cover, Nakamura wins!!
Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall
Sometimes when you gamble, you bust! That was about what happened with Corbin playing a game of chance with the SmackDown roster, will he have to be a bit wiser from now on? As for Nakamura, can he get back up towards a title opportunity once WWE is past Clash at the Castle?
WWE looks back at the origins of Connor’s Cure.
In 2014, Connor’s Cure was established to honor the life and memory of young Connor Michalek to help find a cure for pediatric cancer, so that no one else would have to go through the pain he did. After his passing, he was enshrined as the inaugural recipient of the Warrior Award for his bravery, love and hope. Through Connor’s Cure and V Foundation’s funding, they’ve awarded $4.5 million in grants and helped over 500 families worldwide. The WWE Universe has come together offering hope in the mission to kick cancer’s butt!
Corbin sulks backstage.
Happy isn’t feeling so happy right now, but wait! What’s this limo pulling up with the longhorns on it? “What happened to you? Get in.” Is that JBL?! JBL is giving Corbin a ride?! What will John “Bradshaw” Layfield have to teach Corbin in order to get him back on the winning side?
“Butch” Pete Dunne w/ The Brawling Brutes VS Ludwig Kaiser w/ GUNTHER!
The man formerly known as the Bruiserweight was tearing it up with the Impeccable German last week, and now they get to do it all over again! Will Dunne butcher Ludwig to send a message to Der Ring General? Or will Ludwig say “NEIN!” and send that message to the Brutes instead?
SmackDown returns and Imperium make their entrance. Gunther still walks in front of Ludwig, even though this is Ludwig’s match. The bell rings and Dunne rushes in! Ludwig catches him but Dunne is after the arm with a double wristlock! Ludwig pulls Dunne’s hair, pushes him away, but Dunne pushes Ludwig down! Dunne fires off hammering fists but Ludwig pushes him away again. Ludwig goes to a corner but Dunne is right on him! The ref counts, Dunne backs off, but Ludwig CROSS CHOPS him! Ludwig stands on Dunne’s hair while striking the Imperium pose. The ref counts but Ludwig steps away at 4.
Ludwig headlocks Dunne, Dunne powers out, things speed up, Ludwig dodges but Dunne CLOBBERS him on the return! Dunne drags Ludwig up, hammerlocks the arm and traps it to then pull on the far arm. Ludwig endures as Dunne BENDS the fingers! And BENDS! And BENDS! Sheamus is loving it as Dunne wrenches the arm to isolate it, and STOMP it! Ludwig clutches his triceps while the Brutes rally for Dunne. Ludwig blocks a kick to shot “NEIN!” Ludwig SLAPS Dunne then BUTTERFLY SUPLEXES! Ludwig then goes up and takes aim, FLYING- FOREARM!! Dunne blasts Ludwig outta the air!
Ludwig flops out of the ring, Dunne goes to the apron and LEAPS, into an UPPERCUT! Both women are down and fans are fired up! Sheamus and Gunther stare down and egg each other on, but the ref tells them to stay back. It is a tense moment as SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns again and Ludwig ROCKS Dunne with a right! Then he pulls Dunne by his ear, but Dunne HEADBUTTS the hand! Dunne fires off hands, Ludwig gives them back, and the fans are fired up! Dunne DECKS Ludwig into a corner! Then runs in to GAMANGIRI! Dunne drops knees right on the bad arm! And then he whips Ludwig to waistlock and GERMAN SUPLEX! Ludwig flounders, Dunne STOMPS the hands! And BUZZSAWS Ludwig down! Cover, TWO! Ludwig survives but the Brutes rally up the fans. Dunne gets Ludwig’s arm and CLUBS away on the shoulder! Dunne rains down forearms then stomps the arm again!
Gunther coaches Ludwig, but Dunne drags Ludwig up to whip to a corner. Ludwig reverses, Dunne goes up, but Ludwig says “NEIN!” and keeps him from going over! Ludwig trips Dunne and Dunne hits buckles! Dunne BOOTS Ludwig, goes up, but Ludwig GAMANGIRIS now! Ludwig puts Dunne upside-down in the ropes to DROPKICK him down! INVERTED EXPLODER! Cover, TWO!! Ludwig snarls as Dunne survives. Ludwig runs, but Dunne ducks the Penalty Kick to ENZIGURIR! Dunne runs, into an UPPERCUT! Ludwig back suplexes, but Dunne lands on his feet! BUZZSAW! Ludwig is dazed and Sheamus is loving this!
Dunne goes to a corner, waits on Ludwig to get up, and he runs in, into a tilt-o-whirl SLAM!! Cover, TWO!! Ludwig can’t believe that Dunne survived, but it’s hard to believe Ludwig was still in this! Dunne BENDS Ludwig’s fingers! And kicks from below over and over and over again! Dunne gets up, but into the clinch! SIDE- NO, Dunne BENDS the fingers!! And SNAPS them!! Pump handle, BITTER END!! Cover, Dunne wins!
Winner: Pete Dunne, by pinfall
The Brutes celebrate with “Butch” but Gunther tells Sheamus that proves nothing! The jackets come off, Sheamus has his mates stand down, and the fans fire up! Sheamus brings down the suspender straps, but Ludwig says they need to take a tactical retreat! This is to happen at Clash at the Castle, not here tonight! Gunther accepts his lieutenant’s suggestion, but will the Celtic Warrior give Gunther a fight like he’s never had before?
SmackDown presents Roman’s Reign, Part 5: Greatness on a Different Level.
“Bruno Sammartino. Bob Backlund. Pedro Morales. Hulk Hogan. These legends laid claim to the longest reigns as WWE Champion. After 733 days of dominance, they are joined by the longest reigning champion of the modern era, The Head of the Table, the Tribal Chief, the first-ever Undisputed WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion, Roman Reigns!” Roman says this is GOD MODE, Greatness On a Different level. “Tonight, we celebrate and we indeed acknowledge the two year, historic title reign of Roman… Reigns!”
Sami & The Usos finish preparations.
Check, check and check! We’re all set. Then let’s go! But wait. Shouldn’t they wait for Roman so they can all go out there together? Y’know, the entire Bloodline. Jey asks Sami what he means by the entire Bloodline. Sami meant the four of them. Jey says Sami is getting too comfortable around here. He’s stepping on the line. No, that’s not what this is! Jimmy says tonight is about Roman. They should all go out their to introduce Roman, then put the spotlight all on Big Uce. Sami’s for that, and so is Jey. Yeet. Let’s go! The Usos head out, and Sami takes a deep breath. Will this celebration go as planned for the entire Bloodline?
Tyson Fury posts on Instagram.
He is very excited for the first WWE “Premium Live Event” happening in the UK in roughly 30 years to be in Cardiff, with Roman Reigns VS Drew McIntyre for the Universal Championship. Fury will be live in the front row for that, he hopes to see you all there.
Sami & The Usos head to the ring!
They hold up the fingers, #WeTheOnes, and the set is just as Sami said it would be. Sami gest the mic to say, “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the championship celebration honoring the TWO YEAR, historic title reign of the Tribal Chief, ROMAN REIGNS!” Fans are torn, but Sami says that’s right. Before he gets started, is it okay that he’s hosting this? He got dressed up and planned the whole thing. Jimmy says to do his thing as the Honorary Uce. My man! Thank you for that! Sami wouldn’t want be accused of being “too comfortable.” Sami then looks at Jey.
Sami starts with, “For the last two years-” Jey interrupts! “For two whole years, Roman Reigns has dominated everybody!” Fans are torn again. Jey says everyone who stepped up got sat down! Sami adds, “Preach!” Jey says everyone who stepped up been Superman Punched. “BET!” Speared. “YEET!” Guillotined. “DAS RIGHT!” They’ve been flat out beat! “100!!” Sami, what’re you doing? Just stop. Jey says what they need everyone to do right now is stand up, put your fingers to the sky, and help them introduce to you the Head of the Table! The Tribal Chief! The Needle Mover! God Mode himself! THE WWE Undisputed Universal Champion… Their cousin, ROMAN! REIGNS!!
