Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (3/13/23)
Raw gets Rated R!
You Think You Know Me.
Raw prepares for WrestleMania, and the Rated R Superstar waits on Finn Balor to respond! Will Judgment Day come to Hollywood?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Johnny Gargano & Dexter Lumis w/ Candice LeRae VS Dominik Mysterio & Damian Priest w/ The Judgment Day; win.
- Cody Rhodes VS LA Knight; Cody wins.
- Elias w/ Rick Boogs VS Bronson Reed; Bronson wins.
- Austin Theory VS Angelo Dawkins; Theory wins.
- Seth Rollins VS Baron Corbin; Rollins wins.
- Bianca Belair VS Chelsea Green w/ Carmella; Bianca wins.
- Street Fight: Kevin Owens VS Solo Sikoa; Solo wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Edge is here!
Just as he promised last week, the Rated R Superstar returns because he wants to end this with The Judgment Day! Fans cheer Edge on as he gets the mic to say, “Providence, I gotta tell ya, that never gets old, that’s why I do this. Listen, I know why I’m here. Providence, y’all know why I’m here. So Finn Balor, get out here right now so we can finally be done with this.” And so the Judgment Day appears on the ramp! They all smirk at Edge but Finn has the mic to say, “Here I am, Edge! Finn Balor, live and in the flesh! And for once, I actually agree with all these clowns, I wanna hear what you have to say. So please, do us all a favor and spit it out.”
Edge tells Finn that’s the thing, Edge isn’t here to say anything. Edge wants to end this. But Finn is gonna hide way over there, right? And if Edge were to run up on Finn, he’d just send “Lurch, Pugsley and Wednesday” after him. And then it’s the same old song and dance for another week. But a few weeks ago, Finn challenged Edge to a match at WrestleMania. But since Finn isn’t man enough to step closer, FINE! Finn has his match! Did they hear that? Finn’s going to WrestleMania! And if Edge thinks the beating at Extreme Rules was bad- “SHUT YOUR MOUTH!! Now you can hear me talk!”
For the last year of Edge’s comeback, he’s wasted it with Judgment Day. And before that, he was in front of a bunch of TV screens in the ThunderDome. Edge does not have time for this. He needs to accomplish what he wants to do before he runs out of time. So Finn pulled Judgment Day out from under Edge, and then made them better. Edge can admit it. Because Finn leaned into what those three with him are: bitter, immature malcontents. This is a weird hybrid, like an “Irish-Mexican-Australian-Puerto-Rican” emo delight. A bougie drink you’d get at a hipster coffee joint, but it has worked.
Every other week, they’ve left Edge laying, and made him say two words he never thought he’d say in “I Quit.” But then they still bashed Beth with a Con-Chair-To. “For the last year, you have tried to make my life a living hell. And a lot of the time, you’ve accomplished it. So the way I see it, there’s only one way that this can end. At WrestleMania, Edge VS Finn Balor, INSIDE HELL IN A CELL!!” Fans fire up hearing that! Finn scowls, and he says, “Edge, I’ve been to Hell before, and it spit me out. Because Hell couldn’t handle my demons! I’ll see you at WrestleMania. But until then…” The Judgment Day rushes up after all!
Priest gets on the apron, he and Edge fire hands, then Dom goes after Edge! Rhea gets in on the mugging, fans boo, but here come THE WAY! Johnny Gargano leads Dexter Lumis and Candice LeRae out and they fight the Judgment Day! Rhea throws Candice out, Lumis hammers away on Dom, but Edge and Gargano go after Priest! The Judgment day was to face Gargano and Lumis at some point tonight, will that be after the break?
Johnny Gargano & Dexter Lumis w/ Candice LeRae VS Dominik Mysterio & Damian Priest w/ The Judgment Day!
Raw returns and indeed, this match is under way! Gargano rains down fists on Dom in the corner, goes way past ten, and then lets off as the ref counts. Fans fire up, Gargano kicks and CHOPS Dom, but Dom kicks and headlocks. Gargano powers out, but Dom runs him over! Dom runs, but Gargano trips him! Gargano runs, dodges Dom and arm-drags him, to then arm-drag again! Gargano fakes Dom out and Dom gets mad. Dom storms up but Gargano rolls him up, SCHOOL BOY KICK! Dom flounders, Rhea panics, and Gargano wrenches. Dom breaks free to tag in Priest. Fans boo but Gargano is game for this rematch.
Gargano and Priest talk some trash, but then Gargano looks to Lumis. Fans fire up and Gargano tags Lumis in! The Tortured Artist seems to creep even the Punisher out. They circle, tie up, and Priest wrenches to a wristlock. Lumis rolls, kips up and wrenches back to then wristlock in return. Priest wrenches back, headlocks, but Lumis powers out. Priest runs Lumis over and dusts himself off. Fans boo but Priest soaks up the heat. Priest runs, but Lumis kips right up! Priest shrugs it off but Gargano taunts Priest not to be scared. Priest kicks low then ROCKS Lumis, then fires off hands in the corner! Priest HEADBUTTS, then lets off.
Priest whips Lumis corner to corner hard, but fans chant “YOU SUCK! YOU SUCK!” Priest KICKS Lumis, whips him to ropes, but Lumis kicks back! Priest wobbles, into a DROPKICK! Priest falls out of the ring, he gets mad, and he runs back in, but into a drop toehold! Lumis floats to a facelock and he tags in Gargano. Lumis bumps Priest off Gargano’s boots, then Gargano wrenches. Priest ROCKS Gargano then dusts himself off. Fans boo but Priest scoops Gargano to SNAKE EYES in the corner! Rhea laughs, Priest tags Dom, and fans boo more as Dom rains down fists! Dom soaks up the heat as fans boo more.
Dom drags Gargano up, whips him corner to corner, then runs in, into KNEES! Gargano runs in to RAAN Dom away! Dom flops out of the ring, Gargano slingshots but Dom gets to the apron! Dom leaps, Gargano dodges and SUPERKICKS! Priest runs in, into an UPPERCUT from Lumis! Gargano then CANNONBALLS and takes out Priest and Dom! Providence fires up with The Way as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Gargano CHOPS Priest! And CHOPS again! Priest blocks the next chop to BELL CLAP! Priest then whips Gargano hard into the Judgement Day corner! Fans boo as Dom tags in but Dom stomps away on Gargano. Dom digs his boot into Gargano but the ref counts. Dom lets off, tags Priest back in, and Priest soaks up the heat. Priest sucker punches Lumis! Priest then runs to back elbow Gargano! Tag back to Dom, Priest hits BROKEN ARROW and Dom adds the SLINGSHOT SENTON! Cover, TWO! Rhea is furious about the count but Dom wraps Gargano up in a chinlock.
Fans rally for “Johnny Wrestling!” and Gargano fights up. Gargano throws forearms, but Dom knees low. Dom gives some Latino Heat, then hits Uno Amigo! And then Dos Amigos! Dom hits THREE AMIGOS and Rhea is happy. Cover, TWO! Rhea is furious again! Dom soaks up the heat, though, and he slaps Gargano around. Gargano stands, and he ROCKS Dom! And again! And again! But Dom ducks to dropkick Gargano onto ropes! Fans boo as Dom dials it up, but Gargano ducks the 619! Then SLINGSHOT SPEARS! Fans fire up while both men are down! Gargano and Dom crawl, hot tags to Priest and Lumis!
Fans fire up as Lumis fires off hands on Priest! Then he dodges a haymaker to hit a SPINEBUSTER! Dom runs in, into a SPINEBUSTER! Lumis runs to clothesline Priest in a corner, then he runs to clothesline Dom! BULLDOG for Dom! Priest kicks, misses, and Lumis hits a BIG back suplex! Kip up to leg drop! Cover, TWO! Lumis keeps on Priest, fireman’s carries, but Dom sneaks a tag! Priest slips free, but Lumis clotheslines him out! Dom GAMANGIRIS Lumis away, then sunset flips! High stack, with feet on the ropes! But Candice shoves those away! TWO!! Lumis and Dom DOUBLE CLOTHESLINE!
Rhea storms up on Candice, but is sent into steps! Candice kicks, but into an Electric Chair! And a SLAM on the barrier! But then Rhea turns around to see Lumis staring at her! Rhea waves hi and blows a kiss, Priest CLOBBERS Lumis! Fans boo but Priest roars. Priest drags Lumis up and into the ring, and hits a COMPLETE SHOT! Tag to Dom and Dom goes up! FROG SPLASH! Cover, GARGANO BREAKS IT! Fans fire up as Rhea freaks out! Priest gets in, but Gargano ducks the heel kick to SUPERKICK! Gargano then builds speed to DIVE! Direct hit and Priest hits desk! But Dom WRECKS Gargano with a dropkick!
Dom hurries to get Lumis up, but Lumis slips free to clinch! THE SILENCE!!! Dom flails, but Priest hurries up! Hot tag, ROLLING ROUNDHOUSE! Choke grip, SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, the Judgment Day wins!
Winners: The Judgment Day, by pinfall
Rhea laughs and celebrates with Priest and her little Dom-Dom! The Eradicator is going after the Queen, the Prince is going to settle things with the Rated R Superstar, will WrestleMania be facing its Judgment Day?
Backstage interview with The Miz.
Cathy Kelley says we’re on the Road to WrestleMania, so she wants to ask the host of WrestleMania- Wait, Chad Gable hurries over. He asks if anyone’s seen Otis. The Miz says he literally just got here, so no. Miz doesn’t travel with hits pets like Gable does. If Gable is looking for his missing dog, put up flyers. Miz has to- SHOOSH! That’s actually a good idea, Gable will go do that. A thank yew! Gable heads out and Miz asks Cathy what she was going to ask. Right, Cathy wanted to know if the Miz was interested in having a cohost. PFFF! Right! Cohost. Is Cathy interested in the position? Well-
No, there is only one star big enough to host Mania, and- Wait! Now Damage CTRL is jumping Trish Stratus! She wants a comeback, so here it is! They throw her into trunks, CLUB her down, then SMACK her off more trunks! Bayley, Dakota Kai & Iyo Sky then TRIPLE BOOT her down! Refs rush over to stop them but the damage is done. Will the star-studded Six Woman Tag now be in question after what we just saw?
Omos & MVP head to the ring.
The Nigerian Giant and his manager are here in person, because they’re going to be face-to-face with Brock Lesnar! Will the ring still be standing after Omos stands up to The Beast?
Raw returns and MVP has the mic to tell Brock Lesnar, “You are a brilliant athlete but a terrible tactician. You made a critical era in putting your hands on me a couple of weeks ago. But the worst, the biggest mistake you’ve ever made in your career was accepting a match against the 7’3″, 416 pound Nigerian Giant, Omos, at WrestleMania. Brock, I want you to understand-” WAIT! Here comes the pain! Fans fire up as Lesnar makes his way to the ring! Lesnar takes a quick lap, then takes off his cowboy hat and gets in the ring. Lesnar seems rather impressed seeing Omos in person. Fans are losing their minds seeing this moment, too!
Lesnar steps up to Omos, seeing he comes up to Omos’ shoulders, and then Omos raises his massive hand. Omos compares the fist to Lesnar’s face. Lesnar is again impressed. Omos offers a handshake, but fans chant for “SUPLEX CITY!” Lesnar shakes hands with Omos, but then Omos doesn’t let go! So Lesnar hits Omos low! Omos elbows Lesnar back and puts on a VICE GRIP! Omos shoves Lesnar up and out of the ring! Lesnar manages to land on his feet, and Omos says “This is MY house!” Fans boo, refs rush out to keep this from escalating, but Lesnar says it’s alright. He just needs his hat back.
A producer gives Lesnar his hat back, and Omos wants Lesnar to come back for more. Lesnar tips his hat and then leaves. Is the Beast intimidated? Or is he simply going to bide his time and plan on how to bring down the Nigerian Giant?
Cody Rhodes VS LA Knight!
The American Nightmare has a lot on his plate with the coming battle against Roman Reigns, but he’s taking on someone with a really big mouth! The Mega Star talked a lot online, but will he back it up against Cody? Or will Knight be speechless after taking on a fired up Cody Rhodes?
Raw returns and LA Knight makes his entrance. The bell rings, the two circle, and fans rally up. Cody and Knight tie up, go around, and fans rally for Cody but Knight puts him in a corner. Knight lets off, but then sucker punches Cody! Knight ROCKS Cody again, whips him to ropes, but Cody reverses to arm-drag Knight! Cody twists the wrist, brings Knight up and wrenches, but Knight reaches for ropes. Cody keeps Knight away from the ropes, but Knight wrenches back. Cody wrenches again, ducks the haymaker and he DECKS Knight! Cody wrenches Knight, hammerlocks, headlocks, but Knight pulls hair!
The ref reprimands but Knight puts Cody in a corner. Knight lets off at 4, but Cody shoves him away. The two talk some trash, Cody counter punches Knight! Cody shoves Knight, dodges him, then waistlocks. Knight switches, Cody trips Knight, then Cody runs to KNEE Knight down! Cover, TWO! Knight bails out but Cody builds speed! Cody DIVES, into a HAYMAKER! Knight drags Cody right out of the ring, but Cody blocks the barrier bump to bump Knight off barriers first! Cody storms up after Knight but Knight SMACKS Cody’s arm off the post! Fans boo but Knight soaks up heat. Cody RAMS Knight into steel steps!
