Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE NXT Results & Report! (6/20/23)
NXT strikes gold!
Will Seth Rollins make it to tonight?
Finn Balor kept Seth Rollins from defending his title last night on Raw, but the Visionary won’t let that stop him from making his return to NXT! Will he #BurnItDown? Or will Bron Breakker become the NEW World Heavyweight Champion?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- NXT North American Championship, Special Referee Mustafa Ali: Wes Lee VS Tyler Bate; Wes wins and retains the title.
- NXT Tag Team Championships #1 Contenders Triple Threat: Josh Briggs & Brooks Jensen w/ Fallon Henley VS Hank Walker & Tank Ledger VS Malik Blade & Edris Enofe; Malik & Edris win and will challenge Gallus for the titles next week.
- Dana Brooke VS Cora Jade; Cora wins.
- Yulisa Leon & Valentina Feroz VS Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson w/ The Meta Four; Lash & Jakara win.
- WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins VS Bron Breakker; Rollins wins and retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
Seth Rollins arrives!
The Visionary is in the building, meaning he IS going to defend his title in tonight’s main event!
The journey to become champion begins with a rush of desire.
And that desire is for gold! For the first time ever, in a two week event, every title in NXT will be on the line! Carmelo Hayes will take on the Lone Wolf next week, will Baron Corbin get shut up by… HIM? Will “The Beacon,” Mustafa Ali call the North American title match down the line as the guest referee? Will Tiffany Stratton still be the Center of the Universe? Or will Thea Hail make this into the Chase U-niverse? And since we just saw him walk in, we know Seth Freakin’ Rollins returns to where it all began! The first-ever NXT Gold Rush starts now!
NXT North American Championship, Special Referee Mustafa Ali: Wes Lee VS Tyler Bate!
The Cardiac Kid and Big Strong Boi held onto their friendship as Wes held onto this title through Battleground. But now, at Ali’s suggestion, they’re having a friendly 1v1 match to truly see who is worthy. Who strikes gold to open this big two week event?
The introductions are raised, the belt is raised (by Ali), and we see if a friendship remains after the smoke clears.
The bell rings, Wes and Bate circle and fans rally up. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and Bate powers Wes back. Wes arm-drags Bate away and fans rally up again. The two reset and tie up, then Bate gets around to a waistlock. Bate SLAMS Wes down but Wes fights up. Fans rally, Wes pries free and rolls back to waistlock Bate! Wes brings Bate up, Bate breaks the hold to switch. Bate trips Wes to get a standing toehold. Wes fights back, rolls and throws Bate, but Bate cartwheels through! Fans cheer and the two reset again. Wes RAMS Bate, then headlocks. Bate powers out and things speed up as fans duel.
Bate hurdles. Wes front flips and fans fire up! The two go again, Wes slides under, rolls back, but Bate blocks the headscissors. Bate arm-drags Wes, headlocks for a takeover, and Wes’ shoulders are down! Ali counts fast, TWO!! Everyone, even Bate, looks at Ali with surprise. Wes rolls Bate, ONE!! Ali smirks and again everyone is confused. Wes rolls, he and Bate stand up, and Bate thrashes the headlock. Bate shifts grip again and again and grinds Wes, but Wes throws body shots. Wes powers out, Bate goes up and under and baits Wes into knuckle locks, to then wrench, headlock, bait, leapfrog, but Wes blocks the slide!
Wes body scissors for a Gedo Clutch, but Ali counts slowly now! TWO, but even Bate is upset by this bias. Wes gets in Ali’s face and Ali says he’s counting! Bate rolls Wes up, but now Ali goes slow for Bate! TWO, and Bate can’t believe the gall of Ali. Ali says he’s being fair now! Wes shoves Bate and accuses him of putting in the fix with Ali but Bate shoves back. Bate says Ali is doing himself, so they should do the same. They tie up, go around, and then on the mat. They get up, into a corner, and all around. They tumble out of the ring! Ali tells them to get in but the two tie up again! Bate pushes Wes against the desk, and the fans count!
Ali says no, that’s not real! Bate UPPERCUTS Wes, Wes KICKS Bate! Ali starts now at one, and so on. Wes staggers, Bate is after him, and NXT goes picture in picture.
Bate puts Wes in at what would be Ali’s 4 count, and he brings Wes up. Wes SHORYUKENS in return! Bate flops into the ring and Ali checks him. Bate is okay to continue so Wes drags Bate up. Bate shoves Wes, but Wes facelocks. Bate fights up and wrenches out, but Wes breaks free to CHOP! And haymaker! Wes gets an arm, STRAITJACKET NECKBREAKER! Cover, Ali goes normal, TWO! Ali says he was doing a fair count, so Wes can’t complain there. Wes drags Bate up, RAMS his shoulder, and RAMS him again! Wes wrenches, RAMS Bate and knocks him down! Wes chinbars Bate and grinds him down.
Ali checks with Bate as he endures. Bate fights up, pries at the hold, but Wes shifts to a facelock. Bate lifts Wes, Wes kicks to get back to his feet. Bate keeps trying, Wes keeps keeping him down, but Bate powers up again! Bate SLAMS Wes, then HIP DROPS him! Cover, Ali counts normal, TWO! Bate keeps cool and he stalks Wes to a corner. Bate brings Wes up, UPPERCUTS, and Wes staggers. Bate brings Wes up to shove, RAM, and then reel him in for a snap suplex! Cover, Ali counts normal, TWO! Bate keeps on Wes with a facelock and grinds him down. Bate thrashes Wes but Wes endures and fans rally up.
Wes fights to his feet, but Bate UPPERCUTS! Bate shoves Wes, Wes kicks back! Bate flounders, but he comes back to tackle Wes! Wes kicks Bate away but runs into a kick! Bate underhooks, but Wes fights to back drop free! Bate gets up fast, Wes dodges his haymaker and NXT returns to single picture as Bate now dodges. Both men run, DOUBLE LARIATS take both men down! Fans fire up while Ali checks both men. Fans chant for “NXT! NXT!” as Ali starts a standing count. This is a rather fair count, and both men rise at 5 of 10. They both stand at 7, and Bate UPPERCUTS! Wes ROCKS Bate! Bate UPPERCUTS again!
Wes ROCKS Bate! Ali reprimands about closed fists but Bate comes back with UPPERCUT after UPPERCUT! Wes ROCKS Bate again and again, then throws body shots and forearms! Bate UPPERCUTS, and uses his foot to bop him! And then another uppercut! Wes goes to backslide, but Bate rolls through! Wes fires off fast strikes, snapmares and basement dropkicks! Fans fire up and Wes aims from a corner. Wes runs in but blocks a boot, only for the KNEE to hit! Bate goes up to FLYING UPPERCUT! Wes tumbles away to a corner, Bate UPPERCUTS him again! And EXPLODERS! Bate kips up and fans fire up!
Bate aims, runs, SHOOTING STAR onto knees! Cover, TWO!! Wes ENZIGURIS Bate to a corner! Fans rally, Wes pounds the mat and stands up. Wes runs in to FOREARM SMASH! Bate shoves Wes back but Wes SUPERKICKS! Wes snapmares Bate, aims from the corner, CARDIAC- NO, Bate dodges to REBOUNDER! Cover, TWO!! Wes escapes and fans fire up again! Bate goes to a corner, “This is Awesome!” as he climbs. Bate reaches the top but Wes GAMANGIRIS! Fans hope they “FIGHT FOREVER!” but this is just the start of the night! Wes brings Bate up, and aims for the outside!
Bate fights, the fans freak out, and Bate throws body shots! Bate HEADBUTTS Wes, but Wes ROCKS Bate! Bate Bop up, but DOUBLE BANG hit! Both men fall, Bate inside and Wes outside! Ali starts a ring count, watches both men, but this count seems rather quick. Ali doesn’t want it to end this way, so he gets Wes up! Ali SLAPS Wes and tells him that HE is the champion so he needs to get in and fight! But then Ali fires Bate up, too! This is a fight, so get up and fight! Wes jumps in, CARDIAC KICK!! Cover, Wes wins!!
Winner: Wes Lee, by pinfall (still NXT North American Champion)
Wes is victorious, but he’s still confused as to what Ali was up to this entire match. Ali raises both men’s hands in celebration, because he says this is what NXT is all about. If so, then who will be next to challenge Wes for the North American title?
Gigi Dolin speaks.
“I’ve always been drawn to art and self-expression. I see it as living creativity. My dreary upbringing was brightened by escaping reality and diving into the images generated in my mind. It is reflected in the gear that I wear. I’ve been rejected by friends, by family, by life. That’s what makes me unique. That’s what sets me apart from everyone else. But no matter where I walk, I have the freedom to create whatever enters my mind.” Will Gigi soon express herself with the mat as her canvas?
Backstage interview with Kiana James.
McKenzie Mitchell asks her about Gigi’s vignette. Kiana says that isn’t art, that’s a waste of real estate. Kiana doesn’t talk about her feelings, or why colors motivate her. She is motivated by results, especially in that ring. But the irony is, they’re not so different. Believe it or not, when Kiana was young, she was reckless. She broke rules, got into trouble, but unlike Gigi, she grew up. Kiana took the path towards success, and it’s called ambition. Kiana has it, embraces it, and Gigi can’t even spell it! But hey, good for Gigi being happy in the pool of mediocrity. Will the Calculator soon find emotions defy the data?
It’s time for the Chase U Pep Rally!
Duke Hudson is in the ring and says as the MVP of Chase U, it is his honor and 6’5″ privilege to welcome us here to celebrate the star pupil, Thea Hail! Fans cheer, and Duke says we have seen Thea in the agony of defeat, but also in the thrill of victory. And victory is the name of the game, as next week, Thea will defeat Tiffany to become the youngest NXT champion, male or female, in history! So rise to your feet and welcome your future NXT Women’s Champion, the one and only Thea Hail! Fans cheer as Thea breaks through the banner! Thea goes to the ring and everyone cheers her on.
Thea joins Duke in the ring, as do some Chase U cheerleaders, and even Drew Gulak & Charlie Dempsey. Thea says this is the awesomest day of her whole life! Her heart is beating so fast, because next week’s match is the biggest match of her whole life. But you look up and down the roster now, and everyone has these insane accomplishments from their time in college. Honors, championships. The biggest thing Thea’s done so far is graduate high school. She didn’t even wanna go to college. She didn’t wanna be a doctor, lawyer or even Olympian, because she’s been too busy training to become what she’s always wanted to be: a WWE SUPERSTAR!!
Fans cheer that, and Thea says she doesn’t need national championships or a Master’s Degree, because next week, SHE’S GOING TO BECOME NXT WOMEN’S CHAMPION!! Gulak gets a mic to ask if Thea said she just graduated high school. Dempsey asks what they’ve gotten themselves into. Alright, Statler and Waldorf, c’mon. This is a pep rally! Thea doesn’t know who Statler and Waldorf are. But anyway, when she got into Chase U, she was finally accepted for who she is! Mr. Chase pushed her, and she pushed herself all the way to winning that battle royal! So first and foremost, she wants to thank Mr. Chase, sitting at home watching right now. Hi, Mr. Chase! Hi!
Yes, hooray for Mr. Chase. Okay, okay, of course she has to thank the MVP of Chase U, Duke Hudson! Duke smiles and he starts an “MVP! MVP!” chant. Thea thanks him for helping her gain the confidence she needed. But of course, she also wouldn’t be anywhere without her two favorite pains in the- butt… Dempsey & Gulak! Dempsey may not smile a lot but she’s sure he’s happy she’s #1 contender! And they taught her so many amazing moves that she’ll use against Tiffany to give her a Chase U sized… Can she say it? Yeah, go ahead. ASS WHOOPING!! Duke gets a “Hail Yeah!” from the fans, but here comes Tiffany.
Tiffany says yes, hi, uh, this is all so amazingly horrible. Duke, pretty tacky if you ask her. And for who? Thea? To be real for a second, Thea was literally NO ONE’s pick to win the battle royal, and definitely not Tiff’s. But kudos, she got lucky. Congrats. And that whole celebration is so cute. But if you think that for one second that it’ll happen again, but no offense, Thea would have to be the dumbest person in the entire BUILDING! Thea says her grades are fine! Tiff says she’s not one of Chase U’s poorly educated professors, but according to her calculations, Thea’s got a ZERO PERCENT chance of winning next week. Thea says she has a zero for Tiff!
But Tiff continues to say that this is so cringe. Duke tells Tiff that like, sounds “cringe.” That that like, is fetch and all, but next week, Thea’s taking that title. And at just 19! So much heart and determination, Thea leaves it in the ring every single week. And Tiff finds that out in seven days. Now, Duke understands that Tiff does not believe in Thea, but guess what? Duke believes! Chase U believes! EVERYONE IN THE AUDIENCE BELIEVES!! Tiff says, “Don’t make me gag.” Next week, not only will Thea NOT beat Tiff, but Thea will not tap her out! But Thea gets that arm! KIMURA!!! Tiff TAPS NOW!! Even Dempsey & Gulak like that!
Thea lets off Tiff to grab that belt and run around with it! But will Thea be doing victory laps next week at the end of Gold Rush? Or will #TiffyTime deny us history?
The Schism talks backstage.
Joe Gacy doesn’t understand. Why? What is it that they’re missing? Why is it Gacy that’s losing?! Is it somehow HIS fault? Are HIS misfortunes dragging everyone down?! HUH!? ARE THEY!? Jagger Reed is the one who says yes, they are! Look, did they win? No. So yeah, Gacy’s misfortunes are dragging them down. Ava Raine can’t believe Jagger! Jagger says Gacy preaches that ruthlessness strengthens connection, and that lies- Gacy shouts at Jagger. Because… He’s right. That’s why The Dyad is hitting harder than ever. Gacy will look inside, reevaluate, but togetherness is what is important, and NOBODY can afford to forget that!
