Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (5/12/23)
The Tribal Chief returns!

Who will be ACKNOWLEDGED?
SmackDown holds their part of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament, and the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, makes his return! What will the WWE Universal Champion have to say about The Bloodline’s victory at Backlash?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE World Heavyweight Championship Tournament Triple Threat: AJ Styles VS Rey Mysterio VS Edge; Styles wins and advances to tonight’s main event.
- WWE World Heavyweight Championship Tournament Triple Threat: Bobby Lashley VS Austin Theory VS Sheamus; Lashley wins and advances to tonight’s main event.
- Cameron Grimes VS Baron Corbin; Grimes wins.
- WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez VS Bayley & Dakota Kai w/ Iyo Sky; Liv & Raquel win and retain the titles.
- WWE World Heavyweight Championship Tournament SmackDown Finals: AJ Styles VS Bobby Lashley; Styles wins and advances to Night of Champions.
PLAY BY PLAY
WWE World Heavyweight Championship Tournament Triple Threat: AJ Styles VS Rey Mysterio VS Edge!
What a phenomenal way to open SmackDown! Seth Rollins waits on the other side of the bracket, and three men he’s very familiar with are starting off this side of the bracket! Who takes the first spot in the SmackDown finals?
The bell rings, the three circle, and Rey fires off on Edge! Styles joins in, fans boo, but then Styles hits Rey. Styles whips Rey to a corner, runs in, but into an elbow! Rey goes up, Electric Chair lift and sunset flips, but Styles rolls through, only for Edge to O’Conner Roll! TWO and Edge runs into Rey’s cradle! TWO, and all three men stand off, but only for a second before Edge BOOTS Styles right down! Edge ROCKS Rey and then goes back for Styles. Edge stomps Styles, then goes back to Rey. Fans rally for Edge as he ROCKS Rey, then whips him corner to corner. Edge runs in, Rey puts him on the apron and GAMANGIRIS!
Rey HOTSHOTS Edge, but then Styles trips Rey. Styles lifts Rey but Edge slingshots! SUNSET CATAPULT COMBO! But styles rolls through to CATAPULT Edge onto Rey! And then Styles runs in, but Edge FLAPJACKS him onto Rey! EDGE-O-MATIC! Cover, TWO! Styles stays in this but Edge keeps focus. Edge throws forearms, fans rally up, and Edge whips Styles corner to corner. Styles hits hard and falls back, then Edge runs to BOOT Rey out of the ring. Fans rally up and Edge goes back to Styles. Styles fires off the Phenomenal Blitz! LARIAT, then SLIDING FOREARM! But Rey returns and shoulders into Styles.
Rey runs, but into a scoop and BACKBREAKER! Styles stans but Edge kicks him low! Edge whips, Styles reverses but Edge holds ropes. Styles clotheslines Edge up and out! Styles goes to Rey now, whips him corner to corner, but Rey goes up and over, tilt-o-whirls and RANAS! But Edge returns! Rey dodges him to tilt-o-whirl and RANA him, too! Fans fire up but Styles kicks Rey. Styles runs, sunset flips, but Rey slips through to BUZZSAW! Rey has the fans fired up but Edge grabs Rey. Rey ELBOWS Edge, springboards, but into Edge’s arms! Edge BOOTS Styles, then FALL AWAY SLAMS Rey!
Rey and Styles are in one corner and fans fire up as Edge looks over. Edge goes to the other corner, and he takes aim! But Rey & Styles KICK Edge first! Rey kicks Styles, wheelbarrows Edge, Edge throws Rey but Rey RANAS Styles! Rey kicks Edge, hops on, SUNSET BOMB! Cover, TWO!! Edge flops to the apron, fans rally up, and Rey goes after Styles. Rey fires forearms, whips him to ropes, but Styles reveres. Rey slides under, Styles mule kicks. Styles whips, Rey slides, into Edge’s arms! But then Styles WRECKS Edge into giving Rey a DRAPING DDT! Fans fire up as all three men are down and SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns, Styles and Rey are at the ropes, and Styles suplexes Rey up and over, only for Rey to slip free and land safe on the apron. They brawl with forearms and haymakers, but then Edge SPEARS them both to the floor!! Fans lose their minds and the ref checks all three men! Rey staggers up first, Edge follows him, and Edge puts Rey into the ring. Edge covers, TWO!! Rey is still in this and Edge is beside himself. Rey crawls, Edge stalks him then stomps him into a corner. Styles slowly rolls into the ring but Edge stomps Rey more. Edge sees Styles, storms over, but Styles to sees him out hard!
Styles staggers but Rey walks up to him. Rey throws forearms, then an ENZIGURI! Styles goes to a corner, Rey runs in, but Styles catches him! Roll and CALF CRUSHER! Rey endures, but Edge joins in with a CROSSFACE! Rey endures two submissions, and Styles fights Edge! Edge lets Rey go, but then HEADBUTTS away on Styles! Rey gets free completely now, and Styles gives Edge some HEADBUTTS! They both throw haymakers, the fans are with Edge, and Edge gets around Styles, but Rey leaps in to DOUBLE RANA! Edge and Styles are both on ropes, so Rey dials it up, to run into a DOUBLE DROPKICK!
Edge and Styles get up, they DOUBLE LARIAT each other down! “This is Awesome!” as all three men are down! Rey crawls, Edge stirs, and Styles sits up. Rey goes after Styles with a KICK to the leg! Rey whips Styles to ropes, but Styles reverses. Rey dodges, comes back, and DROPKICKS Styles down! Rey keeps moving, but Edge BOOTS him down! Styles returns, he runs in but Edge sends him into buckles! Edge crawls over to where Styles is, then drags himself up the corner. But Rey ROCKS Edge first! Rey climbs, fires forearms, then positions things just right. Rey goes up, but Styles CLUBS Rey first!
Styles brings Rey out, RUNNING POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO!! Rey survives, he and Styles are both down, but Styles sits up first. Styles goes back to Edge and fans rally up. Styles throws haymakers on Edge, climbs up after him, and CLUBS him into position. But Rey CLUBS Styles! Rey climbs up, SUNSET FLIP SUPERPLEX COMBO!!! Cover on Styles, TWO!!! Styles survives and Rey is shocked! Rey calls his shot, he dropkicks Edge onto the ropes, and Rey dials, only for Styles to trip him up! Styles aims now, springboards, but Edge gets under! Edge runs in, styles avoids the Spear but the SEATED SENTON hits!
Rey sees Edge on ropes, dials it up, but Edge blocks the 619! Step through, into the EDGE-U-CATOR!! Rey endures, Edge leans on the hold, but Styles rises! Styles rushes in, Edge drops Rey to get Styles! Edge puts Styles in the EDGE-U-CATOR!! Styles endures, claws his way forward, and he’s in the ropes! But Rey hits a 619 on Edge!!! Rey goes up top, FROG SPLASH SPEAR!? Edge counters just in time, but the PHENOMENAL FOREARM flies in!! Cover, STYLES WINS!
Winner: AJ Styles, by pinfall (advances to later tonight)
And that was a phenomenal finish to this match! Styles is in it to win it, but who meets him from the second Triple Threat? Well, why wait?
WWE World Heavyweight Championship Tournament Triple Threat: Bobby Lashley VS Austin Theory VS Sheamus!
Talk about an all mighty FIGHT NIGHT! The Rocky Mountain Machine was robbed at Backlash by the still WWE United States Champion, but he could get his revenge while also getting closer to new gold! Will Lashley, Theory or the Celtic Warrior join Styles in tonight’s main event?
SmackDown returns and Lashley makes his entrance, followed by The Now, Austin Theory. The bell rings, and Theory bails out? Fans boo but he shrugs. But then Sheamus and Lashley go out to get him! They keep him from running away, and they just batter him down! Fans fire up and Sheamus pushes Theory back in. Theory hurries to a corner, only for Lashley to RAM into him! Lashley turns Theory for a NECKBREAKER! Sheamus drops a KNEE on Theory, then fireman’s carries. ROLLING SENTON! Lashley runs to clothesline Theory right out of the ring! Fans fire up now that it’s between the Fella and the All Mighty.
Lashley swings, misses, the haymakers fly, but Lashley clinches. Sheamus fights free, fireman’s carries, but Lashley slips out to FLATLINER! Sheamus goes to a corner, Lashley RAMS into him now! Lashley throws back elbows over and over, then runs corner to corner, to RAM into Sheamus again! Sheamus sputters and goes along the ropes, but Lashley stays on him. Lashley ROCKS Sheamus, runs, but into a scoop! POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! Lashley is tough but Sheamus is mean, he CLOBBERS Lashley from behind! Sheamus drags Lashley up but Lashley shoulders into him! Lashley then suplexes!
Sheamus fights, throws body shots, then wrenches to HOTSHOT! Sheamus CLUBS Lashley on the back, turns him around, but Theory runs in! Sheamus moves aside so Theory CLOBBERS Lashley off the apron, and then Sheamus grabs Theory! Sheamus ROCKS Theory, turns him around, and gives Theory the BEATS OF THE BODHRAIN! Fans count along, Sheamus goes to TEN, and Theory flops down! Fans fire up with Sheamus while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again and Lashley runs in to CLOBBER Theory outside the ring! Fans fire up and Lashley brings Theory up to fireman’s carry. Lashley POSTS Theory and fans fire up more! Lashley sees Sheamus in the ring and the two stare down again. Lashley gets back in the ring, he and Sheamus circle, and fans rally up as the two start throwing hands! They go back and forth, harder and harder, and it’s just a scrum! Sheamus throws body shots, whips, but Lashley reverses. Sheamus KNEES Lashley away, runs, but into a LARIAT! Lashley is feeling it and the fans fire up. Lashley runs corner to corner, but into BOOTS!
Sheamus skins the cat to the top rope! Lashley staggers up, and Sheamus FLYING- NO! Lashley catches Sheamus for an OVERHEAD Belly2Belly! Lashley stalks Sheamus, full nelsons, but Sheamus fights it off! Theory somersaults and SHOTGUNS! Then he CHOP BLOCKS Sheamus! And DECKS him with a forearm! Cover, Lashley breaks it up! Lashley drags Theory up, he fires off haymakers, then he whips Theory to a corner. Lashley runs in, into a BOOT! Theory somersaults again, to SLINGBLADE! Cover, Sheamus breaks it now. Theory RAMS Sheamus into the corner, then stomps away! Theory digs his boot in while fans boo.
Theory sees Lashley get up, so he clotheslines him out! Payback for earlier, and then Theory goes out after him. Theory RAMS Lashley right into steel steps! Fans boo but Theory soaks it all up. Theory sees Sheamus stirring in the ring, he slingshots and somersaults, but into an IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! Fans fire up as Sheamus grins. Sheamus watches Theory rise, and Theory sees he’s in a bit of trouble. Theory rushes in but Sheamus CLOBBERS him! And CLOBBERS him again! Then CLOBBERS him in a corner! Sheamus whips corner to corner to clothesline and fireman’s carry! Sheamus goes up the corner!