Cody SMACKS Knight’s arm off the steps, SMACKS it off the post, then puts Knight in the ring. Cody goes up but Knight springs up after him! SUPERPLEX! Fans fire up while both men are down and Raw goes to break!
Raw returns again and Cody fights a suplex. Cody suplexes Knight, holds him up, but Knight rakes the eyes! Knight then kicks and DDTs Cody down! Cover, TWO! Cody is still in this but Knight pie faces him around. Knight says, “You just thought I’d be practice, huh?” Knight wraps on a chinlock and he grinds Cody down. Fans rally, Cody fights his way up, and Cody pries the hold open! But Knight knees Cody low! Knight runs, but Cody blocks the kick to spin him, run and CLOBBER him! Cody then drops and RHODES UPPERCUTS! Cody goes to a corner, Knight runs in, but Cody goes up and over! Knight bounces off buckles, into the POWERSLAM!
Cody fires up and the fans are with him! Knight rises, Cody runs and springboards, BEAUTIFUL DISASTER! Cover, TWO! Knight survives but fans rally behind Cody. Cody runs and springboards again, but Knight catches him to a waistlock! SUPLEX SIDE SLAM! Cover, TWO! Knight grows frustrated, he cravats but Cody powers out! Cody dodges, goes up and up, SUPER CODY CUTTER! Fans fire up with Cody again and Knight staggers around. Cody dragon sleepers, for the CROSS RHODES!! Cover, Cody wins!
Winner: Cody Rhodes, by pinfall
The American Nightmare beats the Knight, but he isn’t done! Cody gets the mic to say, “I keep hearing these warnings from Mr. Heyman that I should stay out of Bloodline business. Well I reiterated, I do not work for the Bloodline, and I don’t work for Mr. Heyman. So if I wanna come out here, stand side by side with Sami Zayn, I can do that. If I wanna come out here and fight alongside Kevin Owens, I can do that! And I also hear Mr. Heyman say, ‘Don’t make this personal.’ Don’t make it personal? What a joke! It has been personal since I first appeared on this show at 21 years old in front of these same cameramen!
“It’s personal when week after week, I’m choked up, fighting back tears with every sentence. It’s personal when you wear a protective coat of armor, and I’m not talking about my robe. I’m talking about a tailored suit. And the reason I wear it is not because I think I am somebody. The reason I wear it is because I wanna be somebody. Mr. Heyman talking about acknowledging Roman Reigns? I acknowledge you, dammit. You need to acknowledge me! I am not perfect, but my time since I came back to the WWE has been perfect. I am undefeated. I grew up thinking that I was a prince in this industry.
“And I’ve got no crown, no chip, no Master Sword, no Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. And on April 2nd… When the sun goes down on Hollywood, it is going down on Roman Reigns’ generational run. On April 2nd, it’s not just those who’ve got the Rhodes and the Runnels blood pumping through their veins. It’s every single person who has followed me until the end! On April 2nd, I have waited my whole life, I will wait no more! On April 2nd, Roman Reigns, I pin you, I stick you in this ring, and I become the first Rhodes to say he is the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion!!” The American Nightmare is ready, will he live the dream in Hollywood?
Backstage interview with Seth Rollins.
Byron Saxton asks The Visionary his reaction to Logan Paul knocking him out with a sucker punch. “Logan~. Logan~! HAHAHA!” Last week, Logan acted like he won the lottery! And why? Because he DID! He landed the shot of a lifetime right on Rollins’ chinny chin chin! But if there’s one thing we’ve learned about Rollins these last two years is that you can’t keep him down. And so next time Logan Paul and- Miz walks in. “Seth, Seth, Seth.” “BOO!” Miz gets spooked and says Rollins is just jealous that Logan knocked him out with one punch. Face it, Seth, you lost control of the narrative.
But what would Miz know? Except that he is the host of WrestleMania and he gets privileged information! For example, next week on Monday, Logan Paul conducts a live, WWE edition of ImPAULsive TV! And Miz also knows that he is expected as a guest. But then Baron Corbin walks in. His schedule cleared up, he’s available. Uh, sorry, Logan is all booked up. Then maybe with WrestleMania being two nights, Miz has a lot to do, he could use a cohost. They could take things over! Rollins laughs at that idea nd Miz says he has a lot of pull of Mania. But not that much pull. Oh, okay…
Then Rollins! Logan knocked you out, but Corbin’s a three-time Golden Gloves winner! Corbin can train you in boxing! Rollins tells Corbin that he appreciates the offer, he knows Corbin is going through some tough times. But to be honest, Rollins would rather learn boxing from his baby daughter. Aw c’mon! Corbin is trying here! And Rollins’ daughter is two years old! She doesn’t know anything! Rollins is lucky Corbin isn’t facing him, because Corbin would knock him out even faster than Logan did, and he’d take Rollins’ WrestleMania spot. Oh, really? Because that sounds like a challenge! Lucky for Providence, Rollins is in a fighting mood!
Let’s make it official! Rollins VS Corbin, tonight! See you out there! HAHAHAHAHA! Miz is intrigued. If Corbin handles Rollins, Miz will clear things with Logan. Corbin has a deal. Will the Lone Wolf finally get something to go his way tonight? Or will he just be an example to Logan of what Rollins is capable of?
Elias w/ Rick Boogs VS Bronson Reed!
The Drifter has been trying to teach the rowdy rocker a thing or two, but he might be the one to learn a lesson. Will Elias be swept away by a Tsunami here tonight? Or will the Colossal Aussie #WalkWithElias?
The bell rings and Bronson CLOBBERS Elias, drops a BIG elbow, then hits a ROLLING SENTON! Bronson dusts his hands off while Boogs takes notes. Bronson CLUBS Elias, HEADBUTTS him, then Bronson brings Elias up. Elias fires off forearms, CHOPS, but Bronson blocks the whip. Bronson whips Elias to a corner, to SPLASH! And then he bumps Elias off buckles, before he CLOBBERS him down again! Cover, TWO! Elias survives but Bronson clamps on a chinbar. Fans rally for Elias, chant for “BOOOOGS~!” and Elias fights up! Elias pries free but Bronson knees him low. Bronson whips Elisa but Elias holds ropes!
Elias elbows Bronson, BOOTS him from the ropes, then goes up! Elias leaps, into Bronson’s arms! Bronson pops Elias up but Elias lands on his feet! SYMPHO-KNEE! Elias runs, but into a LARIAT! Bronson ripcords, for the POWERSLAM! Bronson then drags Elias into the drop zone and he goes up top. TSUNAMI!! Cover, Bronson wins!
Winner: Bronson Reed, by pinfall
Hopefully Boogs’ notes say something along the lines of, “Don’t fight Bronson Reed ever.” Elias might be all washed up now, will he ever recover from that Tsunami? Will Bronson soon find himself going for gold?
Cathy Kelley waits outside the trainer’s room.
There is still not an update on Trish Stratus after what DMG CTRL did to her. But in comes Gable with his missing posters. Has anyone seen Gable’s number one guy? No? Well, when you do, give him a call. A thank yew. Gable heads out, but Becky Lynch & Lita come storming in! Cathy wants a comment from them, but they go into the trainer’s room first. Will the Man and the legend get a word from Trish herself?
Backstage interview with Kevin Owens.
Cathy brings up his coming Street Fight with Solo Sikoa, and notes that Kevin’s faced pretty much every member of The Bloodline to date. But he didn’t ask for help from Sami Zayn last week, why is that? Kevin says he did ask for help for a long time, but didn’t get it. What has happened lately is now Sami is the one asking Kevin for help, and with the history between them, is it really that hard to understand why Kevin doesn’t want to fight alongside Sami? Kevin swishes Sami the best, but he doesn’t want any part of it. Kevin is fine fighting on his own, he doesn’t need Sami. And for that matter, Kevin heard what Cody said earlier, he saw what Cody did for Sami last week.
Cody wants to help Sami, that’s his problem. But they talked last week, too, and Kevin told him then that he doesn’t want Cody’s help. Tonight, when Kevin is out there against Solo, do NOT come out there. Cody, you need to focus on Roman Reigns at WrestleMania. Cody has waited his whole life for this moment, and Kevin doesn’t want to be the reason Cody fails. So no matter what, Kevin does not wanna see Cody out there. Kevin will fight Solo, and whoever else he’s gonna bring, on his own. Just like he will keep doing. Kevin heads out, but does he really mean it when he wants to be solo against The Bloodline?
The Street Profits are laughing it up.
But then they spot Austin Theory walk in. It’s Baby Cena! GOO GOO GA GA! Where’s that RUTHLESS! AGGRESSION! Try Montez, partner! But no, he won’t. He’s like in 8 Mile: a choke artist! He ain’t got what it takes. Theory says this is great, all of it, really. Keep doing this because that’s all they’ve got. And chances are, in a couple of months, they’ll just be unemployed. But let’s talk about last week. Yeah, Theory got what he wanted, like he always does, and that is… Hold on, Theory is “rather humble” so he should give this it’s proper due. “The top ballot, the marquee match of WrestleMania, the biggest match, Austin Theory VS John Cena!”
And Cena had a lot to say, but why wouldn’t he? Theory is the biggest thing int he WWE. But the Profits? Not so much. Let’s talk about it. Who even is the toughest between them? Who has that backbone? Who has that fire? That desire? It’s gotta be… Dawkins! But uh, not Ford. When it comes to Ford, well, he’s just a big bag of jokes. The biggest joke is that when Ford is handed an opportunity, he lands flat on his face. But hey, Theory only wishes he could relate to that. But he can’t, because Theory always goes to the top. But that smoke! The smoke they want, the smoke they got. When it comes to that smoke, all Ford does is choke.
Dawkins steps up to tell Theory that Cena’s gonna humble him at Mania. But why wait? Dawkins will cook Theory tonight. Well, sounds great to him! But uh, Theory just thought of something. What’re the Profits doing at Mania? Oh, right. NOTHING! Theory laughs his way out, but will that smug smile be smacked off his face?
Austin Theory VS Angelo Dawkins!
Raw returns and the Profits make their entrance. The bell rings and Theory circles with Dawkins. They tie up, Dawkins shoots around to a waistlock and he SLAMS Theory down! Dawkins stays on Theory as he scrambles up and goes to ropes. The ref counts, Theory elbows Dawkins away. Theory bumps Dawkins off buckles, stomps him, but lets off as the ref counts. Fans chant, “BABY CENA!” but Theory tells them to shut up. Theory whips Dawkins corner to corner, Dawkins goes up and over, then keeps moving. Theory hurdles and rolls but Dawkins handsprings to DROPKICK! Fans fire up and Dawkins fireman’s carries! FLAPJACK! Cover, TWO!
Theory sputters and Dawkins talks smack. Dawkins brings Theory up, but he throws a body shot! Theory throws hands, he RAMS Dawkins into the corner again and again, but the ref counts. Theory lets off with a haymaker, then brings Dawkins back up. Theory snapmares, he clamps on a chinlock and he grinds Dawkins down. Dawkins endures as Theory says this is HIS time. Fans rally and Dawkins fights up. Dawkins throws body shots, but Theory CLUBS him down! Theory scowls, then he drags Dawkins up. Dawkins ROCKS Theory with a right hand! Theory falls to ropes, Dawkins storms up and whips, but Theory reverses.
Theory slides out to trip Dawkins and drag him out, then Theory RAMS Dawkins into barriers! Theory rains down fists and fans boo, but Theory hurries to RAM Dawkins back into the barriers! Fans boo more but Theory dares Dawkins to make jokes now. Theory says this is his time, but Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Theory talks more trash while Dawkins is down in the ring. Fans taunt Theory more but Theory CLUBS Dawkins. Theory says Dawkins disrespected him, and he ROCKS Dawkins again! Dawkins is on wobbly legs but Theory brings him up. Dawkins clinches to an EXPLODER! Both men are down again and fans fire up! Theory drags himself up at the ropes but so does Dawkins. Theory swings but Dawkins counter punches! And again! Dawkins CLOBBERS Theory, CLOBBERS him again, but Theory kicks low. Theory whips, Dawkins hurdles and FLYING ELBOWS! Theory goes to a corner, Dawkins hits the CYCLONE SPLASH and ENZIGURI!
Dawkins keeps going, but Theory fights the underhooks to roll up, with tights! TWO, Theory swings but into the SILENCER! Cover, TWO! Dawkins grows frustrated but he stalks Theory to ropes. Dawkins brings Theory around, but Theory fights the Anointing! Theory runs, but into a POUNCE! Theory flops to the apron but Dawkins storms over. Dawkins drags Theory up but Theory HOTSHOTS him away! Then slingshot and SHOTGUN! Cover, TWO! Theory grows frustrated but then he shakes his head and smirks. Theory says this is about him! “It’s always been about me!” Theory stands up and he storms over to Dawkins.
Theory stands Dawkins up, points to the WrestleMania sign, but Dawkins cradles! TWO!! Theory escapes, but Dawkins sunset flips! TWO!! ENZIGURI! Theory goes to a corner, Dawkins runs in, CYLONE- FOREARM!! Theory fireman’s carries, for A-TOWN DOWN! Cover, Theory wins!
Winner: Austin Theory, by pinfall
The Now wins big and soaks up all the heat from Providence. But he isn’t done, he drags Dawkins into an STF!! Theory sends a message to Cena while also punishing Dawkins! Ford runs out and gets in the ring, but Theory gets away! Theory even copies, “You Can’t See Me!” Will Ford make Theory see him before WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Paul Heyman.
