Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE NXT Results & Report! (1/17/23)

We’re heading for vengeance!

Published

9 months ago

January 17, 2023

Steven Mitchell

2023 is only gearing up for NXT!

Bron Breakker is STILL NXT Champion after New Year’s Evil, but he isn’t done with Grayson Waller! Vengeance Day is coming, and so is a STEEL CAGE!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Axiom & Apollo Crews VS Carmelo Hayes & Trick Williams; Axiom & Apollo win.
Alba Fyre VS Sol Ruca; Sol wins.
Josh Briggs & Brooks Jensen w/ Fallon Henley VS Gallus; Gallus wins.
Thea Hail w/ Chase U VS Valentina Feroz; Thea wins.
Tyler Bate VS Javier Bernal; Bate wins.
Roxanne Perez & Lyra Valkyria VS Toxic Attraction; Roxie & Lyra win.

PLAY BY PLAY

Axiom & Apollo Crews VS Carmelo Hayes & Trick Williams!

The Undeniable Truth and the man with foresight team up to take on two men who can’t help but run their mouths. Granted, Melo backs up a lot of his talk, but Trick has a lot of talk to back up. Will the Trick Melo Gang be able to pull this off when the numbers aren’t in their favor?

The teams sort out and Axiom starts against Trick. They circle, tie up, and Axiom waistlocks. Trick wrenches out but Axiom slips away. They go again, Axiom wrenches Trick’s arm, has the wristlock, but Trick slips through to wrench back. Trick cranks the wristlock, but Axiom rolls, handsprings and dropkicks! Fans cheer but Trick huffs and puffs. They tie up, Trick puts Axiom on the ropes, and he lets off as the ref counts. But Trick swings on Axiom! Axiom dodges the sucker punch, headlocks Trick, but Trick powers out. Trick runs Axiom over hard! Trick does a shoulder shimmy, then he drags Axiom up to run him over again!

Trick whips, but Axiom dodges, only to run into a pop-up HAYMAKER! Trick drags Axiom up, bumps him off buckles, and tags in Melo. Fans are torn as Trick Melo Gang double whip. Axiom reverses, kicks and CHOPS, then he knuckle locks Trick to go up, up and DOUBLE TAKEDOWN! Fans fire up as Axiom kips up and focuses on Melo. Axiom springboards to arm-drag and ENZIGURI! Axiom drags Melo over, tags in Apollo, and they wrench Melo’s arm to CLUB the shoulder. Apollo whips, Melo reverses but Apollo goes up and over. Apollo handsprings and drops and dropkicks Melo down! Fans fire up but Trick runs in, to get a dropkick!

Apollo sees Trick Melo Gang coming at him, and he DOUBLE OVERHEAD ARM-DRAGS! Apollo whips Melo, scoops but Melo slips free. Apollo hits a headlock takeover but Melo slips free to get the legs. Apollo kicks Melo away but Melo BOOTS him down! Melo keeps moving, tilt-o-whirl FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Fans rally for Melo as he brings Apollo up. Melo headlocks, Apollo powers out and Axiom tags in. Axiom ROCKS Melo, feeds to Apollo’s KNEE, then Axiom GERMAN SUPLEXES! Melo flounders out of the ring, Trick goes to check on him, but Apollo picks up Axiom to TOSS him! Direct hit and down goes Trick Melo Gang!

NXT goes picture in picture as fans fire up for Apollo & Axiom. Axiom fetches Melo and puts him in the ring. Axiom steps in but Melo dodges! Axiom comes back, takes Melo down and has a toehold. Melo keeps his shoulders up, Axiom drags him around to stomp him! Axiom brings Melo up at the ropes but Melo throws hands in return! Tag to Trick and they mug Axiom. Trick talks trash to Apollo then whips Axiom, for a LARIAT! Trick drags Axiom back up, scoops, and SLAMS Axiom down! Cover, TWO! Trick pushes Axiom to the corner, tags Melo, and they mug Axiom some more. Melo drags Axiom up to scoop, but a little too hard, he basically throws Axiom!

Melo talks trash on Axiom, but Axiom CHOPS him! Axiom drags Melo back to tag in Apollo. They double whip Melo, drop toehold and basement dropkick! Cover, TWO! Apollo facelocks Melo to keep him down and grind him into the mat. Melo endures, fights up, but Apollo shifts to a chinlock. Melo chinbars Apollo in return to turn things around onto him! But Apollo rolls and slips out to facelock right back! Apollo leans all his weight on the hold, but Melo rolls and gets a headlock. Apollo wrenches out and YANKS Melo’s arm, then tags Axiom. Axiom goes up to drop AX HANDLES on the arm! Axiom drags Melo around in a facelock, and he grinds Melo down.

Melo endures, fights up, and NXT returns to single picture. Fans rally as Melo suplexes, but Axiom cradle counters! TWO, and both men run, DOUBLE LARIATS wipe both men out! Fans fire up as Melo and Axiom both stir. Melo clamps onto Axiom with a waistlock, but Axiom switches. Apollo intercepts Trick, he and Axiom STEREO GERMAN SUPLEX! They hold on, fans rally for the GERMAN SUPLEXES! Melo and Trick hold hands to thwart the third round, and then they both standing switch. They STEREO BACK SUPLEX, but both Axiom and Apollo land on their feet! BOOT for Trick, Melo blocks Axiom’s to send it into Apollo!

Trick anchors Axiom, Melo hits the springboard LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Melo drags Axiom over, tags Trick, and they stomp Axiom down. Trick drags Axiom by his arm, bumps him off buckles, and then again, for a CHOP! Apollo coaches Axiom but Trick stomps away on Axiom! Trick drags Axiom up, tags Melo, and they mug Axiom again. Melo snapmares Axiom and clamps on a chinlock. Axiom endures, fans rally up, and Axiom fights up. Melo whips Axiom but Axiom uses that to SHOTGUN Trick! Axiom dodges Melo to hot tag Apollo! Apollo DECKS Trick, blocks Melo’s punch to mule kick and BOOT! And LARIAT!

Fans fire up and Apollo whips Melo to ropes, for the LEAPING LARIAT! Apollo kips up and fans fire up more! Apollo runs corner to corner to STINGER SPLASH! And then whip the other way, another STINGER SPLASH! And ENZIGURI! Melo staggers, and Apollo says he’s gonna raise it up. Apollo trophy lifts and DROPS Melo, to STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, Trick breaks it! But Axiom DECKS Trick! Trick slips out, but from the apron, GOLDEN RATIO! Melo goes to the top rope, he leaps at Apollo, but Apollo blocks the shot! Wheelbarrow, Melo tries to roll but Apollo sit son it! Apollo & Axiom win!!

Winners: Axiom & Apollo Crews, by pinfall

Melo is shocked! Not only did he miss, Apollo turned that turnover into points! But is this game between them far from over?

Tony D’Angelo and Channing Lorenzo walk the streets.

Stacks asks The Don why they’re here. Tony says it’s business. This bridge represents the beginning, and in some cases, the end. Tony drops in two dimes for the lost. Stacks says rats get what they deserve. Tony tells Stacks that he did a lot this past year. He proved he was a solid earner, and he’s taken bullet for Tony time and time again. That whole Dijak thing didn’t end how they wanted. Stacks apologizes and says he’d do anything for Tony. But if this is it, then Stacks is loyal until the end. Do what you gotta do. Stacks turns his back to The Done, and the Don… pats him on the shoulder. Stacks’ days as a soldier are over. Because now, it’s time to become the Underboss.

Wait, seriously? He means that? Yes, this is the family crest. Now that Stacks is a part of the family, he gets to wear it. Stacks thanks Tony and they hug it out. Tony says he’s proud of Stacks and gives him a kiss on the cheek. With Stacks moving up in the world, will the D’Angelo Family soon take over NXT?

Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.

McKenzie Mitchell is with the returning superstar and notes that last week, Tiffany made her return by calling out the entire roster. Tiffany stops her there, and says she didn’t ask for this interview, McKenzie did. So just get to the point. McKenzie wanted to share some footage showing that Tiffany’s return wasn’t received very well. Footage plays showing that sometime last night, Tiffany walked up to her private locker room, but it was locked! She banged on the door, and Indi Hartwell opened the door.

Tiffany asked Indi what she’s doing in there, and Indi said, “Oh, you think you deserve a locker room bigger than the one for the rest of the division, right?” Tiffany said, “Duh.” Well uh, it isn’t your locker room. You wanna call the rest of the division “pigs,” then you can dress somewhere else. Tiffany got upset, and didn’t even realize Indi still went to NXT. Back to the present, Tiffany is sure McKenzie enjoyed that. “That footage is disturbing and alarming. And did you see the way Indi was dressed? She could fit her entire wardrobe in a garbage bag. Same goes for the entire locker room. I guess I’ll just have to show them that there is only one superstar in the Women’s Division, and that’s me.”

Tiffany storms off, but will she soon realize she is anything but the Center of the Universe?

Toxic Attraction heads to the ring!

After a close call in the Women’s Battle Royal, Gigi Dolin & Jacy Jayne are BOTH contenders to the NXT Women’s Championship. Vengeance Day is going to see a Triple Threat, but that match can only be won by one woman. Gigi & Jacy both get mics and Jacy says they aren’t usually the ones to say “we told you so,” but… “WE TOLD YOU SO~!” They promised that the announcement would be, “Your winners,” and that is exactly what was said! Alicia, you did your job, kudos!

But the best part was watching all of the fans’ minds explode when it came down to the two of them! The fans mustered up every ounce of athleticism that they had just to get out of their chairs and elbows the people next to each other to say, “This is it! Toxic Attraction is done! They’re breaking up! History is unfolding right before our very eyes!” They were dueling between Jacy and Gigi, and for a hot sec, Jacy did try to eliminate Gigi. And vice-versa. But in the end, they’re a team! They think together, act together, and even fall to the floor at the same time together! There’s no animosity, jealousy or elephant in the room. Just Toxic Attraction doing what needs to be done.

And the revenge tour is in full effect! Full steam ahead to North Carolina! Vengeance Day, BABYYY~! And Roxanne Perez, they promise that you will regret the day you became champion. Because come February 4th, all Roxie will be hearing, “Your winners, and NEW~!” WAIT, here comes Lyra Valkyria! And all she is hearing are a couple of toxic crows demanding to be heard. IF it wasn’t for Cora Jade, Lyra would be flying to Vengeance Day while Gigi & Jacy would be at home, pinning the blame on each other. But it’s okay. Lyra will get her opportunity. She doesn’t see a champion when she looks at either of them!

Uh, sorry, Lyra, but where they hell did you come? You’re new, we get it. You dropped from the sky or whatever. But Gigi & Jacy have been champions for longer than Lyra’s even had her wings. Lyra will learn that Toxic Attraction runs things here in NXT. So nice try in wanting that Toxic Attraction rub, but back of the line ya go! Clearly, Lyra isn’t taking any of their shine. Lyra says all she sees are two women who know they can’t beat Roxanne by themselves, so they have to do it together. Well, they attack Lyra together! They stomp away, but here comes ROXIE! The champ runs off Gigi & Jacy!

Roxie helps Lyra stand up, Gigi & Jacy tell them to calm down. Roxie invites them back into the ring, but perhaps this showdown will have to wait for when Toxic Attraction wants it.

The Creed Brothers warm up backstage.

Brutus says it’s HIS turn with Jinder Mahal! Julius says he started this, he’s going to finish it. No, Julius had his chance! Brutus tells Ivy and Tatum that Julius is trying to take another turn when it’s Brutus’! Ivy says, “Here we go again.” And what’s she mean by that? Ivy is going to talk and they’re going to shut up and listen! What happened to them? What happened to The Creed Brothers who were motivated and disciplined? When they were locked in, they were the best tag team, with the titles to prove it. And now they’re after revenge, respect, retribution, whatever this is! But it’s far from where they need to be.

Indus Sher has global accolades, and Jinder is a former WWE World Champion. Ivy knew Julius was going to lose, and that the Creeds were gonna lose the tag match. Okay, so hypothetically, Ivy is right. She IS right!! Now grow a set and get back to being the Creeds, not whatever this is. Ivy storms off, and the brothers admit, she’s got a point. Will Diamond Mine be stronger than ever if they focus on gold?

Stevie Turner is live.

She says hey to chat and says she’s giving her reactions to last week’s Women’s Battle Royal. Cora Jade being out quick, she won’t get over that for some time. But what Stevie can’t get over is Kiana James saving Fallon Henley, and Elektra Lopez helping out Valentina Feroz. Forget alliances! This is every woman for herself! Sol’s Kofi-style save is definitely TikTok viral material, and Wendy Choo broke her fall with her own pillow. At least, until Lopez pulled the rug out from under her. Stevie loves the utter chaos, and no algorithm could put that draw together. But if Stevie had been in it, she would’ve won it. That day is approaching, so subscribe to the life of Stevie!

Alba Fyre VS Sol Ruca!

The match that Isla Dawn ruined is finally happening, though the Fire Keeper was a bit… aggressive in getting the Surfer Girl to agree to it. Will Fyre burn too hot for Sol? Or will Sol make sure not to wipe out in this big opportunity?

NXT returns and Sol makes her entrance. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, go around, and Fyre puts Sol in the corner. Sol breaks away and the two reset. Fans rally, they tie up, and Fyre waistlocks to SLAM Sol down! Fyre goes to a ghost pin, TWO! Sol drop toeholds and floats to a facelock. Fans applaud, Fyre wrenches out and WRINGS the arm, but Sol handsprings through! Sol comes back, Fyre waistlocks, and Fyre shoves Sol to a corner. Sol goes up and over, runs corner to corner and goes up to CROSBODY! Cover, TWO! Sol facelocks, backslides, TWO! Fyre escapes but Sol deflects the superkick!

