Coverage
Mitchell’s ROH Results & Report! (9/7/23)
Enter the Proving Ground!
Big Shotty tugs at the Swiss Superman’s cape!
The champions of ROH are put to the test! Claudio Castagnoli takes on Lee Johnson in a Proving Grounds match while Athena defends the ROH Women’s World Championship against Allysin Kay!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- ROH Women’s World Championship: Athena w/ Billie Starkz VS Allysin Kay; Athena wins and retains the title.
- Tony Nese w/ Mark Sterling VS Silas Young; Nese wins.
- Spanish Announce Project w/ Luther VS Adam Priest & Schaff; SAP wins.
- Skye Blue & Willow Nightingale VS The Renegade Sisters; Skye & Willow win.
- ROH World Six Man Tag Team Championship Proving Ground: The Mogul Embassy VS Griff Garrison, Metalik & Gravity; The Mogul Embassy wins and deny Griff, Metalik & Gravity a title match.
- Kiera Hogan VS Leila Grey; Kiera wins.
- Six Man Tag: Willie Mack & The Infantry VS Davey Bang, August Matthews & JAH-C; Mack & The Infantry win.
- Leyla Hirsch VS Lady Frost; Leyla wins.
- Eddie Kingston & Katsuyori Shibata VS Blake Christian & Gringo Loco; Eddie & Shibata win.
- ROH World Championship Proving Ground Match: Claudio Castagnoli w/ Wheeler Yuta VS Lee Johnson; Claudio wins and denies Johnson a title match.
- The Iron Savages w/ Jacked Jameson VS Wren Jones & Kaleb Konley; The Iron Savages win.
- 8 Man Tag: Action Andretti, Darius Martin & Best Friends VS The Workhorsemen & The Outrunners; Action, Darius & Best Friends win.
PLAY BY PLAY
ROH shares an interview from after AEW All Out.
Lexi Nair was with Athena and Billie Starkz, and asks what happened out there. Athena asks back, “What do you think happened? Billie screwed up! We had a match on Zero Hour, and what were you supposed to do, minion?” Billie thinks, and then says, “Cheer!” Athena says no, Billie was supposed to help Athena’s team win at all costs! So when Willow Nightingale POUNCED Athena into the railing, Billie should’ve helped “Diabla!” But Billie was helping Athena. No, no, no, Athena is not a child, she is the Forever Champion! She doesn’t need help! So…! Athena says Billie is an idiot! She is, Lexi, she is an idiot!
Allysin Kay storms in and asks if Billie is really gonna stand there and take that. Athena asks, “Who is you, porcelain?” Allysin tells Athena not to play like that, she knows who this is. So why don’t you pick on someone… Well, not her own size, as Allysin is taller. But someone of her caliber. If Athena wants a fight, fight Allysin! Billie says yeah! The ROH Women’s World Champ can take her! Athena says no, that is not how this works. Allysin is a porcelain hussy, who faces the other porcelain hussies to earn her way to a title match. So whatever pedestal Allysin came off of, it is not the one on Athena’s show.
Well, Allysin just wanted a plain old fight but they’re the ones making it about the title. Let’s just make it for the title! Nah, Athena’s head, neck and back- Billie asks if Athena is scared. Allysin says the “minion” has a point. Athena tells everyone to stop. But fine. Athena will give Allysin her match for the title on Athena’s show. Billie is excited, but Athena tells Allysin that when she beats the brakes off her, Athena does not wanna see Allysin on her show ever again. Let’s roll out, fam! Athena and Billie head out, Lexi tells Allysin way to go. Allysin says that was easier than she thought. But then Athena snatches “bestie” Lexi away. Will Allysin snatch the title away from Athena?
ROH Women’s World Championship: Athena w/ Billie Starkz VS Allysin Kay!
Why wait for this high stakes battle? Tonight opens with the Fallen Goddess taking on the ROH icon who is looking to bring her career full circle. Will Athena keep her Forever Reign going to 37-0? Or will she see AK don’t play?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see how long forever really is!
The Code of Honor is upheld though barely, and the bell rings. The fans rally up, Athena and Allysin circle, and Athena hears all her fans cheer. She hops up onto a corner to say hi to them, then she resets with Allysin. They approach but Athena ROCKS Allysin! Athena cheers herself on but Allysin storms up to pull Athena’s hair! Athena slips through to arm-drag and kip up, and cheer herself on again. Athena runs up but Allysin sidesteps then scoops! Allysin hits a FALL AWAY SLAM! Then she whips Athena to a corner, scoops her and hits a SIDEWALK SLAM! Athena staggers up, into a BOOT! Cover, ONE!!
Athena bails out and Billie asks if she’s okay. Allysin waits on Athena, the ring count climbs, but then Allysin goes out. Allysin says there’s no timeouts here. Allysin storms up but Athena uses Billie as a shield. Billie says hold on, calm down, she’s the nice one! Allysin tells Billie to get out of the way but it’s all Athena as she sneaks around to RAM Allysin into railing! Athena scowls and Billie is a bit horrified. Athena tells Billie to do her job and then slides into the ring. Athena distracts the ref, and Billie is hesitant to attack Allysin. Billie looks around, Athena can see she hasn’t done anything and is upset.
Allysin gets in the ring, Athena throws her down! And CLUBS her, too! Athena stomps a mudhole in the corner, the ref counts, but Athena tells him to leave her alone! Athena storms back to Allysin but Allysin kicks her! Athena drags Allysin up but Allysin puts her in the corner now, to CHOP! And CHOP! And then bump her off buckles! Allysin fires off forearms, but Athena turns things around to ROCK Allysin! Fans rally, Athena whips corner to corner and then runs in, but Allysin ELBOWS! Athena UPPERCUTS! Athena snapmares and KICKS Allysin in the back! “This is MY show!” Fans fire up with Athena as she looms over Allysin.
Athena drags Allysin up, brings her through ropes, and then CLUBS away on her! Athena counts, fans join in, and Athena goes all the way to nine, then winds up to KNEE Allysin down! Athena and Billie cheer, and Athena makes sure Billie keeps track of this stuff. Yeah, that was ten total. Athena drags Allysin up, fireman’s carries, but Allysin hits a crucifix takedown! TWO, roll-up! TWO, and Allysin runs, but into a fireman’s carry! WASTELAND SLAM! Cover, TWO! Allysin toughs it out and Athena grows frustrated. Athena drags Allysin around to rain down fists! The ref reprimands the ground ‘n’ pound but fans fire up!
Athena tells the ref to back off, then she drags Allysin into a STRETCH PLUM! Allysin endures, fights up, and fans rally as Athena shifts to a standard chinlock. Allysin fights up but Athena throws her down by her hair! The ref reprimands but fans rally behind Athena. Athena mocks “pinkies up,” but Allysin ROCKS her! Athena gets mad, runs in, but into a FLAPJACK off buckles! Allysin whips Athena to ropes, and LARIATS her down! Athena staggers back up and Allysin ELBOWS her down! And then wrench and wrench and NECKBREAKER! Fans fire up and Allysin whips Athena again. POP-UP, SKY HIGH!! Cover, TWO!!
Athena is still in this, this is why she’s 36-0! Fans rally and Allysin gets her own eyelashes out of her eye. She storms up on Athena but Athena YANKS her into buckles! And roll up, with tights! TWO!! Allysin kicks low, reels Athena in, AK47!! Then ANKLE LOCK!! Athena endures, reaches out, crawls her way over as Billie calls to her, but Athena wants her to push the ropes closer? Billie doesn’t wanna bend the rules, but now Allysin bends that leg!! Athena powers through to kick with her free leg! Athena is free, but Allysin gets both legs. Allysin YANKS Athena from ropes but Athena lands on her feet! And ROLLING ELBOWS!
Both women are down and fans fire up! Athena goes to a corner and she climbs up. Allysin stands, and ROCKS Athena first! Allysin climbs up, CLUBS away on Athena’s back, then lifts, but Athena fights the superplex! Athena throws body shots, then SUPER GOURD BUSTERS Allysin! Allysin staggers up, into the O FACE!! Cover, Athena wins!
Winner: Athena, by pinfall (still ROH Women’s World Champion)
Billie celebrates Athena pulling out the win all on her own! Athena hobbles but she holds the title up, now 37-0! Athena then calls Billie in, and Billie thinks she wants a high-five. No, Athena wants Billie to smash Allysin off the title belt! Fans are torn, but Billie says no, she doesn’t want to do that. So Athena SMASHES Allysin! Athena says BILLIE messed up! But Athena won! How did Billie do something wrong? Will Billie find a way to break away from the Fallen Goddess?
Tony Nese w/ Mark Sterling VS Silas Young!