The Wise Man cuts off Cathy’s introduction to say, “We have a problem. As in, #WeTheOnes have a problem. As in The Bloodline has a problem. We’ve identified that problem. You know what that problem’s name is? Kevin. Owens. Tonight, the Bloodline demonstrates we solve all problems, and the Kevin Owens problem will be solved by the Samoan Street Fighting Champion, Solo.” Heyman turns to leave but then turns right back around to say, “And then there’s Cody Rhodes! Cody Rhodes has a problem. Cody Rhodes has mistaken the fact that the truth shall set him free with the fact that the truth will imprison Cody Rhodes’ mind into making stupid mistakes like making this personal to Roman Reigns.
“And I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking, ‘W-Well, it’s already personal to Cody Rhodes!’ Well of course it’s personal to Cody Rhodes! That’s what makes Cody Rhodes such a compelling and intriguing and riveting challenger in the main event of WrestleMania! But to make this personal… to Roman Reigns… by mockingly and sanctimoniously acknowledging his Tribal Chief on worldwide television… What a shmuck. Cody Rhodes, you want to acknowledge your Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns? I’m gonna give you a chance to acknowledge Roman Reigns. Next week, live from St. Loui son Monday Night Raw, your Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, will be here on Raw!
“And Cody Rhodes… You will ACKNOWLEDGE your Tribal Chief! And in that moment, you will make the biggest personal and business decision of your entire life. You will decide at that moment whether you are a challenger, or you are a problem. Because Cody, I assure you, you are a problem that Roman Reigns would love to personally solve.” Will the American Nightmare choose to be a problem from the Head of the Table?
Rey Mysterio is here!
Providence fires up for the King of Lucha Libre and the headlining inductee of this year’s WWE Hall of Fame class! Rey gets the mic to say, “Wow. Wow, wow, wow. Thank you.” Fans chant, “You Deserve It!” Rey says he must admit, it feels really good to be back on Raw. “Just last year, we were celebrating 20 years together. A huge celebration. And here we are, celebrating the biggest honors of my life.” Rey does have to be clear, though. This isn’t just his award. This award is made from the people who helped Rey build up his career. An award made from the fans that connected with Rey for all these years that he’s been in the business.
Rey says this award is not just for him. This award is for all of us! “So, straight up, from-” Wait. Here comes Dom! Dom ruined Rey’s moment on SmackDown, he’s doing it here on Raw. Dom “congratulates” Rey for becoming a WWE Hall of Famer. And he does actually deserve it. Rey put his entire life into the business, and Dom hopes it was worth it. Fans chant “YOU SUCK!” at Dom but Dom says Rey earned this honor, at Dom’s expense! Dom says Rey knows that’s right! But y’know what? Rey put his entire life for this business. Rey chose all of these strangers, instead of his kids! Fans boo and chant “YOU SUCK!” more.
Dom asks Rey how it feels. Is it an honor knowing that Dom went all those nights without having a father? How does it feel? Eighth grade, if Dom got good grades, they’d go out for his graduation. But guess what? That day, Rey was nowhere to be found, because he was at WrestleMania! Rey ditched Dom for Mania! And what else happened? When Dom turned 16, and Rey said he’d get Dom a new car. “What?” A new car. “What?!” Dom’s friends all showed up, they had new Mercedes. And Rey gets Dom a BMW?! And not even an M Series!
Fans boo Dom being a spoiled brat, but Dom tells Rey, “But you’re just afraid. Because I see you for what you really are. And that’s a sad, ugly excuse for a father. No, no, no. Excuse for a man!” Rey tells Dom to take that all back. Dom says that he’ll let Rey enjoy his HOF weekend in LA. But to make it a bit better, Dom challenges Rey to a match at WrestleMania! Fans want Rey to accept! Rey stares Dom down, and says, “I don’t know how many times I have to tell you: I’m not gonna fight my own son. Whether you believe it or not, I still love you, son, and I always will. There will be no match at WrestleMania.”
Fans boo as Rey goes to leave, but Dom asks, “That’s your guys’ Hall of Famer? That’s your guy? Huh? You’re just gonna walk away now? Huh, Mr. Hall of Fame? Yeah, that’s right. Do what you do, the only thing you know how. You ran away from Raw, you ran away from your entire family, and you ran away from ME!” Dom says the only thing Rey has ever taught him is what NOT to be! Rey feels that one, but he still doesn’t give into what Dom wants. Will Dom ever stop tormenting his own father?
Backstage interview with Becky Lynch, Lita & Trish Stratus.
Cathy is again waiting by the trainer’s room. Becky and Lita walk back out with Trish. Do we have an update? Becky says DMG CTRL is gonna get their heads kicked in, that’s the update. Lita says that divide and conquer game didn’t work, they should’ve finished the job. Trish agrees, because she’s been hit a lot harder than that. Now DMG CTRL has pissed her off. Becky, Lita and Trish head out, will they hunt down Bayley, Kai & Sky?
The Miz heads to the ring.
The Hollywood A-Lister is going to join commentary for this next match, because he wants to see if the Lone Wolf can take down the Visionary. Will Corbin clear out a spot for himself at WrestleMania?
Seth Rollins VS Baron Corbin!
Raw returns and Corbin is already in the ring. Rollins makes his entrance, and Providence is ready to #BurnItDown! They sing his song, “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” but Corbin CLOBBERS Rollins from behind! Fans boo as Corbin stomps away and throws down hands! The ref reprimands, Corbin lets off to soak up the heat, but Rollins throws his jacket off. The bell rings, Rollins runs in but into a knee! Corbin ROCKS Rollins, fires off forearms and body shots int he corner, but lets off as the ref counts. Fans sing more but Corbin DECKS Rollins. Corbin drags Rollins up, throws more body shots, then runs, but Rollins fires hands in return!
Rollins has Corbin on the ropes, swings wild, then whips. Corbin reverses but Rollins ducks ‘n dodges and mule kicks! And front kicks! And DISCUS LARIATS! Corbin rebounds but Rollins ROLLING ELBOWS! Then Rollins runs to clothesline Corbin up and out! Fans fire up and sing again, “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” Rollins builds speed, DIVES, and he sends Corbin onto the desk! Miz moves aside but Rollins goes to the apron. FLYING KNEE! Corbin falls over and fans fire up again! Miz tells Rollins to stop pandering to the fans! Rollins taunts “Mikey,” then goes back to Corbin. Rollins throws Corbin onto Miz!
Fans fire up as Miz falls over int he armchair! Rollins puts Corbin in the ring, SUPERKICKS, then runs. But Miz gest on the apron! Rollins PELES Miz! Fans fire up as Rollins aims at both Miz and Corbin! Rollins boosts off Miz to CURB STOMP Corbin!! Cover, Rollins wins!
Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall
Now that’s how you respond to a sucker punch! Fans sing for The Visionary, and Corbin doesn’t get to add himself to anything other than the loser’s column! Will Rollins watch next week’s ImPAULsive TV segment in person?
Gable keeps looking for Otis.
No one has seen him. Mustafa Ali walks over to say hey to “Chaddy Daddy,” and Gable asks Ali if he’s seen Otis. No, he hasn’t. But Ali also hasn’t seen Gable smile. You gotta be more optimistic! Sometimes, the thing you’re looking for is right around the corner. #BePositive, #MustafaMania. SHOOSH! But speaking of, Otis IS right around the corner, taking photos with the Maximum Male Models! Gable asks what this is all about! Wasn’t Mansoor supposed to have a match with Gable tonight? Mansoor says that actually, his chipped his nail while scrolling through Instagram, so they’re not cosmetically cleared until next week.
And Mace tells “Gollum” that tonight isn’t about matches. Tonight is about matching, and they’re working on Otīs’ headshots! Otīs?! Oh, Otis, Gable didn’t know. If he wants to do more than lift weights, then they can do that together! Gable will do some poses, too! Get some shots! NO!! Gable’s broken Mansoor’s camera! It must’ve been Gable’s “Sandoval Ick!” His what? You don’t know? Well, you clearly don’t watch Vanderpump Rules! Tom Sandoval is a DISGUSTING scab on the feet of his Bambi eyed mistress. And Gable… Is grosser than THAT! Come, Otīs. There’s work to be done.
Gable says it’s okay, they may have missed their morning session, but they can cram an hour’s worth of work into 20 minutes. Otis is fine with that, but then Maxxine calls. Sorry, coach. Otis heads out with MMM, is this the end of the Alpha Academy?
Bianca Belair VS Chelsea Green w/ Carmella!
The RawEST Women’s Champion is doing her best to the be readiEST she’s ever been for WrESTleMania, but she’s got to deal with a Hot Mess. Will Bianca be rolling towards Hollywood? Or will Karen- Er, Chelsea get herself a golden ticket to that title without speaking to the (general) manager?
Raw returns as Chelsea makes her entrance, the FABULOUS Princess by her side. The bell rings and the two tie up. Bianca shoves Chelsea right away, and then eggs her on. Chelsea fires off slapping hands and Mella applauds, but then Bianca chases Chelsea to a corner. The ref backs Bianca off as Chelsea complains, and then Chelsea storms up on Bianca. Bianca pie faces her first! The two tie up, Bianca gets around to a waistlock, and she SLAMS Chelsea down! Chelsea fights up, throws Bianca away, but Bianca comes back to run Chelsea over! Chelsea turns to Mella for help, but Bianca whips Chelsea to ropes. Bianca then runs past Chelsea, dodges her boot, and runs her over again!
Fans fire up for Bianca as she drags Chelsea back up. Bianca whips, Chelsea reverses, but Bianca goes up to say kiss this. Chelsea runs in but Bianca goes up and over. Bianca then scoops Chelsea for a BACKBREAKER! STANDING MOONSAULT! Cover, TWO! Chelsea scrambles away to Mella and Mella gives her some tips. Bianca runs in, Chelsea dodges and Mella swipes at Bianca. The ref reprimands, but Chelsea runs to slide and trip Bianca. Chelsea spins Bianca around, the ref tells her to back off and so she does, but that allows Mella to FABULOUS KICK Bianca! Fans boo but Mella gets away with that. Chelsea covers, TWO!
Fans rally for Bianca but Mella says that was close. Mella coaches Chelsea up as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Chelsea soaks up the heat from the apron. But Bianca rolls Chelsea up to a cover, TWO! Bianca gets around, O’Conner Rolls, TWO! Bianca goes up the corner but Chelsea trips her up! DRAPING BACKSTABBER! Mella applauds but fans boo. Bianca crawls away, Chelsea stalks her to the corner, and she grabs the arms. Chelsea motorcycle stretches, but Bianca turns it around to send Chelsea into buckles! Chelsea staggers up, into a SIDEWALK SLAM! Fans rally for Bianca and she stands back up. Bianca runs at Chelsea and rallies with big forearms and clotheslines!
Bianca DROPKICKS Chelsea into a corner, then kips up to storm up. Bianca whips, Chelsea reverses but Bianca goes up and over to RAM into Chelsea! Bianca reels Chelsea in, to suplex! And then SLAM! Bianca kips up again but Mella gets on the apron. The ref reprimands, but Bianca’s handspring knocks Mella down! But Chelsea gets her knees up on the moonsault! Cradle, TWO!! Bianca escapes, but Chelsea SLAPS her! Chelsea then hooks Bianca up, ROLLING KNEE SMASHER! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea panics, she goes for the arms, but Bianca powers out! Bianca scoops, Chelsea slips free!
Chelsea wristlocks and ripcords, but Bianca dodges, only to run into a HARD forearm from Chelsea! Chelsea runs, into a spin and torture rack! KISS OF DEATH!! Cover, Bianca wins!
Winner: Bianca Belair, by pinfall
The KOD spelled disaster for Chelsea, and the EST holds up the belt. But Mella storms in, FABULOUS- NO, Bianca blocks it! But then Chelsea grabs the braid! Fans boo but Bianca DECKS Chelsea! Only for Mella to CLOBBER Bianca! But here comes ASUKA! Asuka runs down to the ring, she slides in, and Chelsea hides because she remembers the mist! But then Mella dodges and Asuka ROUNDHOUSES Chelsea! Bianca ROCKS Chelsea, Asuka URAKENS, and then Bianca hits a SPINEBUSTER! The Hot Mess pays for being a sore loser! But then Asuka picks up the title. She plays around with Bianca a bit, dances with the belt, but Bianca gets annoyed.
Asuka grins and all the blue mist seeps out! Asuka laughs and hands the belt back. Bianca is not amused. Asuka just keeps smiling and then takes her leave. Will the Empress of Tomorrow make Bianca see red? Or will she only see blue when these two have their showdown in Hollywood?
Street Fight: Kevin Owens VS Solo Sikoa!
The Prizefighter has been a problem for The Bloodline for the better part of the last 12 months, and he looks to keep being that problem until The Bloodline falls! Will Kevin #JustKeepFighting until that happens? Or will the Enforcer of the Island cross one problem off the list on the Road to WrestleMania?
Raw returns and Kevin makes his entrance. He eggs Solo on so Solo meets him at the ramp! The bell rings right as they start throwing hands! Fans fire up, Kevin knees low and fires off haymakers! Kevin puts Solo in the ring, but Solo stomps Kevin down. Solo HEADBUTTS Kevin, CHIPS him against ropes, then whips him to ropes. Kevin reverses to CLOBBER Solo! Then SENTONS! Fans fire up with Kevin as Solo goes to the corner. Kevin runs in but Solo bails out. Kevin is annoyed but he just goes out after him. Solo UPPERCUTS Kevin first! Then RAMS him into barriers! Fans already chant, “We Want Tables!”