Fans fire up as Sheamus tucks Theory, for the SUPER WHITE NOISE!! Cover, TWO!! Theory survives and Sheamus grows frustrated. Sheamus looms over Theory, gives Theory his last rites, and reels him in for a Canadian Rack! Theory sunset flips out of the cross, TWO!! Sheamus KNEES Theory in the face! Theory sputters away and fans fire up again! Sheamus hears the Volunteers, and they all echo “BROGUE! BROGUE! BROGUE!” But Lashley SPEARS Sheamus! But Theory POSTS Lashley!! Theory covers Sheamus, TWO!! Theory doesn’t steal it like he did at Backlash and that shocks him more than anything!
Theory hurries to get Lashley, but Lashley swings on him! Theory dodges, ROCKS him, then fireman’s carries! A-TOWN- NO! Lashley fights out, then MILE HIGH SPINEBUSTERS!! Fans fire up as a bloodied Lashley hauls Theory up! HURT LOCK!! Theory pushes off the ropes but that’s not enough! He tries again, still not enough! Sheamus BROGUES Theory!! Lashley TOSSES Sheamus and he covers Theory, Lashley wins!!
Winner: Bobby Lashley, by pinfall (advances to later tonight)
True redemption from Backlash as Lashley beats Theory the way Theory beat him! But if the All Mighty bleeds, does that mean Styles stands a chance?
Adam Pearce talks with someone on the phone.
How great is the main event? Think about it: AJ Styles VS Bobby Lashley, two former WWE World Champions, and the winner goes on to Night of Champions. This couldn’t have worked out any better. What a main event! But in walks Grayson Waller! Pearce says bye to the person on the phone to say hello to the SmackDown draft pick. Waller, congrats on coming to SmackDown. Waller says SmackDown should be congratulated for picking Waller. Even though it was a little late, but Pearce can make it up to him. Whoever wins tonight in the main event, Styles or Lashley, you put them in the hotseat on the SmackDown debut of the Grayson Waller Effect! That’s viral, right?
Pearce actually agrees, that’s a great idea. It is official! Waller loves it! He can get used to being on Fridays. But then, will Waller’s SmackDown debut be phenomenal or all mighty?
Cameron Grimes VS Baron Corbin!
Speaking of the SmackDown draft picks from NXT, the Cash Money Caveman of Carolina is here to make his in-ring debut, all because the Lone Wolf had to call him “Mr. Irrelevant.” Will Grimes show Corbin just who’s irrelevant here tonight?
But then Corbin gets a mic to say, “Look everybody, it’s Cameron Grimes, SmackDown’s very last pick in the draft.” Corbin is surprised Grimes even showed up. That takes gut all on its own. And Corbin gets it, Grimes is trying to make a name for himself. But in about two minutes, Grimes will be flat on his back, wishing he was back in NXT. Corbin chuckles, the bell rings, and Grimes hits the CAVE-IN!!! Cover, GRIMES WINS!!
Winner: Cameron Grimes, by pinfall
Forget two minutes, that wasn’t even 10 seconds! Corbin loses because he stuck his foot in his mouth, will Grimes go #ToTheMoon here on SmackDown?
Roman Reigns heads to the ring!
The University of Tennessee cheers since The Tribal Chief is actually here! He leads the way for Paul Heyman, Solo Sikoa & The Usos as they stand on stage. The WWE Universal Championship is raised, as are the fingers, for the pyro to go off. But what will the Head of the Table have to say about all things Bloodline? We find out, after the break.
SmackDown returns and the Bloodline has moved into the ring. Roman lifts the belts for the second round of pyro, and the Bloodline raise the fingers. Heyman has the mic, The Bloodline revels in the cheers and jeers for a moment, and then Heyman hands the mic over to Roman. Roman says, “Knoxville, Tennessee! ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” Fans are torn, but plenty chant for “ROMAN! ROMAN!” Roman continues with, “Y’see, that’s what greatness garners. It garners respect. But regardless of reactions or not, this is one thing that must be respected.
“There’s a lot of talk about royal families and families of importance in the wrestling business here, but let’s be honest: there’s only one. Every man in this ring, every man in this ring main evented both nights of WrestleMania. And I know you’re probably saying we’ve only done two nights for so long, but, let’s just say this. We’re the only ones that will ever main event both nights of WrestleMania. And the success, it doesn’t stop there, we just kept pushing along into Backlash. Even when the Tribal Chief isn’t there, somebody’s gotta step up. And who stepped up this time, huh? Solo stepped up!”
Fans are torn again as Roman looks at The Enforcer of the Island. Roman says he must admit, “There was a little concern when we first got Solo up here on the road, because let’s be honest, he’s in the ring with some of the best of all time. Excuse me, not some of the best, the best of all time. And when you get thrown into the deep end, you can either sink or you can swim. And let’s be honest, Solo swims like a shark. If there’s every a problem, he eliminates it. Look at the Riddle problem. Handled, right?” Solo nods, but he brings up Kevin and Sami. That’s how good Solo is! He’s still concerned with that problem!
Roman tells Solo that Kevin and Sami- But then the fans start chanting for “SAMI! SAMI!” and “KEVIN! KEVIN!” Roman says not to worry about that anymore. Those two aren’t a problem. They’re not the problem. But there is a problem. A real problem, an actual problem, but it is not Sami & Kevin. “The problem… are your brothers.” Fans are stunned and the Usos aren’t sure how to react to that. Roman walks over to Jey & Jimmy, and he asks what they thought was going to happen. That they were gonna lose in the main event of WrestleMania and no one talks about it? That they were gonna beg for a rematch and then dedicate it to him for some reason, and then lose?
You dedicate a match to Roman and then you lose!? Roman’s not attached to the tag titles, why are they dedicating something like that to him!? He’s not IN a tag team, he’s the greatest singles wrestler of all time! “We literally have Hall of Fame tag teams in our family, and you dedicate it to me? You disrespect our bloodline and dedicate a tag team championship match to me?” The Usos aren’t sure what to say but Roman says he tried to take some time off, and what do the Usos do? They embarrass him! They misrepresent him, the Bloodline, and the family! They know better than this. APOLOGIZE!
Fans say “NO! NO! NO!” but the Usos look at each other. Roman says don’t look at each other, look at him and apologize! Roman tells the Usos that he doesn’t want anything to come out of their mouth unless it is “I’m sorry” or “I apologize, My Tribal Chief.” The Usos still aren’t sure, and Jimmy starts to chuckle. Roman doesn’t like that, but then the fans are even louder with the “NO! NO! NO!” Roman says he wouldn’t listen to the “idiots.” He’d just apologize. Roman gets closer to Jimmy and says he’d listen up and apologize. Jimmy says this is too much. Oh, so Roman’s just here to make them smile? Are they doing their Goodfellas commercial again?
Roman is here to pop Jimmy, he’s a clown now? He pie faces Jimmy as he asks, “Who’s the clown?” Fans boo and Jimmy scowls. Roman dares him to do something. Heyman gets out of the ring just in case… Fans chant “WHOOP SOME ASS!” But then Jey steps up, to apologize for them both. “We apologize, Uce. Alright?” But if Roman gives them one more shot, they’ll bring those titles back to the Bloodline. Roman says that’s right, those titles will come back to the Bloodline. “Wise Man, fill ’em in.” Heyman returns to the ring, takes the mic back and thanks Roman.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the Tribal Chief has shown up here tonight with a game plan already in hand. The Tribal Chief, this week, authorized me to pull every string, to flex our Bloodline muscle with the Board of Directors, and here it is. The Undisputed Tag Team titles come home to the Bloodline at the Night of Champions! When Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn will lose the tag team championships to…! SOLO… and Your Tribal Chief, ROMAN! REIGNS!” Jey is livid now but he can’t do anything about this! Roman says at Night of Champions, they do what they always do: they represent for The Bloodline.
And Roman dedicates this victory and their reigns to the greatest tag team of all time, Afa & Sika, the Wild Samoans. Jey is still livid, Jimmy is speechless, but their hands are tied as Roman takes the responsibility away from them. Will the Head of the Table have only more gold on his plate after WWE’s return to Saudi Arabia?
Backstage interview with Damage CTRL.
Kayla Braxton is with Bayley, Iyo Sky & Dakota Kai, and Bayley says, “Crushing over Roman Reigns much? Huh? This is supposed to be our interview time. But y’know what, I get it. Roman and I have so much in common. We’re both Grand Slam Champions and we’re both exceptional leaders. Even when things don’t exactly go as planned.” But Bayley tells Iyo not to worry, Bayley will take the blame for what happened at Backlash. She pushed Iyo too hard, and maybe Iyo wasn’t ready yet. Iyo rolls her eyes as Bayley continues to say, “But like Roman, sometimes leaders need to take things into their own hands.
“And that’s exactly what I’m gonna do tonight when Dakota and I exert our dominance and win back the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships! So Kayla, why don’t you go tell Roman that SmackDown belongs to Damage CTRL! HAHA!” The Role Model leads the way, but will DMG CTRL really take control? Or will the champions still be #LivingLarge?
The Usos grumble backstage.
They hear the LWO laughing and Jey gets mad. Is something funny to them? Joaquin Wilde says ain’t nobody speaking to the Usos, they were talking in Spanish and stuff. Jimmy says the LWO must’ve seen what just happened out there and now everything’s funny. How ’bout Jimmy kicks them in the face? Cruz asks what’s wrong with them, they all start shouting, Zelina tries to keep the peace, but then Rey & Escobar walk over. Escobar says it’s not the LWO’s fault that the Tribal Jefe doesn’t love them no more. Now that’s funny. The Usos decide to leave, but what will it take for them to cool off from what Roman did?
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez VS Bayley & Dakota Kai w/ Iyo Sky!
SmackDown returns as DMG CTRL make their entrance. The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see just who controls the Women’s Tag Division.
The teams sort out and Dakota starts against Raquel. They rush in, Dakota tilt-o-whirls but Raquel easily stands up against the crucifix takedown. Dakota shifts to a sunset flip, still not enough power and Raquel drags Dakota right up! Raquel whips Dakota to the corner, runs in and RAMS into Dakota! Tag to Liv, Liv taunts Bayley and Raquel whips her in to body block Dakota! Then Liv whips Raquel to SPLASH Dakota! Snapmare and basement dropkick! Cover, TWO! Liv keeps cool and Bayley coaches Dakota. Dakota PELES Liv down! And we see Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn, the NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions, watching this match gleefully.
Dakota rolls Liv, TWO, but Dakota Oklahoma Rolls, TWO! Liv trips Dakota, covers, TWO! Dakota ROLLING ELBOWS Liv and Liv sits down in a daze. Dakota struts around, Bayley yells at Michael Cole to talk about it, and Dakota bumps Liv off buckles. Tag to Bayley, she and Dakota bring Liv around to double whip. Liv holds ropes, BOOTS Dakota, then rolls Bayley up! TWO but Liv hurries to whip Bayley. Bayley reverses, Liv goes up and over, but Dakota waistlocks. Liv slips under, dodges the haymaker, but Bayley CLOBBERS Liv! Cover, TWO! Alba & Isla pretend to be surprised while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again and both Liv and Bayley are down. Fans rally, both women crawl, hot tags to Dakota and Raquel! The former friends meet again, and Raquel rallies! Dakota ducks a lariat but not the SOUTHPAW! Raquel then scoops to FALL AWAY SLAM! Dakota goes to a corner, Raquel SPLASHES her, then scoops to FALL AWAY SLAM again! Dakota’s in a drop zone, Raquel runs in, but Dakota avoids the Vader! Hot tag back to Bayley! But Raquel choke grips each of them, to DOUBLE CHOKE SLAM! Fans fire up, Liv tags in, and Raquel helps her RAILGUN BACK SPLASH! And then POWERBOMB SWING!