Fans cheer the standoff and the two shake hands. Sol and Fyre tie up, but Fyre drops to get the leg. Fyre trips Solo, Sol kicks Fyre away and kips up. Sol runs in, Fyre sidesteps and hip tosses but Sol handsprings through! Sol hits a FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Sol keeps her cool, but Fyre is getting heated. Fyre throws body shots, she throws Sol down then stomps away! Fans rally for Sol while Fyre cools off. Fyre CLUBS Sol, drags her up, and suplexes to a GOURDBUSTER! Fyre PENALTY KICKS Sol, but Sol stays up, so Fyre KICKS her again! Fyre drags Sol up, Gory Especials, but Sol kicks to resist! Fyre turns Sol around to CHOP!

Fyre whips Sol to a corner, Sol reverses but Fyre goe sup. Sol catches Fyre, but Fyre slips free to SUPERKICK! Sol flounders to the corner and Fyre fires off forearms to the back! And stomps! The ref counts, Fyre backs off, but then Isla Dawn appears in the perch! She smiles at Fyre while Fyre scowls. Fyre goes back to Sol, but Sol goes up the corner, IMPLODING CUTTER!! Cover, Sol wins!!

Winner: Sol Ruca, by pinfall

Fyre got put out by the #SolSnatcher! Will Ruca be red hot after a win off the former NXT UK Women’s Champion?

Dijak speaks.

“Tony D’Angelo and his goon learned the hard way exactly what ‘street justice’ really means. Next up on the docket for me is Wes Lee.” Dijak isn’t back in NXT to make friends. He’s here to collect punitive damages. And beating Wes will fill Dijak’s bag with something he never had: championship gold. Dijak would offer Wes a plea bargain, but Wes is probably too stupid to take it. Wes has no chance of walking out of Charlotte, North Carolina with that title. “High justice awaits you. You have 18 days, Mr. Lee. Because for you it won’t be Vengeance Day, it’ll be judgment day!” Will Dijak give Wes and the world a feast for the eyes? Or will Wes be the one who is must-see?

Sit-down interview with Grayson Waller.

Vic Joseph notes people have been talking about the big match-up last week at New Year’s Evil, but what is on Waller’s mind? Waller says that was supposed to be the night he “saved” NXT. We’ve all seen Bron’s run. He’s beaten everyone. “But he couldn’t beat Grayson Waller.” Highlights show that Bron was everything Waller knew he’d be: fast, strong, athletic, and stupid. Waller had Bron’s ever move from “moment one to moment done.” Losing that match had nothing to do with Bron and everything to do with the one thing out of his control: the ring itself. The middle rope broke because Waller put Bron through it!

Then 20 idiots had to run out and fix the ring. If they’d done their job right, Walelr would be champion! But they messed up, so that messed Waller up. Vic fast-forwards to “the knee seen around the world.” That somersault adlib, Vic thought Waller really was going to win. Yeah, knee to forehead, bang, done, except credit where it’s due, Bron survived. But Waller always has a back-up plan, and that was his baller elbow. But then he falls out of the ring, he hears the count, loses via count-out. And to be honest, he doesn’t feel like a loser. Bron was half dead in the ring! Waller is as much a champion as Bron is! So much so, Waller has his own copy of the title.

Waller puts the belt on his shoulder. He looks pretty good, doesn’t he? Vic says next time Waller can win the title for real, is at Vengeance Day. It’s a rematch, but inside a STEEL CAGE! Waller says most people don’t wanna be stuck in a cage with Bron. Waller isn’t most people. There is nowhere he wants to be more than stuck in a cage with “that dog.” HBK says he wants a decisive winner? No problem, Shawn! Waller’s got you! He’ll make sure of it! It doesn’t matter if the cage breaks or the ring breaks, Waller makes sure to pin Bron! It could be inside on the mat, outside on the cement, he’s winning!

This is the most important event in NXT history! NXT is back on the road, starting with Charlotte, NC! And who better to drive than Waller? Think of all the superstars that have been in Charlotte. “WOO!” And not one of them can hold a candle to Waller! Waller takes Bron, takes the title, and takes Charlotte viral when he becomes the NEW NXT Champion. The 21st Century Success Story is ready, will the Grayson Waller Effect finally take effect on Vengeance Day?

Gallus speaks.

Mark Coffey & Wolfgang are headed to gorilla as Mark says, “We’ve been away, haven’t we, Wolfie?” “Aye, Mark.” “And we’re back now, aren’t we, Wolfie?” “Aye, Mark. And we’re about to remind Briggs & Jensen, and every other team out there, why it’s Gallus Boys On Top.”

Briggs & Jensen also speak.

The Country Boys and Fallon are also on their way, and Briggs says, “Ain’t no free ones with us, Gallus. You already know that.” Jensen says, “These country boys’re ’bout to raise some hell tonight. Both teams are ready, both teams are tough, but which team will truly be on top after tonight? That match is on, after the break.

Alba Fyre is after a ref backstage!

Other refs try and get her to stand down as she has her bat pressed into the neck of the ref who called her match against Sol Ruca! He apologizes, Kayden Carter & Katana Chance tell Fyre to stand down, and Fyre listens. The refs get their fellow ref out of there, and KC Squared explain to Fyre that this could get her fired! Fyre is furious and they ask what’s going on. She doesn’t know! She can’t win title matches, she can’t win against rookies, so she doesn’t know! Katana says Fyre should be patient. It took KC Squared a long time to get the Women’s Tag titles, but look at them now! They’re the longest reigning tag champs, and there’s not a team that can beat them.

So Fyre should just chill. Oh, is that right? Then maybe Fyre can set her eyes on them! Tag Team Champion, Alba Fyre, that sounds good to her. Well, not unless she can become two people or has split personalities. KC Squared saved her ass and she’s gonna come at them like this? Katana has Kayden cool off, and says that they’re ready to take on anyone, but Fyre doesn’t have a partner. Fyre doesn’t need anyone! Fyre storms off, is this all Isla Dawn’s doing?

Josh Briggs & Brooks Jensen w/ Fallon Henley VS Gallus!

Just as they were about to get in on the Pretty Deadly Gauntlet, the Country Boys were knocked down by Mark Coffey & Wolfgang, who were suspended until recently. Gallus sniped their spot in the match and may have sniped their shot at the tag titles, but will Briggs & Jensen turn things back around?

The teams sort out, but then a brawl breaks out! The bell rings, Briggs CLUBS Mark out of the ring and Jensen keeps after Wolfgang. Mark ROCKS Briggs in return, Wolfgang throws body shots, then he powers Jensen to the Gallus corner. Wolfgang throws hands, Mark tags in, and Wolfgang feeds Jensen to a LARIAT! Wolfgang throws down hands, stands Jensen up and ROCKS him! Jensen throws body shots, whips, but things speed up. Briggs tags in and he helps Jensen run Mark over! Then they double scoop SLAM! Briggs covers, TWO! Briggs clamps onto Mark with a facelock, he tags Jensen back in, and they double whip.

Mark reverses to send Jensen into a knee from Wolfgang! Mark ROCKS Briggs, ELBOWS Jensen, and tag to Wolfgang! Wolfgang drops an elbow, then rains down fists on Jensen. Wolfgang drops a knee on Jensen’s head, then another! Wolfgang drags Jensen up, headlocks, then clamps on a cobra clutch! Tag to Mark, Wolfgang ripcords Jensen for a shoulder, Mark CLUBS Jensen on the back! Mark KNEES Jensen down, then stalks him to ropes. Jensen throws an elbow but Mark KNEES low again. Jensen throws hands, fans rally up, but Mark ROCKS him with a forearm! Jensen leans on ropes, Mark tags in Wolfgang.

Gallus mugs Jensen, and Wolfgang whips Jensen, only for Jensen to hurdle! Jensen doesn’t get over Wolfgang cleanly, but he does make it to the ropes. Briggs tags in and runs in to fire off on Wolfgang! Briggs whips Wolfgang to a corner, runs in and clotheslines! Briggs keeps moving but has to swipe at Mark as he stands by the ropes. Briggs turns around and he BOOTS Wolfgang down! Fans fire up, Briggs brings Wolfgang up in a headlock, but Wolfgang powers out. Mark tags in, Wolfgang bypasses Briggs and Mark trips him up! Mark drags Briggs out to APRON BACK SUPLEX! Then he throws down hands!

Wolfgang BLASTS Jensen, Mark puts Briggs in. Fallon checks Jensen butt Mark mugs Briggs at the apron. Then Gallus pulls up the floor mats! Fans are freaking out but Jensen and Briggs brawl with Gallus! Jensen RAMS Wolfgang into barriers, but Mark goes to suplex! Briggs fights that off, to suplex Mark to the floor! Fans fire up for Briggs as NXT goes picture in picture.

Briggs leaves Mark behind to get in the ring. Briggs and Jensen regroup, see Gallus regrouping outside, and Briggs coordinates with Jensen. They both run, baseball slide, and then fire off haymakers on Gallus! They push Mark into the ring, but Wolfgang grabs at Briggs. Briggs kicks Wolfgang away, rushes in, but Mark gets around to waistlock. Briggs runs to ropes, bucks Mark, but comes back into an ENZIGURI! Mark BOOTS Briggs down, pushes him to the corner, and stomps him. Tag to Wolfgang, and Gallus mugs Briggs. Cover, TWO! Wolfgang clamps onto Briggs with a chinlock but Briggs fights up.

Wolfgang throws EuroUppers, then bumps Briggs off buckles. Tag to Mark and Gallus mugs Briggs in the corner. The ref counts, they let off, and Mark cravats. Briggs resists the snapmare but Mark knees low and CLUBS Briggs down. Mark throws hands but Briggs gives them back! Mark gets the edge, facelocks, and he grinds Briggs down. Briggs fights up, but Mark whips him away to CLOBBER him! Cover, TWO! Mark keeps on Briggs with a facelock and grinds him down again. Briggs endures, fights up, and NXT returns to single picture. Fans rally, Briggs fights his way over, and he BACK DROPS Mark away!

Hot tag to Jensen! Jensen rallies on Mark, BOOTS Wolfgang, then WHEEL KICKS Mark! Fans fire up with Jensen while Mark sputters. Jensen drags Mark up, suplexes, but the bad back stops him! Mark whips Jensen into the corner, kitchen sink knees, then tags Wolfgang. Wolfgang is up top for the DIVING SENTON! Cover, TWO!! Jensen survives but Wolfgang clamps on with a chinlock. Jensen endures as Wolfgang grinds him down. Wolfgang CLUBS Jensen, POSTS him, then tags Mark. Jensen flops to the floor, Mark drags him up and DECKS him! Mark pushes Jensen back into the ring, and he drops a knee! Cover, TWO!

Mark is annoyed but he stomps Jensen and kicks him around. Jensen throws hands but Mark knees him again. Mark drags Jensen up, pushes him to ropes and CLUBS him on the back! Jensen drops to his knees, Mark pushes him to a cover, TWO! Jensen goes to ropes but in the Gallus corner. Tag to Wolfgang and Wolfgang stomps Jensen down! Wolfgang digs his knee in, tags Mark, and Gallus stomps the legs. Mark facelocks to keep Jensen down, but Jensen fights up as the fans rally. Jensen powers Mark back, reaches out for Briggs, but Mark kicks Briggs’ hands! Mark CLUBS Jensen, runs in, but Jensen dodges! Hot tag to Briggs!

Briggs rallies on Gallus with big haymakers! Wolfgang runs in but is sent right out! Mark runs in but Briggs puts him on the apron! Briggs DECKS Mark, then goes to the apron for a FLYING SHOULDER! Direct hit and Mark goes down! Jensen fires off on Wolfgang, whips, but Wolfgang blocks! Wolfgang ROCKS Jensen, then feeds him to Mark! Back drop onto the bare concrete!! Jensen writhes in pain and fans lose their minds! Briggs BOOTS Wolfgang, ROCKS Mark, and he puts Mark in the ring. Briggs climbs, leaps, FLYING CLOTHESLINE! And then a scoop to a SIDEWALK SLAM and SPLASH!

Fans fire up with Briggs but he realizes what happened to Jensen. Fallon calls to medics and they hurry over. Briggs goes back to Mark, Mark cradles! TWO! DOUBLE LARIATS take both men down! Kiana James rushes out here and pushes Fallon aside to check on Jensen. Fallon tells Kiana to give him space but Kiana says she’s here to be for him. Jensen wants the medics just to get him up on his feet. Fans rally for Jensen, Briggs fires off with Mark! They go forearm for forearm, Briggs gets the edge, and he ROCKS Mark! And he ROCKS Wolfgang! But Mark POLISH HAMMERS! Tag to Wolfgang, and they set Briggs up for the ENZIGURI POWERSLAM!! Cover, Gallus wins!

Winners: Gallus, by pinfall

Mark & Wolfgang beat Pretty Deadly and they may have just broken Briggs & Jensen! Will Jensen be able to compete again after getting tossed like that? Will New Day be the next team on Gallus’ list?

Duke Hudson gets Thea Hail hyped up.

He says she’s going to get her first win in NXT! Is she ready? She’s ready! To throw up… That’s good, kinda. Okay, not the throwing up, but good that she’s nervous. That means she wants it! Andre Chase walks in and asks why he’s phone’s been blowin’ up. Thea says that means they’re getting the new Chase U swimming pool! Uh, no… Duke asks if this is about Thea’s match. Oh, Duke knows what this is about. Chase shows us the footage. Someone was spying on Duke talking with another Chase U student. Duke said Thea’s match is a must-win, because the win-loss record is not reflecting well on the school, on Duke or on anyone else.

