Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (5/15/23)
Adrenaline! In Raw’s soul!
The American Nightmare responds to The Beast’s challenge!
Last week on Raw, Brock Lesnar screwed Cody Rhodes out of the World Heavyweight Championship! Lesnar wants to fight, will Cody accept?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Shinsuke Nakamura VS The Miz; Nakamura wins.
- WWE Intercontinental Championship #1 Contender’s Battle Royal: Mustafa Ali wins and will challenge Gunther for the title at Night of Champions.
- Xavier Woods VS Dominik Mysterio w/ Rhea Ripley; Dom wins.
- Indus Sher w/ Jinder Mahal VS ???; Indus Sher wins.
- WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez VS Chelsea Green & Sonya Deville; postponed because of injury.
- Raquel Rodriguez VS Chelsea Green w/ Sonya Deville; Raquel wins.
- Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn VS Finn Balor & Damian Priest; Finn & Priest win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn are here!
Greensboro, North Carolina fires up for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions as they head to the ring. The Bloodline isn’t letting go of the past, and now Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa are coming for the tag titles! Sami gets the mic to say, “Oh, Greensboro! Oh my gosh. Not gonna lie, guys, I’m excited. I am on one tonight, because we found out, just like each and everyone one of you, we found out on Friday… Trust me, we were as surprised as anyone, that at Night of Champions, we will be defending our Undisputed Tag Team Championships against a team of Solo Sikoa & Roman Reigns.”
Fans boo, but Sami says yeah, he gets it. On paper, that’s as big of a threat to these titles as there is. But Sami & Kevin don’t see it as that. It is a GIFT! It is a gift because they are getting something they never thought they’d get: a chance at revenge on Roman Reigns! But to be honest for a second, Kevin Owens should’ve beat Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship. Sami knows that at Elimination Chamber, he should’ve beaten Roman for that championship! Fans agree there. But Roman has cheated his way through an entire title reign, unchecked for far too long, and now THEY are going to check Roman!
Sami says this is the problem with Roman. He’s gone unchecked, and he doesn’t know where to stop. They thought the only chance was to make the Bloodline crumble. But these days, Roman is doing that all by himself. Roman is pushing too far and too hard, and he’s pushing the Usos too hard! Now he’s pushing this championship thing too hard. It is never enough for Roman. It is not enough to have the WWE Championship, it is not enough to have the Universal Championship for 1000 days! Now Roman wants the Undisputed Tag Team Championships, too?! “Well, Roman, you psycho, you manipulator, you want these championships? YOU CAN’T HAVE THEM!!”
Fans cheer, but then here comes the Judgment Day! Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio & Rhea Ripley all make their way out to the ring, mics in hand. But Kevin has them stop right there! Kevin is glad someone came out here, because he’s so sick talking about the Bloodline, he doesn’t care about the Bloodline. Kevin doesn’t care what Judgment Day is out here to say, but it’s probably not to hang out later. If they wanna fight, then let’s fight! Let’s go right now! Sami has Kevin hold on, and says yes, this might be his fault starting at a 10. But Kevin’s getting to an 11. They have problems with the Bloodline, not with Judgment Day.
Why are they out here? Maybe it’s not to fight! Let’s hear them out first. Sami tells the gentlemen, and Dom, that the floor is theirs. Damian says Kevin is right, he’d love to fight! But then Finn has everyone tranquilo! They do just wanna talk. Finn says they’re wishing Sami & Kevin the best of luck against Roman & Solo. But it’s just a bit confusing. Last week, Kevin & Sami said they were done, but they’re right back where they started. Damian says they’re right back to getting beat up by Roman! Yeah, maybe, huh? But if by some miracle, Sami & Kevin do win, then when they get back, there will be a whole line of stars waiting for them.
“And guess what? The line starts here.” Rhea says in case no one remembers, the Judgment Day runs Monday Night Raw! Kevin tells Sami they heard the Judgment Day out. Sami says those were all great points. Fans cheer for “MAMI! MAMI!” and Rhea smiles. Sami says it was all well said. But for him personally, what does Dom have to say? The people just love to hear Dom talk. Fans boo because they don’t! Dom says if they want his opinion, but then gets drowned out by boos. Kevin face palms and says he can’t hear anything! It is pointless! Can he just punch someone in the face? Yeah, sure!
But then Rhea defends Dom! Kevin can’t punch her. But Priest DECKS Sami! And Rhea DECKS Kevin! The Judgment Day stomps away on Kevin, but Sami gets a chair! Sami runs the Judgment Day off! The Prizefighter wants to fight, Judgment Day wants to fight, will we see a preview of post Night of Champions tonight?
Shinsuke Nakamura VS The Miz!
The King of Strong Style may not be going to Night of Champions for the World Heavyweight Championship, but right now, he wants to settle things with the Hollywood A-Lister! Will Miz be too soft for Strong Style? Or will Nakamura regret the offer to form #Mizuke?
Raw returns and The Miz makes his entrance. The bell rings and fans taunt Miz with “TINY BALLS!” Miz keeps trying to reason with Nakamura that they could be a super team, and he offers a handshake. Nakamura thinks about it, but he kicks the hand away. Miz frowns but Nakamura says, “C’MON!” Miz runs in but into a knee! Nakamura fires forearms and knees, whips Miz to ropes, and LEG LARIATS Miz down! Nakamura then drops a knee! And then throws knees into Miz’s side and back! Miz crawls, Nakamura stomps him to a corner, then gives him some GOOD VIBRATIONS~! The fans cheer but the ref counts.
Nakamura lets off, goes corner to corner, but Miz BOOTS him! Miz BOOTS again, then puts Nakamura int he ropes. Miz CHOKES Nakamura, the ref counts, and Miz lets off to run and STRADDLE ATTACK! Nakamura falls back and fans boo but Miz scowls. Miz stalks Nakamura, brings Nakamura up, and whips. Nakamura reverses and sends Miz tumbling out! Nakamura then runs to WRECK Miz with a sliding dropkick! Nakamura puts Miz in the ring, on the apron, and then KNEE LIFTS Miz! Then goes up to GUILLOTINE KNEE! Miz flops down and Nakamura brings him up again. Nakamura puts Miz back in the ring and fans rally up.
Nakamura sees Miz go to the apron, Nakamura hurries over but Miz knees him low! Miz brings Nakamura out, DRAPING NECKBREAKER! Nakamura flops to the floor and Miz scowls again. Miz sits Nakamura up, for a BASEMENT BOOT! Fans boo but Miz is in control as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and both men rise up. Fans rally behind Nakamura, and he counters Miz to fire off a strike fest! AX KICK! Nakamura roars, fans fire up, and Nakamura KICKS Miz in the chest! And again! And again, but Miz blocks! But Nakamura ENZIGURIS! Miz staggers to a corner, Nakamura storms up and whips him corner to corner. Miz reverses, runs in, but Nakamura dodges to ENZIGURI again! Nakamura puts Miz on the top rope, then runs for the TOP SHELF KNEE! Cover, TWO! Nakamura keeps cool as Miz stays in this. But Miz throat chops! And full nelson! Nakamura breaks free but Miz O’Conner Rolls! TWO, and into an ARMBAR!!
Miz clasps hands, hurries, but Nakamura beats the fingers apart! Miz stacks Nakamura, TWO!! Miz kicks low, BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO!! Miz can’t believe it but Nakamura survives! Miz shakes out his arm, waits on Nakamura, and Miz gives him IT KICKS! Then Miz runs in, but Nakamura ducks to roll him! Miz ducks the buzzsaw but not the WHEEL KICK! Cover, TWO! Miz survives but Nakamura doesn’t let up! Nakamura clinches, INVERTED EXPLODER, but Miz lands on his feet! Miz full nelsons but Nakamura arm-drags free! Miz dodges in the corner, runs back in, but Nakamura dodges the A-List Lariat! SLIDING GERMAN!!
Fans fire up and Nakamura takes aim! “YAO~!” Miz rises, but then he runs away to the apron! Fans boo and Miz grabs the skirt. Nakamura drags Miz back in, the ref is busy with the skirt, and Miz pokes Nakamura in the eyes! SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!! ROPEBREAK!!! Nakamura survives by a literal foot and Miz is shocked! Fans fire up and Miz drags Nakamura to center, but Nakamura cradles him! TWO!! Miz rushes in, into a KINSHASA!! Cover, Nakamura wins!
Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall
The King of Strong Style overcomes Miz in a must-see battle! Will Nakamura still find his way to the throne in the near future?
Adam Pearce meets with Raquel Rodriguez, Sonya Deville & Chelsea Green.
The Complaint Department is giving him quite the headache as the argument is that the title match is not happening now that Liv Morgan is hurt from Friday’s title defense against Damage CTRL. As much as Liv wants to defend the titles, she’s not medically cleared. No one wants to hear this, least of all him, but the title match is postponed. Oh, right, Liv is “injured.” How convenient. Yes, Chelsea, she is injured. Right, okay, wink wink. Funny how they keep moving the goal posts. Sonya says it’s funny, because as a former member of management, in a situation like this, the titles would be forfeited!
And as a former member of management, Sonya should know that would not fly! Then Chelsea wants to speak to PEARCE’s manager! Raquel is not going to hear them cry on and on an don. It isn’t happening tonight, but Raquel will gladly defend Liv’s honor against Chelsea! Pearce can make that official right now. And Sonya would love to see it. Right, Chelsea? Uh… Yeah! And Raquel will regret it! She’ll wish she never ever asked for this! You will all regret it! Whatever, Karen. But one way or another, Big Mami Cool and the Hot Mess are facing off, who will be the one to regret it?
Corey Graves interviews Seth Rollins.
We have footage from 2012 as Rollins said he was WWE’s next breakout star. Following highlights of his career so far, Graves says many consider Rollins a generation defining superstar, and he has a chance to add more history to his already impressive resumé at Night of Champions in the World Heavyweight Championship tournament finals. Graves thanks Rollins for his time, Rollins thanks Graves for having him. They go back a long way, but don’t go digging too deep. Graves will do his best.
Going back to 2012, Rollins was in a tournament to crown the very first NXT Champion. What did that moment mean to him? Rollins says at that time, there was a need for change. There was a fire for someone to take the reins of this industry, and Rollins had that vision. Rollins defeated Jinder Mahal in the finals to win the title. Becoming the first NXT Champion, he found a way to push the industry forward. And Graves says Rollins didn’t wait too long before moving up to Raw & SmackDown as part of The Shield. The Shield became one of the most dominant factions in WWE history, they wanted success and change and they wanted it now, and wouldn’t take no for an answer.
But as the Shield continued to dominate, Rollins saw a need to change himself. That’s what led to the “Chairshot Heard Around the World.” Rollins betrayed Roman and Ambrose, and Rollins says that to this day, people ask him why he did that. Fans said Rollins sold out. But Rollins says they’d beaten everyone there was to beat. And to reach ultimate success, you gotta take risks. If Rollins hadn’t hit Roman with the chair, what would the now look like?
Then why is this the right time for a new world champion? And why is it the right time for that new world champion to be Rollins? We’ll hear the rest of this interview later tonight.
Imperium heads to the ring!
Der Ring General arrives on Raw, and he is ready to make Monday nights sacred! He even stands on top of the announce desk so everyone can see him while Ludwig Kaiser says, “Ladies and gentlemen… I demand all your gratitude for your Intercontinental Champion…! Der Ring General…! GUUUNTHEEER!” Fans do cheer for the imposing figure of Gunther, and he takes the mic now. “Perhaps an introduction is due. For almost a year, I dominated Friday Night SmackDown as the undefeated and longest reigning Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion of the modern era.”
Fans cheer that, because it is impressive. Gunther says from this day forward, he will continue his mission here on Monday Night Raw. But he wants us to understand: No man here on Raw has yet been identified as the next challenger for his great prize, nor has earned his respect. “But in just a few moments, one man can achieve both. Tonight, this battle royal will determine my next challenger for MY championship, against THIS champion, at the Night of Champions!”
WWE Intercontinental Championship #1 Contender’s Battle Royal!
Ricochet, Baron Corbin, Matt Riddle, Riddick Moss, JD McDonagh, Elias, Akira Tozawa, Apollo Crews, Mustafa Ali, Dolph Ziggler, Bronson Reed, Cedric Alexander, Shelton Benjamin, Johnny Gargano, Dexter Lumis, Xyon Quinn, Von Wagner, The Viking Raiders, Los Lotharios, and The Alpha Academy are all in this to win this, but who will be the one and only #1 contender to Gunther’s title?
Raw returns and Apollo makes his entrance, now back on Raw after refreshing himself in NXT. Matt Riddle follows, and flicks his sandals at Gunther! Imperium has to hold Gunther back and The Bro gets in the ring. The bell rings and the chaos ensues! Fans fire up as the brawling goes on all around the ring. Tozawa fires hands on Corbin, the Vikings mug Bronson, but then Corbin TOSSES Tozawa to ELIMINATE him! Corbin says he’s back, baby! But then Lumis clotheslines and ELIMINATES Corbin! Corbin throws a fit, but then MMM dump and ELIMINATE Lumis! Mace & Mansoor brag, but fans boo.
But then Mace & Mansoor see Lumis glaring at them. They bump into the Alpha Academy, swing on them, but get ROCKED! The Alpha Academy DUMPS and ELIMINATES Mace! And yet, Maxxine loves it? Mace feels betrayed, and Mansoor stands up on the apron. Gargano SUPERKICKS Mansoor, but Mace catches! Only for Lumis to spool him into dropping Mansoor! Uh, someone ELIMINATES Mansoor! Mace runs away, Mansoor follows, it’s like Shaggy & Scooby running from a monster! Meanwhile, JD drags Carrillo out to the apron with him. Carrillo swings, JD ducks and HEADBUTTS! Carrillo follows, the Irish Ace ELIMINATES him!