Raquel just CLOBBERS Bayley and Dakota with Liv, then BOMBS her onto Bayley! Dakota runs in to BOOT Raquel down! And then she runs up on Liv, but Liv TOSSES her right out! Liv runs in at Bayley, SHINING WIZARD in the corner! Liv hoists Bayley up top, climbs up after, but Dakota sneaks a tag. Bayley and Liv brawl with body shots, then Bayley slips under! Dakota GAMANGIRIS Liv and Bayley brings Liv out! Dakota climbs, for the DOUBLE STMOP BOMB!! All three women are down and Dakota jammed her leg! Alba & Isla mock the pain as Dakota crawls to Liv. Cover, Raquel breaks it!!
Bayley crawls to Dakota and drags her back to the corner. Bayley tags in, she hurries after Liv, and she has the ref check Dakota. Bayley gets Iyo to get a title belt! But Raquel stops that! And Liv bumps Bayley into Iyo! Roll-up, Liv & Raquel win!!
Winners: Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez, by pinfall (still WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions)
Bayley is stunned! But there’s also a bit of deja vu as the DMG CTRL cheating only backfires on them, just like Backlash! How will DMG CTRL ever live this down?
The Brawling Brutes console Sheamus.
Ridge Holland says not to worry! They can go get some pints. #YESBOY~! Pretty Deadly is here on SmackDown, and they say hey. Well, look at that, SmackDown’s newest tag team, straight from NXT. So who is Pretty and who is Deadly? Hah. Anyway, Elton Prince & Kit Wilson are new to Friday Night SnackDown, and they wanna know how to fill these forms out. They got their names, but the rest is unclear. Like, for example, “Mr. Butch,” did you put primary language as “unintelligible grunts?” Ridge keeps Dunne from rushing them, but then Kit has to ask Ridge if he got confused by all the big words and needed mum to help.
Sheamus holds Ridge back now, Pretty Deadly say “Sorry about that loss.” Sheamus glares as Pretty Deadly walks away, but he does agree to those pints. Ridge’s treat, of course. Will the Brawling Brutes all bounce back soon enough? And will Kit & Elton watch themselves before they end up pretty dead meat?
Bianca Belair is here!
Knoxville cheers for their own as the longEST reigning women’s champion of the modern era makes her way to the ring. Bianca gives kisses to her family in the front row, then gets in the ring for this championship celebration! And look at all that pyro! But uh, then Asuka shows up…? The Empress of Tomorrow did join SmackDown along with Bianca through the WWE Draft, but she also lost to Bianca not too long ago. Asuka enters the ring, and offers a handshake. Fans chant for the EST, perhaps to encourage her. Bianca accepts the handshake, but then gets BLUE MIST!! Asuka is a sneaky one!
Bianca flails and writhes while Asuka laughs and enjoys her handiwork. Fans boo but Asuka blows kisses as she leaves. Refs and medics get Bianca water and towels, but will Bianca make Asuka regret ruining her homecoming?
WWE World Heavyweight Championship Tournament SmackDown Finals: AJ Styles VS Bobby Lashley!
The Phenomenal One beat the King of Lucha and the Rated R Superstar, but the All Mighty beat the Celtic Warrior and The Now. Only one gets to face Seth Freakin’ Rollins at Night of Champions, who wins that golden ticket to Saudi Arabia?
The bell rings and the two circle. Fans rally up and the two approach. Styles slips around to CHOP and forearm but Lashley doesn’t budge. Styles and Lashley approach, Styles dodges again to fire off more shots! Lashley snarls and storms up to Styles. Styles ends up cornered, but then he dodges Lashley’s haymaker to fire off forearms and CHOPS! The ref counts, Styles lets off, and Lashley glares at him. They circle, Lashley corners Styles again, and the fans duel. Styles swings on Lashley but Lashley blocks and knees low! Lashley bumps Styles off buckles, throws down elbows, and then he stomps away!
The ref counts, Lashley lets off, and then he hauls Styles up. Lashley throws forearms, runs side to side, but Styles dodges! Styles CHOPS, fires off forearms, CHOPS again, and keeps Lashley on the ropes with kicks. The ref counts, Styles lets off, but Lashley blocks the whip. Lashley then TOSSES Styles out of the ring! Styles flounders, Lashley goes out after him, and he drags Styles up to RAM him into the apron! Styles drops to his knees but Lashley fireman’s carries him, to POST him! Styles is dazed and Lashley fires up while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again and Lashley looms over Styles. Blood trickles down Lashley’s face, his stitches having popped open, but he still stands Styles up. Styles throws body shots but Lashley knees low. Lashley CLUBS Styles on the neck again and again, then whips Styles to ropes. Styles kicks Lashley, KICKS the leg, KICKS it again, then KICKS it again! Styles stomps the leg, stomps the foot, but has to catch his breath. Styles runs, but Lashley CLOBBERS him! Lashley rains down forearms, digs them into Styles’ forehead, then ROCKS him with another. Lashley drags Styles up, whips him to a corner, and then runs in, only for Styles to catch him!
Styles rolls Lashley, to the CALF CRUSHER! Lashley endures, reaches out, but then grabs Styles to DRIBBLE his head off the mat! Styles lets the leg go and Lashley drags Styles back up. Lashley stands Styles up but Styles fires off the Phenomenal Blitz! Styles KICKS the leg out, rains down fists on that bloody welt, and then DDTS Lashley down! Cover, TWO!! Lashley flounders to a corner but Styles stalks him. Styles throws hands on the wound, then he brings Lashley up. Styles fireman’s carries, but Lashley slips off! Lashley clinches to FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Styles survives and Lashley snarls through his crimson mask.
Lashley drags Styles up, gut wrenches to a Canadian Rack, and hits the CLIFF- NO, Styles lands on his feet! SLIDING FOREARM! Lashley flounders and hobbles away, but Styles runs in! Lashley catches him to the full nelson! HURT LOCK!! Styles endures, pries at the hold, reaches out, and steps through the rope! Lashley lets go at 4, and Styles flops to the apron. Lashley goes out to SMACK Styles off the steps! Lashley then brings Styles around to throw hands. Fans duel, but Lashley fireman’s carries again. Styles slips free to POST Lashley! Lashley staggers, into a PELE! Lashley crawls, Styles pushes him into the ring.
Styles aims from the apron, he prepares that elbow pad, and he springboards, PHENOMENAL- Fireman’s carry! Lashley catches Styles and brings him around, but Styles slips off and wants the leg! Styles rolls Lashley but Lashley rolls through, deadlift suplex! But Styles knees free! Styles fires off shots, runs, but into a scoop! Styles fights but Lashley still hits the POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO!! Lashley hurries to haul Styles back up, but Styles resists the full nelson! Styles throws elbows, but Lashley throws haymakers! Styles goes to a corner, Lashley runs in, but Styles moves! Lashley POSTS himself!!
Styles then KNEES Lashley into the post! Lashley staggers away, Styles takes aim! PHENOMENAL FOREARM!!! Cover, Styles wins!!
Winner: AJ Styles, by pinfall (advances to Night of Champions)
A phenomenal start to SmackDown, and a phenomenal finish to SmackDown, because AJ Styles is heading to the title match! Styles stands by the belt on stage, and the OC rush out to celebrate with him! Will Styles be a phenomenal new World Heavyweight Champion?
My Thoughts:
A great SmackDown, with great action and great build to Night of Champions. Great stuff in the SmackDown half of the World Heavyweight Championship tournament, especially that first Triple Threat. The constant action and how the opponents were quite literally used against each other reminded me of the Triple Threat of Samoa Joe VS Christopher Daniels VS AJ Styles way back when in TNA Impact. Then the second Triple Threat was really good at playing up the opportunistic finish Theory pulled on Lashley and then flipping it. But ouch, Lashley really did get a bad welt and cut off the steel steps.
Styles VS Lashley was great stuff, but maybe held back by how Lashley got that welt and cut. Styles winning is fine, I’m doubtful anyone was gonna beat Rollins anyway, and you can check my article from Raw on why it’s gotta be Rollins anyway. We also got good stuff in promos to play off these results, like Pretty Deadly taunting The Brawling Brutes to get themselves in their first feud, and Grayson Waller wanting to interview whoever the main event winner was for his own debut. Styles winning in this case also works because he’s already had beef with Waller when Styles did that quick visit to NXT.
I almost busted up laughing at Grimes squashing Corbin, just… wow! Corbin has been the butt of jokes for WWE, but I would not have thought they’d do this to him. But hey, great for Grimes, he deserves to get going somehow. Maybe Grimes can take the US title off Theory. Good promo from Bayley before the really good tag title match, and as I figured, DMG CTRL cheating costs them the win. The big surprise was Alba & Isla watching this match, but who knows, there could be something big in the works. Raquel & Liv will surely beat Sonya Deville & Chelsea Green on Raw, and then maybe Night of Champions gives us Women’s Tag Champs VS Women’s Tag Champs.
Speaking of women’s titles, I’m a little surprised it was Asuka interrupting Bianca’s title celebration and not either Rhea Ripley wanting to do something about how they’re both champions of the other brand, or someone completely different wanting their first shot at Bianca. That said, of course Asuka was gonna mist Bianca, and we’re getting that match one more time around. Bianca has the record for longest reign now, so maybe now she can drop the title? We’ll have to wait and see. But where Rhea is going to face Natalya and surely win, I wouldn’t be surprised if Bianca beats Asuka one more time, and then we get Rhea VS Bianca at some point in the near future.
And of course, the Bloodline story continues to be so very good. I had a feeling Roman was going to put Solo in the tag title situation over at least one Uso, like he sticks it to Jey for talking with Sami in secret, but he instead also inserts himself into this. Once again, Sami is proven right about how Roman was not for the Usos dedicating things to Roman and then losing, but uh, are Sami & Kevin really going to Night of Champions? They’ve been against Saudi Arabia shows, never being on one in any capacity, so was I right to fantasy book a title match on TV that Kevin & Sami lose? Now that fans have been told about Roman & Solo VS Sami & Kevin, that move would feel like a ripoff. I guess that’s another “wait and see” move.
My Score: 8.8/10
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Will the Mad King regret this gamble?
Before putting both belts on the line against Katsuyori Shibata at AEW WrestleDream, Eddie Kingston defends his NJPW Strong title against Rocky Romero! Will plans have to change all thanks to Azucar?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- AEW World Trios Championships: The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn VS The Hardy Party; The Acclaimed & Billy win and retain the titles.
- NJPW Strong Openweight Championship: Eddie Kingston VS Rocky Romero; Eddie wins and retains the title.
