Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (2/20/23)
Raw is about respect!
Will The Now really be forever?
Austin Theory is STILL United States Champion after Elimination Chamber, but now things get Rated R as EDGE comes after the title!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Sami Zayn VS Baron Corbin; Sami wins.
- Mustafa Ali VS Dolph Ziggler; Ali wins.
- Asuka VS Nikki Cross; Asuka wins.
- Seth Rollins VS The Miz; Rollins wins.
- Bronson Reed VS Chad Gable w/ Otis; Bronson wins.
- WWE United States Champion: Austin Theory VS Edge; Theory wins and retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
Sami Zayn is here!
Fans fire up as the Honourary Hab, the Great Liberator, and the man who would have beaten Roman Reigns if not for The Bloodline as he heads to the ring. Sami grabs a mic and fans chant his name as the spotlight is on him. Fans then sing, “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE~! OLE~, OLE~!” for him, too. Sami says, “Wow. I’m feeling a lot of feelings here, guys. After these past couple of days, the one feeling that comes to the front more than anything is gratitude. The ovation I’ve been given these past couple of days, and the ovation you guys just gave me just now, you have no idea what means to me. Thank you. Seriously, thank you so much.”
Fans chant, “You Deserve It!” and Sami is touched. Sami says that for him just as much as everyone, another thing he’s feeling is, after coming so close to putting a bow on a storybook ending in front of his hometown, he feels a lot of guilt. He feels like he let people down. Fans say “NO! NO! NO!” because he hasn’t let anyone down. Fans even chant “We Still Love You!” Sami says people told him to “finish the story,” but he didn’t, and after the last few days, he realized now more than ever, “around here, the story is NEVER over! However, we are entering the final chapter. And the final chapter is not just about me. So there’s one person that I do need to talk to more than anybody else.
“So Kevin Owens…! I would love it if you came out here right now.” Fans cheer that, and here comes KO! The Prizefighter joins his best frenemy in the ring, fans cheer him on now, and Kevin gets a mic. Sami says, “There was so much I wanted to say to you, and now that you’re standing here, I don’t know what I want to say. I wanna say… I wanna say thank you, I guess. I wanna say I’m sorry. But I know we’re kinda passed the point of words at this point, right? Let’s be honest, things got a little messy, right? There’s a lot that you said, that I said, that was done here that I don’t know if there’s any coming back from. I know, I know.
“But here’s the thing, Kevin. For months and months, you said there is only one thing that you care about, and that is taking down The Bloodline. And I know you better than anything, when you get something in your head, nothing stops you from doing it. But here’s the thing, Kevin. Now I have a mission. I will make sure, if it’s the last thing I do, I will not rest ’til I see with my own eyes that Roman Reigns and the Bloodline come crumbling down! But here’s the thing. You couldn’t do it alone. And I couldn’t really do it alone. But I do think that there’s only way to get it done. And that is if we do it… together!” Fans love the sound of that!
Kevin seems a bit surprised, and he says he doesn’t need an apology or gratitude. Saturday, what he did, it had nothing to do with Sami. Kevin didn’t do it for Sami, he did it for HIS family. Saturday, they were in the front row. But at the Royal Rumble, they were at home. And Sami stood there and watched it happen. Kevin needed the Bloodline to hurt. Kevin did it for Sami’s family so that his wife, children, father wouldn’t have to watch Sami get beat down! That’s why! Kevin has been fighting The Bloodline for months, on his own. As far as he’s concerned, that’s fine, and that’s the way he will keep fighting them.
Because Kevin still means what he said in November after Survivor Series about being done with Sami. But guess what? If Sami needs help taking them down, then just ask Jey. Kevin drops the mic and leaves while fans boo. Sami watches Kevin go but isn’t upset. Will Sami have to do things on his own, too?
But wait! BARON CORBIN ATTACKS! Corbin throws Sami around as Raw goes picture in picture! Corbin fires off hands, throws Sami into railing, then CLUBS away against barriers! Fans boo and give thumbs down but Corbin throws more hands. Corbin throws Sami back into railing, then tot he floor. Referees hurry on stage to stop Corbin but he goes back for more! Corbin rains down fists, refs back him off, but Sami gets up to go after Corbin! Sami returns fire with furious fists! Corbin trips and falls but gest right back up to CLOBBER Sami! Corbin hobbles but he drags Sami up. Security and officials rush out but Corbin still wants more!
Corbin whips Sami into the LEDs! Sami falls over, Corbin stands over him, but refs tell him to leave. Corbin storms down the ramp to ringside. Corbin soaks up the heat as he walks around the ring, then he gest in the ring. Raw returns to single picture as Corbin has the mic to ask, “How’d that feel?” Corbin says Sami interrupted him to cry about his insecurities, thinking he didn’t deserve to be in the same ring as Roman Reigns. Corbin says Sami didn’t, and Corbin should know, because Corbin is the last person to beat Roman Reigns! Roman embarrassed Sami in front of his family and friends, and tonight was pathetic.
Sami begged his “so-called best friend,” Kevin Owens. Sami wants to get at Corbin but Adam Pearce holds him back. Corbin says Sami’s story is done! Sami embarrassed himself, his hometown, and ALL of Canada! Because Sami is a complete and utter failure! Sami talks with Pearce, Pearce gives Sami the green light! Sami gets in the ring and TACKLES Corbin! Sami rains down fists, Corbin pushes him away, but Sami clotheslines Corbin out of the ring! A ref gets in the ring, this is a match!
Sami Zayn VS Baron Corbin!
The bell rings, Corbin gets up and Sami BLASTS him! Sami goes out to SMACK Corbin off the desk! Fans fire up with Sami and he POSTS Corbin! Sami puts Corbin back in the ring, runs corner to corner, but Corbin bails out! Fans boo but Corbin shoulders in then CLOBBERS Sami! Corbin rains down fists, then rips Sami’s shirt off him. Corbin drags Sami back up and he makes the world look at the bruises and scrapes from Eliminating Chamber’s title match. Corbin CLUBS Sami, shoves him to ropes and CLUBS him again! Corbin stands Sami up, ROCKS him, then shoves him, only for Sami to DECK Corbin!
Sami fires off hands now and whips Corbin to a corner. Corbin reverses, runs in, Sami dodges and Corbin hits buckles! Sami goes up top, for a FLYING- NO, choke grip to CHOKE SLAM BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Sami is still in this as Raw goes back to picture in picture.
Sami bails out of the ring but clutches his back. Corbin goes out after Sami, drags him up, and RAMS him into barriers! The front row cheers Sami on but Corbin puts him in the ring. Corbin stalks Sami, stands over him, then drags him up by his beard! Corbin puts Sami in the corner, whips him corner to corner hard, and Sami bounces off buckles to fall to the mat. Corbin looms over Sami, drags Sami back up, and CLUBS him back down! Corbin CLUBS Sami again, and again, and again, driving his elbow into the bruised back! Sami crawls to a corner, Corbin is on him again and puts him up top.
Corbin throws hands, climbs up after Sami, and he throws hands. Sami hits back with haymakers! Sami CLUBS Corbin, Corbin falls off the corner! Sami adjusts, leaps, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Corbin is still in this, but Sami grits his teeth as he stands. Sami hobbles, but Corbin RAMS him into a corner! Corbin drags Sami around, stomps him, then tells the ref to back off. Corbin runs to SPLASH! And then Corbin hauls Sami up to a Canadian Rack! Raw returns to single picture as Sami endures the backbreaker stretch! Fans rally, Sami fights free, and he elbows Corbin from the corner! Corbin comes back, but into a BOOT!
Sami goes up again, leaps, FLYING ELBOW! Sami goes up another corner, leaps again, another FLYING ELBOW! Ottawa fires up, but Corbin throws body shots! Sami blocks the bomb, wrenches out to kick low, and he goes up and up and FLYING DDT!! Cover, TWO!! Corbin survives but Sami keeps his focus. The fans rally behind him, but Corbin throat chops! Corbin whips, but Sami holds ropes! Sami dumps Corbin out, then builds speed! Sami FLIES! Direct hit and Ottawa is thunderous! Sami fires up, he puts Corbin back in, and Corbin flounders to the corner. Sami aims, runs in, but into a LARIAT!
Sami flounders, but Corbin rains down elbows and forearms on his bruised back! Corbin whips, and DEEP SIX! Cover, TWO!! Sami is still in this and Corbin is shocked! Fans fire up as Sami goes to the corner again. Corbin runs in, and hits a big clothesline! Corbin runs in again, another clothesline! Corbin goes corner to corner, Sami follows, HELLUVA KICK!! Cover, Sami wins!!
Winner: Sami Zayn, by pinfall
Ottawa sings along with Sami’s song as Sami gets redemption! Will Sami’s wish come true come WrestleMania? Will The Bloodline soon fall?
Byron Saxton has a sit-down interview with Rhea Ripley & Dominik Mysterio.
He appreciates them joining him. He wants to ask about Elimination Chamber. What about it? Well, she and Finn Balor faced The Grit Couple and ultimately came up short. Rhea says the last thing she will say about Beth Phoenix is that after going toe to toe, Beth admitted Rhea is the real deal. But for her, she and Beth have unfinished business. But that’s the past, and Rhea is fully focused on WrestleMania. Then does Rhea think that loss- Dom interrupts, saying Mami just said she’s done talking about Edge & Beth. “Those has-beens are just like my deadbeat dad, they’re not worth talking about.
“And Byron, if you keep asking stupid questions, you’re gonna find out what I did to people who talked too much when I was locked up.” In that case, Byron moves to WrestleMania and the SmackDown Women’s Champion, Charlotte Flair. How does Rhea respond to Charlotte saying that three years ago, Charlotte taught Rhea a lesson, but this year, she puts Rhea in her place. “Look, Charlotte can keep living in 2020. The only reason that she wants to keep talking about what happened three years ago is because she refuses to believe what everyone else can see, and that’s that right now, in the present, I am the best bloody woman here in the WWE.
“And as for lessons being learned, the only lesson is that Rhea Ripley doesn’t make the same mistakes twice. So if Charlotte wants to ‘put me in my place’ at WrestleMania, then good. Because my place is standing on top of her crumbled queendom when I walk out of WrestleMania the new SmackDown Women’s Champion.” Byron says looking ahead, what can we expect on Friday when Rhea goes face to face with Charlotte on SmackDown? Watch and find out. Dom says Rey has a match that day. Dom will “tag along” to watch. Rhea likes that idea. Byron, we’re done here. Rhea & Dom leave, but will they leave their mark on SmackDown this weekend?
WWE shares Austin Theory’s comments from the Elimination Chamber Press Conference.
The Now retained his title inside the Chamber, though it was because Logan Paul screwed over Seth Rollins. But Theory said, “If I have a United States Championship Open Challenge this Monday on Raw, who’s gonna step up.” Well, moments later, when Edge hand his turn to speak, he accepted! Theory’s work ethic will be tested, and Edge might even kick Theory’s teeth in!
Backstage interview with Austin Theory.
Cathy Kelley brings up tonight’s title match knowing Theory retained his title in the grueling Chamber match just 48 hours ago. Theory admits he’s banged up, but he’s here like he always is. And why’s that? Because he’s the champ! He stepped inside the Chamber with five of the best in the WWE. Included in those five was Seth Freakin’ Rollins. Rollins was someone everyone said had it in the bag, and what happened? Theory put him down like he said he would. Everything Theory says happens! But what he doesn’t understand is the headline. It isn’t that Theory is the Now, Then and Forever, but that John Cena is coming back to Raw in two weeks!
Theory is upset by that. What the headline should say is, “WHO CARES?” Where’s the respect for Theory for the work he puts in every week? But he has a US Championship Open Challenge tonight that was accepted by the Rated R Superstar. And Theory loves that, because he gets to beat a WWE Hall of Famer in his home country of “crappy Canada.” After that, Theory will continue his Forever Reign right on to WrestleMania, and his legacy will stand over everyone. Theory will never lose this title! How’s that for a headline?
Mustafa Ali VS Dolph Ziggler!
The Beacon seems to be pulling a page out of the Show-Off’s playbook by constantly complaining “It should’ve been me!” But will it be Ali with a win here tonight? Or will it be Ali having to eat his words when Ziggler humbles him?
Raw returns and Ali makes his entrance. The bell rings, Ali offers a handshake and Ziggler accepts it. But then Ziggler uses it to hit a fireman’s carry takeover! Cover, TWO! Fisherman cradle, TWO! Ali gets up, swings, but misses! Ziggler DECKS Ali, DECKS him again, then whips. Ali reverses, but Ziggler ducks ‘n’ dodges to CLOBBER Ali! Ali goes to a corner, but Ziggler STINGER SPLASHES! And then NECKBREAKER! Ziggler fires up and fans fire up with him as Ali goes to ropes. Ali bails out before the superkick! But Ziggler drags him up by his hair! Ali HOTSHOTS Ziggler away!
Ali hurries inside, and he CLOBBERS Ziggler in return! Ali mockingly tells Ziggler to smile and be thankful that he’s here. Ali fishhooks Ziggler’s mouth! The ref reprimands, so Ali brings Ziggler up to suplex. Ziggler slips off, shoves Ali away, but Ali goes back out to the apron! ROUNDHOUSE! Down goes Ziggler and Ali smiles. Ali aims, somersaults, and- SATELLITE DDT! Cover, TWO!! Ali survives and Ziggler grows frustrated. Ziggler kicks Ali’s leg out, runs, FAMOUS- NO, Ali handstands free! Ghost pin, ALI WINS!
Winner: Mustafa Ali, by pinfall
Even Ali seems shocked he won! Ali celebrates big time, and he seems to mock Ziggler with it. But will Ali really get back on track after this?
Backstage interview with The Miz & Maryse.