Ziggler swings on JD, JD ducks and slingshots, but into a SUPERKICK! Ziggler ELIMINATES JD! But then Von grabs Ziggler with both hands and TOSSES him out to ELIMINATE him! The NXT call-ups are making some big impacts! But then JD RAMS Ziggler into steel steps! He’s a sore loser, we know that from NXT, and he just keeps RAMMING Ziggler into the steps! The refs reprimands but JD pulls the steps apart! The refs get him to stop, but will the Necessary Evil take out The Showoff? The battle royal rages on as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Erik stomps away on Cedrick. Ricochet throws hands on Reed, but then Erik turns him around to ROCK him! Erik then KNEES Reed and Ivar CLOBBERS Xyon! Ivar SPLASHES Crews, ROCKS Elias, and then the Vikings mug Alexander. Moss slips away from Benjamin, the VIkings TOSS and ELIMINATE Alexander! Then they mug Xyon! Gargano fights Moss’ scoop while The Vikings TOSS and ELIMINATE Xyon! Benjamin throws hands on the Vikings! Fans fire up as Benjamin ROCKS Erik! But Ivar BOOTS Benjamin, he and Erik mug Benjamin, and fans boo. The Vikings TOSS Benjamin and ELIMINATE him!
Fans boo more as the Vikings soak it up. but then they turn around and see the Alpha Academy. Fans rally up, and Otis RAMS Ivar! Gable and Erik throw hands! Gable throat chops, whips, and Erik goes to the apron! Gable runs in but into a shoulder! Erik brings Gable up in a suplex! But Gable fights and gets around! Erik fights off the German Suplex as Sarah Logan shouts. Erik ELBOWS Gable, Ace Ten Maou! But Otis BLASTS and ELIMINATES Erik!! Fans fire up and Gable hugs his number one guy! But then Ivar BLASTS and ELIMINATES Gable! Otis and Ivar fire fists and fans fire up!
But Bronson Reed DUMPS and ELIMINATES both Gable and Ivar! The Colossal is truly a force of nature! Sarah is furious, but Maxxine just comforts “Otise.” But now we have a final eight: Bronson Reed, Mustafa Ali, Ricochet, Matt Riddle, Apollo Crews, Johnny Gargano, Riddick Moss and Elias. Fans rally up as the other seven look at Reed, and attack! Fans fire up as the seven get Reed in a corner. Reed shoves people aside, and they all start brawling with each other., Gargano whips Ali, Ali goes up and over and keeps moving, but Gargano dodges to RANA! Ali ends up in a corner, fans fire up with Gargano!
Gargano runs in, Ali slips out and ROUNDHOUSES! Slingshot, somersault, NECKBREAKER! Ali tosses Gargano out but Gargano holds on! Ricochet runs over, Ali DECKS him! But Gargano SLINGSHOT SPEARS! Ricochet SHOOTING STARS Gargano! Fans fire up, Moss swings on Ricochet but misses! Ricochet springboards, into Moss’s arms! FALL AWAY SLAM! But Reed SAMOAN DROPS Moss! Apollo BOOTS Reed, goes up, FLYING BLOCKBUSTER! Fans fire up but Elias SYMPHO-KNEES Apollo! And SPLASHES Reed! And then he Electric Chair Lifts Apollo, but Apollo RANAS Elias out!
Elias swings on Apollo but Apollo PELES Elias out to ELIMINATE him! But Reed clotheslines Apollo up and out and ELIMINATES him! Ali jumps on Reed’s back, but Reed TOSSES him away! Ricochet runs in, Reed spins him around to a dragon sleeper. Gargano runs in, but Reed catches him, URENAGE REVERSE DDT COMBO! Riddle runs in to fire palm strikes! Reed shoves back, Riddle BOOTS him! But Reed SWATS the roundhouse! Reed shoves Riddle again, runs in, but into an elbow! Reed goes up, WHISP-BRO in the Wind! But Moss CLOBBERS Riddle! Moss keeps moving, but Riddle TOSSES Moss to ELIMINATE him!
Riddle taunts Moss but Gargano rolls Riddle for the SCHOOLBOY KICK! Riddle stands, but he catches Gargano to a headscissors and ELIMINATES him! Now there’s just four! The Bro, The Colossal, #PositiveAli and The King of Flight. But seeing Riddle on the outside, Imperium rushes in! The refs reprimand but Riddle KICKS Vinci! Ludwig trips Riddle! Fans boo, but Reed BLASTS Riddle and ELIMINATES him! Ricochet rushes Reed but Reed shoves him away. Riddle V-TRIGGERS! And DROPKICKS! Reed leans on the ropes, Ricochet lifts him! Ali helps out! They dump Reed to the apron but he holds onto ropes!
Ali and Ricochet mug Reed, but Reed HEADBUTTS Ali. Ricochet DROPKICKS Reed! Reed wobbles, Ricochet triangle jump DROPKICKS!! Reed is still holding on!? Ricochet triangle jumps again, but Reed gets him! Fireman’s carry, but now Ali is up top! Ali SPRINGBOARD MISSILE DROPKICKS them both, and WINS!!
Winner: Mustafa Ali, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the WWE Intercontinental Championship)
The Beacon is all fired up! Ali is heading to Night of Champions, but will he be able to take Gunther’s gold?
Becky Lynch is here!
Greensboro fires up for The Man as she heads to the ring. Fans cheer for Becky as she gets the mic. “The Man has come around to Greensboro! Look, uh, part of being The Man is admitting you’ve been going through some stuff. And lately, I’ve been going through some stuff. We all have our struggles. We have our struggles behind closed doors, we have small struggles, big struggles, medium struggles. And we put on the face that we need to put on so that we can do what we need to do to become the people that we want to be.” Fans cheer that!
Becky continues to say, “And sometimes, when it becomes too overwhelming and we feel like we can’t do it on our own anymore, we have to man up and ask for help. And that’s what I did. I asked for help from two legends in this business, two women who have been through a lot in their own life, Lita and Trish Stratus.” Fans boo Trish but Becky says Lita was great. Fans cheer Lita, and Becky says Lita came back, she and Becky won gold, and Trish came back, hadn’t missed a beat. Becky let Trish get close to her and her family, but she couldn’t see the snake in the grass that maybe everyone else saw coming a mile away.
Trish never came back to help Becky. Trish came back to help herself, “like the backstabbing ego maniac that she is.” But despite that, Becky did wanna come out here and to say, “Thank you, Trish.” But not for the bullock reasons she gave! No, thank you, Trish, because you hitting Becky in the back turned on a light that had been off for many, many months! Becky thanks Trish, because when Trish called Becky’s daughter stupid, Becky was reminded that the only thing that matters in life is standing up for the people that depend on us. And thank you, Trish, for giving all the badness in Becky’s head a face and a name and a target!
Fans cheer, and Becky continues that at one point, Trish was number one in the business. She wants to be there again, but Becky is it! Becky’s done it, she’s been it, she doesn’t need a title to prove it, and will be it until she says it is over! So if Trish wants it, she’s got it! Becky will show Trish how “thankful” she is when she kicks her head in at Night of Champions! Fans fire up as Becky throws down the mic as well as the gauntlet! Will Trish accept this big time challenge?
Backstage interview with Rhea Ripley.
Cathy Kelley knows Rhea’s been keeping a close eye on the Women’s Division. What is her opinion on Natalya coming to Raw and intervening as Rhea was beating up Dana Brooke? Rhea says Natty needs to stay in her lane. Natty has had a pretty impressive career, but- Natty steps in to say there is no but. Yes, Natty’s career is impressive. But everyone already knows that. And this isn’t about lanes, but about beating someone up who was already beat. Rhea is the most dominant woman to ever hold the SmackDown Women’s Championship. And Rhea does deserve respect. But respect is something Rhea is not giving the women she runs through.
Rhea chuckles, and tells Natty not to act like that was for Dana last week. Natty’s had a longer career, but we all know that Natty wanted to be in the ring with Rhea so that everyone would care about her again. So you’re welcome. But if you ever interrupt Rhea again, she won’t boost Natty’s career. She will end it. Dom walks over and tells Mami it’s time to go. Rhea and Dom leave, but will the Eradicator be made to respect the Queen of Harts?
Mustafa Ali runs across Maxxine Durpi and the Alpha Academy.
Maxxine is arguing with Gable and Ali wants them to stop with all the negativity. No wonder they both lost in the battle royal. But can he give them some advice? NO! Well, Ali used to be a loser, just like them. Until he started more positive, and now he’s a winner! YAY! Ali heads out, but then comes across Imperium. Gunther congratulates Ali, he is now the rightful challenger to what is rightfully Gunther’s. But Gunther already feels bad for Ali. Ali is going to travel halfway across the world, to suffer the biggest loss of his career. And the beating that goes with it, Good luck at Night of Champions.
Gunther offers a handshake, Ali accepts it, and Ali says he feels bad for Gunther. Gunther has to go all the way there, and all the way back, just for Ali to beat him, humiliate him, and take that title. Gunther smiles and Ali says that’s the key! Be positive! Ali heads out, but is he being confident? Or foolish?
Xavier Woods VS Dominik Mysterio w/ Rhea Ripley!
The Power of Positivity keeps on going, and wants another go at the Prodigal Son. Will Woods be ready for all the tricks The Judgment Day uses? Or will Dom 2-0 sweep the former tag team champion?
Raw returns as Dom makes his entrance, Rhea right by his side. Dom has the mic to say, “Look, Mami. It’s Xavier Woods.” Fans boo but Dom asks if Woods is here to convince himself that he can beat Dom because it’s a new day? Woods stops Dom right there. Dom’s right, Woods has no one to watch is back. Right now, anyway. But unlike Dom, Woods is a grown man who can stand on his own two feet and fight his own battles! Can Dom say the same? Or does Dom have to ask Mami for permission to speak? Fans chant for “MAMI! MAMI!” but Dom and Rhea just walk to the ring.
The bell rings, Woods and Dom circle, and they tie up. Woods wrenches, wristlocks, but Dom spins and wrenches back. Woods rolls, spins, kips up and wrenches to WRING Dom out! Fans rally, Woods hammerlocks and headlocks. Woods wrenches and headlocks again, fans taunt Dom with “Who’s Your Daddy?” as Woods arm-drags Dom! And then runs him over! And again! Dom sputters to ropes, Woods runs side to side, and he dropkicks Dom in the back! Cover, TWO! Dom is still in this and Rhea is relieved, but Woods drags Dom up. Dom knees low, bumps Woods off buckles and stomps away!
Fans boo but the ref counts and Dom lets off at 4. Rhea applauds and Dom soaks up the heat. But Dom turns around and Woods dropkicks him! Woods knuckle locks but Dom CLUBS away! Dom stomps Woods down then knuckle locks him in return. Dom taunts Woods while putting on the pressure. Woods fights up, pushes Dom down, and then yanks Dom up into a suplex! Cover, TWO! Dom bails out to regroup with Mami but Woods pursues. Rhea stands in Woods’ way and fans boo. Woods says fine, but Dom slips away. Rhea taunts Woods, Dom tells the fans up theirs, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Woods JABS Dom! And JABS! And JABS! Dom shoves, and UPPERCUTS Woods down! Cover, TWO! Rhea is mad at the ref but Dom rains down fists on Woods. Dom lets off to soak up more heat, and he stalks Woods to a corner. Dom puts Woods up top, throws hands, but fans chant “YOU SUCK!” Dom climbs up after Woods, tells the fans that they suck, but Woods throws hands in return! Woods HEADBUTTS Dom off the corner! Dom flounders, Woods stands up, and Woods jumps for the MISSILE DROPKICK! Fans fire up while both men are down again!
Woods and Dom stir as fans rally up. Woods ROCKS and CHOPS and repeat on Dom! Woods whips, Dom reverses but Woods ducks ‘n’ dodges then slides, to ROLLING ELBOW! Cover, TWO! Rhea is relieved again while Dom goes to a corner. Woods runs corner to corner and back elbows! Woods whips corner to corner, runs in again and clotheslines! Snapmare and HONOR- NO, Dom gets around! Woods throws elbows, wrenches and whips, but Dom reverses. Dom runs in but into a BOOT! Woods HONOR ROLLS! Cover, TWO! Rhea almost got in the ring, but she calms back down.
Dom wants mercy but then he YANKS Woods out of the ring! Woods hurries back up, but Dom dodges the shoulder to knee Woods! Dom has Woods for a snap suplex! Uno Amigo! Fans boo as Dom keeps going, Dos Amigos! Rhea is loving this as Dom brings Woods up for THREE AMIGOS! Dom gives us Latino Heat and Rhea applauds. Fans boo as Dom climbs the corner, blows a kiss to Rhea, and FROG SPLASHES onto knees!! Cover, TWO!! Dom survives, Rhea freaks out, but Woods trophy lifts Dom for a GUT BUSTER DROP!! Cover, TWO!! Dom survives again but Rhea is panicking!
Woods drags Dom around, goes to the apron, and he climbs the corner. Woods tightrope walks, for the LIMIT- NO, Rhea drags Dom out of the ring! The ref reprimands, but Woods PLANCHAS Dom down! Woods puts Dom in the ring, Rhea distracts him, and Dom WRECKS Woods with a dropkick! Dom gets in, he argues with the ref, and Rhea hits Woods from behind! Rhea puts Woods in for Dom to GEDO CLUTCH! Dom wins again!!
Winner: Dominik Mysterio, by pinfall
Mami helps Dommy again! It still proves Woods right, but how can Woods win without someone watching his back?
JD McDonagh speaks.
“For the longest time, I really bought into it. I believed, y’know? I believed that if you worked as hard as you could, if you trust the process and you treat the others around you with respect, you’ll get your turn. But then the years tick on, and I see other guys, guys that aren’t fit to lace my boots, get opportunities ahead of me. And I started to realize… I am performing for an audience of fools. And now what you’re left with is this. I am the paracausal force. The plane of suffering. I am the destructor, I dig the graves. The Irish Ace is here to stay.”