Duke defends that he doesn’t know who was filming that. Chase doesn’t care who was filming it, he cares that Duke said that! If he has something to say, he should say it to their face! Duke says that conversation was taken completely out of context! But more importantly, tonight is about Thea! She’ll get her first win! Thea says yes, they should worry about that video later. She has her match now, so can we please go? Chase says okay, and they head out. Was the infamous “NXT_Anonymous” the one who was watching? And in the end, does Duke have a point? Is this match critical for not just Thea but ALL of Chase U?

The Country Boys are in NXT Medical.

The medic checks Jensen’s back, and it’s sore. Jensen says he’s fine, he just got the wind knocked out of him. Briggs wants Jensen to listen to the doc. But then Fallon storms in and asks Jensen why the hell she ran out there. Well, first of all, Kiana James has a name. And second, she was checking on him. Well she did more harm than good! He cannot be that blind. Jensen says Kiana was more concerned for him than Fallon was. Fallon says Kiana has him wrapped around her finger! She doesn’t like Jensen, she’s just USING Jensen!! HEY! What is she using him for? Fallon still has the bar, right? Jensen likes Kiana, Kiana likes Jensen, and Fallon just has to deal with that.

Fallon says she doesn’t have to “deal” with anything! And when Kiana breaks Jensen’s heart, Fallon won’t help him pick up the pieces. Fallon storms off, but is she right about Kiana? Or is Fallon’s own judgment blinded by something else?

Thea Hail w/ Chase U VS Valentina Feroz!

Chase U’s top recruit has yet to get a win in NXT, and as the video shows, Duke Hudson put on the pressure by saying it is a must-win scenario. However, Thea’s up against a superstar who is also in dire need of winning a match all on her own. Something’s gotta give, who will avoid the worst case scenario?

The bell rings and fans rally for Thea as she circles with Feroz. They are both rather anxious, and Feroz rushes in. Thea avoids the takedown, they tie up, and they go around. Feroz headlocks, hits a takeover, but Thea powers free. Thea says “U!” and Feroz shouts, “C’MON!” They tie up again, Thea headlocks then wrenches to a wristlock. Feroz rolls, spins, and wrangles Thea down! Thea keeps her shoulders up, kips up and wrenches to a wristlock. Feroz fights it but Thea keeps on it. Feroz spins, trips Thea, but Thea BOOTS Feroz away! But Feroz sweeps and covers, ONE! Thea sweeps and covers, ONE!

Thea arm-drags Feroz, but Feroz SAYANAGIS Thea and SHOTGUNS her down! Cover, TWO! Feroz is frustrated, she clamps onto Thea’s arms and wraps her up. Thea kicks around, reaches out, but here comes Elektra Lopez! Lopez nods to Feroz while Thea fights up. Feroz whips, Thea gets around and goes for a crucifix, but Feroz stays up! Feroz moves Thea around, but Thea turns that to a sunset flip! Only for Feroz to sit on it! TWO!! Thea escapes and SLIDING KICKS, to a STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Feroz survives, Thea covers again, TWO! Fans rally as Thea tries another cover, TWO!

Thea grows frustrated but both Duke and Chase coach her. But Feroz drags Thea down to a cover, TWO! Feroz knees low, BOOTS Thea down, then whips Thea to ropes. Thea ducks ‘n’ dodges, but DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! Fans fire up and Lopez approaches the apron. Lopez coaches Feroz, but Duke asks her why she’s here. Chase has Duke stand down to focus on Thea, but this also distracts the ref. Lopez slips Feroz the brass knuckles!! Feroz wonders what this is about, and then the ref sees those knuckles shining! Feroz takes them off and tells Lopez that she doesn’t need this! Feroz throws those away, goes up to Thea, but Thea wrenches!

Thea cravats, for a FACEBUSTER! Cover, THEA WINS!!

Winner: Thea Hail, by pinfall

Thea’s first win EVER, and it’s because Lopez tried to help Feroz! Lopez shakes her head, disappointed that Feroz didn’t do things her way. As for Chase U, winning supposedly fixes things, but has it gotten Chase to forget what Duke said?

Trick & Melo exit NXT Arena.

Melo says Apollo got his, but it’s cool. They’re even. Trick says that’s as even as they’re ever gonna be. But then Apollo walks over and says those visions didn’t turn out how they planned, huh? It sucks, right? You sit down, you put all your thoughts into words, put pen to paper, and it just doesn’t happen. That’s no fun. Okay, stop bragging about the tag match, acting like you beat Melo on your own. Get over it. Yeah, that’s cheap. Cheap? Aw c’mon, guys, you know a victory is never cheap when it comes to Trick & Melo. As a matter of fact, it calls for a celebration! That’s what Apollo will do! He’ll need a fresh cut. They know a good barber in town?

Melo & Trick can’t even as Apollo heads off. Mostly because Apollo ain’t got no hair. Will Apollo & Axiom return the favor that is the mockery?

BREAKING NEWS in regards to the wrestling community as a whole.

Sadly, one half of the ROH World Tag Team Champions, Jay Briscoe, has passed away. WWE and NXT want to give their condolences to Jay’s friends and family tonight.

Lopez finds Feroz in the locker room.

Lopez asks Feroz, “Why didn’t you take my help?” Feroz says she doesn’t cheat. Lopez sits with Feroz and says that “whether you play by the rules or you throw the rulebook away, you fight to win. You fight for respect.” Feroz says Lopez and Sanga clearly think the same. Well, yeah. So quit sulking over Sanga. Lopez has stood with men before, and she realized that to get what she wants, she had to stand on her own and do whatever it takes. She practices what she preaches, too, so watch her take on Wendy Choo next week. Lopez leaves and Feroz isn’t so sure about that, but will she soon see things La Madrina’s way?

The New Day is here!

Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods are dressed in nice suits as they head to the ring. They get the mics as the fans cheer them on, “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” Woods says, “Ladies and gentlemen! It’s ya bois, the NEW~ DAY~, and we look… GOOD!” Woods wants Kofi to explain why. Kofi asks if fans want to know why they look good, look dapper, and look sharp? It’s because today is a very special occasion. They are DONE with Pretty Deadly, BABYYY~! #YESBOY! But uh, if they’re not going up against Pretty Deadly at Vengeance Day, then who are they facing? Who who who? Kofi says they will go against the team that won the gauntlet match in this very ring!

Yes, that means The New Day is going against GALLUS~! They cross their arms to mock the Gallus pose, but then Pretty Deadly makes their way out here! Elton Prince says, “No no no no. Stop this absolute travesty!” Look at New Day, embarrassing themselves talking nonsense! Pretty Deadly hates nonsense! Kit Wilson says The New Day is making a mockery of them! Do they think this is funny? Fans chant ‘YES! YES!” Woods asks, “Do we think this is funny?” Fans say, “YES!” Well you heard the fans! Of course this is funny! It’s really funny considering Pretty Deadly LOST that gauntlet match! HAHAHAHA!

Woods says it’s funny especially because all they had to do before was get all the items on the wish list. If they’d just gotten Ahmed Johnson’s Legion of Doom shoulder pads, they wouldn’t be talking about this. Elton tells them to shut up! Shut your mouths! Kit adds on, and Pretty Deadly says they’ve been jumping through hoops for The New Day for a whole month, and it isn’t fair! Kofi realizes they missed an opportunity: they should’ve had Pretty Deadly literally jump through hoops! Kit says New Day isn’t getting it! Pretty Deadly is done with the games! This isn’t about Gallus, this is about Pretty Deadly, “the rightful #1 contenders to those NXT Tag Team titles.”

New Day knows it, Pretty Deadly knows it, and the fans know it! Fans boo, but then here comes Gallus! Mark & Wolfgang have mics, and Mark wants everyone to hold on. Did they hear that right? Did Pretty Deadly just claim to be the #1 contenders? No, Pretty Deadly, the New Day are gonna bang on, and Kit & Elton don’t deserve another chance at the titles after Gallus battered Pretty Deadly last week. Pretty Deadly says Gallus weren’t even supposed to be in the gauntlet! “In English, that is called a gross miscarriage of justice!” Gallus steps into the ring and Pretty Deadly backs off.

Mark says everyone’s chances of becoming NXT Tag Team Champions are done! Because Gallus is back! Nobody expected them, and after they put Pretty Deadly to bed, and now Briggs & Jensen, New Day is next. Fans boo, then chant “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” Mark says Kofi & Woods like talking about records they hold. But here’s what Gallus is about: turning up, kicking off, and ruining everyone’s good time. Woods says, “Considering the fact that none of us understood a word you two just said… We can tell from the body language that you wanna fight. So we’re ready when you are.” But then Pretty Deadly CLOBBERS all four of them!

Fans fire up as the brawl is on! Woods and Kofi go after Elton, Kit has Wolfgang but then Mark storms over. Woods feeds Elton to Kofi’s BELLY BELT SHOT! Mark hits Kit with a HALF NELSON SLAM! New Day TOSSES Elton, Mark clotheslines Kit out! And then New Day and Gallus stare down. Officials rush out to stop Pretty Deadly from getting back in, and the brawl is now between Gallus and New Day! Fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT!” but more officials rush out to stop this! New Day wants to move on, Pretty Deadly want a rematch and Gallus just wants the gold, how will Vengeance Day’s NXT Tag Team title match shape out?

Backstage interview with Roxie and Lyra.

McKenzie says in tonight’s main event, they team up for the first time ever and take on Toxic Attraction. How do they feel they will “gel” in the match? Roxie knows she and Lyra have common enemies. Whether it’s Toxic Attraction this week or Cora Jade last week, they both know what it’s like to be the new girl. And everyone knows that since day one, Toxic Attraction has been trying to make Roxie’s life a living hell. She won’t let that happen to Lyra. Lyra says she normally flies solo, but tonight she makes an exception. Roxie was there for her, so tonight, Lyra is there in the main event for Roxie. Toxic Attraction thinks-

Wait, Javier Bernal walks in with a guitar? Javi says he was looking all over for McKenzie. She knows his match is next, right? Uh, he knows she’s in the middle of an interview, right? Oh, okay. But his match- Oh, wait, did McKenzie buy his Christmas album? He heard it hit the Top 40. Hey, champ, wanna hear a song? No, she really doesn’t. Okay. How about new girl? Feliz Javidad is flying up the charts. Get out! Sheesh, tough crowd. Big Body Javi moves on, but will he use that guitar to sing his own praises after tonight?

Sit down interview with Bron Breakker.

Just as Vic Joseph interviewed Grayson Waller, Vic now sits with the NXT Champion to talk about the rematch. What’s been going through Bron’s mind since New Year’s Evil? He just wants the bad taste out of his mouth. No one wanted that match to end that way, including him. Bron wanted a definitive winner. He wanted to stand over Waller after having speared him in half, knowing he proved he’s better than Waller, and it didn’t happen. He didn’t get that satisfaction. Vic knows that it was tough because he saw Bron’s face at the end of it. And he saw Bron’s face after the Knee Seen Around the World. Vic admits, he thought he’d have to say, “And new.”

Bron is sure everyone thought that. Credit where it is due, Bron was setting up for the spear, but Waller caught him off guard. It took Bron everything to kick out. Waller then goes to the ropes for his elbow but the ropes break. That is the big question, “What if?” If Waller hit the elbow, would we have seen a new champion? Who knows, Bron can’t answer that. But there’s doubt now in the people’s minds. They don’t think Bron should be champion. And that’s fine, because all the questions will be answered on Vengeance Day. Vic says that’s coming in two weeks, Bron VS Waller, inside a STEEL CAGE.

Bron says that sounds good. He couldn’t be more excited. The cage is like icing on the cake. He couldn’t think of a better scenario. There’s nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. The trash talk, the mind games, trying to get under Bron’s skin, it won’t work. It all runs through Vengeance Day. Bron won’t climb out, he’s going to win in the ring. Then not to ruffle any feathers, but Vic brings up Waller walking around with his own belt. Bron says Waller’s the best trash talker around. He talks trash but gets his ass kicked. He’d be a disgrace as the leader of the brand because he’s selfish. Waller’s here for himself, not for the brand.

Bron says that over his dead body will Waller be the champion. Waller won’t be talking trash being thrown up against the cage and left in the center of that ring. HBK and the fans want a definitive winner, Bron will give that to us. Waller will be down and Bron will leave Charlotte still NXT Champion. Will Bron make sure he breaks Waller once and for all?

Tyler Bate VS Javier Bernal!

The Big Strong Boy is back, but Big Body Javi is about to do his best Elias impersonation. “In celebration of Feliz Javidad hitting the top 40, how about I play you guys a little concert? Thank you, Orland!” Javi starts singing, but then Tyler’s music stops that! Fans fire up already, will Tyler prove that he’s back and better than ever?

The bell rings, Bate and Javi circle and the fans cheer on the Big Strong Boy. Bate offers a handshake, but then leaves Javi hanging. Bate then tickles Javi to the corner! The ref counts, Bate lets off, and he ties up with Javi. Bate waistlocks, baits Javi into going for his leg, and then leap frogs over to slide under. Bate baits Javi in again, rolls Javi up, TWO! Javi runs in but into a headlock. Jaiv pulls hair, the ref reprimands, but Javi headlocks. Bate endures, powers up, and powers out to leap, drop down and dropkick! Bate arm-drags Javi to a wristlock and grinds Javi down. Javi endures but Bate brings him up.