Cathy Kelley lets them finish kissing and then Maryse hurries to get an envelope. Happy anniversary! Miz thanks Maryse, and brags that her gift was too big and expensive to bring across the border. She knows, she picked it. Anyway, Miz opens the envelope and… Is this real? What does it say? Maryse says to read the room, Cathy. Miz says this is bigger than his game winning half court shot in the NBA Celebrity Game. Cathy points out it didn’t count officially. Miz says this news is not for Cathy! This is to be broken by a world-renowned journalist: MIZ. But he’ll wait for next week, because tonight is about them.
Miz & Maryse kiss again but Cathy brings up Seth Rollins. Miz says, “What do you not understand about ‘us’?” GO! BYE! THANK YOU! But Miz has a match with Rollins after back-to-back losses to Boogs- Uh, those were both very controversial wins by Boogs! But if we’re to talk about Rollins, then maybe Rollins got a little too big for his stupid red boots last week. Miz is glad Rollins was brought down to earth by Miz’s former protégé, Logan Paul. Miz molded Logan into the superstar he is today. And in a way, Miz cost Rollins his US Championship. Miz’s outstanding tutelage ruined Rollin’s WrestleMania dreams, while this (the envelope) just made his dreams come true.
Miz and Maryse kiss again and head out. Will tonight be more awesome for The Miz? Or will Rollins #BurnItDown?
Cody Rhodes is here!
Ottawa cheers as The American Nightmare has his smoke and pyro then heads to the ring. Cody gets another round of pyro, then gets the mic. Fans cheer, and Cody asks, “So…” “Ladies and gentlemen…!” Paul Heyman is via the titantron, with a neck brace on, as he introduces himself. Cody asks, “Mr. Heyman… Where are you?” Uh, right here backstage. Oh, okay. So then, Heyman should just come out here in person. Everyone wants to hear what he has to say! Fans cheer, but Heyman sputters. He isn’t sure if Cody is aware of this, but Heyman was “mauled” on Saturday by a “KO-diac, and subject to the miserable Canadian healthcare system.”
Fans boo but Heyman says what should’ve been a celebratory weekend for The Tribal Chief ended up a tragedy for the Wise Man. But Heyman assures us, “the true tragedy of this story that you want to finish will befall, sir, onto you.” Heyman has Cody stay calm and wants us to hear him out. “Cody, man to man, face as close as to willing I am to be to face, you can’t beat Roman Reigns! Oh, they can boo all they want, but let’s go on the hypothetical. Let’s play to everybody’s fantasy. Let’s say that the stars align, the gods smile upon you, the devil collects my debt. Let’s say at WrestleMania, Cody Rhodes beats the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, for these championships.
“Then, sir, what will your life be like? Have you ever heard the phrase, ‘indentured servitude?'” Heyman knows that we’re thinking Roman doesn’t live that life. But that’s because Roman has a Special Counsel. Roman has The Wise Man. Roman has Paul Heyman. If Cody defeats Roman for the titles, which he won’t, but if he does… Cody won’t have Paul Heyman. “So let’s do the math, playing to this notion that Cody Rhodes defeats Roman Reigns. What will your life be like? First of all, 200 days a year on the road, defending these championships. 40 to 50, let’s mark it up, 50 days a year doing charity appearances and red carpets. Now we’re at 250.
“Thirty days a year overseas promoting the general brand of World Wrestling Entertainment. Now we’re at 280. Another 20 days promoting WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Survivor Series, Royal Rumble, Money in the Bank, Backlash, I don’t know, Peoria! Oh, let’s not forget to promote your title defenses in Peoria. Now that’s 300, 305 days a year, that means 60 days at home. And what happens to those 60 days? 20 of them, Spike calls? Skype calls? What do you call ’em? Zoom calls, promoting the product, meetings.
“What did your brother Dustin so famously say? The American Dream, Dusty Rhodes, was one the road, he was never home. And even when he was home, he was never home. Is that the life you want for your wife and child? Is that what you want for your family, Cody? Is that the sacrifice that you’re willing to make for these titles?! I know what you’re thinking. I’m about to say something really vile and vulgar and contemptible, like, ‘Hey, don’t worry, Cody. On a cold winter night, Roman Reigns will keep your wife warm.’ I would never say something like that. Roman Reigns is a happily married man. But I’m not!”
Fans boo Heyman going there, but Heyman assures Cody that that is when he finds out his WrestleMania dreams are going to become his own personal nightmares. Heyman “drops the mic” by taking off the lapel mic, and Cody paces as he tries to contain his feelings. Fans cheer Cody on, and Cody says, “Damn! Roman Reigns is great. You’re great, Roman. But I have seen this play before. Do not send this man again. We haven’t come face to face yet, we probably will and it’ll probably be very soon. And I will say the same thing to you now that I’m going to say then.
“You are without a doubt the greatest WWE Undisputed Universal Champion in the history of the company. You are the current bets champion in all of sports. But it doesn’t change a damn thing! I HAVE to finish the story! I beat you at WrestleMania!” Fans fire up as Cody does a REAL mic drop! Will the American Nightmare only be a nightmare for the Head of the Table?
Asuka VS Nikki Cross!
The Empress of Tomorrow is poised for WrestleMania and the Raw Women’s Championship after winning the Elimination Chamber match, but she isn’t just going to rest on her laurels! Will the Loony Lass not be ready for Asuka?
Raw returns and Nikki makes her entrance. The bell rings and the two circle, but here comes Bianca Belair! Both Asuka and Nikki watch The EST struts out with the title to join commentary. Nikki and Asuka rush each other, Nikki dodges a kick to throw Asuka by her hair! Nikki rains down fists then sits Asuka up to smile. Asuka shoves Nikki away but Nikki CHOPS! Asuka snarls, things speed up, Asuka avoids the crossbody to SLIDING KICK! Asuka then stands Nikki up for knee after knee! Nikki blocks the suplex to put Asuka up on the ropes. Asuka slips off, avoids Nikki’s shoulder, and KICKS away on her in the ropes!
Asuka grins as she brings Nikki out, but Nikki pushes her away. But Asuka hits a POP-UP KNEE! Nikki staggers back, Asuka kicks, but Nikki ducks! Asuka hits only post! Nikki dragon sleepers, for a REVERSE DDT to the apron! Nikki grins and Asuka writhes while Raw goes picture in picture.
Nikki drags Asuka off the apron to THROW her into the barriers! Nikki tells everyone to stay down, then she refreshes the ring count. Nikki drags Asuka up, POSTS her, then fires up as she goes to commentary. Nikki messes with Kevin Patrick, then puts Asuka back in the ring. Cover, TWO! Nikki is upset but Asuka kicks her from below. Nikki CLUBS Asuka down, brings her up, and whips, only for Asuka to reverse. Asuka runs in to back elbow! Asuka CLUBS away on Nikki, bumps her off buckles, then brings her around to bump off more buckles! The ref counts, Asuka lets off, but then just brings Nikki to another corner.
Nikki hits back and she bumps Asuka off buckles! Nikki brings Asuka in and turns her for a NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Nikki still grins and she drags Asuka back up. Nikki RAMS into Asuka at the ropes, but Asuka hits back. Nikki CLUBS her down, but Asuka kicks her. Nikki grinds her forearms into Asuka’s face, covers, TWO! Nikki keeps on Asuka with an armlock, wraps it up a into a top wristlock, but Asuka endures. Nikki thrashes around, Bianca even rallies for Asuka, and Asuka throws body shots. Asuka is free but Nikki throat chops! Nikki stomps a mudhole, then tells the ref to back off. Nikki whips Asuka corner to corner but Asuka goes up and MISSILE DROPKICKS!
Both women are down, Raw returns to single picture, and fans rally up. Asuka and Nikki both stand up, and they both run in! Asuka dodges to KICK, KICK and URAKEN! URAKEN! SOBAT! URAKEN! BOOT! ROUNDHOUSE! HEEL KICK! Fans fire up and Asuka GERMAN SUPLEXES! Asuka holds on, she brings Nikki back up, another GERMAN SUPLEX! Asuka drags Nikki up again, GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Nikki escapes but Asuka grins. Nikki goes to the apron, flops to the floor, but Asuka runs in to slide, only to fall for the apron skirt trap! Nikki fires off on Asuka, then lets off as the ref counts.
The ring count climbs but Nikki puts Asuka in at 6 of 10. Nikki climbs, but Asuka ROCKS her first! Asuka climbs up, bumps Nikki off buckles, and then brings Nikki around to SUPER DDT!! Cover, TWO!!? Nikki survives and even Bianca’s surprised. Asuka and Nikki go forehead to forehead and they throw forearms! Fans fire up, Asuka gets the edge, and she KICKS Nikki in the chest! And KICKS again! And again! Nikki slaps herself and fires up, but Asuka KICKS her down! Nikki sits up, ducks the buzzsaw, and fireman’s carries! But Asuka slips off, shoves Nikki away, ROUNDHOUSE! Chicken wing!
Nikki flails, fireman’s carries, and MICHINOKU DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!!! Asuka survives and Nikki is furious! Nikki drags Asuka up, but Asuka wrenches out, TAKEDOWN into the RINGS OF SATURN!! Nikki grins but she verbally quits, Asuka wins!
Winner: Asuka, by submission
Even Bianca applauds that win, and then she joins Asuka in the ring. Fans fire up seeing champion and challenger stare down, and Bianca holds up the title. Fans cheer as they both point to the WrestleMania sign, but then Asuka spits up the blue liquid! Only Asuka is smiling now. Is Bianca not going to be ready for Asuka when they meet on the Grandest Stage of Them All?
Backstage interview with Carmella.
Cathy brings up how Asuka is the one going to challenge Bianca, has the Fabulous Princess given any thought to her own Road to WrestleMania? Mella says Elimination Chamber was just two days ago, okay? So no, she hasn’t thought up a whole new game plan in just 48 hours. But what she has thought of is Asuka. “That little freak thinks she can mess with the Moonwalking, Trash-talking Princess of Staten Island? I don’t think so. So I’m about to make Bianca’s Road to WrestleMania super easy when I return one hell of a receipt to Asuka. Because Mella, is, money!” Mella heads out, and then Cathy spots Seth Rollins.
Rollins seems in a good mood considering everything that happened with Logan Paul. Does he care to comment? “Two times now, Logan Paul has ruined my WrestleMania plans. And he thinks this is a game, he wants to hit me with my own move, he wants to get on social media and call me a clown! HAHAHAHAHA! Well, Logan! Joke’s on you. See, Logan may not be very familiar with a certain side of me, but anyone who has gotten in my way knows that side all too well. I’m going to find Logan Paul, and I’m going to hurt Logan Paul.” But since Logan isn’t here, the man who wants to take credit for Logan’s success, The Miz, seems like the perfect surrogate for the suffering.
Rollins laughs his way to gorilla, will he be the only one laughing after he burns it down?
MVP speaks.
“Brock Lesnar. You, sir, are a coward. You realized that you couldn’t escape Bobby Lashley’s Hurt Lock, so you got yourself disqualified at the Elimination Chamber.” Omos is there with MVP, and MVP says the Nigerian Giant is issuing a challenge to face Lesnar at WrestleMania! Lesnar can show up next week to officially accept, “if you have the intestinal fortitude.” Will the Beast have more than enough courage to come back and conquer Omos?
Seth Rollins VS The Miz!
The Visionary was perhaps goaded into insulting Logan Paul by the Hollywood A-Lister, but will he add insult to injury when he takes out the man who brought the ImPAULsive Influencer to the WWE? Or will The Miz hit his shot like he technically did at the NBA Celebrity Game?
The bell rings while fans sing “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” Rollins then CLOBBERS Miz! And fires off in the corner! The ref counts, Rollins lets off with stomps, and Miz bails out. Fans fire up as Rollins goes out the side and storms up, but Miz kicks low! Rollins blocks the desk bump to SMACK Miz off the desk! And then Rollins THROWS Miz into barriers! Fans fire up while the ring count climbs. Rollins puts Miz in at 5 of 10 and he slides in. Fans sing more as Rollins stands on Miz’s back. Rollins fishhooks Miz and then hits crossface forearms! Miz crawls away, Rollins runs in and clotheslines Miz up and out!
Fans fire up more as Rollins builds speed! Rollins WRECKS Miz and Miz goes flying over the desk! Fans fire up as Miz crawls out from the armchairs. Rollins storms up, Miz hurries into the ring and uses the ref as a shield! Kick to the legs, BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO! Miz is in control now as Raw goes picture in picture.
Rollins bails out, Miz catches his breath, and then Miz runs to WRECK Rollins! Rollins hits barriers, Miz mocks the fans singing, and Miz drags Rollins back up. Miz puts Rollins in, climbs a corner, and Miz leaps to AX HANDLE! Cover, TWO! Miz keeps cool but the fans keep singing. Rollins stands up while Miz tells fans to shut up. Rollins ROCKS Miz with haymakers! And CHOPS! Rollins whips, Miz reverses and kitchen sink knees! Then Miz runs to BASEMENT BOOT! Cover, TWO! Miz JAMS his knee into Rollins’ back and pulls on the arms. Rollins endures the stretch and fights up to his feet to turn things around on Miz!
Rollins stretches Miz but Miz turns things around onto Rollins. Miz even digs his boot into Rollins’ back to add onto the stretch. Rollins still fights back up, throws elbows, then swings, into the BACKBREAKER and NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Miz’s A-List Combination wasn’t enough, but he CHOKES Rollins on the ropes! The ref counts, Miz runs side to side to STRADDLE ATTACK! Miz paces around Rollins with a smirk, and Raw returns to single picture. Miz points to Rollins, fans cheer. Miz holds up his hands for himself, the fans boo. Miz verifies that by doing it all again, and yes, fans cheer Rollins and boo Miz.