Ava says enough. The tree will not fall from one single chop. They can’t change what happened. Four roots, one tree. There is tension building in the group, will The Schism be what ends up divided?
Diamond Mine sees this.
Ivy Nile wonders about that look. Julius Creed agrees, this isn’t good. Brutus Creed walks in and asks what they’re watching. Ivy shows him Schism and asks what is even going on with them. Brutus doesn’t know, but the leaves are gonna be falling off that tree. Ivy agrees. The only reason they won the Mixed Tag is cuz Ava hit Ivy with that mask! Julius says no more excuses or bad metaphors. The Schism is still a serious threat, and always have been. They’re a legit cancer to NXT. Brutus agrees there. If Schism doesn’t wanna stay, that’s fine, Diamond Mine can send ’em packing. Ivy likes where his head is at.
Brutus agrees, though Julius’ head is pretty big. Ha ha. Brutus, can you even see his head from down there? And don’t get him started on Ivy’s dent. Hey, what about Julius’ ears? What? The three joke around, but will they have the last laugh when taking on The Schism?
NXT Anonymous is watching.
Jacy Jayne enters backstage while talking on the phone, and complains that it should’ve been her, but then someone interrupts. Jacy hangs up and it’s Lyra Valkyria. She tells Jacy that she saw what Jacy had to say about her. If she’s got a problem with her, just say it to her face. Jacy says there’s no problem. Just locker room chit chat. Lyra says she doesn’t play games. Lyra heads out and Jacy says she should’ve just kicked Lyra in the face. Well, will Lyra hear this, too?
NXT Tag Team Championships #1 Contenders Triple Threat: Josh Briggs & Brooks Jensen w/ Fallon Henley VS Hank Walker & Tank Ledger VS Malik Blade & Edris Enofe!
The Tag Division is heating up for the Summer, and best friends take on best friends take on best friends! Who will prove themselves the closer and stronger tag team to then go after Gallus?
NXT returns and Hank ‘n’ Tank make their entrance, followed by Malik & Edris. In this Triple Threat, every team has one man in, so Briggs, Hank and Malik step up. The bell rings, but Jensen BLASTS Tank off the apron! Hank sees that, and then Briggs BOOTS Hank! Brigs swings, Malik fires back, and Briggs wrenches to trip. Malik dodges the stomp, then the clothesline, and Briggs ends up knocking Hank off the apron! Malik keeps moving, leaps to sunset flip, but Briggs drags him up! Malik kicks low, DROPKICKS, and Briggs wobbles. Jensen grabs at Malik but Malik DECKS Jensen! Malik tags Edris and they coordinate.
Malik runs, BOOTS Briggs, and Edris SLING-DOGS! Edris whips but Briggs blocks. Edris kicks, whips, but Briggs CLUBS him! Tag to Jensen and then feed to a KNEE! Cover, ONE!! Jensen drags Edris up, tags Briggs back in, and they double scoop to double SLAM! Hank gets in but he gets mugged! He also gets DOUBLE SLAMMED! Jensen drops an elbow, Briggs drops an elbow! They’re fired up, but we see Gallus backstage watching this. Briggs drags Edris up, whips, but Edris reverses. Hank ‘n’ Tank trip Brigs, drag him out, and FLAPJACK him off the apron! Hank gets in, Edris dodges but Hank BLASTS him!
Tag to Tank, and Hank traps Edris so Tank can SPLASH! Hank SPLASHES, then Tank facelocks. Tank suplexes, Jensen CLUBS him on the back! Jensen, Tank and Edris brawl. Jensen headlocks, Edris powers out, and then Edris dodges so the SHOTGUN hits Tank! Edris facelocks, Jensen powers out but Malik tags in. Malik & Edris stand off with the Country Boys, but then Hank ‘n’ Tank get in! The brawl is on, Briggs & Jensen taking on everyone else! Fans fire up as Briggs & Jensen whip Hank ‘n’ Tank onto ropes! They both run, slide, and DOUBLE- TOPE from Malik & Edris!! Direct hit at the ramp and fans fire up!
Edris & Malik get Briggs & Jensen up, but then Hank ‘n’ Tank go to the apron! They get on the ropes to DOUBLE VADER BOMB!! Fans are thunderous as Hank ‘n’ Tank put Malik in the ring. Wheelbarrow SIT OUT! Cover, Briggs breaks it in time!! Hank is furious and fans thought that was it as NXT goes picture in picture.
Hank and Briggs stare down, and they fire up! Hank RAMS Briggs to a corner, RAMS him again and again and then UPPERCUTS! Hank brings Briggs around to scoop, but Briggs slips free to shove him to ropes. Tank tags in, Hank ‘n’ Tank DOUBLE SHOULDER Briggs down! And then DOUBLE FALLING HEADBUTT! Tank covers, but Malik breaks it! In a way, Malik returns the favor. Malik brings Tank up and headlocks but Tank powers up. Tank wrenches free, headlocks back, but Malik throws body shots. Malik powers out, Tank runs him over! Tank runs, but Malik drops, hurdles, then CALF KICKS!
Fans fire up as Malik tags Edris. They drag Tank up, to double suplex! Edris covers, TWO! Hank was ready, but Edris stares him down. Edris drags Tank up to throw hands, but Tank gives them back! They brawl, Tank headlocks, but Edris powers up. Briggs adds on, he and Edris double whip to run Tank over! Briggs CHOPS Edris, puts him in a corner, then TOSSES him across the way! Edris ends up in a corner, Briggs BOOTS Tank, and Briggs drags Tank up. Gallus is amused as Briggs & Jensen tag. They double scoop Tank to SLAM him! Jensen covers, Edris breaks it! Edris and Jensen throw hands, and Jensen UPPERCUTS!
Edris DROPKICKS! Edris then gets Tank up but Tank whips Edris! Tank runs in to back body block! Tag to Hank and a feed to the scoop, and SLAM! Hank covers, Jensen breaks it! Hank throws hands but Jensen gives them back! Jensen then ENZIGURIS! Edris returns but Jensen ROCKS him! And again! And UPPERCUTS! Jensen runs in to HEADBUTT! Jensen snapmares Edris, CLUBS him, then brings him around to put in the corner. Jensen stomps Hank while NXT returns to single picture. Jensen runs in to ELBOW Edris, then he tags Briggs. Briggs runs corner to corner to clothesline Edris! Feed to the WHEEL KICK! BOOT for Hank!
Hank ends up on ropes, Briggs & Jensen both run and slide to DOUBLE SHOT! They have Edris on the other side, another DOUBLE SHOT! But Malik PLANCHAS, into Briggs’ arms! Briggs tosses Malik up to CLOBBER him! Briggs runs at Edris, but into a BOOT! Edris then box jumps Briggs so he can MISSILE DROPKICK Hank! Fans fire up for Edris but Briggs short arm LARIATS! Briggs gets Edris up, gives him to Hank, and CHOPS him! Briggs runs, BOOT DDT COMBO! Fans rally up as Briggs fires up. Briggs runs in, Hank dodges, but then Edris dodges Hank! Briggs dodges Edris but Hank CLOBBERS Briggs!
Malik tags in, Edris KNEES Hank! Malik fires off on Briggs and Hank, and fans rally for “MALIK! DA FREAK!” Malik whips, Briggs reverses but Malik CLOBBERS Hank! And then BLOCKBUSTERS Briggs! Malik fires up but Tank tags in! And he CLOBBERS Malik! And he CLOBBERS Briggs! Jensen tags in as Tank whips and FALL AWAY SLAMS Malik in one fluid motion! Jensen runs in to CLOBBER Tank! And SUPERKICK! And then NECKBREAKER! Cover, but Malik kicks Jensen! Jensen throws Malik down to haul him up, GUT WRENCH BOMB onto Tank! Tag to Briggs before the KNEE DROPS!
Briggs & Jensen get Tank up, for a HART ATTACK!! Jensen WHEEL KICKS Hank, but Edris MACHO ELBOWS the cover!! Malik FROG SPLASHES Tank!! Cover, MALIK & EDRIS WIN!!
Winners: Malik Blade & Edris Enofe, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contenders to the NXT Tag Team Champions)
The song says it clearly, they’re far from rookies! Will these two finally taste some gold to end the Gold Rush?
Gallus says Malik & Edris are tooled off, but time to hit the pub. But wait, wait, Los Lotharios walk in. Gallus is so lucky that Angel & Humberto weren’t in that contenders match. Because otherwise, they’d be losing to Los Lotharios next week. Yeah, but they weren’t in the match. Hasta luego. Yeah, sure, Joe, nice hair. But will they all be taken for a ride by Malik & Edris?
Damon Kemp finds Eddy Thorpe backstage.
The Golden Gopher tells the Alpha Wolf to take the headphones off so they can talk. Wow, it took all week for Kemp to come up with what match he wanted. Uh, he had a lot of options, and Kemp knows Thorpe uses every advantage to get past him. The ring skirt, the ropebreak, hell, Thorpe probably paid the ref off, too. Yeah, yeah, excuses. But then in two weeks time, Raw Underground comes to NXT. The what? Y’know, just them and the 20-by-20. No ropes, no pins, just knockouts, TKOs or submissions. Sweet. Let’s go, then. Yeah, well, Kemp trained in the trenches of his parents’ garage. Thorpe has no idea what he just signed up for. Fine, see you then.
Wait, something just happened off screen! Roxanne Perez just attacked Blair Davenport! The refs back Roxie off but Blair actually smiles. She says if Roxie wants to play, then it’s game on. But who will be the winner when it’s game over?
Seth Rollins prepares in the locker room.
And he sees his old trainee, Nathan Frazer! Congrats on winning that giant cup thing that you have to carry now. Yeah, it’s super heavy, but it’s also the coolest thing. And congrats to Rollins on being World Heavyweight Champion. How’s he feeling after all that on Raw? Eh, not quite 100%, but that’s on him. He wanted the very best version of Finn Balor and he got it. But let that be a lesson to Frazer. And speaking of, Rollins is proud of Frazer and the performer he’s become. Pass that along. Will do. Frazer did learn from the best. And then in walks Carmelo Hayes & Trick Williams.
Trick Melo Gang introduce themselves, and they ask what’s good. Rollins spaces out, but then laughs. That got them, too! But c’mon, guys, he knows who they are! He was waiting for them to say hey. As champ to champ, what can Rollins do for Melo? Melo wants to pay respects, champ to champ. Rollins appreciates that. But hey, hey, eyes up here, not on the belt. If you wanna really respect the champ, worry about your title. Is Melo gonna beat Corbin? Oh, yes. Is Rollins ready for Bron tonight? HAHAHA… You know he don’t miss. Melo wears it well, by the way. Thanks. Welcome back, Rollins. Melo heads out, will both champs still be champs after tonight?
Dana Brooke VS Cora Jade!
After confrontations in the ring and backstage, The Flex Appeal is looking to put the entitled and selfish Generation of Jade in its place. Will Dana make it look easy? Or will nothing stop the Punk Rock Mean Girl from getting her way?
NXT returns and Dana makes her entrance. The bell rings and the two talk some trash. Cora shoves Dana, but Dana RAMS her into a corner! Dana RAMS into Cora again and again, then digs her shoulder in. Dana lets off as the ref counts, and the two tie up. Cora puts Dana in a corner, the ref counts, and fans duel. Cora SLAPS Dana, laughs, but then runs away! Dana drags Cora back in, throws her down, and dribbles her off the mat! Dana CLUBS away on Cora, then cools off. Dana whips Cora, hip tosses her, and cartwheels to BOOT her down! Cover, TWO! Dana drags Cora up, scoops her, and SLAMS her!
Dana handstands, to SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Dana stalks Cora, brings her up, and wrenches, but Cora knees low! Cora talks trash, CLUBS Dana, and says you can’t do this to her. Cora dribbles Dana off the mat, then tells fans to shut up! Cora drags Dana up, bumps her off buckles, then storms up to stomp away! The ref counts, Cora digs her boot in but Cora lets off at 4. Cora dusts herself off, then kicks Dana at the ropes. Cora smacks Dana off the mat, then soaks up the heat from the fans. Cora kicks Dana to a corner, stomps her some more, but lets off as the ref counts. Cora says she could do this all day.
Cora runs, Dana avoids the stomps! Dana dodges, handsprings, and headscissors! Fans fire up as Dana DROPKICKS Cora outta the ring! Cora goes around the way but Dana is on the apron. Cora swings, Dana handsprings over! Cora scurries into the ring, comes back as Dana is on the apron, SHINING WIZARD! Cora drags Dana outta the ropes, covers, TWO! Cora is frustrated but she SLAMS Dana’s leg on the mat. And again! Cora underhooks, but Dana wrenches out to run her over! And again! Fans rally, Dana hobbles but she runs corner to corner to handspring, only for the leg to give out!
The ref checks Dana and has Cora stay back. The ref calls in medics, they check Dana, and Cora says Dana’s totally faking. NXT goes picture in picture while medics verify this. Dana doesn’t want this to end the match but a brace is brought out. Cora taunts Dana, Dana tells her to shut up, but the medics still put the brace on Dana’s leg. Cora paces around, eggs Dana on, and Dana can’t even walk, despite the brace. Cora gets up in Dana’s face about it but Dana tells her to back off. The ref also has Cora back off, and replay shows the knee had to have been hyper extended during that shot in the ropes.
A stretcher is brought out, Dana still doesn’t wanna go, but what choice does she have if her leg is that messed up? Cora taunts Dana the entire time she’s helped to the stretcher. Cora lounges and laughs, and Dana tells Cora to get back already. More refs come out to get Cora back, and Cora just squawks at Dana more as they go up the ramp with the stretcher. Cora gets up in Dana’s face, and Dana SLAPS her! NXT returns to single picture, and Dana gets off the stretcher to fire off on Cora! Even if it means hopping on one good leg! Dana ROCKS Cora, smacks her off the apron, and CLUBS away on her!