- The Righteous VS Caleb Crush & Gunnar; The Righteous win.
- AEW Women’s World Championship #1 Contender’s match: Ruby Soho VS Hikaru Shida; Shida wins and will challenge Saraya for the title on Title Tuesday, October 10th.
PLAY BY PLAY
AEW World Trios Championships: The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn VS The Hardy Party!
The open challenge was put forth, and it was answered very quickly! Will Matt, Jeff & Brother Zay DELETE the Scissor World Tour? Or will Max Caster, Anthony Bowens & Daddy Ass keep the party going?
But of course, Platinum Max has a diss track! “Acclaimed on the mic, ’bout to leave these dudes up in smoke! Y’know we comin’ like the Colorado Buffalos! Matt, I don’t want any heat! I don’t need your crazy ass wife sendin’ me tweets! It’s the one guy in Private Party! Nowadays, he gets tag teamed by the Hardys! Jeff, I’m a leave you black in both eyes! You gonna need these sunglasses like Coach Prime.” Bowens takes the mic to say “COLORADOOOO~! The Acclaimed have arrived! Scissor Me, Daddy Ass~!” And he does! The belts are raised, and we see who survives WrestleDream weekend!
The trios sort out and Bowens starts against Kassidy. They shake hands, tie up, and Bowens waistlocks. Kassidy drop toeholds, facelocks but Bowens slips free to wrench. Kassidy rolls, handsprings, wrenches and hammerlocks to a headlock. Bowens powers out to headlock but Kassidy powers out, only for Bowens to run him over! Bowens self-scissors, then things speed up. Kassidy hurdles, Bowens shoves then follows but Kassidy arm-drags! Bowens arm-drags! Bowens blocks Kassidy’s arm-drag to whip, but Kassidy wheelbarrows and arm-drags! Bowens stands, into a RANA! Kassidy then pounds the mat and fans fire up.
Bowens kicks but Kassidy blocks to spin him. Kassidy kicks but Bowens blocks to flip him! Bowens then kicks, kicks and KOTARO KRUSHER! Fans fire up, “EVERYONE Loves The Acclaimed!” Bowens drags Kassidy up, tags in Caster, and they double whip. Kassidy holds ropes, TOSSES Bowens then BOOTS Caster! Tag to Matt and Matt BOOTS Caster! Kassidy hits a NECKBREAKER, Jeff tags in to go up, for the SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Jeff snapmares Caster to then NECK SNAPPER! Fans fire up with Jeff and he waits on Caster to stand. Kick but no Twist as Caster slips free! Jeff ducks the backhand to SPIN KICK!
Jeff CLUBS Caster, Caster scrambles away, tags to Billy and Matt! Fans fire up as Matt says “DELETE! DELETE!” Billy says “SUCK IT!” “DELETE!” “SUCK IT!” “DELETE!” “SUCK IT!” And repeat! Then Billy headlocks! Matt throws body shots, powers out, but Billy runs Matt over! Billy flexes and does a dance, and then he runs in. Matt ELBOWS Billy, BOOTS him, then bumps him off buckles! “DELETE! DELETE! DELETE!” Billy gets all three layers, and Matt tags Jeff. Jeff tags Kassidy, and the Hardys set up fort he classic POETRY IN MOTION! Then Kassidy adds PARTY IN MOTION! But The Acclaimed CLOBBER Kassidy & The Hardys!
Fans fire up as Caster has Kassidy up to scoop and SLAM! Billy helps get the legs, and Bowens goes up to SCISSOR ME TIMBERS! Kassidy squeals before impact! Cover, TWO! Kassidy survives but The Acclaimed have control as Rampage goes picture in picture.
Billy brings Kassidy up, bumps him off buckles, and he hears the fans singing. Billy ROCKS Kassidy with a right, apologizes to the ref, then tags to Bowens. Bowens drags Kassidy up to ROCK him with haymaker after haymaker! Bowens then brings Kassidy up to tag in Caster. They double suplex Kassidy, Caster covers, TWO! Another cover, TWO! Caster keeps Kassidy down with a chinlock while fans rally up. Kassidy fights to his feet, throws body shots, and he fires forearms as Rampage returns to single picture. Kassidy runs but Caster CLOBBERS him! Tag to Billy and they mug Kassidy.
Billy brings Kassidy to an open corner, stomps and ROCKS him on repeat, then lets off to smirk at the Hardys. He dares them to do something, but Matt tells Billy to suck it! So Billy DECKS Matt! Billy runs corner to corner but Kassidy dodges! The splash hits buckles and Billy falls back! Fans rally up as both men crawl, but Billy gets Kassidy’s leg! Kassidy stands up to ENZIGURI! Hot tag to Jeff! Jeff rallies on Billy, on Bowens, and on Caster! Fans fire up and Jeff clotheslines Billy up and out! Jeff CLOBBS Bowens, then catches him for a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! Leg hook cradle! Cover, Caster breaks it!
Caster helps Bowens up, then runs in, but Jeff ELBOWS caster and ROCKS Bowens! Jeff goes up, WHISPER IN THE WIND! Jeff gets both Caster and Bowens but everyone is down! Billy returns, kicks low, says ‘SUCK IT!” and runs, but Jeff dodges! Matt kicks Billy for a TWIST OF FATE! Jeff hurries up top, fans fire up, SWANTON BOMB! Cover, Bowens breaks it in time! Matt CLUBS Bowens, Bowens hits back, and Bowens calls to Caster. They whip Matt to a corner, forearm then ELBOW then forearm again! And a feed to the POWERSLAM! ROLLING ELBOW for Jeff! The Acclaimed regroup, and Billy crawls to the corner.
Fans fire up as Billy drags Jeff over. Jeff gets loose, hot tags to Kassidy and Bowens! Kassidy dodges Bowens to DROPKICK Caster! “This is Awesome!” as Kassidy BOOTS Bowens! Kassidy goes up, leaps, FLYING FLATLINER! Billy stands, runs in, but Kassidy dumps him out! Kassidy slingshots out then QUEBRADAS to take Billy down! Kassidy mocks the scissoring, then tells Bowens to get up. Kassidy springboards in, but Bowens dodges and Caster BACKHANDS Kassidy! Then Bowens BACKHANDS Kassidy! Bowens fires off the Five Tool Strike Fest! Caster hoists Kassidy up and Bowens helps, to give Kassidy the PLATINUM BOMB! Cover, The Acclaimed win!
Winners: The Acclaimed & Billy Gunn, by pinfall (still AEW World Trios Championships)
A huge win for the champions, and the Scissor World Tour continues! In fact, it is heading to Seattle for WrestleDream’s Zero Hour! TMDK’s Shane Haste, Mikey Nicholls & Bad Dude Tito are waiting, will they show The Acclaimed that The Mighty Don’t Kneel?
Eddie Kingston speaks.
“Well folks, tonight, it’s me and Big Rock, Rocky Romero, for the NJPW Strong Openweight Championship. Rock, I got nothing but respect for you, dawg, so it’s gonna be an honor and a pleasure to defend this against you. You’re the man that got me into the G1. You’re the man that got me-” Wait, Team Triple J is interrupting. Jay Lethal says that if we’re talking honor and respect, Eddie is standing here with two titles on his shoulders, and that is worth respecting. But Lethal can’t get behind how Eddie is the ROH World Champion. Lethal dedicated his life to that title! His blood, sweat, tears, all to honor a tradition that meant that every person to hold that title would be a pure athlete!
And Eddie, you are no pure athlete! Now as for this NJPW Strong Openweight title, Lethal doesn’t care if Eddie wins it or loses it here tonight. He really doesn’t. But he just cares that Eddie is unfit to be ROH World Champion! Eddie says okay, he’s got Lethal. But excuse his back, he’s gotta go beat up Romero. The Mad King leaves, but will he still have both crowns going into WrestleDream?
AEW shares an interview from after last week’s Collision.
Lexi Nair was with Andrade El Idolo after he was bandaged up from the beating Bullet Club Gold gave him. He almost won, but Juice Robinson interfered. What was that about? Andrade says everyone saw that Andrade had White beat. But the question for Juice is… “Do you have a problem with me? With Andrade El Idolo? Lemme tell you something. See you Saturday in Seattle!” Andrade wants his revenge on Rock Hard, will he get it on WrestleDream Eve?
NJPW Strong Openweight Championship: Eddie Kingston VS Rocky Romero!
The Mad King beat Kenta at NJPW Independence Day back in July to have his first singles title under the NJPW banner. And now he defends it against Azucar as a favor for getting him in the door. Will Rocky repay this favor by taking this title from Eddie? Or will Eddie still head to Seattle as a double champion?
The introductions are made, the NJPW belt is raised, and we see who is truly NJPW Strong!
The bell rings and fans rally up for “EDDIE! EDDIE!” The two circle, Rocky tests things with a kick but Eddie stays back. They feel things out, tie up, and are in a deadlock. Eddie waistlocks, Rocky wrenches, wristlocks, but Eddie clinches. Fans rally, Rocky keeps on the wristlock but Eddie powers through to wrench and wristlock back. Rocky rolls, breaks free and DROPKICKS! Fans are torn as Rocky swaggers, but he and Eddie reset. They feel things out, knuckle lock, and Rocky knees low. Rocky headlocks, grinds the hold, but Eddie powers up and out. They RAM shoulders, but Eddie stays up with a smirk.
Fans fire up as Rocky smirks back, but then pie faces Eddie! Rocky runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, and RANAS! Eddie bails out, Rocky builds speed and DIVES! Direct hit but Eddie stays up, so Rocky goes again! DIVE and Eddie drops to his knees! Rocky keeps going, and he DIVES for the hattrick, only for Eddie to catch him! Stalling suplex, to the floor! Fans rally behind Eddie while Rampage goes picture in picture.
Eddie stands, stretches out his back, and then he gets Rocky up and into the ring. Cover, TWO! Eddie keeps cool, and also chooses not to rain down fists, instead clamping on a chinlock. Rocky endures as Eddie grinds him down, and fans rally up. Eddie cranks the headlock but Rocky refuses to give up. Rocky fights up, throws elbows, but Eddie knees him low! Eddie whips to knee low again, then whips for another knee! Eddie whips but Rocky rolls him up, TWO! Rocky BUZZSAWS Eddie, then TORNADO DDTS! Both men are down and a standing count begins. Rocky stirs at 3, crawls over, and he brings Eddie up.
Eddie pushes Rocky, runs, but into an IRON OCTOPUS! Eddie endures, pries at the hold, and pops free, only for Rocky to wrangle him with a ghost pin! TWO, and Eddie goes to ropes. Rocky storms up, KICKS Eddie in the back, but Eddie just grimaces. Eddie eggs Rocky on so Rocky KICKS him again! Eddie growls and eggs Rocky on more as Rampage goes picture in picture.
Rampage returns and Eddie suplexes, but Rocky knees free! Rocky knees low, Eddie rebounds, but into a JUMP KNEE! Eddie goes to ropes, Rocky storms over and brings him up through the ropes, to KICK! Eddie eggs Rocky on even though he’s stuck, so Rocky SLAPS Eddie! Eddie SLAPS Rocky! Rocky SOBATS! Then Rocky goes up a corner to MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Eddie is still in this and Rocky argues the count but the ref says it was fair. Rocky drags Eddie up, cravats, but no Sliced Bread! Eddie runs in to clothesline in the corner! And MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Fans fire up and Eddie hoists Rocky up top!