Rollins stands, he throws body shots, and then he throws haymakers! Rollins CHOPS, runs, but Miz kitchen sink- ROLL-UP! TWO!! Rollins CHOPS again, and again, then whips! Miz reverses and Rollins hits buckles hard! Miz KICKS Rollins but fans taunt him with “TINY BALLS!” Miz KICKS more, then goes to the far corner. Fans boo, Miz runs in, but into a LARIAT! Fans fire up while both men are down! Fans sing again, Miz crawls to ropes and stands up. Miz swings, but Rollins counter punches him! And again! Rollins ROCKS, CHOPS and repeat on Miz! The ref counts as they end up on ropes, Rollins whips but Miz reverses, only for Rollins to CLOBBER Miz!
Rollins rallies on Miz, mule kicks and front kicks to then ROLLING ELBOW! Fans fire up with Rollins and he drags Miz up. Suplex, but Miz slips free to roll Rollins. Rollins rolls through to SUPERKICK! Fans fire up again and Rollins aims from the corner. Miz avoids the stomp but Rollins kicks low! Underhooks, but Miz trips Rollins! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Sunset flip, TWO! Miz pushes Rollins to a corner, runs in, but into a BOOT! Rollins goes up but Miz trips him, for a DRAPING CODE BREAKER! Cover, TWO!! Rollins survive but Miz snarls. Fans taunt Miz more but Miz powers up. Rollins sits up, Miz full nelsons!
Rollins arm-drags free, catches Miz to a back suplex but Miz lands on his feet! Miz ducks ‘n’ dodges, BUSAIKU KNEE! Cover, TWO!! Miz admits Rollins is tough, but the fans still taunt him with “TINY BALLS!” Miz KICKS Rollins in the chest, KICKS him again, then KICKS again and again and again! Fans chant “NO! NO! NO!” but Miz reminds Rollins that Miz cost him the title. Rollins blocks the kick! ROLLING ELBOW! Rollins keeps Miz from falling over, and he fires off forearm after forearm! Then the turn, for the DREAM SMASHER ELBOW! And CURB STOMP!! Fans fire up because Rollins isn’t done there!
Rollins fires up and the fans are with him! Rollins tells “Mike” to sit up, Miz does sit up, CURB STOMP!! But Rollins still isn’t done, and many fans want that “ONE MORE TIME!” Rollins agrees, and this is the viciousness he mentioned earlier. The ref tells Rollins no, Miz is done. Rollins STILL CURB STOMPS Miz!!! The ref calls it, Rollins wins!!
Winner: Seth Rollins, by referee stoppage
The Miz was knocked out cold by Rollins’ burning anger! Fans sing for the Visionary, will Rollins make sure to “introduce” Logan Paul to this side?
Carmella talks with Adam Pearce.
She appreciates him taking the time since she knows he’s super busy. He wants to thank her for the positive attitude, it is refreshing. So if Mella wants to face Asuka next week, he’ll make that match. In fact, it is official. Mella thanks “honey bunny” Pearce, then she heads out. But then someone calls Pearce. It’s Chelsea Green. She knows he knows who she is, but she wants to let him know that their “awful talent relations department” seems to have sent her to Ottawa, Illinois instead of Ottawa, Canada. How did this happen? On second thought, don’t answer that. How are they going to make this up to her?
Pearce apologizes, but next week, WWE will be in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the US. So he will call the travel department and get this figured out. Chelsea can’t just be left here! She goes on and on but Pearce says he can’t hear her. Technical difficulties or something. Okay, see you next week. Pearce hangs up and walks on, to find The Alpha Academy posing in front of a mirror. Chad Gable wonders what “those clowns” in Maximum Male Models are missing about his look. He’s got great complexion, great physical condition. Any idiot can do modeling! But then Bronson Reed walks up. “Is this how you prepare for a match?”
Gable tells Bronson that not only is Gable a bonafide Olympian and a man with “a big, beautiful golden brain,” but Gable is also on the cusp of a very lucrative modeling career. Then get ready to model a full body cast! Otis says no one talks to Master Chad like that. Bronson chuckles and heads out. Will the Colossal Aussie crush Gable’s modeling hopes ‘n’ dreams with one Tsunami?
DING DONG, HELLO~!
Bayley returns to Raw and she’s brought her friends in Damage CTRL, Dakota Kai & Iyo Sky! Bayley says hello and welcomes us to her show. She could’ve called it, “Ding Dong, Bonjour,” but she takes that back cuz these fans are booing. But since we’re in Canada, she didn’t wanna come and could’ve stayed home to sulk over not getting into the Elimination Chamber match like she deserves. But since in Canada, today is Family Day, Bayley decided to pick herself up and spend today with her family, DMG CTRL! Bayley hugs Kai & Sky and says they know how much she loves them. “But these idiots don’t know how to love you! these idiots don’t love you the way that I do!”
Bayley says Kai & Sky are so underappreciated, so that’s why she has them on her show. So to the questions! First, Dakota. “How does it feel to be the greatest Women’s Tag Team Champions of all time?” Kai says that is an amazing question, and she says she and Sky wouldn’t be here without Bayley, their “fearless leader” and beloved Role Model. That is why Kai & Sky have completely dominated for over 100 days! They’ve been on every show, beaten the likes of Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, and even The Man, Becky Lynch. And they will dominate for another 100, and another 100, and-
WAIT! Here comes The Man! Ottawa just entered the Big Time, but Bayley is upset Becky is interrupting her show! Becky says “Greatest tag team champions, she calls them. It’s been nine full moons cycles since the last time you defended those titles! No, no, no, no. Those titles are getting dusty! There’s cobwebs in them titles! There’s probably some spiders living in there. You two, you’re not gonna get to just sit on those titles and coast to WrestleMania.” Becky has a plan: she wants to take those titles into WrestleMania! Fans fire up for that, but DMG CTRL laughs. Becky is a joker. With who? Her daughter? HA! Becky’s got no friends!
Becky says she’s not sure her daughter is ready for this level of awesomeness, but there is someone Becky is thinking of. LITA!! Fans fire up as the legend returns again! DMG CTRL freaks out as Becky & Lita head to the ring! Bayley refuses to let them interrupt her show, unless they use the door! Lita knocks, but then Bayley says they’re not welcome. Becky still steps through. What’s Lita even doing here? Becky must be desperate if she’s bringing her around! But fans chant for Lita nice and loud! Bayley waits for them to calm down, and asks Lita if she remembers the last time they were in the ring together. They tried to end each other! Can they even trust each other?
Becky tells Bayley not to even try that, she already apologized to Lita. Becky admits she gets a bit “Gollum-y” when titles are concerned. Lita says Gollum is kinda cute in a goofy way. But they’re both past all that. But Bayley has a good point: Lita has her eyes set on a fifth title run. But if Lita can’t get that title against Becky, she likes the idea of walking into Mania as a tag team champ. Fans like that, too! Lita tells Kai & Sky, “This is an official challenge for a tag team title match!” Bayley says those two are not even CLOSE to being worthy against two of the best.
Well, Lita is a Hall of Famer and a four-time champion while Becky won the first women’s main event at Mania. They’re two of the greatest ever, that’s enough! And maybe, if Kai & Sky are the greatest, they should want to prove it. So what’s the problem here? They are the greatest! Then they should defend the titles, right? Unless… Are they scared? Are they? Bayley says they’re not scared, Kai & Sky accept!! But then Kai & Sky ask Bayley what she’s doing! Bayley says it’ll be fine, but then Becky & Lita literally snatch the belts away! Fans fire up as Becky and Lita say they’re the future champs!
Bayley steps up, the titles are thrown at her! DMG CTRL is literally on their heels, and Bayley might’ve just bitten off more than the team can chew! Will Lita & Becky make WrestleMania in Hollywood even bigger?
Backstage interview with Candice LeRae.
Byron says coming out of Elimination Chamber, do we have an injury update on her husband, Johnny Gargano? Candice says Johnny got pretty banged up, and the Chamber is definitely one of the most brutal matches in the WWE. But she assures us that… Wait, Nikki walks over. Candice won’t let her stalk her anymore, and she wants to know why. Nikki tries to squirrel away, but Candice keeps her there. Candice says she has a match against Piper Niven to worry about, she can’t focus on that and Nikki always popping up. Just tell her why! Nikki is sheepish, mumbles something, but then she runs off.
Candice is confused, but what did Nikki say? That all her friends are gone and she’s alone. Candice gets back to Johnny. Johnny will be back, but she has to go. Was Nikki just wanting to be Candice’s friend this whole time?
Bronson Reed VS Chad Gable w/ Otis!
It took just about everyone else in the Men’s Elimination Chamber to eliminate the Colossal Aussie, will even the big brain of “Master Gable” fail to stop him? Or will Gable have a plan for avoiding the Tsunami?
Raw returns and Bronson makes his entrance. The bell rings, Gable shoots around to headlock but Bronson powers out and CLOBBERS Gable! Gable flounders out of the ring, Otis coaches him, but Bronson goes to the apron. FLYING SHOULDER! Otis coaches Gable more but Bronson stares him down. Fans fire up for these mirror images staring down, but Bronson puts Gable in the ring. Bronson bumps Gable off buckles, CLOBBERS him, then looms over him. Bronson drags Gable back up, whips him to a corner hard, and Gable bounces off buckles! Bronson then goes up as Gable stands, for a FLYING- NO! ANKLE LOCK!!
Gable has Bronson’s leg, Bronson rolls and BOOTS him away! Gable fires off forearm sand uppercuts and knees! Gable CHOPS, runs, but Bronson reels him in to CLUB him! Bronson back suplexes, Gable lands on his feet to waistlock, and he manages to lift Bronson!? Bronson elbows free, Gable runs and Gable runs Bronson over! Bronson goes up top, to DIVING HEADBUTT! Cover, ONE!! Bronson is still in this, but Gable runs, into a LARIAT! Otis looks and sees Maxxine Dupri in the crowd. Maxxine waves hi, but Bronson gets Gable up! Gable slips out of the bomb to ROCK Bronson with a forearm!
Gable staggers to a corner, Bronson runs in but Gable dodges! GERMAN SUPLEX?!?! Bridging cover, TWO!!! Fans fire up as Bronson bails out,. Otis talks with Maxxine about the modeling but Gable tries to get his attention. Bronson returns to SPLASH Gable in the corner! Whip and POWERSLAM! Bronson drags Gable to the drop zone, goes up top, TSUNAMI!!! Cover, Bronson wins!
Winner: Bronson Reed, by pinfall
Otis realizes he just missed the natural disaster that demolished his coach! Will Maxxine sign “Otīs” to her stable when the Alpha Academy crumbles to the ground?
Ladies and gentlemen: Elias.
The Drifter is here and he has the mic to say, “Hello, I am Elias. Rick Boogs, I hope you’re back there taking notes right now, because this is how you do it.” Boogs is watching, and he IS taking notes! Elias says, “This is the time of the year that legends come out. This is the time of the year when stars are made. And lemme tell ya, there are no bigger stars than Elias. There’s no bigger legend than Elias. And so the question that has to be on everybody’s mind right now, and Boogs, you better be back there taking notes, is this: Who wants to Walk With Elias at WrestleMania?” Ottawa seems pretty fired up.
Elias wants someone to show up to stand center stage on the Grandest Stage with the Grandest Performer! But wait, here comes BOBBY LASHLEY! Elias didn’t expect the All Mighty but he gets ready for him! Lashley runs in to SPINEBUSTER Elias! Elias bails but Lashley pursues! Lashley hauls Elias up to RAM him into barriers! And then he fireman’s carries, to POST Elias! Ottawa fires up as Lashley drags Elias up again, puts him in the ring, and then SPEARS!! But Lashley isn’t done, he clamps on the HURT LOCK!! Elias taps but that won’t save him! Lashley TOSSES Elias away, then gets the mic.
“Everybody has a plan until I slap that Hurt Lock in. This past weekend, I put Brock Lesnar in the Hurt Lock. And Brock Lesnar panicked, and he had to resort to a low blow. Not Brock Lesnar, not Bray Wyatt, not Elias, nobody in that locker room breaks the Hurt Lock. So know I will not be disrespected by nobody in this locker room. If you disrespect me, I will put you down.” The All Mighty has spoken! Will all fall before him? Is Boogs taking notes on what not to do with an Open Challenge?
Backstage interview with Edge.
Byron congratulates the Rated R Superstar on the win he and Beth Phoenix got over Finn Balor & Rhea Ripley on Saturday. But no rest for the weary, as Edge accepted Theory’s Open Challenge. How is he feeling just moments away from this huge match? Edge is happy to put Judgment Day behind him, Beth is happy at home with their daughters, and Edge finally feels like he can get to the goals he set for himself. So when Theory issued an open challenge, Edge just had to take him up on it.
“See, Austin Theory has the physical abilities to help shape the WWE for the next two decades, just like how I helped shape the last three. But does he have the mental? That’s where our similarities end. The thing with youth is sometimes, it comes with ignorance. He talks about his Forever Reign, but nothing lasts forever. And I don’t wanna be that guy, but I’m about to be that guy. And cliches are cliches for a reason because they’re true. With age comes wisdom. More than anyone else in that locker room, I know that all of this can be taken away faster than I’m gonna smack that stupid duck face off his overly manscaped head tonight.
“Now, I haven’t held a championship here in a long time. I’ve done everything else there is to do in this business, but I haven’t held a title in a while. And we both know that window is closing more and more every day, I’m running outta time. My second match in this company was here, in 1997. I haven’t performed here in 19 years. So it’d feel pretty damn good to win it here, and walk into WrestleMania as the United States Champion. Now I know I’ve had a lot of cliches on me, Byron, but here’s one of them: Never say never.” Edge heads out, will he once again reign on this day?
WWE United States Champion: Austin Theory VS Edge!
Raw returns and Edge makes his entrance. Introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if The Now loses to the past!
The bell rings and the two circle. Fans rally for Edge, he and Theory tie up, and Edge headlocks, spins, hammerlocks and trips Theory! Theory scrambles away in a huff and fans fire up for Edge again. Edge and Theory circle, tie up, and Theory headlocks. Edge powers out, hurdles, and hurdles! Fans chant “You Still Got It!” as Edge trips Theory, drags him out, and wheelbarrow SLAMS him to the floor! Edge keeps the ring count fresh as fans rally up again. Edge drags Theory up, SMACKS him off the desk, then puts him back in the ring. Theory checks his face, Edge brings him up to a headlock.