If anyone can understand The Premier Athlete’s desire for a more physically fit audience, it’s surely the Last Real Man in Professional Wrestling, right? Sterling of course asks the fans to quiet down, and stop thinking about the mush on a plate with cheese and grease that Chicago calls “deep dish pizza,” because Nese here has something to say. Nese tells Chicago that it was almost three months ago that Nese was in this very ring, in this very building, and he gave them all the greatest advice they were ever given: get in shape! And when he found out they were coming back, he was so excited to see what they’d all done with that advice.
It’s all about progress, and so Nese spoke with ROH management, and finally tonight, we see what Chicago’s got! We’re all gonna do GROUP TRAINING! Stand up! Stretch! Reach for the sky! Get it? Oh, okay, starting to smell. Arms down. Now, let’s see how athletic they are! Jog in place! C’mon! What even is this? Stop, stop, this is just sad. the problem is that none of them can keep up with Nese’s training. To be honest, there is not a single MAN in this crowd! In fact, aside from Nese- WAIT! The Last Real Man makes his way out! Maybe he prioritizes how you conduct yourself over how you look! Will he whoop Nese’s ego into shape here tonight?
The Code of Honor is upheld, but Nese is talking trash the entire time. Nese then takes a swing, but Silas dodges! The bell rings, Silas fires haymakers and CHOPS! Nese gets away to a corner, then he YANKS Silas into the corner to fire body shots! Nese bumps Silas off buckles then fires up! “I’M the real man!” Fans boo but Silas CHOPS Nese back! Silas ROCKS Nese, CHOPS him again, then brings him around to whip to ropes. Nese reverses but Silas holds ropes to then toss Nese out, and triangle jump LARIAT! Fans fire up as Nese falls to the floor! Silas goes out after Nese and says it’s time to see who’s a real man now!
Nese tumbles over steps as he tries to get away. Sterling distracts Silas but backs down as Silas shows punch, and Nese POSTS Silas! Nese hammerlocks Silas’s arm and RAMS him into the apron! Then Nese puts Silas in the ring, stomps him, and talks trash to Chicago as he stomps Silas against ropes. The ref reprimands, Nese lets off, but Sterling pulls the bad arm! Silas breaks free but Sterling still gets away. Nese soaks up the heat, he brings Silas up but Silas throws hands and CHOPS! Nese knees low! And CLUBS Silas, then CLUBS away on that arm! HOTSHOT to the arm! Nese then hurries up the corner to MISSILE DROPKICK!
Silas writhes, Nese covers, TWO! Nese keeps on Silas’s arm, and drops a leg right on the shoulder! And again! Fans boo but Nese clamps onto the arm and steps over for a mounted armlock. Silas endures, fans rally up, and Silas fights to his feet. Nese wrenches but double wristlocks! Silas fights that with a knee! And another knee! And another! Nese lets go, Silas hits a back suplex but Nese lands on his feet! Nese waistlocks but Silas switches, and Silas shoves Nese to a corner. Silas runs in, Nese gets around and rolls Silas up! Silas rolls through but Nese SOBAT- NO! Silas blocks the kick and LARIATS Nese down!
Fans fire up for Silas but Sterling shouts to Nese to get up. Silas shakes out the bad arm as Nese goes to the ropes. Silas runs in but Nese tosses Silas to the apron! Nese gets that bad arm but now Silas HOTSHOTS! Silas gets back up, and he slingshots for the DOUBLE STOMP! And then DOUBLE STOMPS again, and again! Fans fire up as Silas runs to SENTON! Cover, TWO! Into a ghost pin! TWO, and Silas watches Nese! Fireman’s carry, but Nese slips free to yank the arm! Fireman’s carry, but Silas slips free to O’Conner Roll! TWO, and Silas is sent into the POST! Nese runs side to side, PREMIER KNEE!! Cover, Nese wins!
Winner: Tony Nese, by pinfall
Sterling celebrates with his client for finding a way to beat the Last Real Man! Sterling gives Silas his card, and Nese shows Silas respect with the Code of Honor. But will Nese learn to show some respect to fans?
Backstage interview with Dalton Castle.
Lexi is with The Peacock but points out he looks flustered. Castle says yes, he is exhausted! He has this goal, but there’s all these roadblocks, and it’s just so, so… Well, flustered is a great word, Lexi, that’s what’s going on. This smorgasbord of problems is preventing him from doing what he wants to do, and that is to do this for the fans! Does Lexi know what a smorgasbord is? She thinks. Well, he doesn’t mean charcuterie, or a hodge-podge. There’s a hummus ball of Samoa Joe, a gurken pickle of Stokely Hathaway, and they’re all colluding to impede what Castle is doing. And his Boys are sweet but they’re a handful to take care of!
And it’s so hard when people keep putting their hands all over The Boys! Castle takes a chug of water, and Lexi says he at least has a great looking new T-shirt for sale. Castle says he can’t even be happy about that, though, because all these distractions! He needs to EAT this smorgasbord of problems and put them in his belly! So what’s he gonna start with? He doesn’t know! He just doesn’t know! Well, flustered, bamboozled and distracted, will Castle be able to make it to the gold he wants?
Spanish Announce Project w/ Luther VS Adam Priest & Schaff!
Almost back to full power here, Angelico & Serpentico are getting back in action on behalf of SAP, looking to build their win streak to a whopping 3-0! Will the South African Stud and SNAKEMAN keep things rolling? Or will something get lost in translation?
The teams sort out and Angelico starts with Priest. They shake hands for the Code of Honor and the bell rings. Fans chant for “S A P!” Angelico and Priest tie up, Angelico wrenches an arm, but Priest rolls to wrench back. Priest wrenches again, wristlocks, but Angelico spins, slips through and has a standing armlock to a wrench and wristlock. Priest goes for a leg but Angelico twists the wrist. Priest goes after Angelico’s arm, wrenches and wristlocks, but Angelico slips around, spins Priest around, and then wrenches from another angle to arm-drag! Priest comes back but Angelico catches him to wrench and cording hold! Angelico gets both arms even!
Serpentico takes in, he and Angelico double wrench to double whip, then trip and ELBOW Priest down! Fans fire up as Serpentico wrenches but Priest knees low! Tag to Schaff and he CHOPS Serpentico down! Serpentico goes to a corner, Schaff ROCKS him, then goes corner to corner. SPLASH, and then Schaff stomps a mudhole in! The ref counts, Schaff lets off, but he goes corner to corner again to CANNONBALL! Schaff drags Serpentico up to suplex, hold, and TOSS! Fans fire up, Schaff SENTONS! Cover, TWO! Fans rally up as Serpentico goes to the corner, and Schaff runs in, only for Serpentico to move!
Schaff bounces off buckles, he staggers after Serpentico and back suplexes, but Serpentico lands on his feet! Serpentico BOOTS Schaff away, and then BOOTS him again! Schaff comes back but the senton misses! Hot tag to Angelico! Fans fire up as Angelico rallies on Schaff with LARIATS! UPPERCUT for Priest, but Schaff full nelsons. Angelico arm-drags free then BOOTS Schaff down! Fans fire up and Angelico aims. Schaff jumps the sweep but the EDDY GORDO KICK lands! Angelico then gets Schaff’s legs and ties them up, for the NAVARRO DEATHLOCK! Serpentico catches Priest to a GROUND COBRA TWIST! Schaff taps, SAP wins!
Winners: Spanish Announce Project, by submission
And the streak continues! SAP shows respect to Schaff & Priest, will they be vibing their way up to the ROH World Tag Team Championships?
Backstage interview with Kiera Hogan.
Lexi is with the fiery young star, and brings up her match with Leila Grey tonight. They used to be best baddies together, so is there any tension here? Kiera says to be honest, she and Leila didn’t have a problem. But if you want it, you can get it, though. Make sure you ready cuz she gives it, boo. But it doesn’t matter if it’s Leila Grey, Lady Frost, or any single woman in this locker room, and they’ll see why Kiera’s the hottest. If you can’t handle the heat, get up out the kitchen. And that’s all, PERIODT.
Skye Blue & Willow Nightingale VS The Renegade Sisters!
Chicago’s Own is back in action, and once again alongside the Babe with the Power. They’ve been a winning combination as of late, but can they keep it going and beat these sisters? Or will Robyn & Charlette show Illinois what Ohio’s all about?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the teams sort out, and fans rally up as Skye starts against Charlette. They circle, Charlette & Robyn are annoyed by the chants for Skye, and the two tie up. Charlette headlocks, grinds the hold, but Skye powers out, only for Charlette to run her over! Charlette mocks the fans but Skye kips up! Fans fire up and Skye trips Charlette. Things speed up, Skye cartwheels over to then SHOTGUN! Cover, TWO! Skye keeps on Charlette, tags in Willow, and Willow runs in to clothesline Charlette! Feed to a SWINGING NECKBREAKER, and Willow adds a SENTON! Cover, TWO!