Cora scurries away into the ring, but the ref tells Dana she shouldn’t do this with a bad leg. Dana doesn’t care, she wants after Cora! Cora rushes in, Dana rolls her up! TWO!! Dana keeps the bad leg elevated while she glares at Cora. They both rise and fans rally. Dana ROCKS Cora, scoops her, but Cora slips out to CHOP BLOCK the bad leg! Cora SLAMS the bad leg, SLAMS it again, and then steps through. Dana kicks Cora to a corner, then dodges her on the return! Dana clotheslines, and clotheslines again! And then FLAPJACKS! Cover, TWO! Dana grits her teeth, both in pain and in frustration.
Dana drags Cora up, but Cora kicks the bad leg! Cora brings Dana up, whips her to a corner, and then runs in, but Dana elbows her down! Dana hops up the corner with her good leg, and VADER- FLOPS as Cora moves! Cora SLAMS the bad leg again, then turns Dana over for a HALF CRAB! Cora sits deep, but Dana claws her way forward! But Cora drags her back! And pulls back even further!! Dana claws at her own hair, but the REF calls it! Cora wins!
Winner: Cora Jade, by referee stoppage
Cora laughs at Dana, but her win is because Dana’s spirit was tougher than her leg. Will Cora continue to inflate that ego until she’s once again a champion in NXT?
Von Wagner and Robert Stone talk.
This was before the show started tonight and no one was around. Stone asks Von why he wanted to talk with him now. Because this is where it all started. Even when all the fans were here and didn’t care, Stone did. So then what’s this picture about? Von looks at Baby Von with the surgical scar on his head. Von had Trigonocephaly. That’s something he was born with. Baby skulls are meant to stretch and grow, but Von’s had fused into place early. That limits brain growth, and there was only one way to fix it.
Von takes a breath. He was only 15 months old in that picture, and it was a surgery that lasted over 14 hours. Neuro and plastic surgeons worked on him to fix it. They didn’t even know if Von would survive. They cut him ear to ear, pulled his face down and fixed his skull. That gave him his life. Stone can’t even imagine such a traumatic experience. Von was in intensive care for a week, lucky to be alive. His dad was working to pay for the bills, and his mom never left his side. It’s just as hard for them to talk about, even today. They sound like great parents. They are. This scarring was bad, he did look different.
Four and five year old kids used to call him a monster. And all he could do was take it. Because when he looked in the mirror, he did look different. Mom would drop him off, other parents would stare and tell their kids not to stare. It was hard. Von was just a kid. Stone has kids of his own, he can’t imagine how angry he’d be as a father. Von says this is good enough for today. Thanks, Stone. Stone takes a deep breath of his own. This journey has only just begun, can Stone stick it out with Von until the end?
Eddy Thorpe reviews Raw Underground footage.
Axiom & Scrypts are there, too. Raw Underground was a wild time. Guys throwing hands, knockouts and submissions. You could get messed up if you’re not ready. Well, Thorpe has two weeks to put together his fight camp to make sure he’s as ready as possible. Axiom says it’ll be hard to find someone to copy Kemp. Kemp’s a Division I Freestyle National Champion. But then GABLE STEVESON appears! Gable heard he needs a training partner. And if anyone knows Damon, it’s him. Let Thorpe know if he needs someone. Okay, then. They shake hands, will Gable help Thorpe against the Golden Gopher?
Baron Corbin is here.
He’s in the ring, and he waits as Trick Melo Gang makes their entrance for this face-to-face. Melo tells Trick it’s all good, and Trick stays back as Melo continues to the ring. Melo has a mic and so does Corbin. Corbin says enough with the music, he doesn’t have time for all that. And he doesn’t wanna wait for the posing and whatever else. Okay, okay, let’s start off hot then. Corbin says exactly. That posing and showmanship isn’t gonna keep the title on Melo’s waist. Melo walks around as champ, but take it from someone who walked the halls here for a long time. “Having that doesn’t mean you’ve made it.”
Melo may look cool, and have the swagger, but there’s nothing Melo can say Corbin hasn’t heard, and there’s nothing Melo can do in the ring that Corbin hasn’t seen. Melo says okay, okay. Something Corbin’s never seen, huh? Like an NXT title reign of his own? Like the respect of the fans? Melo could go on and on, but he’s already accepted the challenge. Corbin says this isn’t Melo’s hometown. He’s not talking to some guy who cares if the internet thinks he’s cool. Corbin does and says what he wants, because he doesn’t care what any of the fans think, nor does he care what Melo thinks.
Fans boo that but Melo says okay. But Melo thinks that Corbin thinks he’s gonna come into Melo’s home, and bull him over and take his title. On top of all that, Corbin is somehow gonna make himself relevant again. It’s possible, but it ain’t probable. But to be honest, Melo ain’t new to this. he’s had dudes from main try and challenge him. They’ve tried to pull his card. He’s defended his territory. And where’d those guys all end up? On a T-shirt in the rafters! Fans cheer that! Melo sent them all packing, and the only difference between them and Corbin, is not a DAMN THING! Fans cheer that, too!
Melo continues to say, “So Baron, if you think beating me is gonna be the big jackpot and you’re gonna be Happy Corbin again-” Corbin stops him there. If Melo wants to bring Happy Corbin into this, do you know what Happy Corbin did for him? It got him a $1.8 MILLION house! That’s what it did. That is why Corbin is back. So that Melo and all the 20-somethings with their surface level insults, they just don’t land. Corbin’s had an 8 year career already, that most of them can only dream of. So if you wanna talk about Happy, compare things, let’s compare that. Bank accounts, lifestyles, Mania Moments.
Corbin will let Melo pick the category, cuz Melo will take that L. Corbin got all of that being a main event player for nearly a decade! Fans aren’t so sure, but Melo says okay. Corbin used to be that, so what happened? What happened to Corbin? What Corbin has is a decade on him, sure. But if you wanna talk numbers, let’s talk numbers. At 26 years old, Melo won the NXT Breakout Tournament and cashed in successfully for a title. Corbin at 26 years old, he got cut from the Arizona Cardinals. Corbin grimaces and Melo said he didn’t wanna do that, but he had to. Fans chant “CUT! CUT! CUT!”
Melo puts it like this. After awhile, this whole Us VS You, Black ‘n’ Gold VS 2.0 and beyond, Melo is over it. He gives every single star of the Black ‘n’ Gold Era their credit. They set the bar high, really high. But one thing Melo refuses to do is live his life day to day, coming in to meet Corbin’s expectations. Melo won’t meet those, he’ll create expectations of his own! Because Corbin might say this is his house, and he hasn’t been back in awhile, but go and check the deed. The name on it is MELO’S! And since Corbin left, Melo built some more rooms in the house, put in some windows, and even put a new roof up cuz he tore that b*tch down so many times!
Fans are all fired up and Corbin is beside himself. Melo says it doesn’t matter how you flip it. Money, accolades, it don’t matter. At the end of the day, Melo is still HIM! Corbin stares Melo down and says he’ll teach Melo a lesson. “If you have to come out here and tell these people every week that you are Him, if you have to come out here every week and convince yourself that you are Him, you’re not. You’re a nobody. That’s why I barely noticed you sitting behind the barricade on SmackDown. You’re insignificant. Now normally, this is the part where I crack you in your teeth and leave you laying… But I don’t need to do that.
“When I’m done with you, I’m taking that title, I’m getting in my Porsche, and I’m driving back to my big ass house. I’m putting it on my mantle, I’m sitting in my chair, and my hot ass wife is gonna pour me a drink from a bottle you can’t afford. And I’m gonna say to myself, ‘Today was a good day.’ Melo, the lesson is over.” Corbin drops the mic and heads out. A lot has been said, but who backs it all up when the Gold Rush finishes?
Yulisa Leon & Valentina Feroz prepare backstage.
Feroz says that finally, they’re together again! And Leon says she missed Feroz. She is so proud of Feroz for standing up for herself and putting in the work. And tonight, they get it done. Dragon Lee walks over and fist bumps Feroz & Leon. He says that last week, Leon & Feroz showed everyone that they are badass. Now go show Lash & Jakara. Frazer walks over and they all high-five. He wanted to catch them before their match, and say that for last week, gracias. Seriously, last week was the coolest night of his life. Without them, he doesn’t know if it’d happen. Feroz says any time, amigo. Leon agrees. Now, vaminos!
Dragon says the NEW Heritage Cup Champion, congrats! Cheers, amigo! And Frazer was talking with his mentor, Rollins, earlier. He said to take care of those who helped you, so it is only fitting that Frazer gives Dragon the first shot at this cup. Really? Then okay! They’ll do it next week! The Gold Rush just gets bigger, who will be the Heritage Cup Champion after this battle of amigos?
NXT Media catches up with Gallus.
They ask the NXT Tag Team Champions how they feel about Malik & Edris winning tonight, but Gallus ignores them. But then someone calls Joe, and he hears that there are rats at the bar. Seriously? What rats? But then Channing Lorenzo rolls up and smacks Joe with the door! Stacks goes after Joe, and shoves him in the trunk! Time to go for a ride! Where is Stacks gonna take the Iron King?!
Yulisa Leon & Valentina Feroz VS Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson w/ The Meta Four!
NXT returns as The Meta Four make their entrance. Noam Dar still feels awful over his loss, especially now that there’s nothing to put on the pedestal. But then Feroz & Leon go after Lash & Jakara! Lash scoops Feroz for that, and SNAKE EYES off the steps! Jakara throws Leon in the ring, storms up, and the bell rings. Leon SOBATS, runs, and springboards to FLYING ARM-DRAG! Jakara gets up, dodges Leon, and Lash drags Leon out! Oro talks some trash, as does Lash, and Jakara adds on. The ref has them stop and he checks Leon. Leon is dizzy but okay to continue, so Jakara puts her back in.
Jakara drags Leon up, tags Lash, and they mug Leon. The ref counts, Jakara SLAPS Leon and Lash SLAMS her! Lash hits a SPLASH, cover, TWO! Lash dribbles Leon, but who is this strutting out? Elektra Lopez y Lola Vice! Fans fire up while Lash tags in Jakara, They get Leon up, WHEELBARROW CUTTER COMBO! Cover, TWO! Jakara wraps a chinlock on Leon but Leon endures and fans rally up. Jakara shifts into a seated cobra twist and she stretches Leon! Leon endures, Jakara talks trash, but Leon fights up! Leon hip tosses free! Fans fire up, hot tags to Feroz and Lash! Feroz dodges Lash to KICK and KICK and KICK!
Feroz roars, Lash ducks the buzzsaw but not the HEEL KICK! Feroz runs, and she METEORAS in the corner! Feroz goes up the corner, leaps, and FLYING RANAS! Fans fire up with the Brazilian as she runs to METEORA again! Feroz rolls, avoids Oro’s sweep and stomps his hand! Then CROSSBODIES Oro! Oro stays up, but Leon runs in to FLY! Direct hit and down goes Oro! Dar is upset again, and Feroz gets back in. Lash BOOTS Feroz down!! Cover, Lash & Jakara win!
Winners: Lash Legend & Jakara Jackson, by pinfall
Well, it wasn’t how Dar wanted it to go, but Oro did distract Feroz & Leon enough for their team to win. Will Lash & Jakara be watching the Women’s Tag Team Championship unification on SmackDown with full attention?
WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins VS Bron Breakker!
The Visionary isn’t letting what Finn Balor did to him be an excuse to go back on his word! He is here, and he is as ready as he can be in this title fight. Will Rollins still be the one meeting The Prince at Money in the Bank in London? Or will the Big Bad Booty Nephew use this as a springboard onto Monday Night Raw?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if Rollins can still burn it down!
After the fans sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~,” they chant “WELCOME HOME! WELCOME HOME!” The bell rings, Rollins and Bron circle, and then Bron shoots in. Rollins hurdles, runs back in, but Bron avoids the stomp! Rollins avoids the grapple, kicks low, but Bron turns underhook to fireman’s carry. Rollins slips free and gives some Scott Hall fingers. Bron runs in but Rollins dumps him out! Rollins goes to the apron, aims and FLYING KNEES! Fans fire up and Rollins revels in it as NXT goes picture in picture.
Rollins smiles and he stalks Bron. Rollisn brings Bron up to CHOP him against the apron! Bron staggers, Rollins brings him around and smacks him off the apron! Rollins brings Bron around, CHOPS him against barriers, and fans fire up! Rollins is fired up, too, and that fires the fans up more. Rollins stalks Bron into the ring, but Bron CLOBBERS Rollins as soon as he’s in! Bron kicks Rollins in the bad ribs! Bron says he’s smarter than they think, and he stands Rollins up. Bron kicks the bad ribs and Rollins sputters to ropes. Bron mocks the fans, then brings Rollins up to whip. Rollins ducks ‘n’ dodges, and SLINGBLADES!
Rollins aims, kicks, underhooks, but Bron powers out with a back drop! Rollins writhes and goes to a corner, but Bron storms up. Bron RAMS a shoulder in again and again and again! The ref counts, Bron lets off at 4, and then he brings Rollins around. Bron throws a hard body shot and Rollins staggers away. Rollins kicks back, throws haymakers, then runs, but into a fireman’s carry! GUTBUSTER DROP! Rollins writhes, Bron covers, TWO! Bron smirks as Rollins bails out. Rollins sputters and catches his breath, but Bron goes out to fetch him. Bron RAMS Rollins into the apron!
Rollins hobbles away but Bron follows after. Bron wraps on a BEARHUG! Rollins endures, fights with elbows, and fans rally up. NXT returns to single picture as Rollins pries at the hold. Rollins CLUBS Bron, CLUBS him again, then CHOPS! Rollins whips, Bron reverses and RANAS! Fans still sing Rollins’ song but Bron covers, TWO! Fans rally for Rollins but Bron stalks Rollins to ropes. Bron puts Rollins in the corner, clinches and OVERHEAD Belly2Belly suplexes! Rollins writhes and fans boo but Bron just smirks as he stalks Rollins. Bron brings Rollins up, clinches again, and OVERHEAD Belly2Belly suplexes again! Cover, TWO!