Bate clamps onto the arm, but Javi pulls hair to bring Bate into ropes! The ref backs Bate off, but Javi pokes Bate in the eye! Javi CLUBS Bate, whips him to a corner and runs to BULLDOG! Then SLIDING LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Javi pushes Bate down to rain down fists! Javi grinds his forearm in, the fans boo, but Javi lets off. Javi drags Bate up and talks trash, then he throws down more hands. Fans rally for Bate and Bate counter punches! And again! And UPPERCUTS! Bate UPPERCUTS Javi again, whips him, but Javi reverses. Bate rebounds, but he slips out of the bulldog! Javi gets up but Bate rallies on him!

Bate kicks, headbutts, whips, and CLOBBERS Javi! Fans fire up as Javi flounders to ropes. Bate storms up to fire off more uppercuts. Bate whips, Javi reveres, and Javi runs in. Javi blocks Bate’s boot, but Bate brings Javi down to KNEE him away! Bate then goes up to FLYING UPPERCUT! Fans fire up more as Javi swings into an EXPLODER! Bate kips up and hits a STANDING SHOOTING STAR! Bate drags Javi up, reels him in and underhooks the arms, but Javi wrenches out to CODE- NO, Bate blocks that and throws Javi back. Bop up, BANG! Javi staggers, swings on Bate, but Bate dodges to Bop up, and BANG again!

Javi flounders around, Bate runs, COMEBACKER LARIAT! Underhooks, Javi fights off the lift, but Bate gets him back up, TYLER DRIVER 98!! Cover, Bate wins!

Winner: Tyler Bate, by pinfall

Javi may have topped the charts, but he just dropped off with this one. Tyler Bate is back and here to stay, will he get back to the top of the mountain in NXT?

Chase U celebrates Thea’s win!

Duke carries Thea on his shoulders while the other students march through waiving banners and chanting her name! Chase still looks a bit upset about earlier, but Briggs & Jensen are also a bit bummed. At least someone won tonight, right? Go Chase U. Briggs says he’s going to get going as Fallon walks in, but Fallon tells him to stay. What’s she want? Fallon apologizes to Jensen for what she said earlier, but she just wants what’s best for him. He knows she does. And Fallon knows Kiana means a lot to him, so she’ll try to make this work. She means that? Yes, and she even asked for a tag team match. Her partner is… Kiana James!

That’s great! Jensen thanks her, but Fallon says she’s only doing this for Jensen. Okay? Of course! Bar tonight, drinks on Briggs. Fallon knows a place. Briggs is fine with that, since they’re gonna have drinks. But will Fallon really be able to work well with Kiana?

BREAKING NEWS for Vengeance Day!

After the big brawl between the three teams, the NXT Tag Team Championship match is now a TRIPLE THREAT! The New Day will defend against Gallus AND Pretty Deadly! Will Kofi & Woods still be your W, W, E, N, X, T, Tag, Team, Champions~?! Will Gallus Boys truly be on top? Or will Kit & Elton be vindicated when they win those titles back?

Roxanne Perez & Lyra Valkyria VS Toxic Attraction!

Just as the Prodigy said, she and the Morrigan are taking on some common enemies in Gigi Dolin & Jacy Jayne. Will the NXT Women’s Champion be able to overcome her challengers while the numbers are even? Or will this end up a preview of how Toxic Attraction will take the title back on Vengeance Day?

The teams sort out and Roxie starts against Jacy. They rush in, Roxie gets around and fires off forearms! Fans fire up and Gigi runs in, but Lyra intercepts her with a knee! Roxie DECKS Jacy, Lyra DECKS Gigi, and Toxic bails out! Lyra & Roxie high-five, and then Roxie builds speed to DIVE onto Jacy! Fans fire up with Roxie, but Gigi gets up in her face. Only for Lyra to WRECK Gigi with a dropkick! Fans fire up as Lyra sits on the ropes and Roxie drags Jacy up. Roxie puts Jacy in, covers, ONE! Roxie keeps on Jacy with an armlock, then wrenches to YANK the arm. Roxie brings Jacy over, tags Lyra, and Lyra KICKS the arm.

Lyra knees low, throws more knees, then UPPERCUTS Jacy down! Lyra brings Jacy up, headlocks, but Jacy powers out. Roxie tags in, Lyra slips under to hold Jacy still, and Roxie wheelbarrows to victory roll, run and basement dropkick! Cover, TWO! Roxie grins as she has the arm again. Roxie steps over, La Magistrol, TWO! Roxie keeps Jacy down with a facelock, and she brings Jacy around. Roxie wrenches, tags Lyra, and Lyra goes up to DOUBLE STOMP the arms! Lyra drags Jacy up, wrenches, but Jacy pulls hair! Jacy knees low, tags Gigi, and Gigi runs in, but into a hip toss! Lyra covers, TWO! Lyra keeps Gigi down with a cravat.

Gigi fights up, but Roxie tags in. Lyra headbutts low, Roxie runs and CLOBBERS Gigi with that uppercut! Cover, TWO! Roxie waistlocks Gigi but Gigi runs. Jacy tags in., Roxie O’Conner Rolls but Jacy hits a NECKBREAKER! Jacy rains down fists on Roxie but fans boo as Jacy shrieks. Fans cheer on Roxie but Jacy tells them they all suck. Jacy CLUBS Roxie, whips her to the corner, then runs in to back body block! Jacy trips Roxie, tags Gigi, and Jacy gives Gigi a boost into the BRONCO BUSTER! Jacy adds on her CANNONBALL, then Gigi drags Roxie out to a jackknife bridge. TWO, and Gigi is annoyed as she drags Roxie from Lyra.

Gigi fires off Kawada Kicks but fans boo. Gigi drags Roxie over, tags Jacy in, and Gigi hits a KOKESHI HEADBUTT! Jacy adds on a SENTON! Cover, TWO! Jacy grows frustrated but Lyra coaches Roxie up. Fans rally, but Jacy pushes Roxie around. Jacy drags Roxie away, CLUBS her, then tags in Gigi. Jacy whips Roxie into Gigi’s BOOT, then Jacy LARIATS! Cover, TWO! Gigi drags Roxie away as fans duel, tag to Jacy. Jacy runs to BLAST Lyra off the apron! Jacy suplexes but Roxie slips free! Jacy ELBOWS Roxie, runs, but Roxie ducks and comes back, DOUBLE FACEBUSTERS take them both down!

Fans fire up as Roxie and Jacy both crawl, hot tags to Gigi and Lyra! Lyra rallies on Gigi with clotheslines! SOBAT! Front kick! HEADBUTT! AX KICK! Jacy runs in but Lyra dodges to ENZIGURI! Gigi runs back in, but into an EXPLODER! Lyra roars, fans fire up and she goes to the corner. Lyra climbs, but Jacy distracts the ref as CORA JADE rushes out! Cora shoves Lyra down! Fans boo as Cora again screws Lyra! Gigi tags Jacy, Jacy drags Lyra but Lyra BOOTS her away! Hot tag to Roxie! Roxie hits a THESZ PRESS and rains down fists on Jacy! Lyra DIVES onto Cora!! Fans fire up as Lyra throws hands on Cora!

Roxie runs in to UPPERCUT Jacy! Lyra chases Cora to the back as Roxie runs in to UPPERCUT Jacy again! Roxie wrenches, hooks Jacy up, but Gigi runs in to BOOT Roxie down! Tag to Gigi, Toxic Attraction sets up, but Roxie avoids Toxic Annihilation! The BOOT hits Gigi!! Jacy freaks out, fans are fired up, and Roxie smirks as she hooks Jacy up, RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! SOBAT for Gigi, and then POP ROX!! Cover, Roxie & Lyra win!

Winners: Roxanne Perez & Lyra Valkyria, by pinfall

The common enemies tried to take them down, but the numbers didn’t work in their favor! Roxie found a way to win against Gigi & Jacy here tonight, will she be able to do the same thing on Vengeance Day?

My Thoughts:

A really good NXT, especially in terms of building the Vengeance Day card. Really good interview promos from Waller and Bron, and I like the detail that they both want to end this in the ring. Honestly, HBK should just make the stipulation that escape doesn’t count as a win, so that there isn’t even the possibility of Waller changing his mind and going for the door or something. Good promo from Tony & Stacks to both reference Two Dimes but also strengthen the bond of the team. If Stacks is now the Underboss, I hope that means they’re thinking of expanding and adding new members. Dijak also had a decent promo in calling out Wes Lee, but I still think Wes wins their match.

Good promo from Tiffany and Indi with Indi putting Tiffany in her place and setting up a match between them. Tiffany will surely win that since it’s her return match, and honestly, Indi should’ve been called up a little bit ago. Maybe Indi will be a Royal Rumble entrant, maybe she’ll show up closer to WrestleMania, who knows. With Gargano hurt and no real plans for Lumis right now, The Way can’t really reunite on Raw just yet so Indi can hang around NXT to help the newer superstars. Really good stuff from Diamond Mine, especially Ivy getting the Creeds to focus. I hope we still get Creeds VS Indus Sher, because that can at least serve towards sending one team towards the titles.

Stevie Turner the Twitch streamer is only into week two and it’s already failing to land right. She wasn’t reacting, she was recapping. She should’ve been laughing, making jokes, going “OMG!” like she had no idea what happened last week. Clearly HBK is trying to show he knows the kids today and the technology we use, but he didn’t give Stevie the right direction in this promo. But what he can do is get Stevie in action sooner rather than later and let her show the US audience what she can do. And we got a good promo out of Toxic Attraction to just barely touch on the dysfunction forming. It also set up the main event well with Lyra and Roxie showing up and brawling.

The main event was a great match, too, with no real dysfunction until the end. Cora interfering should’ve been obvious, and I thought it was going to cost Lyra & Roxie, but Lyra runs Cora off to further their building feud. Lyra is surely winning her match with Cora to better establish herself on NXT. And Roxie using Gigi & Jacy against each other was great, that is of course the plan she’ll use for the Triple Threat. It worked here, who knows if it works at Vengeance Day, but I would think it does. As great as Gigi & Jacy are both individually and together, Roxie just got the belt so she’s gotta make it to Stand & Deliver with the title.

Really good opening match with Axiom, Apollo and Trick Melo Gang. Things were a bit sloppy at the start, but Apollo and Axiom get a good win. Apollo kinda rubbing it in as Trick & Melo were leaving was a good touch. I think we’ll get a rematch of Apollo VS Melo for Vengeance Day, that can be the blow-off that then sends Melo towards the NXT Championship for Stand & Deliver, where I hope Melo will win that title. Really good match out of Fyre VS Sol, and what a great surprise that Fyre lost. Sol’s finisher isn’t the most practical, but it is unique a least. Fyre going after the ref was a nice touch, and I bet Isla Dawn ends up Fyre’s tag team partner, even if she claims she doesn’t need one. As great as KC Squared are, Fyre & Dawn taking the titles would be pretty cool.

Good match for Bate’s return, but Javi might’ve been legitimately dazed from something. He should’ve been able to jump for that Tyler Driver but he ends up getting folded up more than he should have. Tyler can definitely build his own momentum towards a title while giving us great matches along the way. And it seems NXT Anonymous strikes again, this time exposing Duke Hudson. I agree with Duke, Chase U needs to start getting wins, and we got great story blending where Thea gets a win over Feroz to finally get that goose egg off her record. And it helps Feroz and Lopez move their story along. I think they’ll feud first, then become a team.

And speaking of, Fallon and Kiana will surely be a dysfunctional tag team that somehow wins. They’ll be tense the entire time, Jensen will end up in the middle, as will Briggs. With teams like Feroz & Lopez, Fallon & Kiana and Fyre & Dawn forming, it feels like HBK is making sure NXT is strong in all divisions. This will help so that there will be strong call-ups for all the divisions on RawDown. KC Squared should definitely show up on SmackDown post-WrestleMania so they can be contenders on that brand for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships.

Great tag match out of Gallus VS Briggs & Jensen, great win for Gallus, and then great promo from Gallus, New Day and Pretty Deadly to give us a brawl and the Triple Threat tag title match. That situation gives New Day a way to lose without being hurt, and I would love to see Gallus win that so they can join Pretty Deadly in the NXT & NXT UK Tag Champs Club. But where’s Joe Coffey? Maybe Joe is waiting to pounce on the North American title scene.

My Score: 8.4/10

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

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Eddie Kingston is on a Rampage!

Published

21 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Steven Mitchell

Will the Mad King regret this gamble?

Before putting both belts on the line against Katsuyori Shibata at AEW WrestleDream, Eddie Kingston defends his NJPW Strong title against Rocky Romero! Will plans have to change all thanks to Azucar?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

AEW World Trios Championships: The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn VS The Hardy Party; The Acclaimed & Billy win and retain the titles.
NJPW Strong Openweight Championship: Eddie Kingston VS Rocky Romero; Eddie wins and retains the title.
The Righteous VS Caleb Crush & Gunnar; The Righteous win.
AEW Women’s World Championship #1 Contender’s match: Ruby Soho VS Hikaru Shida; Shida wins and will challenge Saraya for the title on Title Tuesday, October 10th.

PLAY BY PLAY

AEW World Trios Championships: The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn VS The Hardy Party!

The open challenge was put forth, and it was answered very quickly! Will Matt, Jeff & Brother Zay DELETE the Scissor World Tour? Or will Max Caster, Anthony Bowens & Daddy Ass keep the party going?

But of course, Platinum Max has a diss track! “Acclaimed on the mic, ’bout to leave these dudes up in smoke! Y’know we comin’ like the Colorado Buffalos! Matt, I don’t want any heat! I don’t need your crazy ass wife sendin’ me tweets! It’s the one guy in Private Party! Nowadays, he gets tag teamed by the Hardys! Jeff, I’m a leave you black in both eyes! You gonna need these sunglasses like Coach Prime.” Bowens takes the mic to say “COLORADOOOO~! The Acclaimed have arrived! Scissor Me, Daddy Ass~!” And he does! The belts are raised, and we see who survives WrestleDream weekend!