Willow drags Charlette up to headlock, she tags Skye back in, and Skye boots Charlette! Skye runs, hops on, but Charlette shrugs Skye off to kick low! Charlette whips, Skye reverses but Robyn tags in. Charlette gets around Skye to waistlock but Skye switches. Charlette uses that to bring Skye into a GAMANGIRI from Robyn! Charlette LARIATS, and Robyn rains down shots! “This your girl!? This is Skye Blue?!” Fans boo but Robyn bumps Skye off buckles. Tag to Charlette and Robyn sends her in to back body block! Robyn runs in to add DOUBLE KNEES! Feed to Charlette for a FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO!
Charlette was great but not quite perfect, so she clamps onto Skye with a chinlock. Fans rally as Skye endures, and Skye fights up. Skye throws body shots but Charlette CLUBS her down! Charlette steps over to mockingly hold Skye’s arm out, then she brings Skye around to bump off buckles. Tag to Robyn, the sisters go side to side, and they show double boot but Skye puts up the guard! The Renegades wait it out, and then they stomp Skye down! Fans boo but Robyn covers, only to let up? Robyn says no no, Skye isn’t getting off that easy. Fireman’s carry, but Skye fights free! Skye ELBOWS Charlette, but Robyn catches her!
Robyn tosses Skye away, Skye dodges her to hot tag Willow! Fans fire up as Willow rallies on the Renegades! Willow CLOBBERS Charlette again and again, CHOPS and ROCKS, but Robyn storms up. Willow whips her away, runs and POOOOUNCE! PERIOD!! Charlette runs up, but into a SPINEBUSTER! High stack, TWO! The Renegades survive but Willow hauls Charlette up. Fireman’s carry, but Charlette fights free to waistlock. Willow switches, Charlette fights with elbows, JAWBREAKER and a tag to Robyn! Robyn runs, Renegades DOUBLE ROLLING ELBOW! Cover, TWO!! And Skye SUPERKICKS Charlette!
Skye TOSSES Charlette out, Robyn drags Willow up, but Willow powers out to RAM Robyn into the corner! Tag to Skye, and Willow hits a DEATH VALLEY DRIVER on Robyn! Skye runs up and hops on, CODE BLUE!! Cover, Skye & Willow win!
Winners: Skye Blue & Willow Nightingale, by pinfall
#NightSkye keeps on winning, they’re on a roll! But will they be heading for gold in the near future?
ROH World Six Man Tag Team Championship Proving Ground: The Mogul Embassy VS Griff Garrison, Metalik & Gravity!
Speaking of titles, Brian Cage, Bishop Kaun & Toa Liona keep holding onto these titles, but the competition is getting closer and closer. Will the Ivy League MVP, the King of the Ropes, and the Astronaut of Lucha earn themselves a shot? Or will The Machine & The Gates of Agony slam the doors shut up them?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the trios sort out, and Griff starts against Kaun. The two circle, Griff avoids an early takedown, but then they tie up. Kaun headlocks, Griff powers out but Kaun runs him over! Things speed up, Griff hurdles but Kaun shoves him. Kaun hurdles, drops, and CLOBBERS Griff! Kaun drags Griff up, brings him over, and tags Liona. But Griff fights back with forearms and elbows! But Kaun hits a BACKSTABBER, and feeds Griff to a BELLY2BELLY! Liona snarls as he stalks Griff to ropes, and then CHOKES him! The ref counts, Liona lets off at 4, and Nana creeps over.
Liona tags to Cage, they double whip Griff to ropes, and then DOUBLE FLAPJACK! Cage flexes while fans are torn. Gravity y Metalik call to Griff but Cage ROCKS Griff to ropes. Cage stands Griff up to CHOP! Nana says this is what they do to skinny blondies! Cage whips, but Griff KIKCKS back! Griff runs, but into an UPPERCUT! Cage suplexes, Griff slips free and BOOTS! Cage goes down! Hot tag to Gravity! Gravity runs in to slip around, but Cage swings the crucifix, only for Gravity to cradle counter! TWO, and Cage swings! Gravity dodges, handsprings, but into a waistlock! GERMAN SUPLEX, but Gravity lands on his feet!
Gravity SUPERKICKS, tilt-o-whirls, and rolls Cage to then ENZIGURI! Cage leans on ropes and fans fire up. Gravity runs, but Cage LARIATS him down! But Metalik tags in! CROSSBODY! Metalik takes Cage down, GAMANGIRIS Liona and DECKS Kaun! Metalik ROCKS Cage, CHOPS, and then flexes on him. Metalik whips, Cage reverses but Metalik handsprings! Cage gets clear, kicks low and whips Metalik to a corner, but Metalik BOOTS back! Metalik runs up to SLING-DOG! Cage flounders, fans fire up and Metalik goes up and along the ropes, MISSILE DROPKICK! Fans fire up m ore as Metalik goes up the corner!
Metalik aims, tightrope walks, and he SWANTONS! Cover, Kaun breaks it! Gravity SUPER PUNCHES Kaun! Kaun puts Gravity on the apron and HOTSHOTS Gravity down! Griff ROLLING ELBOWS Kaun! Fans fire up with Griff and he runs corner to corner, STINGER- NO, he hits only buckles, then Liona POUNCES him out of the ring!! Metalik CHOPS Kaun, CHOPS Liona, repeat! Cage is up, Metalik runs into a SUPERKICK! ROCK-A-BYE- NO!! Metalik slips out of the cradling! Metalik SUPERKICKS Liona, swings on Kaun but is put into a full nelson! Cage helps hoist Metalik up and Liona is up top! HAMMOCK SPLASH BOMB!! Cover, The Embassy wins!
Winners: The Mogul Embassy, by pinfall (denies Griff, Metalik & Gravity a title opportunity)
Just when it seems like these monsters were being figured out, they level up! Will anyone ever stop these three from dominating the ROH Trios Division?
Kiera Hogan VS Leila Grey!
As she said earlier tonight, Kiera will take on anyone and show them they’re not as hot. Will she heat up her win streak by taking down her former baddie in arms? Or will Leila show us why she’s the Last Baddie Standing?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the bell rings and the two circle. Fans rally, the two tie up, and Kiera headlocks. Leila pulls tights to put Kiera in the corner! The ref counts, Leila lets off and they both argue their case to the ref. Kiera and Leila reset and tie up, and Kiera wrenches the arm to headlock again. Leila pulls hair and tights and whatever else she can grab! Leila puts Kiera in the corner again, the ref reprimands and Leila lets off, to ROCK Kiera with a sucker punch! Leila grins, shrugs, and then whips Kiera corner to corner. Leila runs in but Kiera goes up and over, things speed up, and Kiera slides under to then KNEE Leila down!
Leila goes to ropes, Kiera runs in to HIP ATTACK! Kiera YANKS the rope to jam Leila up, then STEP-UP LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Leila goes to a corner, Kiera eggs her on and Leila says to chill out. But then Leila YANKS Kiera into the buckles! Leila stomps away, the ref has her back off. Leila says alright, fine. Leila drags Kiera up, whips her to ropes, and KNEES her low! Leila mocks Kiera’s pain, says “This is how Baddies do it, baby.” Leila ROCKS Kiera, TOSSES her across the way, then runs in to basement dropkick! Kiera flops against ropes, and Leila BRONCO BUSTERS! The ref counts and Leila lets off.
Leila stalks Kiera, drags her up, but fans duel as Leila CHOPS! Kiera goes to a corner, Leila CHOPS her again! Leila says one more, but Kiera CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Kiera whips, Leila reverses, and Leila BACK ELBOWS Kiera down! Leila soaks up the cheers and jeers, then kicks Kiera around. Leila stalks Kiera, runs in at the corner, but Kiera moves! Leila stops herself, comes back, spins Kiera and fireman’s carries, DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Kiera hangs in there and fans rally up. Leila pushes Kiera around, toys with her, and swings, but Kiera counter punches! And again! Kiera fires off forearms and fans fire up!
Leila shoves Kiera. Kiera dodges and CLOBBERS Leila! Kiera fires up, rallies with more forearms, and then SHOTGUNS Leila down! Kiera runs in at the corner, HIP ATTACK! Kiera goes side to side, BOOT WASH! Kiera pushes Leila to a cover, TWO!! Leila is hanging tough and Kiera grows frustrated. Fans rally behind Kiera and she storms up on Leila. Kiera runs, but Leila SPEARS! Cover, TWO!! Kiera survives and Leila is furious! Leila storms around, grabs her little hand fan, and she folds it up so it’s solid. She swings, misses, and Kiera SUPERKICKS! The ref catches the hand fan as it goes flying!
Kiera reels Leila in, says that’s all, PERIODT! FISHERMAN SCREW! Bridging cover, Kiera wins!
Winner: Kiera Hogan, by pinfall
Kiera made Leila #FaceTheMusic, and Kiera’s on top! Will this fire burn even hotter though the Summer is over?
Backstage interview with Maria Kanellis-Bennett.