Eddie climbs up behind Rocky, stands him up, but Rocky throws hands! Rocky CLUBS Eddie, cravats, and hits SUPER SLICED BREAD! Cover, TWO!! Fans fire up as Eddie survives, and Rocky grits his teeth. Rocky pumps up and fans rally. Rocky runs in to clothesline! That’s one-ever! Two-ever! But URAKEN stops that! URAKEN again!! Eddie drags Rocky into the STRETCH PLUM!! Rocky taps, Eddie wins!!
Winner: Eddie Kingston, by submission (still NJPW Strong Openweight Champion)
Azucar could not dethrone The Mad King, but he still shows Eddie respect with a handshake and hug. Eddie is still NJWP Strong, but will he have to fight even harder to survive The Wrestler, Katsuyori Shibata?
Wait! That’s Shibata’s music! Shibata is HERE! He goes into the ring and shakes hands with Eddie. These two respect each other, and that means they will give it everything they’ve got! Will Eddie still be a two belt king? Or will Shibata become a TRIPLE CROWN Champion?
Aussie Open speaks.
Mark Davis says he is so tired. So tired of hearing the “top blokes” walk around here the last year, hubris unchecked, lying to the people that they are the best in the world. Kyle Fletcher says that for the last 365 days, everything Aussie Open has done has been to get back to FTR. When FTR beat them a year ago, it broke Fletcher. Fletcher felt like a failure and felt lost. So what he wants more than anything is to make FTR feel that pain. This Sunday, Aussie Open takes the AEW World Tag Team Championships, burns down the legacy of #7StarFTR, and from the ashes, rebuild a new empire that they will stand atop of to proclaim that THEY are the best tag team in the world!
The Aussie Arrow and Dunkzilla are ready to bring down Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler, will they fulfill that WrestleDream?
The Righteous VS Caleb Crush & Gunnar!
Speaking of tag titles, Dutch & Vincent are aimed at the ROH World Tag Team Championships! However, Adam Cole will be out with injury so it’ll just be Maxwell Jacob Friedman meeting them in Seattle. Will this tune-up prove to be more than enough going into that tag title handicap match?
The teams sort out, but then Dutch just CLOBBERS Crush & Gunnar! Fans boo as Dutch says just a few more days and those titles will be theirs! Vincent rains down fists on Crush, then drags him up to UPPERCUT! Vincent bumps Crush off buckles, tags in Dutch, and the Righteous mugs Crush before the BOSS MAN SLAM! Gunnar staggers up but Dutch feeds him to Vinnie’s KNEE! Then Vinnie feeds him to a BOSS MAN SLAM! Tag to Vinnie, fans are torn as the Righteous pace around Crush. Vinnie snaps his fingers, then cravats, AUTUMN SUNSET! Cover, Righteous win!
Winners: The Righteous, by pinfall
A swift and dominant win, these are the two men coming for the tag titles! Will The Righteous purge ROH of the “false friendship” that is the brochachos? Or are even two Righteous men combined not on the level of the Devil?
Ortiz sits alone in a room.
He looks back on his career alongside Mike Santana. They were at the top of their game coming into AEW, but then it ended up going downhill. There’s even audio from Konnan touching on how Ortiz and Santana stopped talking to each other and how Konnan was saddened by that. Ortiz has the footage stop there. What will it take for him to get Santana to talk to him?
Darby Allin speaks.
After replaying what Christian Cage said just last Wednesday on Dynamite, the Relentless One reiterates that he is NOT losing in Seattle, Washington! Will Darby defend home turf against Captain Charisma?
Nick Wayne speaks.
He knows Darby has a lot to say about Christian Cage, and all of that will be part of the Countdown special. But Nick also knows Darby’s actions will speak louder than his words at WrestleDream. And although Darby told Nick not to be there ringside, Nick doesn’t really want to anyway because of what Christian & Luchasaurus are capable of. So, while they let Christian and Darby settle their business, how about Nick and Luchasaurus settle theirs? For months and months, Luchasaurus walked around here while another man held his title. And Luchasaurus followed Christian around like he was some kind of father figure.
And Nick isn’t sure what it is about Christian where he thinks he can even be such a figure to “us Lost Boys,” but Nick had a father. And he told Nick at a young age “to never leave your debts unpaid.” Nick owes Luchasaurus. At Wembley Stadium, Luchasaurus choke slammed Nick onto a skateboard and Nick never forgot it. Nick will repay Luchasaurus this Sunday during Zero Hour. And Nick will even hand Luchasaurus a receipt. Nick brings his own skateboard, will he grind it right into the Right Hand of Destruction?
BREAKING NEWS for Collision!
AEW is going to do it big for WrestleDream Eve as, with Zack Sabre Jr. on commentary, we see an 8 Man Tag! FTR teams with Bryan Danielson & Wheeler Yuta to take on Aussie Open, Ricky Starks & “Big Bill” Morrissey! Plus, Chris Jericho & Kenny Omega test their tag team chemistry against The Gates of Agony! Will The Ocho & The Cleaner survive Toa Liona & Bishop Kaun to take on the Don Callis Family? And Julia Hart gets in action to build some last minute momentum, will she be ready for Kris Statlander and their TBS Championship match set for Sunday?
Backstage interview with Zack Sabre Jr.
Renee Paquette is with The Front Man of TMDK, and says we’re just days away from WrestleDream, where ZSJ takes on The American Dragon, Bryan Danielson. ZSJ just came off a three week tour in NJPW and just got here to the States, is he worried at all about acclimating? ZSJ asks Bryan “Dragon Bullocks” Danielson, “Where are you, darling?” As Renee just said, ZSJ got off a 16 hour flight from Tokyo and is feeling fresh as a daisy. But perhaps this company’s keeping Bryan wrapped head to toe in bubble wrap, or keeps him in a giant Zorb ball. At this point, a strong gust of wind will knock Bryan over.
And is ZSJ supposed to be honored that Bryan chose him as part of the year long retirement tour? Newsflash: Bryan barely has a weekend. This Sunday isn’t just about finding out who the best technical wrestler is, no no. Bryan has retired once in Seattle, so ZSJ will make it final. Ya like that? The final retirement~! Submissions in Seattle, see you on Sunday. The NJPW World Television Champion has put Bryan on notice, but will he be able to slay the American Dragon?
AEW Women’s World Championship #1 Contender’s match: Ruby Soho VS Hikaru Shida!
While the Outcasts stand at two members, Saraya is looking forward to a friendly showdown with the Runaway in a little under two weeks! But will Ruby make sure there is No Future for the Shining Samurai? Or will Shida take down one Outcast to go after another?
The bell rings and the two circle. Fans fire up as Ruby and Shida step up, and they’re on Shida’s side. Ruby shoves, runs, and RAMS Shida, but Shida just fires up! Ruby headlocks, Shida throws body shots, and then she powers out. Shida then runs past Ruby to run Ruby over! Fans duel, Shida has the majority, and she goes to the corner. Shida climbs up but Ruby slips away before any fists can rain down! Shida is annoyed but she waits on Ruby to return. Ruby takes her time going to the apron, steps in at 6 of 10 but wants Shida to stay back. Shida gets annoyed as the ref keeps her back, but then Ruby pulls Shida’s hair to throw her down!
Ruby throws hands, puts Shida in the corner, then RAMS into her again and again! Fans boo but Ruby runs, only to miss! Shida ROCKS Ruby, then climbs up to rain down fists! Ruby gets away before three, runs back in but into a BOOT! Shida bumps Ruby off buckles, climbs up and rains down those fists! Ruby slips out at five to YANK Shida down! Ruby whips, Shida goes up and CROSSBODIES! Shida then drags Ruby up, puts her in yet another corner, and tries one more time! Shida rains down fists, and goes all the way to TEN! Fans fire up with Shida and she kicks Ruby out, to then MISSILE DROPKICK!
Fans fire up as Shida drags Ruby up, and Rampage goes picture in picture.
Ruby CLUBS away on Shida to stop the lift, then shoves her to a corner. Ruby runs in, Shida dodges, but Ruby ELBOWS her! Ruby goes up to hit DEADLY NIGHTSHADE! Ruby digs Shida into the buckles, lets off as the ref counts, and then brings Shida up to snapmare. Ruby covers, TWO! Ruby throws down fists now, but lets off with a smug smirk. Ruby puts Shida on ropes to CHOKE! The ref counts, Ruby lets off, and then Ruby has Shida in the ropes to throw knees! A shoutout to Saraya, and Ruby lets off at 4. Ruby stalks Shida, looms over her, and pushes her around. Shida pushes back but Ruby eggs her on.
Shida ROCKS Ruby, then fires again! Ruby claws Shida’s face! And throws her down by her hair again! The ref reprimands, but Ruby clamps on a straitjacket stretch! Shida endures, but Ruby grinds her into the mat! Fans rally, Shida fights up, and she arm-drags free! Ruby returns to CLOBBER Shida! Cover, TWO! Ruby is annoyed but Shida grabs at Ruby’s hair! Ruby CLUBS Shida, drags her up, and stomps a hand! Shida scrambles to a corner while the ref reprimands but Ruby stomps a mudhole in. Ruby lets off as the ref counts, and Ruby storms around. Shida drags herself up, but Ruby CHOKES her on the ropes!
The ref counts while Ruby BITES Shida’s ear! Ruby lets off at 4, drags Shida up, but Shida ROCKS her! And again! And again! And again! But Ruby knees low! Ruby talks trash, whips Shida to ropes, but Shida ducks ‘n’ dodges, and DOUBLE LARIATS knock both women down! Rampage returns to single picture as the standing count climbs. Fans rally, both women are down at 5 of 10 but Shida goes to ropes. Shida snarls, she and Ruby stand at 7, and they storm up. Shida fires a forearm, Ruby gives it back! Shida throws another, so Ruby gives it back! They go back and forth, harder and harder, faster and faster!
Ruby gets the edge, but Shida ROCKS her! And ROCKS her! And ROCKS her again! Shida whips to JUMP KNEE! Shida then suplexes high and hard! Cover, TWO! Shida fires up again and the fans are with her! Shida aims, KATA- NO, Ruby ducks and bails out! Fans boo but Shida goes out to pursue! Shida runs in, jumps off the steps, and DROPKICKS Ruby down! Fans fire up again and Shida stands Ruby up. Shida torture racks Ruby, then goes to the ramp!? Fans are thunderous but Ruby fights free! They throw forearms, and CHOPS! Shida CLUBS Ruby, Ruby throws body shots, but the count is climbing!
They both hear it’s 8 of 10 and start sprinting! They both slide in at 9.5!! Fans are thunderous and then Ruby swings, but Shida blocks! Ruby HEADBUTTS, blocks a kick, then KICKS back! SAIDO! Cover, TWO! Shida survives and Ruby grows frustrated. Ruby goes to a corner, and she takes Shida’s kendo stick for her own! The ref stops Ruby, takes the kendo stick, but then Ruby brings out the spray paint! Shida and the ref both block that and they’re all fighting over it! Down goes the ref!! Shida and Ruby are both stunned, but then Ruby HEADBUTTS! DESTINATION UNKNOWN! But no ref to count the cover!