The trios sort out and Bowens starts against Kassidy. They shake hands, tie up, and Bowens waistlocks. Kassidy drop toeholds, facelocks but Bowens slips free to wrench. Kassidy rolls, handsprings, wrenches and hammerlocks to a headlock. Bowens powers out to headlock but Kassidy powers out, only for Bowens to run him over! Bowens self-scissors, then things speed up. Kassidy hurdles, Bowens shoves then follows but Kassidy arm-drags! Bowens arm-drags! Bowens blocks Kassidy’s arm-drag to whip, but Kassidy wheelbarrows and arm-drags! Bowens stands, into a RANA! Kassidy then pounds the mat and fans fire up.

Bowens kicks but Kassidy blocks to spin him. Kassidy kicks but Bowens blocks to flip him! Bowens then kicks, kicks and KOTARO KRUSHER! Fans fire up, “EVERYONE Loves The Acclaimed!” Bowens drags Kassidy up, tags in Caster, and they double whip. Kassidy holds ropes, TOSSES Bowens then BOOTS Caster! Tag to Matt and Matt BOOTS Caster! Kassidy hits a NECKBREAKER, Jeff tags in to go up, for the SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Jeff snapmares Caster to then NECK SNAPPER! Fans fire up with Jeff and he waits on Caster to stand. Kick but no Twist as Caster slips free! Jeff ducks the backhand to SPIN KICK!

Jeff CLUBS Caster, Caster scrambles away, tags to Billy and Matt! Fans fire up as Matt says “DELETE! DELETE!” Billy says “SUCK IT!” “DELETE!” “SUCK IT!” “DELETE!” “SUCK IT!” And repeat! Then Billy headlocks! Matt throws body shots, powers out, but Billy runs Matt over! Billy flexes and does a dance, and then he runs in. Matt ELBOWS Billy, BOOTS him, then bumps him off buckles! “DELETE! DELETE! DELETE!” Billy gets all three layers, and Matt tags Jeff. Jeff tags Kassidy, and the Hardys set up fort he classic POETRY IN MOTION! Then Kassidy adds PARTY IN MOTION! But The Acclaimed CLOBBER Kassidy & The Hardys!

Fans fire up as Caster has Kassidy up to scoop and SLAM! Billy helps get the legs, and Bowens goes up to SCISSOR ME TIMBERS! Kassidy squeals before impact! Cover, TWO! Kassidy survives but The Acclaimed have control as Rampage goes picture in picture.

Billy brings Kassidy up, bumps him off buckles, and he hears the fans singing. Billy ROCKS Kassidy with a right, apologizes to the ref, then tags to Bowens. Bowens drags Kassidy up to ROCK him with haymaker after haymaker! Bowens then brings Kassidy up to tag in Caster. They double suplex Kassidy, Caster covers, TWO! Another cover, TWO! Caster keeps Kassidy down with a chinlock while fans rally up. Kassidy fights to his feet, throws body shots, and he fires forearms as Rampage returns to single picture. Kassidy runs but Caster CLOBBERS him! Tag to Billy and they mug Kassidy.

Billy brings Kassidy to an open corner, stomps and ROCKS him on repeat, then lets off to smirk at the Hardys. He dares them to do something, but Matt tells Billy to suck it! So Billy DECKS Matt! Billy runs corner to corner but Kassidy dodges! The splash hits buckles and Billy falls back! Fans rally up as both men crawl, but Billy gets Kassidy’s leg! Kassidy stands up to ENZIGURI! Hot tag to Jeff! Jeff rallies on Billy, on Bowens, and on Caster! Fans fire up and Jeff clotheslines Billy up and out! Jeff CLOBBS Bowens, then catches him for a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Leg hook cradle! Cover, Caster breaks it!

Caster helps Bowens up, then runs in, but Jeff ELBOWS caster and ROCKS Bowens! Jeff goes up, WHISPER IN THE WIND! Jeff gets both Caster and Bowens but everyone is down! Billy returns, kicks low, says ‘SUCK IT!” and runs, but Jeff dodges! Matt kicks Billy for a TWIST OF FATE! Jeff hurries up top, fans fire up, SWANTON BOMB! Cover, Bowens breaks it in time! Matt CLUBS Bowens, Bowens hits back, and Bowens calls to Caster. They whip Matt to a corner, forearm then ELBOW then forearm again! And a feed to the POWERSLAM! ROLLING ELBOW for Jeff! The Acclaimed regroup, and Billy crawls to the corner.

Fans fire up as Billy drags Jeff over. Jeff gets loose, hot tags to Kassidy and Bowens! Kassidy dodges Bowens to DROPKICK Caster! “This is Awesome!” as Kassidy BOOTS Bowens! Kassidy goes up, leaps, FLYING FLATLINER! Billy stands, runs in, but Kassidy dumps him out! Kassidy slingshots out then QUEBRADAS to take Billy down! Kassidy mocks the scissoring, then tells Bowens to get up. Kassidy springboards in, but Bowens dodges and Caster BACKHANDS Kassidy! Then Bowens BACKHANDS Kassidy! Bowens fires off the Five Tool Strike Fest! Caster hoists Kassidy up and Bowens helps, to give Kassidy the PLATINUM BOMB! Cover, The Acclaimed win!

Winners: The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn, by pinfall (still AEW World Trios Championships)

A huge win for the champions, and the Scissor World Tour continues! In fact, it is heading to Seattle for WrestleDream’s Zero Hour! TMDK’s Shane Haste, Mikey Nicholls & Bad Dude Tito are waiting, will they show The Acclaimed that The Mighty Don’t Kneel?

Eddie Kingston speaks.

“Well folks, tonight, it’s me and Big Rock, Rocky Romero, for the NJPW Strong Openweight Championship. Rock, I got nothing but respect for you, dawg, so it’s gonna be an honor and a pleasure to defend this against you. You’re the man that got me into the G1. You’re the man that got me-” Wait, Team Triple J is interrupting. Jay Lethal says that if we’re talking honor and respect, Eddie is standing here with two titles on his shoulders, and that is worth respecting. But Lethal can’t get behind how Eddie is the ROH World Champion. Lethal dedicated his life to that title! His blood, sweat, tears, all to honor a tradition that meant that every person to hold that title would be a pure athlete!

And Eddie, you are no pure athlete! Now as for this NJPW Strong Openweight title, Lethal doesn’t care if Eddie wins it or loses it here tonight. He really doesn’t. But he just cares that Eddie is unfit to be ROH World Champion! Eddie says okay, he’s got Lethal. But excuse his back, he’s gotta go beat up Romero. The Mad King leaves, but will he still have both crowns going into WrestleDream?

AEW shares an interview from after last week’s Collision.

Lexi Nair was with Andrade El Idolo after he was bandaged up from the beating Bullet Club Gold gave him. He almost won, but Juice Robinson interfered. What was that about? Andrade says everyone saw that Andrade had White beat. But the question for Juice is… “Do you have a problem with me? With Andrade El Idolo? Lemme tell you something. See you Saturday in Seattle!” Andrade wants his revenge on Rock Hard, will he get it on WrestleDream Eve?

NJPW Strong Openweight Championship: Eddie Kingston VS Rocky Romero!

The Mad King beat Kenta at NJPW Independence Day back in July to have his first singles title under the NJPW banner. And now he defends it against Azucar as a favor for getting him in the door. Will Rocky repay this favor by taking this title from Eddie? Or will Eddie still head to Seattle as a double champion?

The introductions are made, the NJPW belt is raised, and we see who is truly NJPW Strong!

The bell rings and fans rally up for “EDDIE! EDDIE!” The two circle, Rocky tests things with a kick but Eddie stays back. They feel things out, tie up, and are in a deadlock. Eddie waistlocks, Rocky wrenches, wristlocks, but Eddie clinches. Fans rally, Rocky keeps on the wristlock but Eddie powers through to wrench and wristlock back. Rocky rolls, breaks free and DROPKICKS! Fans are torn as Rocky swaggers, but he and Eddie reset. They feel things out, knuckle lock, and Rocky knees low. Rocky headlocks, grinds the hold, but Eddie powers up and out. They RAM shoulders, but Eddie stays up with a smirk.

Fans fire up as Rocky smirks back, but then pie faces Eddie! Rocky runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, and RANAS! Eddie bails out, Rocky builds speed and DIVES! Direct hit but Eddie stays up, so Rocky goes again! DIVE and Eddie drops to his knees! Rocky keeps going, and he DIVES for the hattrick, only for Eddie to catch him! Stalling suplex, to the floor! Fans rally behind Eddie while Rampage goes picture in picture.

Eddie stands, stretches out his back, and then he gets Rocky up and into the ring. Cover, TWO! Eddie keeps cool, and also chooses not to rain down fists, instead clamping on a chinlock. Rocky endures as Eddie grinds him down, and fans rally up. Eddie cranks the headlock but Rocky refuses to give up. Rocky fights up, throws elbows, but Eddie knees him low! Eddie whips to knee low again, then whips for another knee! Eddie whips but Rocky rolls him up, TWO! Rocky BUZZSAWS Eddie, then TORNADO DDTS! Both men are down and a standing count begins. Rocky stirs at 3, crawls over, and he brings Eddie up.

Eddie pushes Rocky, runs, but into an IRON OCTOPUS! Eddie endures, pries at the hold, and pops free, only for Rocky to wrangle him with a ghost pin! TWO, and Eddie goes to ropes. Rocky storms up, KICKS Eddie in the back, but Eddie just grimaces. Eddie eggs Rocky on so Rocky KICKS him again! Eddie growls and eggs Rocky on more as Rampage goes picture in picture.

Rampage returns and Eddie suplexes, but Rocky knees free! Rocky knees low, Eddie rebounds, but into a JUMP KNEE! Eddie goes to ropes, Rocky storms over and brings him up through the ropes, to KICK! Eddie eggs Rocky on even though he’s stuck, so Rocky SLAPS Eddie! Eddie SLAPS Rocky! Rocky SOBATS! Then Rocky goes up a corner to MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Eddie is still in this and Rocky argues the count but the ref says it was fair. Rocky drags Eddie up, cravats, but no Sliced Bread! Eddie runs in to clothesline in the corner! And MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Fans fire up and Eddie hoists Rocky up top!

Eddie climbs up behind Rocky, stands him up, but Rocky throws hands! Rocky CLUBS Eddie, cravats, and hits SUPER SLICED BREAD! Cover, TWO!! Fans fire up as Eddie survives, and Rocky grits his teeth. Rocky pumps up and fans rally. Rocky runs in to clothesline! That’s one-ever! Two-ever! But URAKEN stops that! URAKEN again!! Eddie drags Rocky into the STRETCH PLUM!! Rocky taps, Eddie wins!!

Winner: Eddie Kingston, by submission (still NJPW Strong Openweight Champion)

Azucar could not dethrone The Mad King, but he still shows Eddie respect with a handshake and hug. Eddie is still NJWP Strong, but will he have to fight even harder to survive The Wrestler, Katsuyori Shibata?

Wait! That’s Shibata’s music! Shibata is HERE! He goes into the ring and shakes hands with Eddie. These two respect each other, and that means they will give it everything they’ve got! Will Eddie still be a two belt king? Or will Shibata become a TRIPLE CROWN Champion?

Aussie Open speaks.

Mark Davis says he is so tired. So tired of hearing the “top blokes” walk around here the last year, hubris unchecked, lying to the people that they are the best in the world. Kyle Fletcher says that for the last 365 days, everything Aussie Open has done has been to get back to FTR. When FTR beat them a year ago, it broke Fletcher. Fletcher felt like a failure and felt lost. So what he wants more than anything is to make FTR feel that pain. This Sunday, Aussie Open takes the AEW World Tag Team Championships, burns down the legacy of #7StarFTR, and from the ashes, rebuild a new empire that they will stand atop of to proclaim that THEY are the best tag team in the world!

The Aussie Arrow and Dunkzilla are ready to bring down Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler, will they fulfill that WrestleDream?

The Righteous VS Caleb Crush & Gunnar!

Speaking of tag titles, Dutch & Vincent are aimed at the ROH World Tag Team Championships! However, Adam Cole will be out with injury so it’ll just be Maxwell Jacob Friedman meeting them in Seattle. Will this tune-up prove to be more than enough going into that tag title handicap match?

The teams sort out, but then Dutch just CLOBBERS Crush & Gunnar! Fans boo as Dutch says just a few more days and those titles will be theirs! Vincent rains down fists on Crush, then drags him up to UPPERCUT! Vincent bumps Crush off buckles, tags in Dutch, and the Righteous mugs Crush before the BOSS MAN SLAM! Gunnar staggers up but Dutch feeds him to Vinnie’s KNEE! Then Vinnie feeds him to a BOSS MAN SLAM! Tag to Vinnie, fans are torn as the Righteous pace around Crush. Vinnie snaps his fingers, then cravats, AUTUMN SUNSET! Cover, Righteous win!

Winners: The Righteous, by pinfall

A swift and dominant win, these are the two men coming for the tag titles! Will The Righteous purge ROH of the “false friendship” that is the brochachos? Or are even two Righteous men combined not on the level of the Devil?

Ortiz sits alone in a room.

He looks back on his career alongside Mike Santana. They were at the top of their game coming into AEW, but then it ended up going downhill. There’s even audio from Konnan touching on how Ortiz and Santana stopped talking to each other and how Konnan was saddened by that. Ortiz has the footage stop there. What will it take for him to get Santana to talk to him?