Lexi is with the First Lady of Wrestling, and brings up the opportunity Maria said she was offering Griff Garrison. Can she tell us more about that? Maria says the opportunity she thinks she’ll explain to Griff in person first. But she loves creating opportunities for younger wrestlers, and this particular opportunity is to protect the legacy. The legacy built by her Kingdom- Wait, Cole Karter all but pushes Griff on set and proudly proclaims he found Griff for Maria. Also, he’s wearing a “I ♥ Hot Moms” shirt… Yes, thank you, Karter… Hi, Griff. How you feeling? Not so good. Yeah, she saw the match, and the loss.
But Maria still believes Griff has so much raw potential. Karter echoes “Raw potential!” Maria says that’s only if Griff is surrounded by the right people. So she wants Griff to know The Kingdom are the right people. Just think about that, okay? Yeah, just think about it, Griff. Karter follows Maria out, what will Griff choose to do with his future?
Six Man Tag: Willie Mack & The Infantry w/ Trish Adora VS Davey Bang, August Matthews & JAH-C!
Not only is it the Return of the Mack, it’s the return of Captain Shawn Dean & Carlie Bravo to active duty! Will this trio march their way into the Trios Division?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the trios sort out, and Carlie starts against Jah-C. They circle, fans rally up, and the two tie up. Carlie wrenches to a wristlock, then headlocks. Jah powers out but Carlie runs him over! Carlie wrenches and wrenches and tags in Dean. They double whip, Jah reverses and kicks, but Dean blocks to hand that off to Carlie, so then Dean can go around and ENZIGURI! Carlie then slips around to JUMP NECKBREAKER! Jah scrambles away, tag to August. Fans fire up as Dean points to Mack. Tag to Mack and fans rally up as Mack circles with one half of Team Bangin’. Mack swaggers up and eggs August on.
August goes for a leg but he can’t throw Mack over! Mack whips, drops, hurdles and rolls back. August leaps over but Mack HIP TOSSES hard! Mack then redirects August to GAMANGIRI! Cover, TWO! August scrambles away, tag to Bang. Mack tags Dean, Dean gets around Bang and JAB! JAB! JAB! Dean then spins and DECKS Bang! Fans fire up as Dean runs in to BIG BACK ELBOW Bang! Tag to Carlie, he runs in to juke and DECK Bang! Tag to Mack, feed to a SPINEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Bang survives but Mack says okay. Mack drags Bang up, says he’s gonna bang this bro, and he gets Bang up in a Canadian Rack.
Jah & August save Bang but Mack staggers into a tag. Jah, Bang & August regroup, but run into TRIPLE SUPERKICKS! Mack clears out Jah and August, and then Dean wrenches Bang. Carlie runs and the Infantry hit BOOT CAMP! Cover, Mack & Infantry win!
Winners: Willie Mack & The Infantry, by pinfall
Trish Adora celebrates with her boys, and Carlie is excited for this trio. Will they stick together to storm the Gates of Agony?
Backstage interview with Lee Johnson.
Lexi is with Big Shotty and brings up his ROH World Championship Proving Ground match. If Lee beats Claudio, he has a future world title match. That sounds great to Lee. Lee is back and hungry and feeling healthy! He feels like he can conquer any obstacle put in his way. “Claudio, tonight, you are that obstacle. And baby, I’ma shoot it to you straight like this. I am not here to take part, I am here to take over! So tonight, all I need is one shot.” Will Lee be able to bring down the Swiss Superman with that shot?
Leyla Hirsch VS Lady Frost!
ROH continues to be LEGIT with Leyla storming up the ranks, but she just ran into a cold front! Will Leyla still keep the win streak hot? Or will she fail to break the Coolest Wrestler You’ll Ever Meet?
The Code of Honor is not upheld as Leyla kicks the hand away! The bell rings, the two tie up and fans fire up as they go around. They break, tie up again, and go around again. They break again, and circle. Fans rally, the two tie up, and Frost powers Leyla back but Leyla turns it around. Frost fights out of the corner but Leyla arm-drags. Frost holds onto the collar ‘n’ elbow, and the two go around again. Frost drags Leyla down but Leyla drags Frost down. They stand, Leyla puts Frost in a corner but Frost goes up. Leyla arm-drags Frost away! The two reset, Frost gets around to waistlock but Leyla bucks the O’Conner, only for Frost to run her over!
Fans fire up and Frost runs. Frost jumps over Leyla’s dropdown, rolls back but into a KICK! Leyla drags Frost around, stomps the arm, and then drops knees on the elbow! Maria appears on stage, and Karter follows like the lovesick puppy dog he is, as Leyla is still Maria’s number one prospect. Frost endures as Leyla drops elbows on the elbow, then stomps the arm again! Leyla drags Frost around, then KICKS the bad arm! The ref reprimands, Leyla argues with him, but Frost rolls her up! TWO, and Leyla knees low! Leyla whips Frost to a corner, runs in and FOREARM SMASH! Leyla sits Frost down, runs and SWINGING DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO!
Frost is hanging in there but Leyla clamps onto that bad arm! Frost resists the Fujiwara but Leyla taunts her and rubs her forearm in Frost’s face. Maria likes what she sees but fans rally up. Frost fights to her feet, but Leyla wrangles her right back down! Frost endures, fights up again, but Maria smirks as Leyla still has control. Frost ROCKS Leyla, but Leyla gets that bad arm to WRING it! But Frost rolls through! Frost rallies on Leyla with elbows and clotheslines! Frost then dodges to kick a leg out, but Leyla ducks the buzzsaw! But the HEEL KICK hits! Leyla goes to a corner, Frost runs in, and she handsprings to CANNONBALL! Fans fire up, Frost covers, TWO!
Frost grows frustrated but Leyla is tough. Frost runs up again, SPIN- NO, Leyla avoids the kick by inches! And gets Frost for an EXPLODER! Fans fire up, Leyla drags Frost by the bad arm, LEGIT ARMBAR!! Frost taps, Leyla wins!
Winner: Leyla Hirsch, by submission
And the LEGIT win streak makes it to 10-0! Maria and Karter join Leyla in the ring, Karter holding the rope open for her. Not that she needed it but nice that he offered. Maria offers a handshake to Leyla, but Leyla just walks past Maria. Leyla says she doesn’t need anyone, she’s doing just fine all on her own. Maria says okay, but will she cook up something to prove Leyla wrong?
Eddie Kingston & Katsuyori Shibata VS Blake Christian & Gringo Loco!
The Mad King & The Wrestler made a powerful combo at All Out, but a minor miscalculation allowed Claudio Castagnoli & Wheeler Yuta to win. Will the NJPW Strong Openweight and ROH Pure Champions redeem themselves on ROH TV? Or will All Heart & The Crazy White Boy get themselves some golden tickets in Chicago?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the teams sort out, and fans rally behind Eddie but Shibata starts with Blake. They circle, fans chant for Gringo. Shibata and Blake tie up, Shibata waistlocks but Blake pries the hold open. Shibata shifts to a full nelson, then he spins and snapmares Blake down to a chilock. Blake endures the knee in his back, bridges up to relieve some pressure, but Shibata gets a leg and ties Blake right up into a FIGURE FOUR! Blake endures, fans rally, and Shibata adds pressure by pulling on the foot. Shibata eggs Blake on, avoids his haymakers, and then pushes up for more pressure!
Blake scrambles and gets the ROPEBREAK! Shibata lets off fast, and he brings Blake up. Shibata bumps Blake off buckles, tags in Eddie and fans cheer as Eddie starts up the MACHINE GUN CHOPS! Fans fire up as Eddie tops it off, then tags Shibata. Shibata CHPOS, JABS and repeat! Fans fire up and the ref counts, Blake sits down and Shibata shakes out his hand. Blake’s got some busted and bloody blisters as Shibata tags Eddie back in. Eddie drags Blake up to clinch, and EXPLODER! Cover, ONE!! Blake is hanging in there but Eddie brings Blake up. Eddie suplexes, Blake slips free and duck sunder to handspring and NEURALIZER!
Blake hurries to hot tag Gringo! Fans fire up as Gringo steps to Eddie, and CHOPS! Eddie eggs Gringo on, so Gringo CHOPS again! Eddie brings down the straps and fans fire up. Gringo CHOPS again, but Eddie CHOPS, CHOPS and CHOPS! Eddie runs, into a CALF KICK! Gringo brings Eddie up to whip to ropes, but Eddie reverses, drops under, but Gringo stops to STANDING MOONSAULT! Gringo keeps moving to SENTON! Cover, TWO! Gringo says it was that close, and the fans rally up behind him. Gringo drags Eddie up, brings him over, and tags in Blake. Blake runs to BLAST Shibata, then he comes back to stomp Eddie.