Rollins sits up but Bron looms over him. Bron drags Rollins up, but Rollins CHOPS back! And CHOPS again! Bron is stinging, and Rollins CHOPS him again! Rollins whips, Bron reverses but Rollins sends Bron away to ELBOW him! Bron goes to a corner, Rollins runs in but Bron dodges! Rollins hits buckles and staggers back into a GERMAN SUPLEX! Fans chant “YOU STILL SUCK!” but Bron drags Rollins to a cover. TWO, but Bron does push-ups just to show off. Fans boo more but Bron goes to a corner. Bron aims as Rollins rises, and Bron runs in, but Rollins dodges to POST Bron! Bron clutches his arm as he gets out of the corner.
Fans rally up while both men are down. Rollins stands, runs in, and LARIATS! Bron stays up, so Rollins runs to LARIAT again! Rollins goes again, dodges Bron’s lariat to mule kick, front kick, and DISCUS LARIAT! Fans fire up with Rollins while Bron goes to a corner. Fans sing “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” as Rollins runs in. BIG forearm smash, and then a suplex, but Bron blocks it! The ribs hurt, and then Bron suplexes Rollins. Rollins knees free, then knees Bron outta the ring! Fans fire up and Rollins builds speed, to DIVE! Direct hit and down goes Bron! But Rollins keeps going, he DIVES again!
Fans are thunderous as Rollins goes again! Another DIVE and the hattrick is complete! Fans fire up and sing again as Rollins brings Bron up. Rollins puts Bron in, aims from the corner, and he runs in, but Bron bails out! Fans boo but Rollins just goes outside. Rollins runs in around the way, to LARIAT Bron down! Fans fire up again as Rollins catches his breath. Rollins looks at the desk, and fans like where he’s going with this. Rollins clears the desk off! Vic & Booker get back, but Bron grabs Rollins! Trophy lift, but Rollins slips off! SUPERKICK and Bron ends up on the desk! Fans fire up as Rollins goes up the corner!
Rollins aims, Booker says SHUCKY DUCKY QUACK QUACK for the FROG SPLASH through the desk!! Both men are down in the wreckage as NXT goes picture in picture again!
Rollins sits up, grits his teeth and clutches his ribs. Rollins and Bron are still down as the ring count starts. Both men start to crawl at about 7 of 10! And then stand and spring in at 9! Fans fire up as this continues! Rollins grits his teeth as he stands up, and he brings Bron up, only for Bron to throw body shots! Rollins throws a forearm! Bron comes back with a haymaker! Rollins comes back with a SLAP! Bron ROCKS Rollins, Rollins ROCKS Bron, and Bron throws another body shot! Rollins throws one in return! And another! And another! And then forearm after forearm! Bron knees low! Bron runs, into a BOOT!
Rollins runs, but into a THESZ- NO, Rollins catches Bron to BUCKLE BOMB! Cover, TWO!! Bron is still in this as NXT returns to single picture! Fans rally up, Rollins rises, and he waits on Bron. Bron stands, and Rollins ROLLING ELBOWS! And then the turn, but Bron powers out to waistlock! Rollins victory rolls, TWO! Both men stand, Rollins gets around to roll Bron up, TWO! SUPERKICK! Bron flops over and Rollins goes up top! FROG SPLASH FLOPS as Bron moves! Double-edged even if he were to hit it, Rollins takes even more damage from that crash landing! Bron brings down the straps and roars!
Fans boo as Bron gets the arms! STEINER RECLINER!! Rollins endures, fans rally behind him, and Rollins reaches out! Rollins powers the arms free and crawls forward to the ROPEBREAK! Bron lets go in frustration, and Rollins goes to a corner. Bron runs in but Rollins BOOTS him! Rollins goes up again, but Bron springs up after him! SUPER STEINER! Bron scoops Rollins to the trophy lift, BREAKKER SLAM!! Cover, TWO?!? Rollins survives and Bron can’t believe it! Bron goes to a corner as fans rally up, and he runs in to- A KNEE!! Rollins knows the Spear too well, and he hits a PEDIGREE!! Cover, TWO!??!
Now Rollins is shocked! But Rollins also fires up and he drags Bron back up for a forearm, the turn, and the DREAM SMASHER! Fans chant “BURN IT DOWN!” as Rollins runs, but into a SPEAR!! Cover, TWO!!! Rollins also knows how to survive a Spear! Fans chant for “NXT! NXT!” as Bron rises again. Bron goes back to a corner, takes aim, but then decides to go up the corner. Fans boo as Bron leaps, into a SUPERKICK! CURB STOMP!! Rollins goes to another corner and the fans are thunderous! “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” CURB STOMP AGAIN!!! Cover, Rollins wins!
Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall (still WWE World Heavyweight Champion)
And the singing continues! The Visionary holds on to the title, and is still heading to London. But he seems to nod some respect to Bron. Will Bron simply have to wait until it’s his time? Or will the mountaintop always belong to Seth Freakin’ Rollins?
WAIT! FINN ATTACKS AGAIN!!! Raw wasn’t enough, Finn followed Rollins back to NXT just to add damage to those ribs!! Security drags Finn off but Finn attacks them now! Finn RAMS Rollins into the apron, puts him back in the ring, and gets a chair!! Finn JAMS Rollins’ ribs, then SMACKS him on the back! Fans boo as Finn throws off his jacket and goes up a corner. Finn again says he’s waited seven years. But wait! Trick Melo Gang rushes out! Finn gets away, eyeing the World Heavyweight title as he goes. Will nothing stop The Prince from taking Rollins’ throne?
My Thoughts:
For a seemingly random time to do themed episodes, Gold Rush Part 1 was an awesome night for NXT. For one, awesome opener out of the North American Championship. I just had a feeling Ali would be up to something, and he basically tried to cheat it so Bate would become the new champion. A very unique dynamic where the Heel in the match isn’t even really in the match. But in the end, Ali costs Bate for all his trying to make this a heated match, and I’m sure this leads to Wes VS Ali, possibly at Great American Bash. It is rather frustrating that Ali, as great as he is in the ring and as a character, hasn’t been given any title reigns, so maybe a two-faced Heel Ali cheats the title off Wes, ending Wes’ record-setting reign.
Good promo from Gigi and Kiana to further their feud, and good NXT Anonymous promo to add to Jacy’s feud with Lyra. Both of those matches will be very good, and help each of the Faces build some momentum in the title race. Really fun pep rally promo from Chase U, and I like that even Dempsey & Gulak were happy for Thea when she put Tiff in her place with that armlock. At the same time, all this puts the go-home math in Tiff’s favor, this will definitely be her win next week. But even so, Thea will look great in her defeat, though I bet Dempsey & Gulak will go right back to being upset with her. And as they bully her, Andre Chase will make a triumphant return!
Really good Schism promo and good response promo from Diamond Mine. I’m honestly not sure what The Schism is to do if Gacy has yet to get any gold. There could be a Losers Leave NXT match out of Schism and Diamond Mine, or even just a match that determines if Schism stays Schism. And while Kemp could’ve chosen anything, I’m actually rather surprised he went with a “Raw Underground” match. That will be a really good technical match, since there won’t be ropebreaks to save anyone. Also, nice little wink wink, nudge nudge type deal bringing in Gable Steveson, who is Damon’s real-life brother. There’s a chance Gable is Face, but there’s also a chance he’s just setting Thorpe up to fail so that Gable and Damon can be a team.
Awesome Triple Threat Tag, and I’m again thankful for being able to pause with the DVR. As good as all the teams in the match are, I am very happy to see Malik & Edris win. They’ve been putting in the work, progressing as characters as well as wrestlers, and now they have their opportunity. Granted, after Stacks kidnapped Joe Coffey, the titles are still only changing hands should Stacks & Tony D’Angelo get another shot. But much like Thea Hail against Tiffany Stratton, Malik & Edris will have a great showing against Gallus.
Dana VS Cora was really good, though I feel like the drama about the bad leg was a couple minutes too long. Though, I guess those were the exact two minutes the had to cover during picture in picture commercial break. But anyway, of course Cora wins for that, and she’ll just have a bigger ego. Really good women’s tag match, too, though of course Meta-Four’s distractions help Lash & Jakara win. The real interesting part of that was seeing Elektra & Lola show up. I don’t know if they were scouting Leon & Feroz to recruit or to set up a feud, but it would all make sense given the short feud between Elektra and Feroz while Leon was injured.
Very good promo stuff from Rollins, Frazer and more, and I like that Frazer VS Dragon was made through friendly terms. They’re going to have a killer match, but who knows who, if anyone, will be in either man’s corner. Melo and Corbin had a really good promo, and I really thought Melo was gonna dig at Corbin not making the cash-in, but I suppose that was kayfabe while Corbin getting cut from the NFL was shoot and that hits harder. Corbin does a good job shaking it off to use his real-life standard of living against Melo, but it also doesn’t really land for me because who cares? That money is just money but the title is the title, and Melo’s definitely retaining.
The most powerful promo of the night was Von’s with Stone, because he shared a legit life story that’s really heart-wrenching. Von’s been the big bad wolf this whole time, but now you see why he sharpened those fangs. There’s half a chance that, as soon as a Heel takes a title, Von will be right there to go after them as a new Face. And then, what an awesome main event from Rollins VS Bron. Bron can hang, no question, and #MeanerThanEvil seems to work for him better than Mr. 2.0 brightly colored badass. But naturally, Rollins wins, and then to great surprise, Finn shows up to just keep beating Rollins up. Rollins will still go to MITB, of course, but he’s really going to be backed into a corner with this much damage to his ribs.
My Score: 8.9/10
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London calling to the champion crowns!
SmackDown brings gold to London as LA Knight defends his WWE US Championship and The Street Profits defend their tag team titles! Will the landscape change this close to WrestleMania?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly; The Profits win and retain the titles.
- Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice w/ Chelsea Green; The Secret Her-vice wins.
- WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman; Braun wins, by disqualification, and Knight retains the title.
- Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab; Charlotte wins.
- Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre; McIntyre wins.
- Jimmy Uso VS The Miz; Jimmy wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes is here!
We follow The American Nightmare as walks to gorilla, then through the curtain, and London sings along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, says hello to fans along the ramp, and then we get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro. Cody goes to the ring, grabs a mic, then kneels down to kiss the WWE logo on the mat. The fans continue to sing along all the way to the end, “I AM MY KINGDOM!” The fans then cheer, and Cody holds up the belt to fire them up even more! The fans now sing for “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and he soaks it in. The fans cheer again as Cody smiles, and he finally says, “So, London~! Whaddya wanna talk about?”
The fans chant “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Cody hears that dueling, and he smiles again. The song of “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” returns, then they cheer. Cody says, “At WrestleMania 41, I will be facing John Cena…” The fans boo, but Cody says, “I will be facing John Cena as he goes to break the record and win 17. But that is WrestleMania 41. In just a few nights, I will be standing face to face with John Cena in this very same city, in this very same arena.” The fans cheer that, but then here comes Randy Orton! Now the fans sing along with Voices as The Viper heads to the ring. Orton also high-fives fans before he joins Cody.
Orton grabs a mic, paces while the fans keep singing on their own, and then the fans cheer. Orton says he’s not really the sentimental type, but for Cody and for London, screw it. The fans chant “R K O! R K O!” and Orton tells Cody, “Look at you. Look at who you are now, the man you are now. Look at where he came from.” The fans cheer and sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” and Orton says he remembers a Cody in his early 20s, just breaking into the business. Cody was busting his ass harder than anyone else. He wasn’t exactly happy, and in fact, he was frustrated. But Cody was man enough, smart enough, to know he needed to grow, and that he couldn’t grow in the WWE.
Cody wasn’t exactly treated fairly in the WWE, so Cody left the WWE! That took some big ass balls to do what he did! Cody changed the business singlehandedly, and everyone in the back knows it. And Orton appreciates Cody for it. But then Cody came back, as they all knew one day he would. And the industry has been changed forever since the day Cody came back to the WWE. Cody is a bit teary eyed as Orton says Cody’s still the same guy, he just did what he set out to do, and he grew. Orton teases he would sing along with the fans, but the fans might leave. The fans again sing “CODY! CODY RHODES~!”
Orton asks if they remember when Cody Rhodes faced Seth Rollins in Hell in a Cell. The fans cheer because they do. Orton says that was impressive, and even impossible, as he started with a partially torn pec and then ended with a fully torn pec! His body changed all kinds of shades of purple that Orton’s never seen on a human body. The pain he must have been in. Cody persevered not just for himself. Maybe not even at all for Cody. It was not even for his family legacy; it was for each and every single fan out there! Then Cody went on to WrestleMania, beat Roman Reigns and finished the story!
But there’s always another story, isn’t there? And Cody’s right in the middle of one. Cody is in charge of his legacy, and it is a privilege for Orton to watch Cody take control of it. Ticket sales have been up, there’s more intrigue around the world, and listen to the people! It is 99.9% all because of Cody! The fans cheer that, and of course they sing. Orton says what he’s trying to say is a long-winded version of he respects Cody, loves him, and is very, very proud of him. The fans cheer that! Orton then says, “But… But now it is time for WrestleMania.” They both look to the sign, and Orton says he can guarantee Cody that Orton will kick Kevin Owens so hard in the head…!
Orton can just feel it already! He forgets how many days are left, but he can’t wait to remove Kevin’s head from his shoulders. And Orton knows Cody will enter champion, exit champion, but not before he beats the holy hell outta Cena all up and down the Vegas strip! But after all the smoke clears and the dust settles, just like Orton wants Number 17, there will come a time when Orton will want Number 15. But Orton won’t kick Cody in the balls like a coward. Orton will look Cody in the eye because he respects Cody, is proud of Cody, and sees him as an equal. Orton will look Cody in the eye and tell him that he’s coming for the title.