Darby Allin speaks.

After replaying what Christian Cage said just last Wednesday on Dynamite, the Relentless One reiterates that he is NOT losing in Seattle, Washington! Will Darby defend home turf against Captain Charisma?

Nick Wayne speaks.

He knows Darby has a lot to say about Christian Cage, and all of that will be part of the Countdown special. But Nick also knows Darby’s actions will speak louder than his words at WrestleDream. And although Darby told Nick not to be there ringside, Nick doesn’t really want to anyway because of what Christian & Luchasaurus are capable of. So, while they let Christian and Darby settle their business, how about Nick and Luchasaurus settle theirs? For months and months, Luchasaurus walked around here while another man held his title. And Luchasaurus followed Christian around like he was some kind of father figure.

And Nick isn’t sure what it is about Christian where he thinks he can even be such a figure to “us Lost Boys,” but Nick had a father. And he told Nick at a young age “to never leave your debts unpaid.” Nick owes Luchasaurus. At Wembley Stadium, Luchasaurus choke slammed Nick onto a skateboard and Nick never forgot it. Nick will repay Luchasaurus this Sunday during Zero Hour. And Nick will even hand Luchasaurus a receipt. Nick brings his own skateboard, will he grind it right into the Right Hand of Destruction?

BREAKING NEWS for Collision!

AEW is going to do it big for WrestleDream Eve as, with Zack Sabre Jr. on commentary, we see an 8 Man Tag! FTR teams with Bryan Danielson & Wheeler Yuta to take on Aussie Open, Ricky Starks & “Big Bill” Morrissey! Plus, Chris Jericho & Kenny Omega test their tag team chemistry against The Gates of Agony! Will The Ocho & The Cleaner survive Toa Liona & Bishop Kaun to take on the Don Callis Family? And Julia Hart gets in action to build some last minute momentum, will she be ready for Kris Statlander and their TBS Championship match set for Sunday?

Backstage interview with Zack Sabre Jr.

Renee Paquette is with The Front Man of TMDK, and says we’re just days away from WrestleDream, where ZSJ takes on The American Dragon, Bryan Danielson. ZSJ just came off a three week tour in NJPW and just got here to the States, is he worried at all about acclimating? ZSJ asks Bryan “Dragon Bullocks” Danielson, “Where are you, darling?” As Renee just said, ZSJ got off a 16 hour flight from Tokyo and is feeling fresh as a daisy. But perhaps this company’s keeping Bryan wrapped head to toe in bubble wrap, or keeps him in a giant Zorb ball. At this point, a strong gust of wind will knock Bryan over.

And is ZSJ supposed to be honored that Bryan chose him as part of the year long retirement tour? Newsflash: Bryan barely has a weekend. This Sunday isn’t just about finding out who the best technical wrestler is, no no. Bryan has retired once in Seattle, so ZSJ will make it final. Ya like that? The final retirement~! Submissions in Seattle, see you on Sunday. The NJPW World Television Champion has put Bryan on notice, but will he be able to slay the American Dragon?

AEW Women’s World Championship #1 Contender’s match: Ruby Soho VS Hikaru Shida!

While the Outcasts stand at two members, Saraya is looking forward to a friendly showdown with the Runaway in a little under two weeks! But will Ruby make sure there is No Future for the Shining Samurai? Or will Shida take down one Outcast to go after another?

The bell rings and the two circle. Fans fire up as Ruby and Shida step up, and they’re on Shida’s side. Ruby shoves, runs, and RAMS Shida, but Shida just fires up! Ruby headlocks, Shida throws body shots, and then she powers out. Shida then runs past Ruby to run Ruby over! Fans duel, Shida has the majority, and she goes to the corner. Shida climbs up but Ruby slips away before any fists can rain down! Shida is annoyed but she waits on Ruby to return. Ruby takes her time going to the apron, steps in at 6 of 10 but wants Shida to stay back. Shida gets annoyed as the ref keeps her back, but then Ruby pulls Shida’s hair to throw her down!

Ruby throws hands, puts Shida in the corner, then RAMS into her again and again! Fans boo but Ruby runs, only to miss! Shida ROCKS Ruby, then climbs up to rain down fists! Ruby gets away before three, runs back in but into a BOOT! Shida bumps Ruby off buckles, climbs up and rains down those fists! Ruby slips out at five to YANK Shida down! Ruby whips, Shida goes up and CROSSBODIES! Shida then drags Ruby up, puts her in yet another corner, and tries one more time! Shida rains down fists, and goes all the way to TEN! Fans fire up with Shida and she kicks Ruby out, to then MISSILE DROPKICK!

Fans fire up as Shida drags Ruby up, and Rampage goes picture in picture.

Ruby CLUBS away on Shida to stop the lift, then shoves her to a corner. Ruby runs in, Shida dodges, but Ruby ELBOWS her! Ruby goes up to hit DEADLY NIGHTSHADE! Ruby digs Shida into the buckles, lets off as the ref counts, and then brings Shida up to snapmare. Ruby covers, TWO! Ruby throws down fists now, but lets off with a smug smirk. Ruby puts Shida on ropes to CHOKE! The ref counts, Ruby lets off, and then Ruby has Shida in the ropes to throw knees! A shoutout to Saraya, and Ruby lets off at 4. Ruby stalks Shida, looms over her, and pushes her around. Shida pushes back but Ruby eggs her on.

Shida ROCKS Ruby, then fires again! Ruby claws Shida’s face! And throws her down by her hair again! The ref reprimands, but Ruby clamps on a straitjacket stretch! Shida endures, but Ruby grinds her into the mat! Fans rally, Shida fights up, and she arm-drags free! Ruby returns to CLOBBER Shida! Cover, TWO! Ruby is annoyed but Shida grabs at Ruby’s hair! Ruby CLUBS Shida, drags her up, and stomps a hand! Shida scrambles to a corner while the ref reprimands but Ruby stomps a mudhole in. Ruby lets off as the ref counts, and Ruby storms around. Shida drags herself up, but Ruby CHOKES her on the ropes!

The ref counts while Ruby BITES Shida’s ear! Ruby lets off at 4, drags Shida up, but Shida ROCKS her! And again! And again! And again! But Ruby knees low! Ruby talks trash, whips Shida to ropes, but Shida ducks ‘n’ dodges, and DOUBLE LARIATS knock both women down! Rampage returns to single picture as the standing count climbs. Fans rally, both women are down at 5 of 10 but Shida goes to ropes. Shida snarls, she and Ruby stand at 7, and they storm up. Shida fires a forearm, Ruby gives it back! Shida throws another, so Ruby gives it back! They go back and forth, harder and harder, faster and faster!

Ruby gets the edge, but Shida ROCKS her! And ROCKS her! And ROCKS her again! Shida whips to JUMP KNEE! Shida then suplexes high and hard! Cover, TWO! Shida fires up again and the fans are with her! Shida aims, KATA- NO, Ruby ducks and bails out! Fans boo but Shida goes out to pursue! Shida runs in, jumps off the steps, and DROPKICKS Ruby down! Fans fire up again and Shida stands Ruby up. Shida torture racks Ruby, then goes to the ramp!? Fans are thunderous but Ruby fights free! They throw forearms, and CHOPS! Shida CLUBS Ruby, Ruby throws body shots, but the count is climbing!

They both hear it’s 8 of 10 and start sprinting! They both slide in at 9.5!! Fans are thunderous and then Ruby swings, but Shida blocks! Ruby HEADBUTTS, blocks a kick, then KICKS back! SAIDO! Cover, TWO! Shida survives and Ruby grows frustrated. Ruby goes to a corner, and she takes Shida’s kendo stick for her own! The ref stops Ruby, takes the kendo stick, but then Ruby brings out the spray paint! Shida and the ref both block that and they’re all fighting over it! Down goes the ref!! Shida and Ruby are both stunned, but then Ruby HEADBUTTS! DESTINATION UNKNOWN! But no ref to count the cover!

Ruby is furious, she would’ve had this! But then she sees the kendo stick! Ruby grins as she wields Shida’s weapon! Fans boo, but Shida blocks the strike to kick and HEADSHOT! Then KATANA KICK!! Cover, but still no ref! Wait, here comes Aubrey! Aubrey slides in, counts the cover, TWO!! Ruby survives but Shida fires up! Shida puts Ruby in a drop zone, goes up the corner, and she METE- NO! Ruby dodges to then STO! Ruby drags herself up the corner, goes to the very top, and STAGE DIVE SENTONS onto knees! And then FALCON ARROW! Cover, TWO!! Ruby survives but Shida won’t stop there!

Shida hauls Ruby up but Ruby wrenches to NO FUTURE KICK! But Shida rebounds to KATANA!! Cover, Shida wins!!

Winner: Hikaru Shida, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the AEW Women’s World Champion)

The Shining Samurai takes down The Runaway, but wait! Here comes Saraya! #TitleTuesday is coming, will that be a good Knight for the champ? Or will Shida take this belt back to become a historic THREE-TIME champion?

My Thoughts:

A great Rampage, especially as the go-home to WrestleDream. I figured the title matches would end with the champions retaining, but we got really good stuff out of Acclaimed VS Hardy Party and Eddie VS Rocky. As for their title defenses on WrestleDream, I don’t see TMDK taking the trios titles as this will be their AEW debuts. And as I’ve said a few times already, Eddie isn’t losing both belts he worked so hard to have so soon. Plus, it feels like there’s some tension between NJPW the company and Shibata, or else Shibata would already be NJPW Strong Openweight Champion and not one of ROH’s champs.

Speaking of Eddie, good promo from him before his match with Rocky, and good interaction with Team Triple J. I wasn’t exactly expecting Jay Lethal to be Eddie’s first actual feud for the ROH World Championship, but I suppose it does make sense as Lethal was a major player in ROH. I hope these guys actually show up on ROH programming, but also, Tony Khan wants this feud to be seen so it’ll end up on AEW programming instead. Y’know, just like all these other ROH title stories outside of the AEW Women’s title.

Good squash from The Righteous, and I’m really curious as to how the tag title match goes on Sunday. There’s a lot of stuff MJF still has to do with Cole, Roddy and The Kingdom, and now this intrigue with Jay White, Bullet Club Gold and the backstage attack at the end of Dynamite. I still feel it should’ve been The Kingdom in the PPV match anyway, but it seems they were going to drag this story out even before Cole hurt his foot. Good promo from Nick Wayne to call out Luchasaurus, but I feel like Luchasaurus ends up winning that match just to make a point of Nick not being able to show up ringside for Darby.

Good promo from Andrade to call out Juice for this week’s Collision, and I’m still wondering if/when La Faccion Ingobernable helps Andrade against Bullet Club Gold. For that matter, why can’t MJF be paying LFI to beat up on White and the BCG? He’s had business dealings with Andrade & Rush before, let’s strike that up again for some continuity. Really good promo from Aussie Open ahead of their tag title match, and from ZSJ to call out Bryan. That 8 Man Tag tomorrow night is going to be good stuff, and perhaps rather telling about where the PPV matches go. The only reason I don’t see Aussie Open winning against FTR is because of that big Fatal 4 Way tag contenders match, but who knows, maybe Aussie Open wins to bring the AEW belts to NJPW events as they take on like Goto & Hashi.

And of course, a great main event from Shida and Ruby. Seems a little silly to set up Ruby as a contender, wouldn’t that just end up in a Finger Poke of Doom situation with Saraya? Which therefore meant Shida was winning. Saraya VS Shida for this Title Tuesday Dynamite is going to be good stuff, but something makes me feel like Ruby is just gonna help Saraya retain. And not to be mean to Shida, but if she’s already a two-time champ, I don’t see her becoming three-time so soon. Why not get Shida in on the TBS Championship story? Britt Baker wants to be the first to have held both titles in AEW, but Shida should want that distinction, too. Then that lets us have Britt VS Shida as we should’ve gotten by now given everything else we’ve been seeing lately.

My Score: 8.7/10

Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!

Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (9/29/23)

King VS Emperor to determine a champion!

Published

23 hours ago

September 29, 2023

Steven Mitchell

One way or another, the US title belongs to the LWO!

Rey Mysterio defends his WWE United States Championship against friend and protege, Santos Escobar! But will things stay friendly between them?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

Jimmy Uso w/ The Bloodline VS Karl Anderson; Jimmy wins.
Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS Cameron Grimes; Theory wins.
WWE United States Championship: Rey Mysterio VS Santos Escobar; Rey wins and retains the title.
Charlotte Flair VS Bayley w/ Damage CTRL; Charlotte wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

The Bloodline is here!

Fans boo as Jimmy Uso, Solo Sikoa & Paul Heyman head to the ring. And Jimmy is definitely hyped over how he and Solo took down AJ Styles and John Cena, putting the tag team match at Fastlane into question. Heyman has the mic to introduce himself, but the fans keep on booing. His name isn’t “Boo,” he’s Paul! Heyman! And tonight, a rare opportunity that he doesn’t have to do this into the phone but live to the world here from SmackDown, in the hell hole of Sacramento, California. “We ACKNOWLEDGE our Tribal Chief!” The Bloodline throws up the ones, and Heyman says, “And so do each and every single one of you!”

The fans boo, though some do raise the fingers. Heyman asks us why do they acknowledge Roman… Reigns? Because it is in Roman’s name that last week, the second greatest of all time, John Cena, took a beating at the hands of the Bloodline in a way Cena hasn’t taken in at least a decade. And to wit, Heyman calls our attention to the Bloodline version of the Zapruder Film. Heyman plays footage from just last week, where Cena was the only one who signed the contract to have a match for Fastlane. Cena hoped AJ Styles was going to be his partner, but then the Bloodline struck first and hospitalized AJ Styles.