Blake whips, Eddie reverses but Gringo puts Blake up top. Eddie runs in, into a SUPERKICK! Gringo goes up to join Blake and he fires the fans up! Gringo DOUBLE JUMP MOONSAULTS, and then Blake follows in kind with a 450 SPLASH! Cover, Shibata breaks it! Fans rally, Blake stomps Eddie then goes up again. FROG SPLASH onto knees! Eddie saves himself but that was a little double-edged! Fans rally up, Eddie and Blake crawl, hot tag to Shibata! Shibata runs to BOOT Gringo, then he storms up on Blake. Shibata runs Blake to the corner to then BOOT him! Shibata fires off forearms, runs corner to corner, HYDRAULIC DROPKICK!
Fans fire up and Shibata hauls Blake up, HALF HATCH! Cover, Gringo breaks it! Gringo CHOPS Shibata down, rallies the fans, and Gringo aims, but Eddie storms in. Eddie blocks a kick, spins Gringo, but Gringo DRAGON WHIPS! Eddie wobbles, but he URAKENS! Gringo goes down, Eddie swings on Blake but Blake blocks and snapmares, to basement dropkick! Fans fire up as Blake takes aim and builds speed, to FLY! Fosbury Flop takes Eddie down! Fans fire up as Blake hurries to put Shibata back in and aims from the apron. SPRINGBOARD 450, but he has to roll through as Shibata moves!
Blake runs back in to SOBAT! Blake handsprings, but into a SLEEPER!! Shibata squeezes tight, sits Blake down, and then runs to PENALTY KICK!! Cover, Shibata & Eddie win!
Winners: Eddie Kingston & Katsuyori Shibata, by pinfall
The champions win out this time, but they still show respect to Blake & Gringo. Who will be next to challenge The Wrestler for his Pure title? And will The Mad King get himself a shot at Claudio Castagnoli?
Backstage with Josh Woods & Mark Sterling.
Lexi is with The Technical Beast and Smart Mark, and says Woods has seen a lot of success since separating from The Varsity Athletes to focus on his own singles career. So then, what is next for him? Sterling says there has been a lot of success. We’re here in the United Center in Chicago, and Sterling says he got to thinking of the people here. The people of Chicago got to sit through Michael Jordan’s career, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, in his prime. Then Sterling thinks about the people around the world that some day will get to say, “I saw Josh Woods, the greatest wrestler of all time, live.”
And it is just unfortunate that Woods wasn’t doing that tonight here. Because the talent here in ROH is just not up to snuff for Josh Woods, the NATIONAL CHAMPION! So consider this an open challenge. Woods would like to take on the best of the best pure wrestlers from around the world. Because Woods is #DTF, Down To Fight! Any time, any where! Call Sterling at 347-SMART-40, and let’s see what we can do. Then who will answer the call by giving Sterling a call and take on the national champion?
ROH World Championship Proving Ground Match: Claudio Castagnoli w/ Wheeler Yuta VS Lee Johnson!
The Swiss Superman has been ignoring Eddie Kingston while calling out everyone else to step up. Big Shotty’s ready to step up, but will this be his shot? Or will he not even make it to the time limit?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the bell rings, and we’re on the clock. They tie up, Claudio puts Lee in a corner, but the ref counts. Claudio lets off and he pie faces Lee. So Lee SLAPS back! Claudio UPPERCUTS again and again and again! The ref counts, Claudio UPPERCUTS until Lee sits down, then even UPPERCUTS some more! The ref counts, Claudio lets off so as not to hand Lee this win. Lee sputters, crawls along the ropes, and tries to get up. Claudio brings Lee up to back suplex high and hard! Kneeling cover, ONE! Lee huffs ‘n’ puffs and fans rally, but Claudio drags Lee up to scoop and SLAM!
Lee writhes, Claudio stalks him to ropes, and fans rally up. Claudio gets the legs to YANK Lee up, but Lee lands on his feet! Lee slips under, rolls Claudio up, ONE!! Claudio runs in but into an ELBOW! Lee ENZIGURIS, then goes up and up and QUEBRADAS, but is caught! Claudio shakes his head, pops Lee around, but Lee swings it to a DDT! Cover, TWO! SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO! Claudio shakes his head but Lee pounds the mat. Fans rally up, Lee fires himself up, and he fireman’s carries! Claudio blocks, so Lee throws forearms! Claudio eggs Lee on, Lee runs, but Claudio UPPERCUTS him down! Cover, TWO!
Lee shakes his head, he is still in this. Claudio says okay, and he throws off the elbow pad! UPPERCUT into an arm hook! Claudio fights Lee’s backslide, flips things around, but Lee flips up and over. CRADLE! TWO!! Claudio escapes, to LARIAT Lee right down! Cover, TWO!?! Lee survives that shot and Claudio is surprised! Fans fire up but Claudio shakes his head. Claudio clamps onto Lee, for HAMMER ‘N’ ANVIL ELBOWS! The BCC special is rag-dolling Lee! The ref checks, but Claudio says no! He wants to finish this! POP-UP UPPERCUT!! Cover, Claudio wins!
Winner: Claudio Castagnoli, by pinfall (denies Lee Johnson a title opportunity)
Claudio “shows respect” with the Code of Honor handshake, but no one has even slowed him down. Will anyone come close to taking this title from him?
The Iron Savages w/ Jacked Jameson VS Wren Jones & Kaleb Konley!
As Jacked Jameson says himself, Dirty Bulk Bronson & Beefcake Boulder are beefy ‘n’ bulky, jacked ‘n’ juicy, LAAAARGE~ and in charge! They’re sippin’ sauce and livin’ hoss, will they make ROH the Savage Sanctuary?
The Code of Honor is upheld, the teams sort out, and Bronson starts against “The Midnight Son,” Kaleb Konley. The two circle, tie up, and Bronson shoves Konley down! Konley storms up to shove Bronson but Bronson shoves him back. Konley kicks, Bronson blocks and CLOBBERS him! And again! Bronson whips Konley, scoops and POWERSLAMS! Bronson drags Konley over, tags in Boulder, and Boulder scoops Konley. Konley slips free, tags to Jones, and Jones CHOPS! Jones fires up but Boulder doesn’t flinch! Boulder scoops Jones and catches Konley, SCRAPBUSTER SIDEWALK SLAM COMBO!
Boulder brings down the straps and fans fire up! Tag to Bronson, and Boulder hoists Bronson up! Electric Chair Lift, SAVAGE SPLASH!! Cover, The Savages win!!
Winners: The Iron Savages, by pinfall
A fast and furious win for these behemoths, and Bronson’s ready to bust! But will they bust through to the next level and get some gold?
Backstage interview with Athena and Billie Starkz.
Lexi is with the Fallen Goddess and her minion, and we’ve seen them as a duo. Is Athena satisfied with Billie’s, uh, “minionship?” Athena asks Lexi where is her shirt. Y’know, the custom made, 17 hours of work, rhinestone encrusted friendship shirt?! Lexi takes off her coat to show she has it on. Good. At least someone appreciates Athena. Athena then brings Billie in by her collar and tells her that Athena has done everything for her! Athena’s taken Billie under her wing and given her more passes than her own mother! Athena doesn’t know where she’s gone wrong! Three times, Billie has left Athena hanging. THREE TIMES!! WHY!?
Has Athena not been good to Billie? Billie defends she did everything she was supposed to. Everything…? Oh, well, Billie didn’t know! That’s it! Athena says they’ll give Billie some home training. Some minion training. Athena drags Billie off, just what kind of training is that going to be? Will Billie survive it?
8 Man Tag: Action Andretti, Darius Martin & Best Friends VS The Workhorsemen & The Outrunners!
The Sight to See and the Air Wolf join forces with The Kentucky Gentleman and #JustTrent to take on JD Drake, Anthony Henry, Turbo Floyd & Truth Magnum in a battle of friendship! Sorta. But then, which team of super friends comes out on top?
No Code of Honor here as Henry leads the attack! Henry knocks down Trent, JD and Truth mug Action, then Truth & Turbo go after Darius and Chuck! The bell rings, fans boo, but the brawling continues on! Turbo keeps Chuck in the ring, everyone else spills out, and fans rally up. Turbo then throws Chuck out, while the Workhorsemen whip Trent to ropes from the outside, and JD DECKS Trent on the rebound! Truth SMACKS Darius off the apron, Henry CALF KICKS Trent over the railing! Fans boo but the Outrunners soak up the heat. Henry slides in, JD drags Trent over the railing and sends him in.
Henry drags Trent up, scoops him, but Trent slips off! JD tags in before the O’Conner Roll so he can DDT Trent! Cover, TWO! JD drags Trent up, tags in Turbo and Turbo tags Truth. The Outrunners coordinate, POWERSLAM NECKBREAKER COMBO! Cover, Chuck breaks it! Fans fire up but Turbo BLASTS Action! Truth drags Trent over, tags Henry, and Henry whips Trent to a corner. Henry whips JD in, JD CANNONBALLS! Henry hurries up top now, JD BLASTS Chuck, Action & Darius! Henry DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS Trent! Cover, TWO!! Trent survives and Henry is furious, but he drags Trent over.