Roman’s Escalade drives in, he exits the vehicle, and gets CLAYMORED by McIntyre!! The Scottish Warrior leaves Roman down on the ground and storms his way to gorilla! Sami and the Usos are freaking out as McIntyre makes his way out to the ring! Fans fire up and the Usos tell Sami to handle this! Sami goes to the ramp, but he gest a HEADBUTT! McIntyre then glares at the Usos. He throws off his shirt to show the bruises from last week. The Usos attack but he HEABUTTS Jey, CLOBBERS Jimmy, and then TOSSES Jimmy out of the ring! McIntyre wrecks the pictures and then runs to FLY! Direct hit on all three men!
McIntyre roars as he stands back up, then he puts Sami in the ring! McIntyre goes around the way, gets himself a chair, and TOSSES it into the ring! McIntyre grabs more chairs, TOSSES those into the ring, and Sami gets out before he gets hit! Sami grabs a chair, JAMS McIntyre with it, but then a CLAYMORE through the chair takes out Sami! McIntyre isn’t done, he drags Jimmy over to suplex onto and THROUGH the announce desk! McIntyre finds Jey, lines up his shot, and he copies Roman’s “OOAH~!” before the SPEAR through the barriers!! McIntyre gets a mic to say, “When are you gonna understand, Roman? I will never, ever stop!!”
“Look around me. The Bloodline, torn apart. God Mode deactivated! At Cardiff, it comes down to me and you. I am gonna kick your head right off your body, and you’re gonna look up at the NEW Undisputed Champion!!” Fans are fired up for McIntyre, will that historic reign we’ve heard about all night come to an end when these two Clash at the Castle?
My Thoughts:
Now this was a great go-home! For one, we opened with a great match. Viking Rules was surprisingly far more than just a themed Street Fight, they really decked out the ringside area for it. It was an awesome match, bordering on a PPV level match, and that finish was insane! Double powerbomb through two tables, no one was surviving that. The Viking Raiders move on, and I suppose we could still see them challenging for the tag titles, even with the Usos as Heels. We got a good promo from Shayna and Liv, but I still expect the story to be a parallel of Liv VS Ronda where Liv more survives than wins.
Kross had a good promo calling out both Roman and McIntyre, and then he of course destroys Gulak. Kross is going to be SmackDown’s contender, while Seth Rollins or Matt Riddle can be seen as Raw’s contender, depending on who wins there. I also like the nice touch of Kross sending gross flowers to Roman to be a reminder. We got a fairly good match out of Hit Row VS Maximum Male Models, though it was “overbooked” for good reason. Those four teams could also make a case for tag title contention, and I’m sure we’ll get an 8 Man Tag that then results in a Fatal 4 Way Tag. And if nothing else, Maxxine is totally ditching MMM for Los Lotharios.
Happy Corbin throwing out that Open Challenge was of course going to backfire. And as commentary noted, great continuity that it was Nakamura, who sent Corbin into that initial spiral after taking away the King of the Ring crown from him. And wow, JBL is going to mentor Corbin? Is he going to become even more of a “rich person” gimmick character? Maybe “Cowboy Corbin” with a really fake country accent? We also got an awesome “main event” match out of Dunne VS Ludwig. That was a lot like what we would’ve gotten out of these guys in NXT/NXT UK, so I’m glad RawDown fans got to see that. Dunne winning could be the go-home math version of Sheamus standing tall, so as awesome as it’d be for Sheamus to become Ultimate Grand Slam Champion, I think Gunther retains.
Then… Wow, okay, that Ronda Rousey segment. It was delivered well, which is a great thing for Ronda. She didn’t rush her lines, she didn’t drag things out, and I suppose there is something to the “sassy, smug Face” trope. I mean, it works for Sonic the Hedgehog. But honestly, I was more on Pearce’s side with his rant about being underappreciated working hard at a thankless job. But of course he gets walloped by Ronda, we’re supposed to think of her as Stone Cold Ronda and cheer her on as she defies authority and does what she wants. Oddly, I kinda hope Shayna wins the title so that she and Ronda can feud and Shayna can also be used as Pearce’s proxy.
I’m a little surprised we got FIVE little vignettes for the Roman Reigns retrospective instead of a couple bigger ones. With them emphasizing how we’re “acknowledging” his historic dominance, I feel like they’re giving Roman his sendoff before Clash. Of course, McIntyre busting up the celebration was wildly fun but also means McIntyre stands tall. I really hope go-home math isn’t a factor this time, because the timing is just perfect. Roman can lose, there’s time before the Royal Rumble where Roman can work to become even stronger and try to get the titles back. For McIntyre, he can finally have his moment in front of a live crowd, he can be on all the shows like he said he would, facing Kross and Rollins and Riddle and whoever else, and then we see how it all feels before a rematch with Roman.
My Score: 8.7/10
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Can the Last Real Champion handle The Truth?
While the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments reach their semifinals, John Cena has his first match on SmackDown in years, against Ron Killings!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss; Asuka wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson; No Contest.
- King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn; Orton wins and advances to Night of Champions.
- Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice; Charlotte wins.
- Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight; Knight wins, by disqualification.
- John Cena VS Ron Killings; Killings wins, by disqualification.
PLAY BY PLAY
LA Knight is here!
Grand Rapids fires up as the Mega Star marches right to the ring. Knight grabs a mic while the fans chant his name, and he says, “LEMME TALK TO YA!” The fans cheer, and Knight says, “Let’s just go ahead and rewind our mind a little bit. We go to back to Money in the Bank, Seth and his boys, they just happen to come down and screw this guy.” The fans boo that. Knight says usually, he lets things slide. But he just figured he couldn’t let it slide, so he made sure to screw on of Rollins’ boys in their title opportunity, King of the Ring. But then they came back, paid it back and screwed Knight outta KOTR, so he had to go and screw the other one over!
And it just has Knight thinking. Fans “YEAH!” and Knight says there is only one way this can go. He has gone back and forth between Raw and SmackDown, where it ends, nobody knows! Except Knight! He knows! He knows where this ends! The fans cheer that! And Knight says it ends with him and Rollins! And what better place than here? And what better time than now! Knight tells Rollins to come on out and talk to him! But “Ladies and gentlemen…” The fans boo as Paul Heyman walks out and gives his introductions. He serves as the Wise Man to Mr. Money in the Bank, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins!
Heyman says you do not boo that name. And you screwed up your cue, so they’ll do this again. He serves as the Wise Man for Seth Freakin’ Rollins! The fans keep booing, Heyman wants to try again, but Knight says shut up and get to the point! Why is Heyman here?! Heyman walks to the ring and asks permission to step inside. The fans chant “O T C! O T C!” but Knight steps back. Heyman steps into the ring, and he says yes, there has been a lot of bad blood between Knight and Mr. MITB, Seth Freakin’ Rollins. However, Heyman happens to be, with all due respect to everyone here in Grand Rapids, Michigan…
The fans chant “C M PUNK!” at Heyman now and he frowns. Knight says Heyman has a lot of enemies. Heyman says he is the biggest LA Knight fan in all of WWE! Heyman’s been waiting a long time to say this: YEAH! Now, because of that, Seth Freakin’ Rollins (the fans boo again) has allowed Heyman to say to Knight, as a favor to Heyman… It is time for Knight to get the hell outta Grand Rapids, Michigan. Because if he does not, something really bad is going to happen to him before the end of the night. Have a nice evening. Heyman turns to go but the fans cheer Knight on. Knight says he couldn’t help but notice, but did you~ (poking fun at Heyman’s voice cracking) threaten Knight?
Because Knight wants to wrap his head around this. He’s heard Heyman say stuff like this before, because Heyman is a liar, a swindler, a grifter, a scammer and a schemer! Heyman leeches on to any talent that has a bit of hype, sucks ’em dry, then moves on to the next! Rollins just happens to be the latest in this. But where next? Who cares! But the bottom line is, Knight asked for Rollins but he got Heyman. And while he got Heyman, he got a Heyman out here talking all tough. So it has Knight thinking, he has a great idea.