And back to present, fans are booing but Jimmy’s almost cracking up. Heyman says not to get involved in Cena’s business, but a little birdie told Heyman that there are some transportation issues this evening. And while Cena is expected to make it here, you can’t see him because Cena is NOT here. But y’know who else ain’t here? AJ Styles! And why is that? Because he’s lying in a hospital bed, watching them on SmackDown and- Jimmy holds his hand out for the mic? Heyman says he wasn’t done but Jimmy snatches the mic. “Sacramento! The Bloodline is now in your city!” Heyman sighs while Jimmy raises the one.

Jimmy tells the Wise Man, you are too kind. The real reason Cena isn’t here tonight is because he’s scared! Scared of one JIM USO! Jimmy says if Cena is smart, he’ll stay far, far away. If not, they’ll take care of him like they did the Phenomenal One! The one who built the house, place, face- KARL ANDERSON CLOBBERS SOLO! Then he TACKLES Jimmy! Jimmy gets up but Karl clotheslines him up and out! Fans fire up for Karl as he represents for The OC! Karl says he told Styles not to get in Bloodline business and now Styles is in the hospital. So now, this is OC business! Any one of them, get in the ring with him!

Fans fire up but Heyman has Solo stand down. Heyman whispers things to The Enforcer, and then Solo tells Jimmy to handle this or he’ll do it for him. Jimmy says he’s got this. Solo doesn’t return the high-five, but will Jimmy return fire on the Machine Gun?

Jimmy Uso w/ The Bloodline VS Karl Anderson!

SmackDown returns and the match is going as Karl bumps Jimmy off buckles! Then CHOPS! And fires off haymakers! The ref counts, Karl lets off but then stomps a mudhole! Karl lets off to tell Heyman & Solo they made this personal. Karl stands Jimmy up but Jimmy swings. Karl dodges to JUMP KICK! Karl says he told Styles not to get involved but too late now. Karl whips, Jimmy BOOTS back! Jimmy runs, but Karl gives him a SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Heyman is worried but Solo is stoic as Jimmy survives. Karl storms up on Jimmy, UPPERCUTS him to the corner, then UPPERCUTS again!

Karl brings Jimmy up to the top rope, ROCKS him with rights, then climbs. Solo steps forward and that distracts Karl, as well as the ref. Jimmy CLAWS Karl’s eyes! The ref misses it but fans boo as Jimmy rains down fists on Karl. Jimmy snarls, goes to a corner, and he SUPERKICKS Karl down! Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and scowls at the booing fans before the USO SPLASH! Cover, Jimmy wins!

Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall

Heyman is relieved and he whispers something more to Solo. Jimmy may be getting himself into trouble, but he’s also getting himself out, will this get Jimmy back in the Bloodline?

Wait, Karl isn’t done! He gets up to throw more hands with Jimmy! Solo storms in to hit the SAMOAN SPIKE! Solo roars as Karl is down, no back-up even possible with both Styles and Gallows hurt. Is the OC no longer a problem for The Bloodline? Wait, Michin is here! She SLAPS Jimmy right down! Fans are thunderous as she storms to the ring. Jimmy asks what the heck! Mia Yim packs a punch, will that knock some sense into Jimmy?

Backstage interview with Santos Escobar.

Cathy Kelley is with The Emperor of Lucha, and says that he faces his mentor and LWO teammate, Rey Mysterio. Where is his mind at tonight? Santos says his mind is focused, but his stomach has butterflies. But this match is about heart. And Santos has already said this is a dream match for him, and he has been working his entire life for it. Now, with the whole world watching, he has a chance to make the dream come true. He never gives up on his dreams, and he will fight for them, so Rey is in for the fight of his life. May the best man win. Will it be Emperor or King of Lucha that reigns as the United States Champion?

The Bloodline regroups backstage.

Jimmy is fuming and he yells at a production staff member just for looking at him. He asks another if they saw what happened, then just shoves the guy down! Jimmy storms off, Solo follows and Heyman has the staff relax. Then he puts in a call to Roman Reigns. What will The Tribal Chief have to say about Jimmy’s attitude?

It’s an all new Grayson Waller Effect.

The Aussie Icon, the Moment Maker, the Dynamite From Down Under is already in the ring on his set, and he says what a wild night already. Cena may be the greatest of all time, but he ain’t the greatest at being on time! Hah! But don’t worry, because Waller is here to save the show. Fans boo but Waller thanks them. Waller’s guests just keep getting bigger, and this is literal given the physical specimen. He has done everything in the WWE as a performer, but not as a talent scout. But that’s alright, he gets what he’s always been missing: the Waller rub! Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the All Mighty Bobby Lashley!

Fans cheer as Lashley makes his way out and Waller does some push-ups so he looks at least a little bigger standing next to him. They shake hands and then sit at the desk. Waller says he wasn’t lying when the guests keep getting bigger, right? How does he fit into the suit? But Waller appreciates Lashley being on the show, especially after the week he’s had. His boys, the Street Profits had a devastating loss last week. Lashley says he made a mistake. He was looking for the next big thing, he thought the Profits had what it takes to do whatever they want, but seems not. Back to the drawing board, huh?

Wow, that must be hard for the Profits to hear. But yeah, if you’re looking for a tag team, they need to be willing to do whatever it takes. A team with unbridled charisma! A team that is undefeated! Maybe a team like Austin Theory & Grayson Waller! Lashley’s stare makes Waller slow his roll. Lashley knows all about Theory, that’s a pass. Yeah, but Theory’s changed! If you get to know him, he’s a good bloke! And- Wait! Here come the Street Profits! Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins came dressed to match Lashley, and Lashley seems rather upset and confused. The Profits step into the ring, mics in their hands.

Lashley steps to them, and he stops Dawkins before he gets started. No excuses, no reasons. If they want something out of Lashley, they need to prove it. Lashley goes to leave, and then the Profits look to each other. They storm out after Lashley and get up in his face! Lashley says he told them what to do. Now go do it. He keeps on moving, and Waller says how awkward. Hey, light the beam for the 153 million hit man, Austin Theory! Theory makes his entrance, walking past Lashley on the stage, and then continues down the ramp. He smirks at the Profits and goes to the steps, with Waller being the only one cheering.

But will it be A-Town Down as Theory faces Cameron Grimes? Or will SmackDown go TO~ THE~ MOON~?

Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS Cameron Grimes!

SmackDown returns, Theory is busy looking at NXT’s Dragon Lee watching from the front row, and the bell rings. Theory turns around into a BOOT from Grimes! Grimes fires off KICKS, UPPERCUTS, and then CHOPS! Grimes whips, Theory reverses but Grimes CLOBBERS Theory! Grimes keeps moving and he CLOBBERS Theory again! Atomic drop, then KICK! Then a KICK, run, and SHOTGUN dropkick! Cover, ONE! Another cover, ONE! Theory scrambles, Grimes has the leg, and Grimes drags Theory back. Theory kicks free, Waller coaches Theory up and Theory ELBOWS Grimes! And throat chops!

Theory throws down clubbing hands while fans boo, but Theory shouts at everyone. Theory brings Grimes up, talks trash, but Grimes eggs him on! Grimes fires off fists, body shots, then backs Theory to a corner. Grimes whips, Theory reverses, then Theory runs in. Theory blocks a boot but Grimes ENZIGURIS! Grimes goes up, leaps, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Theory hangs tough and Waller relaxes. Grimes aims, and he BUZZ- NO, Theory ducks! So Grimes backflips to deadlift GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Theory survives but Grimes storms up on him in the corner. Grimes KICKS Theory against ropes!

Grimes runs, then he clotheslines Theory out of the ring! Grimes goes to the apron, and he PENALTY KICKS Theory down! Fans fire up with the Carolina Caveman as he takes it to Mr. ATL. Waller talks trash, though, and Grimes stares him down. Theory POSTS Grimes in the distraction! Waller laughs, Theory drags Grimes up and in, and then Theory slingshots. Somersault SHOTGUN! Grimes staggers into the fireman’s carry, A-TOWN DOWN! Cover, Theory wins!

Winner: Austin Theory, by pinfall

Waller’s a baller with that assist to his boy, and The Now comes out on top! Will these two look to take over SmackDown one win at a time? Theory also talks some trash on Dragon, then pie faces him! So Dragon hits back! Fans fire up but the ref keeps Theory back. Dragon is here as a guest, but Waller says Dragon can’t do nothing anyway. Will this duo hope Boy Wonder stays away from this brand?

Backstage interview with Rey Mysterio.

Kayla Braxton is with the US Champion and says earlier tonight, Santos said this wasn’t just a dream match, but the fight of their lives. What is Rey’s response? Rey says LWO is familia and will always be that. But he knows how hard Santos has worked to get here. Heck, Rey grew up watching Santos’ father, El Fantasma. So Rey has nothing but love and respect for Santos. But be careful what you wish for. Every time Rey steps in the ring, he expects the best of his opponent and brings the best in return. So Santos, like they say, this IS the fight of their lives! May the best man win. Rey seems to feel the same way as Santos, but will either man still feel good after taking a loss?

The Bloodline is beating up Ashante THEE Adonis?!

B-Fab shouts for Jimmy to stop but Jimmy stops when he says he’s stopping! Refs and producers rush in and Jimmy says okay, his bad, he’s done now. Adonis crawls away, but Solo is there! Jimmy says finish this, Solo! UREANGE through the table!! Hit Row suffers the wrath of The Bloodline, but when and where will it stop?

WWE United States Championship: Rey Mysterio VS Santos Escobar!

SmackDown returns as Zelina is ringside for both men, and Santos makes his entrance. Santos says hola to Dragon before getting in the ring. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who holds gold for the L W O!

The bell rings and fans fire up as the two tie up. They go around, Santos waistlocks but Rey works on an escape. Santos holds tight, they sit down, and Rey moves around. Rey fights up, jumps, but Santos holds on during the flying mare! Santos shifts to go for an abdominal stretch but Rey fights it to have a toehold. Fans rally and duel, Santos chinlocks but Rey pulls on the leg. Santos uses that to body scissor, and he rolls Rey to a cover, ONE! Rey is still stuck in the scissors but he moves around. Rey claws at the hold, Santos shifts and has the back mount to then roll Rey again. Rey slips free and the two stand off.

Fans cheer as Rey and Santos reset. Santos trips Rey, blocks the headscissor, but Rey gets up. Santos wrenches, wristlocks, but Rey flips through! Santos whips, Rey reverses but Santos reverses again. Rey is on the apron but he RAMS into Santos! Rey slingshots but Santos stops the rana to GAMANGIRI! Rey falls, Santos PLANCHAS! Down goes Rey at the ramp and Zelina is worried for both men as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Santos has Rey in a modified stretch. Rey endures, Santos shifts his grip, but Rey fights free. Santos has a hammerlock to keep Rey close, and Santos wrangles Rey down. Rey fights up, fans rally, and Rey jumps to hit that flying-mare! Fans fire up as Santos speeds things up and runs Rey over! Things keep moving, Rey dodges but Santos DROPKICKS him down! Cover, TWO! Fans rally as Rey hangs tough, and Zelina is again torn. She rallies the fans more for the LWO than for either man. Santos waistlocks, Rey switches, but Santos switches back. They go to ropes and Rey bucks the O’Conner.

Rey ducks ‘n’ dodges and tilt-o-whirls to RANA Santos outta the ring! Fans fire up and Rey builds speed, goes up the corner to PLANCHA! Down goes Santos! Fans fire up with Rey and he hears the ring count. Rey drags Santos up, puts him in at 6 of 10, and then climbs the corner. Santos stands, Rey SEATED SENTONS! Rey keeps moving, and he CLOBBERS Santos! Both men are down and fans rally up more. But wait, Jimmy and Solo are still wreaking havoc backstage? SAMOAN SPIKE for security! Jimmy says that guy won’t be Cena’s partner, either! Back to the ring, fans rally for “619! 619!” as Rey goes to ropes.

Santos stands, he rushes in to sunset flip, but Rey rolls through to BUZZSAW! Santos is dazed, Rey calls his shot and he drop toeholds Santos onto ropes! Rey dials it up as fans go wild, but Santos SUPERKICKS Rey outta the ring! Santos takes aim, builds speed, ARROW FROM HELL!! Direct hit at the ramp and down goes Rey! Santos catches his breath while he stands back up, and then he goes up the barriers? To MOONSAULT Rey on the ramp! Zelina is worried again but Santos puts Rey back in the ring. Rey staggers and goes to the far side but Santos takes aim. “This is Awesome!” as Santos spells it out, “L! W! O!”

Santos goes corner to corner, DOUBLE KNEES! Rey wobbles, but Santos puts him back in the corner. Santos goes again, DOUBLE KNEES! Santos hoists Rey up top, climbs up after him, but Rey HEADBUTTS! Rey fires forearms and he knocks Santos down! Santos stands up while Rey steadies himself, but Santos GAMANGIRIS first! Santos climbs up again, goes to the very top, and he whistles for the SUPER STEINER! Zelina couldn’t even watch that, worried for both men. Santos goes to the apron, to SLINGSHOT SPLASH! Cover, TWO!! Rey survives and Santos is a bit surprised as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns yet again and Santos has Rey against ropes. Santos CHOPS, and fans “WOO~!” as Rey staggers. Santos whips, BOOTS, and then brings Rey around. Santos picks Rey up into a GORY ESPECIAL! Rey endures being bent back, and Santos even pulls on the arms! Fans rally, Rey fights against the hold, and pops free to arm-drag! Fans fire up as REy goes to a corner, and Santos runs in, only to be put on the apron! Santos GAMANGIRIS, Rey staggers, and then Santos fires up! Santos climbs, leaps, but Rey dodges and the crossbody flops! Rey lines up a shot, runs and springboards but then Santos dodges!