Kevin kicks and CHOPS and ROCKS Solo! Kevin whips, Solo reverse band Kevin hits barriers, but he comes right back to CLOBBER Solo again! Kevin scowls, he stands on Solo’s fingers, and then he ROCKS Solo with a haymaker. Kevin CHOPS Solo, stalks him, but Solo knees low! Solo CHOPS Kevin, SMACKS him off the desk, then SMACKS him off it again! Kevin blocks to SMACK Solo off the desk in return! And again! Solo staggers back, Kevin brings Solo around, and puts him in the ring. Kevin hurries back in but Solo SAMOAN DROPS him! Solo snarls, he storms up on Kevin and CLUBS him down!
Solo stomps away at the ropes, then grabs an arm. Kevin grabs the ropes but Solo stomps him down. Solo then drags Kevin to center for a FALLING HEADBUTT! Kevin scrambles away to the outside but Solo pursues. Solo looks under the ring, and he brings out a chair! And then another chair! But Kevin CLOBBERS Solo! And RAMS him into steel steps! Kevin brings out the TABLE! Providence fires up as Kevin sets that up, only for Solo to SUPERKICK him! Solo then TOSSES Kevin over the announce desk! Fans boo as Solo puts the table back under the ring, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Kevin is throwing chairs into the ring! The ref has to get clear of that last one! Kevin then hurries back into the ring, grabs a chair and pursues Solo to JAM him with the chair again and again! And then he SMACKS Solo on the back! Kevin gets in the ring and he sets some chairs up in a square. Fans fire up, Kevin makes the square more a rectangle, and then he drags Solo into the ring. Kevin ROCKS Solo with a right, makes him take a seat, then BOOTS him down! Solo lies down on the chairs, Kevin climbs, but Solo springs up to ROCK Kevin! Solo HEADBUTTS away on Kevin, then climbs up!
Fans freak out as Solo brings Kevin up! Kevin throws body shots! Kevin HEADBUTTS Solo, HEADBUTTS him again, and then HEADBUTTS a third time! Solo stays up, Kevin HEADBUTTS him again! Solo hops down, only to grab Kevin by his face! ROCKET LAUNCHER onto the WRECK-TANGLE!! Fans lose their minds, Solo clears the chairs out and the ref checks Kevin. Cover, TWO!!! Kevin survives and he rolls out of the ring, but Solo pursues again. Kevin kicks low and POSTS Solo first! Then POSTS him again! Then CANNONBALLS against the barriers! Kevin hauls Solo up to dump him over the barriers!
Fans fire up as this fight now goes into the crowd! Kevin ROCKS Solo, follows him along the back way, and throws more forearms! Kevin brings Solo to the stage, and RAMS him into the titantron! Solo staggers backstage to gorilla! Kevin pursues, but DOUBLE SUPERKICKS meet him! The Usos were waiting! This was the trap all along! Solo, Jimmy & Jey all drag Kevin back to ringside! Fans boo as the Bloodline mugs Kevin and then put him in the ring. Fans chant for “SAMI! SAMI!” but the mugging continues! DOUBLE SUPERKICKS!! Solo drags Kevin up, for the SAMOAN SPIKE!!! Cover, Solo wins!!
Winner: Solo Sikoa, by pinfall
Kevin knew the Bloodline would all jump him, and he was right! Kevin is left sputtering and drooling in the middle of the ring, will nothing stop The Bloodline from solving all their problems by WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
A great Raw here, though I do feel like the Bloodline segments weren’t as strong tonight. It may have just been that they were actually more straightforward and about the action. Cody VS LA Knight was a random match but apparently built on social media. Cody of course won, he was gonna win against whoever he faced tonight, and he had a very good promo to follow. Heyman also had a good promo that responded in part to Cody’s. Kevin also had a good promo, and we got a great main event, even though it was only 15 minutes. And of course, Solo got help from The Usos. This was par for the course for the Bloodline but it was meant to prove Kevin is wrong on not needing anyone, as that moment where he reconciles with Sami is still coming.
Great stuff in the Judgment Day stories, from Edge and Finn officially setting their WrestleMania match. Hell in a Cell at WrestleMania is pretty big, and I kinda hope Finn mentioning “his demons” means he’ll be some sort of Demon Balor. Rey and Dom of course had another interaction, though Dom kinda repeated/reworded some of what he said on SmackDown. But Dom also added a bit of the element Michael Cole keeps bringing up about Dom being privileged and spoiled, and that was pretty funny stuff. Dom challenging Rey to a match is fitting of the story, and while Rey doesn’t want to, something’s gotta bring them to something for Mania.
Also, great transition from Edge’s promo into the Judgment Day VS Gargano & Lumis match. Gargano will be busy with Grayson Waller at Stand & Deliver, he doesn’t need to be part of Mania stuff, but I was hoping we’d get more in the way of the Women’s Tag Division. DMG CTRL beating up on Trish was a good way to hype the Six Woman Tag, but I of course was still hoping for a big tag title match. Maybe Backlash can do that to make WWE’s return to Puerto Rico even bigger. Plus, more time to build to such a match, or rather rebuild the Women’s Tag Division across Raw and SmackDown.
Bianca VS Chelsea with Mella ringside was good stuff. Bianca of course wins, but of course Mella and Chelsea beat her down to bring out Asuka. Asuka continues to come out in a very Yakuza kind of outfit (I’m thinking the games more than real-life Yakuza) is a neat look for her. Asuka is a Face but her teasing Bianca was a nice touch. I still think Asuka should win to make this new persona strong. Then good stuff from Theory and the Profits, though Theory maybe stumbled over his words a bit. Theory VS Dawkins was a really good match, and of course Theory won, but I like that he’s getting on Ford’s nerves. I said before that Cena isn’t winning the title at Mania, because he can’t be back full-time. But if they do it right, Ford can be the guy to dethrone Theory at Backlash.
Hilarious stuff from Gable all night, as well as “Otīs” hanging out with MMM. We’re getting closer and closer to Gable fighting to keep Otis in the Alpha Academy or lose him to MMM completely, that’ll be good stuff. Bronson squashing Elias was also a thing, and I am hoping Boogs’ notes will be about as useless as last week about Lashley beating Elias. Good stuff from Miz, Corbin and Rollins, “Desperate Corbin” is definitely his new form. Corbin VS Rollins was surprisingly short, and almost hilariously because of how Miz ended up getting involved. Rollins will of course want to get involved with Logan’s segment next week, and that will be a lot of fun, too.
My Score: 8.6/10
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IF YA SMELLALALALALALA~…!
As Cody Rhodes teams with Damian Priest & Braun Strowman against Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline, FINALLY, The Rock has come back to SmackDown!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso; Jimmy wins.
- The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & LA Knight; Miz & Melo win.
- Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae w/ Nia Jax; Tiff wins.
- Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez; No Contest.
- WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly; Pretty Deadly wins, by disqualification, and DIY retain the titles.
- Six Man Tag: Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga; changed to…
- Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga; Priest & Braun win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes talks with Nick Aldis backstage.
They shake hands, but the SmackDown General Manager tells the WWE Champion there’s been a change: Cody’s out of the Six Man Tag match. What? Why would Aldis do that? It is out of Aldis’s hands. Wait, Solo Sikoa shows up to do what he did, but they can’t do the Six Man Tag that they advertised? How is this out of Aldis’s hands? Who do they need to talk to so they can do the match? Aldis says there’s no one either of them can call, if you smell what’s cooking. This is coming from The Final Boss, and The Final Boss wants to see Cody in the ring tonight. What business could The Great One have with The American Nightmare?
Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso!
The Scottish Terminator rubbed it in Big Jim’s face that only one of them is going to Elimination Chamber in Toronto, which Big Jim was able to brush off. But McIntyre harping on how only one Uso is going to WrestleMania was a step too far. These two look to have it out, but is Jimmy just playing into McIntyre’s hands? Or will McIntyre get embarrassed by “the other Uso” this close to that big time match?
Speaking of, Jimmy has a message for Drew as he heads to gorilla. “Everybody know you’re going to Elimination Chamber, right? But Big Jimmy got a question for the Big Easy: Will Drew go onto the Elimination Chamber and win that? Will Drew go onto WrestleMania and win that? Ey, Drew, I think we got an answer for you, Uce. The answer is…” “NO YEET!” Jimmy makes his entrance, the bell rings, and the fans rally behind Jimmy. Jimmy and Drew jaw, and then Drew raises his hands, to say UP YOURS! But Jimmy ROCKS and CHOPS away! Drew puts Jimmy in a corner, Jimmy dodges to CHOP!
Jimmy climbs and he rains down fists! The fans count, Drew dumps Jimmy tot eh apron at 5, but Jimmy GAMANGIRIS! Jimmy goes up, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Jimmy hurries to CHOP, then he whips. Drew reverses to send Jimmy to the corner. Jimmy BOOTS back, goes up, and leaps, but into a clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders to a corner, Drew runs up to SPLASH and OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders again, the ref has Drew hold on, and Jimmy bails out. Drew storms out to get Jimmy and he whips Jimmy HARD into barrier! The fans boo but Drew looms over Jimmy.
The ring count starts, Drew mockingly calls him “Jey,” then puts Jimmy in the ring. Drew says NO MANIA for Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, ROCKS him, then runs up, only for Jimmy to put him on the apron! Drew blocks a superkick, but not the DRAGON WHIP! Drew drops, Jimmy DIVES! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! Jimmy grins, goes back to the apron, and then aims. But Drew stops the Penalty Kick to THROW Jimmy down! Drew then has Jimmy in the Reverse Alabama Lift! REVERSE ALABAMA SLAM onto the steel steps! Drew stands on the desk to say “NO YEET!” while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew revels in the heat from New Orleans, then he leaves Jimmy behind. The ref checks Jimmy, he’s able to continue, so a ring count starts. Drew paces while Jimmy stirs. Jimmy drags himself up using the desk, then lunges in at 9! Drew is annoyed but he rains down fists! Drew stomps Jimmy, then eggs him on. Jimmy rises as the fans rally, but Drew is right on him in the corner. Drew winds up, but Jimmy counter punches! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And whips, only for Drew to reverses. Jimmy goes up, but Drew KICKS him out of the air! Drew then hauls Jimmy up, snap suplex! Cover, TWO!
Drew says okay, Big Jim. He clamps onto Jimmy with a top wristlock and grinds the arm. Jimmy fights up, fireman’s carries, but Drew elbows free. Drew bumps Jimmy off buckles, then hauls him up to the top rope! Drew CLUBS Jimmy on the back, climbs up, then CLUBS Jimmy more. Jimmy fires elbows and Drew drops back. But Drew runs up to CLUB Jimmy again! SmackDown returns to single picture as Drew CLUBS away on Jimmy again! Jimmy keeps taunting “Jey,” then drags him up. Jimmy fights the back suplex! The fans rally, Jimmy fires hands and a HEADBUTT! Jimmy SMACKS Drew off the post!
Jimmy rises to USO IN THE WIND! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! A standing count starts while both men stir on the mat. They both stand at 5, and Drew swings! Jimmy counter punches, then fires more shots! Mule kick, UPPERCUT, but then Jimmy dodges Drew! SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Drew is tougher than that, but Jimmy hurries to a corner. Jimmy aims as Drew goes to the other corner, “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs, but Drew FLYING HEADBUTTS! The Glasgow Kiss stuns Jimmy, and Drew hits a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Jimmy shows his own toughness, and the fans rally behind him.
Drew paces, then he stalks Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, reels him in, but Jimmy fights the underhooks! Jimmy wrenches, UPPERCUTS, but Drew ROCKS Jimmy back! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, Drew HAYMAKERS! Drew whips, Jimmy reverses and Drew ends up on the apron! Drew ROCKS Jimmy first, then climbs the corner! FLYING- SUPERKICK! Jimmy runs to SPEAR! Cover, TWO!! Drew survives, Jimmy’s spear doesn’t hit quite like The Tribal Chief’s. Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and the fans rally up. USO- NO, Jimmy rolls through as Drew moves! Drew dodges a lariat to NECKBREAKER!
Both men are down, the fans rally, and Drew kips up! Drew scowls as he aims at Jimmy. “THREE! TWO! ONE!” CLAY- SUPERKICK!! Jimmy hits first! GLASGOW KISS returns! Drew reels Jimmy in, “This is your WrestleMania! This is as close as you get!” Drew shouts Jimmy is nothing, then ROCKS him with forearm after forearm! GLASGOW KISS! Another Reverse Alabama, but Jimmy victory rolls it! JIMMY WINS!!!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Drew is furious, but his own ego caught him there! But then Drew CLOBBERS Jimmy! The fans boo Drew being a sore loser, but he puts Jimmy back in the ring! Drew rains down fists, then he DRIBBLES Jimmy off the mat! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but Drew says that was Jimmy’s Mania Moment! Drew will win the Chamber, he will go to Mania, and he will win there! Jimmy means NOTHING to Drew! Drew puts Jimmy up against the post, then takes aim! The fans boo, but refs and producers rush out here! They swarm Drew to keep him from going after Jimmy again. Drew says fine, fine, then takes his leave.