Talking about wise man, wisdom, there was a point in time if Heyman had said something like that, a man like Knight would look at a “thing” like Heyman and punched his wisdom teeth down his throat! Knight won’t do that, yet. But here’s the deal: Heyman’s talking all tough, but if he can’t bring Rollins out here, then the only thing to do out here in Grand Rapids is Knight fighting Heyman here and now! The fans fire up for that! Knight asks if the fans want that, and they cheer! “HUH?” “YEAH!” “HUH?” “YEAH!” “YEAH!!” Knight promises he’ll turn around, take his vest off, and Heyman gets the first shot. He better make it good, or Knight will molly whop his ass right outta Grand Rapids!
The fans fire up as Knight does as promised. He turns around, his vest is off, but Heyman bails? The fans boo as the Wise Man doesn’t play along. Heyman says, “Remember when I told you to get the hell out of Grand Rapids or else something really bad is gonna happen to you before the end of the night? That wasn’t a prediction. That… was a spoiler!” Heyman throws down his mic, and here comes Bronson Reed & Bron Breakker! Rollins’ behemoths head to the ring, but Knight fires off on them first! The fans rally as Knight throws hands and feet, but then Bron TACKLES Knight! Bronson joins in and they mug Knight right out of the ring!
Bronson drags Knight up to TOSS him over barriers! Bron clears the desk, he wants Bronson to put Knight through it! But Knight has a chair! He JAMS Bron, JAMS Bronson, then SMACKS Bron and SMACKS Bronson! Knight gets in the ring, ready to hit whoever gets in! The fans cheer Knight but Heyman has Bron & Bronson stand down. Will Heyman have the henchmen try again before the end of tonight?
SmackDown returns and…
Heyman has Bron & Bronson calm down, they have this under control. It is all in their favor, and it always will be in their favor. That is the whole point behind this. Byron Saxton steps in and wants to talk to them, but Heyman has to hold Bron back like the dog he is! Heyman says no need to bite Byron. Byron apologizes, he has word from SmackDown GM, Nick Aldis, that Bronson Reed VS LA Knight is set for tonight. Heyman says okay, thank you, and goodbye. Byron leaves and Heyman smiles. He told them! Patience is not a virtue, it is strategy. Bronson smiles and nods. Will Auzsilla destroy LA here in Grand Rapids?
Queen of the Ring Semifinals: Asuka VS Alexa Bliss!
Two great returns to action through this tournament, and now they cross paths with each other. The Empress of Tomorrow overcame Ivy Nile, Raquel Rodriguez and Stephanie Vaquer while Lil’ Miss Bliss outsmarted Alba Fyre, Candice LeRae and Charlotte Flair. But whose comeback story overtakes the other’s here just one match away from Night of Champions?
The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, Alexa headlocks, but Asuka powers up and out. Alexa RAMS Asuka, Asuka roars, and the fans fire up as Asuka fires hands! Alexa blocks a kick to THROW Asuka down, then basement DROPKICK! The fans cheer as Asuka and Alexa reset. Alexa kicks, Asuka blocks and slips through to waistlock. Alexa elbows free, runs, but Asuka runs past her to then RUN her over! The fans fire up and Asuka runs in again, HIP ATTACK! Alexa falls to the floor and the fans fire up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Asuka lets Alexa stay down while she soaks up the cheers. The ring count starts, Alexa rises, but Asuka goes out after her. Alexa slips inside and DROPKICKS Asuka’s leg! Asuka falls from the apron but she has to nod respect for that savvy move. Asuka steps back in at 6 of 10, and she resets with Alexa. They circle, feel things out, and tie up. Asuka wrenches and wristlocks, but Alexa rolls and wrenches to hammerlock. Alexa waistlocks, rolls Asuka, TWO! The two stand off again and they both nod respect. They reset, the fans rally up, and the two feel things out. Asuka trips Alexa, clamps on with a headlock, and she grinds Alexa down.
Alexa endures, Asuka turns her over to go after the arm, then she stands on Alexa’s arm. Alexa endures, Asuka shifts arms, but Alexa wrenches out to wrangle Asuka. Alexa shifts to a cording hold, but Asuka fights up and fires body shots. Alexa whips Asuka to a corner, but Asuka elbows her away! And BOOTS! Asuka goes up, leaps, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Alexa stays in this but Asuka stays focused. Asuka drags Alexa around and gives her Kawada Kicks! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Asuka wrenches for a chicken wing! Alexa fights the Asuka Lock and JAWBREAKERS free! Alexa runs up to RUN Asuka over!
The fans rally as Alexa rallies, then hits a BLOCKBUSTER! The fans fire up as Alexa SLAPS, ROCKS, and KNEES Asuka down! Then SOMERSAULT SENTON! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and Alexa grows frustrated. The fans rally while Alexa brings Asuka up. Asuka breaks free to URAKEN, SOBAT, FRONT KICK, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Alexa tumbles away, Asuka runs up, SLIDING KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up as Asuka stands and takes aim. But Alexa ducks the buzzsaw! Cover, TWO! Alexa clinches, TWISTED- NO, Asuka rolls Alexa up! TWO! Alexa sits up, BUZZSAW! Cover, TWO!! Alexa survives but Asuka just fires up!
The fans rally as Asuka goes to the corner. Asuka climbs from the outside, and MISSILE- NO, Alexa dodges this time! Alexa kicks and DDTS! Cover, TWO! Asuka stays in this and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Alexa drags Asuka into the drop zone. Alexa goes up, up, and the fans fire up! TWISTED- NO, Asuka moves, so Alexa stops. Alexa won’t let Asuka sneak away, but then she gets caught in an ARMBAR!! Alexa flails, rolls, but ends up in an omoplata! RINGS OF SATURN!! Alexa fights around, pops her arm free for a cover, TWO!! Asuka reels Alexa in, NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Alexa stays in this! Asuka fires up, the fans are with her, and she runs up, only for Alexa to ROCK her with a right! Alexa puts Asuka in the Tree of Woe, and she DROPKICKS Asuka out of it! Alexa climbs back up, and TWISTED BLISSÂ onto knees!! Asuka still counters the moonsault, and hits the EMPRESS IMPACT!! Cover, Asuka wins!
Winner: Asuka, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
The Empress says no one is ready for Asuka, and that has certainly been the case! But on Raw, we find out, will it be Jade Cargill or Roxanne Perez that meets Asuka in Saudi Arabia?
Jade Cargill, Mia Yim & B-Fab watch backstage.
And Fab says damn, Asuka just came back and she’s already making statements. Almost like she never left. Michin says maybe they need to make their own statements. They need to talk to Aldis about the tag titles. Fab agrees. Fab & Mia wish Jade luck before heading out. Byron walks in and asks if he can have a word. Jade says shoot. Byron says Asuka just advanced, but Jade has her match on Monday with Roxanne Perez. How does Jade feel about facing a talented competitor like Roxie? And how does she feel about the possibility of facing Asuka in the finals? Jade says “Rox” has potential. Roxie is quick and scrappy.
But she’s still trying to prove herself. And this isn’t a proving ground, this is a throne room, and Jade was built for royalty. As for Asuka, there’s a storm on the horizon. But news flash, Jade is that storm. This entire tournament wasn’t built for the future, but for a woman who can walk through fire, shatter glass ceilings, and take her crown on the way to the top. This Queen of the Ring, Jade isn’t just walking in to win. She’s here to reign. Will the Prodigy be washed away by the storm this Monday?
Alexa Bliss returns backstage.
And Chelsea Green finds her. Flanked by her Secret Her-vice, The Hot Mess asks, “Hey, little fu-fu, how’s your boo-boo?” Alexa asks back, “How’s yours?” Piper tells Chelsea not to get upset, Alexa is just jealous. Chelsea says this serves Alexa right. Chelsea should be Queen of the Ring, and she’d be building her parliament if not for Alexa! Oh, if she has that big of an issue, then try facing her in the ring. Chelsea says she will! But then Charlotte Flair walks in and says if anyone should’ve still been in this tournament, it’s her. But had Chelsea’s “replacement” tapped out sooner, maybe she would.