Ruby is furious, she would’ve had this! But then she sees the kendo stick! Ruby grins as she wields Shida’s weapon! Fans boo, but Shida blocks the strike to kick and HEADSHOT! Then KATANA KICK!! Cover, but still no ref! Wait, here comes Aubrey! Aubrey slides in, counts the cover, TWO!! Ruby survives but Shida fires up! Shida puts Ruby in a drop zone, goes up the corner, and she METE- NO! Ruby dodges to then STO! Ruby drags herself up the corner, goes to the very top, and STAGE DIVE SENTONS onto knees! And then FALCON ARROW! Cover, TWO!! Ruby survives but Shida won’t stop there!
Shida hauls Ruby up but Ruby wrenches to NO FUTURE KICK! But Shida rebounds to KATANA!! Cover, Shida wins!!
Winner: Hikaru Shida, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contender to the AEW Women’s World Champion)
The Shining Samurai takes down The Runaway, but wait! Here comes Saraya! #TitleTuesday is coming, will that be a good Knight for the champ? Or will Shida take this belt back to become a historic THREE-TIME champion?
My Thoughts:
A great Rampage, especially as the go-home to WrestleDream. I figured the title matches would end with the champions retaining, but we got really good stuff out of Acclaimed VS Hardy Party and Eddie VS Rocky. As for their title defenses on WrestleDream, I don’t see TMDK taking the trios titles as this will be their AEW debuts. And as I’ve said a few times already, Eddie isn’t losing both belts he worked so hard to have so soon. Plus, it feels like there’s some tension between NJPW the company and Shibata, or else Shibata would already be NJPW Strong Openweight Champion and not one of ROH’s champs.
Speaking of Eddie, good promo from him before his match with Rocky, and good interaction with Team Triple J. I wasn’t exactly expecting Jay Lethal to be Eddie’s first actual feud for the ROH World Championship, but I suppose it does make sense as Lethal was a major player in ROH. I hope these guys actually show up on ROH programming, but also, Tony Khan wants this feud to be seen so it’ll end up on AEW programming instead. Y’know, just like all these other ROH title stories outside of the AEW Women’s title.
Good squash from The Righteous, and I’m really curious as to how the tag title match goes on Sunday. There’s a lot of stuff MJF still has to do with Cole, Roddy and The Kingdom, and now this intrigue with Jay White, Bullet Club Gold and the backstage attack at the end of Dynamite. I still feel it should’ve been The Kingdom in the PPV match anyway, but it seems they were going to drag this story out even before Cole hurt his foot. Good promo from Nick Wayne to call out Luchasaurus, but I feel like Luchasaurus ends up winning that match just to make a point of Nick not being able to show up ringside for Darby.
Good promo from Andrade to call out Juice for this week’s Collision, and I’m still wondering if/when La Faccion Ingobernable helps Andrade against Bullet Club Gold. For that matter, why can’t MJF be paying LFI to beat up on White and the BCG? He’s had business dealings with Andrade & Rush before, let’s strike that up again for some continuity. Really good promo from Aussie Open ahead of their tag title match, and from ZSJ to call out Bryan. That 8 Man Tag tomorrow night is going to be good stuff, and perhaps rather telling about where the PPV matches go. The only reason I don’t see Aussie Open winning against FTR is because of that big Fatal 4 Way tag contenders match, but who knows, maybe Aussie Open wins to bring the AEW belts to NJPW events as they take on like Goto & Hashi.
And of course, a great main event from Shida and Ruby. Seems a little silly to set up Ruby as a contender, wouldn’t that just end up in a Finger Poke of Doom situation with Saraya? Which therefore meant Shida was winning. Saraya VS Shida for this Title Tuesday Dynamite is going to be good stuff, but something makes me feel like Ruby is just gonna help Saraya retain. And not to be mean to Shida, but if she’s already a two-time champ, I don’t see her becoming three-time so soon. Why not get Shida in on the TBS Championship story? Britt Baker wants to be the first to have held both titles in AEW, but Shida should want that distinction, too. Then that lets us have Britt VS Shida as we should’ve gotten by now given everything else we’ve been seeing lately.
My Score: 8.7/10
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Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (9/29/23)
King VS Emperor to determine a champion!

One way or another, the US title belongs to the LWO!
Rey Mysterio defends his WWE United States Championship against friend and protege, Santos Escobar! But will things stay friendly between them?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Jimmy Uso w/ The Bloodline VS Karl Anderson; Jimmy wins.
- Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS Cameron Grimes; Theory wins.
- WWE United States Championship: Rey Mysterio VS Santos Escobar; Rey wins and retains the title.
- Charlotte Flair VS Bayley w/ Damage CTRL; Charlotte wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
The Bloodline is here!
Fans boo as Jimmy Uso, Solo Sikoa & Paul Heyman head to the ring. And Jimmy is definitely hyped over how he and Solo took down AJ Styles and John Cena, putting the tag team match at Fastlane into question. Heyman has the mic to introduce himself, but the fans keep on booing. His name isn’t “Boo,” he’s Paul! Heyman! And tonight, a rare opportunity that he doesn’t have to do this into the phone but live to the world here from SmackDown, in the hell hole of Sacramento, California. “We ACKNOWLEDGE our Tribal Chief!” The Bloodline throws up the ones, and Heyman says, “And so do each and every single one of you!”
The fans boo, though some do raise the fingers. Heyman asks us why do they acknowledge Roman… Reigns? Because it is in Roman’s name that last week, the second greatest of all time, John Cena, took a beating at the hands of the Bloodline in a way Cena hasn’t taken in at least a decade. And to wit, Heyman calls our attention to the Bloodline version of the Zapruder Film. Heyman plays footage from just last week, where Cena was the only one who signed the contract to have a match for Fastlane. Cena hoped AJ Styles was going to be his partner, but then the Bloodline struck first and hospitalized AJ Styles.
And back to present, fans are booing but Jimmy’s almost cracking up. Heyman says not to get involved in Cena’s business, but a little birdie told Heyman that there are some transportation issues this evening. And while Cena is expected to make it here, you can’t see him because Cena is NOT here. But y’know who else ain’t here? AJ Styles! And why is that? Because he’s lying in a hospital bed, watching them on SmackDown and- Jimmy holds his hand out for the mic? Heyman says he wasn’t done but Jimmy snatches the mic. “Sacramento! The Bloodline is now in your city!” Heyman sighs while Jimmy raises the one.
Jimmy tells the Wise Man, you are too kind. The real reason Cena isn’t here tonight is because he’s scared! Scared of one JIM USO! Jimmy says if Cena is smart, he’ll stay far, far away. If not, they’ll take care of him like they did the Phenomenal One! The one who built the house, place, face- KARL ANDERSON CLOBBERS SOLO! Then he TACKLES Jimmy! Jimmy gets up but Karl clotheslines him up and out! Fans fire up for Karl as he represents for The OC! Karl says he told Styles not to get in Bloodline business and now Styles is in the hospital. So now, this is OC business! Any one of them, get in the ring with him!
Fans fire up but Heyman has Solo stand down. Heyman whispers things to The Enforcer, and then Solo tells Jimmy to handle this or he’ll do it for him. Jimmy says he’s got this. Solo doesn’t return the high-five, but will Jimmy return fire on the Machine Gun?
Jimmy Uso w/ The Bloodline VS Karl Anderson!
SmackDown returns and the match is going as Karl bumps Jimmy off buckles! Then CHOPS! And fires off haymakers! The ref counts, Karl lets off but then stomps a mudhole! Karl lets off to tell Heyman & Solo they made this personal. Karl stands Jimmy up but Jimmy swings. Karl dodges to JUMP KICK! Karl says he told Styles not to get involved but too late now. Karl whips, Jimmy BOOTS back! Jimmy runs, but Karl gives him a SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Heyman is worried but Solo is stoic as Jimmy survives. Karl storms up on Jimmy, UPPERCUTS him to the corner, then UPPERCUTS again!
Karl brings Jimmy up to the top rope, ROCKS him with rights, then climbs. Solo steps forward and that distracts Karl, as well as the ref. Jimmy CLAWS Karl’s eyes! The ref misses it but fans boo as Jimmy rains down fists on Karl. Jimmy snarls, goes to a corner, and he SUPERKICKS Karl down! Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and scowls at the booing fans before the USO SPLASH! Cover, Jimmy wins!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Heyman is relieved and he whispers something more to Solo. Jimmy may be getting himself into trouble, but he’s also getting himself out, will this get Jimmy back in the Bloodline?
Wait, Karl isn’t done! He gets up to throw more hands with Jimmy! Solo storms in to hit the SAMOAN SPIKE! Solo roars as Karl is down, no back-up even possible with both Styles and Gallows hurt. Is the OC no longer a problem for The Bloodline? Wait, Michin is here! She SLAPS Jimmy right down! Fans are thunderous as she storms to the ring. Jimmy asks what the heck! Mia Yim packs a punch, will that knock some sense into Jimmy?
Backstage interview with Santos Escobar.
Cathy Kelley is with The Emperor of Lucha, and says that he faces his mentor and LWO teammate, Rey Mysterio. Where is his mind at tonight? Santos says his mind is focused, but his stomach has butterflies. But this match is about heart. And Santos has already said this is a dream match for him, and he has been working his entire life for it. Now, with the whole world watching, he has a chance to make the dream come true. He never gives up on his dreams, and he will fight for them, so Rey is in for the fight of his life. May the best man win. Will it be Emperor or King of Lucha that reigns as the United States Champion?
The Bloodline regroups backstage.
Jimmy is fuming and he yells at a production staff member just for looking at him. He asks another if they saw what happened, then just shoves the guy down! Jimmy storms off, Solo follows and Heyman has the staff relax. Then he puts in a call to Roman Reigns. What will The Tribal Chief have to say about Jimmy’s attitude?
It’s an all new Grayson Waller Effect.
The Aussie Icon, the Moment Maker, the Dynamite From Down Under is already in the ring on his set, and he says what a wild night already. Cena may be the greatest of all time, but he ain’t the greatest at being on time! Hah! But don’t worry, because Waller is here to save the show. Fans boo but Waller thanks them. Waller’s guests just keep getting bigger, and this is literal given the physical specimen. He has done everything in the WWE as a performer, but not as a talent scout. But that’s alright, he gets what he’s always been missing: the Waller rub! Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the All Mighty Bobby Lashley!
Fans cheer as Lashley makes his way out and Waller does some push-ups so he looks at least a little bigger standing next to him. They shake hands and then sit at the desk. Waller says he wasn’t lying when the guests keep getting bigger, right? How does he fit into the suit? But Waller appreciates Lashley being on the show, especially after the week he’s had. His boys, the Street Profits had a devastating loss last week. Lashley says he made a mistake. He was looking for the next big thing, he thought the Profits had what it takes to do whatever they want, but seems not. Back to the drawing board, huh?