Fans rally, Henry taunts Trent and says they’re gonna finish this. Henry reaches out but Turbo snipes the tag from JD! JD is upset but Henry calms him down, they’re all the same team right now anyway. Turbo drags Trent up, tags Truth in, and they try again, but Trent slips free! Trent shoves Outrunners into each other! Fans fire up, Trent fights the Workhorsemen off, but The Outrunners keep Trent from his corner! JD wants them to hit Trent, but Trent ducks their double clothesline to hot tag Darius! Fans fire up as Darius rallies on The Outrunners with big forearms! Atomic drop for Truth, then a CHOP!
Darius whips Truth, Truth reverses but Darius BOOTS him back! Darius goes up, reels Truth in, and he gets Turbo at the same time, DOUBLE DDT COMBO! JD runs in to CHOP Darius! JD talks trash, ROCKS Darius with forearm after forearm, but Action runs in. Action ducks a chop, Darius gives him a boost into the wheelbarrow, and then they combine for a BULLDOG BASEMENT DROPKICK COMBO! But Henry PENALTY KICKS Action! And PELES Darius! Henry waistlocks but Darius switches. Henry ELBOWS free, only to run into a SHOTGUN GERMAN SUPLEX COMBO! Fans fire up but the Outrunners CLOBBER Action & Darius!
Action tumbles out, The Outrunners mug Darius, then they say they’re gonna go up! They double suplex Darius but Chuck makes the save! Darius hot tags Trent, and Chuck sends Outrunners into each other! Trent brings Turbo around, SOLE FOOD HALF ‘N’ HALF! Action & Darius return, fans fire up, and they GROUP HUG! You GOT to give the people- Oh, wait, Excalibur isn’t here. Then Action & Darius DOUBLE PLANCHA The Workhorsemen and Truth! Trent hauls Turbo up, Chuck climbs up, STRONG ZERO!! Cover, Best Friends and friends win!
Winners: Action Andretti, Darius Martin & Best Friends, by pinfall
A big win in the main event for these teams, and they’re ready to chase down those ROH World Tag Team Championships! But will it be Top Flight MKII or Best Friends that catch MJF & Adam Cole first?
My Thoughts:
A really good ROH here, though this was an hour and 43 minutes, a touch longer than they’ve been going lately. Good filler stuff like Skye & Willow getting another win together, SAP getting another win of their own, The Iron Savages getting on the winning side again, and Willie & The Infantry having a fun first win as a trio. Eddie & Shibata VS Blake & Gringo was also basically a filler match but also really good. I do like that Eddie & Shibata are sticking together, but it feels like this match was a test run for the All Out match with Claudio & Yuta (because duh, ROH is prerecorded). Still hoping that win at All Out then brings us around to Eddie VS Claudio, Winner Takes All.
Great stuff from the ROH Women’s World Championship story, with a really good promo to open the show and set up tonight’s title match. Really good title match, too, and I like that Athena is trying to force Billie into being a Heel like her and it not working. I would hope we get a vignette of this “minion training” for some fun and hilarious bits, but also this has to move Billie towards standing up to Athena and getting her own title match. Good match from Kiera VS Leila Grey, and good match from Frost VS Leyla Hirsch. Good story intertwining between all the prospects Maria Kanellis has her eyes on, and especially Leyla brushing Maria off.
Karter’s shirt is basically a sign he simps for Maria, and I really feel this is all going to blow up in his face. I don’t know if Griff takes Maria’s offer, but it would be funny if Maria passes on Karter for Griff. Nese of course keeps trying the Group Training but he at least gets a win tonight. Also good promo from Sterling to set up an open challenge, can’t wait to see who answers.
And really good 8 Man Tag main event, though also a bit of a filler in itself. Good win for the Faces, but there’s a lot of other stuff going on with the tag titles since MJF & Adam Cole have them. I would love if MJF & Cole actually showed up on ROH TV but HAH, like that happens with those two being such big names and ROH not being actually seen as a big deal. Because, duh, they put the tag titles on the two big names of AEW to add drama to their brochacho story.
My Score: 8.6/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (1/31/25)
One last stop before the Royal Rumble!
One last chance for Michin!
Mia Yim has been trying and trying to win the WWE Women’s US Championship, will this finally be her night? Or will Chelsea Green find a way to survive?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Jimmy Uso VS Carmelo Hayes; Jimmy wins.
- WWE Women’s United States Championship: Chelsea Green w/ Piper Niven VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab; Mia wins, by disqualification, and Chelsea retains the title.
- 8 Man Tag: Motor City Machine Guns & Los Garza VS DIY & Pretty Deadly; win.
- Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez; wins.
- The Miz VS Andrade; wins.
- LA Knight & Damian Priest VS Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga; win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Tonight, SmackDown’s first hour is COMMERCIAL FREE!
Michael Cole & Pat McAfee are here!
Maggle welcomes out Indianapolis’s own, and the fans cheer on “MCAFEE! MCAFEE!” as he joins Cole on stage. Pat appreciates everyone here so much. Since the day he got to start his dream job of being in the WWE after playing for this city and the Indianapolis Colts, he has been pleading bring a massive event to the greatest city on planet Earth! The Royal Rumble is tomorrow, we know it’s down the road. But if you’re in from out of town, from another country, what you are going to witness from this city is nothing short of world class! They host some of the biggest events every single year!
They host national championships, they host Olympic trials, they host Final Fours, they host everything, and they’re the best to ever do it because these people are the greatest on Earth! The bars are ready, the restaurants are ready, and the roof on Lucas Oil is ready to blow off! The Royal Rumble is tomorrow night, and it is the absolute perfect thing to happen. Pat loves this place, he loves the WWE, and he is so damn thankful to this city! Let’s have a Royal Rumble weekend! Maggle hands it off to Joe Tessitore in the ring, and he says what a great start to the show.
Last week, Joe had the distinct honor to interview Cody Rhodes, only for half an hour later, Kevin Owens appeared to question Joe’s integrity, claiming he is not getting fair treatment. So Joe will give the challenge proper time to be heard. Please welcome Kevin Owens. The fans boo as the Prizefighter makes his way out, wearing a classic KO duct tape shirt, and he joins Joe in the ring. The Winged Eagle and corporate logo belts hang above the ring as Kevin steps inside, but Kevin doesn’t even look at Joe as he hears the fans either boo or chant for Cody.
Joe says it has been very difficult to look past Kevin’s recent actions. The attacks, the threats, the attempts to hurt others. But as Kevin stood over Joe and stated his argument, Joe did think of his role in how he covers that. Joe does want to give Kevin his chance to be heard. So then in Kevin’s opinion, what is being misunderstood or misrepresented? Kevin says this is Joe’s way of making amends, right? This is him making it up to Kevin? Because last week, Kevin only saw Joe caring about Cody’s feelings, being a Cody fanboy. But don’t worry, Joe’s not the only one who disrespects Kevin.
Last Monday, Seth Rollins, CM Punk and Cody Rhodes all saying they were facing this or that person at WrestleMania, glossing over the fact that KEVIN will win tomorrow night at the Royal Rumble. Joe says he won’t apologize for doing his job of talking with Cody. But her does apologize if Kevin feels he hasn’t gotten a fair opportunity, and that is what this is for. Kevin asks if Joe thinks he’s a tough guy. No, he’s a 53-year-old broadcaster. Then Kevin doesn’t accept the apology. In fact, Joe can shove it! Kevin has nothing to say to Joe, he is just here to take the Winged Eagle back.
Kevin takes the belt down off the hanger, and says he’ll take the other one tomorrow night. Kevin says he’ll see you later, but then CM PUNK shows up! The fans cheer as The Second City Saint says, “It’s Clobbering Time!” Punk then high-fives fans on his way to the ring. Punk steps in and grabs himself a mic, the fans chant his name, but Kevin is not amused. The fans lose their minds seeing this stare down, but then boo as Kevin looks to speak. “Can I help you?” Punk says no, Kevin can’t. And Punk isn’t here to help Kevin, but to apologize. Sorry for interrupting Kevin, Punk knows how that feels, and he also knows there’s no love lost for Seth Rollins.
But Punk heard his name invoked so he took it as an invitation. The second apology is that Kevin makes great points, and Punk apologizes for looking past Kevin like it’s so automatic that Cody will get past Kevin. It isn’t, so again, Punk apologizes. But just so Kevin knows, when Punk wins the Royal Rumble match, and yes when he does, and if Kevin makes it past a very angry Cody Rhodes, then hell! The main event of WrestleMania could very well be Kevin Owens as champion VS CM Punk! And just man to man, face to face, Punk is coming for that title. So congratulations, champ, but it’s not gonna last long.