The fans cheer but wait! Drew McIntyre is here! The fans cheer the Scottish Terminator as he steps out on stage, mic in hand, and has a wry smile on his face as he looks at the ring. Drew waves as the fans now sing, “OH~ Drew McIntyre~!” Drew says, “Isn’t this wonderful? A couple of nepo babies having a love fest in the middle of the ring> It makes me absolutely sick. What’d you just say, Randy? if Cody gets through Cena at WrestleMania, you’re coming for that title? What exactly have you done since that big comeback to justify that title match? Aside be Randy Orton. The only big moment I can remember is you being on the shelf for months and months and months.
“People like to make jokes about it, but more people talk about my five-minute-45-second title reign than your entire comeback so far! So get to the back of the line, sunshine! As for you, Cody, you should’ve listened to me. But you shunned me. You attacked me. Everybody should’ve listened to me about John Cena, but they didn’t. And the next night, he kicked you right in the twig ‘n’ berries, proving me right as usual. And the main event of WrestleMania should be Cody Rhodes VS The UK’s only ever world champion, Drew McIntyre!” Fans do like that idea. But sadly, it’s not, because of that guyliner wearing Temu Undertaker, Damian Priest!
Drew wants to talk about what is happening. And what’s gonna happen! Drew steps up to the ring while fans sing for him again. Drew says it will not be Randy that takes the title from Cody, should he get through Cena; it’ll be McIntyre. The fans cheer, but Orton says they were trying to have a moment. Can Drew just cut the crap already? Drew says okay, sure. He’ll tell the truth, because that’s all he ever does. The truth is, Kevin might have a point! If those Voices are talking to Orton again, then they know Drew very, very well. And he’s thinking, “My God, Randy looks great! Absolutely jacked! On the outside.”
On the inside, that back is hanging by a thread. And if Orton provokes McIntyre, McIntyre will break him. And as for Cody- Cody kicks Drew and UPPERCUTS him! The fans fire up, and Orton R- NO, Drew gets away! The fans boo, but the battlelines are drawn! Even if Cody makes it out of the frying pan that is Las Vegas, it’ll be into the fire that is these contenders waiting in line! Will the American Nightmare be ready for whoever comes for the crown?
WWE Tag Team Championships: The Street Profits VS Pretty Deadly!
Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins are finally golden again, but it’s time to put the titles on the line already! And while they’re ready for the grind, they’re up against the hometown heroes! Will the Profits still be up in the O2? Or will Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say #YESBOY to a new reign of their own?
The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really wants the smoke!
The teams sort out and Kit starts with Dawkins. They tie up, Dawkins headlocks, but Kit powers up and out. Dawkins runs Kit over, the fans fire up, and Dawkins fires hands on Kit in the corner! The fans rally for Pretty Deadly, Dawkins whips Kit to a corner, but Elton takes that bump! Kit CLOBBERS Dawkins, then tags Elton! Atomic drop into DROPKICK! Ford runs up, but into a DOUBLE HIP TOSS! Dawkins whips, Elton reverses, and then Elton hurdles so Kit can DDT! The fans fire up with Pretty Deadly while the Profits bail out. Pretty Deadly has control while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Elton is right on Dawkins as he gets in, and UPPERCUTS him to the corner. Elton clinches Dawkins for another UPPERCUT! Tag to Kit, and Elton RAMS into Dawkins so Kit can UPPERCUT! Dawkins flops over, Kit drags him up to wrench the arm. Kit whips, Dawkins reverses, but Kit grabs ropes. Kit ELBOWS Dawkins, DECKS Ford, but Dawkins CLOBBERS Kit! The ref reprimands but Dawkins RAMS Kit into the corner again and again! The ref counts, Dawkins fires fast hands, then he tags in Ford. Ford says, “SUCK IT!” then he KICKS Kit! Ford scuffs Kit, then drags him to a cover, TWO!
Ford keeps Kit down with a facelock, but Kit endures the grind. Kit fights up, fires body shots, but Ford whips him away. Kit sunset flips! Ford rolls through, and PENALTY KICKS! Ford mocks Elton with the Scott Hall fingers, and the ref has to keep Elton back. Ford drags Kit up, tags Dawkins, and the Profits mug Kit. Dawkins CLUBS Kit down, then stalks him. Dawkins stays between Kit and Elton, then whips Kit into the Profits’ corner. CYCLONE- NO, Kit dodges! Ford tags in, he keeps Kit from Elton now, but Kit slips out of the suplex! Kit fakes high to go low, hot tag to Elton! Elton rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT!
Elton kicks and whips Ford to a corner, then UPPERCUTS! Elton whips the other way, UPPERCUTS again, and then does it again! Elton adds to the hattrick with a lift, Ford says a quick prayer before the SUPLEX! Ford flounders, gets to his feet, but Elton dodges to springboard and FLYING UPPERCUT! Cover, TWO! Ford stays in this, but Elton stays on him. SmackDown returns to single picture and fans rally for Pretty Deadly as Elton gives Ford a back suplex. Ford lands out, waistlocks, but Elton switches and shoves Ford. Ford CLOBBERS Elton in return! Ford is also dazed but he covers, ONE!
Kit reaches out, Elton and Ford both crawl, hot tags to Kit and Dawkins! The fans fire up as Dawkins wrenches Kit, underhooks and SILENCER! Dawkins Electric Chair Lifts Kit, Ford climbs, but Kit slips free! Kit shoves Dawkins into Ford! Ford falls to the floor, but Dawkins ENZIGIRIS Kit! Elton tags in, and Kit LARIATS Dawkins! Pretty Deadly combine for DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Dawkins survives and the Profits are a bit unsure of what to do next. Dawkins crawls to a corner, Elton runs up, but Dawkins dodges! Elton hits buckles and Dawkins TOSSES Kit, then Dawkins hits a SKY HIGH on Elton!
Dawkins hurries to tag Ford and Ford climbs up! But Kit pushes Elton out of the way! Kit takes FROM THE HEAVESN, and Elton ghost pins Ford! TWO!! Ford escapes, and he ROCKS Elton! Elton UPPERCUTS Ford! Dawkins sneaks a tag, Ford SUPERKICKS! POUNCE SAIDO COMBO!! Cover, KIT BREAKS IT! The fans fire up while all four men are down! The teams go to opposite ends, then they all stand up in the corners. They all roar, all run in, and Kit SPEARS Ford while Elton FLYING UPPERCUTS Dawkins!! London is thunderous, and Kit hurries to tag in! Pretty Deadly gets Dawkins up, for SPILT MILK!! Cover, FORD BREAKS IT!
The fans are shocked, as is Elton, but Ford saves this for his team! “This is Awesome!” as Ford runs up and Elton TOSSES him out! Now DRY MARTI- NO! Dawkins doesn’t accept the second serving, and he DUMPS Kit out! Kit skins the cat while Dawkins DECKS Elton! Dawkins catches Kit to an Electric Chair! Ford rises, DOOMSDAY BLOCKBUSTER!! Cover, Profits win!
Winners: The Street Profits, by pinfall (still WWE Tag Team Champions)
Pretty Deadly put up a heroic fight, but the hometown heroes could not capture the gold. Dawkins & Ford hold onto the gold, will this be the strongest the Profits have ever been?
Kayden & Katana talk with Zelina Vega.
Carter & Chance know La Muneca got screwed over by The Green Administration. Chelsea thinks she’s untouchable, but someone’s gonna stop them eventually. Well, speaking of, Alba Fyre leads the way in as she & Piper Niven “scope the perimeter.” There’s one small threat. They frisk the “miniscule” threat, but nothing they haven’t dealt with before. Chelsea struts in and says, “The Eagle has landed~!” Zelina says she is so glad the “Bootleg Men in Black” have crashed the party. Now, yeah, they all know she’s small. But clearly this small “threat” is a big threat to Chelsea’s title reign. Otherwise, it wouldn’t have taken all three of them to beat her.
KC Squared agree with that. How about tonight, we see what happens when the odds are even? Chelsea says that’s fine, because Agents P & A are ready. The Secret Her-vice has been given their next mission, but will they be able to crash the party? Or will the party crash them?
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS The Secret Her-vice!
SmackDown returns and The Green Administration makes their entrance. The teams sort out, Alba starts against Katana, and the two tie up. Alba KNEES low, CLUBS Katana down, then fireman’s carries. Katana fights free, tags Kayden, and they KICK, double whip, and then trip Alba up for the basement DROPKICK! Katana adds a slingshot SENTON, Kayden covers, TWO! Kayden tags Katana, they double whip Alba to a corner, then Kayden runs in. Alba DUMPS Kayden out, ROCKS Katana, and she tags Piper! Katana arm-drags Alba out, then goes out to run up. Kayden gives her a boost, Katana CROSSBODIES Alba down!
The fans fire up, but Piper goes up and out?! CANNONBALL and down goes KC Squared! Piper salutes Chelsea and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Kayden rallies on Alba while the fans rally up. Kayden fires up, runs in and whips, but Alba reverses. Kayden wheelbarrows, victory rolls, then SUPERKICKS! Kayden fires up again but the fans are torn. Kayden runs in at Alba to BOOT WASH her against the ropes! Chelsea protests, Kayden kicks at her, then Kayden springboards for a LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Alba survives, Kayden whips, but Alba KICKS back! Tag to Piper, but Kayden jackknife bridges Alba! The ref explains bout the tag, Piper runs up, but Kayden moves! The SENTON hits Alba! Piper panics, Kayden tags Katana!
Katana goes up onto Kayden’s shoulders, VICTORY ROLL LAUNCHER, but Piper catches Katana! Katana fires hands, BOOTS, and then hurries to go up again. Kayden ROCKS Piper, and fireman’s carries?! SAMOAN DROP! Kayden then gives Katana the boost, for the KEG STAND SPLASH!! Cover, ALBA BREAKS IT! Kayden runs up on Alba to BOOT her out! Katana gives Kayden the boost now, SUPER CROSSBODY onto Alba! Kayden hurries to tag back in, and she brings Piper up. Piper swings, Kayden dodges and SUPERKICKS! Katana goes up, Piper staggers over that way, but Chelsea distracts the ref!
The fans are torn as Alba grabs Katana. Katana kicks Alba down, chases Chelsea off, but Piper sends Kayden into her! Piper scoops to PIPER DRIVER!! Cover, Secret Her-vice wins!
Winner: The Secret Her-vice, by pinfall
The Women’s US Champion helps her team, and now they all mug Kayden & Katana! But here comes Zelina! Vega runs down the ramp, CLOBBERS Alba, and then she gets in the ring! Zelina tilt-o-whirl DDTS Piper! And she KNEES Alba off the apron! But Chelsea CLOBBERS Zelina! Chelsea fires up, the UK is oddly with her, and she chicken wings Zeina. But Zelina fights free to fire forearms and body shots! And a BACK ELBOW! Zelina reels Chelsea in, CODE- SUPERKICK from Alba! SENTON from Piper! The Green Administration is just too much for Zelina to fight against alone! But can she, Kayden & Katana find a way to turn things around?
WWE United States Championship: LA Knight VS Braun Strowman!
Did the Mega Star just get this title back from Shinsuke Nakamura? YEAH! Did he help the Monster of All Monsters fight off Solo Sikoa’s rouge bloodline? YEAH! And now, does he have to defend this title against the monster he just helped? YEAH!! But will Knight still reign this close to WrestleMania? Or will Braun #GetTheseHands back on a championship?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and it’s time for Knight’s biggest challenge, YEAH!
The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two circle. The two tie up, and Braun SHOVES Knight away. Knight comes back, Braun SHOVES him down again! Knight gets up, gets around, and he headlocks. Braun powers up to back suplex, but Knight lands out! Knight tries but Braun’s too big to suplex! Braun ELBOWS Knight, storms up on him, but Knight fires haymakers! Knight whips, Braun reverses, but Knight KICKS back! Knight runs, but Braun HIP TOSSES! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this, but Braun brings him up. Braun puts Knight in a corner, CHOPS, then runs, for a SPLASH! Knight sputters along ropes, Braun keeps moving, but Knight DUMPS him out!
The fans fire up as Knight then WRECKS Braun with a dropkick! Knight keeps moving, and he WRECKS Braun again! The fans fire up with Knight, but then Braun BOOTS Knight down! The fans are torn but Braun stands tall as SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and Braun puts Knight back in the ring. The fans cheer as Knight KICKS Braun! Knight tries again, but Braun’s still too big to back suplex! Braun CLUBS Knight, then runs in at the corner. Knight BOOTS Braun, goes up, and FLYING BULLDOGS! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Knight and Braun rise back up, and Knight dodges a shot to JAB! Then he dodges to JAB! JAB! JAB! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” But Braun KNEES low! Braun scoops, Knight slips free, and Knight RAMS Braun into buckles! Then the BACK SUPLEX! The fans fire up and Knight rises again! Knight spells it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO!
Braun has plenty left in the tank but the fans rally for Knight. Knight stands Braun up to kick low, but Braun THROWS Knight away! Knight rises, and Braun LARIATS Knight up and out! The fans fire up as Braun rips the shirt! Braun gets on the track, and he runs in, STROWMAN EXPRESS MEETS JACOB FATU!! The Samoan Werewolf strikes Braun down!
Winner: Braun Strowman, by disqualification; LA Knight retains the title
The fans boo as Jacob now goes after Knight! He just ruined what was becoming a great match, but Jacob fires HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT on Braun! SAMOAN DROP onto the desk!! The desk doesn’t budge, but Braun might’ve been broken in half! The UK fires up for Fatu as he puts Braun in the ring! Jacob fires more HEADBUTTS, then HEADBUTTS away on Braun in the corner! The fans sing “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE, FATU~, FATU~!” Jacob runs corner to corner, but Knight kicks him first! Knight fires haymakers, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Jacob denies the BFT to POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! And then HIP ATTACK for Braun anyway!