Wow, that must be hard for the Profits to hear. But yeah, if you’re looking for a tag team, they need to be willing to do whatever it takes. A team with unbridled charisma! A team that is undefeated! Maybe a team like Austin Theory & Grayson Waller! Lashley’s stare makes Waller slow his roll. Lashley knows all about Theory, that’s a pass. Yeah, but Theory’s changed! If you get to know him, he’s a good bloke! And- Wait! Here come the Street Profits! Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins came dressed to match Lashley, and Lashley seems rather upset and confused. The Profits step into the ring, mics in their hands.
Lashley steps to them, and he stops Dawkins before he gets started. No excuses, no reasons. If they want something out of Lashley, they need to prove it. Lashley goes to leave, and then the Profits look to each other. They storm out after Lashley and get up in his face! Lashley says he told them what to do. Now go do it. He keeps on moving, and Waller says how awkward. Hey, light the beam for the 153 million hit man, Austin Theory! Theory makes his entrance, walking past Lashley on the stage, and then continues down the ramp. He smirks at the Profits and goes to the steps, with Waller being the only one cheering.
But will it be A-Town Down as Theory faces Cameron Grimes? Or will SmackDown go TO~ THE~ MOON~?
Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS Cameron Grimes!
SmackDown returns, Theory is busy looking at NXT’s Dragon Lee watching from the front row, and the bell rings. Theory turns around into a BOOT from Grimes! Grimes fires off KICKS, UPPERCUTS, and then CHOPS! Grimes whips, Theory reverses but Grimes CLOBBERS Theory! Grimes keeps moving and he CLOBBERS Theory again! Atomic drop, then KICK! Then a KICK, run, and SHOTGUN dropkick! Cover, ONE! Another cover, ONE! Theory scrambles, Grimes has the leg, and Grimes drags Theory back. Theory kicks free, Waller coaches Theory up and Theory ELBOWS Grimes! And throat chops!
Theory throws down clubbing hands while fans boo, but Theory shouts at everyone. Theory brings Grimes up, talks trash, but Grimes eggs him on! Grimes fires off fists, body shots, then backs Theory to a corner. Grimes whips, Theory reverses, then Theory runs in. Theory blocks a boot but Grimes ENZIGURIS! Grimes goes up, leaps, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Theory hangs tough and Waller relaxes. Grimes aims, and he BUZZ- NO, Theory ducks! So Grimes backflips to deadlift GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Theory survives but Grimes storms up on him in the corner. Grimes KICKS Theory against ropes!
Grimes runs, then he clotheslines Theory out of the ring! Grimes goes to the apron, and he PENALTY KICKS Theory down! Fans fire up with the Carolina Caveman as he takes it to Mr. ATL. Waller talks trash, though, and Grimes stares him down. Theory POSTS Grimes in the distraction! Waller laughs, Theory drags Grimes up and in, and then Theory slingshots. Somersault SHOTGUN! Grimes staggers into the fireman’s carry, A-TOWN DOWN! Cover, Theory wins!
Winner: Austin Theory, by pinfall
Waller’s a baller with that assist to his boy, and The Now comes out on top! Will these two look to take over SmackDown one win at a time? Theory also talks some trash on Dragon, then pie faces him! So Dragon hits back! Fans fire up but the ref keeps Theory back. Dragon is here as a guest, but Waller says Dragon can’t do nothing anyway. Will this duo hope Boy Wonder stays away from this brand?
Backstage interview with Rey Mysterio.
Kayla Braxton is with the US Champion and says earlier tonight, Santos said this wasn’t just a dream match, but the fight of their lives. What is Rey’s response? Rey says LWO is familia and will always be that. But he knows how hard Santos has worked to get here. Heck, Rey grew up watching Santos’ father, El Fantasma. So Rey has nothing but love and respect for Santos. But be careful what you wish for. Every time Rey steps in the ring, he expects the best of his opponent and brings the best in return. So Santos, like they say, this IS the fight of their lives! May the best man win. Rey seems to feel the same way as Santos, but will either man still feel good after taking a loss?
The Bloodline is beating up Ashante THEE Adonis?!
B-Fab shouts for Jimmy to stop but Jimmy stops when he says he’s stopping! Refs and producers rush in and Jimmy says okay, his bad, he’s done now. Adonis crawls away, but Solo is there! Jimmy says finish this, Solo! UREANGE through the table!! Hit Row suffers the wrath of The Bloodline, but when and where will it stop?
WWE United States Championship: Rey Mysterio VS Santos Escobar!
SmackDown returns as Zelina is ringside for both men, and Santos makes his entrance. Santos says hola to Dragon before getting in the ring. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who holds gold for the L W O!
The bell rings and fans fire up as the two tie up. They go around, Santos waistlocks but Rey works on an escape. Santos holds tight, they sit down, and Rey moves around. Rey fights up, jumps, but Santos holds on during the flying mare! Santos shifts to go for an abdominal stretch but Rey fights it to have a toehold. Fans rally and duel, Santos chinlocks but Rey pulls on the leg. Santos uses that to body scissor, and he rolls Rey to a cover, ONE! Rey is still stuck in the scissors but he moves around. Rey claws at the hold, Santos shifts and has the back mount to then roll Rey again. Rey slips free and the two stand off.
Fans cheer as Rey and Santos reset. Santos trips Rey, blocks the headscissor, but Rey gets up. Santos wrenches, wristlocks, but Rey flips through! Santos whips, Rey reverses but Santos reverses again. Rey is on the apron but he RAMS into Santos! Rey slingshots but Santos stops the rana to GAMANGIRI! Rey falls, Santos PLANCHAS! Down goes Rey at the ramp and Zelina is worried for both men as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again and Santos has Rey in a modified stretch. Rey endures, Santos shifts his grip, but Rey fights free. Santos has a hammerlock to keep Rey close, and Santos wrangles Rey down. Rey fights up, fans rally, and Rey jumps to hit that flying-mare! Fans fire up as Santos speeds things up and runs Rey over! Things keep moving, Rey dodges but Santos DROPKICKS him down! Cover, TWO! Fans rally as Rey hangs tough, and Zelina is again torn. She rallies the fans more for the LWO than for either man. Santos waistlocks, Rey switches, but Santos switches back. They go to ropes and Rey bucks the O’Conner.
Rey ducks ‘n’ dodges and tilt-o-whirls to RANA Santos outta the ring! Fans fire up and Rey builds speed, goes up the corner to PLANCHA! Down goes Santos! Fans fire up with Rey and he hears the ring count. Rey drags Santos up, puts him in at 6 of 10, and then climbs the corner. Santos stands, Rey SEATED SENTONS! Rey keeps moving, and he CLOBBERS Santos! Both men are down and fans rally up more. But wait, Jimmy and Solo are still wreaking havoc backstage? SAMOAN SPIKE for security! Jimmy says that guy won’t be Cena’s partner, either! Back to the ring, fans rally for “619! 619!” as Rey goes to ropes.
Santos stands, he rushes in to sunset flip, but Rey rolls through to BUZZSAW! Santos is dazed, Rey calls his shot and he drop toeholds Santos onto ropes! Rey dials it up as fans go wild, but Santos SUPERKICKS Rey outta the ring! Santos takes aim, builds speed, ARROW FROM HELL!! Direct hit at the ramp and down goes Rey! Santos catches his breath while he stands back up, and then he goes up the barriers? To MOONSAULT Rey on the ramp! Zelina is worried again but Santos puts Rey back in the ring. Rey staggers and goes to the far side but Santos takes aim. “This is Awesome!” as Santos spells it out, “L! W! O!”
Santos goes corner to corner, DOUBLE KNEES! Rey wobbles, but Santos puts him back in the corner. Santos goes again, DOUBLE KNEES! Santos hoists Rey up top, climbs up after him, but Rey HEADBUTTS! Rey fires forearms and he knocks Santos down! Santos stands up while Rey steadies himself, but Santos GAMANGIRIS first! Santos climbs up again, goes to the very top, and he whistles for the SUPER STEINER! Zelina couldn’t even watch that, worried for both men. Santos goes to the apron, to SLINGSHOT SPLASH! Cover, TWO!! Rey survives and Santos is a bit surprised as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns yet again and Santos has Rey against ropes. Santos CHOPS, and fans “WOO~!” as Rey staggers. Santos whips, BOOTS, and then brings Rey around. Santos picks Rey up into a GORY ESPECIAL! Rey endures being bent back, and Santos even pulls on the arms! Fans rally, Rey fights against the hold, and pops free to arm-drag! Fans fire up as REy goes to a corner, and Santos runs in, only to be put on the apron! Santos GAMANGIRIS, Rey staggers, and then Santos fires up! Santos climbs, leaps, but Rey dodges and the crossbody flops! Rey lines up a shot, runs and springboards but then Santos dodges!
Rey and Santos are both down after those belly flops, and fans rally as both men rise up. Santos runs in, scoops Rey and hits a BACKBREAKER! Fans rally as Rey staggers up, but into a tilt-o-whirl torture rack! Santos runs around with Rey, then hits a RACK DROP! Cover, TWO!! Zelina is relieved again but Santos is surprised. Rey tells Santos to bring it on, there needs to be a winner. Santos storms up to CHOP! And whip, but Rey KICKS back! Rey runs to RAN- NO, Santos blocks that! Santos swings Rey up but Rey sunset flips! TWO!! Santos escapes and even Zelina is stunned! Fans fire up again, “This is Awesome!”
Rey runs in, Santos puts him on the apron but Rey ROCKS Santos first! Then Rey goes up a corner, brings Santos up to join him, and then adjusts position to fire off hands! Fans fire up as Rey calls the shot, but Santos drags Rey into a fireman’s carry! Rey fights with elbows, then pops up to SUPER RANA!! Fans are thunderous while Santos sits up in a daze! Rey DROPKICKS Santos onto ropes! Dial it up! 6 1 9 BLOCKED! Santos drags Rey into an Alabama Lift! But Rey holds the ropes for dear life! Rey then RANAS Santos back onto ropes, redials, and 619 HITS!!! Rey hurries up top, says hey to Eddie, and hit a FROG- NO!
Santos avoids the splash, CLUBS Rey, covers, TWO into the ghost pin! TWO!!! Both men escape by nanoseconds but Santos fireman’s carries! PHANTOM- TAKEDOWN! Rey has a spladle! REY WINS!!
Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall (still WWE United States Champion)
And the greatest luchador of all time comes out the champion! Santos is stunned, but Rey offers him a handshake of respect. They are still familiar, aren’t they? WAIT! The Profits attack!! Dawkins & Ford mug Rey & Santos, this must be how they’re proving Lashley wrong! They hit Escobar with a BIG LARIAT! Fans boo but here comes Lashley! The All Mighty says that’s it! That’s what he wanted! But then here comes the rest of the LWO! Lashley CLOBBERS Wilde while Ford & Dawkins mug Cruz! But Dragon Lee wants to get in! Security keeps him back, he’s just here as a guest! So Wilde is fed to the REVELATION!
The fans boo but The All Mighty has his Profits! Will they soon run SmackDown with iron fists?
The LWO regroups.