Backstage interview with JD McDonagh.
At least, Cathy is hoping to. She hurries after him as he leaves the building, and asks him about why he attacked Ziggler during the battle royal. JD says he came to Raw to make a statement, and who better against than Ziggler? Ziggler’s done it all. Former world champion, Intercontinental, Money in the Bank. But he found out what everyone will find out soon: Never bet against the Ace.
Indus Sher w/ Jinder Mahal VS ???
Veer & Sanga were already powerful forces on their own, but now the Modern Day Maharaja is leading them. Will they soon take over the Raw Tag Division with their size and strength?
The teams sort out and Veer starts against Jobber A, but then he just BLASTS Jobber B at the bell! And he CLOBBERS Jobber A with a big shoulder! Veer stomps Jobber A out, tags Sanga in, and Veer drags Jobber A out onto the ropes for Sanga to BOOT him down! Sanga roars, he drags Jobber A back up and throws him to the corner! Sanga wants Jobber B to tag in, so Jobber B tags in. Only for Sanga to TOSS him across the way! Sanga then runs in to SPLASH Jobber B in the corner! Tag to Veer, Sanga scoops Jobber B, and he SLAMS him down. Veer then jumps for a BIG elbow drop!
Sanga then BOOTS Jobber A off the apron! He almost wipes out a cameraman! Veer RAMS Jobber B into the corner, and shouts “NAMASTE!” before he SPLASHES Jobber B from behind! Jinder is pleased as Sanga tags back in. Sanga drags Jobber B up, Veer goes up, LEG DROP SIDEWALK SLAM COMBO! Cover, Indus Sher wins!
Winners: Indus Sher, by pinfall
Apparently, these two young men are named Lamar and Drake. Those names can be on the hospital room doors here in Greensboro, because Veer & Sanga have their names on the winners’ checks. Jinder gets the mic to say, in Hindi, that Indus Sher are going to dominate. And then he gets on commentary to say that a lot of people talk about running Monday Night Raw. Jinder says that Indus Sher now runs Raw. And their future will be written in gold! Will anyone refute the words of the Modern Day Maharaja?
Sami & Kevin talk backstage.
They’re in agreement that they’re going to beat Finn & Priest to roll into Night of Champions, but then Imperium walks over. Kevin asks what they’re doing. Why? Sami also wants to know why. Gunther says he will not tolerate the disrespect Sami & Kevin showed his men last week. Ugh. Disrespect? Really? Is that what Gunther’s saying? Well how about this? Next week, Kevin & Sami will take them all on! Not tonight, they already have a fight for tonight, but next week is wide open! It’ll be all three of them! Sami says they’ll find a partner. But is that good? Imperium accepts and heads out. Sami says Kevin is at a 10 all the time. But will Kevin & Sami #JustKeepFighting until Night of Champions?
Cody Rhodes exits his bus.
The American Nightmare is ready to speak, and he heads to gorilla. What will he say about accepting the challenge to fight Brock Lesnar at Night of Champions?
Cody Rhodes heads to the ring!
Raw returns and fans sing along with the song. Cody gets his pyro and continues into the ring, for more pyro! Cody gets the mic and fans cheer more. “So, Greensboro, North Carolina… Whaddya wanna talk about? I know these grounds, I know this arena. This is the fabled, very first home of Starrcade.” Fans cheer that fact, and Cody says, “A wonderful memory, a great amount of mutual respect, respect that is not shared by Brock Lesnar, who has elected not to be here.” Fans boo that fact, but Cody says this is a fun audience. He’s going to try something you don’t typically hear on a sports entertainment show…
“Ladies and gentlemen, have you heard the one about the scorpion and the frog?” Some fans have, so Cody says it is a simple story. There’s a scorpion on one side of the river and needs to get across to the other side. He asks a frog, who can hop and swim, if he can get a ride. The frog says, “Hell nah,” the scorpion would sting him! The scorpion says no, because if he did, they’d both drown. That logic is airtight for the frog. The frog gives the scorpion a ride, and halfway across the river, what happens? The fans also know, the scorpion still stings the frog. And as the frog is dying, he asks the scorpion, “Why?” The scorpion replies, “It’s my nature.”
So it is Brock Lesnar’s nature to hunt. Brock Lesnar must be hunting. “But make sure, Brock, if you’re the one who’s hunting, let me ask you something: how’s your face?” Cody knows Lesnar looks in the mirror and sees a lion, “the alpha male of our species,” but he should also see a black eye and some staples. When Cody looks in the mirror, he sees the man who put them there! He sees the man who broke Lesnar’s face and spirit and beat the biggest bully in WWE history! So Cody gladly accepts the challenge for Night of Champions! Fans cheer that, and Cody says he won’t go “out of bounds.”
There’s always been talk about Brock’s ego, his manipulation of the roster, his performing dates. You wanna know why Lesnar is on top and has been on top? Because Brock Lesnar is better than 99.9% of the superstars who come into this ring. But at Backlash, Brock Lesnar was NOT better than Cody Rhodes. Fans cheer that, too! Now, Lesnar called that a “cheap win.” It was a wrestling counter to a wrestling hold in a wrestling ring, so how cheap is that? Even if Cody was imbued with the powers of God and won in 20 SECONDS, Lesnar would still have hunted Cody down. This isn’t about a title, this is about something else. This is about who is the Big Thing on Monday Night Raw.
Fans chant for “CODY! CODY!” and Cody says “The Next Big Thing,” that was what they called Lesnar. The Next Big Thing, and they were right. “But eventually, Brock, what happens when they just say… next?” Lesnar has conquered the WWE, he has conquered sports entertainment, he has conquered this sport. But we are at the point where Cody wants Lesnar to take his busted face, step aside, and understand he is NOT the big thing, he is just in Cody’s way! Fans fire up as Cody drops the mic. Will the American Nightmare beat Lesnar at his own game at Night of Champions?
Zoey Stark brags backstage.
She just knew she was gonna win and succeed. Everything is going great for her! Wait, she’s saying this to Nikki Cross, who she beat? And Nikki isn’t even paying attention! Zoey calls her a freak, but then Candice LeRae storms over to tell Zoey not to talk to Nikki like that. Uh, what? Where is Candice’s “little weirdo family?” Uh, excuse you, Zoey! Do not talk about her family like that. In fact, they don’t have to do this here. They can do this in the ring. Zoey says perfect, see you next Monday. Candice coming to Nikki’s defense, is she actually becoming Nikki’s friend?
Raquel Rodriguez VS Chelsea Green w/ Sonya Deville!
The WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions are still #LivingLarge, but without Liv cleared to compete, there is no tag title defense. Will Big Mami Cool still live it up and clean up the Hot Mess? Or will Karen- Er, Chelsea make Raquel regret underestimating her?
Raw returns as The Complaint Department make their entrance. The bell rings, Sonya gives Chelsea some last minute advice, but then Raquel just BOOTS Chelsea down! Raquel tells Sonya to watch out or she’ll get it, too. Raquel bumps Chelsea off buckles, then bumps her off more buckles. Raquel scoops Chelsea, carries her around, but Sonya distracts! Chelsea slips away while Raquel glares at Sonya, and then Chelsea hits a BACKSTABBER! And a motorcycle stretch STOMP into the buckles! Fans boo but Chelsea says “Too easy!” Chelsea runs in at the corner to clothesline! And clothesline! And elbow!
Fans boo, the ref counts, and Chelsea lets off with one last forearm! Chelsea then pushes Raquel out of the corner to CHOP BLOCK her leg! Fans boo more but Chelsea runs to SLIDING COMPLETE SHOT! Cover, ONE!! Raquel still has lots of power but Sonya says to stay on her. Chelsea throws in elbows then wraps on a chinlock. Chelsea throws crossface forearms but fans rally for Raquel. Chelsea armlocks and chinbars Raquel, but Raquel fights up. Raquel scoops Chelsea and SNAKE EYES! Chelsea staggers, fans fire up, but Chelsea drop toeholds Raquel onto ropes! Chelsea then DROPKICKS Raquel down! Cover, TWO!
Chelsea is surprised but Sonya coaches her. Chelsea chicken wings Raquel, turns her, but Raquel powers up to lift Chelsea! INVERTED ALABAMA SLAM hotshot on the ropes! Chelsea sputters, staggers, Sonya is still confident, but Raquel rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT! Chelsea dodges one but not the SOUTHPAW! Raquel whips, Chelsea reverses and ROCKS Raquel! Chelsea runs and leaps, into Raquel’s arms! FALL AWAY SLAM! Raquel scoops to FALL AWAY SLAM again! Fans fire up with Raquel and she scoops for a third FALL AWAY SLAM! Chelsea is in a drop zone, Raquel runs in, TWISTING VADER!
Raquel isn’t done with Chelsea, she gets her up for the TEXANA BOMB!! Cover, Raquel wins!
Winner: Raquel Rodriguez, by pinfall
Sonya is furious, but she’s the one who put Chelsea in this position. Will this be the same result when the tag titles are finally on the line?
Wait, RONDA ROUSEY AND SHAYNA BASZLER attack Raquel at the stage! Ronda mockingly announces Raquel as the tag team champion, then sits her up. “Hey, champ, got a question for ya. What’re you supposed to do with that title, huh? That was rhetorical, okay? Defend it!” Ronda tells Raquel she’ll defend the title with or without Liv, or else she’ll catch this same beating week after week! Fans boo but Ronda says, “One more thing.” She sets Raquel up for Shayna to PENALTY KICK down! The Baddest Women on the Planet are ready to be champions, when and where will they get their shot?
Imperium meets with someone.
And they shake his hand to accept his offer. It’s PAUL HEYMAN! Heyman then calls Roman Reigns, perhaps to share the good news. Is Imperium going to soften Sami & Kevin up for The Tribal Chief and Solo Sikoa?
Raw shares part two of Graves’ interview with Rollins.
Rollins said if he hadn’t put the chair to Roman’s back, where would we be now? That is a great “What if.” But in the wake of that moment, we’ve since seen many “iterations” of Rollins. The Architect under The Authority, the Monday Night Messiah during ThunderDome Era. He’s been Universal Champion, World Champion, Mr. Money in the Bank and he pulled off The Heist of the Century. Why is the current iteration the best? Yes, The Visionary! Seth Freakin’ Rollins! HAHAHA! But man, this approach, Rollins’ hands are off the wheel.
“That’s the fun part! We’re in this crazy synergistic experience with the WWE Universe, and I get to experience it for the first time in my career, in the most authentic version of myself.” The fans sing “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~” whenever Rollins is on screen, and Graves asks why he thinks that is. Why is it now? Rollins says that it could be the equity, the time, the hard work. Who knows. “But there is some organic relationship. For the first time in my career, I’m not the one forcing the change. The WWE Universe has been the catalyst for the change in me.”
Rollins has made it through the Raw bracket of the World Heavyweight Championship tournament, is going to Night of Champions, so why is now the right time for a new WHC? And why is Rollins the guy to hold it? “I hate to say it, but… We need a change again. I don’t feel like anybody at the top wants to take any risks with the titles they’re holding. I think they’re more about protecting themselves than about pushing the industry forward. And so now is the perfect time for a new World Heavyweight Championship, and we can do it the way it’s supposed to be done.”
With that in mind, Graves then asks, “What are your thoughts on Roman Reigns and his Undisputed Universal Championship reign?” Rollins smirks and knew it’d get there. Rollins takes off his sunglasses to get serious, but this part of the interview will be shared next week.
Apollo Crews speaks.
“People keep asking me, ‘Apollo, are you grateful to be back?’ A second chance at the opporutnity of a lifetime? Of course I am. But let’s be clear. This isn’t a gift. Nothing was handed to me. I’m a former United States Champion, Intercontinental Champion. I’ve fought on every corner of the planet and nobody says my name without putting some respect on it. I earned my way back. Never backed down from adversity no matter what, and I did it all by being the man that my kids can be proud of. I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it. This is my time.”
Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn VS Finn Balor & Damian Priest!
The Undisputed Tag Team Champions sure are busy! Night of Champions against Roman & Solo. Next Monday against all of Imperium with a third man they haven’t even found yet. But tonight, they take on the Judgment Day’s Prince and Punisher! Will Kevin & Sami #JustKeepFighting to prove they truly are the best team in WWE? Or will there be speedbump after speedbump on this golden road?
Raw returns as the champions make their entrance. The teams sort out and Sami starts against Finn. Fans rally for Sami but Finn talks trash. They tie up, Finn waistlocks and SLAMS, then he slaps Sami around. Fans boo but Finn soaks up the heat. Sami and Finn reset, circle and tie up, and Finn gets an arm. Finn wrenches the arm to a wristlock, but Sami spins, wrenches, and wristlocks back. Sami brings Finn around, but Finn rolls, hooks a leg, but Sami wrangles him back down. Finn kips up, but Sami wrenches to a hammerlock. Finn puts the hammerlock on Sami but Sami puts it back on Finn.
The fans rally for Sami and sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE~!” Finn reaches back, elbows free, and Sami falls over. Finn brings Sami up, headlocks, but Sami powers out. Things speed up, Sami arm-drags Finn, and arm-drags again to have an armlock! Finn fight up, puts Sami in the corner, and Priest tags in. Judgment Day mugs Sami, and Priest CLUBS Sami around. Priest HEADBUTTS Sami, scoops him, but Sami slips off to bump Priest off buckles! Sami then goes up the corner, leaps and AX HANDLES! Cover, ONE!! Kevin says that was three but not even close. Sami puts Priest in the corner and Kevin tags in.