So here’s the deal: Charlotte will have a match made and tap Chelsea out instead. N-Not if Chelsea makes it a bank holiday! ROYAL DUTIES! NICHOLAS! Chelsea hurries away with the Secret Her-vice following, and Alexa tells Charlotte that she doesn’t need Charlotte’s help. Oh, that’s cute. Because Charlotte wasn’t helping Alexa. Charlotte leaves now, leaving Alexa to chew on that. Will The Queen chew up the Hot Mess and spit her out now that she has nothing better to do?
Aleister Black VS Kit Wilson!
The Dark Father is also directionless now that he is out of the King of the Ring tournament, but he never lets that bother him. Will he make himself the direction all roads lead when things #FadeToBlack? Or will Kit prove he can be Pretty Deadly all on his own?
Wait, who is attacking Kit? It’s R-TRUTH! But why’s Ron Killings going after Kit?! He POSTS Kit, drags him back out, and puts him in an STF!! The fans fire up and Kit taps, but it won’t matter when this isn’t a match! Killings lets Kit out of the hold and demands a mic. A mic is given, and Killings says, “Get John Cena out here now. I’m driving! On my terms! Cena, get out here!” The fans fire up and then Killings puts Kit back in the STF! Aleister is rather confused, but producers hurry out here to stop Truth. Truth lets Kit go, Jamie Noble asks Truth wait for the main event. Truth seethes, but he accepts the terms.
Killings leaves, walking right past Aleister. Will there be no denying The Truth when he finally gets his hands on the Last Real Champion?
Jamie Noble talks with Truth backstage.
Jamie says Truth has to calm down. Truth says he wants John Cena NOW! He’s driving! Yes, okay, but just wait. Truth promises that when he sees Cena, he is killing him tonight! Aleister steps in and asks Truth why he is getting involved in Aleister’s match. Truth says it wasn’t personal, it had nothing to do with Aleister. These two stare down, and then Damian Priest steps in. The Archer of Infamy has Aleister stand down. Truth is going through a lot, let Priest talk to him. Oh, of course. Aleister says, “Ron.” “Black.” Aleister leaves, Priest tells Truth that there’s no need for any of that. Priest gets Truth is frustrated, but he can’t just go beat up people for no reason.
Priest used to do that, and Truth was the guy there to make him smile. Truth made the world smile! All that anger and negativity, focus that on the match tonight. Focus that on John Cena. Go out there and handle business with Cena, then Priest and Truth can go downtown to celebrate. How’s that sound? Truth says sounds good, DP. They shake hands, and Priest heads out. Truth is still seething, but will he make sure it all explodes on Cena?
Cody Rhodes is here!
Grand Rapids sings along as The American Nightmare makes his way out, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, he high-fives fans in the front row, then looks closely at the King of the Ring’s crown. Cody goes to the ring and grabs the mic. He hears the fans cheer him on, but then Jey Uso is here! The fans fire up as Main Event Jey makes his way down through the crowd! A young fan joins in bouncing along, but so does all of Grand Rapids! Jey continues down the stands, finds another young fan, and they bounce along again. Jey then reaches ringside, high-fives the front row, and he joins Cody in the ring as we get the next wave of YEET!
Grand Rapids might want to YEET all night, but Jey hugs it out with Cody before he gets his own mic. The music dies down, the fans chant, “One More Time! One More Time!” and Cody says sure, one more is fine. Jey says okay, and yes, the fans get to YEET again! Jey says hey, Cody doesn’t even have to say nothing. They been in the trenches! “YEET!” Still in the trenches! “YEET!” From fighting The Bloodline… “YEET!” To winning tag titles… “YEET!” To finishing their stories at WrestleMania! “YEET!” They’ve both been to the mountaintop. “YEET!” But Cody, on Monday, there is only room for one of them.
The fans are intrigued, and Cody nods. Jey says there’s only one that can go. Cody VS Jey, Jey VS Cody, and Jey knows Cody will bring it. Jey has to get his, Uce. He has to, just like Cody has to get his. But that said, Uce, it ain’t personal. This all business. But that all said, too, Uce, on Monday, after they go to war, please believe that it will be four letters, one word, uh uh… YEET! Cody smiles and the fans cheer. They shake hands again, and wait! Here comes Sami Zayn! The fans cheer as the Great Liberator makes his way to the ring. Sami grabs a mic to say, “This is nice, isn’t it? I get to share the ring with two great friends.”
The fans applaud, and Sami says he is in the ring with two of the very best that this business has to offer! The fans cheer that, too! Sami says he’d be lying if he denied there was a part of him that sees the three of them in this ring, and notices how only one of them has never been world champion. Jey, Sami wants him to know, man to man, this year, Sami missed Mania. Sami had no reason to be in Las Vegas, but he got his ass on a plane to Vegas for one reason: To congratulate Jey the moment he won the World Heavyweight Championship! Sami loves Jey, and he is proud of him. And Cody, for years, everyone watched as Cody finished his story.
And when Cody did, he did the unthinkable and pinned Roman Reigns in the middle of this ring, Sami was the first one out here to congratulate Cody. Sami is so proud that Cody finished his story. So he hopes both men understand that now, it is time for Sami to finish HIS story! The fans cheer, but then here comes Randy Orton! The Viper looks at the crown, then goes to the ring. The fans sing along with Voices and Orton grabs himself a mic. “So Cody, same deal as last week but I’m gonna say it again. There is no line I will not cross, even if it means going through you, so that I can get to John Cena at SummerSlam, beat him, and get my FIFTEENTH world championship!”
The fans cheer, and Orton tells Jey, “Man, I respect the… Hell outta you, dude. Our families go way, way, way back. Nothing but love, dude. But if you’re standing across the ring from me at SummerSlam, it’s not gonna be four letters, one word. It’s gonna be three letters, one move.” The fans say it, “R K O!” And Orton says he not only speaks for himself but for everyone here in this arena when he says, and from the bottom of his heart, one day and one day soon, Sami Zayn will be world champion. But not at SummerSlam. Because tonight, Sami is on the receiving end of the three most dangerous letters in sports entertainment: R K O.
Orton drops the mic, and it is time to put those words into action. Will it be the Legend Killer or the Underdog from the Underground that heads for Saudi Arabia?
King of the Ring Semifinals: Randy Orton VS Sami Zayn!
SmackDown returns, the bell rings, and these two circle. They tie up, Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, then wristlocks. Orton endures, fights up, and the fans duel. Orton wrenches Sami in return to then headlock. Sami endures, powers up to wrench again, and he grinds the arm. Sami wrenches and CHOPS, and Orton goes to the corner. Sami CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! The fans “WOO~” but the ref counts. Orton pushes past Sami, bails out of the ring, and he is pretty red already. Sami builds speed but he fakes Orton out with the Arabian Press! The fans fire up and Orton has to admit that was good.
Orton goes up the steps and steps back into the ring. The fans rally, Orton and Sami tie up, and Orton puts Sami in the corner. Orton lets off slowly, but he pokes Sami in the eyes! The fans boo but Orton UPPERCUTS! And UPPERCUTS! But Sami pokes Orton in the eyes! The ref caught that one and reprimands Sami. Sami TOSSES Orton out, goes to the apron, but Orton YANKS Sami down! Sami hits off the apron, and Orton reels him in, DESK BACK SUPLEX! Sami writhes and Orton rolls into the ring, just to refresh the count. Fans want that “One More Time!” and Orton agrees! DESK BACK SUPLEXÂ again!
Sami writhes more and whatever monitor wasn’t busted, they’re busted now! Orton leaves Sami behind for a moment while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Orton goes out to fetch Sami, but Sami fights off a third back suplex! Orton kicks low, brings Sami over, but Sami blocks the smack off the steel steps! Orton sputters, Sami stalks him, and Sami decides to give him some payback! But Orton ROCKS Sami first! Orton SMACKS Sami off the desk, puts him in the ring, and covers, TWO! Sami stays in this but Orton looms over him. Sami rises, Orton puts him in a corner, and Orton fires body shots. Orton climbs up and rains down fists! Orton gets to eight before Sami fires back! Sami has Orton in another corner, climbs up, and Sami rains down a fast TEN!