They’ve all got icepacks in the medical trainer’s room, and Kayla walks in to congratulate Rey on the win. But before the team could celebrate the moment, they got jumped by The Profits. Santos says sorry, excuse him, but the Profits ruined the moment! Rey says they beat the Profits last week, and now Lashley and them act like they run SmackDown! LWO challenges Lashley & The Profits to a match at Fastlane! Let’s see how tough they are when it’s fair and square! What will happen when these factions go to war in Indianapolis?
WWE announces a huge signing!
Former AEW TBS Champion and rising star, JADE CARGILL, is now with WWE! She got 20 MILLION views on a video just for showing up at the Performance Center! Will a storm be coming for the WWE Women’s Division?
John Cena arrives backstage!
He pulls in rather fast and furious, and he storms right into the arena, that tag match contract in his hands! Will Cena find someone Jimmy & Solo haven’t destroyed to sign on the dotted line? Is there even anyone left?
Pretty Deadly has a video message.
“On July 14th, 2023, Elton prince suffered a devastating shoulder injury. Despite all odds, he is on the road to recovery.” It’s another rehab workout montage, but Elton is still in the wheelchair… Elton works on reaching out for hot tags, swinging chairs, ends up rolling downhill during a celebration, and can’t even poke eyes properly. But as he continues to work at it, he has the courage to stand up and tag in Kit! #YESBOY! #EltonStrong.
The Brawling Brutes are watching this.
Ridge Holland and Pete Dunne look at each other, and neither of them can even process this. Dunne feels maybe they should’ve broken Elton’s leg. The idiots. Will Elton & Kit hope they can stay far, far, far away from Northern Grit and the Bruiserweight?
Charlotte Flair VS Bayley w/ Damage CTRL!
The Queen did what she could to help The Empress of Tomorrow hold off the Evil Genius and her cohorts, but all that got them was a win for Iyo Sky and this rivalry rematch with the Role Model! Will Bayley make an example out of her fellow Horsewoman? Or will Charlotte make Bayley bow down?
SmackDown returns and Bayley makes her entrance, Iyo and Dakota right behind her. But then Charlotte has Bayley hold on so she can get a mic. Charlotte has a question for Bayley: What’s happened to you? Bayley is one of the Four Horsewomen, but now she’s just happy carrying Iyo’s bags. Bayley has become a stepping stone while Charlotte is still the measuring stick. And in the end, it doesn’t matter. Bayley is just in Charlotte’s way. She’ll beat Bayley tonight, and then challenge Iyo for the WWE Women’s Championship at Fastlane! Fans fire up for that, and the bell rings. Bayley CLOBBERS Charlotte!
Bayley fires off, all riled up after what Charlotte said. DMG CTRL cheers and high-fives Bayley. Bayley CHOPS Charlotte, bumps her off buckles, then stomps a mudhole in! Bayley ROCKS Charlotte, lets off, and brings Charlotte around to whip. But Charlotte reverses to send Bayley into the corner, and she CHOPS! Fans “WOO~!” and Charlotte CHOPS again! Charlotte whips, Bayley reverses but Charlotte goes up and out to BOOT Bayley down! Iyo swipes at Charlotte, then Bayley BLASTS Charlotte down! Bayley goes out to the apron, to then FLYING ELBOW Charlotte down! DMG CTRL is fired up as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Charlotte is up top, to CROSSBODY Bayley down! Fans fire up with Charlotte as she storms around. Bayley flounders to ropes, stands up, and Charlotte CHOPS her! And CHOPS her! And CHOPS her! And then CHOPS again! Fans fire up as Charlotte says one more, then CHOPS Bayley again! Charlotte swings, Bayley dodges but Charlotte scoops! FALL AWAY SLAM! Charlotte kips up and fans fire up again! Charlotte handsprings to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Bayley is still in this but Charlotte knows she’s tough. Bayley bails out to the apron, Charlotte storms over, but Bayley HOTSHOTS!
Bayley slides in, waistlocks, but Charlotte bucks the O’Conner, to then trip Bayley! Bayley scrambles, Charlotte steps over to drop a knee on Bayley’s knee! Bayley goes to a corner and Charlotte GAMANGIRIS! Bayley staggers, but she BOOTS back! But then Charlotte BOOTS back! Cover, TWO! Charlotte keeps her cool while the fans rally up. Charlotte steps on Bayley and goes to the corner, then goes up the corner, only for Bayley to YANK her down! Bayley puts Charlotte in the ropes, throw hands, then hits a STOCK DROP! Shoutout to another of the Horsewomen! Bayley then SUNSET BOMBS Charlotte into buckles! Bayley drags Charlotte to a cover, TWO!
Bayley tells fans to shut up, don’t cheer for her! Dakota and Iyo cheer her on, though, and Bayley fires forearms on Charlotte! Bayley mocks the “WOO~!” then CHOPS! Bayley CHOPS Charlotte again and again, runs, but Charlotte SPEARS her down! Cover, Charlotte wins!!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by pinfall
DMG CTRL can’t believe it, but their Role Model lost! The Queen is already wearing yellow ‘n’ block to match Fastlane’s logo, will she take that gold off Iyo? Bayley gets a mic to shout, “Cut the music, you idiots!” Bayley won’t let Charlotte just cut the line! Bayley vowed to end Charlotte, and that’s what DMG CTRL is gonna do! The three surround the ring, but here comes ASUKA! The Empress joins the Queen to run off their common enemies! Asuka gets a mic to shout “OI OI OI OI!” What do you idiots think you’re doing?! She won’t let them do whatever they want! Bayley says okay, they want a Triple Threat for the women’s title?! Then they’ve got it!!
Wait, what? Iyo is confused, but Bayley says this is totally what Asuka said. No, Iyo knows what Asuka said and it wasn’t that! But Bayley says this is so they can teach both Asuka and Charlotte a lesson! Bayley sticks her foot in Iyo’s mouth again, will the Evil Genius have to really work hard on a plan to survive Fastlane?
John Cena heads to the ring!
Sacramento fires up as Cena storms out, saying we’re getting serious tonight! Cena slides into the ring, contract still in hand. Cena also gets a mic, and he tells Sacramento, “I hear ya out there!” Sacramento chants for Cena and so he knows they hear him. And he knows that because last week, he said he was back to compete and that he wanted a match. The Bloodline didn’t take too kindly to that, though. They left Cena knocked out, but they also left him with the contract. This is the contract for a match with them at Fastlane. Yeah, a little lukewarm, because there’s a problem: Cena doesn’t have a partner.
Cena says tonight is very important, because now he has a choice to make. He could rip up the contract and act like this didn’t happen. Fans boo that idea. Or he could stand and fight. The fans like that! So what do you think the man who wears the words “Never Give Up” is gonna make? They cheer the second so he says that’s damn right! He will honor this contract! And if he doesn’t find a partner by Fastlane, then he will fight The Bloodline by himself in a 2v1 Handicap! But speaking of, here comes The Bloodline! Jimmy grins as he has the mic again. “Well, look who finally showed up.”
Cena’s out here talking about Fastlane? Did he not just see what The Bloodline’s been doing all night? They were sending messages! If you team with Cena, you get got by The Bloodline! Fans boo, but Jimmy goes to the apron to tell Cena, “You’re not making it to Fastlane!” But then Cena DECKS Jimmy! Solo stares Cena down, fans fire up, and Solo gets in the ring! Cena throws off the shirt because it is go time! Solo swings, misses, and Cena fireman’s carries, but Jimmy SUPERKICKS him! Flashbacks to last week, HIP ATTACK in the corner! Then Solo adds a HIP ATTACK in the corner! Then Jimmy whips Solo in for another HIP ATTACK!
Fans boo as Cena flops out of the ring. The Bloodline clears off the announce desk! They put Cena on it, and Jimmy raises the one. Jimmy goes up the steps but Solo stops him. Solo wants this one! Jimmy grins and nods and lets Solo climb. But L A KNIGHT is here!! Fans are thunderous as the Mega Star storms down, slides in, and he dodges Jimmy to BLAST Solo! And then he BLASTS Jimmy! Knight stomps a mudhole into Jimmy but Solo stops him! So Knight fires off haymakers! Solo TOSSES Knight, but misses the splash! JUMP NECKBREAKER! Jimmy is up, Knight scoops to POWERSLAM!
Fans fire up, and they spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BIG elbow drop for Jimmy! Cena is back and he TOSSES Solo! Knight TOSSES Jimmy! Mega Star and Greatest of All Time look to each other, and Knight picks up the contract! Fans are electric as Knight signs his name! Cena can’t believe it, either! He has a tag partner for Fastlane? YEAH!! Will Cena and Knight show The Bloodline whose game is it? With EVERYBODY saying… L A KNIGHT, YEAH!!
My Thoughts:
An awesome episode of SmackDown, especially with how fired up the Sacramento crowd was for everything. Great stuff with Bloodline and such, taking logical yet still exciting turns. Karl Anderson going after The Bloodline was good, because as much as Karl didn’t want Styles getting involved, but he also wasn’t going to let The Bloodline get away with this. Though, Karl didn’t really accomplish much as he got cheated in that match. That slap from Mia was great, though. Then Jimmy & Solo going on a rampage backstage was a great way to show how Jimmy is drunk with power all because he thinks Roman will have his back. Roman most certainly won’t now that Jimmy’s actions have brought LA Knight into the story. Great save from Knight, and he will make a great team with Cena.
Great “main event” match from Charlotte VS Bayley, and that black ‘n’ yellow gear is pretty cool stuff from Charlotte. DMG CTRL of course tries to help Bayley but that backfires. And then I actually like that we’re going back to Bayley talking big and putting Iyo on the spot. The Triple Threat title match is going to be great, and is actually some mad genius thinking from Bayley. DMG CTRL can now legally interfere to make sure Iyo wins against Charlotte and Asuka, but I feel like this can also bring in Shotzi or even Bianca to counteract DMG CTRL. Either way, it’ll be some great stuff to really up things in the SmackDown Women’s Division.
Hilarious vignette from Pretty Deadly, and good response from Brawling Brutes. That feud will definitely start up again after Fastlane and give us a SmackDown contender for the Undisputed Tag Team Championships. Really good stuff out of the Grayson Waller Effect with Lashley putting the pressure on the Profits. Almost thought they were gonna jump Theory since Lashley doesn’t like Theory, but I guess that would make this faction Faces since Theory is Heel. It was nice to see Grimes back, though he does lose to Theory. Dragon Lee being here tonight makes me think he is called up to SmackDown after he screws Dominik Mysterio out of the North American title tomorrow night.
And after just an awesome US Championship match, the Profits instead go after the LWO, a logical move given the back and forth between the factions. LWO wants a Six Man Tag, but does that mean it’ll be Santos, Cruz & Wilde? Or is Rey going to take one of the spots? Either way it’ll be a good time but it feels like the All Mighty Profits are going to take that one to build their momentum towards their own title goals. Lashley VS Rey for the US Championship with Santos helping feels like the move. Maybe there’s tension created as Santos costs Rey, or as Rey says Santos can’t be bending rules just to win. It just feels like something’s going to/has to change in the group dynamic.
My Score: 8.9/10
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