Fans fire up as the champs mug Priest, Kevin CHOPS and ROCKS and ROCKS Priest again! Kevin whips, Priest kicks Kevin away! But Kevin ENZIGURIS! Priest staggers but stays up, and Kevin eggs him on. Priest runs in, Kevin dumps him out! Finn runs in, but Kevin sends him out! Finn wants Priest to hold on, they should think about this. Finn then calls to Dom and Rhea! The rest of the Judgment Day storms out to the ring and fans boo. Kevin and Sami stay cool, they expected this. But even so, the numbers are not in their favor, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Priest keeps Sami from Kevin. Sami fights up but Priest CLUBS him to the Judgment Day corner. Tag to Finn and Finn bumps Sami off buckles. Finn RAMS into Sami, RAMS him again, and again! The ref counts, Finn RAMS Sami until 4. Finn then runs to CHOP Sami! Rhea and Dom are both stinging from that, and Finn whips corner to corner. Finn runs in to CHOP again! Rhea and Dom cheer Finn on as he whips corner to corner again. But Sami comes back to CLOBBER Finn! Fans fire up and Dom is worried. Sami crawls, as does Finn, but Finn grabs Sami’s foot! Sami boots Finn away, hot tags to Kevin and Priest!
Kevin dodges Priest, clotheslines Finn in the corner, then turns around to fire off haymakers on Priest! They end up on the ropes, Kevin stomps away on Priest, but the ref counts. Kevin lets off with a roar and the fans fire up. Priest bails out but Kevin pursues, to CLOBBER Priest! And SENTON! Priest sputters, Kevin roars some more, and Kevin puts Priest in. Rhea rushes Kevin but he dodges! Kevin CLOBBERS Finn, CLOBBERS Dom, escapes Rhea and taunts her! Priest runs in but Kevin dodges, to then SUPERKICK! Priest sits down, Kevin keeps moving, “SUCK IT!” CANNONBALL! Cover, TWO!
Rhea is relieved that Priest survives but Kevin keeps focus. Fans chant “Fight Owens, Fight!” Kevin throws hands, BOOTS Priest, then runs, but Dom trips him up! The ref saw that, but Priest CLOBBERS Kevin from behind! The ref shouts at Dom and Rhea, and EJECTS them!! So much for Finn’s plan! The fans fire up while the Judgment Day is furious! Rhea & Dom reluctantly leave, Priest runs in at Kevin, but into a SUPERKICK! And a BOOT! Both men are down and fans rally back up. Woods goes after Dom!! Fans fire up as Woods fires off fists and chases Dom to the back! Rhea is shocked!
Back to the ring, Kevin and Priest rise, but Priest rolls Kevin up! TWO!! Wait, Heyman walks out now?! Priest CLOBBERS Kevin, and he smiles as he sees The Wise Man. Heyman is on the phone with Roman again as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns once again, and Priest brings Kevin up to ROCK him! Kevin ROCKS Priest! Priest ROCKS Kevin! Kevin SLAPOS Priest! Priest ROCKS Kevin! Kevin ROCKS Priest, DECKS Finn, but Priest KNEES low! Priest ROCKS Kevin, sucker punches Sami, and then Finn hurries to bring Sami up! Finn sends Sami into steel steps! Fans boo but Kevin BOOTS Priest! Kevin DECKS Finn again! But Priest back elbows Kevin in the corner! Tag to Finn, snapmare and slingshot STOMP! Priest tags back in, Finn sends Kevin into a ROUNDHOUSE! Finn scoops Kevin, BACKBREAKER LEG DROP COMBO! Cover, TWO!
Kevin hangs tough and fans fire up again! Priest is annoyed, but he drags Kevin up. Priest puts Kevin in a corner, hoists him up top, and ROCKS him with right hands and forearms. Kevin hits back! But Priest HEADBUTTS Kevin, then climbs up. Priest brings Kevin up, but Kevin fights with body shots! And with haymakers! But Priest gives forearms in return! Fans boo but Kevin CHOPS! And HEADBUTTS! And HEADBUTTS! And headbutts and headbutts! Kevin ELBOWS Priest down, adjusts, then SWANTON BOMBS!! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous! And Sami’s back up!
Fans rally as Kevin and Priest crawl. Hot tags to Finn and Sami! The Great Liberator rallies on The Prince! Then he dodges, and TACKLES Finn to rain down fists! Finn gets away but Sami kicks him. Sami whips, Finn reverses but Sami goes up and over to scoop and MICHINOKU DRIVER! Cover, TWO!! Finn survives, Heyman is worried, and Sami brings Finn to a drop zone. Sami goes up top and fans fire up again. Finn stands up and rushes over but Sami leaps up and over. Finn comes back to SLINGBLADE! Sami staggers, Finn tags aim, SHOT- BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Cover, TWO!! Finn survives again!
Fans rally up, but now Imperium appears at ringside! Gunther, Ludwig & Vinci all distract Sami, Finn rolls Sami up! TWO!! Sami swings, into a dragon sleeper! BLOODY SUNDAY!! Cover, Kevin breaks it!! Priest returns to choke grip! But Kevin slips free to STUN- NO, Priest shoves Kevin! Priest choke grips again, but Kevin kicks free to STUNNER!! But Finn TOSSES Kevin! But Sami gets Finn for a CORNER EXPLODER! And then Sami goes corner to corner, HELLUVA KICK!! But Imperium distracts! Kevin DECKS Vinci, DECKS Ludwig, then goes out after them! Gunther is there, so Kevin shoves him! But Priest APRON CHOKE SLAMS Kevin!!
Sami FLIES out onto Priest!! Fans are thunderous again as Sami goes back in! He reloads and aims from the corner, but Imperium slides in the ring! The ref stops Vinci & Ludwig, but Gunther trips up Sami! Finn SHOTGUNS Sami! Sami ends up in the drop zone and Finn goes up top! COUP DE GRACE!! Cover, Finn & Priest win!!!
Winners: Finn Balor & Damian Priest, by pinfall
Heyman smiles, it seems this was the deal that was struck. Imperium and Judgment Day ended up working together to damage Kevin & Sami, and that only makes things easier for The Bloodline come Night of Champions. But did the Wise Man promise Der Ring General and his men something in return for this assistance? Who will Kevin & Sami find to help them get revenge next week?
My Thoughts:
A great Raw here with so much great build towards Night of Champions. Great promo from Cody as always to call out Lesnar and accept the challenge. I like that he used Pat McAfee’s nickname for Lesnar, but I’m a bit disappointed this match isn’t being made into more than another standard singles match. Lesnar shouted he wants to fight, so why is this not some kind of match that would prevent another quick pinfall win? Becky has a great promo of her own to call out Trish, and of course we’re getting a match between them at Night of Champions. And great interview stuff with Graves and Rollins, with it slightly pulling back the curtain. I like that they’re saving Rollins commenting on Roman for next week and the go-home, but this all surely leads to Rollins winning the new WHC.
Really good match from Nakamura VS Miz, and of course Nakamura wins that. But also, there’s probably a reason “Mizuke” isn’t a team. In Japanese, “mizuke” means moisture or dampness. I don’t think Nakamura wants to be associated with Miz or dampness. Meanwhile, a bit of a shame Liv is hurt (not sure if kayfabe or shoot), but good promo to shift from a tag match to a singles match, and I figured Raquel would win that. But I should’ve expected Ronda & Shayna to attack Raquel while she’s without back-up, and this is of course finally moving things back to Ronda & Shayna challenging for and taking the tag titles.
Indus Sher of course won their Raw debut, but the graphics they used being cybernetic themed does not match their presentation because, uh, they’re not cyborgs! But I do like that Jinder subtly called out Judgment Day, as Judgment Day says they run Raw, but that might change now. And speaking of, really good stuff out of Judgment Day, like Rhea’s interaction with Natty to further nod towards a title match between them, and Dom VS Woods in a rematch that Woods again cheats to win. I do like that Raw is getting full of trios, and I would love to see them all interact and have Six Man Tag matches.
Good vignette promos for JD and Apollo to establish them here on Raw, and great showings from them in the Intercontinental Championship battle royal. And of course Ziggler the gatekeeper is gonna have a feud with JD. That’s gonna be good stuff, and JD of course wins in the end. Mustafa Ali winning the battle royal is great for him, but I don’t see him overcoming Gunther. And great use of Imperium in multiple stories, such as with Ali, but also with Kevin & Sami and the Undisputed Tag Team Championships. Kevin & Sami have their choice for third man, but I feel like it should be Ali so Ali can perhaps build momentum towards Night of Champions.
Kevin & Sami VS Judgment Day was a great stuff, even with having Imperium and Heyman involved. I am thinking Heyman promised Imperium the first title opportunity, should Solo & Roman win at Night of Champions. Kinda hoping that doesn’t happen, so that Kevin & Sami can fight off Indus Sher, Imperium, Judgment Day and a SmackDown tag team that isn’t really involved in anything. I say that also because I want Roman & Solo VS The Usos as a separate feud for the fate of The Bloodline. But I suppose we’ll get more of this on SmackDown, since we’re supposed to have Kevin & Sami meeting face to face with Roman & Solo.
My Score: 8.7/10
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!
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!
London calling to the champion crowns!
SmackDown brings gold to London as LA Knight defends his WWE US Championship and The Street Profits defend their tag team titles! Will the landscape change this close to WrestleMania?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly; The Profits win and retain the titles.
- Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice w/ Chelsea Green; The Secret Her-vice wins.
- WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman; Braun wins, by disqualification, and Knight retains the title.
- Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab; Charlotte wins.
- Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.
- Jimmy Uso VS The Miz; Jimmy wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes is here!
We follow The American Nightmare as walks to gorilla, then through the curtain, and London sings along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, says hello to fans along the ramp, and then we get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro. Cody goes to the ring, grabs a mic, then kneels down to kiss the WWE logo on the mat. The fans continue to sing along all the way to the end, “I AM MY KINGDOM!” The fans then cheer, and Cody holds up the belt to fire them up even more! The fans now sing for “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and he soaks it in. The fans cheer again as Cody smiles, and he finally says, “So, London~! Whaddya wanna talk about?”
The fans chant “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Cody hears that dueling, and he smiles again. The song of “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” returns, then they cheer. Cody says, “At WrestleMania 41, I will be facing John Cena…” The fans boo, but Cody says, “I will be facing John Cena as he goes to break the record and win 17. But that is WrestleMania 41. In just a few nights, I will be standing face to face with John Cena in this very same city, in this very same arena.” The fans cheer that, but then here comes Randy Orton! Now the fans sing along with Voices as The Viper heads to the ring. Orton also high-fives fans before he joins Cody.
Orton grabs a mic, paces while the fans keep singing on their own, and then the fans cheer. Orton says he’s not really the sentimental type, but for Cody and for London, screw it. The fans chant “R K O! R K O!” and Orton tells Cody, “Look at you. Look at who you are now, the man you are now. Look at where he came from.” The fans cheer and sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and Orton says he remembers a Cody in his early 20s, just breaking into the business. Cody was busting his ass harder than anyone else. He wasn’t exactly happy, and in fact, he was frustrated. But Cody was man enough, smart enough, to know he needed to grow, and that he couldn’t grow in the WWE.
Cody wasn’t exactly treated fairly in the WWE, so Cody left the WWE! That took some big ass balls to do what he did! Cody changed the business singlehandedly, and everyone in the back knows it. And Orton appreciates Cody for it. But then Cody came back, as they all knew one day he would. And the industry has been changed forever since the day Cody came back to the WWE. Cody is a bit teary eyed as Orton says Cody’s still the same guy, he just did what he set out to do, and he grew. Orton teases he would sing along with the fans, but the fans might leave. The fans again sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!”
Orton asks if they remember when Cody Rhodes faced Seth Rollins in Hell in a Cell. The fans cheer because they do. Orton says that was impressive, and even impossible, as he started with a partially torn pec and then ended with a fully torn pec! His body changed all kinds of shades of purple that Orton’s never seen on a human body. The pain he must have been in. Cody persevered not just for himself. Maybe not even at all for Cody. It was not even for his family legacy; it was for each and every single fan out there! Then Cody went on to WrestleMania, beat Roman Reigns and finished the story!
But there’s always another story, isn’t there? And Cody’s right in the middle of one. Cody is in charge of his legacy, and it is a privilege for Orton to watch Cody take control of it. Ticket sales have been up, there’s more intrigue around the world, and listen to the people! It is 99.9% all because of Cody! The fans cheer that, and of course they sing. Orton says what he’s trying to say is a long-winded version of he respects Cody, loves him, and is very, very proud of him. The fans cheer that! Orton then says, “But… But now it is time for WrestleMania.” They both look to the sign, and Orton says he can guarantee Cody that Orton will kick Kevin Owens so hard in the head…!
Orton can just feel it already! He forgets how many days are left, but he can’t wait to remove Kevin’s head from his shoulders. And Orton knows Cody will enter champion, exit champion, but not before he beats the holy hell outta Cena all up and down the Vegas strip! But after all the smoke clears and the dust settles, just like Orton wants Number 17, there will come a time when Orton will want Number 15. But Orton won’t kick Cody in the balls like a coward. Orton will look Cody in the eye because he respects Cody, is proud of Cody, and sees him as an equal. Orton will look Cody in the eye and tell him that he’s coming for the title.
The fans cheer but wait! Drew McIntyre is here! The fans cheer the Scottish Terminator as he steps out on stage, mic in hand, and has a wry smile on his face as he looks at the ring. Drew waves as the fans now sing, “OH~ Drew McIntyre~!” Drew says, “Isn’t this wonderful? A couple of nepo babies having a love fest in the middle of the ring> It makes me absolutely sick. What’d you just say, Randy? if Cody gets through Cena at WrestleMania, you’re coming for that title? What exactly have you done since that big comeback to justify that title match? Aside be Randy Orton. The only big moment I can remember is you being on the shelf for months and months and months.
“People like to make jokes about it, but more people talk about my five-minute-45-second title reign than your entire comeback so far! So get to the back of the line, sunshine! As for you, Cody, you should’ve listened to me. But you shunned me. You attacked me. Everybody should’ve listened to me about John Cena, but they didn’t. And the next night, he kicked you right in the twig ‘n’ berries, proving me right as usual. And the main event of WrestleMania should be Cody Rhodes VS The UK’s only ever world champion, Drew McIntyre!” Fans do like that idea. But sadly, it’s not, because of that guyliner wearing Temu Undertaker, Damian Priest!