Sami huffs ‘n’ puffs and CHOPS! Orton is stinging but Sami CHOPS him again! Sami wrenches, ELBOW BREAKERS, and whips! Orton reverses, Sami hits buckles hard, and Sami falls in a heap. Orton dusts himself off and looms over Sami again. Orton stomps Sami’s hand! Sami writhes and clutches his finger. Orton stomps Sami’s foot, ten the other foot! And then the other hand! Sami sits up, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Orton CLUBS away on Sami’s chest! Orton DECKS Sami, the fans cheer, and Orton brings Sami up. Orton whips, Sami goes up and over, and Sami LARIATS Orton down! The fans fire up again as Sami rises!
Sami goes to the corner, Orton runs up, but Sami ELBOWS him! Sami goes up, AX HANDLES, and the fans fire up more! Orton takes a swing, but Sami slips around! Orton fights the Blue Thunder, then LARIATS! And LARIATS! Orton dodges Sami to SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up while Sami goes to the apron. Orton drags Sami in through the ropes, and DRAPING DDTS! The fans fire up as Orton hears those voices! Orton watches Sami rise, but then Sami bails out! The fans are torn but Sami is smart to avoid what was coming. Orton goes out to fetch Sami, SMACKS him off the desk, and then back suplexes, only for Sami to lands out!
Sami CLUBS Orton, and hits a DESK BACK SUPLEX on Orton! Sami puts Orton in the ring, goes to a corner, and the fans fire up as Orton rises. Orton runs in, Sami dodges, and Orton POSTS himself! Sami runs corner to corner, HELLUVA- SNAP POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Sami survives and Orton seethes. “This is Awesome!” as Sami goes back to a corner. Orton runs back in and he LARIATS! Orton runs but Sami follows! But Orton dodges the Helluva Kick! Sami gets stuck on the to rope, frees himself, and hobbles into an RK- NO! BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Orton survives and the fans fire up again!
“This is Awesome!” as Sami drags Orton to the drop zone. Sami goes up the corner, Orton stands and he gets under the leap! R K- NO, Sami SLAMS Orton down! And then HELLUVA- RKO!!! Orton crawls to the cover, Orton wins!!
Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
Sami fought his heart out, but the Viper still strikes! Orton is going back to back in KOTR finals, but will he win the crown this time?
Nia Jax is here!
Grand Rapids boos as The Irresistible Force goes to the ring. She grabs the mic dot say, “You know what’s crazy? Tiffany Stratton approached me to be under my wing, because she knew exactly what I could do for her. And look, she’s thriving! And what kind of thanks did I get for it? She betrayed me. She has MY title!” But wait, here comes Tiffy! Grand Rapids cheers as the WWE Women’s Champion has the mic to tell Nia, “You’re like that toxic ex I just can’t get away from. News flash: get over it! You make excuse after excuse, but when are you just gonna admit that maybe I’m just better than you?”
The fans cheer and Tiff heads to the ring. Nia says yeah, okay, if Tiff is so much better, then give Nia a rematch without kicking a chair into her face. Tiff says if Nia’s so desperate for a match, it is her lucky day! She made it official for next week: Tiff VS Nia! And Tiff will have more fun adding more scars to that “five head” of Nia’s. Because it won’t just be a regular match. It will be Last Woman Standing! Nia takes a swing but Tiff dodge! Tiff fires off, kicks low, and runs up, but into a POP-UP HEADBUTT! And then Nia drops a leg, brother! Nia holds up the belt and soaks up the heat. Nia thinks about leaving, but decides to add on! ANOTHER leg drop, brother!
The fans boo but Nia says that’s not enough! Nia tells Wade & Joe that she’s taking the title! But wait! NAOMI is here, with a ref! Is she doing it!? Is she doing it?! But Nia YANKS Naomi out! Naomi tells her back off! Nia doesn’t, Naomi shoves her, but Nia still grabs at her! Tiff DROPKICKS Naomi onto Nia! Tiff avoids a cash-in because Nia was in the way, but is she setting herself up for failure with that extreme title match?
Charlotte Flair VS Chelsea Green w/ The Secret Her-vice!
The Queen was denied her crown, but she’s not even angry at Alexa Bliss, the one who took that opportunity from her. She instead looks to humble the Hot Mess that claims she would be queen if her demands were met. Who vents their frustrations and comes away with the win?
SmackDown returns and Charlotte makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans actually cheer on Chelsea. Alba distracts Charlotte and Chelsea sucker punches her! The ref reprimands but Chelsea SMACKS Charlotte off the mat again and again! Chelsea salutes, but Charlotte CHOPS! Chelsea KNEES low, whips, but Charlotte goes up and out at the corner. Charlotte BOOTS Chelsea away, avoids Alba and KICKS her! Chelsea runs up, Charlotte RAMS her, and then Charlotte climbs up. CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Chelsea scrambles away and Charlotte runs up, but into an ELBOW! Charlotte GAMANGIRIS!
Charlotte snapmares, Chelsea distracts the ref, and Alba grabs Charlotte by the hair! Alba HOTSHOTS Charlotte and Chelsea hits a BACKSTABBER! Cover, TWO! Chelsea is furious but Charlotte stays in this, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Chelsea hops onto Charlotte for a SLEEPER! The fans rally, but Charlotte hits a BACKPACK SENTON! Charlotte is free, Chelsea runs back up, but Charlotte gives her a BACKBREAKER and BUCKLE SHOT! Chelsea falls back, Charlotte huffs ‘n’ puffs and runs up to fire hands! The fans fire up as Charlotte CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS! Charlotte CHOPS again, then clinches for an EXPLODER! And a kip up! The fans fire up and Charlotte salutes to poke fun at Chelsea. Charlotte runs, dodges, and handsprings to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Chelsea survives but Charlotte stays on her by going for a leg.
Alba gets on the apron, so Charlotte BOOTS her down! The fans cheer, but Charlotte turns around into a ROUGH RYDER! Cover, TWO!! Charlotte survives and Chelsea is furious! Chelsea takes off her face protector and drags Charlotte up. Chelsea has the arms, turns Charlotte, but Charlotte shoves her away! Charlotte dodges and SPEARS! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea survives but Charlotte has the leg! FIGURE- CRADLE!! TWO!! Charlotte has the leg again, FIGURE FOUR! And the bridge for the FIGURE EIGHT!! Chelsea TAPS, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
But then Piper Niven SENTONS onto Charlotte!! Alba storms in, she and Piper mug Charlotte, but here comes Alexa! She RAMS into Piper, she ROCKS Alba, then she catches Chelsea! Charlotte LARIATS Alba out while Alexa hits a TWISTED SISTER ABIGAIL! And then Charlotte BOOTS Piper down! Charlotte and Alexa look at each other, and despite what either one thinks, maybe they both need the other after all. Alexa offers the handshake, but Charlotte walks right past Alexa. Alexa lets that slide, but will Charlotte come around soon enough?
Solo Sikoa talks with JC Mateo.
Why is JC taping up? Uh, duh, he’ll take out Jacob. No, Solo is going out there alone to talk with Jacob. Solo was the only one that Jacob would listen to. Jacob needs Solo. Solo will smooth things over. JC accepts that, but Solo does say that JC should stay ready. Solo is covering his bases, but will he need the Imperial Unit to put down the Samoan Werewolf? Or will it all be alright between them all?
Solo Sikoa heads to the ring.
SmackDown returns as the former Tribal Chief makes his way out, and Grand Rapids boos. Solo grabs the mic, takes a moment, and says, “Alright, Jacob. I’m out here in the middle of the ring, all alone, with open arms, willing to talk to you face to face. I feel terrible about what happened. So if you’re back there, come on out so we can clear the air.” Jacob Fatu makes his entrance and Grand Rapids cheers! Fatu holds up the United States Championship before he steps into the ring, and he has a mic of his own. The fans cheer on “FATU! FATU!” and Solo says he didn’t come out here to fight him, okay? He’s not here for that.