Jacob keeps going, HIP ATTACK for Braun again! Jacob throws off his jacket, glares at Braun, and he runs in for a third HIP ATTACK! Braun flounders into the drop zone, so Jacob goes up, up, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Direct hit on Braun, but the fans want that “ONE MORE TIME!” Jacob obliges, BEST MOONSAULT EVER! The Samoan Werewolf just tore up #OneBigSOB and LA Knight, will there be no stopping him from taking the United States Championship?
Backstage interview with Jimmy Uso.
Jackie Redmond is with #BigJim, and she says that while she knew WWE was going global this month, she did not know they’d get the slap heard ’round the world! Jimmy says he’d do it again, and he’ll slap Gunther as many times as he needs! Jimmy knows Jey is up in his own head, doubt is creeping on him. But just because Jey’s 0-3 against Gunther doesn’t mean Gunther’s unbeatable! The Ring General CAN be got! Jimmy’s going to Raw this Monday, he will bust Gunther’s ass, Jey will go to Mania and bust Gunther’s ass to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion. And then they leave Las Vegas just like this: YEET!
Jimmy heads out, but then The Miz & Carmelo Hayes walk by. Miz is mocking Jimmy’s words, and he asks excuse me. Miz says it’s just funny that suddenly, Jimmy is a tough guy, even though for most of his career, he’s been “The Other Uso.” Doesn’t Jimmy get it? Jimmy and Jey are career sidekicks while Gunther is a main character. Gunther is the lead, neither Jimmy nor Jey can beat him. And here’s another thing: The Usos are just blips on the trailer that was Roman Reigns’ Bloodline. Melo says Jimmy & Jey are stuck outside the club, they can’t even get in.
Miz says as a former WWE Champion, a former WrestleMania main eventer, Jimmy will never know what it is to carry this industry. And after this year’s WrestleMania, neither will Jey. Oh, and by the way, if Jimmy ever slapped Miz like that, Jimmy would still be on the ground. Jimmy feints the slap and Miz freaks out. Jimmy says it may be him and Gunther on Monday, but he’ll holler at Aldis real quick so it can be Jimmy VS Miz here tonight. Yeah, YEET! Jimmy heads out, Melo says he thought Miz was gonna do something about the slap. Will Miz have to do something about running his mouth before he gets his teeth kicked in?
Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga find Jacob Fatu backstage.
Solo asks Jacob what the Hell he was doing out there. Jacob goes out there alone without saying a thing to them? Jacob says he ain’t gotta say nothing to nobody! Matter fact, didn’t Solo not tap in with him last week? Tama says, “But Jacob,” only for Jacob to say, “But nothing, Tama!” Solo wants Jacob to lower his tone, but Jacob says okay. Let him be very clear with them. When it comes to Braun Strowman, Jacob WILL be the last man standing. Y’all better get in where you fit in, cuz that US title? Oh, Jacob’s bringing it home to the family. And he will do it with them, or without them! Yadada mean? Fatu heads out, is the Samoan Werewolf no longer following Solo?
Naomi speaks.
“I mean… How did we even get here? I don’t know. One thing that I do know is that I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. I’ve always been the woman to do the right thing. So Bianca, what makes you think that my attack on Jade was anything different from me doing the right thing? When I sit here and I think about all that I’ve sacrificed, all that I’ve given, and that’s what really breaks my heart. Because through all of that, I’m made to be the bad one in this situation. I just don’t understand, how does Jade come in outta nowhere and take my place with you? I want you to ask yourself this, Bianca. Who inspired you? Hmm?
“Who’s inspired women over the last decade? Who’s always had your back from day one of you being here? Me. Not Jade. Hmm. But you know what? What I’ve learned through all of this: You teach people how to treat you. And I’m done with being treated as a third wheel. I’m done being pushed to the side, I’m done with being too nice, I’m done with being undervalued, underutilized, underappreciated! So moving forward, hmm… Moving forward, here’s my message to you, Jade. If you continue to be in my way, I strongly advise you to proceed with caution.” The Glow shows her dark side, but will the storm be moved?
Nick Aldis meets with Jade Cargill.
Speaking of, the SmackDown General Manager understands things have been rather difficult for her as of late. Jade says she’s been trying to get her hands on Naomi for the past few weeks, now where is she? No one has seen her all day, so as far as anyone knows, Naomi’s not here. Well, when Jade catches Naomi, it’s on sight. Jade leaves, B-Fab & Michin are there. They let her know that what Naomi did to her was straight trash, totally uncalled for behavior. And after Jade gets her hands on Naomi, she’ll handle that business. Jade agrees. Mia says they’ve all got business to handle. Jade’s got Naomi, and Mia’s gonna get Charlotte for messing with her girl, B.
B-Fab says Naomi’s got what’s coming to her: no sympathy, no regrets. Jade, just do what you gotta do. Oh, she will. Jade also wishes Mia luck tonight. Mia & B-Fab head out, will the Head Baddie in Charge make the Queen bow down in London?
The darkness approaches.
“You are as I was. As I am, you will be.” The shadows are starting to take shape, but is SmackDown about to fade to black?
Charlotte Flair VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab!
The Queen looks down on everyone, so it’s no surprise that everyone else wants to take her down. Charlotte may have checked off B-Fab, but will the HBIC be a much different story? Or will Charlotte only sharpen her edge before facing Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania?
WAIT! NAOMI ATTACKS B-FAB & MICHIN! Naomi drags Mia up for a FACEBUSTER! Naomi rains down fists, the ref reprimands and the fans boo, but Naomi tells the ref to back off. Naomi then BOOTS B-Fab off the apron! Naomi goes out after B-Fab to THRWO her into barriers! Naomi SLAPS B-Fab, tells her to stay down, but B-Fab gets up. Naomi fires hands, then she SMACKS B-Fab off the desk! Naomi rains down fists, but here comes Jade! Jade hurries down the ramp, she runs around the way, but Naomi runs away! Jade makes sure B-Fab is okay, but refs have to help her to the back. And what of Mia? Will she even be able to compete?
Charlotte makes her entrance, not really caring about what Naomi just did to Mia. But that means she also crosses paths with Jade. The fans like the look of this stare down, but Jade and Charlotte both let the other slide. Charlotte gets her pyro, and it seems she’ll still get her match. Will Mia be little more than an appetizer now?
The bell rings, and Charlotte BOOTS Mia down! Cover, TWO! Mia stays in this and the fans rally up. Charlotte just struts around while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns, Charlotte has Mia down with a chinlock, but the fans rally up. Mia fights up, fires body shots, and she then blocks a shot to ROCK Charlotte! Mia ROCKS Charlotte again and again, then reels her in for a TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Mia hurries to cover, TWO! Mia drags Charlotte up, wrenches, but Charlotte says no to Da Feet! BIG back suplex! Mia stagger sup, Charlotte whips her, but Mia reverses! Charlotte goes up and out, BOOTS her away, then slingshots in and rolls Mia! Mia rolls through and BUZZSAWS! Mia runs corner to corner, but Charlotte avoids the cannonball!
Charlotte YAKUZA KICKS Mia down, then fires herself up! The fans “WOO~!” as Charlotte has Mia in the drop zone,. Charlotte steps on her, goes up the corner, but Mia gets underneath her! SIT-OUT POWERBOMB! Cover, TWO! Charlotte survives and Mia is shocked! Mia nods as the fans rally back up, and she brings Charlotte up. But Charlotte ROCKS Mia! Mia SOBATS, PELES, and then runs to PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! Charlotte stays in this, Mia grows frustrated, but the fans continue to rally. Mia uses that energy to stay focused, and she stalks Charlotte to waistlock. But Charlotte ELBOWS her away!
Charlotte CHOPS, and CHOPS, and CHOSP! Charlotte winds up, and she CHOPS again! Mia sputters, but then she dodges the boot! Charlotte is caught, and Mia hits a SAIDO! Charlotte flounders to a corner, the fans rally behind Mia, and Mia runs up, CANNONBALL! Mia hurries to wrench and EAT- NO, Charlotte shoves Mia away! Charlotte gets under, back suplexes, but Mia lands out! EAT DA FEET!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Charlotte’s long legs help her survive by a literal foot! Mia is beside herself while Charlotte bails out. Mia storms after Charlotte, runs up, but Charlotte dodges! Mia’s kick hits steel steps!
Mia hobbles away, goes to the apron, but Charlotte CHOP BLOCKS the bad leg out! Charlotte grabs Mia’s leg, drops a KNEE on the knee, but fans chant, “We Want Tiffy!” Charlotte just steps through, FIGURE FOUR, into FIGURE EIGHT!! Mia taps, Charlotte wins!
Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission
Charlotte got more of a fight out of Mia than expected, but she still won. Will The Queen be more than ready to reign again after WrestleMania?
Backstage interview with Tiffany Stratton.
Jackie Redmond is with the WWE Women’s Champion and says Charlotte certainly looks confident. Let’s be real, Charlotte came at Tiff pretty hard. It got a lot of people talking. Tiff says yes, people talk. And Charlotte sure loves to hear herself talk. Ten years into the business and Charlotte is still so insecure that she can’t let a “rookie” get a word out. But last week, Tiff did learn something: She learned that walking into WrestleMania, she isn’t the one with something to lose. Truth is, if Tiff loses, then she lost to the great Charlotte Flair, as just a 25-year-old rookie with one year into SmackDown.
But if Charlotte loses… Well, then she lost to an “undeserving, delusional, unoriginal, backflip doing, blonde-hair-having, little girl.” Did she get it all? And Tiff can’t wait to hear the look on Charlotte’s face when they hear the words, “And STILL!” Then maybe Charlotte will finally shut up for the sake of literally everyone! They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, and Tiff will make damn sure what stays is Charlotte’s massive ego. Tiff is walking into and out of Mania as the WWE Women’s Champion. Tootles! Tiff heads out, will it still be #TiffyTime after WrestleMania?
Randy Orton VS Drew McIntyre!
The Viper told Cody how proud he was, but also how he wants the next shot after John Cena. The Scottish Terminator took offense to that, and basically said he is taking that shot instead. Will this match be an unofficial #1 contender’s match between these two former world champions?
SmackDown returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans sing, “OH~, Drew McIntyre~!” and chant “R K O! R K O!” Drew and Orton circle, tie up, and they go around in a deadlock. Drew powers Orton to a corner, but Orton headlocks back. Drew powers up and out, then he runs Orton over! Orton hurries to ropes and Drew mockingly asks, “How’s the back feel, Randy?” Orton stands, he and Drew reset, and the fans duel some more. Drew calls for a knuckle lock, Orton accepts, but then Drew kicks low! Drew bumps Orton off buckles, then climbs up, but he panders for too long and Orton YANKS him down!
The fans fire up as Orton climbs now! Orton rains down fists, and the fans count to nine. Orton hops down, brings Drew around, and POSTS him for ten! Drew tumbles out of the ring, Orton goes out after him, and they’re by the desk! But Drew kicks Orton first and SMACKS him off the desk! Drew clears the desk, and he brings Orton up for the DESK- NO, Orton fights free! Orton turns things around, DESK BACK SUPLEX for Drew! The fans fire up while Orton leaves Drew behind, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew writhes on the floor, but Orton goes out to fetch him! Orton brings Drew around, UPPERCUTS him, then says one more time! DESK BACK SUPLEX! Drew writhes as that desk stays standing! Orton grins, refreshes the ring count, and then he storms up on Drew. Drew pokes Orton in the eye! Drew POSTS Orton now, then brings him around to RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP into barriers! Orton slumps down, and Drew also grits his teeth from that double-edged attack, but Drew fires up as he stands tall. Drew drags Orton up, puts him in the ring, then stalks Orton. Drew looms over Orton, and HIP DROPS him!
Orton sputters, Drew says one more time, and he winds up for the HIP DROP! Drew paces around Orton, says maybe one more time, and he pretends he can’t hear the fans. Drew winds up again, but Orton flips over! Hip drop meets kneecaps! And then Orton pokes Drew in the eyes! The ref reprimands but Orton rises up. Drew sputters and flounders, Orton ROCKS him with a right! Drew ROCKS Orton back! Drew storms up, Orton kicks low, but Drew fires another haymaker! The haymakers go back and forth, Orton gets the edge, but Drew GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTTS! Cover, TWO! Drew clamps onto Orton with an armlock!
SmackDown returns to single picture and the fans rally up. Orton fights up, pries at the chinbar, and then throws right hands! Drew CHOPS Orton in return! The fans “WOO~” and Drew winds up. Drew ROCKS Orton again, eggs him on, then CHOPS again! Drew shoves Orton to a corner, CHOPS again, then dares Orton to fight! Drew whips corner to corner, but Orton comes back to LARIAT! And LARIAT! Drew swings, Orton dodges, SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up as Orton stalks Drew to the apron. Drew HOTSHOTS Orton first! Drew then runs in, but Orton puts him through the ropes!
The fans fire up as Orton has Drew for the DRAPING DDT! The fans fire up for Orton, and Orton hears those voices! Drew rises, but then Orton spots KEVIN OWENS! The Prizefighter is on the ramp, Orton glares at him, but then he turns around into a CLAYMORE!! Cover, DREW WINS!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
Kevin’s mere presence costs Orton, and now Drew has a huge win propelling him down the Road to WrestleMania! As for Orton, Kevin drags him out of the ring, SMACKS him off the desk, and then climbs up to join him! The fans boo but Kevin and his hot pink sneakers have Orton in position, but Orton slips free and TRIPS Kevin up! Kevin hits the desk then the floor! Orton staggers around, the fans rally behind him, and Orton stalks Kevin to the corner of the barriers. Orton lines up the shot! Orton runs in, but Kevin jumps over barriers! Security is there to stop Orton from pursuing, so Kevin runs away into the night!