Theory powers out, hurdles, hurdles, but Edge faked him out on that one! RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Cover, TWO! Edge keeps focus as he watches Theory clutch his neck. Edge stalks Theory to ropes and Raw goes picture in picture.
Edge bumps Theory off buckles, throws haymakers, then whips corner to corner hard! Theory bounces off buckles and falls, clutching his back. Edge drags Theory back up, to DECK him with a forearm! Theory flounders to a corner, Edge brings him up, but Theory throws hands! Theory backs Edge up, throws hands, bumps him off buckles and RAMS into him again and again! Theory tells fans to shut up, then he brings Edge back up. Theory puts Edge on ropes to fire forearms into the back! The ref counts, Theory lets off, and Edge falls tot he apron. Theory kicks Edge to the floor, then goes out after him.
Theory aims but Edge blocks the barrier bump. Edge SMACKS Theory off the barriers instead! Fans fire up as Edge follows Theory, but Theory kicks back! Edge hits back to SMACK Theory off the barriers! Edge refreshes the ring count, and RAMS Theory into barriers! Edge puts Theory in the ring, stalks him, and stomps away on him. Edge drags Theory up, whips him to ropes, but Theory kicks back! Theory runs in, but Edge tosses him up and out! Theory crashes off the apron and hits the floor! Edge goes out after Theory and brings him up for haymakers. Theory staggers, Edge pushes him back into the ring and covers, TWO!
Edge clamps right onto an arm! Theory endures the armlock, Raw returns to single picture, and Theory fights up. Theory kicks low, throws hands, and stomps away in the corner! The ref counts, Theory whips Edge corner to corner, but Edge slides out! Theory rushes out but Edge slides back in. Theory slides back in but Edge slides back out. Theory grows frustrated, he chases Edge around the ring, but Edge hits a back drop to the floor! Fans fire up as Edge gets on the apron, and FLYING LARIATS! Down goes Theory and fans fire up again! Edge puts Theory in at 6 of 10, covers, TWO! Edge wraps on a chinlock and grinds Theory down.
Theory fights up, throws hands to get free, and he LARIATS Edge! Fans boo but Theory rains down fists! Theory lets off to soak up the heat and Edge sits up. Theory stomps Edge, bumps him off buckles, then whips him corner to corner hard! Theory runs in to clothesline, then he scoops to FALL AWAY SLAM! Theory covers, TWO! Theory wraps on a chinlock and grinds Edge down. Fans rally as Edge endures but Theory says this is HIS time. Edge fights up and pries at the hold, but Theory throws him down by his head! Cover, TWO! Theory clamps the chinlock back on and he grinds Edge back down.
Edge still endures, Theory says he grew up watching Edge and now he’ll beat Edge! But Edge fights up again, fans fire up, and Edge throws body shots! Edge ROCKS Theory, ROCKS him again, then whips Theory to a corner. Edge runs in, but Theory drop toeholds him into buckles! Then somersault SHOTGUN! Cover, TWO! Theory grows frustrated but he rains down fists as Raw goes back to picture in picture.
Theory lets off on Edge, soaks up the heat from Ottawa as he mocks Edge’s rock ‘n’ roll hands, then TOSSES Edge out of the ring. Theory flexes while Edge is down on the floor. Theory grins, goes out after Edge, and he stands Edge up, only for Edge to avoid the chop! Edge turns things around and he CHOPS Theory! Theory is stinging but the fans fire up, only for Theory to POST Edge! Edge gets in the ring but Theory is right after him to cover, TWO! Theory sits Edge up, clamps on an armlock and grinds forearms into Edge’s face. Edge endures, fights up, and he pries the forearm away, only for Theory to knee low!
Theory snap suplexes Edge, covers, TWO! Theory smiles and taunts the fans. Theory talks trash about how HE is the champ, HE is The Now, and Edge is the past. Theory drags Edge up, ROCKS him with a haymaker, then pushes him around. Theory throws more hands, he DECKS Edge, then cocky covers, TWO! Theory stomps Edge down, then paces around. Raw returns to single picture and Theory stomps Edge more! “Show me something!” Fans boo but Theory drags Edge up. Theory tells fans to shut up, and he goes to suplex. Edge blocks, fans fire up, and Edge throws body shots! Theory ROCKS Edge again, then RAMS him into a corner!
Theory hoists Edge up top, throws more hands, then climbs up after him. Theory stands Edge up, but Edge blocks the superplex! Edge throws body shots, and SUPER GOURD BUSTERS Theory down! Edge then adjusts, to CROSSBODY from behind! Both men are down after what was almost a flying bulldog! Edge crawls to ropes, as does Theory. Fans rally up for Edge, he shakes out the cobwebs and sees Theory stand. Theory staggers up, into a LARIAT! Edge rallies and then FLAPJACKS! Theory swings, into the EDGE-O-MATIC! Cover, TWO! Theory survives but Edge drags him back up and reels him in!
Theory blocks the lift, throws body shots, then swings and ELBOWS! Theory fisherman’s a leg, but Edge fights that off! Edge suplexes Theory but Theory lands on the apron! Theory CLUBS then HOTSHOTS Edge! Slingshot somersault, but into a POWERBOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Theory survives again but Edge keeps his cool. Fans rally up again as Edge goes to a corner! Theory goes to the other side, Edge runs in, but Theory hurdles! Edge POSTS himself, then Theory comes in to MONKEY FLIP! Edge lands on his feet?! Theory swings, into a takedown! CROSSFACE!! Theory endures, flails, reaches out, ROPEBREAK!
The fans boo but Edge lets off as Theory survives by a literal foot. Edge storms back up, but Theory trips him! High stack, feet on the ropes! The ref sees that and fans cheer! Theory argues but Edge rolls him up! TWO and Edge hits buckles! Theory fireman’s carries! A-TOWN- NO!! IMPALER!!! Edge crawls to the cover, TWO!!! Theory survives one of Edge’s best and no one can believe it! Theory and Edge stir, fans rally up, “This is Awesome!” Edge grits his teeth, the fans are thunderous, and Edge goes back to the corner. Theory slowly rises but Edge takes aim! Only for FINN BALOR to show up! Edge DECKS Finn! And dodges Theory! Roll-up, TWO!!
The ref doesn’t see Finn GAMANGIRI! Theory fireman’s carries! A-TOWN DOWN!!! Cover, Theory wins!
Winner: Austin Theory, by pinfall (still WWE United States Champion)
Theory survives Edge thanks to Judgment Day’s front man! But Finn adds on by throwing down fists! Fans boo but The Prince stomps away on Edge! Finn then drags Edge to a drop zone and goes to a corner! Finn climbs up, for COUP DE GRACE!! Finn tells Edge this is far from over, this is just the beginning! Finn goes up again?! The refs tell him now, but Finn hits another COUP DE GRACE!!! And then a THIRD COUP DE GRACE!!! Finn said this was just the beginning, but did he just end the Rated R Superstar’s run in WWE?
My Thoughts:
A great Raw to follow up Elimination Chamber, and great follow-up for Sami Zayn’s part of the Bloodline story. I suppose Kevin Owens not forgiving Sami so easily makes sense, Kevin is good about keeping consistency as a character even as he turns Heel and Face. But somehow, someway, Sami will get Kevin on his side, because Kevin can never truly cut Sami out of his life. And great match from Sami and Corbin. I did like that Pearce was willing to let Sami go after Corbin after Corbin insulted Sami hard. Sami stays strong, and Corbin’s story takes an interesting turn. Maybe he’s going to be “Angry Corbin” like I imagined months ago.
Great promo segment from Cody and Heyman. I love how Heyman is selling that Stunner he got with that neck brace. And Heyman can’t help himself but to make this personal with Cody. Cody warning Roman not to have Heyman talk anymore is great, too, and actually out of the box for a feud with a manager involved. At least, I’ve never seen that. But of course Elias gets beat up daring someone to show up. I also did like that Boogs really was taking notes. Lashley rebounds from the lame finish to his match with Lesnar, but he name-dropped Bray so clearly that will still be the Mania plan.
MVP calling out Lesnar on behalf of Omos (and technically Lashley) was a surprise. Seems like a letdown from what could’ve been Lesnar VS Bray, but maybe we get an unofficial tournament of monsters? Night one: Bray VS Lashley, Lesnar VS Omos. Night two: the winners face off, which I’d assume are Bray and Lesnar. Ali VS Ziggler was rather quick but I think that works into the story they’re building. Ali was rather hilariously sarcastic with how happy he was to win, but I’m thinking this is just the first of many matches.
Asuka VS Nikki was great stuff, and Asuka creeping Bianca out was a nice touch. Nikki then showing up in a very different demeanor during Candice’s segment was interesting. Instead of Candice and Mia as a team, are we getting Candice and Nikki? Carmella had a good segment with Pearce that of course found a way to bring Chelsea Green into it. I suppose it was creative to have Chelsea somehow end up in the wrong Ottawa, though I don’t think she can blame the WWE’s various departments on this one. And I’m thinking Chelsea ends up in another match that should humble her but will only enhance her ego.
Also really fun Ding Dong Hello segment. Bayley gets goaded into something again like when Becky first challenged her to the Steel Cage match. Dakota is still selling bad leg, but she could surely be fine next week. Maybe Becky & Lita win, maybe Kai & Sky retain, but I’m just glad they’re getting the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships going again. Having the title match next week must mean something even bigger is planned for WrestleMania, so I’m sticking to thinking it’ll be a Fatal 4 Way, with contenders from every brand, including NXT since NXT will be in town for Stand & Deliver.
Fun promo from Gable, Otis and Bronson before Gable VS Bronson. Gable managing a German Suplex was awesome, but I figured Bronson would win. And Maxxine continues to court Otis, I’m pretty sure we’ll see Alpha Academy VS MMM happen, but I would also love to see Otis VS Bronson. Those guys are true hosses if I ever did see one. And honestly, it’d be a fitting move if losing to MMM and/or Bronson could be the reason Otis joins MMM and becomes “Otīs.” Not that Alpha Academy hasn’t been fun, but something’s gotta give as they’re just sitting in the midcard right now.
Really good interview promo from Rhea & Dominik, mostly on Rhea’s part. Them going to SmackDown makes sense, especially since there’s a chance the Judgment Day moves to SmackDown full time if Rhea wins the title. Dom will surely try to cost Rey his match against Karrion Kross, and that could be the moment of truth on whether or not Rey gonna whoop his son himself. Good promo from Miz & Maryse to tease something big for Miz’s WrestleMania, and I can’t possibly guess what that is. Great promo from Rollins, great match from Rollins and Miz, especially with Rollins immediately showing us what he means by hitting three Curb Stomps. Rollins is going to go ham on Logan and I’m here for it.
Great promo from Edge before a great main event match with Theory. But between Theory calling out Cena and Finn still wanting to settle things with Edge, of course Edge loses. Theory and Cena are going to have good stuff for WrestleMania, as will Edge and Finn. Edge did make a good point in his promo about running out of time before he has to retire once and for all, but I don’t know if he’ll get a title before then with how the Judgment Day story still isn’t done.
My Score: 8.6/10
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London calling to the champion crowns!
SmackDown brings gold to London as LA Knight defends his WWE US Championship and The Street Profits defend their tag team titles! Will the landscape change this close to WrestleMania?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly; The Profits win and retain the titles.
- Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice w/ Chelsea Green; The Secret Her-vice wins.
- WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman; Braun wins, by disqualification, and Knight retains the title.
- Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab; Charlotte wins.
- Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.
- Jimmy Uso VS The Miz; Jimmy wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes is here!
We follow The American Nightmare as walks to gorilla, then through the curtain, and London sings along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, says hello to fans along the ramp, and then we get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro. Cody goes to the ring, grabs a mic, then kneels down to kiss the WWE logo on the mat. The fans continue to sing along all the way to the end, “I AM MY KINGDOM!” The fans then cheer, and Cody holds up the belt to fire them up even more! The fans now sing for “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and he soaks it in. The fans cheer again as Cody smiles, and he finally says, “So, London~! Whaddya wanna talk about?”
The fans chant “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Cody hears that dueling, and he smiles again. The song of “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” returns, then they cheer. Cody says, “At WrestleMania 41, I will be facing John Cena…” The fans boo, but Cody says, “I will be facing John Cena as he goes to break the record and win 17. But that is WrestleMania 41. In just a few nights, I will be standing face to face with John Cena in this very same city, in this very same arena.” The fans cheer that, but then here comes Randy Orton! Now the fans sing along with Voices as The Viper heads to the ring. Orton also high-fives fans before he joins Cody.
Orton grabs a mic, paces while the fans keep singing on their own, and then the fans cheer. Orton says he’s not really the sentimental type, but for Cody and for London, screw it. The fans chant “R K O! R K O!” and Orton tells Cody, “Look at you. Look at who you are now, the man you are now. Look at where he came from.” The fans cheer and sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and Orton says he remembers a Cody in his early 20s, just breaking into the business. Cody was busting his ass harder than anyone else. He wasn’t exactly happy, and in fact, he was frustrated. But Cody was man enough, smart enough, to know he needed to grow, and that he couldn’t grow in the WWE.
Cody wasn’t exactly treated fairly in the WWE, so Cody left the WWE! That took some big ass balls to do what he did! Cody changed the business singlehandedly, and everyone in the back knows it. And Orton appreciates Cody for it. But then Cody came back, as they all knew one day he would. And the industry has been changed forever since the day Cody came back to the WWE. Cody is a bit teary eyed as Orton says Cody’s still the same guy, he just did what he set out to do, and he grew. Orton teases he would sing along with the fans, but the fans might leave. The fans again sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!”