Drew wants to talk about what is happening. And what’s gonna happen! Drew steps up to the ring while fans sing for him again. Drew says it will not be Randy that takes the title from Cody, should he get through Cena; it’ll be McIntyre. The fans cheer, but Orton says they were trying to have a moment. Can Drew just cut the crap already? Drew says okay, sure. He’ll tell the truth, because that’s all he ever does. The truth is, Kevin might have a point! If those Voices are talking to Orton again, then they know Drew very, very well. And he’s thinking, “My God, Randy looks great! Absolutely jacked! On the outside.”
On the inside, that back is hanging by a thread. And if Orton provokes McIntyre, McIntyre will break him. And as for Cody- Cody kicks Drew and UPPERCUTS him! The fans fire up, and Orton R- NO, Drew gets away! The fans boo, but the battlelines are drawn! Even if Cody makes it out of the frying pan that is Las Vegas, it’ll be into the fire that is these contenders waiting in line! Will the American Nightmare be ready for whoever comes for the crown?
WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly!
Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins are finally golden again, but it’s time to put the titles on the line already! And while they’re ready for the grind, they’re up against the hometown heroes! Will the Profits still be up in the O2? Or will Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say #YESBOY to a new reign of their own?
The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really wants the smoke!
The teams sort out and Kit starts with Dawkins. They tie up, Dawkins headlocks, but Kit powers up and out. Dawkins runs Kit over, the fans fire up, and Dawkins fires hands on Kit in the corner! The fans rally for Pretty Deadly, Dawkins whips Kit to a corner, but Elton takes that bump! Kit CLOBBERS Dawkins, then tags Elton! Atomic drop into DROPKICK! Ford runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Dawkins whips, Elton reverses, and then Elton hurdles so Kit can DDT! The fans fire up with Pretty Deadly while the Profits bail out. Pretty Deadly has control while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Elton is right on Dawkins as he gets in, and UPPERCUTS him to the corner. Elton clinches Dawkins for another UPPERCUT! Tag to Kit, and Elton RAMS into Dawkins so Kit can UPPERCUT! Dawkins flops over, Kit drags him up to wrench the arm. Kit whips, Dawkins reverses, but Kit grabs ropes. Kit ELBOWS Dawkins, DECKS Ford, but Dawkins CLOBBERS Kit! The ref reprimands but Dawkins RAMS Kit into the corner again and again! The ref counts, Dawkins fires fast hands, then he tags in Ford. Ford says, “SUCK IT!” then he KICKS Kit! Ford scuffs Kit, then drags him to a cover, TWO!
Ford keeps Kit down with a facelock, but Kit endures the grind. Kit fights up, fires body shots, but Ford whips him away. Kit sunset flips! Ford rolls through, and PENALTY KICKS! Ford mocks Elton with the Scott Hall fingers, and the ref has to keep Elton back. Ford drags Kit up, tags Dawkins, and the Profits mug Kit. Dawkins CLUBS Kit down, then stalks him. Dawkins stays between Kit and Elton, then whips Kit into the Profits’ corner. CYCLONE- NO, Kit dodges! Ford tags in, he keeps Kit from Elton now, but Kit slips out of the suplex! Kit fakes high to go low, hot tag to Elton! Elton rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT!
Elton kicks and whips Ford to a corner, then UPPERCUTS! Elton whips the other way, UPPERCUTS again, and then does it again! Elton adds to the hattrick with a lift, Ford says a quick prayer before the SUPLEX! Ford flounders, gets to his feet, but Elton dodges to springboard and FLYING UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! Ford stays in this, but Elton stays on him. SmackDown returns to single picture and fans rally for Pretty Deadly as Elton gives Ford a back suplex. Ford lands out, waistlocks, but Elton switches and shoves Ford. Ford CLOBBERS Elton in return! Ford is also dazed but he covers, ONE!
Kit reaches out, Elton and Ford both crawl, hot tags to Kit and Dawkins! The fans fire up as Dawkins wrenches Kit, underhooks and SILENCER! Dawkins Electric Chair Lifts Kit, Ford climbs, but Kit slips free! Kit shoves Dawkins into Ford! Ford falls to the floor, but Dawkins ENZIGIRIS Kit! Elton tags in, and Kit LARIATS Dawkins! Pretty Deadly combine for DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Dawkins survives and the Profits are a bit unsure of what to do next. Dawkins crawls to a corner, Elton runs up, but Dawkins dodges! Elton hits buckles and Dawkins TOSSES Kit, then Dawkins hits a SKY HIGH on Elton!
Dawkins hurries to tag Ford and Ford climbs up! But Kit pushes Elton out of the way! Kit takes FROM THE HEAVESN, and Elton ghost pins Ford! TWO!! Ford escapes, and he ROCKS Elton! Elton UPPERCUTS Ford! Dawkins sneaks a tag, Ford SUPERKICKS! POUNCE SAIDO COMBO!! Cover, KIT BREAKS IT! The fans fire up while all four men are down! The teams go to opposite ends, then they all stand up in the corners. They all roar, all run in, and Kit SPEARS Ford while Elton FLYING UPPERCUTS Dawkins!! London is thunderous, and Kit hurries to tag in! Pretty Deadly gets Dawkins up, for SPILT MILK!! Cover, FORD BREAKS IT!
The fans are shocked, as is Elton, but Ford saves this for his team! “This is Awesome!” as Ford runs up and Elton TOSSES him out! Now DRY MARTI- NO! Dawkins doesn’t accept the second serving, and he DUMPS Kit out! Kit skins the cat while Dawkins DECKS Elton! Dawkins catches Kit to an Electric Chair! Ford rises, DOOMSDAY BLOCKBUSTER!! Cover, Profits win!
Winners: The Street Profits, by pinfall (still WWE Tag Team Champions)
Pretty Deadly put up a heroic fight, but the hometown heroes could not capture the gold. Dawkins & Ford hold onto the gold, will this be the strongest the Profits have ever been?
Kayden & Katana talk with Zelina Vega.
Carter & Chance know La Muneca got screwed over by The Green Administration. Chelsea thinks she’s untouchable, but someone’s gonna stop them eventually. Well, speaking of, Alba Fyre leads the way in as she & Piper Niven “scope the perimeter.” There’s one small threat. They frisk the “miniscule” threat, but nothing they haven’t dealt with before. Chelsea struts in and says, “The Eagle has landed~!” Zelina says she is so glad the “Bootleg Men in Black” have crashed the party. Now, yeah, they all know she’s small. But clearly this small “threat” is a big threat to Chelsea’s title reign. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have taken all three of them to beat her.
KC Squared agree with that. How about tonight, we see what happens when the odds are even? Chelsea says that’s fine, because Agents P & A are ready. The Secret Her-vice has been given their next mission, but will they be able to crash the party? Or will the party crash them?
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice!
SmackDown returns and The Green Administration makes their entrance. The teams sort out, Alba starts against Katana, and the two tie up. Alba KNEES low, CLUBS Katana down, then fireman’s carries. Katana fights free, tags Kayden, and they KICK, double whip, and then trip Alba up for the basement DROPKICK! Katana adds a slingshot SENTON, Kayden covers, TWO! Kayden tags Katana, they double whip Alba to a corner, then Kayden runs in. Alba DUMPS Kayden out, ROCKS Katana, and she tags Piper! Katana arm-drags Alba out, then goes out to run up. Kayden gives her a boost, Katana CROSSBODIES Alba down!
The fans fire up, but Piper goes up and out?! CANNONBALL and down goes KC Squared! Piper salutes Chelsea and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Kayden rallies on Alba while the fans rally up. Kayden fires up, runs in and whips, but Alba reverses. Kayden wheelbarrows, victory rolls, then SUPERKICKS! Kayden fires up again but the fans are torn. Kayden runs in at Alba to BOOT WASH her against the ropes! Chelsea protests, Kayden kicks at her, then Kayden springboards for a LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Alba survives, Kayden whips, but Alba KICKS back! Tag to Piper, but Kayden jackknife bridges Alba! The ref explains bout the tag, Piper runs up, but Kayden moves! The SENTON hits Alba! Piper panics, Kayden tags Katana!
Katana goes up onto Kayden’s shoulders, VICTORY ROLL LAUNCHER, but Piper catches Katana! Katana fires hands, BOOTS, and then hurries to go up again. Kayden ROCKS Piper, and fireman’s carries?! SAMOAN DROP! Kayden then gives Katana the boost, for the KEG STAND SPLASH!! Cover, ALBA BREAKS IT! Kayden runs up on Alba to BOOT her out! Katana gives Kayden the boost now, SUPER CROSSBODY onto Alba! Kayden hurries to tag back in, and she brings Piper up. Piper swings, Kayden dodges and SUPERKICKS! Katana goes up, Piper staggers over that way, but Chelsea distracts the ref!
The fans are torn as Alba grabs Katana. Katana kicks Alba down, chases Chelsea off, but Piper sends Kayden into her! Piper scoops to PIPER DRIVER!! Cover, Secret Her-vice wins!
Winner: The Secret Her-vice, by pinfall
The Women’s US Champion helps her team, and now they all mug Kayden & Katana! But here comes Zelina! Vega runs down the ramp, CLOBBERS Alba, and then she gets in the ring! Zelina tilt-o-whirl DDTS Piper! And she KNEES Alba off the apron! But Chelsea CLOBBERS Zelina! Chelsea fires up, the UK is oddly with her, and she chicken wings Zeina. But Zelina fights free to fire forearms and body shots! And a BACK ELBOW! Zelina reels Chelsea in, CODE- SUPERKICK from Alba! SENTON from Piper! The Green Administration is just too much for Zelina to fight against alone! But can she, Kayden & Katana find a way to turn things around?
WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman!
Did the Mega Star just get this title back from Shinsuke Nakamura? YEAH! Did he help the Monster of All Monsters fight off Solo Sikoa’s rouge bloodline? YEAH! And now, does he have to defend this title against the monster he just helped? YEAH!! But will Knight still reign this close to WrestleMania? Or will Braun #GetTheseHands back on a championship?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and it’s time for Knight’s biggest challenge, YEAH!
The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two circle. The two tie up, and Braun SHOVES Knight away. Knight comes back, Braun SHOVES him down again! Knight gets up, gets around, and he headlocks. Braun powers up to back suplex, but Knight lands out! Knight tries but Braun’s too big to suplex! Braun ELBOWS Knight, storms up on him, but Knight fires haymakers! Knight whips, Braun reverses, but Knight KICKS back! Knight runs, but Braun HIP TOSSES! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this, but Braun brings him up. Braun puts Knight in a corner, CHOPS, then runs, for a SPLASH! Knight sputters along ropes, Braun keeps moving, but Knight DUMPS him out!
The fans fire up as Knight then WRECKS Braun with a dropkick! Knight keeps moving, and he WRECKS Braun again! The fans fire up with Knight, but then Braun BOOTS Knight down! The fans are torn but Braun stands tall as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Braun puts Knight back in the ring. The fans cheer as Knight KICKS Braun! Knight tries again, but Braun’s still too big to back suplex! Braun CLUBS Knight, then runs in at the corner. Knight BOOTS Braun, goes up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Knight and Braun rise back up, and Knight dodges a shot to JAB! Then he dodges to JAB! JAB! JAB! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” But Braun KNEES low! Braun scoops, Knight slips free, and Knight RAMS Braun into buckles! Then the BACK SUPLEX! The fans fire up and Knight rises again! Knight spells it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO!
Braun has plenty left in the tank but the fans rally for Knight. Knight stands Braun up to kick low, but Braun THROWS Knight away! Knight rises, and Braun LARIATS Knight up and out! The fans fire up as Braun rips the shirt! Braun gets on the track, and he runs in, STROWMAN EXPRESS MEETS JACOB FATU!! The Samoan Werewolf strikes Braun down!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by disqualification; LA Knight retains the title
The fans boo as Jacob now goes after Knight! He just ruined what was becoming a great match, but Jacob fires HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT on Braun! SAMOAN DROP onto the desk!! The desk doesn’t budge, but Braun might’ve been broken in half! The UK fires up for Fatu as he puts Braun in the ring! Jacob fires more HEADBUTTS, then HEADBUTTS away on Braun in the corner! The fans sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE, FATU~, FATU~!” Jacob runs corner to corner, but Knight kicks him first! Knight fires haymakers, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Jacob denies the BFT to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! And then HIP ATTACK for Braun anyway!
Jacob keeps going, HIP ATTACK for Braun again! Jacob throws off his jacket, glares at Braun, and he runs in for a third HIP ATTACK! Braun flounders into the drop zone, so Jacob goes up, up, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Direct hit on Braun, but the fans want that “ONE MORE TIME!” Jacob obliges, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! The Samoan Werewolf just tore up #OneBigSOB and LA Knight, will there be no stopping him from taking the United States Championship?
Backstage interview with Jimmy Uso.
Jackie Redmond is with #BigJim, and she says that while she knew WWE was going global this month, she did not know they’d get the slap heard ’round the world! Jimmy says he’d do it again, and he’ll slap Gunther as many times as he needs! Jimmy knows Jey is up in his own head, doubt is creeping on him. But just because Jey’s 0-3 against Gunther doesn’t mean Gunther’s unbeatable! The Ring General CAN be got! Jimmy’s going to Raw this Monday, he will bust Gunther’s ass, Jey will go to Mania and bust Gunther’s ass to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. And then they leave Las Vegas just like this: YEET!
Jimmy heads out, but then The Miz & Carmelo Hayes walk by. Miz is mocking Jimmy’s words, and he asks excuse me. Miz says it’s just funny that suddenly, Jimmy is a tough guy, even though for most of his career, he’s been “The Other Uso.” Doesn’t Jimmy get it? Jimmy and Jey are career sidekicks while Gunther is a main character. Gunther is the lead, neither Jimmy nor Jey can beat him. And here’s another thing: The Usos are just blips on the trailer that was Roman Reigns’ Bloodline. Melo says Jimmy & Jey are stuck outside the club, they can’t even get in.