Producers help Jimmy to his feet, but then Drew BLASTS through the refs! CLAYMORE for Jimmy!! The Scottish Terminator hits his target, then laughs as he actually leaves. Will McIntyre make this his Road to WrestleMania?
A car pulls into the parking lot.
And out steps Solo Sikoa. Solo heads inside, and he finds Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga waiting. Solo tells them that last week with Tama, that was an accident. Jacob says yeah, it’s all good, Uce. But keep it 100: If it wasn’t an accident, Solo wouldn’t be standing here right now. Well, good! Glad to see we’re all on the same page. Solo says he will be in the corner during the match for Jacob & Tama. Uh, no, Solo, no disrespect, but Jacob & Tama have been running things on SmackDown these past couple weeks. So tonight, it’s Jacob & Solo running the play? Yadada mean? Yeah, of course. And that right there, Jacob, is exactly why Solo loves him.
Solo says he’ll be back, he has to talk with Nick Aldis. Solo heads out, but will he really just step right back into place from before he lost the ula fala?
Carmelo Hayes is backstage.
R-Truth calls out to Melo, and says for the first time ever, Truth VS Melo! What’s Truth talking about? Duh, they have a match. No, Truth, Melo knows. But they had a match last week. Truth says he has never met Melo in his life, but they have a tag match tonight. What? No, they don’t. Who even made this match? Him. Truth, they are not going through this H1M who’s on first thing again. Melo is H1M. No, him made the match. The Miz!? Miz says he’s H1M. So now there’s two of you? No no no! Melo is H1M, this is The Miz! Yeah, #MeloDon’tMiz! NO! That’s not a thing! Tonight, they are. Who’s Truth’s partner?
Truth says he’s got a guy. A Louisiana legend! In fact, he just got here, so Truth’s gotta go. Laters. Miz says he has been workshopping this, and the fans love it. Think about it: Melo Don’t Miz! Melo Don’t Miz! And we are…! Melo shakes his head. Truth steps in and says Miz just wants Melo to say, “Awesome.” Miz offers a fist bump, Melo says no. Will Melo wish he had missed tonight’s show? Or will Miz actually help H1M get another win?
Zelina Vega speaks.
“My whole life, people have taken one look at me, and they try to define me. My size has never stopped me before. It never stopped me from becoming tag team champion. Or my personal favorite, the history-making first-time-ever Queen of the Ring. That’s me. Make no mistake about it, I’ve never had it easy. I had to scratch and claw to get anything around here. But this is a fresh start. Because I have something to prove. And my dreams are a lot bigger than your measuring stick. It ain’t over until Zelina Vega says it’s over.”
The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & ???
Miz makes his entrance but Melo kinda steps all over it. So he already missed his cue… But who did Truth find to team with him in the Big Easy? We’ll see, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Truth makes his entrance. “What’s up?” Well, more like who is his partner? He’ll tell us! His tag team partner is a local legend, born and bred right here in New Orleans! Ladies and gentlemen, welcome Louisiana Knight! Wait, he means L A Knight! Yes, Louisiana abbreviated is LA, but that’s not… Oh, Truth… Truth gives Knight a Po’ Boy and some Mardi Gras beads, so Knight embraces it. The teams sort out, and Truth calls out him! Does he mean Miz or Melo? Well, Melo says he is H1M, so that’s who starts. The fans cheer on Knight while Truth and Melo tie up. Melo KNEES low, whips, but Truth reverses.
Melo springboards, FADEAWAY JUMPER! Melo makes his free throw, but Truth drop toeholds! Truth headlocks, Melo powers up and out but Truth whips! Melo turns hip toss into lateral press, TWO! Truth has a ghost pin, TWO! Melo trips to cover, ONE! Truth trips to cover, ONE! Melo runs up, Truth does the splits, and then hits a BIG hip toss! The fans fire up, Truth counts, Melo gets up at TWO, but Truth was just goofing. The ref explains to Truth that he is the ref, not Truth! Melo is annoyed, he runs up on Truth, but Truth wrenches him around! Melo pulls hair but Knight tags in. The fans fire up as Knight fires hands!
Knight ROCKS Melo, whips Melo, but Melo reverses! SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Knight drags Melo up to tag Truth back in, and Truth ROCKS Melo! Melo staggers, but he refuses to tag! Truth arm-drags Melo, then grinds the arm. Melo insists he’s got this, then arm-drags free. Truth staggers up, he and Melo bump heads! Truth staggers around more, and he tags Miz?! Truth forgot The Awesome Truth isn’t a thing anymore! Again! Melo BLASTS Truth off the apron, the fans boo, but Miz tags himself in! Melo is annoyed, but Miz goes to fetch Truth while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again, and Melo has Truth. Truth ROCKS Melo, but Melo holds onto the wristlock! Truth reaches for Knight, Knight reaches for Truth, but Melo holds on. Truth takes a swing, but into an O’Conner Roll! TWO and Melo BLASTS Knight! Truth rolls Melo up, TWO! Melo kicks low, calls his shot, but Truth suplexes for a STUNNER! The fans fire up while both men are down! Truth and Melo crawl, hot tags to Miz and Knight! The fans fire up as Knight rallies on Miz! “YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips, Miz reverses, but Knight lEAPING LARIATS! Knight TOSSES Melo in for good measure!
Knight stomps a mudhole into Melo, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” LARIAT for Miz! KNEE for Melo! Knight scoops and POWERSLAMS Miz! Knight keeps running, JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Knight stays on Miz as he brings Miz up. Knight ROCKS Miz, then ROCKS him again! Knight whips, Miz grabs the ropes. Miz KICKS, then takes a swing, but into a back suplex! Miz lands out, tag to Melo! Miz ELBOWS Knight, but Knight scoops! Miz tilt-o-whirls through, Melo SUPERKICKS Knight down! cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Melo says he’s got this! Melo waits on Knight, then leaps, but NO 48!
Knight kicks low, but NO B F T! Tag to Truth! Knight ELBOWS Melo, Truth runs in! CENA SHOULDER TACKLES! Then the SPIN OUT BOMB! Truth says it’s time! “YOU CANT SEE ME~!” truth runs for the FIVE KNCUKLE SHUFFLE! Truth then fireman’s carries, but Melo slips free! Melo shoves, Truth dodges, and Truth hits the LIE DETECTOR! Truth then gets Melo in the S T R-TRUTH! But Miz CLOBBERS Truth! Knight ROCKS Miz, then LARIATS him up and out! Knight then goes out to THROW Miz into barriers! The fans fire up again, but NAKAMURA ATTACKS KNIGHT!
The fans boo, but the sinister samurai then POSTS Knight!! Nakamura slithers away while Melo keeps the ref’s attention! Truth sees Knight is down, Melo runs up, but Truth dodges! Miz tags in, full nelson, and a FIRST 48 FINALE COMBO?!? Cover, Miz & Melo win!!
Winners: The Miz & Carmelo Hayes, by pinfall
Well, what do you know? Nakamura aside, Miz and Melo made it work! Okay, they’re both trying to hog the spotlight, but is there a future for Melo Don’t Miz? Will Knight only have more of a reason to take that title off Nakamura now?
Charlotte Flair speaks.
“The GOAT… doesn’t have to call themselves The GOAT. Now, I have crafted a legacy that no one, I mean no one, can touch. And I’m back.” The Women’s Royal Rumble Winner chose Tiffany Stratton, but will The Queen take back her throne? Or will WWE always be on #TiffyTime? Speaking of…
Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae!
The WWE Women’s Champion may have gotten past Nia Jax, but now she knows Charlotte Flair is waiting for her at WrestleMania, and is going to be teaming with Trish Stratus in Toronto! Will she be in Tiffy Top Shape for that Tiffy Trishy dream match? Or will the Poison Pixie be quite the problem all on her own?
Before the match, Tiff grabs a mic while the fans cheer. Tiffy says, “I know, I know. You know it, you know it, and you know it. Ever since I won this title, everybody’s just been so obsessed with me. And last week, I had Nia Jax beat, until Candice LeRae decided to interfere and help her little meal ticket. And at Elimination Chamber, Trish Stratus and I make sure the Unstoppable Force comes to a definitive end!” The fans cheer that, but Tiff says enough about them. Let’s talk Charlotte Flair. The fans boo that name, but Tiff says Charlotte took her sweet old time, grabbed a chair, grabbed a mic, and she looked down on Tiff.
Charlotte chose Tiff as her WrestleMania opponent. In that moment, Tiff’s dream came true! And as she lied down there and looked up at Charlotte, she realized the rumors are true: No one loves to kick a girl when she’s down quite like Charlotte Flair. So at WrestleMania, Tiff isn’t coming for Charlotte’s legacy; that’s all Charlotte’s. Tiff is coming for the spot Charlotte desires the most: The number one spot as the top girl in the WWE! But here comes Nia & Candice to interrupt. Nia has a mic to tell Tiffy, “I Have to say, this is really cute. Like, it’s really cute that you actually think you were gonna beat me last week.”
Doesn’t Candice think that is cute? Candice says yes, it is so~ cute. And Tiff wouldn’t even be standing there if not for little Trish Stratus~. Exactly! And it’s even cuter that Tiff is out here talking about Charlotte when she wont’ even see WrestleMania! Because after Nia & Candide destroy Tiff at Elimination Chamber, Nia is coming back for her WWE Women’s Championship. Nia & Candice step up to the ring, and Nia says Tiff won’t even see the Grandest Stage of Them All. Tiff tells Nia to just give it up. This title isn’t even hers anymore. And once Tiff beats Candice tonight, Nia won’t have anyone to do her dirty work anymore!
Candice tells Tiffy that while they’re meant have a match right now, she and Nia are feeling impatient. Nia says they should just get rid of Tiff right now! But the ref steps in and says not gonna happen! Tiff VS Candice will, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Candice has Tiffy down with an armlock. Tiff fights up as the fans rally, but Candice wrenches to wristlock. Tiff spins through, goes to ropes, then up the corner to flip and arm-drag! The fans fire up as Tiff rallies on Candice! DROPKICK, and Tiff snarls! Tiff goes to the corner, and Charlotte makes her entrance? The Queen chooses to be fashionably late all so everyone looks at her, including Tiffy. Tiffy handsprings, but Candice dodges! Candice runs up to UPPERCUT, then she snapmares and NECK SNAPPERS! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Candice clamps onto Tiffy with a top wristlock.
The fans “WOO~” as Charlotte now chooses to join commentary. Tiff fights up, has the ROPEBREAK, but Candice CLUBS away on her! Candice backs off, runs up, but Tiff drop toeholds her to ropes! Tiff runs, HIP ATTACKS, and Candice flops back! Cover, TWO! Tiff stays on Candice with a whip, but Candice reverses. Candice CLOBBERS Tiff, covers, TWO! Charlotte corrects Tiffy’s words earlier: Charlotte isn’t the “top girl,” she is THE woman in WWE. Candice HIP DROPS Tiff but the fans rally up. Candice scuffs Tiff, then grinds an arm to drop a knee on the elbow! And another knee drop! Tiff endures and the fans rally up.
Candice keeps on that arm, thrashes it around, but Tiff fights up. Tiff fires body shots, then shoves Candice to Alabama Lift her! Candice sunset flips, Tiff rolls through, TIFFY STOMPS! Cover, TWO! Tiff is frustrated and Candice bails out. Tiff goes to the apron, goes up the corner, and ARIHARA MOONSAULTS! Direct hit on Candice and Nia, and Tiff almost stuck the landing! The fans fire up with Tiff and she goes into the ring. Tiff points to the WrestleMania sign, and then at Charlotte, but SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Tiff waits on Candice, Candice slides in, and Tiff stomps her down! Candice bails out, Nia is there to coach her, but Tiff lets the ring count start. Candice gets on the apron, Tiff kicks her, but Candice RAMS Tiff! Candice CLUBS Tiff, has her in the ropes, and hits a NECKBREAKER HOTSHOT! Candice climbs, aims, and leaps to MISSILE DROPKICK Tiff down! Cover, TWO! Candice is frustrated but this is why Tiff’s a champ. The fans rally, but Candice stomps Tiff! Candice scowls at the fans, stalks Tiff, then brings her up. Tiff fires body shots, then she rolls Candice up! TWO, and Candice CLOBBERS Tiff! Cover, TWO, into a ghost pin! TWO!
Candice escapes to hit a CODE BREAKER! Both women are down, but Candice scowls again as she crawls over to Tiff. Candice rains down fists, Nia tells fans to shut up, and Candice steps on Tiff’s face. Candice huffs ‘n’ puffs, pushes Tiff around, then scuffs her. Tiff rolls Candice up again, TWO! Candice DECKS Tiff! Cover, TWO! Charlotte is stoic on commentary as Candice drags Tiff up and puts her in a corner. Candice fires hands, then backs off. Candice runs up to ROCK Tiff again! Candice then runs, but Tiff dodges! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Tiff rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT! The fans fire up, Tiff handsprings, BACK ELBOW!
Tiff then reels Candice in for a SKY HIGH! High stack, TWO! The fans rally for Tiff, Nia coaches Candice, but Charlotte still seems nonplussed. Tiff and Candice rise, and Candice runs up. Candice puts Tiff on the apron, but Tiff ROCKS her! Tiff bumps Candice off buckles, then goes up, but Candice ROCKS her back! Candice climbs up, and she fires hands on Tiff! Tiff fights the suplex! Tiff DECKS Candice, then adjusts position, to SANTON- FLOP! Candice ghost pins, TWO!! Tiff escapes, but Candice hits the step-up SENTON! And then a LIONSAUL FLOP! Tiff hurries to fireman’s carry, ROLLING SENTON! And then PRETTIEST MOON- NO, Nia drags Candice out of the ring!