Orton asks if they remember when Cody Rhodes faced Seth Rollins in Hell in a Cell. The fans cheer because they do. Orton says that was impressive, and even impossible, as he started with a partially torn pec and then ended with a fully torn pec! His body changed all kinds of shades of purple that Orton’s never seen on a human body. The pain he must have been in. Cody persevered not just for himself. Maybe not even at all for Cody. It was not even for his family legacy; it was for each and every single fan out there! Then Cody went on to WrestleMania, beat Roman Reigns and finished the story!
But there’s always another story, isn’t there? And Cody’s right in the middle of one. Cody is in charge of his legacy, and it is a privilege for Orton to watch Cody take control of it. Ticket sales have been up, there’s more intrigue around the world, and listen to the people! It is 99.9% all because of Cody! The fans cheer that, and of course they sing. Orton says what he’s trying to say is a long-winded version of he respects Cody, loves him, and is very, very proud of him. The fans cheer that! Orton then says, “But… But now it is time for WrestleMania.” They both look to the sign, and Orton says he can guarantee Cody that Orton will kick Kevin Owens so hard in the head…!
Orton can just feel it already! He forgets how many days are left, but he can’t wait to remove Kevin’s head from his shoulders. And Orton knows Cody will enter champion, exit champion, but not before he beats the holy hell outta Cena all up and down the Vegas strip! But after all the smoke clears and the dust settles, just like Orton wants Number 17, there will come a time when Orton will want Number 15. But Orton won’t kick Cody in the balls like a coward. Orton will look Cody in the eye because he respects Cody, is proud of Cody, and sees him as an equal. Orton will look Cody in the eye and tell him that he’s coming for the title.
The fans cheer but wait! Drew McIntyre is here! The fans cheer the Scottish Terminator as he steps out on stage, mic in hand, and has a wry smile on his face as he looks at the ring. Drew waves as the fans now sing, “OH~ Drew McIntyre~!” Drew says, “Isn’t this wonderful? A couple of nepo babies having a love fest in the middle of the ring> It makes me absolutely sick. What’d you just say, Randy? if Cody gets through Cena at WrestleMania, you’re coming for that title? What exactly have you done since that big comeback to justify that title match? Aside be Randy Orton. The only big moment I can remember is you being on the shelf for months and months and months.
“People like to make jokes about it, but more people talk about my five-minute-45-second title reign than your entire comeback so far! So get to the back of the line, sunshine! As for you, Cody, you should’ve listened to me. But you shunned me. You attacked me. Everybody should’ve listened to me about John Cena, but they didn’t. And the next night, he kicked you right in the twig ‘n’ berries, proving me right as usual. And the main event of WrestleMania should be Cody Rhodes VS The UK’s only ever world champion, Drew McIntyre!” Fans do like that idea. But sadly, it’s not, because of that guyliner wearing Temu Undertaker, Damian Priest!
Drew wants to talk about what is happening. And what’s gonna happen! Drew steps up to the ring while fans sing for him again. Drew says it will not be Randy that takes the title from Cody, should he get through Cena; it’ll be McIntyre. The fans cheer, but Orton says they were trying to have a moment. Can Drew just cut the crap already? Drew says okay, sure. He’ll tell the truth, because that’s all he ever does. The truth is, Kevin might have a point! If those Voices are talking to Orton again, then they know Drew very, very well. And he’s thinking, “My God, Randy looks great! Absolutely jacked! On the outside.”
On the inside, that back is hanging by a thread. And if Orton provokes McIntyre, McIntyre will break him. And as for Cody- Cody kicks Drew and UPPERCUTS him! The fans fire up, and Orton R- NO, Drew gets away! The fans boo, but the battlelines are drawn! Even if Cody makes it out of the frying pan that is Las Vegas, it’ll be into the fire that is these contenders waiting in line! Will the American Nightmare be ready for whoever comes for the crown?
WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly!
Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins are finally golden again, but it’s time to put the titles on the line already! And while they’re ready for the grind, they’re up against the hometown heroes! Will the Profits still be up in the O2? Or will Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say #YESBOY to a new reign of their own?
The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really wants the smoke!
The teams sort out and Kit starts with Dawkins. They tie up, Dawkins headlocks, but Kit powers up and out. Dawkins runs Kit over, the fans fire up, and Dawkins fires hands on Kit in the corner! The fans rally for Pretty Deadly, Dawkins whips Kit to a corner, but Elton takes that bump! Kit CLOBBERS Dawkins, then tags Elton! Atomic drop into DROPKICK! Ford runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Dawkins whips, Elton reverses, and then Elton hurdles so Kit can DDT! The fans fire up with Pretty Deadly while the Profits bail out. Pretty Deadly has control while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Elton is right on Dawkins as he gets in, and UPPERCUTS him to the corner. Elton clinches Dawkins for another UPPERCUT! Tag to Kit, and Elton RAMS into Dawkins so Kit can UPPERCUT! Dawkins flops over, Kit drags him up to wrench the arm. Kit whips, Dawkins reverses, but Kit grabs ropes. Kit ELBOWS Dawkins, DECKS Ford, but Dawkins CLOBBERS Kit! The ref reprimands but Dawkins RAMS Kit into the corner again and again! The ref counts, Dawkins fires fast hands, then he tags in Ford. Ford says, “SUCK IT!” then he KICKS Kit! Ford scuffs Kit, then drags him to a cover, TWO!
Ford keeps Kit down with a facelock, but Kit endures the grind. Kit fights up, fires body shots, but Ford whips him away. Kit sunset flips! Ford rolls through, and PENALTY KICKS! Ford mocks Elton with the Scott Hall fingers, and the ref has to keep Elton back. Ford drags Kit up, tags Dawkins, and the Profits mug Kit. Dawkins CLUBS Kit down, then stalks him. Dawkins stays between Kit and Elton, then whips Kit into the Profits’ corner. CYCLONE- NO, Kit dodges! Ford tags in, he keeps Kit from Elton now, but Kit slips out of the suplex! Kit fakes high to go low, hot tag to Elton! Elton rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT!
Elton kicks and whips Ford to a corner, then UPPERCUTS! Elton whips the other way, UPPERCUTS again, and then does it again! Elton adds to the hattrick with a lift, Ford says a quick prayer before the SUPLEX! Ford flounders, gets to his feet, but Elton dodges to springboard and FLYING UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! Ford stays in this, but Elton stays on him. SmackDown returns to single picture and fans rally for Pretty Deadly as Elton gives Ford a back suplex. Ford lands out, waistlocks, but Elton switches and shoves Ford. Ford CLOBBERS Elton in return! Ford is also dazed but he covers, ONE!
Kit reaches out, Elton and Ford both crawl, hot tags to Kit and Dawkins! The fans fire up as Dawkins wrenches Kit, underhooks and SILENCER! Dawkins Electric Chair Lifts Kit, Ford climbs, but Kit slips free! Kit shoves Dawkins into Ford! Ford falls to the floor, but Dawkins ENZIGIRIS Kit! Elton tags in, and Kit LARIATS Dawkins! Pretty Deadly combine for DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Dawkins survives and the Profits are a bit unsure of what to do next. Dawkins crawls to a corner, Elton runs up, but Dawkins dodges! Elton hits buckles and Dawkins TOSSES Kit, then Dawkins hits a SKY HIGH on Elton!
Dawkins hurries to tag Ford and Ford climbs up! But Kit pushes Elton out of the way! Kit takes FROM THE HEAVESN, and Elton ghost pins Ford! TWO!! Ford escapes, and he ROCKS Elton! Elton UPPERCUTS Ford! Dawkins sneaks a tag, Ford SUPERKICKS! POUNCE SAIDO COMBO!! Cover, KIT BREAKS IT! The fans fire up while all four men are down! The teams go to opposite ends, then they all stand up in the corners. They all roar, all run in, and Kit SPEARS Ford while Elton FLYING UPPERCUTS Dawkins!! London is thunderous, and Kit hurries to tag in! Pretty Deadly gets Dawkins up, for SPILT MILK!! Cover, FORD BREAKS IT!
The fans are shocked, as is Elton, but Ford saves this for his team! “This is Awesome!” as Ford runs up and Elton TOSSES him out! Now DRY MARTI- NO! Dawkins doesn’t accept the second serving, and he DUMPS Kit out! Kit skins the cat while Dawkins DECKS Elton! Dawkins catches Kit to an Electric Chair! Ford rises, DOOMSDAY BLOCKBUSTER!! Cover, Profits win!
Winners: The Street Profits, by pinfall (still WWE Tag Team Champions)
Pretty Deadly put up a heroic fight, but the hometown heroes could not capture the gold. Dawkins & Ford hold onto the gold, will this be the strongest the Profits have ever been?
Kayden & Katana talk with Zelina Vega.
Carter & Chance know La Muneca got screwed over by The Green Administration. Chelsea thinks she’s untouchable, but someone’s gonna stop them eventually. Well, speaking of, Alba Fyre leads the way in as she & Piper Niven “scope the perimeter.” There’s one small threat. They frisk the “miniscule” threat, but nothing they haven’t dealt with before. Chelsea struts in and says, “The Eagle has landed~!” Zelina says she is so glad the “Bootleg Men in Black” have crashed the party. Now, yeah, they all know she’s small. But clearly this small “threat” is a big threat to Chelsea’s title reign. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have taken all three of them to beat her.
KC Squared agree with that. How about tonight, we see what happens when the odds are even? Chelsea says that’s fine, because Agents P & A are ready. The Secret Her-vice has been given their next mission, but will they be able to crash the party? Or will the party crash them?
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice!
SmackDown returns and The Green Administration makes their entrance. The teams sort out, Alba starts against Katana, and the two tie up. Alba KNEES low, CLUBS Katana down, then fireman’s carries. Katana fights free, tags Kayden, and they KICK, double whip, and then trip Alba up for the basement DROPKICK! Katana adds a slingshot SENTON, Kayden covers, TWO! Kayden tags Katana, they double whip Alba to a corner, then Kayden runs in. Alba DUMPS Kayden out, ROCKS Katana, and she tags Piper! Katana arm-drags Alba out, then goes out to run up. Kayden gives her a boost, Katana CROSSBODIES Alba down!
The fans fire up, but Piper goes up and out?! CANNONBALL and down goes KC Squared! Piper salutes Chelsea and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Kayden rallies on Alba while the fans rally up. Kayden fires up, runs in and whips, but Alba reverses. Kayden wheelbarrows, victory rolls, then SUPERKICKS! Kayden fires up again but the fans are torn. Kayden runs in at Alba to BOOT WASH her against the ropes! Chelsea protests, Kayden kicks at her, then Kayden springboards for a LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Alba survives, Kayden whips, but Alba KICKS back! Tag to Piper, but Kayden jackknife bridges Alba! The ref explains bout the tag, Piper runs up, but Kayden moves! The SENTON hits Alba! Piper panics, Kayden tags Katana!
Katana goes up onto Kayden’s shoulders, VICTORY ROLL LAUNCHER, but Piper catches Katana! Katana fires hands, BOOTS, and then hurries to go up again. Kayden ROCKS Piper, and fireman’s carries?! SAMOAN DROP! Kayden then gives Katana the boost, for the KEG STAND SPLASH!! Cover, ALBA BREAKS IT! Kayden runs up on Alba to BOOT her out! Katana gives Kayden the boost now, SUPER CROSSBODY onto Alba! Kayden hurries to tag back in, and she brings Piper up. Piper swings, Kayden dodges and SUPERKICKS! Katana goes up, Piper staggers over that way, but Chelsea distracts the ref!
The fans are torn as Alba grabs Katana. Katana kicks Alba down, chases Chelsea off, but Piper sends Kayden into her! Piper scoops to PIPER DRIVER!! Cover, Secret Her-vice wins!
Winner: The Secret Her-vice, by pinfall
The Women’s US Champion helps her team, and now they all mug Kayden & Katana! But here comes Zelina! Vega runs down the ramp, CLOBBERS Alba, and then she gets in the ring! Zelina tilt-o-whirl DDTS Piper! And she KNEES Alba off the apron! But Chelsea CLOBBERS Zelina! Chelsea fires up, the UK is oddly with her, and she chicken wings Zeina. But Zelina fights free to fire forearms and body shots! And a BACK ELBOW! Zelina reels Chelsea in, CODE- SUPERKICK from Alba! SENTON from Piper! The Green Administration is just too much for Zelina to fight against alone! But can she, Kayden & Katana find a way to turn things around?
WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman!
Did the Mega Star just get this title back from Shinsuke Nakamura? YEAH! Did he help the Monster of All Monsters fight off Solo Sikoa’s rouge bloodline? YEAH! And now, does he have to defend this title against the monster he just helped? YEAH!! But will Knight still reign this close to WrestleMania? Or will Braun #GetTheseHands back on a championship?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and it’s time for Knight’s biggest challenge, YEAH!
The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two circle. The two tie up, and Braun SHOVES Knight away. Knight comes back, Braun SHOVES him down again! Knight gets up, gets around, and he headlocks. Braun powers up to back suplex, but Knight lands out! Knight tries but Braun’s too big to suplex! Braun ELBOWS Knight, storms up on him, but Knight fires haymakers! Knight whips, Braun reverses, but Knight KICKS back! Knight runs, but Braun HIP TOSSES! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this, but Braun brings him up. Braun puts Knight in a corner, CHOPS, then runs, for a SPLASH! Knight sputters along ropes, Braun keeps moving, but Knight DUMPS him out!
The fans fire up as Knight then WRECKS Braun with a dropkick! Knight keeps moving, and he WRECKS Braun again! The fans fire up with Knight, but then Braun BOOTS Knight down! The fans are torn but Braun stands tall as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Braun puts Knight back in the ring. The fans cheer as Knight KICKS Braun! Knight tries again, but Braun’s still too big to back suplex! Braun CLUBS Knight, then runs in at the corner. Knight BOOTS Braun, goes up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Knight and Braun rise back up, and Knight dodges a shot to JAB! Then he dodges to JAB! JAB! JAB! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” But Braun KNEES low! Braun scoops, Knight slips free, and Knight RAMS Braun into buckles! Then the BACK SUPLEX! The fans fire up and Knight rises again! Knight spells it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO!