Solo wants to make it clear to Fatu that he loves him, always has loved him, no matter what. One thing Solo learned from being Tribal Chief is how to love family and how to take care of them. That’s all he’s trying to do. Families fight all the time. They fight, they argue, they forgive, and then they move forward. So they should move forward together, Jacob. Move forward as one. The fans boo that, but Solo says nobody saw the potential in Jacob except Solo. Nobody wanted Jacob here in the WWE, except Solo. That is why Solo brought Fatu here and gave him the chance to change his life and put food on his family’s table.
And why did Solo do that? Because Solo loves Jacob. He does. And to be honest, Solo doesn’t have anybody else. Fatu isn’t sure about that, but Solo says all he has is Fatu. And he’s all Solo needs. So come back to the family, and even if Jacob doesn’t say those four words, Solo will. Solo will say it for him, to him, loud enough so everybody can hear it! Solo tells Jacob, “I love you, Jacob.” The fans boo, they don’t trust this. Fatu paces as he thinks on that. “So you love me, huh?” Solo nods yes. So this is what it comes down to, huh? Solo loves Fatu? The way Fatu sees things, Solo has been using Fatu! Solo has been using Fatu to gain power, to fight his battles, and to stay Tribal Chief.
Hell, Solo brought Fatu in so Fatu could bring Solo fame! Solo brought Fatu in because he thought Fatu would bring him gold! Is that all this is about? Fame? Gold? Power? SOLO, LOOK AT HIM! Solo looks up from the floor while the fans cheer Fatu on. Fatu tells Solo that ever since he won the US Championship, Solo is the one that’s been acting different. And maybe Fatu isn’t the problem. Fatu just figured it out! The problem… is this. The problem is the US Championship. Fatu sets it down between him and Solo, and he says if this is what he thinks it is, then just fight him for it! Fight Fatu for the title! The fans fire up for that!
And Solo, Fatu will only warn you one time: If you ever think about coming this way, you know what Fatu is about! You know what’s poppin’ with Fatu, blood! And you know Jacob Fatu is all gas, no brakes with it! YADADADA- SOLO TAKES A SWING! Fatu blocks the spike and he HEADBUTTS! JC Mateo rushes out here! Fatu HEADBUTTS him, too! But Solo CHOP BLOCKS the legs! The fans boo but JC & Solo mug Fatu! But then here comes JIMMY USO! The fans fire up as #BigJim slides in, dodges Solo, and SUPERKICKS JC! And then he SUPERKICKS Solo! But JC LARIATS Jimmy down! JC HAMMERS Jimmy and Solo has him put Jimmy in the corner.
The fans boo but Solo tells Jimmy that he should’ve chosen Solo’s side, not Jacob’s! But speaking of, Fatu is up! The fans fire up as Fatu BODY CHECKS JC! Then he SUPERKICKS Solo! Solo is in a corner, Fatu fires off on him, HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT! SUPERKICK for JC! HIP ATTACK for Solo! The fans are fired up for the Samoan Werewolf, and he locks eyes with Jimmy. Jimmy came to Fatu’s rescue, Fatu just saved him, so Fatu goes up, up, only for Solo to bail out! No Best Moonsaults here in Grand Rapids, but will Fatu cut Solo down soon enough?
Bronson Reed w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker VS LA Knight!
The Wise Man warned, or rather threatened, the Mega Star that he should just cut and run, but that’s not how he does things. Knight is ready to fight, but will he survive a battle with Auszilla? Or is a Tsunami about wipe out LA?
Wait, Knight doesn’t enter from the stage! He enters from the crowd! And he POSTS Bron! The fans fire up as Knight evens things out! He TOSSES Bronson out, throws his vest at him, and Bronson snarls. Bronson has Bron stand down, and says, “Tonight, I kill him.” Bronson steps into the ring, the bell sounds, and Knight fires off! The fans fire up as Knight fires hands, but Bronson puts him in the corner. Knight ELBOWS back, Knight fires more hands, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips but Bronson blocks! Bronson whips Knight to a corner, runs up, but Knight dodges! Bronson POSTS himself, and Knight stomps a mudhole in!
The fans rally, the ref counts, and Knight goes corner to corner, but into a fireman’s carry! Knight slips down to sunset flip, but Bronson stays up! Bronson jumps but Knight avoids the hip drop! Then Knight basement BOOTS! The fans fire up and Knight storms up on Bronson. Bronson TOSSES Knight to the apron, but Knight slingshots back in! Bronson catches Knight to a fireman’s carry! Knight flails free and he RAMS Bronson into a corner! But Bronson holds ropes to deny the Jump Neckbreaker! Bronson runs but Knight avoids the senton! The fans fire up as Knight goes up, up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! That’s a Steiner move!
The fans fire up and spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT!” but Bronson bails out! Knight runs to WRECK Bronson with a dropkick! Knight goes back up, springboards, CROSSBODY to the ramp! The fans fire up with Knight and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Bronson has Knight up top. The fans rally as Knight fights back with body shots! Knight ROCKS Bronson, ROCKS him again, and ROCKS him again! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Bronson finally falls and Knight adjusts position. “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BOX JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Bronson survives and Knight is rather stunned while Heyman is relieved. Knight aims, kicks, but Bronson denies the BFT! HEADBUTT, then a fireman’s carry! DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Knight survives the “Jagged Edge” DVD but Bronson brings him right up. Bronson reels Knight in and says thumbs down.
Bronson lifts Knight up, but Knight flips the bomb into a DDT! The fans fire up but Bron barks at the apron! Knight DECKS the dog, tells Heyman to get the same, but Bronson runs up! Knight DUMPS Bronson out, builds speed, but BRON SPEARS!!
Winner: LA Knight, by disqualification
The fans boo but Bron handed Knight the win with that one. Bronson stands Knight up so Bron can build speed and SUPER SPEAR!! Grand Rapids is torn but plenty of fans bark. And now Bronson goes up!? TSUNAMI!! Bronson goes up again, the refs hurry out here, but TSUNAMI AGAIN!! The fans want another, so Bron scares the refs off to let Bronson go back up! THIRD TSUNAMI!!! Have Rollins’ rooks just broken Knight into pieces? Is this a message to everyone that no one can stop the vision?
Jacob Fatu speaks.
“Yeah, c’mon on widdit! I just spoke to the man, and you know the man makes everything possible here on SmackDown! So next week, next week on Saturday, me ‘n’ you, Solo! Night of Champions, mano a mano, I’m about to dog walk yo’ ass for the US Championship! Solo, you better get in where you fit in. Cuz if you don’t, then baby, it’s ’bout to be all gas, no breaks with it. Yadadadada mean?” The Samoan Werewolf will get to sink his teeth into Solo, but will he stay golden through it all?
John Cena VS Ron Killings!
The Undisputed WWE Champion was the exact opposite of grateful for R-Truth saving him from Randy Orton at Backlash, and he doubled down when Ron tried to show him the truth at Saturday Night’s Main Event. So, if Cena doesn’t want the Truth, he’ll get someone who knows about ruthless aggression! Will Ron Killings bring an early end to the retirement tour? Or will Cena continue to ruin wrestling for everyone else?
SmackDown returns as Cena makes his entrance. The fans sing “JOHN CENA SUCKS~!” despite him wearing the Detroit Pistons colors. Cena makes Mark Nash give the “proper” introduction: “He is the Greatest of All Time, the Never Seen Seventeen, gracing Grand Rapids with his presence one final time… He is the Last Real Champion, JOHN CENA~!” The fans boo, the bell rings, and Truth stares at Cena while Cena smirks hearing the “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Truth TACKLES Cena! He fires off hands but Cena bails out! So Truth goes out to DECK Cena! “What’s up!?” “WHAT’S UP!” Truth has Cena at the desk and SMACKS him off it!