The fans boo, Nia tells them to shut up, but Tiff is on the apron! Nia swings, Tiff cartwheels over, and then she DROPKICKS Nia! Tiff Alabama Lifts Candice, to ALABAMA SLAM her into barriers! Tiff stares down Charlotte, tells her just wait for Mania, then she puts Candice in the ring. Tiff goes to the corner, PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Cover, Tiff wins!
Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall
Charlotte gives moderate applause, but Nia CLOBBERS Tiff from behind! The fans boo, but Nia just drags Tiff to a corner. Nia goes up, but wait! Trish is here!! The fans fire up for the legend as she rushes into the ring! Trish avoids a haymaker to CHICK KICK! Then THESZ PRESS for Candice! And then a SPINEBUSTER! Trish helps Tiff to her feet, but Nia grabs them both! Trish fires fast hands on Nia! Candice CHOP BLOCKS Trish! Tiff is still dazed, Nia HEADBUTTS her back down! Nia & Candice mug Trish, and then Nia HEADBUTTS Trish! Trish & Tiff are side by side, and Nia drags them into the drop zone! A-NIA-LATOR!!
The fans boo but there’s nothing can be done! Nia grins as she helps Candice away, will these two trash Trish & Tiff in Toronto? Charlotte steps into the ring, stands over Tiff, and points to the WrestleMania sign. Will The Irresistible Force & Poison Pixie unwittingly do the dirty work of The Queen of Flair?
Cody talks with Damian Priest backstage.
Priest asks why Cody’s boy, The Rock, is here tonight. Cody says given the time of year, his guess is as good as anyone’s. But tonight will surely be eventful. Cody congratulates Priest on entering the Elimination Chamber. Priest says what’s wild is, last year, they both walked out as champions. What sucks is that this year, only one of them can. Now, Priest is man enough and he respects Cody to say that after Chamber, he’s coming for that title. Cody says he wouldn’t have it any other way. Cody heads out, but what business does The Rock have tonight?
Braun Strowman steps in, and he tells Priest that congrats on winning, and good luck in the Chamber. But let’s be honest, Braun had Jacob dead to rights last week. If not for Solo Sikoa, things would look a lot different next week. Priest chuckles and says take it easy, he’s sounding like Drew with the excuses. But it is what it is, Priest just beat Braun to the punch. But that was last week. Tonight, Solo and Jacob, two of the baddest men in the business. Priest & Braun handling business? Oh, they’re handling business. The only business Braun cares about is getting his hands on those two. Priest says Braun definitely will.
Braun heads out, will the Monster of All Monsters and the Archer of Infamy make sure Solo & Jacob #GetTheseHands? Or will the rogues run roughshod all over SmackDown once again?
Backstage interview with Naomi & Bianca Belair.
Byron Saxton is with the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and brings up last week’s SmackDown, the security footage led us to believe Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez were the ones behind Jade Cargill’s attack. Now, hold on, Saxton. They don’t think, Naomi knows they were. Fair enough. But this Monday, they can get their revenge when they defend the tag titles against Liv & Raquel. How ready are they for this match? Bianca says so ready! They have been waiting for months for an update. Jade has been recovering, she hasn’t been able to call or text, so the GlowEST took matters into their own hands to get revenge.
Bianca & Naomi will handle Liv & Raquel, then move on to Elimination Chamber, where one of them is gonna win to face Rhea at WrestleMania. Not only will you #FeelTheGlowEST on Monday, but Liv feels it tonight! #Let’sGLOW! The champs head out, but will they clear their Road to WrestleMania of any other distractions?
Alexa Bliss speaks.
“When I was away, there was a lot of… change that happened in me. But when I look around, I see this place is still the same. The names and faces may be different, but the desperation and insecurity remains the same. You’ll see Toronto when I turn the Elimination Chamber into something of a playground of my own. I know the Chamber. I love the Chamber. I’ve won the Chamber. And for the other five women, it’s gonna be a Hell like they’ve never experienced before. Need I remind you, this is my division, and I am in charge.” Bliss smiles and says, “See you soon.” The film comes off the reel, but will things get twisted in Toronto?
Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez!
The Big Easy is all about having fun, and they’re fired up for Naomi’s entrance. But wait! Liv & Raquel don’t wait, they attack Bianca & Naomi while the lights are still down! They mug Naomi, but Bianca drags Liv out of the ring! Then Bianca storms in to fire off on Raquel! The fans fire up, but Liv returns to CHOP BLOCK Bianca! Raquel hauls Bianca up for a TEJANA BOMB!! Naomi runs up, fires more hands, but Liv brings Naomi around. Naomi fires hands on her, but Raquel throws her down! Liv runs up, OBLIVION!
Liv & Raquel stand tall, the refs rush out here, but clearly the singles match isn’t happening. Will we be getting something even meaner and nastier between these four on Monday?
The Rock arrives!
His truck pulls into the parking lot, but we’ll see him in the ring, after the break!
SmackDown returns and…
Aldis is chewing out Liv & Raquel for the attack. He doesn’t know what they get away with on Raw, but they can’t pull that crap here. Now get the hell out of his building. Liv & Raquel just laugh that off, but then Chelsea Green & Piper Niven walk in. Chelsea says have no fear, Chelsea & Piper are here to sub in for Bianca and Naomi at Elimination Chamber. Aldis sighs, and says they’re not missing the Chamber. What? But Chelsea had an outfit picked out! This is a travesty to not have the greatest Canadian export since maple syrup on a Canadian PLE! Does he know who she is? The first-ever, longest reigning, tallest, shortest, prettiest, richest, tannest, sparkliest, oldest, youngest Women’s US Champion! Piper asks what this is aboot, eh?
Aldis says this is them testing his patience. They need to pack their gear and whatever else they want, because they’ll be in action next week on SmackDown in Toronto. And oh, it’ll be a good one. Wait, they need more details! At least an e-calendar notification? Aldis is leaving Chelsea in the dark on what’s coming, will she absolutely hate it?
The Rock heads to the ring!
Wait, what is this New Orleans related remix? The Final Boss steps out on stage, he shows those goosebumps, then continues down the ramp, shaking hands with fans. The Rock hits his signature pose on the corner, but then takes the long way around to pick up a fan’s phone for them before going back into the ring. The fans all cheer for “ROCKY! ROCKY!” and he grabs himself a mic. He waits as the fans continue to chant his name, and then he says, “Ahh, you feel it, don’t you? You feel it. The Rock has got chills up and down his body because you know, on a Friday night, for the Final Boss to get inside his bird and fly all the way here, you know that I’m dropping some ish on you tonight!”
The fans fire up and The Rock smiles. Rock says, “Let’s get this show on the road.” The fans anticipate what’s coming but he says hold on, he’ll do it. “FINALLY! The Rock has come back…” “TO NEW ORLEANS~!” Rock smiles, and he adds, FINALLY, WrestleMania is coming back to New Orleans!! The fans are thunderous to hear that! WrestleMania 30, WrestleMania 34, and now WrestleMania 42!? Yes, next year, 2026, LIVE from the Superdome! One of the greatest cities on Earth in New Orleans, Louisiana! The pyro goes off to commemorate the occasion, and the logo is already on the tron! Rock smiles at that, then he smiles at the WrestleMania 41 Vegas logo.
The fans are losing their minds, as we now know April 11th and 12th, 2026, the Big Easy has the Grandest Stage of Them All. Rock says you damn right holy ish! Oh when the saints go marching in…! Oh how I’d love… Wait, no, this ain’t singalong with The Final Boss! Sit there, shut up, and let The Final Boss sing the song! The fans are torn, but Rock says he sings! Oh how I’d love, to be in that number~! Oh when the saints go marching in~! Okay, that’s good enough. You got him, that was a great duet. The Rock is singing with the largest collection of STD’d trailer trash he has ever seen! The fans can’t believe Rock would do that to them!
Rock says now, dropping this news wasn’t the only gift he was going to drop on us. The Final Boss came here to call somebody out. The Rock will call out a man who he respects, who he admires, and who we all admire. That man is our WWE Champion, the one and only, Cody Rhodes. The fans cheer as The American Nightmare makes his entrance! They sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” and we get Cody’s pyro before he goes to the ring. Cody gets his second “WHOA~ OH~!” and round of pyro, then he steps inside to join The Rock. The fans cheer Cody on, so he holds up the title and the fans cheer even more.
Cody grabs a mic, but Rock says, “That feels good, doesn’t it? I mean, that’s gotta feel amazing, right? They love you, man.” Cody tells NOLA, “I love you, too.” Rock says this is crazy. Pretty much no one knows this, but since after WrestleMania last year, they’ve actually become good friends. No, it’s true, they have. Last time they were together was the Raw Netflix debut. Rock gave Cody his flowers, told Cody he has carried the company like the incredible champion that he is, so thank you, Cody. Rock meant it, and that night, they went to the back, drank tequila for two hours and had a great ol’ time.
They chopped it up, had a blast, but Rock wants to call Cody out here for something important. Here’s the thing… The fans get a bit rowdy as they wait, and Rock says Cody is a great champion. A great WWE Champion. Cody knows that. Again, they’ve become good friends, so over the months, they’ve texted. Even their moms became good friends! Look! Mama Johnson & Mama Rhodes together after WrestleMania 40! It is a pleasure becoming Cody’s friend. But Rock wanted this face to face to tell him a few things. One: Cody has been a great champion, but he needs to understand. Yes, The Rock, The Final Boss, is on the Board of TKO. And TKO owns WWE.
The Rock is the Director of the Board of TKO. Don’t boo that! The Rock’s good friend, Ari Emanuel, who owns everything Endeavor, The Rock joked with Ari, “Can you believe that you own The WWE?” Ari says he doesn’t own the WWE, The Rock does. Rock said no, no, he doesn’t know if he owns the WWE. But The Rock knows he is the most powerful… Cody, you are a great champion. But Rock wants Cody to be something more. Rock wants Cody to be something more than just our champion. Rock wants Cody to be his champion. The fans don’t like where that’s going.
Cody says he did not expect them to become friends, nor their moms to become friends, nor the tequila. Cody didn’t have that on his bingo card. But becoming The Rock’s champion? The Rock of all people should know, Cody is the people’s champion. The fans cheer Cody more, and Rock says yes! Cody is their champion! Of course! The Rock is also The People’s Champion, he loves that about Cody. This is their universe, they were both born into this business. But Rock means something even bigger than just this. Rock knows Cody’s goal is to bring as much joy and happiness to everyone around the world, as many as possible.
The fans cheer, and Rock says that’s Cody. Cody is that guy, and everyone knows it. Cody is on social media, Instagram, millions of followers. Millions, and millions! The Rock has half a BILLION. That’s not a flex. But The Rock is the most followed American man in the world, that’s what he wants for Cody. Rock wants Cody to be even higher. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, he will open doors to possibilities Cody never even imagined. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, every dream he has ever had can come true. Every dream of Brandi’s, of their daughter’s. Think about how Rock brought them to the premiere of Moana 2, in Hawaii.
Thank you, by the way, for making that cross a BILLION dollars, fans, Rock loves you. Rock has met the Rhodes family, they’re amazing. But imagine it: Cody’s daughter’s children, their dreams, long after Rock and Cody are gone, all those dreams can come true. Rock just needs Cody to be his champion. The fans say don’t do it! Rock tells Cody to just think about it, though. Rock is a very lucky man, he has it all. Cody also has it all. They’re very fortunate. They’re Mama’s Boys, they’re Girl Dads, they’re lucky men. Fans say don’t do it, Rock tells them to shut up or he’ll slap the syphilis off their face! Rock is trying to have a moment here, shut your mouths!
The one thing that Rock has never had, that he wants more than anything, is a brother. And that is what Cody can be. Last year, WrestleMania, Rock’s goal was to face his cousin, Roman Reigns, for the title. Cody knows, the fans know. Rock talked with his friend, HHH. He talked with Nick Khan, who is his friend. They are also Cody’s friends. Rock knew it wasn’t in the plans, but they talked about moving Cody aside to make what was best for business: Rock VS Roman, WrestleMania 40! What’d Cody do? Cody pitched a b*tch fit! Cody told The Rock he ain’t doing it, and he stood up to The Rock. And y’know what else? Cody SLAPPED Rock!
No one does that and gets away with it. But that is why Cody is special. That is why Cody should be Rock’s Champion. And that is why Rock will take Cody from where he is to a level so far above. Rock will make sure every dream, every desire, for generations to come, it all comes true. Rock’s dad, Cody’s dad, Soul Man & American Dream, they are looking down right now. They were friends, Cody and Rock are friends, Cody should be Rock’s Champion. He doesn’t need to answer Rock tonight. He can think about it, talk with his wife and daughter, as will The Rock. Then Cody can think about it. Meet Rock in Toronto on March 1st to give him the answer.
Fans still say don’t do it, but Rock says it is okay. Before he leaves, this has been an amazing night, this is a hot crowd, thank you all very much. But before he leaves, Rock wants us to know this: The one thing Rock wants more than anything in this world… is that. Wait, the title? Cody’s title? The fans’ title? This is all this is about? No no no no! Brother… Rock doesn’t want the title. He wants Cody’s soul. The fans duel, “NO! NO! NO!” “SELL YOUR SOUL!” Rock pats Cody on the cheek and says see you in Toronto. The Rock leaves, giving Cody a lot to think about. Rock does give one last glance back at Cody, then smirks.