Braun has plenty left in the tank but the fans rally for Knight. Knight stands Braun up to kick low, but Braun THROWS Knight away! Knight rises, and Braun LARIATS Knight up and out! The fans fire up as Braun rips the shirt! Braun gets on the track, and he runs in, STROWMAN EXPRESS MEETS JACOB FATU!! The Samoan Werewolf strikes Braun down!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by disqualification; LA Knight retains the title
The fans boo as Jacob now goes after Knight! He just ruined what was becoming a great match, but Jacob fires HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT on Braun! SAMOAN DROP onto the desk!! The desk doesn’t budge, but Braun might’ve been broken in half! The UK fires up for Fatu as he puts Braun in the ring! Jacob fires more HEADBUTTS, then HEADBUTTS away on Braun in the corner! The fans sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE, FATU~, FATU~!” Jacob runs corner to corner, but Knight kicks him first! Knight fires haymakers, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Jacob denies the BFT to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! And then HIP ATTACK for Braun anyway!
Jacob keeps going, HIP ATTACK for Braun again! Jacob throws off his jacket, glares at Braun, and he runs in for a third HIP ATTACK! Braun flounders into the drop zone, so Jacob goes up, up, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Direct hit on Braun, but the fans want that “ONE MORE TIME!” Jacob obliges, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! The Samoan Werewolf just tore up #OneBigSOB and LA Knight, will there be no stopping him from taking the United States Championship?
Backstage interview with Jimmy Uso.
Jackie Redmond is with #BigJim, and she says that while she knew WWE was going global this month, she did not know they’d get the slap heard ’round the world! Jimmy says he’d do it again, and he’ll slap Gunther as many times as he needs! Jimmy knows Jey is up in his own head, doubt is creeping on him. But just because Jey’s 0-3 against Gunther doesn’t mean Gunther’s unbeatable! The Ring General CAN be got! Jimmy’s going to Raw this Monday, he will bust Gunther’s ass, Jey will go to Mania and bust Gunther’s ass to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. And then they leave Las Vegas just like this: YEET!
Jimmy heads out, but then The Miz & Carmelo Hayes walk by. Miz is mocking Jimmy’s words, and he asks excuse me. Miz says it’s just funny that suddenly, Jimmy is a tough guy, even though for most of his career, he’s been “The Other Uso.” Doesn’t Jimmy get it? Jimmy and Jey are career sidekicks while Gunther is a main character. Gunther is the lead, neither Jimmy nor Jey can beat him. And here’s another thing: The Usos are just blips on the trailer that was Roman Reigns’ Bloodline. Melo says Jimmy & Jey are stuck outside the club, they can’t even get in.
Miz says as a former WWE Champion, a former WrestleMania main eventer, Jimmy will never know what it is to carry this industry. And after this year’s WrestleMania, neither will Jey. Oh, and by the way, if Jimmy ever slapped Miz like that, Jimmy would still be on the ground. Jimmy feints the slap and Miz freaks out. Jimmy says it may be him and Gunther on Monday, but he’ll holler at Aldis real quick so it can be Jimmy VS Miz here tonight. Yeah, YEET! Jimmy heads out, Melo says he thought Miz was gonna do something about the slap. Will Miz have to do something about running his mouth before he gets his teeth kicked in?
Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga find Jacob Fatu backstage.
Solo asks Jacob what the Hell he was doing out there. Jacob goes out there alone without saying a thing to them? Jacob says he ain’t gotta say nothing to nobody! Matter fact, didn’t Solo not tap in with him last week? Tama says, “But Jacob,” only for Jacob to say, “But nothing, Tama!” Solo wants Jacob to lower his tone, but Jacob says okay. Let him be very clear with them. When it comes to Braun Strowman, Jacob WILL be the last man standing. Y’all better get in where you fit in, cuz that US title? Oh, Jacob’s bringing it home to the family. And he will do it with them, or without them! Yadada mean? Fatu heads out, is the Samoan Werewolf no longer following Solo?
Naomi speaks.
“I mean… How did we even get here? I don’t know. One thing that I do know is that I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. So Bianca, what makes you think that my attack on Jade was anything different from me doing the right thing? When I sit here and I think about all that I’ve sacrificed, all that I’ve given, and that’s what really breaks my heart. Because through all of that, I’m made to be the bad one in this situation. I just don’t understand, how does Jade come in outta nowhere and take my place with you? I want you to ask yourself this, Bianca. Who inspired you? Hmm?
“Who’s inspired women over the last decade? Who’s always had your back from day one of you being here? Me. Not Jade. Hmm. But you know what? What I’ve learned through all of this: You teach people how to treat you. And I’m done with being treated as a third wheel. I’m done being pushed to the side, I’m done with being too nice, I’m done with being undervalued, underutilized, underappreciated! So moving forward, hmm… Moving forward, here’s my message to you, Jade. If you continue to be in my way, I strongly advise you to proceed with caution.” The Glow shows her dark side, but will the storm be moved?
Nick Aldis meets with Jade Cargill.
Speaking of, the SmackDown General Manager understands things have been rather difficult for her as of late. Jade says she’s been trying to get her hands on Naomi for the past few weeks, now where is she? No one has seen her all day, so as far as anyone knows, Naomi’s not here. Well, when Jade catches Naomi, it’s on sight. Jade leaves, B-Fab & Michin are there. They let her know that what Naomi did to her was straight trash, totally uncalled for behavior. And after Jade gets her hands on Naomi, she’ll handle that business. Jade agrees. Mia says they’ve all got business to handle. Jade’s got Naomi, and Mia’s gonna get Charlotte for messing with her girl, B.
B-Fab says Naomi’s got what’s coming to her: no sympathy, no regrets. Jade, just do what you gotta do. Oh, she will. Jade also wishes Mia luck tonight. Mia & B-Fab head out, will the Head Baddie in Charge make the Queen bow down in London?
The darkness approaches.
“You are as I was. As I am, you will be.” The shadows are starting to take shape, but is SmackDown about to fade to black?
Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab!
The Queen looks down on everyone, so it’s no surprise that everyone else wants to take her down. Charlotte may have checked off B-Fab, but will the HBIC be a much different story? Or will Charlotte only sharpen her edge before facing Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania?
WAIT! NAOMI ATTACKS B-FAB & MICHIN! Naomi drags Mia up for a FACEBUSTER! Naomi rains down fists, the ref reprimands and the fans boo, but Naomi tells the ref to back off. Naomi then BOOTS B-Fab off the apron! Naomi goes out after B-Fab to THRWO her into barriers! Naomi SLAPS B-Fab, tells her to stay down, but B-Fab gets up. Naomi fires hands, then she SMACKS B-Fab off the desk! Naomi rains down fists, but here comes Jade! Jade hurries down the ramp, she runs around the way, but Naomi runs away! Jade makes sure B-Fab is okay, but refs have to help her to the back. And what of Mia? Will she even be able to compete?
Charlotte makes her entrance, not really caring about what Naomi just did to Mia. But that means she also crosses paths with Jade. The fans like the look of this stare down, but Jade and Charlotte both let the other slide. Charlotte gets her pyro, and it seems she’ll still get her match. Will Mia be little more than an appetizer now?
The bell rings, and Charlotte BOOTS Mia down! Cover, TWO! Mia stays in this and the fans rally up. Charlotte just struts around while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Charlotte has Mia down with a chinlock, but the fans rally up. Mia fights up, fires body shots, and she then blocks a shot to ROCK Charlotte! Mia ROCKS Charlotte again and again, then reels her in for a TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Mia hurries to cover, TWO! Mia drags Charlotte up, wrenches, but Charlotte says no to Da Feet! BIG back suplex! Mia stagger sup, Charlotte whips her, but Mia reverses! Charlotte goes up and out, BOOTS her away, then slingshots in and rolls Mia! Mia rolls through and BUZZSAWS! Mia runs corner to corner, but Charlotte avoids the cannonball!
Charlotte YAKUZA KICKS Mia down, then fires herself up! The fans “WOO~!” as Charlotte has Mia in the drop zone,. Charlotte steps on her, goes up the corner, but Mia gets underneath her! SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO! Charlotte survives and Mia is shocked! Mia nods as the fans rally back up, and she brings Charlotte up. But Charlotte ROCKS Mia! Mia SOBATS, PELES, and then runs to PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! Charlotte stays in this, Mia grows frustrated, but the fans continue to rally. Mia uses that energy to stay focused, and she stalks Charlotte to waistlock. But Charlotte ELBOWS her away!
Charlotte CHOPS, and CHOPS, and CHOSP! Charlotte winds up, and she CHOPS again! Mia sputters, but then she dodges the boot! Charlotte is caught, and Mia hits a SAIDO! Charlotte flounders to a corner, the fans rally behind Mia, and Mia runs up, CANNONBALL! Mia hurries to wrench and EAT- NO, Charlotte shoves Mia away! Charlotte gets under, back suplexes, but Mia lands out! EAT DA FEET!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Charlotte’s long legs help her survive by a literal foot! Mia is beside herself while Charlotte bails out. Mia storms after Charlotte, runs up, but Charlotte dodges! Mia’s kick hits steel steps!
Mia hobbles away, goes to the apron, but Charlotte CHOP BLOCKS the bad leg out! Charlotte grabs Mia’s leg, drops a KNEE on the knee, but fans chant, “We Want Tiffy!” Charlotte just steps through, FIGURE FOUR, into FIGURE EIGHT!! Mia taps, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
Charlotte got more of a fight out of Mia than expected, but she still won. Will The Queen be more than ready to reign again after WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.
Jackie Redmond is with the WWE Women’s Champion and says Charlotte certainly looks confident. Let’s be real, Charlotte came at Tiff pretty hard. It got a lot of people talking. Tiff says yes, people talk. And Charlotte sure loves to hear herself talk. Ten years into the business and Charlotte is still so insecure that she can’t let a “rookie” get a word out. But last week, Tiff did learn something: She learned that walking into WrestleMania, she isn’t the one with something to lose. Truth is, if Tiff loses, then she lost to the great Charlotte Flair, as just a 25-year-old rookie with one year into SmackDown.
But if Charlotte loses… Well, then she lost to an “undeserving, delusional, unoriginal, backflip doing, blonde-hair-having, little girl.” Did she get it all? And Tiff can’t wait to hear the look on Charlotte’s face when they hear the words, “And STILL!” Then maybe Charlotte will finally shut up for the sake of literally everyone! They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and Tiff will make damn sure what stays is Charlotte’s massive ego. Tiff is walking into and out of Mania as the WWE Women’s Champion. Tootles! Tiff heads out, will it still be #TiffyTime after WrestleMania?
Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre!
The Viper told Cody how proud he was, but also how he wants the next shot after John Cena. The Scottish Terminator took offense to that, and basically said he is taking that shot instead. Will this match be an unofficial #1 contender’s match between these two former world champions?
SmackDown returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans sing, “OH~, Drew McIntyre~!” and chant “R K O! R K O!” Drew and Orton circle, tie up, and they go around in a deadlock. Drew powers Orton to a corner, but Orton headlocks back. Drew powers up and out, then he runs Orton over! Orton hurries to ropes and Drew mockingly asks, “How’s the back feel, Randy?” Orton stands, he and Drew reset, and the fans duel some more. Drew calls for a knuckle lock, Orton accepts, but then Drew kicks low! Drew bumps Orton off buckles, then climbs up, but he panders for too long and Orton YANKS him down!
The fans fire up as Orton climbs now! Orton rains down fists, and the fans count to nine. Orton hops down, brings Drew around, and POSTS him for ten! Drew tumbles out of the ring, Orton goes out after him, and they’re by the desk! But Drew kicks Orton first and SMACKS him off the desk! Drew clears the desk, and he brings Orton up for the DESK- NO, Orton fights free! Orton turns things around, DESK BACK SUPLEX for Drew! The fans fire up while Orton leaves Drew behind, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew writhes on the floor, but Orton goes out to fetch him! Orton brings Drew around, UPPERCUTS him, then says one more time! DESK BACK SUPLEX! Drew writhes as that desk stays standing! Orton grins, refreshes the ring count, and then he storms up on Drew. Drew pokes Orton in the eye! Drew POSTS Orton now, then brings him around to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP into barriers! Orton slumps down, and Drew also grits his teeth from that double-edged attack, but Drew fires up as he stands tall. Drew drags Orton up, puts him in the ring, then stalks Orton. Drew looms over Orton, and HIP DROPS him!
Orton sputters, Drew says one more time, and he winds up for the HIP DROP! Drew paces around Orton, says maybe one more time, and he pretends he can’t hear the fans. Drew winds up again, but Orton flips over! Hip drop meets kneecaps! And then Orton pokes Drew in the eyes! The ref reprimands but Orton rises up. Drew sputters and flounders, Orton ROCKS him with a right! Drew ROCKS Orton back! Drew storms up, Orton kicks low, but Drew fires another haymaker! The haymakers go back and forth, Orton gets the edge, but Drew GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTTS! Cover, TWO! Drew clamps onto Orton with an armlock!
SmackDown returns to single picture and the fans rally up. Orton fights up, pries at the chinbar, and then throws right hands! Drew CHOPS Orton in return! The fans “WOO~” and Drew winds up. Drew ROCKS Orton again, eggs him on, then CHOPS again! Drew shoves Orton to a corner, CHOPS again, then dares Orton to fight! Drew whips corner to corner, but Orton comes back to LARIAT! And LARIAT! Drew swings, Orton dodges, SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up as Orton stalks Drew to the apron. Drew HOTSHOTS Orton first! Drew then runs in, but Orton puts him through the ropes!