Miz says as a former WWE Champion, a former WrestleMania main eventer, Jimmy will never know what it is to carry this industry. And after this year’s WrestleMania, neither will Jey. Oh, and by the way, if Jimmy ever slapped Miz like that, Jimmy would still be on the ground. Jimmy feints the slap and Miz freaks out. Jimmy says it may be him and Gunther on Monday, but he’ll holler at Aldis real quick so it can be Jimmy VS Miz here tonight. Yeah, YEET! Jimmy heads out, Melo says he thought Miz was gonna do something about the slap. Will Miz have to do something about running his mouth before he gets his teeth kicked in?
Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga find Jacob Fatu backstage.
Solo asks Jacob what the Hell he was doing out there. Jacob goes out there alone without saying a thing to them? Jacob says he ain’t gotta say nothing to nobody! Matter fact, didn’t Solo not tap in with him last week? Tama says, “But Jacob,” only for Jacob to say, “But nothing, Tama!” Solo wants Jacob to lower his tone, but Jacob says okay. Let him be very clear with them. When it comes to Braun Strowman, Jacob WILL be the last man standing. Y’all better get in where you fit in, cuz that US title? Oh, Jacob’s bringing it home to the family. And he will do it with them, or without them! Yadada mean? Fatu heads out, is the Samoan Werewolf no longer following Solo?
Naomi speaks.
“I mean… How did we even get here? I don’t know. One thing that I do know is that I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. So Bianca, what makes you think that my attack on Jade was anything different from me doing the right thing? When I sit here and I think about all that I’ve sacrificed, all that I’ve given, and that’s what really breaks my heart. Because through all of that, I’m made to be the bad one in this situation. I just don’t understand, how does Jade come in outta nowhere and take my place with you? I want you to ask yourself this, Bianca. Who inspired you? Hmm?
“Who’s inspired women over the last decade? Who’s always had your back from day one of you being here? Me. Not Jade. Hmm. But you know what? What I’ve learned through all of this: You teach people how to treat you. And I’m done with being treated as a third wheel. I’m done being pushed to the side, I’m done with being too nice, I’m done with being undervalued, underutilized, underappreciated! So moving forward, hmm… Moving forward, here’s my message to you, Jade. If you continue to be in my way, I strongly advise you to proceed with caution.” The Glow shows her dark side, but will the storm be moved?
Nick Aldis meets with Jade Cargill.
Speaking of, the SmackDown General Manager understands things have been rather difficult for her as of late. Jade says she’s been trying to get her hands on Naomi for the past few weeks, now where is she? No one has seen her all day, so as far as anyone knows, Naomi’s not here. Well, when Jade catches Naomi, it’s on sight. Jade leaves, B-Fab & Michin are there. They let her know that what Naomi did to her was straight trash, totally uncalled for behavior. And after Jade gets her hands on Naomi, she’ll handle that business. Jade agrees. Mia says they’ve all got business to handle. Jade’s got Naomi, and Mia’s gonna get Charlotte for messing with her girl, B.
B-Fab says Naomi’s got what’s coming to her: no sympathy, no regrets. Jade, just do what you gotta do. Oh, she will. Jade also wishes Mia luck tonight. Mia & B-Fab head out, will the Head Baddie in Charge make the Queen bow down in London?
The darkness approaches.
“You are as I was. As I am, you will be.” The shadows are starting to take shape, but is SmackDown about to fade to black?
Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab!
The Queen looks down on everyone, so it’s no surprise that everyone else wants to take her down. Charlotte may have checked off B-Fab, but will the HBIC be a much different story? Or will Charlotte only sharpen her edge before facing Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania?
WAIT! NAOMI ATTACKS B-FAB & MICHIN! Naomi drags Mia up for a FACEBUSTER! Naomi rains down fists, the ref reprimands and the fans boo, but Naomi tells the ref to back off. Naomi then BOOTS B-Fab off the apron! Naomi goes out after B-Fab to THRWO her into barriers! Naomi SLAPS B-Fab, tells her to stay down, but B-Fab gets up. Naomi fires hands, then she SMACKS B-Fab off the desk! Naomi rains down fists, but here comes Jade! Jade hurries down the ramp, she runs around the way, but Naomi runs away! Jade makes sure B-Fab is okay, but refs have to help her to the back. And what of Mia? Will she even be able to compete?
Charlotte makes her entrance, not really caring about what Naomi just did to Mia. But that means she also crosses paths with Jade. The fans like the look of this stare down, but Jade and Charlotte both let the other slide. Charlotte gets her pyro, and it seems she’ll still get her match. Will Mia be little more than an appetizer now?
The bell rings, and Charlotte BOOTS Mia down! Cover, TWO! Mia stays in this and the fans rally up. Charlotte just struts around while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Charlotte has Mia down with a chinlock, but the fans rally up. Mia fights up, fires body shots, and she then blocks a shot to ROCK Charlotte! Mia ROCKS Charlotte again and again, then reels her in for a TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Mia hurries to cover, TWO! Mia drags Charlotte up, wrenches, but Charlotte says no to Da Feet! BIG back suplex! Mia stagger sup, Charlotte whips her, but Mia reverses! Charlotte goes up and out, BOOTS her away, then slingshots in and rolls Mia! Mia rolls through and BUZZSAWS! Mia runs corner to corner, but Charlotte avoids the cannonball!
Charlotte YAKUZA KICKS Mia down, then fires herself up! The fans “WOO~!” as Charlotte has Mia in the drop zone,. Charlotte steps on her, goes up the corner, but Mia gets underneath her! SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO! Charlotte survives and Mia is shocked! Mia nods as the fans rally back up, and she brings Charlotte up. But Charlotte ROCKS Mia! Mia SOBATS, PELES, and then runs to PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! Charlotte stays in this, Mia grows frustrated, but the fans continue to rally. Mia uses that energy to stay focused, and she stalks Charlotte to waistlock. But Charlotte ELBOWS her away!
Charlotte CHOPS, and CHOPS, and CHOSP! Charlotte winds up, and she CHOPS again! Mia sputters, but then she dodges the boot! Charlotte is caught, and Mia hits a SAIDO! Charlotte flounders to a corner, the fans rally behind Mia, and Mia runs up, CANNONBALL! Mia hurries to wrench and EAT- NO, Charlotte shoves Mia away! Charlotte gets under, back suplexes, but Mia lands out! EAT DA FEET!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Charlotte’s long legs help her survive by a literal foot! Mia is beside herself while Charlotte bails out. Mia storms after Charlotte, runs up, but Charlotte dodges! Mia’s kick hits steel steps!
Mia hobbles away, goes to the apron, but Charlotte CHOP BLOCKS the bad leg out! Charlotte grabs Mia’s leg, drops a KNEE on the knee, but fans chant, “We Want Tiffy!” Charlotte just steps through, FIGURE FOUR, into FIGURE EIGHT!! Mia taps, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
Charlotte got more of a fight out of Mia than expected, but she still won. Will The Queen be more than ready to reign again after WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.
Jackie Redmond is with the WWE Women’s Champion and says Charlotte certainly looks confident. Let’s be real, Charlotte came at Tiff pretty hard. It got a lot of people talking. Tiff says yes, people talk. And Charlotte sure loves to hear herself talk. Ten years into the business and Charlotte is still so insecure that she can’t let a “rookie” get a word out. But last week, Tiff did learn something: She learned that walking into WrestleMania, she isn’t the one with something to lose. Truth is, if Tiff loses, then she lost to the great Charlotte Flair, as just a 25-year-old rookie with one year into SmackDown.
But if Charlotte loses… Well, then she lost to an “undeserving, delusional, unoriginal, backflip doing, blonde-hair-having, little girl.” Did she get it all? And Tiff can’t wait to hear the look on Charlotte’s face when they hear the words, “And STILL!” Then maybe Charlotte will finally shut up for the sake of literally everyone! They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and Tiff will make damn sure what stays is Charlotte’s massive ego. Tiff is walking into and out of Mania as the WWE Women’s Champion. Tootles! Tiff heads out, will it still be #TiffyTime after WrestleMania?
Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre!
The Viper told Cody how proud he was, but also how he wants the next shot after John Cena. The Scottish Terminator took offense to that, and basically said he is taking that shot instead. Will this match be an unofficial #1 contender’s match between these two former world champions?
SmackDown returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans sing, “OH~, Drew McIntyre~!” and chant “R K O! R K O!” Drew and Orton circle, tie up, and they go around in a deadlock. Drew powers Orton to a corner, but Orton headlocks back. Drew powers up and out, then he runs Orton over! Orton hurries to ropes and Drew mockingly asks, “How’s the back feel, Randy?” Orton stands, he and Drew reset, and the fans duel some more. Drew calls for a knuckle lock, Orton accepts, but then Drew kicks low! Drew bumps Orton off buckles, then climbs up, but he panders for too long and Orton YANKS him down!
The fans fire up as Orton climbs now! Orton rains down fists, and the fans count to nine. Orton hops down, brings Drew around, and POSTS him for ten! Drew tumbles out of the ring, Orton goes out after him, and they’re by the desk! But Drew kicks Orton first and SMACKS him off the desk! Drew clears the desk, and he brings Orton up for the DESK- NO, Orton fights free! Orton turns things around, DESK BACK SUPLEX for Drew! The fans fire up while Orton leaves Drew behind, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew writhes on the floor, but Orton goes out to fetch him! Orton brings Drew around, UPPERCUTS him, then says one more time! DESK BACK SUPLEX! Drew writhes as that desk stays standing! Orton grins, refreshes the ring count, and then he storms up on Drew. Drew pokes Orton in the eye! Drew POSTS Orton now, then brings him around to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP into barriers! Orton slumps down, and Drew also grits his teeth from that double-edged attack, but Drew fires up as he stands tall. Drew drags Orton up, puts him in the ring, then stalks Orton. Drew looms over Orton, and HIP DROPS him!
Orton sputters, Drew says one more time, and he winds up for the HIP DROP! Drew paces around Orton, says maybe one more time, and he pretends he can’t hear the fans. Drew winds up again, but Orton flips over! Hip drop meets kneecaps! And then Orton pokes Drew in the eyes! The ref reprimands but Orton rises up. Drew sputters and flounders, Orton ROCKS him with a right! Drew ROCKS Orton back! Drew storms up, Orton kicks low, but Drew fires another haymaker! The haymakers go back and forth, Orton gets the edge, but Drew GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTTS! Cover, TWO! Drew clamps onto Orton with an armlock!
SmackDown returns to single picture and the fans rally up. Orton fights up, pries at the chinbar, and then throws right hands! Drew CHOPS Orton in return! The fans “WOO~” and Drew winds up. Drew ROCKS Orton again, eggs him on, then CHOPS again! Drew shoves Orton to a corner, CHOPS again, then dares Orton to fight! Drew whips corner to corner, but Orton comes back to LARIAT! And LARIAT! Drew swings, Orton dodges, SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up as Orton stalks Drew to the apron. Drew HOTSHOTS Orton first! Drew then runs in, but Orton puts him through the ropes!
The fans fire up as Orton has Drew for the DRAPING DDT! The fans fire up for Orton, and Orton hears those voices! Drew rises, but then Orton spots KEVIN OWENS! The Prizefighter is on the ramp, Orton glares at him, but then he turns around into a CLAYMORE!! Cover, DREW WINS!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
Kevin’s mere presence costs Orton, and now Drew has a huge win propelling him down the Road to WrestleMania! As for Orton, Kevin drags him out of the ring, SMACKS him off the desk, and then climbs up to join him! The fans boo but Kevin and his hot pink sneakers have Orton in position, but Orton slips free and TRIPS Kevin up! Kevin hits the desk then the floor! Orton staggers around, the fans rally behind him, and Orton stalks Kevin to the corner of the barriers. Orton lines up the shot! Orton runs in, but Kevin jumps over barriers! Security is there to stop Orton from pursuing, so Kevin runs away into the night!
The fans boo, but The Viper was that close! Will Orton be able to strike Kevin down and completely take him out?
Fire, thunder, smoke…
The force of nature is drawing ever closer. And he’s ready to fly! REY FENIX arrives next Friday Night SmackDown!
Jimmy Uso VS The Miz!
#BigJim gave Gunther a piece of his mind and a mark on his cheek, but it seems not everyone got the message. Will the Hollywood A-lister soon star in the Uso Penitentiary? Or will he prove Jimmy is NOT ready for a world champion level opponent?
The bell rings and the two tie up. Jimmy powers Miz to a corner, Miz turns things around, and the ref counts. Miz takes a swing, Jimmy ducks it to CHOP! And CHOP! Miz shoves Jimmy back, then runs up, but Jimmy TACKLES Miz! Jimmy rains down fists, Miz shoves him away to go to ropes, but Jimmy storms back up. Miz ELBOWS Jimmy away, then runs back up, only for Jimmy to LARIAT him down! The fans fire up while Jimmy storms up on Miz. Jimmy CHOPS Miz, has him in a corner, then whips corner to corner. Miz reverses, Jimmy goes up and over, then UPPERCUTS! Miz staggers back to ropes, but Jimmy is right on him.