What will The American Nightmare choose: His integrity? Or his aspirations?
WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly!
Did Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano got these titles thanks to Kit Wilson & Elton Prince? #YESBOY! Did they survive a couple title defenses thanks to Kit & Elton? #YESBOY! But when Pretty Deadly needed DIY, was DIY there for them? #NOBOY! So now, Kit & Elton are looking to give Ciampa & Gargano their comeuppance! Will we finally get another #SidePlateCheck? Or will Ciampa & Gargano remember for themselves, that if you wanna be champions, you gotta do it yourself?
But as DIY make their entrance, they have mics, and Johnny Wrestling tells NOLA, “Give it up one time for your TWO-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions…! The BTTITW (Best Tag Team In The World), D I Y~!” The fans boo instead. Ciampa says there is no denying that tonight has been electrifying. Gargano says this is a hot crowd. But please, if we could be somber for a second. Guys, this is serious. Two weeks ago, Pretty Deadly embarrassed DIY, and now reluctantly, DIY will return that favor by crushing their hopes and dreams of ever becoming WWE Tag Team Champions. So please, let us all rise to our feet… Yes, you in the LSU jersey, stand up.
Ciampa thanks Wade Barrett, and asks for everyone to remove their hands and bow their heads for a moment of silence for Pretty Deadly, beginning… now. The fans boo instead! And then Pretty Deadly make their entrance! The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really needed who in this broken relationship!
But then DIY jumps Pretty Deadly! The ref reprimands, DIY whip but Pretty Deadly reverses! DOUBLE DORPKICKS! Then DOUBLE LARIATS send DIY up and out! The disco ball hasn’t even stopped spinning! The fans cheer while DIY throw a fit! They regroup, cool down, and go back to the ring. Gargano distracts Elton, Ciampa CLOBBERS him, and the bell rings. But Elton fires hands on Ciampa! Elton whips, Ciampa reverses and he pulls hair! The ref reprimands, Ciampa throws Elton to the apron and KNEES him down! Tag to Gargano and he aims, SUPERKICK! Elton goes down in a heap, DIY cheers themselves on, and SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns, Gargano tags in, and DIY hits the BACK SUPLEX BOMBO COMBO! Cover, TWO! Elton stays in this but Gargano tags Ciampa back in. Gargano sends Ciampa in, but Elton ELBOWS him away! Gargano runs in, but Elton puts him on the apron! Gargano goes after Kit, but Kit blocks the kick! Kit BOOTS Gargano down, but then Ciampa BOOTS Kit! Elton dodges Ciampa to come back, DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! Elton and Ciampa are down, sputtering and writhing, and the fans rally up. Elton crawls, Kit rises, hot tags to Kit and Gargano! Kit rallies on DIY with big forearms! Kit whips, Gargano reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS!
Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa in a corner, then LARIATS! Kit runs to LARIAT Gargano! Kit pushes Gargano down, kicks him and hits a TWIST- NO, Gargano slips through to ROCK Kit! Kit yoyos, DOUBLE LARIATS! The fans fire up, Kit tags Elton! They get Gargano up, but Gargano BOOTS Elton! Gargano ELBOWS Kit away, then runs up on Elton! Elton dodges, then gives Kit the boost, DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Gargano survives but Ciampa is in! Elton fireman’s carries Ciampa, but Ciampa slips free! Ciampa whips, Elton reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa! Elton shows off his strength with the GOTCH LIFT PLEX!
Tag to Kit, but IN COME THE PROFITS! Ford SHOVES Kit down, Dawkins mugs him!!
Winners: Pretty Deadly, by disqualification; DIY retain the titles
Not again! Just like they did Motor City Machine Guns, The Profits make sure no one else takes these titles off DIY! URENAGE from Ford to Elton! Dawkins keeps hammering away on Kit, and then Ford POSTS Elton! Dawkins fireman’s carries Kit, to POST him, too! Looking like the All Mighty with that one! Gargano fires forearms in return, but ends up int he POUNCE GERMAN SUPLEX! Then Ciampa runs up into a FLAPJACK! Ford goes up top, then flies in FROM THE HEAVENS!! Direct hit on Ciampa! But wait! MCMG rushes out here, wanting their payback! The Profits brawl with MCMG, but Ford TOSSES Shelley to the apron!
Ford runs up, Shelley goes to kick, but Ford blocks it! Ford LARIATS Shelley down, Dawkins hits Sabin with THE BIG ENDING! The fans are torn as Dawkins whips Sabin, Profits get him for the REVELATION!! And if there’s been any revelation, it is that Ford & Dawkins don’t just want the smoke, they want to burn down the tag division to get it! Will nothing stop them once they’re back in action?
Kevin Owens speaks.
“You got what you wanted, huh? You got your match. You couldn’t, uh… You couldn’t just take the punishment that you deserved, that I’d already given you, and let it go. No, you… You wanted me and you to go again. You wanted to fight me, you want to hurt me, you want to end my career, which would hurt my family, by the way. Which is truly despicable. But what about your family, Sami? Huh? Have you thought of them? What about your family, huh?” Kevin reveals he is right outside the Zayn home! Kevin peers inside to watch Sami, his wife, and his son!
Kevin asks Sami via the video if Sami knows what he’s about to put them through, when they have to watch Kevin end Sami’s career. And what happens then, eh? When Sami can’t provide for them, and everything they have, like this nice house, the shelter, the security, the peace they have, when it’s all gone? And why? What for? Because Sami’s too proud? Because Sami’s selfish? Sami IS selfish. Because Sami is making Kevin do this to Sami’s family. Kevin will never forgive Sami for that. He’ll see Sami in Toronto. “But remember… You asked for this. It’s all your fault.” As if Kevin’s delusions aren’t already grand, will he continue to blame everyone else but himself?
Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga!
Elimination Chamber is on the horizon, and the Road to WrestleMania makes for strange bedfellows. Priest, Braun and Jacob were fighting each other just last week, but Solo’s return really threw things for a loop. Can Priest & Braun give Solo and the Samoan Werewolf their punishment? Or will everything (not) be fine in Solo’s Bloodline?
SmackDown returns as #OneBigSOB makes his entrance. As Solo, Jacob & Tama head to gorilla, we hear from Solo. “Tonight, we handle business. And it starts with Braun Strowman & Damian-” Jacob interrupts with, “Man, c’mon, DP! C’mon, Braun! I thought we did this! So tonight, we about to even up the score. If you ain’t know, I’m all gas, no brakes with it! See, since we touched the scene, we been dropping bodies like bread crumbs! Yadada mean!? FA-TUUU~! Hit my music!” The rogues enter to Jacob’s theme, is this alone proof he’s the new alpha? Or will the match be the last nail in that coffin?
The teams sort out, but Jacob stares down both Priest and Braun. NOLA seems to acknowledge Jacob, but Solo convinces him to stand down. Solo starts against Priest, the bell rings, and the two tie up. They go around, Priest powers Solo back, but Solo powers Priest back. They break, stare down, and Solo talks some trash. Solo shoves Priest, Priest shoves back. They circle again, tie up, and Priest puts Solo in a corner. The ref counts, Priest lets off at 4, but Solo stomps Priest’s foot! Solo throws hands, then a HEADBUTT! Priest staggers, but then he ROCKS Solo! And ROCKS him! And HEADBUTTS! That was a mistake!
Solo shakes his head to HEADBUTT Priest! Priest goes to a corner, Solo throws haymakers and body shots on repeat! The ref counts, Solo lets off and says see? Solo and Jacob as one! But Priest THROWS Solo to the corner to fire off haymakers of his own! Priest ROCKS Solo, the fans fire up, and Priest whips., Solo reverses to UPPERCUT! Solo talks smack but Priest ROCKS him again! Tag to Braun and the fans fire up! Braun stares Jacob down, tells him to shove it, then runs up to SPLASH Solo! Braun stares Jacob down again, goes back for Solo, and hits another LARIAT! Braun scoops, Solo slips free, but Braun runs up!
Solo ELBOWS Braun away, tags to Jacob, and Jacob runs in, but Braun dodges! Braun CROSSBODIES! Jacob is right up, but Braun BOOTS him right back down! Solo runs in but Braun TOSSES him! Priest hurries after Solo, Braun CLOBBERS Jacob! LEAPING LARIAT for Solo! Braun then gets on the track, STROWMAN EXPRESS SMACKS a chair out of Tama’s hand! The Good Bad Guy thought he was being sneaky! But then Jacob CROSSBODIES Braun into the timekeeper’s aera! The fans go wild as Jacob rises up, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Jacob hauls Braun up, drags him around the way, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him over to SMACK off the desk! Braun staggers, but he ROCKS Jacob in return! And THROWS Jacob into steel steps! Braun drags Jacob up, puts him in the ring, but Jacob SUPERKICKS Braun! Braun falls into the corner, Jacob HIP ATTACKS! Jacob’s all geeked up, then he tags in Solo. Solo soaks up some heat while Jacob HIP ATTACKS Braun again! Solo puts Braun on ropes to CHOKE him! The ref counts, Solo stops at 4, but Jacob gets a HEADBUTT in! Braun flounders, Solo taunts him and eggs him on, but Braun CHOPS him!
Solo HEADBUTTS Braun right down! Solo rains down fists, then lets off so he can put Braun on the ropes. Solo CHOKES Braun again, stops as the ref counts 4, and Jacob gets another cheap shot in! Solo tags Jacob in, then he HEADBUTTS Braun again and again! Jacob runs to BODY CHECK Braun! Jacob fires up, Braun flounders to ropes, but Jacob rains down fists! Tag to Solo, he soaks up heat from NOLA, then he stomps away on Braun! The ref counts, Solo lets off, then he keeps Braun from Priest by anchoring a leg. Tag to Jacob and Jacob climbs up, FROG SPLASH! Jacob roars while Braun writhes!
Jacob looms over Braun but he glares at Priest. Priest gets heated, but Jacob fires hands on Braun as SmackDown returns to single picture. Braun stands, but Jacob HEADBUTTS him again! Jacob runs for another BODY CHECK! And then a SENTON! Cover, TWO! Braun stays in this and he goes to a corner. Jacob snarls, tags Solo in, and the fans boo. Solo runs corner to corner to HIP ATTACK Braun! Solo grins as he copies Jacob’s geeking out. Tag back to Jacob and fans cheer! Jacob aims, runs, and HIP ATTACKS! Jacob keeps going, but Braun BOOTS from below!! The fans fire up while both men stagger to their feet.
Braun SPINEBUSTERS Jacob! Both monsters are down, the fans rally up, and they crawl, hot tags to Solo and Priest! Priest fires hands on Solo, then whips. Solo reverses but Priest SHOUDLER TACKLES Solo! Priest runs to BACK ELBOW! Jacob is back, but Priest dodges to WHEEL KICK! Priest then waits on Solo, but Solo catches Priest! Priest elbows free, but Solo SUPERKICKS! But Priest JUMPING ROUNDHOUSES! Solo comes back, Priest ROCKS him first! Solo swings, but into the FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Solo survives but Priest puts him in a corner. Priest whips corner to corner, then runs, only for Solo to put him on th eapron!
Solo takes as swing, Priest dodges and ROUNDHOUSES! Priest then knuckle locks with Solo, goes up top, and he tightrope walks for some OLD SCHOOL! The fans fire up and Priest powers up the arm! Priest runs, but Solo ducks the Comebacker! Priest fights the fireman’s carry to BELL CLAP, ROUNDHOUSE, and then he reels Solo in! But Tama is on the apron! Priest DECKS Tama, but Jacob HOTSHOTS Priest! Solo hits the URENAGE! Cover, TWO!! Priest survives and Solo is stunned! Solo snarls, looks to his taped-up thumb, then he drags Priest up. The fans boo but Solo taunts the fans now. SAMOAN- NO! Priest grabs Solo!
But Jacob runs in! Priest ROCKS Jacob, ELBOWS Solo, then he dodges, so Jacob’s SUPERKICK hits Solo! An accident just like last week’s shot to Tama, but Jacob doesn’t seem as upset by it. Priest TOSSES Jacob, then CLOBBERS Solo! STROWMAN EXPRESS CLOBBERS Jacob & Tama!! Priest brings down the straps, the fans are thunderous, and Priest grabs Solo by the neck! SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, Priest & Braun win!
Winners: Damian Priest & Braun Strowman, by pinfall
Just as Solo thought it’d be like before, he and Jacob were not on the same page! Priest is rolling towards Elimination Chamber, will this be just what he needs to go back to WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
A great SmackDown here, but with some interesting moves after the sudden change in plans with The Rock showing up. Naomi and Bianca had a good promo to hype up what was meant to be a full match of Naomi VS Liv, but word had already come out before the show that things were being cut for time. But at the very least, they did the right thing of making it a brawl that adds heat to the tag title match on Monday. Also, hilarious how Chelsea & Piper thought the beatdown on Bianca & Naomi was so bad that they would need to be pulled from the Chamber. I also can’t wait to see what happens on Toronto SmackDown.