The fans boo, but The Viper was that close! Will Orton be able to strike Kevin down and completely take him out?
Fire, thunder, smoke…
The force of nature is drawing ever closer. And he’s ready to fly! REY FENIX arrives next Friday Night SmackDown!
Jimmy Uso VS The Miz!
#BigJim gave Gunther a piece of his mind and a mark on his cheek, but it seems not everyone got the message. Will the Hollywood A-lister soon star in the Uso Penitentiary? Or will he prove Jimmy is NOT ready for a world champion level opponent?
The bell rings and the two tie up. Jimmy powers Miz to a corner, Miz turns things around, and the ref counts. Miz takes a swing, Jimmy ducks it to CHOP! And CHOP! Miz shoves Jimmy back, then runs up, but Jimmy TACKLES Miz! Jimmy rains down fists, Miz shoves him away to go to ropes, but Jimmy storms back up. Miz ELBOWS Jimmy away, then runs back up, only for Jimmy to LARIAT him down! The fans fire up while Jimmy storms up on Miz. Jimmy CHOPS Miz, has him in a corner, then whips corner to corner. Miz reverses, Jimmy goes up and over, then UPPERCUTS! Miz staggers back to ropes, but Jimmy is right on him.
Jimmy whips, Miz reverses and kitchen sink knees! Then basement BOOTS! The fans fire up, Miz scowls, and Miz KNEES Jimmy in the back again and again. Miz stalks Jimmy to the ropes now, and he CHOKES Jimmy! The ref counts, Miz runs, and Miz STRADDLE ATTACKS! The fans boo, but Miz runs again. Jimmy ducks the boot, then dodges a lariat! Jimmy runs up to LARIAT Miz up and out! The fans fire up and Jimmy builds speed, but Miz runs away! Jimmy smirks as he goes out the side, and UPPERCUTS Miz over the barriers! Jimmy makes sure Gunther knows he’s coming to get him, but SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and both men are down. Miz and Jimmy crawl, and Jimmy pounds the mat. The fans rally, Jimmy rises and runs up to LARIAT! And LARIAT! And mule kick! Jimmy then UPPERCUTS Miz, dodges a lariat, then SAMOAN DROPS! The fans fire up, Jimmy goes to the corner, “UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs in, but Miz puts him on the apron! Jimmy UPPERCUTS again! Jimmy climbs, leaps, but Miz gets under! Miz then waistlocks, ripcords, and MOVIE MAKER! Fans boo that blatant parody, but Miz full nelsons! Jimmy drops, victory rolls, TWO! Miz has the cover, TWO! Miz hurries to BASEMENT DDT! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally up as Jimmy survives! Miz stalks Jimmy, the fans rally up more, and Miz fires a KICK! And then another KICK! The fans say “YES! YES! YES!” to the It Kicks, but then Miz winds up. Jimmy ducks the buzzsaw, Miz blocks the superkick, but the DRAGON WHIP connects! Miz rebounds to B-MOVIE KNEE!! Cover, TWO!! The parodies don’t get it done, but Miz still has his original work to fall back on. The fans rally for “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz shoves Jimmy down, then springboards, but into a SUPERKICK! Jimmy hurries up top, for the USO SPLASH!! Cover, Jimmy wins!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Miz may be a movie star, but Big Jim’s the one winning this main event! Jimmy then borrows Joe Tessitore’s headset to call out Gunther! He’s coming after dat ass on Monday! Gunther won’t be the ring general, he will be “Private Gunther,” and he will salute Big Jim! Uh, uh, YEET! Will Jimmy be the one making examples out of the World Heavyweight Champion? Or will everything come crashing down when Gunther gets his turn?
Drew McIntyre returns backstage.
And he says hey to Lewis Capaldi, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, and also a big fan of Drew’s. They’re ready to have a good night in the pub, but Jackie Redmond walks over to congratulate him on the win tonight. She was hoping to get some thoughts on that victory and what happened with Orton and Kevin. Drew says it’s alright, this is what happens. He doesn’t care about anybody else’s business, but no one gets away with screwing him over. And when no one meddles in his business, he wins! Drew called out Priest, where is he? Priest doesn’t have the balls! So time to get mad in the pubs, everyone’s invited!
Drew turns the corner, but PRIEST IS THERE! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the door, then throws him into road cases! Priest ROCKS Drew, SMACKS him off the trunk of a car, and then again! Or since it’s London, “the boot.” The driver complains, but Priest BODY SLAMS that guy through a table! Drew comes back to KNEE Priest low, SMACK him off the trunk, and then off the side! They go to the hood, or bonnet for UK. Drew drags Priest up, but Priest CLAWS Drew’s eyes! Priest then sends Drew SOUTH OF HEAVEN through the windshield! Priest tells security that he’s done for now. Any more jokes, Drew? Didn’t think so! RIP, jackass!
Priest leaves, the producers hurry to help Drew, and Drew’s got glass in his eye! Will that glass help Drew see why he shouldn’t piss off the Punisher?
CM Punk heads to gorilla.
He has a security detail with him, and he passes by Drew writhing in pain. Punk chuckles, then continues on. Will his contract signing with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins be just as brutal? We find out, after the break.
Nick Aldis is in the ring.
The SmackDown General Manager welcomes us back, and says it is his honor and privilege to be here in the O2 in London. Now, we all know why he and this table is here, and why additional security is here tonight. Tonight, we are here to sign a contract for a Triple Threat. Perhaps the biggest Triple Threat in the history of WrestleMania: Seth Rollins VS CM Punk VS Roman Reigns! The fans cheer all those names, and here comes the OTC! London puts the ones up, and Paul Heyman accompanies THE Tribal Chief out on stage. Roman raises his finger to the sky for the pyro, then security follows him to the ring.
SmackDown goes picture in picture as Roman’s entrance continues, and he raises his finger to the sky for the second round of pyro. Roman steps into the ring, SmackDown returns to single picture, and Heyman hands him a mic. The fans sing, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!” Roman nods, the fans cheer, and now they chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman tells London, “ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer again, and again chant, “O T C! O T C!” Roman smiles, but he sees the chairs are not to his liking. Heyman makes sure to put one at the head of the table. Heyman also dusts the chair off while Roman enjoys the singing of, “ROMAN! ROMAN REIGNS~!”
Roman takes a seat and says that was beautiful. The way they sing to their Tribal Chief, it’s just beautiful. The singing continues, and Heyman even joins in! Roman smiles, and he says that is what he’s talking about. That’s the OTC for you, baby! The biggest star on the planet! The OTC came here for two reasons. One: to be acknowledged; check! And two: to sign this contract. Roman does just that, and he says he’s checked both boxes. That means- “BURN IT DOWN!” Seth Rollins interrupts! The fans now sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Rollins struts out in his red wine paisley suit and conducts the O2 Choir all the way into the ring.
The fans cheer while Roman frowns, but Rollins takes the seat to Roman’s left. Rollins offers Heyman a chance to sing to this song, but Heyman frowns. Rollins chuckles, and he says the fans do have beautiful singing voices. He doesn’t know why Roman is in such a hurry to leave, though! This is their building! There’s a lot of history here! 12 years ago, they landed on the roof of this place in a helicopter! They came down those stairs over there, “ready to burn down the old guard!” They put the Undertaker down through the desk, and they were going to remake this company in their image!
Now don’t get him wrong, Rollins knows a lot has happened since then. They fought against each other, with each other, a little bit of love and a whole lot of hate. But Rollins dare says, as the fans continue to sing “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~,” that Rollins and Roman accomplished their mission. The fans start to chant for CM Punk, but Rollins tunes them out. Roman says, “We? We? You keep saying we. Our mission? We died a long time ago. It’s only been ME. You been here, but I done all the work! I’ve made this place what it is today! I took us to the level that we are here today! I made this place better than we found it!
“I’m the one that made us desirable to Netflix! I’m the one that took us into billion-dollar deals! Tell me, what have you done?” Rollins shouts, “I’ll tell you what I’ve done! YOU, YOU, YOU, it’s that mindset that keeps me having to screw you! You understand that? And your biggest mistake is not understanding the danger that’s right in front of us! The danger that’s right in front of you! You let the biggest snake in the world, CM Punk, into the garden! And you could’ve cut his head off at WarGames! But instead, you shook his hand. You could’ve let me finish him inside the cage at The Garden, but you didn’t. And now, I am left to do what I always do: Clean up your mess, again.”
Rollins drops his mic, picks up the pen, and signs his part. And now, here comes CM PUNK! The fans fire up and sing along with Cult of Personality, then join in on saying, “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME~!” Punk goes to the ring, but as he grabs a mic, he goes up a corner, just like he did last Friday. “I have come here to chew bubblegum and sign a contract. And I’m all outta bubblegum.” The fans cheer the Rowdy Roddy Piper reference, and Punk hops down to take his seat on Roman’s right. Punk looks over said contract, but Roman asks if Punk needs a highlighter or something. What’s he doing? Just go to page four, clause five.
Punk does as Roman says, but Roman says Punk needs to hurry, this is precious TV time. Punk reads the segment, Roman tells Heyman to just smarten Punk up. Heyman tells Punk he knows what Punk is looking for. It is in there. They’re closing the show at WrestleMania. The fans go wild hearing that! Heyman tells Punk that he gets to live his dream of dreams. CM Punk will be a WrestleMania main eventer! The fans cheer and while Roman smiles, Rollins is furious. Roman says, “One man’s dream is another man’s favor! CHECK!” Wait, this was the favor? Rollins says no! This is not something to laugh at, and Punk does not get to tear up!
Punk is NOT deserving! He does NOT deserve this! The fans boo but Rollins continues to throw a fit! Main eventing WrestleMania is SACRED, the most important thing in the world to Rollins! More than anything! Except the fact that Punk NEVER gets to main event! This is all Roman’s fault! This is all Heyman’s fault! Rollins THROWS his mic down, paces angrily, but Punk picks up the mic. The fans cheer Punk on again, and Punk stands to thank London, to thank Chicago, to thank Louisville, Kentucky, and to thank ALL the fans. As corny as it sounds, he thanks the WWE Universe who stood by him and chanted his name for TEN LONG YEARS!
Roman says hold on, hold on. Punk shouldn’t be thanking the fans! He should be thanking the Tribal Chief! It is because of Roman that Punk gets this honor! So please, take this moment, close the show with that acknowledgement! Do this the right way. The credits are already rolling as Punk kneels before Roman!? Punk smiles, and he thanks “My Tribal Chief, the holder of the ula fala, the Head of the Table, the… Big Dog? Thank you for allowing a kid from Chicago to be graced by your presence. Thank you, My Tribal Chief, for allowing me to stand in your ring. And thank you so much. Thank you, Roman Reigns, so very much.
“But because of you, I will see you in the main event of WrestleMania.” And again, Rollins is agonizing over this. Punk finishes putting his signature on the contract, and London tells him, “You Deserve It!” Punk thanks Roman again, and then says, “But that’s not the favor that I’m owed.” WHAT?! Roman looks at Heyman and Heyman can’t look him in the eye! If getting this Triple Threat made into the main event isn’t the gift of the Wise Man, then what is?!
My Thoughts:
A good SmackDown, but they pulled off quite the paradox. They made it feel like they were struggling to fill three hours, yet they also filled the show to the point where that contract signing segment was almost bleeding over the three hour mark. Ironically, part of the problem was just how excited the London crowd was for this. The superstars still wanted to enjoy the chants and songs, but that’s time SmackDown doesn’t have to spare. It made the opening promo from Cody, Orton and Drew take longer, and it kinda did the same to the contract signing at the end. Even so, we still got a very good promo, and good stuff to set up Orton VS McIntyre.
Orton VS McIntyre was a great match, but of course Kevin costs Orton. McIntyre gets his win, Kevin and Orton have a bit of a brawl, but of course Kevin ends up on the losing end and runs off. McIntyre’s trash talk also comes back to bite him as Priest gets the better of him in their brawl. Here’s hoping Drew didn’t actually get glass in his eye, but that being the thing in kayfabe can be some good stuff. I can imagine McIntyre with an eyepatch, and he takes it off at the opportune time to get the better of Priest in their match. Also what a fitting choice for Punk to be passing by Drew suffering because of real glass.
Very good title matches tonight, but of course the status quo was kept. Pretty Deadly gets to look great here in London, but the Profits only just got the belts, they’re not going to be transitional champions like that. And Knight VS Braun was really good stuff, but honestly, Jacob Fatu going after them both should’ve been a given. Jacob also had a great promo with Solo & Tama to start adding to that divide between Jacob and Solo. I would hope Solo doesn’t screw Jacob out of the US Championship, but it feels like he will as Solo won’t stand for Jacob defying his authority, even though Solo’s been trying to make Jacob the champion all along.
Very good stuff from Jimmy Uso tonight, from his promo with #MeloDon’tMiz and then a great match with Miz. Their match ended up the de facto main event match, so that’s also great for both guys. Great win for Jimmy, but that’s likely because Jimmy is losing big time to Gunther on Monday. And it might just be me, but it feels like only now is the Jey VS Gunther build really moving, largely in part because Jimmy got involved. Jimmy’s promo after his match is something along the lines of what Jey should be saying. But I suppose as brothers, Jimmy is the one who knows Jey best and knows what Jey needs to be motivated again. And seeing Jimmy get beat up by Gunther will definitely motivate Jey…
Good final vignettes for Rey Fenix and Aleister Black. I’m a little surprised they confirmed Rey Fenix is showing up next week, and that they confirmed who Rey Fenix even is. I believe commentary confirmed Rey Fenix is Penta’s real brother, even namedropped “Lucha Brothers,” but all that is still surprising considering Fenix is going to start on SmackDown. Aleister’s vignette (at least I am fairly confident it’s his) was giving us glimpses of his silhouette, but I think there was usage of AI in the snake imagery. It was fine they did it for El Grande Americano because that is all trolling, but they really should try and do things the old fashioned way of photoshop and stock imagery.