Jimmy whips, Miz reverses and kitchen sink knees! Then basement BOOTS! The fans fire up, Miz scowls, and Miz KNEES Jimmy in the back again and again. Miz stalks Jimmy to the ropes now, and he CHOKES Jimmy! The ref counts, Miz runs, and Miz STRADDLE ATTACKS! The fans boo, but Miz runs again. Jimmy ducks the boot, then dodges a lariat! Jimmy runs up to LARIAT Miz up and out! The fans fire up and Jimmy builds speed, but Miz runs away! Jimmy smirks as he goes out the side, and UPPERCUTS Miz over the barriers! Jimmy makes sure Gunther knows he’s coming to get him, but SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and both men are down. Miz and Jimmy crawl, and Jimmy pounds the mat. The fans rally, Jimmy rises and runs up to LARIAT! And LARIAT! And mule kick! Jimmy then UPPERCUTS Miz, dodges a lariat, then SAMOAN DROPS! The fans fire up, Jimmy goes to the corner, “UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs in, but Miz puts him on the apron! Jimmy UPPERCUTS again! Jimmy climbs, leaps, but Miz gets under! Miz then waistlocks, ripcords, and MOVIE MAKER! Fans boo that blatant parody, but Miz full nelsons! Jimmy drops, victory rolls, TWO! Miz has the cover, TWO! Miz hurries to BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally up as Jimmy survives! Miz stalks Jimmy, the fans rally up more, and Miz fires a KICK! And then another KICK! The fans say “YES! YES! YES!” to the It Kicks, but then Miz winds up. Jimmy ducks the buzzsaw, Miz blocks the superkick, but the DRAGON WHIP connects! Miz rebounds to B-MOVIE KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! The parodies don’t get it done, but Miz still has his original work to fall back on. The fans rally for “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz shoves Jimmy down, then springboards, but into a SUPERKICK! Jimmy hurries up top, for the USO SPLASH!! Cover, Jimmy wins!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Miz may be a movie star, but Big Jim’s the one winning this main event! Jimmy then borrows Joe Tessitore’s headset to call out Gunther! He’s coming after dat ass on Monday! Gunther won’t be the ring general, he will be “Private Gunther,” and he will salute Big Jim! Uh, uh, YEET! Will Jimmy be the one making examples out of the World Heavyweight Champion? Or will everything come crashing down when Gunther gets his turn?
Drew McIntyre returns backstage.
And he says hey to Lewis Capaldi, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, and also a big fan of Drew’s. They’re ready to have a good night in the pub, but Jackie Redmond walks over to congratulate him on the win tonight. She was hoping to get some thoughts on that victory and what happened with Orton and Kevin. Drew says it’s alright, this is what happens. He doesn’t care about anybody else’s business, but no one gets away with screwing him over. And when no one meddles in his business, he wins! Drew called out Priest, where is he? Priest doesn’t have the balls! So time to get mad in the pubs, everyone’s invited!
Drew turns the corner, but PRIEST IS THERE! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the door, then throws him into road cases! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the trunk of a car, and then again! Or since it’s London, “the boot.” The driver complains, but Priest BODY SLAMS that guy through a table! Drew comes back to KNEE Priest low, SMACK him off the trunk, and then off the side! They go to the hood, or bonnet for UK. Drew drags Priest up, but Priest CLAWS Drew’s eyes! Priest then sends Drew SOUTH OF HEAVEN through the windshield! Priest tells security that he’s done for now. Any more jokes, Drew? Didn’t think so! RIP, jackass!
Priest leaves, the producers hurry to help Drew, and Drew’s got glass in his eye! Will that glass help Drew see why he shouldn’t piss off the Punisher?
CM Punk heads to gorilla.
He has a security detail with him, and he passes by Drew writhing in pain. Punk chuckles, then continues on. Will his contract signing with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins be just as brutal? We find out, after the break.
Nick Aldis is in the ring.
The SmackDown General Manager welcomes us back, and says it is his honor and privilege to be here in the O2 in London. Now, we all know why he and this table is here, and why additional security is here tonight. Tonight, we are here to sign a contract for a Triple Threat. Perhaps the biggest Triple Threat in the history of WrestleMania: Seth Rollins VS CM Punk VS Roman Reigns! The fans cheer all those names, and here comes the OTC! London puts the ones up, and Paul Heyman accompanies THE Tribal Chief out on stage. Roman raises his finger to the sky for the pyro, then security follows him to the ring.
SmackDown goes picture in picture as Roman’s entrance continues, and he raises his finger to the sky for the second round of pyro. Roman steps into the ring, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Heyman hands him a mic. The fans sing, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!” Roman nods, the fans cheer, and now they chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman tells London, “ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer again, and again chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman smiles, but he sees the chairs are not to his liking. Heyman makes sure to put one at the head of the table. Heyman also dusts the chair off while Roman enjoys the singing of, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!”
Roman takes a seat and says that was beautiful. The way they sing to their Tribal Chief, it’s just beautiful. The singing continues, and Heyman even joins in! Roman smiles, and he says that is what he’s talking about. That’s the OTC for you, baby! The biggest star on the planet! The OTC came here for two reasons. One: to be acknowledged; check! And two: to sign this contract. Roman does just that, and he says he’s checked both boxes. That means- “BURN IT DOWN!” Seth Rollins interrupts! The fans now sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Rollins struts out in his red wine paisley suit and conducts the O2 Choir all the way into the ring.
The fans cheer while Roman frowns, but Rollins takes the seat to Roman’s left. Rollins offers Heyman a chance to sing to this song, but Heyman frowns. Rollins chuckles, and he says the fans do have beautiful singing voices. He doesn’t know why Roman is in such a hurry to leave, though! This is their building! There’s a lot of history here! 12 years ago, they landed on the roof of this place in a helicopter! They came down those stairs over there, “ready to burn down the old guard!” They put the Undertaker down through the desk, and they were going to remake this company in their image!
Now don’t get him wrong, Rollins knows a lot has happened since then. They fought against each other, with each other, a little bit of love and a whole lot of hate. But Rollins dare says, as the fans continue to sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~,” that Rollins and Roman accomplished their mission. The fans start to chant for CM Punk, but Rollins tunes them out. Roman says, “We? We? You keep saying we. Our mission? We died a long time ago. It’s only been ME. You been here, but I done all the work! I’ve made this place what it is today! I took us to the level that we are here today! I made this place better than we found it!
“I’m the one that made us desirable to Netflix! I’m the one that took us into billion-dollar deals! Tell me, what have you done?” Rollins shouts, “I’ll tell you what I’ve done! YOU, YOU, YOU, it’s that mindset that keeps me having to screw you! You understand that? And your biggest mistake is not understanding the danger that’s right in front of us! The danger that’s right in front of you! You let the biggest snake in the world, CM Punk, into the garden! And you could’ve cut his head off at WarGames! But instead, you shook his hand. You could’ve let me finish him inside the cage at The Garden, but you didn’t. And now, I am left to do what I always do: Clean up your mess, again.”
Rollins drops his mic, picks up the pen, and signs his part. And now, here comes CM PUNK! The fans fire up and sing along with Cult of Personality, then join in on saying, “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME~!” Punk goes to the ring, but as he grabs a mic, he goes up a corner, just like he did last Friday. “I have come here to chew bubblegum and sign a contract. And I’m all outta bubblegum.” The fans cheer the Rowdy Roddy Piper reference, and Punk hops down to take his seat on Roman’s right. Punk looks over said contract, but Roman asks if Punk needs a highlighter or something. What’s he doing? Just go to page four, clause five.
Punk does as Roman says, but Roman says Punk needs to hurry, this is precious TV time. Punk reads the segment, Roman tells Heyman to just smarten Punk up. Heyman tells Punk he knows what Punk is looking for. It is in there. They’re closing the show at WrestleMania. The fans go wild hearing that! Heyman tells Punk that he gets to live his dream of dreams. CM Punk will be a WrestleMania main eventer! The fans cheer and while Roman smiles, Rollins is furious. Roman says, “One man’s dream is another man’s favor! CHECK!” Wait, this was the favor? Rollins says no! This is not something to laugh at, and Punk does not get to tear up!
Punk is NOT deserving! He does NOT deserve this! The fans boo but Rollins continues to throw a fit! Main eventing WrestleMania is SACRED, the most important thing in the world to Rollins! More than anything! Except the fact that Punk NEVER gets to main event! This is all Roman’s fault! This is all Heyman’s fault! Rollins THROWS his mic down, paces angrily, but Punk picks up the mic. The fans cheer Punk on again, and Punk stands to thank London, to thank Chicago, to thank Louisville, Kentucky, and to thank ALL the fans. As corny as it sounds, he thanks the WWE Universe who stood by him and chanted his name for TEN LONG YEARS!
Roman says hold on, hold on. Punk shouldn’t be thanking the fans! He should be thanking the Tribal Chief! It is because of Roman that Punk gets this honor! So please, take this moment, close the show with that acknowledgement! Do this the right way. The credits are already rolling as Punk kneels before Roman!? Punk smiles, and he thanks “My Tribal Chief, the holder of the ula fala, the Head of the Table, the… Big Dog? Thank you for allowing a kid from Chicago to be graced by your presence. Thank you, My Tribal Chief, for allowing me to stand in your ring. And thank you so much. Thank you, Roman Reigns, so very much.
“But because of you, I will see you in the main event of WrestleMania.” And again, Rollins is agonizing over this. Punk finishes putting his signature on the contract, and London tells him, “You Deserve It!” Punk thanks Roman again, and then says, “But that’s not the favor that I’m owed.” WHAT?! Roman looks at Heyman and Heyman can’t look him in the eye! If getting this Triple Threat made into the main event isn’t the gift of the Wise Man, then what is?!
My Thoughts:
A good SmackDown, but they pulled off quite the paradox. They made it feel like they were struggling to fill three hours, yet they also filled the show to the point where that contract signing segment was almost bleeding over the three hour mark. Ironically, part of the problem was just how excited the London crowd was for this. The superstars still wanted to enjoy the chants and songs, but that’s time SmackDown doesn’t have to spare. It made the opening promo from Cody, Orton and Drew take longer, and it kinda did the same to the contract signing at the end. Even so, we still got a very good promo, and good stuff to set up Orton VS McIntyre.
Orton VS McIntyre was a great match, but of course Kevin costs Orton. McIntyre gets his win, Kevin and Orton have a bit of a brawl, but of course Kevin ends up on the losing end and runs off. McIntyre’s trash talk also comes back to bite him as Priest gets the better of him in their brawl. Here’s hoping Drew didn’t actually get glass in his eye, but that being the thing in kayfabe can be some good stuff. I can imagine McIntyre with an eyepatch, and he takes it off at the opportune time to get the better of Priest in their match. Also what a fitting choice for Punk to be passing by Drew suffering because of real glass.
Very good title matches tonight, but of course the status quo was kept. Pretty Deadly gets to look great here in London, but the Profits only just got the belts, they’re not going to be transitional champions like that. And Knight VS Braun was really good stuff, but honestly, Jacob Fatu going after them both should’ve been a given. Jacob also had a great promo with Solo & Tama to start adding to that divide between Jacob and Solo. I would hope Solo doesn’t screw Jacob out of the US Championship, but it feels like he will as Solo won’t stand for Jacob defying his authority, even though Solo’s been trying to make Jacob the champion all along.
Very good stuff from Jimmy Uso tonight, from his promo with #MeloDon’tMiz and then a great match with Miz. Their match ended up the de facto main event match, so that’s also great for both guys. Great win for Jimmy, but that’s likely because Jimmy is losing big time to Gunther on Monday. And it might just be me, but it feels like only now is the Jey VS Gunther build really moving, largely in part because Jimmy got involved. Jimmy’s promo after his match is something along the lines of what Jey should be saying. But I suppose as brothers, Jimmy is the one who knows Jey best and knows what Jey needs to be motivated again. And seeing Jimmy get beat up by Gunther will definitely motivate Jey…
Good final vignettes for Rey Fenix and Aleister Black. I’m a little surprised they confirmed Rey Fenix is showing up next week, and that they confirmed who Rey Fenix even is. I believe commentary confirmed Rey Fenix is Penta’s real brother, even namedropped “Lucha Brothers,” but all that is still surprising considering Fenix is going to start on SmackDown. Aleister’s vignette (at least I am fairly confident it’s his) was giving us glimpses of his silhouette, but I think there was usage of AI in the snake imagery. It was fine they did it for El Grande Americano because that is all trolling, but they really should try and do things the old fashioned way of photoshop and stock imagery.
Very good stuff in the Women’s Division tonight, though the WWE Women’s Championship portion was the weaker. Naomi’s got a great Heel persona going, her promo was great, and her going after B-Fab & Michin over them supporting Jade was a great detail. Jade runs Naomi off, helps B-Fab, but there was no helping Michin in being fed to Charlotte. Tiffany had a decent promo, and it does fit how Charlotte kept her from speaking so she finally gets things out here. It didn’t really add that much, though, but they already gave us a great brawl so not sure what more they can give.
KC Squared VS The Secret Her-vice was a very good match, but of course Chelsea made sure her team won. A Six Woman Tag of Zelina & KC Squared VS The Green Administration is certainly coming, to help give us Zelina VS Chelsea for the Women’s US Championship.
My Score: 8.7/10
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!
Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 3.27.2025
Bad news out of the TNA management side, but this is a taped episode from El Paso! So we won’t see any of the fallout just yet!
Now we all heard the news about the TNA change in hierarchy, and I…have no positive outlook on that. Delirious sucked at booking and creative in the dying days of ROH before it got bought as a B show. Dreamer having even more control is concerning because his ideas the last two years haven’t been much better.
Gail leaving makes more sense to me. Be it firing or a “you can’t quit, you’re fired” kind of situation, the Knockouts division is the worst it’s been in a long time and Gail was close with Scott D’Amore. So I don’t think Gail parting ways is as big of a problem since TNA has slowly been bleeding out with the Scott faithful.
Granted, I think the next few shows were already taped before the firing so things shouldn’t be completely unwatchable for at least a week or two. So let’s see where we’re going.
.@WeAreRosemary sends @XiaBrookside a CHILLING message!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/srciTTbel0
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Ratings:
- Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge: Ash wins via Rarefied Air – ** 1/4
- Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr: Chavo wins via Gory Bomb into Frog Splash – *** 1/4
- Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich: Masha wins via Russian Death Device – ***
- Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin: Eric wins via Piledriver – ** 1/2
- Seto & Mokuba – I mean – Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater: Nic wins via Danger Zone – *** 1/4
Results:
Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge
Ash and Gigi start off, Gigi with a little Rascalz after her first takedown. So both her and Wentz are making it obvious something’s going on between them, and I’m not mad at it. Good for my man Wentz.