Truth ROCKS Cena again, and shakes his hand out from hitting so hard. Truth SMACKS Cena off the apron, storms in after him, and whips him to a corner. Cena hits buckles hard and falls to the mat! The fans continue to duel while Truth keeps his eyes on Cena. Truth storms up on Cena while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Truth stands Cena up, whips corner to corner again, and Cena hits buckles hard! Cena sputters, Truth looms over him, and Truth ROCKS Cena! Cena ROCKS Truth! They go back and forth with haymakers, and then Truth dodges to SHOULDER TACKLE! Truth still uses Cena’s own moves against him, and that includes the SPIN-OUT BOMB! Truth raises his hand and Grand Rapids joins in! “You Can’t See Me!” But then Cena bails out so Truth can’t hit him! Truth is annoyed, the fans give thumbs down, but here comes Truth. Cena ELBOWS him down! Cena drags Truth up, POSTS him, and he brings Truth back into the ring.
Cena HEADBUTTS Truth, CHOKES him on the ropes, but stops as the ref counts. Cena stomps away on Truth, then runs to KICK Truth in the back! Cena talks trash, then he runs to SHOULDER TACKLE! Cena takes his time, knowing it is what the fans want. Truth rises up, Cena runs to SHOULDER TACKLE again! Cena watches Truth rise again, gets around him, SPIN-OUT BOMB! And Cena raises his hand, reveling in the cheers and jeers. “You Can’t See Me!” SmackDown returns to single picture for the FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Then Cena fireman’s carries, but Truth slips free! THESZ PRESS! And fast hands!
The fans fire up and Truth has Cena in a corner. Truth runs to STINGER SPLASH! Cena tumbles out and grabs the belt! Cena doesn’t care about this match anymore, he doesn’t need to take this! Truth says hold up! Truth runs Cena down and fires hands on the ramp! The fans fire up but Cena CLOBBERS Truth with the belt!!
Winner: Ron Killings, by disqualification
Cena wants to get another shot, but wait! PUNK IS HERE! Cena runs away into the ring, and he catches Punk as Punk slides in! The fans boo Cena but he huffs ‘n’ puffs. Cena drags Punk up, but Punk fires hands in return! Punk DECKS Cena, grabs the belt, and he holds it up! The fans cheer, and Punk aims, but Cena LOW BLOWS! Cena has a sinister smile as he grabs the belt. BELT SHOT for Punk!! The fans boo even more, but Cena decides to up the ante! Cena brings out a table! The fans cheer, everyone loves tables! Cena puts the table in the ring, then watches Punk sputter around. Cena sets the table up while the fans rally behind Punk.
Punk stands but Cena has the belt again! BELT SHOT!! Cena drags Punk up, fireman’s carries, ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENTÂ through the table!! Cena made Punk snap into a Slim Jim, and then he grabs a mic. Cena laughs at Punk, and then sits up on the corner. “Punk… As you lay there in your most uncomfortable…” Cena pretends the mic cut out, taps it, and then says, “Somebody’s afraid of what I’m gonna say.” Cena grins and the fans boo as Cena flips the iconic “Pipebomb” moment on it’s head. “As you lay there in your most uncomfortable, I hope you can listen. I hope you can digest.
“Because before I leave here in six months with that WWE Championship, I gotta get a whole lotta stuff off my chest. First thing’s first, I don’t hate you. I don’t even dislike you. I like you. I like you more than anyone you ever shared a locker room with, that’s for sure. I hate this idea of you. This idea that you’re the Best int he World. You’re not. I’M the Greatest of All Time.” Grand Rapids is a bit torn on that statement, but Cena says Punk is better than Cena at one thing: You’re the best BS artist in the world. Oh no, kiddos~! John Cena just dropped a curse word! That means the show is off the rails! Hey, Stu, shoot this. Hi~! “I’m breaking the forth wall! HAHA!”
Cena then says the truth is, Punk… Cena is jealous of you. Cena is jealous that Punk has conned the fans into believing the myth that Punk is the Best in the World. Oh how they chant for Punk! Which they literally do right now. Hell, the fans even sing for Punk now. But they don’t believe a damn word you say. Because Punk changes his values as much as Cena changes his shirts! Punk is just a loud mouthed opportunist who steps on the necks of those who actually work hard if it gets him ahead. Oh, hey, look, another cameraman! “Hi, Claudio Castagnoli! Hey, Nic Nemeth! Hey, Matt Cardona! How’re you guys doing?”
The fans can’t believe Cena is going this far but Cena is loving it! “He’s heating up! He’s on fire! And there’s nobody back there that’s gonna cut my mic to save your ass, cuz I’m your only friend! Remember who gave you the stage for your pipebomb, pal! And what’ve you done with it since then, huh? You just regurgitated the same five microphone moves of doom. You’re promo potato salad, pal. Hey, you’re no longer the Voice of the Voiceless, you’re a friggin’ millionaire despite yourself. You’re not a punk, you’re a capitalist! And you’re not against TKO, dude, you are Mr. TKO. Cuz they knocked your balls technically off your body.
“Your tweets are strong, but your actions are weak. And in Saudi Arabia, you’re gonna face some loud, loud music when I finally prove to the world that each and every day, day in, day out, no days off for 25 YEARS, I have been the Greatest of All Time!” The fans cheer that a bit more now, to Cena’s surprise. “See, they know. And they know that you were the Best in the World… for seven minutes, 14 years ago. And if after Night of Champions, you’re still delusional enough to believe that you’re the Best in the World, well… I guess it’s a small world after all. You’re welcome, Grand Rapids.” The fans cheer, and Cena lets the world hear it.
Cena tells Punk to bring his A Game to Night of Champions. If Grand Rapids is any indication, the mood is starting to change. Refs finally appear to check on Punk, Cena says no, that’s fine. Punk needs to rest up for his big title match. Get a good shot of this: Best in the World VS Greatest of All Time, for THE most coveted prize in sports entertainment, THE WWE Undisputed Championship! And Cena knows the fans will sing and chant, but he also knows even the idiots are smart enough to see the truth: The Champ is Here. And USA Network, keep the extra two and half minutes. He doesn’t need a bomb to blow the “mother fudging” building.
Oh, and thanks, Punk, for letting Cena rip off your best promo just to make you look even more foolish. Cena finally drops the mic and he raises the belt up again. If the proverbial tables have turned this drastically, is there no saving WWE from losing its north star championship?
My Thoughts:
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 6.19.25
Are we going to start trending upwards with Slammiversary to build toward?
Last week’s episode was lacking in ring work but had decent story moments and segments. Starting the build to Slammiversary we can either launch nicely or things can always get worse. Jason Hotch and KC Navarro are the real shining stars of the last few months, so lets hope once they get over this Leon Slater idiot ship, they can push X Division wrestlers with actual talent for pro wrestling and not just flippy charisma vacuums.
Oh and let’s not forget, it is the episode they celebrate the 23rd anniversary of TNA! TWENTY – THREE!! Somewhere PCO hates this.
.@Kelly_WP is back in TNA Wrestling and has a message for TNA Knockouts World Champion @mashaslamovich!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZKKuL pic.twitter.com/tnm4TIuPUz
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Ratings:
- Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers: EY wins via Piledriver – ** 3/4
- Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge: Elegantos win via Rarefied Air – ***
- Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man: HTM wins via Cradle – *
- Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams: Elijah wins via Highwayman’s Farewell – ***
Results:
Sami Callihan vs Eric Young w/Losers
Sami knocks them all off the apron before the bell rings, he levels the loser children, finds a chair, attacks EY but EY counters and this is the excuse to use weapons since the bell didn’t ring yet. EY tries to break Sami’s hand on the steps with the chair, but Sami moves, throws EY back in the ring, bell rings and EY hits a Belly to Belly suplex for two. They slug it out, Sami goes for Headbutts, then Sami wants to run the ropes but a loser trips him, distracts long enough for EY to knock him out of the ring and loser children swarm as loser children do. EY does the classic, throw back out for losers to attack while EY grabs and distracts the ref. Sami is selling a few lame attacks from the losers like he got shot. It’s an excessive sell, so it’s honestly a dumb transitional moment.