As for The Rock, I do appreciate he used his authority to kayfabe change more things, all so he could have his promo with Cody. I also appreciate Rock blending his different roles and even different sides, both Heel and Face, to A) bring the news of WM42 being in NOLA, and B) recreate the Corporate Champion/People’s Champion story from the Attitude Era. That was some wild stuff he was saying to Cody. I’m sure quite a few people will try and talk with Cody next week in the go-home. Heels will say do it because they’d love to have what Rock can give, Faces will say not because Cody’s better than that. But naturally, Cody is not going to become The Rock’s Champion, causing Rock to turn on him and really up things going into WrestleMania 41 and perhaps even beyond.
Good stuff in the Elimination Chamber related stories. Jimmy VS McIntyre was great stuff to open, and how fitting that McIntyre loses to Jimmy after talking all that trash about Jimmy and Jey being the same. Jey got McIntyre with something quick, Jimmy got McIntyre with something quick, McIntyre’s ego is obviously his weakness. And at the same time, McIntyre of course destroys Jimmy after because that’s his other personality trait. Priest had good promos with Cody and Braun, and we got great stuff from Solo’s Bloodline. Naturally, we got a miscommunication spot to help finish, we’re really close to Solo VS Jacob, I can feel it. Priest & Braun get the win, mostly because Priest isn’t winning in the Chamber when you’ve got Punk and Cena in there.
Very good stuff with Tiffy Time, from the promos leading into the match to Charlotte being ringside just to watch. Nia & Candice of course get the better of Tiff & Trish, because Tiff & Trish are definitely winning the tag match in Toronto. Charlotte just seems to enjoy trolling Tiff with her presence, so Charlotte probably shows up in Toronto to then confront Tiff after the match. I expect the seven weeks after Elimination Chamber to really heat up, as will Charlotte’s involvement, where she’ll get more active verbally and physically. Also, hell, Rock should go full Corporation and have Charlotte be his Corporate Women’s Champion because of how established she is.
Hilarious stuff from Truth tonight, as always. Truth and Melo having their “who’s on first” again was good stuff, and of course Miz gets in on this story, too. Truth & Knight VS “Melo Don’t Miz” was really fun, but yeah, should’ve figured Nakamura would get involved, too. Melo & Miz making it work could also be really fun, and while Knight VS Nakamura is a rehash, I really hope they find a way to up things. It feels like we’re getting the same with the tag titles as Profits “ruined” that great tag match from DIY and Pretty Deadly, then brawled with MCMG to still come out on top. Last year had a ladder tag title match, so why not do one for these titles this year?
Speaking of escalating, Kevin filming a promo outside Sami’s house was some really well done stuff, as expected of someone as good as Kevin and in such a story as him and Sami. Their match should main event, it needs time to breathe, as it could be just as, if not more violent, than the Chamber matches. What a powerful closing moment we could have if it’s a bloody Kevin and Sami, and one of them is standing over the other, triumphant yet mournful because it was their best friend in the world that they just brutalized.
My Score: 8.9/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
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TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
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Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA LIVE! iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 2.20.2025
So the first live episode got fairly positive praise from everyone; will this continue the trend?
Filming at Full Sail seems to have set the stage nicely this week! Going into a Live episode we got Moose and The Hardy Boyz on NXT, as well as Jordynne Grace’s involvement with Steph and Giulia giving a little shine to TNA happenings since she’s newly WWE.
This episode should be interesting, we finally see Lei Ying Lee (fka Xia Li) back in action, Rascalz take on Tyson and Tyriek, Tessa should be seeing some action as well…so generally interesting happenings for the second Live iMPACT! of 2025. Let’s see how this one goes down!
No matter where @ManceWarner and @stephdelander go, @TheSamiCallihan WILL FIND THEM!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/mXz9U7m9PL
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Ratings:
- Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin: Rascalz win via Meteora/Swanton Combo – ***
- Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary: Lei wins via Thunderstruck – **
- NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC: Dango wins via The System help – ** 3/4
- Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore: Masha wins via Requiem – N/A
- Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons: Elijah wins via Tombstone Piledriver – *** 1/4
Results:
Oh yeah, and another Hendry concert is…cut off by a commercial, LOLTNA. First Hendry is cut off by AXSTV’s new Anime Hour bumper, and now Primo and Epico are showing up in TNA. I definitely didn’t have this on my BINGO card. The crowd starts chanting “Where’s Carlito”, which they do acknowledge and play off of well. Oh they’re using their shoot names of Orlando and Eddie now…but before they attack the lights go out and we get another guitar strum! ELIAH/ELIAS/EZEKIEL/EBENERZER/EMERY/EL VAGABUNDO – shows up to back up Hendry. Okay I can apologize away the redundant concert since it played into an Elijah debut. The crowd is immediately popping and chanting “This is Awesome” 10 minutes into the show.
Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin
Treehouse bros take it to the bigger men quickly, a few fast dives, a little MCMG style tandem strikes, Tyson fires and tries to take them out but they Low Bridge him. Tyriek comes in and they try similar things but Tyriek manhandles them both and throws them out of the ring, Trey is the first one back up and Tyriek and Tyson take his damn head off with his Corkscrew Running Euro Upper. Trey finally manages to flip out of the manhandle, tags in Wentz and Wentz goes for the hot and spicy cleaning house spot. Corner to Corner Knee Lifts for both big men, a Rolling Snapmare, into a Superkick for Tyson and Standing Shoot Star on Tyriek but only for two because Wes feints like he’s going to interfere.
Tyson and Tyriek pull off a tandem Assisted Backdrop Driver, but Wentz breaks it up, Tyson gets knocked out, Wentz hits the Tornillo, Wes tries to interfere again after Trey gets perched on the corner buckle but Ace runs around and trips Wes at the last second causing him to faceplant on the apron, Trey hits the Meteora, Wentz hits a Swanton from the other side of the ring and Trey gets the pinfall victory.
It was fast paced, all gas no brakes, but it didn’t overstay its welcome, so it was pretty fun all things considered.
After the match Wes grabs a mic, complains a little but challenges them to a 6 man match as Sacrifice. So we’re THAT’S where we’re getting the expected 3v3.
Fir$t Cla$$ comes out with an entourage of hot chicks and probably influencers or something. The “First Class Penthouse” , Gabby AF, Mafiosa Valentina, and Carolina are apparently known in their own way. Gabby I know was the awful one who did something for Impact a last year and sucked, but she’s part of the Busted Open Network I believe so that’s why she’s around. Two of them look like Noelle Foley and Frank the Clown…oh they actually are. Look at that. I do love KC Navarro as the Hype Man, they have this whole set up of AJ being mad that they haven’t gotten more Tag Title shots, so TNA placated him with his own Piper’s Pit and he’s *pregnant pause* totally happy with that. He says he loved Piper and hated Hogan before it was cool.
This is actually quality content and AJ is cutting a nice promo in this segment. They introduce their first guest, the greatest performer in TNA history, many whole say he’s Phenomenal with a whole lot of style….it’s A-J-Francis.
.@AJFrancis410 is GOING OFF!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/kGehtp9iTE
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary
Things were slow until Rosemary took her into a corner quickly, hit the Upside Down, and we get a lot of Lei trying to avoid Rosemary’s offense. Rosemary goes for a Spear in the corner and Lei forward rolls, starts connecting with a bunch of right hands, backs Rosemary into the corner, goes for 10 Count Punches, pulls her out, Airplane Spin TKO for only a two count. Rosemary tries As Above So Below, Lei shrugs it off, Rosemary tries to go after Lei anyway and eats Thunderstruck! Lei Ying Lee wins!
After the match Rosemary catches Lei on the ramp and hits the Green mist in the eyes. Match was far too short and so many of Lei’s set up moves look better than her finish. We’ve seen Kofi Kingston do it for years so it’s not bad, just the current Knockouts Division are awful and don’t take the move well.
Eric Young and the jabronis come out, EY cuts a very basic power crazed psycho kind of promo, gets the “What” chants from the crowds. EY is trying to recruit Maclin even though Maclin made his line in the sand last week. EY tries to spin it as maybe he took out Josh FOR Maclin instead of in spite of his trust. This really doesn’t seem interesting at all, but that’s probably because I hate the two Jabronis EY is with.
NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC
I really don’t have any interest in Slater. He’s got no personality beyond “flippy guy with a British accent”.
Dango immediately powders, grabs a chair and goes to swing on him but misses. So Leon is making JDC look dumb by dodging the post chop, using the chair to shield himself from a punch by JDC, and then clapping Dango’s fingers between the chair. So typical System match, look inept for the first few minutes, then take advantage of something to take over. Oh look, Leon takes too long setting up the table, Dango gets in a few pot shots, tries to whip him into the table but Leon leaps over it, and then leaps back over to clobber Dango. Dango is still trying to recover so Leon hits his over the corner post con hilo, and the crowd appreciates it but I’m not interested. Leon panders to the crowd after the big spot and then eats an X-Plex into the chair from Dango.
JDC throws Leon back in, goes for a pinfall that’s only a two and we cut to a commercial. Coming out of the commercial JDC is in control with a Kendo Stick until he isn’t, Leon counters and takes the keno stick, brutalizes Dango a few times then comes off the ropes with the kendo shot for 2. Leon goes for another table, and again, at least the crowd is receptive to this match. Leon sets it up, looks for something off the apron but Dango stops him first until he eats a dropkick to fall onto the table, Leon hits the Swanton 450 through the table on the outside. Does it look cool? Sure. Do I care about dumbass moves? Nope.
Oh thankfully the rest of The System comes out to stop the pinfall, Shield Bomb Leon through the first table, and roll him back in for Dango to win.
The Hardy Boyz come out to try and make the save, but the numbers are against them, so Oba Femi’s music hits! Oba cleans house but doesn’t get his hands on Moose, so they’re at least building the eventual clash between Moose and Oba.
The crowd starts a “Tessa, we comin for you” chant before she even starts talking. Tessa is actually playing off the crowd well, Santino’s music hits and Tessa thinks he’ll help her out with the crowd and Santino calls bullshit basically. Santino says if Tessa doesn’t wrestle next week, she’s fired and Masha’s music hits. Masha decides to step in for Tessa’s enhancement talent match.
Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore
Jobber tries to attack Masha early but Masha stops her, rocks her and Requiem ends the match.
Masha stares down Tessa, and then Cora Jade attacks from behind and hits Jaded.
Ryan Nemeth comes out to his Abyss music remix. What will Mokuba say today? “MYYYY BIIIGG BBRROOOOTTHHHEEEEER” he repeats at least 4 times and it’s hilariously cringe. He announces that Nic will return at Sacrifice, he literally just came out to give a PSA.
Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons
Hendry starts with Eddie, after a brief tie up it seems like Hendry reads the room and points at Elijah and the crowd wants him in. So Joe tags in Elijah, a little back and forth, Shoulder Tackle from Elijah, Rope Walk with Elijah lays out Eddie and a tag to Joe allows for a quick tandem knockdown, but Eddie powders as the Walking and Talking Duo hold the ring going into the final commercial break.
We come back and Hendry is bouncing Orlando off the ropes as he return a strike, but Orlando is obviously losing, eats a Euro Upper, and then gets walked around in the Stalling Suplex for posterity. Eddie tries a sneak attack but gets caught and Sack of Shit, into Kip Up, turn and then Orlando with the ambush! A few quick short cuts and an Irish Whip/Dropkick combo gives the Colons a near fall. Hendry does get locomotion variation cradles, but eats a Dropkick to stop the attempt at momentum. Orlando stays on Joe, but Joe finally starts to fire up as the crowd starts to get behind him. Euro Uppers make some space, but a Snapmare says no.
Eddie gets tagged in and a quick Leg Sweep into a Front Chancery keeps Eddie in control. As Joe tries to get back up, Eddie turns it into a Guillotine, but finally the Suplex counter connects for Hendry! Simultaneous tags! Elijah bulls over Orlando, catches a Leap Frogging Orlando with the Manhattan Drop as Orlando retreats to a corner, Stinger Splash into Spinebuster for two. Elijah tries to keep up the attacks but Orlando finds a few ways to make space, launches himself from the middle rope and eats the Jumping Knee! Eddie breaks up the pinfall, Hendry takes Eddie out and Elijah hits the Tombstone Piledriver for the win!
Overall Score: 6/10
Well there were more live hiccups than the first episode, and this felt both more epic and less epic at the same time. Elijah and the Colons debuting was a nice way to kick things off, Oba Femi showing up for the save was fantastic. There were a few decent matches, but also a lot of really short and rushed matches. Tessa played off the crowd well, but Masha really is useless on the mic. Lei Ying Lee needs to framed stronger, her matches have done nothing to show off her ability. It just proves that the Knockouts don’t know how to sell a kick to the head because they all take it in the shoulder and fall in corny ways.
Viva La Sam could be something fun if the next 3 weeks are just hand cam footage of him being like “I’m Sami Callihan and I’m gonna kick Mance Warner’s ass”, Elegance Clique getting the rematch with a stipulation is nice to see and while I like Fir$t Cla$$, that segment went a little long for a cornball swerve payoff. It’s one thing to placate the Influencer squad especially when we’ve seen Logan Paul and Ishowspeed do so well in WWE…but these are like Z Tier Influencers that no one cares about. These kind of dorks stream on Kick because they aren’t relevant enough for Twitch, not because they chose Kick over it.
So yeah, the low lights were pretty low, and the highs were a little fleeting, but at least they were pretty fun. Not a bad show, just clunky with noticeable issues and Masha shouldn’t be allowed to speak English anymore. She’s such a charisma vacuum when she’s not rambling in Russian.
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
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