Rey and Santos are both down after those belly flops, and fans rally as both men rise up. Santos runs in, scoops Rey and hits a BACKBREAKER! Fans rally as Rey staggers up, but into a tilt-o-whirl torture rack! Santos runs around with Rey, then hits a RACK DROP! Cover, TWO!! Zelina is relieved again but Santos is surprised. Rey tells Santos to bring it on, there needs to be a winner. Santos storms up to CHOP! And whip, but Rey KICKS back! Rey runs to RAN- NO, Santos blocks that! Santos swings Rey up but Rey sunset flips! TWO!! Santos escapes and even Zelina is stunned! Fans fire up again, “This is Awesome!”

Rey runs in, Santos puts him on the apron but Rey ROCKS Santos first! Then Rey goes up a corner, brings Santos up to join him, and then adjusts position to fire off hands! Fans fire up as Rey calls the shot, but Santos drags Rey into a fireman’s carry! Rey fights with elbows, then pops up to SUPER RANA!! Fans are thunderous while Santos sits up in a daze! Rey DROPKICKS Santos onto ropes! Dial it up! 6 1 9 BLOCKED! Santos drags Rey into an Alabama Lift! But Rey holds the ropes for dear life! Rey then RANAS Santos back onto ropes, redials, and 619 HITS!!! Rey hurries up top, says hey to Eddie, and hit a FROG- NO!

Santos avoids the splash, CLUBS Rey, covers, TWO into the ghost pin! TWO!!! Both men escape by nanoseconds but Santos fireman’s carries! PHANTOM- TAKEDOWN! Rey has a spladle! REY WINS!!

Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall (still WWE United States Champion)

And the greatest luchador of all time comes out the champion! Santos is stunned, but Rey offers him a handshake of respect. They are still familiar, aren’t they? WAIT! The Profits attack!! Dawkins & Ford mug Rey & Santos, this must be how they’re proving Lashley wrong! They hit Escobar with a BIG LARIAT! Fans boo but here comes Lashley! The All Mighty says that’s it! That’s what he wanted! But then here comes the rest of the LWO! Lashley CLOBBERS Wilde while Ford & Dawkins mug Cruz! But Dragon Lee wants to get in! Security keeps him back, he’s just here as a guest! So Wilde is fed to the REVELATION!

The fans boo but The All Mighty has his Profits! Will they soon run SmackDown with iron fists?

The LWO regroups.

They’ve all got icepacks in the medical trainer’s room, and Kayla walks in to congratulate Rey on the win. But before the team could celebrate the moment, they got jumped by The Profits. Santos says sorry, excuse him, but the Profits ruined the moment! Rey says they beat the Profits last week, and now Lashley and them act like they run SmackDown! LWO challenges Lashley & The Profits to a match at Fastlane! Let’s see how tough they are when it’s fair and square! What will happen when these factions go to war in Indianapolis?

WWE announces a huge signing!

Former AEW TBS Champion and rising star, JADE CARGILL, is now with WWE! She got 20 MILLION views on a video just for showing up at the Performance Center! Will a storm be coming for the WWE Women’s Division?

John Cena arrives backstage!

He pulls in rather fast and furious, and he storms right into the arena, that tag match contract in his hands! Will Cena find someone Jimmy & Solo haven’t destroyed to sign on the dotted line? Is there even anyone left?

Pretty Deadly has a video message.

“On July 14th, 2023, Elton prince suffered a devastating shoulder injury. Despite all odds, he is on the road to recovery.” It’s another rehab workout montage, but Elton is still in the wheelchair… Elton works on reaching out for hot tags, swinging chairs, ends up rolling downhill during a celebration, and can’t even poke eyes properly. But as he continues to work at it, he has the courage to stand up and tag in Kit! #YESBOY! #EltonStrong.

The Brawling Brutes are watching this.

Ridge Holland and Pete Dunne look at each other, and neither of them can even process this. Dunne feels maybe they should’ve broken Elton’s leg. The idiots. Will Elton & Kit hope they can stay far, far, far away from Northern Grit and the Bruiserweight?

Charlotte Flair VS Bayley w/ Damage CTRL!

The Queen did what she could to help The Empress of Tomorrow hold off the Evil Genius and her cohorts, but all that got them was a win for Iyo Sky and this rivalry rematch with the Role Model! Will Bayley make an example out of her fellow Horsewoman? Or will Charlotte make Bayley bow down?

SmackDown returns and Bayley makes her entrance, Iyo and Dakota right behind her. But then Charlotte has Bayley hold on so she can get a mic. Charlotte has a question for Bayley: What’s happened to you? Bayley is one of the Four Horsewomen, but now she’s just happy carrying Iyo’s bags. Bayley has become a stepping stone while Charlotte is still the measuring stick. And in the end, it doesn’t matter. Bayley is just in Charlotte’s way. She’ll beat Bayley tonight, and then challenge Iyo for the WWE Women’s Championship at Fastlane! Fans fire up for that, and the bell rings. Bayley CLOBBERS Charlotte!

Bayley fires off, all riled up after what Charlotte said. DMG CTRL cheers and high-fives Bayley. Bayley CHOPS Charlotte, bumps her off buckles, then stomps a mudhole in! Bayley ROCKS Charlotte, lets off, and brings Charlotte around to whip. But Charlotte reverses to send Bayley into the corner, and she CHOPS! Fans “WOO~!” and Charlotte CHOPS again! Charlotte whips, Bayley reverses but Charlotte goes up and out to BOOT Bayley down! Iyo swipes at Charlotte, then Bayley BLASTS Charlotte down! Bayley goes out to the apron, to then FLYING ELBOW Charlotte down! DMG CTRL is fired up as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Charlotte is up top, to CROSSBODY Bayley down! Fans fire up with Charlotte as she storms around. Bayley flounders to ropes, stands up, and Charlotte CHOPS her! And CHOPS her! And CHOPS her! And then CHOPS again! Fans fire up as Charlotte says one more, then CHOPS Bayley again! Charlotte swings, Bayley dodges but Charlotte scoops! FALL AWAY SLAM! Charlotte kips up and fans fire up again! Charlotte handsprings to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Bayley is still in this but Charlotte knows she’s tough. Bayley bails out to the apron, Charlotte storms over, but Bayley HOTSHOTS!

Bayley slides in, waistlocks, but Charlotte bucks the O’Conner, to then trip Bayley! Bayley scrambles, Charlotte steps over to drop a knee on Bayley’s knee! Bayley goes to a corner and Charlotte GAMANGIRIS! Bayley staggers, but she BOOTS back! But then Charlotte BOOTS back! Cover, TWO! Charlotte keeps her cool while the fans rally up. Charlotte steps on Bayley and goes to the corner, then goes up the corner, only for Bayley to YANK her down! Bayley puts Charlotte in the ropes, throw hands, then hits a STOCK DROP! Shoutout to another of the Horsewomen! Bayley then SUNSET BOMBS Charlotte into buckles! Bayley drags Charlotte to a cover, TWO!

Bayley tells fans to shut up, don’t cheer for her! Dakota and Iyo cheer her on, though, and Bayley fires forearms on Charlotte! Bayley mocks the “WOO~!” then CHOPS! Bayley CHOPS Charlotte again and again, runs, but Charlotte SPEARS her down! Cover, Charlotte wins!!

Winner: Charlotte Flair, by pinfall

DMG CTRL can’t believe it, but their Role Model lost! The Queen is already wearing yellow ‘n’ block to match Fastlane’s logo, will she take that gold off Iyo? Bayley gets a mic to shout, “Cut the music, you idiots!” Bayley won’t let Charlotte just cut the line! Bayley vowed to end Charlotte, and that’s what DMG CTRL is gonna do! The three surround the ring, but here comes ASUKA! The Empress joins the Queen to run off their common enemies! Asuka gets a mic to shout “OI OI OI OI!” What do you idiots think you’re doing?! She won’t let them do whatever they want! Bayley says okay, they want a Triple Threat for the women’s title?! Then they’ve got it!!

Wait, what? Iyo is confused, but Bayley says this is totally what Asuka said. No, Iyo knows what Asuka said and it wasn’t that! But Bayley says this is so they can teach both Asuka and Charlotte a lesson! Bayley sticks her foot in Iyo’s mouth again, will the Evil Genius have to really work hard on a plan to survive Fastlane?

John Cena heads to the ring!

Sacramento fires up as Cena storms out, saying we’re getting serious tonight! Cena slides into the ring, contract still in hand. Cena also gets a mic, and he tells Sacramento, “I hear ya out there!” Sacramento chants for Cena and so he knows they hear him. And he knows that because last week, he said he was back to compete and that he wanted a match. The Bloodline didn’t take too kindly to that, though. They left Cena knocked out, but they also left him with the contract. This is the contract for a match with them at Fastlane. Yeah, a little lukewarm, because there’s a problem: Cena doesn’t have a partner.

Cena says tonight is very important, because now he has a choice to make. He could rip up the contract and act like this didn’t happen. Fans boo that idea. Or he could stand and fight. The fans like that! So what do you think the man who wears the words “Never Give Up” is gonna make? They cheer the second so he says that’s damn right! He will honor this contract! And if he doesn’t find a partner by Fastlane, then he will fight The Bloodline by himself in a 2v1 Handicap! But speaking of, here comes The Bloodline! Jimmy grins as he has the mic again. “Well, look who finally showed up.”

Cena’s out here talking about Fastlane? Did he not just see what The Bloodline’s been doing all night? They were sending messages! If you team with Cena, you get got by The Bloodline! Fans boo, but Jimmy goes to the apron to tell Cena, “You’re not making it to Fastlane!” But then Cena DECKS Jimmy! Solo stares Cena down, fans fire up, and Solo gets in the ring! Cena throws off the shirt because it is go time! Solo swings, misses, and Cena fireman’s carries, but Jimmy SUPERKICKS him! Flashbacks to last week, HIP ATTACK in the corner! Then Solo adds a HIP ATTACK in the corner! Then Jimmy whips Solo in for another HIP ATTACK!

Fans boo as Cena flops out of the ring. The Bloodline clears off the announce desk! They put Cena on it, and Jimmy raises the one. Jimmy goes up the steps but Solo stops him. Solo wants this one! Jimmy grins and nods and lets Solo climb. But L A KNIGHT is here!! Fans are thunderous as the Mega Star storms down, slides in, and he dodges Jimmy to BLAST Solo! And then he BLASTS Jimmy! Knight stomps a mudhole into Jimmy but Solo stops him! So Knight fires off haymakers! Solo TOSSES Knight, but misses the splash! JUMP NECKBREAKER! Jimmy is up, Knight scoops to POWERSLAM!

Fans fire up, and they spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BIG elbow drop for Jimmy! Cena is back and he TOSSES Solo! Knight TOSSES Jimmy! Mega Star and Greatest of All Time look to each other, and Knight picks up the contract! Fans are electric as Knight signs his name! Cena can’t believe it, either! He has a tag partner for Fastlane? YEAH!! Will Cena and Knight show The Bloodline whose game is it? With EVERYBODY saying… L A KNIGHT, YEAH!!

My Thoughts:

An awesome episode of SmackDown, especially with how fired up the Sacramento crowd was for everything. Great stuff with Bloodline and such, taking logical yet still exciting turns. Karl Anderson going after The Bloodline was good, because as much as Karl didn’t want Styles getting involved, but he also wasn’t going to let The Bloodline get away with this. Though, Karl didn’t really accomplish much as he got cheated in that match. That slap from Mia was great, though. Then Jimmy & Solo going on a rampage backstage was a great way to show how Jimmy is drunk with power all because he thinks Roman will have his back. Roman most certainly won’t now that Jimmy’s actions have brought LA Knight into the story. Great save from Knight, and he will make a great team with Cena.

Great “main event” match from Charlotte VS Bayley, and that black ‘n’ yellow gear is pretty cool stuff from Charlotte. DMG CTRL of course tries to help Bayley but that backfires. And then I actually like that we’re going back to Bayley talking big and putting Iyo on the spot. The Triple Threat title match is going to be great, and is actually some mad genius thinking from Bayley. DMG CTRL can now legally interfere to make sure Iyo wins against Charlotte and Asuka, but I feel like this can also bring in Shotzi or even Bianca to counteract DMG CTRL. Either way, it’ll be some great stuff to really up things in the SmackDown Women’s Division.

Hilarious vignette from Pretty Deadly, and good response from Brawling Brutes. That feud will definitely start up again after Fastlane and give us a SmackDown contender for the Undisputed Tag Team Championships. Really good stuff out of the Grayson Waller Effect with Lashley putting the pressure on the Profits. Almost thought they were gonna jump Theory since Lashley doesn’t like Theory, but I guess that would make this faction Faces since Theory is Heel. It was nice to see Grimes back, though he does lose to Theory. Dragon Lee being here tonight makes me think he is called up to SmackDown after he screws Dominik Mysterio out of the North American title tomorrow night.

And after just an awesome US Championship match, the Profits instead go after the LWO, a logical move given the back and forth between the factions. LWO wants a Six Man Tag, but does that mean it’ll be Santos, Cruz & Wilde? Or is Rey going to take one of the spots? Either way it’ll be a good time but it feels like the All Mighty Profits are going to take that one to build their momentum towards their own title goals. Lashley VS Rey for the US Championship with Santos helping feels like the move. Maybe there’s tension created as Santos costs Rey, or as Rey says Santos can’t be bending rules just to win. It just feels like something’s going to/has to change in the group dynamic.