Kevin says he feels very conflicted right now. On one hand, there are a lot of guys in the Rumble that he likes more than Punk. In fact, there are 29 guys he likes more than Punk. And Kevin doesn’t even know who all is in that match, but still. But then, the thought of Punk and Kevin in the main event of WrestleMania, what sounds good is the thought of Kevin beating Punk’s ass in the main event of WrestleMania. Kevin knows what main-eventing Mania means. It is a goal Punk’s had since he was a kid. That’s why last year was so heartbreaking when Punk got hurt. In fact, when Punk left 10 years ago, he probably spent time regretting never main-eventing Mania.
But Punk is back and it is right at his fingertips, isn’t it? Kevin has to say, the idea of Punk never getting to main event WrestleMania is so good to Kevin. Kevin loves the idea of Punk never realizing his dream. Kevin gets a warm, fuzzy feeling when he pictures Punk, old, broken and alone, obsessing over the fact that Kevin is a multi-time WrestleMania main eventer while Punk goes to his grave a miserable failure. The fans boo as Kevin gets in Punk’s face with that. Kevin says he hopes Punk doesn’t win the Royal Rumble. Kevin takes his leave but Punk asks where he’s going. The party’s just getting started!
Yeah, sure, Punk hasn’t main-evented WrestleMania. That’s on him for setting goals that’re that big. But Kevin has! Twice! That’s good. Kevin’s done a lot in his career, he’s tough, one of the best, one of the biggest stars backstage. But here’s something Punk also hasn’t done that someone else has, stop him if you know who it is. Punk has never lost five title matches at the Royal Rumble. Oh, that was Kevin. Here’s a big one! Punk has never lost to Logan Paul. Oof, almost too stiff to repeat. And here’s something Punk hasn’t even done, nor attempted: Punk’s never manipulated his best friend, who he’s also stabbed in the back, all to help win the world title because he wasn’t confident enough.
Win, lose, or draw, Punk does things by himself. Kevin doesn’t, he takes shortcuts. Planets have to align, but realistically, two things have to happen tomorrow night for these two to be the main event of WrestleMania. One: Punk has to throw 29 other men that Kevin likes more than him over the top rope. Two: Kevin has to survive a very pissed off Cody in a dangerous ladder match. Only one thing has to happen for Kevin to get his ass kicked by Punk and that’s step back into the ring. Yeah, Punk may never wrestle the main event of WrestleMania, but he can still kick Kevin’s ass! Just get in the ring! Don’t be scared!
The fans cheer on Punk, the mics drop, and Kevin sets down the Winged Eagle. Only to then drop off the apron and take his leave for real. Punk mockingly applauds but the fans boo. Will Punk keep up his end of the WrestleMania main event by winning the Rumble? Can Kevin conquer Cody and be THE Undisputed WWE Champion?
The Miz talks with Nick Aldis.
The Hollywood A-Lister complains that the SmackDown General Manager says make new friends, he makes friends with A-Town Down Under, but then Aldis sends them away to Raw! Aldis says that wasn’t just his decision. Miz then brings up going to Andrade, offering him the role of a lifetime to work side-by-side with Miz, and then Andrade walks away?! That guy should be begging for the spotlight of Miz’s star power. Some people just doesn’t recognize greatness when it stares them in the face. Miz could’ve taught Andrade so much. If Andrade was here right now, Miz would punch him in his face, that’d teach him!
Aldis nods, and Miz realizes Andrade’s right behind him. Miz turns around and El Idolo says that sounded like a challenge. No, no, Miz is just saying Andrade was being stubborn, he could learn some things from Miz. Oh, learn something? Then prove it! Miz and Andrade, here tonight! No, Miz doesn’t have to prove anything. His career speaks for itself. But if Andrade wants a lesson in greatness, then fine! Miz will teach Andrade any time, anywhere! Then no time like the present! Aldis says Miz VS Andrade is a done deal! Andrade says see you out there. Aldis says this will be a barn burner. But will Miz be the one getting burned?
Jimmy Uso speaks.
“Yeah! so Carmelo wants to make a name off o’ Big Jim. The veteran VS the rookie! Hey, listen, dog! I’ve been to game 7. I’ve main-evented WrestleMania. But you? You got a lot to prove tonight. Because if you miss, it’s a rebound off the glass, shake ‘n’ bake, 360, BOOYAH! Ball game.” #BigJim is ready to dunk on H1M, but will Jimmy’s defense not be as good as his offense? Also, was that Shinsuke Nakamura lurking in the background…?
Jimmy Uso VS Carmelo Hayes!
As Melo makes his entrance, he has a mic, and he says that he wasn’t gonna come out here and say anything, but if Jimmy wants to talk, then let’s talk. Jimmy’s the one talking like he’s the one, but he’s really the two. And talking about Melo missing? Melo won’t miss because he ain’t Tyrese Halliburton. The Pacers fans boo, and Tyrese is even here! Melo tells Jimmy to get his guard up, because Melo’s about to drop 50 on his head! Melo goes to the ring, but Jimmy runs up! Melo HOTSHOTS Jimmy away, then CLOBBERS him! The bell rings, Melo stomps away, but the ref counts. Melo lets off, soaks up heat, and he whips Jimmy to ropes.
Melo ELBOWS Jimmy down, talks some smack, then stalks Jimmy to a corner. Melo CHOPS Jimmy, follows him to another corner, then CHOPS again! Melo HEADBUTTS Jimmy, but Melo’s the one who feels dizzy! Wade Barrett confirms on commentary, never headbutt a Samoan! Jimmy comes back to CHOP! And CHOP! And CHOP! Jimmy then pops, locks, but Melo kicks low. Melo whips, Jimmy reverses, but Melo turns hip toss into a takedown and lateral press! TWO, Jimmy ghost pins! TWO, and Jimmy UPPERCUTS Melo down! The fans fire up and Jimmy says No YEET. Jimmy whips Melo to ropes, but Melo grabs ropes!
Jimmy runs up, he LARIATS Melo up and out! Jimmy shouts out Tyrese and builds speed, but Melo CLOBBERS him! Melo KICKS Jimmy in the side, stomps him to a corner, then mocks the “UCE! OH!” HIP ATTACK! Melo dribbles and shoots his shot. Tyrese gives a thumbs down, wasn’t good form. Melo runs back in, but Jimmy avoids the hip toss! POP-UP DDT COUNTER! Melo turns that around on Jimmy then cover, TWO! Melo drags Jimmy up, tosses him out, then talks smack again. Melo builds speed, and he FLIES! Direct hit and Melo even lands on his feet! The fans boo but Melo brings Jimmy up.
Melo puts Jimmy in, then he gets in Tyrese’s face! Will Melo is a Boston guy. But Jimmy DIVES onto Melo! Big Jim didn’t miss, and he high-fives Tyrese. The fans rally up as Jimmy puts Melo in the ring. Jimmy aims but Melo dodges the superkick! Jimmy blocks Melo’s kick, Melo blocks Jimmy’s kick, but Jimmy hits the DRAGON WHIP! The fans fire up and Jimmy shows Melo how it’s done! “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” HIP ATTACK misses as Melo moves! But then Jimmy POP-UP SAMOAN DROPS! Cover, TWO! Melo survives that slam dunk but Jimmy goes up the corner. The fans rally for Jimmy as he reaches the top.
Melo CLUBS Jimmy on the back! Melo goes up the corner, fires hands on Jimmy, then reels him back in. Melo aims for the outside!? The fans boo but Jimmy blocks Melo’s suplex! Jimmy fires body shots, and he adjusts his position. Jimmy hits a SUPER QUICK DRAW NECKBREAKER!! Both men are down while the fans rally up! Jimmy rises, aims, and mule kicks! Then he pops, locks ‘n’ UPPERCUTS! Melo rebounds, Jimmy dodges, but Jimmy jumps into the FIRST 48!! Cover, TWO!! Melo grows frustrated but the fans rally up again! Melo says this is it, and he goes to ropes, Jimmy avoids the fadeaway to SUPERKICK!
The fans fire up and Jimmy covers, TWO! Melo survives but he does clutch his jaw. Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and USO SPLASH onto knees! Melo cradles, TWO! Melo runs up, KNEES Jimmy down, then goes up the corner! The fans rally for Jimmy but Melo takes aim! FLYING SPLASH!! Cover, TWO!! Melo’s shocked that his copycat splash didn’t finish this! Melo grits his teeth and goes back to the corner. Melo says he’ll just hit that one more time. Melo climbs, the fans rally up for Jimmy, and Jimmy GAMANGIRIS Melo! Jimmy goes up to fireman’s carry Melo, but Melo fights free! And he rolls Jimmy, with ropes!
The ref sees that, he says no way! Jimmy rolls Melo up, with tights! JIMMY WINS!!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Big Jim grins as he gets the better of Melo! Melo has a lot to learn, but will no one get one over on H1M again?
Backstage interview with Chelsea Green & Piper Niven.