EY levels Sami, Lariat into Scoop Slam, looks for the Macho Elbow but Sami hits the ropes to crotch EY. Sami Superplex time, but EY bites the face to make Sami drop, EY jumps at him but eats a straight right hand. Cactus Driver, but no, EY tries his Piledriver…they both gouge eyes at the same time, Sami catches an EY charge into a Flatliner as they’re both down…for…reasons? The selling in this match seems…poorly timed and kinda stupid. Hard Irish Whip, EY Flair Flips the corner, levels Sami, Macho Elbow for 2.9! EY threatens to hit the ref, but then goes to mad dog commentary. EY then wants to attack fans…he’s more unhinged than World Elite EY. Sami gives him the old Dick Twist into a Stunner but only for two! Losers try to distract, first one gets taken out, second one uses a chair, EY hits the Piledriver on Sami, EY wins.
I feel like this is gonna continue for a few weeks since it wasn’t a clean win.Â
Mustafa Ali’s group comes out, and I refuse to say the name because it’s dumb and they’re already fraying at the seams. Ali wants an apology session, Tasha and Hotch apologize to him but Skyler bites back and refuses, even shoved Ali. So Ali challenges him to a “Call to Arms” match. What in the hell is a Call to Arms match?Â
Lei Ying Lee & Masha Slamovich vs The Elegance Clique w/M & Personal Concierge
ASH does her borderline racist fake karate before Lei stares her down and tags in Heather. Heather avoids Lei, Lei throws a few Tornado Kicks to make a point and Heather tags out. Heather being 4’8″ helps her here. Concierge says “There’s no Karate in wrestling”. ASH, Lei and Masha are in the ring, ASH is trying to decide who she wants to face, but the Concierge google translated it and hands it to ASH, before the face team rocks ASH. Masha lifts up Lei and Lei does the Liu Kang Bicycle Kick, steering more into her Mortal Kombat aesthetic. Senton off the apron from Lei and Masha dives into the pile, the comedy heels are getting leveled. We go to commercial and come back with Lei getting Double Teamed but she spins it into a weird Neckbreaker..but can’t tag out just yet. Lei blocks Heather, Enzuigiri, simultaneous tag, Masha is Yakuza kicks for all and the 2 for 1 Lariat/DDT special. Near fall, but Masha goes for murder, but Heather breaks it, Rocket Launcher/Code Breaker from Elegance but Lei breaks up the pin. ASH tries to intimidate Lei with her fake Karate before throwing her out of the ring. Heather hits Lei with a handful of Glitter and then bounces her face off the post. Masha tries to stop ASH, Kelly’s music distracts Masha, Rarefied Air gives ASH the win.
Santino comes out and GOD DAMMIT no one wants to see Tommy Dreamer fight Mance Warner…that’s a useless thing. Pivot away…no one wants this. Oh no, now we have to listen to Steph talk too. Okay it seems to be a pivot, thankfully. Steph and Mance talk shit, Dreamer says something about Something is gonna happen…and Jake Something comes out. So…I guess we’re gonna build him up for 2 months and then job him out for 6 before he fucks off to his home galaxy or whatever?Â
.@indi_hartwell has a run in with Tessa Blanchard!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/cF0F1ZLikj pic.twitter.com/I6UCCk2fAG
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) June 20, 2025
Really wish Indi just opened with the Billy Butcher classic of, “Oi Cunt!” – but this wasn’t bad.Â
Eddie Edwards & JDC w/Alisha & Brian Myers vs Matt Cardona & Home Town Man
I hate… Cardona so much more now. Heel reasons for Cardona…go away heat for Deaner.
JDC wants the Home Town Man to start…and Deaner does his stupid Flip Flop and Fly, Cardona tags in, JDC is eating some offense, Cardona wants the Reboot, JDC powders, Cardona Dives but then Lish and the general numbers catch up to Cardona. Eddie is legal, and now they isolate Cardona with some decent tandem work and isolation. This turns into kind of a schmoz, lots of silly spots, near falls and then Home Town doofus gets the cradle pinfall on Eddie.
Whenever Deaner is involved I can’t be asked to care. The System beats Cardona and Deaner down, but Eddie did eat a pin. Which is embarrassing not even for work reasons, like it’s just sad.
Champion’s Challenge: The Rascalz, Joe Hendry, Leon Slater & Elijah vs The Kaiba Boys, Moose, Steve Maclin & Trick Williams
Elijah and Nic start things off, slow push off, arm wring, top wristlock, simple chain wrestling start. Nic breaks the chain and hits a Dropkick, Elijah runs the ropes and hits a Diving Lariat and starts the Rope Walk. Nic seems far to awake and alert for that move then, I hate how people pull that off too early. Wentz gets tagged in, Nic tags in Maclin who wasn’t looking for a tag, but him and Wentz have a nice clash, Trey tags in, they try to double him, but they pause and look at each other. Maclin asks for a tag, no one tags him so he Chops Ryan to tag him in and throws him in.
The little nod to Maclin and Rascalz history and the fact the faces realize Maclin isn’t a piece of shit. A little MCMG homage tandem attacks on Ryan, Wentz punctuates with the Handspring Knee Lift, Ryan tags out to Trick. Trick and Wentz go back and forth, Rascalz have Trick eating offense, Moose tries to slow things down, both Trick and Moose powder, Rascalz Double Golden Triangle Moonsaults. Trey gets tripped by Nic, Moose hits Lights Out, but there’s no referee so it’s a little chaotic.
Out of the commercial things are controlled kinda and we see a simultaneous tag to Moose and Leon. Leon comes out hot, level Moose with a Leg Lariat, attacks Nic Nemeth, attacks Ryan, and then Moose hits Leon with the Stun Gun. Moose looks to tag in Maclin but Maclin jumps off the apron. Trick takes the tag, keeps control, Trick forcibly tags in Maclin but Ryan tags himself in and pulls Leon to the Champions’ corner, Nic tags in and isolates Leon, with the Kaibas quick tagging and keeping Leon down.
Moose tags in, tries to Suplex Leon about four times but Leon stops it then counters the Suplex. Moose tries to cut him off, but the Champions distract the ref so the ref can’t see Leon tag out. Nic and Moose doubling up and Leon is the bump guy of this last portion of the match. Big Uranage from Moose…Moose looks for Lights Out but Small Package almost ruined things, Body Scissors Cradle, GAME CHANGER! Moose looks to hit a Jacknife Powerbomb but Leon turns it into a DDT. Maclin and Ryan start fighting, Nic Superkicks Maclin, Hendry and Nic tag in, Hendry is a house of fire. Sack of Shits for everyone! Nic, Ryan, there’s a pause when Hendry is face to face with Trick and Trick gets Uppercuts first then Sack of Shit! Standing Ovation on Nic, but Ryan blocks, Kaibas try a tandem attack but Hendry Lariats them both. Elijah tags in and is the maestro of the crowd and chopping Ryan to some fun. Ryan goes for a Polish Hammer but eats the Knee Lift. Signature spam time…
Ryan tries to use the International title but Maclin grabs the title away from Ryan, clocks Nic, Standing Ovation into the Highwayman’s Farewell. Champions lose!
Overall Score: 4/10
Well this was a rough one boys and girls. Sami and EY was just an overbooked shitshow, Lei Ying Lee is unfortunately in a spot where it’s obvious TNA has no clue how to use her, the Elegantos are the New Beautiful People, and I’m not mad at that. But you need to space out your goofball crap. You can’t have Elegance Clique, Home Town Moron and Santino in 3 consecutive segments. And if anyone goes “it was 3 out of 4” that’s doesn’t lessen my point, the beauty of Pro Wrestling being a variety show is…FOR VARIETY! When the lead match feels stupid because of bad pacing, poor selling and overbooking with two losers, it feels like a useless match with idiots, then comedy, followed by more comedy…you see how that’s literally NOT VARIETY.
Figure it out seriously. This was a disappointing episode. If you’re a casual viewer than it’s just chalk for TNA doing cringe and borderline goof crap since they’ve always steered a little more into the carny than other companies. But this show was…where’s Jisoo and Jenny? I feel like I need that gif:
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