Tatum and Gigi get some quick tandem offense in, Ash does manage to scurry off to a tag and Heather gets bent into a Pretzel. Some kind of Inverted Tarantula from Tatum, Gigi tags in, Bronco Buster on Heather followed by Kawada Kicks. Heather sells against the ropes, Gigi goes for a Hesitation Dropkick, but Concierge pulls her away so Gigi crashes and burns. Ref is distracted, Ash gets in some cheap shots and then the Elegant duo starts working over Gigi. A few quick tags, but once Heather comes in, Gigi fights out of the corner, gets the hot tag to Tatum. Tatum stacks up both Elegance members, Corner Stacked Crossbody, Butterfly Suplex and an Elbow Drop with some some flare. Tatum goes to the top rope, Heather pulls Gigi off the apron, Concierge shoves Tatum off the turnbuckle and Ash hits Rarefied Air for the win.
Post match the Elegance Clique wants to make their wish with the cake, they light the candles and Tatum and Gigi recover enough to do what we all expected last week, the cake in the face spot. Some…suggestive licking from both of our Hot Topic Hotties, so…no complaints here.
.@Ashamae_Sebera, @Heathereckless and @IamGeorgeIceman are having a meltdown!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/FnKwPqm2ff
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr
Chavo and Kaz start since he’s King Petty, a quick rope run turns into a Headscissor from Chavo. Kaz recovers, they lock up, Kaz hits the Knee Lift during the lock up to tag out to KC. KC pulls off some athletic dodges, gloats a bit so Chavo waits, measures and nails a gorgeous Dropkick. Laredo comes in on fire, quick high spots that send KC bouncing around like HBK against Hulk. KC powders after sells the Satellite Takedown, AJ checks on him and we go to commercial.
Back from commercial, Octagon is lighting up KC’s chest with overhand chops, he perches, Sunset Headscissor Flip from corner to corner, KC tries to Back Drop him but Octagon does a headstand, kicks KC away and lays him out with a high spot. AJ gets on the apron to stop Octagon from running the ropes, the referee has a stroke or something because he stops paying attention and AJ pulls Octagon out of the ring and chucks him. KC with the Tope con Hilo and tag (tag ropes haven’t mattered since the 80s we all know this). So AJ is getting taunted by the crowd in Spanish, but he’s manhandling Octagon since it looks like a Child fighting their parent. AJ knocks off Chavo and Laredo, Laredo pops up and tries to get involved but he’s caught on the shoulders, Octagon goes for the Crossbody but gets caught and AJ pulls off “World’s Strongest Wasteland” but Chavo breaks up the pinfall. AJ throws Octagon into the corner, Tennessee Whiskey, and tag out to KC. KC hits a few moves, but starts to lose the momentum until he connects with a Super Kick. Simultaneous rope run into the Dueling Crossbodies, so we get the timely tag outs from both sides. Kaz and Laredo come in, Laredo lands like two moves before Kaz hits a Sole Butt, Lariat and eats his lunch. KC and Kaz try to double team Laredo but he fights out and the crowd is chanting for Chavo.
Chavo tags in, and he’s rocking KC, Saito Suplex, Low Bridge to AJ, Reverse the Whip so Chavo goes to the corner and perches, KC feeds, Chavo Backflips to safety, rolls through and lays out KC. Chavo is feeling himself, 3 Amigos start on KC but only 2, Kaz comes in and Chavo switches to Kaz for the Amigos, only 2 again before AJ breaks it up. AJ goes for the disrespect, but Chavo counters and hits the 3 Amigos on the biggest Culero. Aztec Warriors dive to stop AJ and Kaz, KC tries a Dirty Victory Roll but Chavo kicks out. GORY BOMB into FROG SPLASH!
Chavo looked fantastic and he’s the one in the best shape in the ring. I wouldn’t be mad at more Chavito.
Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich
I expect very little from this match.
Collar and Elbow, gator rolling for the first 30 seconds or so, then Jacy goes to some Hair Pull takedowns and does a little taunt before Masha pops back up and hits a Lariat into a Dive. Jacy sells it like she’s really hurt, even the ref tries to hold Masha back a little before Masha gets annoyed and just grabs her, Masha throws her in, looks for a Dive and Jacy sees it and powders. Masha tries to go back to the well for the Dive again but Jacy hits the Uppercut and then an Apron Run PK to drop Masha. Forearms rain down into a Foot Choke as Jacy continues to arrogantly play to the crowd. Another Foot Choke into a Cannonball, and near fall.
Masha gets space with a Sole Butt, tries to snap off Requiem but Jacy fights off, fights through a Sunset Flip another effective PK keeps Masha on her ass. Jacy looks for a kinda half-assed Camel Clutch as Masha is fighting up, but Jacy runs her into the corner, gets distracted mouthing off to the crowd, so Masha recovers, 5 Hole Up Kick sends Jacy into the corner, Yakuza Kick into Capo Kick for two. Requiem attempt again, but Jacy pushes off, a little back and forth, Masha tries a Backslide but Jacy gets away and hits a V-Trigger but only a 2 count. Jacy looks for the Discus Punch but Masha ducks it, they strike back and forth, but some dodges from both leave the exchange more even. Jacy with the Front Kick to the face sends Masha to the outside. Jacy wants another PK, but Masha blocks, Electric Chair Apron Snake Eyes. Masha throws her in, a PK into a near all. Requiem attempt 3, and thwarted from Jacy with a Superkick into a Neckbreaker. Senton misses from Jacy, Buzzsaw Kick, into Spinning Back Kick and Russian Death Device for the win.
Better than I expected, and Tessa attacks as soon as the bell rings. Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Li make the save after Tessa grabs the belt.
Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin
Ace and Eric tie up, World of Sport start but as soon as Ace starts to get away EY punches him in the face. Eric looks at the camera and says “This is what trust looks like”, turns his back on Ace, when Ace looks to attack, the loser duo cut him off. EY takes advantage of the weird situation, but Ace with some Up and Over quick spots, into an Inside Cradle and La Magistral. EY kicks out of the quick flash attempts, but eats a Dropkick, and Ace goes all Speed Kils on him with fast strikes and then a face buster for another near fall. Strike spot very early in the match, Ace gets the best of it, goes for a Tear Drop Suplex but EY sits on it to block, Headlocks to keep him close and then a snap Lariat into beatdown bully tactics. EY takes the referee’s attention and one of the nerds punch Ace in the face.
Eric tries to lean on Ace, but Ace fires, a few strikes, Click Click Boom, the Miz Seated Lariats in the corner, Mochizuki Triangle Kick connects! Only a 2 count, but Ace seems to be in control. Ace puts EY on the ropes, a few strikes to keep him rocked, wants a Superplex, but EY blocks, bites the face and Macho Elbow gets a very close two count. EY tries the Piledriver but Ace turns it into a Jacknife Cradle,Spinning Heel Kick, calls for The Fold, but the losers hop on the apron to distract, Ace attacks them. Ace tries to time out the Triangle Kick again, but Eric dodges, throws Ace head first through the buckles. As Ace stumbles out of the corner, Piledriver, and it’s over.
Oh look it’s the “we’ll hear from Joe Hendry” segment. Again, I’ve loved this gimmick since Day 1, even didn’t hate his What Culture Pro stuff, but there is such a thing as milking a cow too much.
Elijah interrupts the whole “Who’s next” speech. When Elijah comes out he says he’s not the challenger and he believes in Joe. The crowd wants Elijah to turn on Hendry. Elijah pauses for a moment, and starts proving his friendship with stating his favorite color and a little “You Got a Friend in Me”. The crowd is into singing along and waving their cameras like Lighters to a 30 year old song. THANKFULLY Kaz breaks up the hug fest. Now he gets the “Culero” chant.
Kaz pulls out a Bass…what the hell is this Jam Session. Kaz has to warm up so he plays “La Cucaracha” on the bass. Kaz…is a national treasure. Hendry kicks Kaz out of the ring after his Heelish and playfully racially charged song choices. Kaz tries to sow dissension, but Joe and Elijah pinball Kaz between them. Kaz slips a power move and tries to shove Elijah into Joe but Elijah puts the brakes on, a small tense moment. But then Joe and Elijah play “Nah Nah Nah Nah, Hey Hey, Goodbye”…and that goes right into a commercial. Oddly…perfect.
Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater
Nic shoots the half immediately for a flash pinfall but Leon kicks out at one. Nic continues to keep things grounded with his amateur wrestling skills, and then does a little Dolph Ziggler show off. So Nic isn’t really taking this seriously, and Leon starts getting the best of things with an Arm Wringer, into drag, Shoulder Tackle and rope run as Nic tries to Leap Frog and Leon puts on the brakes and just shoves Nic on his ass. Nic gets annoyed, a few strikes, grinds his face along the ropes, but Leon keeps stringing some offense together, Back Handspring Elbow into his Corner con Hilo.
Ahh the classic formula of the commercial gives the heel the advantage, Twisting Suplex from Leon stops Nic’s offense momentum, right hand, Leon lifts Nic up for something, Nic slips it, kicks him in the gut, looks for the FameAsser, but Leon catches him into a Blue Thunder Bomb variation. Slater wants the Swanton 450, but Nic powders. Leon tries to adjust into a Dive, but Nic cuts him off, counter for counter and a FameAsser out of the counters for a two count. Nic starts the big brother tactics, bootwashes and arrogance, Slater fires, punches into a Yakuza Kick. Leon wants another Lethal Injection variant, but Nic catches him into a Rear Naked Choke. Slater tries to turn it into a pin so Nic breaks it. Leon wants a Leg Lariat but misses and gets unceremoniously dropped by Nic. Nic puts Leon up on the buckles, Superplex possibly but Slater counters, tries to collect himself for a move, but Nic falls into the ropes to crotch Leon, and finally hits the Superplex.
Twist of Slate from Leon, Swanton 450 but knees get up. Locomotion Cradles from both but they kick out, Ryan picks the ankle to trip up Leon just a touch and then Danger Zone ends the match.
Ryan starts the post match beatdown, but the Hardy’s music hits and they come down to the ring for the save. Matt challenges the Nemeths for Rebellion because they’re not medically cleared yet.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Decent story motion, no match was offensive, and there was actually some solid match action for television standards. I don’t have a ton to complain about aside from the Knockouts Division is in a weird spot, and giving Hendry a lot of just talking and hollow payoff segments feels stupid. If we need to hear from him every week, give him a talk segment like Highlight Reel or something. Yes I know First Class just got The Penthouse, but if Hendry is going to talk more than wrestle, give him a talk segment for us to sink our teeth into.
There was the announcement that Xia, Lei Ying and Masha will face Tessa, Jacy and a mystery partner. So you gotta wonder if there’s going to be another NXT mercenary, a surprise return or if it’ll just be Rosemary since she’s got her issues with Xia. Also I just realized that Unbreakable is going to be on a Thursday, seemingly after iMPACT? I’m gonna have to see how they do it, because if there’s an Impact episode and 2-3 hour PLE…I do not want to be awake until 1am. People need to work, and I will be Unwakeable if things go that long.
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!
4 Corners Podcast: March Madness Bracket Breakdown
This week on 4 Corners Podcast we break down the Men's NCAA tournament bracket. Which of the top seeds will...
4 Corners Podcast- The Fantastic Four Nations Faceoff
The guys discuss Canada's big win in the Four Nations Faceoff and take a look at some early Spring Training...
Oblong Ball Foot Show: One For The Road
The Philadelphia Eagles are Super Bowl Champions! Tune in as we recap an excellent NFL season and touch on a...
Oblong Ball Foot Show: Super Bowl LIX Preview
The culmination of a season long journey is upon us. Andrew, Rey and Tunney break it all down for you...
The Front and Center Sports Podcast – NFL Conference Championships and Jimmy Butler
The Chairshot presents a new episode of The Front and Center Sports Podcast, with an NFL Conference Championship preview, and...
Bandwagon Nerds #281: Vengeful Abomination
This week the NERDS discuss Episode 4 of Daredevil Born Again and Villain Madness continues with the first round of...
Mitchell’s Hyrule Puro-Resu News Report! (3/23/25)
Countdown to the Anniversary!
Attitude Of Aggression #304- Game Gone Wrong?- Part 1: When the Game was Great!
In Part 1, before getting to Season 8, the guys look back at the greatest moments from the first 7...
Mitchell’s Hyrule Puro-Resu Results & Report! (3/21/25)
One step away from glory!
Bandwagon Nerds #280: The Rich And Powerful
This week the NERDS discuss the Season 3 finale of Invincible, episode 3 of Daredevil Born Again and the continuation...
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (3/28/25)
SmackDown in the UK!
DWI Podcast #469: Superplex Sunday
Will John Cena win the WWE Title and retire at Wrestlemania?
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 3.27.2025
Bad news out of the TNA management side, but this is a taped episode from El Paso! So we won't...
Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (3/27/25)
Is there a new Minion in town?
Mitchell’s WWE Evolve Results & Report! (3/27/25)
Evolve enters the Fourth Dimension!
POD is WAR: It All Goes Back To The Spinner Belt
Andrew Balaz, Rey Cash and PC Tunney invite you to come along on a trip inside the minds of Los...
Mitchell’s AEW Dynamite Results & Report! (3/26/25)
ThunderStorm is TIMELESS!
Greg DeMarco Show: No Stipulation Needed
CM Punk vs Seth Rollins vs Roman Reigns? Are you buying this as a WWE WrestleMania 41 match? Does it...
Mitchell’s WWE NXT Results & Report! (3/25/25)
La Primera Double Header!
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (3/24/25)
ADRENALINE! IN GLASGOW!