The fans fire up as Orton has Drew for the DRAPING DDT! The fans fire up for Orton, and Orton hears those voices! Drew rises, but then Orton spots KEVIN OWENS! The Prizefighter is on the ramp, Orton glares at him, but then he turns around into a CLAYMORE!! Cover, DREW WINS!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
Kevin’s mere presence costs Orton, and now Drew has a huge win propelling him down the Road to WrestleMania! As for Orton, Kevin drags him out of the ring, SMACKS him off the desk, and then climbs up to join him! The fans boo but Kevin and his hot pink sneakers have Orton in position, but Orton slips free and TRIPS Kevin up! Kevin hits the desk then the floor! Orton staggers around, the fans rally behind him, and Orton stalks Kevin to the corner of the barriers. Orton lines up the shot! Orton runs in, but Kevin jumps over barriers! Security is there to stop Orton from pursuing, so Kevin runs away into the night!
The fans boo, but The Viper was that close! Will Orton be able to strike Kevin down and completely take him out?
Fire, thunder, smoke…
The force of nature is drawing ever closer. And he’s ready to fly! REY FENIX arrives next Friday Night SmackDown!
Jimmy Uso VS The Miz!
#BigJim gave Gunther a piece of his mind and a mark on his cheek, but it seems not everyone got the message. Will the Hollywood A-lister soon star in the Uso Penitentiary? Or will he prove Jimmy is NOT ready for a world champion level opponent?
The bell rings and the two tie up. Jimmy powers Miz to a corner, Miz turns things around, and the ref counts. Miz takes a swing, Jimmy ducks it to CHOP! And CHOP! Miz shoves Jimmy back, then runs up, but Jimmy TACKLES Miz! Jimmy rains down fists, Miz shoves him away to go to ropes, but Jimmy storms back up. Miz ELBOWS Jimmy away, then runs back up, only for Jimmy to LARIAT him down! The fans fire up while Jimmy storms up on Miz. Jimmy CHOPS Miz, has him in a corner, then whips corner to corner. Miz reverses, Jimmy goes up and over, then UPPERCUTS! Miz staggers back to ropes, but Jimmy is right on him.
Jimmy whips, Miz reverses and kitchen sink knees! Then basement BOOTS! The fans fire up, Miz scowls, and Miz KNEES Jimmy in the back again and again. Miz stalks Jimmy to the ropes now, and he CHOKES Jimmy! The ref counts, Miz runs, and Miz STRADDLE ATTACKS! The fans boo, but Miz runs again. Jimmy ducks the boot, then dodges a lariat! Jimmy runs up to LARIAT Miz up and out! The fans fire up and Jimmy builds speed, but Miz runs away! Jimmy smirks as he goes out the side, and UPPERCUTS Miz over the barriers! Jimmy makes sure Gunther knows he’s coming to get him, but SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and both men are down. Miz and Jimmy crawl, and Jimmy pounds the mat. The fans rally, Jimmy rises and runs up to LARIAT! And LARIAT! And mule kick! Jimmy then UPPERCUTS Miz, dodges a lariat, then SAMOAN DROPS! The fans fire up, Jimmy goes to the corner, “UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs in, but Miz puts him on the apron! Jimmy UPPERCUTS again! Jimmy climbs, leaps, but Miz gets under! Miz then waistlocks, ripcords, and MOVIE MAKER! Fans boo that blatant parody, but Miz full nelsons! Jimmy drops, victory rolls, TWO! Miz has the cover, TWO! Miz hurries to BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally up as Jimmy survives! Miz stalks Jimmy, the fans rally up more, and Miz fires a KICK! And then another KICK! The fans say “YES! YES! YES!” to the It Kicks, but then Miz winds up. Jimmy ducks the buzzsaw, Miz blocks the superkick, but the DRAGON WHIP connects! Miz rebounds to B-MOVIE KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! The parodies don’t get it done, but Miz still has his original work to fall back on. The fans rally for “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz shoves Jimmy down, then springboards, but into a SUPERKICK! Jimmy hurries up top, for the USO SPLASH!! Cover, Jimmy wins!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Miz may be a movie star, but Big Jim’s the one winning this main event! Jimmy then borrows Joe Tessitore’s headset to call out Gunther! He’s coming after dat ass on Monday! Gunther won’t be the ring general, he will be “Private Gunther,” and he will salute Big Jim! Uh, uh, YEET! Will Jimmy be the one making examples out of the World Heavyweight Champion? Or will everything come crashing down when Gunther gets his turn?
Drew McIntyre returns backstage.
And he says hey to Lewis Capaldi, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, and also a big fan of Drew’s. They’re ready to have a good night in the pub, but Jackie Redmond walks over to congratulate him on the win tonight. She was hoping to get some thoughts on that victory and what happened with Orton and Kevin. Drew says it’s alright, this is what happens. He doesn’t care about anybody else’s business, but no one gets away with screwing him over. And when no one meddles in his business, he wins! Drew called out Priest, where is he? Priest doesn’t have the balls! So time to get mad in the pubs, everyone’s invited!
Drew turns the corner, but PRIEST IS THERE! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the door, then throws him into road cases! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the trunk of a car, and then again! Or since it’s London, “the boot.” The driver complains, but Priest BODY SLAMS that guy through a table! Drew comes back to KNEE Priest low, SMACK him off the trunk, and then off the side! They go to the hood, or bonnet for UK. Drew drags Priest up, but Priest CLAWS Drew’s eyes! Priest then sends Drew SOUTH OF HEAVEN through the windshield! Priest tells security that he’s done for now. Any more jokes, Drew? Didn’t think so! RIP, jackass!
Priest leaves, the producers hurry to help Drew, and Drew’s got glass in his eye! Will that glass help Drew see why he shouldn’t piss off the Punisher?
CM Punk heads to gorilla.
He has a security detail with him, and he passes by Drew writhing in pain. Punk chuckles, then continues on. Will his contract signing with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins be just as brutal? We find out, after the break.
Nick Aldis is in the ring.
The SmackDown General Manager welcomes us back, and says it is his honor and privilege to be here in the O2 in London. Now, we all know why he and this table is here, and why additional security is here tonight. Tonight, we are here to sign a contract for a Triple Threat. Perhaps the biggest Triple Threat in the history of WrestleMania: Seth Rollins VS CM Punk VS Roman Reigns! The fans cheer all those names, and here comes the OTC! London puts the ones up, and Paul Heyman accompanies THE Tribal Chief out on stage. Roman raises his finger to the sky for the pyro, then security follows him to the ring.
SmackDown goes picture in picture as Roman’s entrance continues, and he raises his finger to the sky for the second round of pyro. Roman steps into the ring, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Heyman hands him a mic. The fans sing, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!” Roman nods, the fans cheer, and now they chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman tells London, “ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer again, and again chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman smiles, but he sees the chairs are not to his liking. Heyman makes sure to put one at the head of the table. Heyman also dusts the chair off while Roman enjoys the singing of, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!”
Roman takes a seat and says that was beautiful. The way they sing to their Tribal Chief, it’s just beautiful. The singing continues, and Heyman even joins in! Roman smiles, and he says that is what he’s talking about. That’s the OTC for you, baby! The biggest star on the planet! The OTC came here for two reasons. One: to be acknowledged; check! And two: to sign this contract. Roman does just that, and he says he’s checked both boxes. That means- “BURN IT DOWN!” Seth Rollins interrupts! The fans now sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Rollins struts out in his red wine paisley suit and conducts the O2 Choir all the way into the ring.
The fans cheer while Roman frowns, but Rollins takes the seat to Roman’s left. Rollins offers Heyman a chance to sing to this song, but Heyman frowns. Rollins chuckles, and he says the fans do have beautiful singing voices. He doesn’t know why Roman is in such a hurry to leave, though! This is their building! There’s a lot of history here! 12 years ago, they landed on the roof of this place in a helicopter! They came down those stairs over there, “ready to burn down the old guard!” They put the Undertaker down through the desk, and they were going to remake this company in their image!
Now don’t get him wrong, Rollins knows a lot has happened since then. They fought against each other, with each other, a little bit of love and a whole lot of hate. But Rollins dare says, as the fans continue to sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~,” that Rollins and Roman accomplished their mission. The fans start to chant for CM Punk, but Rollins tunes them out. Roman says, “We? We? You keep saying we. Our mission? We died a long time ago. It’s only been ME. You been here, but I done all the work! I’ve made this place what it is today! I took us to the level that we are here today! I made this place better than we found it!
“I’m the one that made us desirable to Netflix! I’m the one that took us into billion-dollar deals! Tell me, what have you done?” Rollins shouts, “I’ll tell you what I’ve done! YOU, YOU, YOU, it’s that mindset that keeps me having to screw you! You understand that? And your biggest mistake is not understanding the danger that’s right in front of us! The danger that’s right in front of you! You let the biggest snake in the world, CM Punk, into the garden! And you could’ve cut his head off at WarGames! But instead, you shook his hand. You could’ve let me finish him inside the cage at The Garden, but you didn’t. And now, I am left to do what I always do: Clean up your mess, again.”
Rollins drops his mic, picks up the pen, and signs his part. And now, here comes CM PUNK! The fans fire up and sing along with Cult of Personality, then join in on saying, “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME~!” Punk goes to the ring, but as he grabs a mic, he goes up a corner, just like he did last Friday. “I have come here to chew bubblegum and sign a contract. And I’m all outta bubblegum.” The fans cheer the Rowdy Roddy Piper reference, and Punk hops down to take his seat on Roman’s right. Punk looks over said contract, but Roman asks if Punk needs a highlighter or something. What’s he doing? Just go to page four, clause five.
Punk does as Roman says, but Roman says Punk needs to hurry, this is precious TV time. Punk reads the segment, Roman tells Heyman to just smarten Punk up. Heyman tells Punk he knows what Punk is looking for. It is in there. They’re closing the show at WrestleMania. The fans go wild hearing that! Heyman tells Punk that he gets to live his dream of dreams. CM Punk will be a WrestleMania main eventer! The fans cheer and while Roman smiles, Rollins is furious. Roman says, “One man’s dream is another man’s favor! CHECK!” Wait, this was the favor? Rollins says no! This is not something to laugh at, and Punk does not get to tear up!
Punk is NOT deserving! He does NOT deserve this! The fans boo but Rollins continues to throw a fit! Main eventing WrestleMania is SACRED, the most important thing in the world to Rollins! More than anything! Except the fact that Punk NEVER gets to main event! This is all Roman’s fault! This is all Heyman’s fault! Rollins THROWS his mic down, paces angrily, but Punk picks up the mic. The fans cheer Punk on again, and Punk stands to thank London, to thank Chicago, to thank Louisville, Kentucky, and to thank ALL the fans. As corny as it sounds, he thanks the WWE Universe who stood by him and chanted his name for TEN LONG YEARS!
Roman says hold on, hold on. Punk shouldn’t be thanking the fans! He should be thanking the Tribal Chief! It is because of Roman that Punk gets this honor! So please, take this moment, close the show with that acknowledgement! Do this the right way. The credits are already rolling as Punk kneels before Roman!? Punk smiles, and he thanks “My Tribal Chief, the holder of the ula fala, the Head of the Table, the… Big Dog? Thank you for allowing a kid from Chicago to be graced by your presence. Thank you, My Tribal Chief, for allowing me to stand in your ring. And thank you so much. Thank you, Roman Reigns, so very much.
“But because of you, I will see you in the main event of WrestleMania.” And again, Rollins is agonizing over this. Punk finishes putting his signature on the contract, and London tells him, “You Deserve It!” Punk thanks Roman again, and then says, “But that’s not the favor that I’m owed.” WHAT?! Roman looks at Heyman and Heyman can’t look him in the eye! If getting this Triple Threat made into the main event isn’t the gift of the Wise Man, then what is?!
My Thoughts:
A good SmackDown, but they pulled off quite the paradox. They made it feel like they were struggling to fill three hours, yet they also filled the show to the point where that contract signing segment was almost bleeding over the three hour mark. Ironically, part of the problem was just how excited the London crowd was for this. The superstars still wanted to enjoy the chants and songs, but that’s time SmackDown doesn’t have to spare. It made the opening promo from Cody, Orton and Drew take longer, and it kinda did the same to the contract signing at the end. Even so, we still got a very good promo, and good stuff to set up Orton VS McIntyre.
Orton VS McIntyre was a great match, but of course Kevin costs Orton. McIntyre gets his win, Kevin and Orton have a bit of a brawl, but of course Kevin ends up on the losing end and runs off. McIntyre’s trash talk also comes back to bite him as Priest gets the better of him in their brawl. Here’s hoping Drew didn’t actually get glass in his eye, but that being the thing in kayfabe can be some good stuff. I can imagine McIntyre with an eyepatch, and he takes it off at the opportune time to get the better of Priest in their match. Also what a fitting choice for Punk to be passing by Drew suffering because of real glass.
Very good title matches tonight, but of course the status quo was kept. Pretty Deadly gets to look great here in London, but the Profits only just got the belts, they’re not going to be transitional champions like that. And Knight VS Braun was really good stuff, but honestly, Jacob Fatu going after them both should’ve been a given. Jacob also had a great promo with Solo & Tama to start adding to that divide between Jacob and Solo. I would hope Solo doesn’t screw Jacob out of the US Championship, but it feels like he will as Solo won’t stand for Jacob defying his authority, even though Solo’s been trying to make Jacob the champion all along.