Very good stuff in the Women’s Division tonight, though the WWE Women’s Championship portion was the weaker. Naomi’s got a great Heel persona going, her promo was great, and her going after B-Fab & Michin over them supporting Jade was a great detail. Jade runs Naomi off, helps B-Fab, but there was no helping Michin in being fed to Charlotte. Tiffany had a decent promo, and it does fit how Charlotte kept her from speaking so she finally gets things out here. It didn’t really add that much, though, but they already gave us a great brawl so not sure what more they can give.
KC Squared VS The Secret Her-vice was a very good match, but of course Chelsea made sure her team won. A Six Woman Tag of Zelina & KC Squared VS The Green Administration is certainly coming, to help give us Zelina VS Chelsea for the Women’s US Championship.
My Score: 8.7/10
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 3.27.2025
Bad news out of the TNA management side, but this is a taped episode from El Paso! So we won’t see any of the fallout just yet!
Now we all heard the news about the TNA change in hierarchy, and I…have no positive outlook on that. Delirious sucked at booking and creative in the dying days of ROH before it got bought as a B show. Dreamer having even more control is concerning because his ideas the last two years haven’t been much better.
Gail leaving makes more sense to me. Be it firing or a “you can’t quit, you’re fired” kind of situation, the Knockouts division is the worst it’s been in a long time and Gail was close with Scott D’Amore. So I don’t think Gail parting ways is as big of a problem since TNA has slowly been bleeding out with the Scott faithful.
Granted, I think the next few shows were already taped before the firing so things shouldn’t be completely unwatchable for at least a week or two. So let’s see where we’re going.
.@WeAreRosemary sends @XiaBrookside a CHILLING message!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/srciTTbel0
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Ratings:
- Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge: Ash wins via Rarefied Air – ** 1/4
- Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr: Chavo wins via Gory Bomb into Frog Splash – *** 1/4
- Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich: Masha wins via Russian Death Device – ***
- Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin: Eric wins via Piledriver – ** 1/2
- Seto & Mokuba – I mean – Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater: Nic wins via Danger Zone – *** 1/4
Results:
Gigi Dolin & Tatum Paxley vs Elegance Clique w/Personal Concierge
Ash and Gigi start off, Gigi with a little Rascalz after her first takedown. So both her and Wentz are making it obvious something’s going on between them, and I’m not mad at it. Good for my man Wentz.
Tatum and Gigi get some quick tandem offense in, Ash does manage to scurry off to a tag and Heather gets bent into a Pretzel. Some kind of Inverted Tarantula from Tatum, Gigi tags in, Bronco Buster on Heather followed by Kawada Kicks. Heather sells against the ropes, Gigi goes for a Hesitation Dropkick, but Concierge pulls her away so Gigi crashes and burns. Ref is distracted, Ash gets in some cheap shots and then the Elegant duo starts working over Gigi. A few quick tags, but once Heather comes in, Gigi fights out of the corner, gets the hot tag to Tatum. Tatum stacks up both Elegance members, Corner Stacked Crossbody, Butterfly Suplex and an Elbow Drop with some some flare. Tatum goes to the top rope, Heather pulls Gigi off the apron, Concierge shoves Tatum off the turnbuckle and Ash hits Rarefied Air for the win.
Post match the Elegance Clique wants to make their wish with the cake, they light the candles and Tatum and Gigi recover enough to do what we all expected last week, the cake in the face spot. Some…suggestive licking from both of our Hot Topic Hotties, so…no complaints here.
.@Ashamae_Sebera, @Heathereckless and @IamGeorgeIceman are having a meltdown!
WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/LaVxF6l2yc pic.twitter.com/FnKwPqm2ff
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) March 28, 2025
Fir$t Cla$$ & Frankie Kazarian vs Laredo Kid, Octagon Jr & Chavo Guerrero Jr
Chavo and Kaz start since he’s King Petty, a quick rope run turns into a Headscissor from Chavo. Kaz recovers, they lock up, Kaz hits the Knee Lift during the lock up to tag out to KC. KC pulls off some athletic dodges, gloats a bit so Chavo waits, measures and nails a gorgeous Dropkick. Laredo comes in on fire, quick high spots that send KC bouncing around like HBK against Hulk. KC powders after sells the Satellite Takedown, AJ checks on him and we go to commercial.
Back from commercial, Octagon is lighting up KC’s chest with overhand chops, he perches, Sunset Headscissor Flip from corner to corner, KC tries to Back Drop him but Octagon does a headstand, kicks KC away and lays him out with a high spot. AJ gets on the apron to stop Octagon from running the ropes, the referee has a stroke or something because he stops paying attention and AJ pulls Octagon out of the ring and chucks him. KC with the Tope con Hilo and tag (tag ropes haven’t mattered since the 80s we all know this). So AJ is getting taunted by the crowd in Spanish, but he’s manhandling Octagon since it looks like a Child fighting their parent. AJ knocks off Chavo and Laredo, Laredo pops up and tries to get involved but he’s caught on the shoulders, Octagon goes for the Crossbody but gets caught and AJ pulls off “World’s Strongest Wasteland” but Chavo breaks up the pinfall. AJ throws Octagon into the corner, Tennessee Whiskey, and tag out to KC. KC hits a few moves, but starts to lose the momentum until he connects with a Super Kick. Simultaneous rope run into the Dueling Crossbodies, so we get the timely tag outs from both sides. Kaz and Laredo come in, Laredo lands like two moves before Kaz hits a Sole Butt, Lariat and eats his lunch. KC and Kaz try to double team Laredo but he fights out and the crowd is chanting for Chavo.
Chavo tags in, and he’s rocking KC, Saito Suplex, Low Bridge to AJ, Reverse the Whip so Chavo goes to the corner and perches, KC feeds, Chavo Backflips to safety, rolls through and lays out KC. Chavo is feeling himself, 3 Amigos start on KC but only 2, Kaz comes in and Chavo switches to Kaz for the Amigos, only 2 again before AJ breaks it up. AJ goes for the disrespect, but Chavo counters and hits the 3 Amigos on the biggest Culero. Aztec Warriors dive to stop AJ and Kaz, KC tries a Dirty Victory Roll but Chavo kicks out. GORY BOMB into FROG SPLASH!
Chavo looked fantastic and he’s the one in the best shape in the ring. I wouldn’t be mad at more Chavito.
Jacy Jayne vs Masha Slamovich
I expect very little from this match.
Collar and Elbow, gator rolling for the first 30 seconds or so, then Jacy goes to some Hair Pull takedowns and does a little taunt before Masha pops back up and hits a Lariat into a Dive. Jacy sells it like she’s really hurt, even the ref tries to hold Masha back a little before Masha gets annoyed and just grabs her, Masha throws her in, looks for a Dive and Jacy sees it and powders. Masha tries to go back to the well for the Dive again but Jacy hits the Uppercut and then an Apron Run PK to drop Masha. Forearms rain down into a Foot Choke as Jacy continues to arrogantly play to the crowd. Another Foot Choke into a Cannonball, and near fall.
Masha gets space with a Sole Butt, tries to snap off Requiem but Jacy fights off, fights through a Sunset Flip another effective PK keeps Masha on her ass. Jacy looks for a kinda half-assed Camel Clutch as Masha is fighting up, but Jacy runs her into the corner, gets distracted mouthing off to the crowd, so Masha recovers, 5 Hole Up Kick sends Jacy into the corner, Yakuza Kick into Capo Kick for two. Requiem attempt again, but Jacy pushes off, a little back and forth, Masha tries a Backslide but Jacy gets away and hits a V-Trigger but only a 2 count. Jacy looks for the Discus Punch but Masha ducks it, they strike back and forth, but some dodges from both leave the exchange more even. Jacy with the Front Kick to the face sends Masha to the outside. Jacy wants another PK, but Masha blocks, Electric Chair Apron Snake Eyes. Masha throws her in, a PK into a near all. Requiem attempt 3, and thwarted from Jacy with a Superkick into a Neckbreaker. Senton misses from Jacy, Buzzsaw Kick, into Spinning Back Kick and Russian Death Device for the win.
Better than I expected, and Tessa attacks as soon as the bell rings. Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Li make the save after Tessa grabs the belt.
Eric Young w/two losers vs Ace Austin
Ace and Eric tie up, World of Sport start but as soon as Ace starts to get away EY punches him in the face. Eric looks at the camera and says “This is what trust looks like”, turns his back on Ace, when Ace looks to attack, the loser duo cut him off. EY takes advantage of the weird situation, but Ace with some Up and Over quick spots, into an Inside Cradle and La Magistral. EY kicks out of the quick flash attempts, but eats a Dropkick, and Ace goes all Speed Kils on him with fast strikes and then a face buster for another near fall. Strike spot very early in the match, Ace gets the best of it, goes for a Tear Drop Suplex but EY sits on it to block, Headlocks to keep him close and then a snap Lariat into beatdown bully tactics. EY takes the referee’s attention and one of the nerds punch Ace in the face.
Eric tries to lean on Ace, but Ace fires, a few strikes, Click Click Boom, the Miz Seated Lariats in the corner, Mochizuki Triangle Kick connects! Only a 2 count, but Ace seems to be in control. Ace puts EY on the ropes, a few strikes to keep him rocked, wants a Superplex, but EY blocks, bites the face and Macho Elbow gets a very close two count. EY tries the Piledriver but Ace turns it into a Jacknife Cradle,Spinning Heel Kick, calls for The Fold, but the losers hop on the apron to distract, Ace attacks them. Ace tries to time out the Triangle Kick again, but Eric dodges, throws Ace head first through the buckles. As Ace stumbles out of the corner, Piledriver, and it’s over.
Oh look it’s the “we’ll hear from Joe Hendry” segment. Again, I’ve loved this gimmick since Day 1, even didn’t hate his What Culture Pro stuff, but there is such a thing as milking a cow too much.
Elijah interrupts the whole “Who’s next” speech. When Elijah comes out he says he’s not the challenger and he believes in Joe. The crowd wants Elijah to turn on Hendry. Elijah pauses for a moment, and starts proving his friendship with stating his favorite color and a little “You Got a Friend in Me”. The crowd is into singing along and waving their cameras like Lighters to a 30 year old song. THANKFULLY Kaz breaks up the hug fest. Now he gets the “Culero” chant.
Kaz pulls out a Bass…what the hell is this Jam Session. Kaz has to warm up so he plays “La Cucaracha” on the bass. Kaz…is a national treasure. Hendry kicks Kaz out of the ring after his Heelish and playfully racially charged song choices. Kaz tries to sow dissension, but Joe and Elijah pinball Kaz between them. Kaz slips a power move and tries to shove Elijah into Joe but Elijah puts the brakes on, a small tense moment. But then Joe and Elijah play “Nah Nah Nah Nah, Hey Hey, Goodbye”…and that goes right into a commercial. Oddly…perfect.
Nic Nemeth w/Ryan Nemeth vs Leon Slater
Nic shoots the half immediately for a flash pinfall but Leon kicks out at one. Nic continues to keep things grounded with his amateur wrestling skills, and then does a little Dolph Ziggler show off. So Nic isn’t really taking this seriously, and Leon starts getting the best of things with an Arm Wringer, into drag, Shoulder Tackle and rope run as Nic tries to Leap Frog and Leon puts on the brakes and just shoves Nic on his ass. Nic gets annoyed, a few strikes, grinds his face along the ropes, but Leon keeps stringing some offense together, Back Handspring Elbow into his Corner con Hilo.
Ahh the classic formula of the commercial gives the heel the advantage, Twisting Suplex from Leon stops Nic’s offense momentum, right hand, Leon lifts Nic up for something, Nic slips it, kicks him in the gut, looks for the FameAsser, but Leon catches him into a Blue Thunder Bomb variation. Slater wants the Swanton 450, but Nic powders. Leon tries to adjust into a Dive, but Nic cuts him off, counter for counter and a FameAsser out of the counters for a two count. Nic starts the big brother tactics, bootwashes and arrogance, Slater fires, punches into a Yakuza Kick. Leon wants another Lethal Injection variant, but Nic catches him into a Rear Naked Choke. Slater tries to turn it into a pin so Nic breaks it. Leon wants a Leg Lariat but misses and gets unceremoniously dropped by Nic. Nic puts Leon up on the buckles, Superplex possibly but Slater counters, tries to collect himself for a move, but Nic falls into the ropes to crotch Leon, and finally hits the Superplex.
Twist of Slate from Leon, Swanton 450 but knees get up. Locomotion Cradles from both but they kick out, Ryan picks the ankle to trip up Leon just a touch and then Danger Zone ends the match.
Ryan starts the post match beatdown, but the Hardy’s music hits and they come down to the ring for the save. Matt challenges the Nemeths for Rebellion because they’re not medically cleared yet.
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Decent story motion, no match was offensive, and there was actually some solid match action for television standards. I don’t have a ton to complain about aside from the Knockouts Division is in a weird spot, and giving Hendry a lot of just talking and hollow payoff segments feels stupid. If we need to hear from him every week, give him a talk segment like Highlight Reel or something. Yes I know First Class just got The Penthouse, but if Hendry is going to talk more than wrestle, give him a talk segment for us to sink our teeth into.
There was the announcement that Xia, Lei Ying and Masha will face Tessa, Jacy and a mystery partner. So you gotta wonder if there’s going to be another NXT mercenary, a surprise return or if it’ll just be Rosemary since she’s got her issues with Xia. Also I just realized that Unbreakable is going to be on a Thursday, seemingly after iMPACT? I’m gonna have to see how they do it, because if there’s an Impact episode and 2-3 hour PLE…I do not want to be awake until 1am. People need to work, and I will be Unwakeable if things go that long.
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
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
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