Very good stuff from Jimmy Uso tonight, from his promo with #MeloDon’tMiz and then a great match with Miz. Their match ended up the de facto main event match, so that’s also great for both guys. Great win for Jimmy, but that’s likely because Jimmy is losing big time to Gunther on Monday. And it might just be me, but it feels like only now is the Jey VS Gunther build really moving, largely in part because Jimmy got involved. Jimmy’s promo after his match is something along the lines of what Jey should be saying. But I suppose as brothers, Jimmy is the one who knows Jey best and knows what Jey needs to be motivated again. And seeing Jimmy get beat up by Gunther will definitely motivate Jey…
Good final vignettes for Rey Fenix and Aleister Black. I’m a little surprised they confirmed Rey Fenix is showing up next week, and that they confirmed who Rey Fenix even is. I believe commentary confirmed Rey Fenix is Penta’s real brother, even namedropped “Lucha Brothers,” but all that is still surprising considering Fenix is going to start on SmackDown. Aleister’s vignette (at least I am fairly confident it’s his) was giving us glimpses of his silhouette, but I think there was usage of AI in the snake imagery. It was fine they did it for El Grande Americano because that is all trolling, but they really should try and do things the old fashioned way of photoshop and stock imagery.
Very good stuff in the Women’s Division tonight, though the WWE Women’s Championship portion was the weaker. Naomi’s got a great Heel persona going, her promo was great, and her going after B-Fab & Michin over them supporting Jade was a great detail. Jade runs Naomi off, helps B-Fab, but there was no helping Michin in being fed to Charlotte. Tiffany had a decent promo, and it does fit how Charlotte kept her from speaking so she finally gets things out here. It didn’t really add that much, though, but they already gave us a great brawl so not sure what more they can give.
KC Squared VS The Secret Her-vice was a very good match, but of course Chelsea made sure her team won. A Six Woman Tag of Zelina & KC Squared VS The Green Administration is certainly coming, to help give us Zelina VS Chelsea for the Women’s US Championship.
My Score: 8.7/10
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 3.27.2025
Bad news out of the TNA management side, but this is a taped episode from El Paso! So we won’t see any of the fallout just yet!
Now we all heard the news about the TNA change in hierarchy, and I…have no positive outlook on that. Delirious sucked at booking and creative in the dying days of ROH before it got bought as a B show. Dreamer having even more control is concerning because his ideas the last two years haven’t been much better.
Gail leaving makes more sense to me. Be it firing or a “you can’t quit, you’re fired” kind of situation, the Knockouts division is the worst it’s been in a long time and Gail was close with Scott D’Amore. So I don’t think Gail parting ways is as big of a problem since TNA has slowly been bleeding out with the Scott faithful.
Granted, I think the next few shows were already taped before the firing so things shouldn’t be completely unwatchable for at least a week or two. So let’s see where we’re going.
.@WeAreRosemary sends @XiaBrookside a CHILLING message!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/srciTTbel0
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Ratings:
- Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge: Ash wins via Rarefied Air – ** 1/4
- Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr: Chavo wins via Gory Bomb into Frog Splash – *** 1/4
- Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich: Masha wins via Russian Death Device – ***
- Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin: Eric wins via Piledriver – ** 1/2
- Seto & Mokuba – I mean – Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater: Nic wins via Danger Zone – *** 1/4
Results:
Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge
Ash and Gigi start off, Gigi with a little Rascalz after her first takedown. So both her and Wentz are making it obvious something’s going on between them, and I’m not mad at it. Good for my man Wentz.
Tatum and Gigi get some quick tandem offense in, Ash does manage to scurry off to a tag and Heather gets bent into a Pretzel. Some kind of Inverted Tarantula from Tatum, Gigi tags in, Bronco Buster on Heather followed by Kawada Kicks. Heather sells against the ropes, Gigi goes for a Hesitation Dropkick, but Concierge pulls her away so Gigi crashes and burns. Ref is distracted, Ash gets in some cheap shots and then the Elegant duo starts working over Gigi. A few quick tags, but once Heather comes in, Gigi fights out of the corner, gets the hot tag to Tatum. Tatum stacks up both Elegance members, Corner Stacked Crossbody, Butterfly Suplex and an Elbow Drop with some some flare. Tatum goes to the top rope, Heather pulls Gigi off the apron, Concierge shoves Tatum off the turnbuckle and Ash hits Rarefied Air for the win.
Post match the Elegance Clique wants to make their wish with the cake, they light the candles and Tatum and Gigi recover enough to do what we all expected last week, the cake in the face spot. Some…suggestive licking from both of our Hot Topic Hotties, so…no complaints here.
.@Ashamae_Sebera, @Heathereckless and @IamGeorgeIceman are having a meltdown!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/FnKwPqm2ff
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr
Chavo and Kaz start since he’s King Petty, a quick rope run turns into a Headscissor from Chavo. Kaz recovers, they lock up, Kaz hits the Knee Lift during the lock up to tag out to KC. KC pulls off some athletic dodges, gloats a bit so Chavo waits, measures and nails a gorgeous Dropkick. Laredo comes in on fire, quick high spots that send KC bouncing around like HBK against Hulk. KC powders after sells the Satellite Takedown, AJ checks on him and we go to commercial.
Back from commercial, Octagon is lighting up KC’s chest with overhand chops, he perches, Sunset Headscissor Flip from corner to corner, KC tries to Back Drop him but Octagon does a headstand, kicks KC away and lays him out with a high spot. AJ gets on the apron to stop Octagon from running the ropes, the referee has a stroke or something because he stops paying attention and AJ pulls Octagon out of the ring and chucks him. KC with the Tope con Hilo and tag (tag ropes haven’t mattered since the 80s we all know this). So AJ is getting taunted by the crowd in Spanish, but he’s manhandling Octagon since it looks like a Child fighting their parent. AJ knocks off Chavo and Laredo, Laredo pops up and tries to get involved but he’s caught on the shoulders, Octagon goes for the Crossbody but gets caught and AJ pulls off “World’s Strongest Wasteland” but Chavo breaks up the pinfall. AJ throws Octagon into the corner, Tennessee Whiskey, and tag out to KC. KC hits a few moves, but starts to lose the momentum until he connects with a Super Kick. Simultaneous rope run into the Dueling Crossbodies, so we get the timely tag outs from both sides. Kaz and Laredo come in, Laredo lands like two moves before Kaz hits a Sole Butt, Lariat and eats his lunch. KC and Kaz try to double team Laredo but he fights out and the crowd is chanting for Chavo.
Chavo tags in, and he’s rocking KC, Saito Suplex, Low Bridge to AJ, Reverse the Whip so Chavo goes to the corner and perches, KC feeds, Chavo Backflips to safety, rolls through and lays out KC. Chavo is feeling himself, 3 Amigos start on KC but only 2, Kaz comes in and Chavo switches to Kaz for the Amigos, only 2 again before AJ breaks it up. AJ goes for the disrespect, but Chavo counters and hits the 3 Amigos on the biggest Culero. Aztec Warriors dive to stop AJ and Kaz, KC tries a Dirty Victory Roll but Chavo kicks out. GORY BOMB into FROG SPLASH!
Chavo looked fantastic and he’s the one in the best shape in the ring. I wouldn’t be mad at more Chavito.
Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich
I expect very little from this match.
Collar and Elbow, gator rolling for the first 30 seconds or so, then Jacy goes to some Hair Pull takedowns and does a little taunt before Masha pops back up and hits a Lariat into a Dive. Jacy sells it like she’s really hurt, even the ref tries to hold Masha back a little before Masha gets annoyed and just grabs her, Masha throws her in, looks for a Dive and Jacy sees it and powders. Masha tries to go back to the well for the Dive again but Jacy hits the Uppercut and then an Apron Run PK to drop Masha. Forearms rain down into a Foot Choke as Jacy continues to arrogantly play to the crowd. Another Foot Choke into a Cannonball, and near fall.
Masha gets space with a Sole Butt, tries to snap off Requiem but Jacy fights off, fights through a Sunset Flip another effective PK keeps Masha on her ass. Jacy looks for a kinda half-assed Camel Clutch as Masha is fighting up, but Jacy runs her into the corner, gets distracted mouthing off to the crowd, so Masha recovers, 5 Hole Up Kick sends Jacy into the corner, Yakuza Kick into Capo Kick for two. Requiem attempt again, but Jacy pushes off, a little back and forth, Masha tries a Backslide but Jacy gets away and hits a V-Trigger but only a 2 count. Jacy looks for the Discus Punch but Masha ducks it, they strike back and forth, but some dodges from both leave the exchange more even. Jacy with the Front Kick to the face sends Masha to the outside. Jacy wants another PK, but Masha blocks, Electric Chair Apron Snake Eyes. Masha throws her in, a PK into a near all. Requiem attempt 3, and thwarted from Jacy with a Superkick into a Neckbreaker. Senton misses from Jacy, Buzzsaw Kick, into Spinning Back Kick and Russian Death Device for the win.
Better than I expected, and Tessa attacks as soon as the bell rings. Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Li make the save after Tessa grabs the belt.
Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin
Ace and Eric tie up, World of Sport start but as soon as Ace starts to get away EY punches him in the face. Eric looks at the camera and says “This is what trust looks like”, turns his back on Ace, when Ace looks to attack, the loser duo cut him off. EY takes advantage of the weird situation, but Ace with some Up and Over quick spots, into an Inside Cradle and La Magistral. EY kicks out of the quick flash attempts, but eats a Dropkick, and Ace goes all Speed Kils on him with fast strikes and then a face buster for another near fall. Strike spot very early in the match, Ace gets the best of it, goes for a Tear Drop Suplex but EY sits on it to block, Headlocks to keep him close and then a snap Lariat into beatdown bully tactics. EY takes the referee’s attention and one of the nerds punch Ace in the face.
Eric tries to lean on Ace, but Ace fires, a few strikes, Click Click Boom, the Miz Seated Lariats in the corner, Mochizuki Triangle Kick connects! Only a 2 count, but Ace seems to be in control. Ace puts EY on the ropes, a few strikes to keep him rocked, wants a Superplex, but EY blocks, bites the face and Macho Elbow gets a very close two count. EY tries the Piledriver but Ace turns it into a Jacknife Cradle,Spinning Heel Kick, calls for The Fold, but the losers hop on the apron to distract, Ace attacks them. Ace tries to time out the Triangle Kick again, but Eric dodges, throws Ace head first through the buckles. As Ace stumbles out of the corner, Piledriver, and it’s over.
Oh look it’s the “we’ll hear from Joe Hendry” segment. Again, I’ve loved this gimmick since Day 1, even didn’t hate his What Culture Pro stuff, but there is such a thing as milking a cow too much.
Elijah interrupts the whole “Who’s next” speech. When Elijah comes out he says he’s not the challenger and he believes in Joe. The crowd wants Elijah to turn on Hendry. Elijah pauses for a moment, and starts proving his friendship with stating his favorite color and a little “You Got a Friend in Me”. The crowd is into singing along and waving their cameras like Lighters to a 30 year old song. THANKFULLY Kaz breaks up the hug fest. Now he gets the “Culero” chant.
Kaz pulls out a Bass…what the hell is this Jam Session. Kaz has to warm up so he plays “La Cucaracha” on the bass. Kaz…is a national treasure. Hendry kicks Kaz out of the ring after his Heelish and playfully racially charged song choices. Kaz tries to sow dissension, but Joe and Elijah pinball Kaz between them. Kaz slips a power move and tries to shove Elijah into Joe but Elijah puts the brakes on, a small tense moment. But then Joe and Elijah play “Nah Nah Nah Nah, Hey Hey, Goodbye”…and that goes right into a commercial. Oddly…perfect.
Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater
Nic shoots the half immediately for a flash pinfall but Leon kicks out at one. Nic continues to keep things grounded with his amateur wrestling skills, and then does a little Dolph Ziggler show off. So Nic isn’t really taking this seriously, and Leon starts getting the best of things with an Arm Wringer, into drag, Shoulder Tackle and rope run as Nic tries to Leap Frog and Leon puts on the brakes and just shoves Nic on his ass. Nic gets annoyed, a few strikes, grinds his face along the ropes, but Leon keeps stringing some offense together, Back Handspring Elbow into his Corner con Hilo.
Ahh the classic formula of the commercial gives the heel the advantage, Twisting Suplex from Leon stops Nic’s offense momentum, right hand, Leon lifts Nic up for something, Nic slips it, kicks him in the gut, looks for the FameAsser, but Leon catches him into a Blue Thunder Bomb variation. Slater wants the Swanton 450, but Nic powders. Leon tries to adjust into a Dive, but Nic cuts him off, counter for counter and a FameAsser out of the counters for a two count. Nic starts the big brother tactics, bootwashes and arrogance, Slater fires, punches into a Yakuza Kick. Leon wants another Lethal Injection variant, but Nic catches him into a Rear Naked Choke. Slater tries to turn it into a pin so Nic breaks it. Leon wants a Leg Lariat but misses and gets unceremoniously dropped by Nic. Nic puts Leon up on the buckles, Superplex possibly but Slater counters, tries to collect himself for a move, but Nic falls into the ropes to crotch Leon, and finally hits the Superplex.
Twist of Slate from Leon, Swanton 450 but knees get up. Locomotion Cradles from both but they kick out, Ryan picks the ankle to trip up Leon just a touch and then Danger Zone ends the match.
Ryan starts the post match beatdown, but the Hardy’s music hits and they come down to the ring for the save. Matt challenges the Nemeths for Rebellion because they’re not medically cleared yet.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Decent story motion, no match was offensive, and there was actually some solid match action for television standards. I don’t have a ton to complain about aside from the Knockouts Division is in a weird spot, and giving Hendry a lot of just talking and hollow payoff segments feels stupid. If we need to hear from him every week, give him a talk segment like Highlight Reel or something. Yes I know First Class just got The Penthouse, but if Hendry is going to talk more than wrestle, give him a talk segment for us to sink our teeth into.
There was the announcement that Xia, Lei Ying and Masha will face Tessa, Jacy and a mystery partner. So you gotta wonder if there’s going to be another NXT mercenary, a surprise return or if it’ll just be Rosemary since she’s got her issues with Xia. Also I just realized that Unbreakable is going to be on a Thursday, seemingly after iMPACT? I’m gonna have to see how they do it, because if there’s an Impact episode and 2-3 hour PLE…I do not want to be awake until 1am. People need to work, and I will be Unwakeable if things go that long.
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