Byron Saxton is with the Women’s United States Champion and her “Secret Her-vice Agent.” Chelsea will defend her title against Michin one more time after she pinned Chelsea in last week’s tag team match. Is Chelsea concerned about what could happen tonight? Chelsea tells “Bryan” that last week, Mia Yim tried to destroy the face of the United States! So guess what? Tonight, Chelsea will return the favor. Then she heads straight to the Royal Rumble, wins the match, and gets herself, her Secret Her-vice, and her motorcade will parade all the way to WrestleMania, where Chelsea will again WIN!
The Hot Mess heads out, Piper by her side, but she has to stay focused on Michin. Will this be the last time the #RedWhiteandGreen has to worry about Code Blue? Or will Mia finally be the Head Baddie in Charge?
WWE Women’s United States Championship: Chelsea Green w/ Piper Niven VS Mia Yim w/ B-Fab!
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and with the numbers even, we see who is really worthy of the title!
The bell rings, Mia and Chelsea tie up, and Chelsea throws Mia by her hair! Chelsea salutes, but Mia snatches her to a victory roll! TWO, and both women get up! Mia rolls Chelsea up, ONE! Chelsea bails out to hide behind Piper, and the fans are torn as Chelsea protests. Chelsea storms in, Mia grins, and the two reset. They circle, tie up, and they both pull hair! Chelsea puts Mia in the corner, the ref counts, but Chelsea SLAPS Mia! Mia is pissed and Chelsea runs away! Mia catches up to her for a GERMAN SU PLEX! And then another GERMAN SUPLEX! Chelsea elbows Mia, whips her, but Mia reverses! Chelsea bails out, but she forgets which side she’s on!
B-Fab spooks Chelsea, then Mia BOOTS her from the apron! Mia builds speed, and she DIVES! Down goes Chelsea and the fans fire up with Mia! Mia drags Chelsea up and into the ring, then covers, TWO! Chelsea stays in this but Mia stays on her with a wrench. Chelsea fights free to get away from Da Feet! Mia runs after Chelsea and RAMS her into the corner! Mia climbs up, rains down fists, and the fans count along! But Chelsea DUMPS Mia out at 5! The fans are torn, B-Fab tells Piper to stay back, and so does the ref. Chelsea goes out to SMACK Mia off the apron, then RAMS her in! And she SMACKS Mia off the apron!
Chelsea says pledge allegiance, idiots! Then she storms in for a cover, TWO! Chelsea clamps onto Mia with a chinlock but Mia endures the grind. The fans rally, Mia fights up, and Mia arm-drags free! Chelsea runs back up, and slides to BASEMENT FLATLINER! Chelsea says, “You like that?!” The fans are torn, but Chelsea motorcycle stretches and STOMPS Mia into buckles! Cover, TWO! Mia stays in this, Chelsea covers again, ONE!! Chelsea is frustrated, but she drags Mia up to facelock. Mia fights the squeeze but Chelsea thrashes her around. Mia fights up, the fans rally, and Mia fires body shots. And she blocks a suplex!
Mia suplexes Chelsea and the fans cheer! Mia and Chelsea go to corners, Chelsea runs up, but Mia BOOTS her! Mia goes up and RANAS! Chelsea tumbles, stands, blocks a kick, but not the mule kick! SOBAT! PELE! Mia runs to PENALTY KICK! Chelsea flounders to ropes but Mia says get this twerk! Mia runs in to CANNONBALL! Mia high stacks Chelsea, TWO! Mia grows frustrated but she drags Chelsea up, Chelsea rolls Mia! TWO! Chelsea goes for legs, but Mia blocks and backslides! TWO! Both women stay hooked up, and they fight up to their feet! Chelsea breaks free, wrenches Mia, turns her, but Mia jumps to body scissor roll!
Mia has the cover, TWO! Chelsea has body scissors now, GEDO CLUTCH! TWO! Mia escapes, wrenches, EAT DA FEET!! But Piper drags Chelsea to safety! The fans are torn, the ref reprimands, but B-Fab BOOTS Piper down! B-Fab puts Chelsea in for Mia but Chelsea scrambles away !Mia hurries to chase her down! Mia keeps Chelsea from getting into the crowd, but then Chelsea just goes the other way! Chelsea grabs the kendo stick and SMACKS Mia!! Chelsea disqualifies herself!!
Winner: Mia Yim, by disqualification (Chelsea retains the title)
When all else failed, Chelsea uses Champion’s Advantage to survive! And she SMACKS Mia even more! The fans fire up as Chelsea storms in after Mia, but then B-Fab gets Chelsea’s attention. Chelsea takes a swing, B-Fab gets away, and Mia gets up! Mia kicks Chelsea, takes the stick back, and she SMACKS Chelsea! And SMACKS her! And SMACKS her again! The fans cheer but Chelsea still runs away with the gold. Will Mia get one more chance because of the controversy?
Backstage interview with Bianca Belair & Naomi.
Byron is now with the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, and says that chaotic conclusion to the US Championship match could very well be the same as in the Women’s Rumble. Both Bianca and Naomi are in that match, so he’s gotta ask, what happens if it comes down to just Naomi and Bianca? Bianca can’t believe everyone keeps asking them that. Bianca gets it, they are a tag team that’s going into the Royal Rumble, but they’re still going to be a team afterward, that’s all that matters. Naomi agrees, and they will support each other no matter the outcome.
Yes! Because if Bianca wins, Naomi will win! If Naomi doesn’t win, Bianca will win! It’s a win-win! Then they can point at the WrestleMania sign all excited, like this! Byron says that’s good, but we also know Liv & Raquel have their eyes on the tag titles. Bianca says they can try all they want, but Bianca & Naomi aren’t going down without a fight. Naomi says those two better be ready to Rumble. The champs head out, will Indianapolis all feel the StrongEST Glow?
Charlotte Flair speaks,
“‘Charlotte Flair, she’s selfish.’ I am. They say I’m greedy. Why wouldn’t I be? I have worked my ass off this past year to get where I am. I’ve heard the whispers, I’ve heard the stories. Guess what? They’re all true. There’s a reason why it’s lonely at the top. I don’t need to make friends. I’ve had one goal since I’ve started, and guess what? I reached that goal, I stayed on top for 10 years, and I’m not going to let this last year define me. I am fortunate, I am blessed, but I am also the history-making, groundbreaking, never scared, always prepared, self-made, always paid, THE Woman of WWE.” With a wink and a smile, The Queen is on her way back! Will her return through the Royal Rumble be just the thing to take her back to the mountaintop?
Damian Priest is here!
Indianapolis fires up seeing The Punisher make his way to the ring, truly part of the SmackDown brand after his win last week over Carmelo Hayes. Priest grabs a mic and says, “Four years ago, I started on Monday Night Raw. That’s all I’ve known since then. Back then, I cared about my name living forever. I wanted to make an impact, I wanted to be known. I went from betrayer to betrayed. I went from follower to leader. I went from a nobody to a world champion.” The fans cheer that! Priest says he isn’t going to live in the past, that was Raw. He is now here on SmackDown. He won’t try to make a name or an impact. Here, the goal is championships!
And that starts by throwing asses over the top rope in the Royal Rumble! When he does that, he secures his spot at WrestleMania! When that show goes off the air, it will be his hand raised as world champion! Wait, JACOB FATU is here?! He and Tama Tonga make their way out, fresh off of brutalizing Braun Strowman last week! They then go to the ring, but Priest does not back down. Samoan Werewolf and Good Bad Guy step into the ring, the fans lose their minds, and Tama fetches a mic for Jacob. “Yeeeeah~! Okay! I see you, wepa! I know who you are. I know what you’ve done. Hell, you accomplished a whole lot more than the rest of these suckers in the back!
“But me and you, man, we lot a way alike. See, we both got out the mud. We both got out the gutter. Hell, we both come from the streets! But the difference between me and you? I was locked down in that box! See, you can get your hair braided all you want, Priest, but don’t you ever get twisted when you come around me! Y’see, I’m off the leash now! I’m a go-getter now! I’m all gas, no brakes now! So if you thought that you was gonna come to the blue brand and make a name for yourself, HELL NAH! UH-UH! I’ma let you know exactly how it’s going down here on this island now. It’s either lay down, or we will beat your ass down!
“Cuz now, the way I see things, it’s me and Tama Tonga running SmackDown right now! Yadada mean?! FATUUU~!” The fans are fired up, but Priest just stares Fatu down. “That’s it? That’s supposed to intimidate me, huh? That’s your best shot?” Priest then calls Fatu a pendejo! Priest says Fatu should know better! In fact, they both from the streets, so why’re they even talking?! The fans like the sound of that, and then Priest SUPERKICKS Tama! Fatu looks at Tama, but then he grins! The fans fire up as the mics drop, the vests come off, and the big men circle each other. Then Jacob roars, and the hands fly!
The fans fire up but Fatu puts Priest in a corner! Only for Priest to TOSS Fatu to the corner, and then he throws more hands! But Tama is up and he’s after Priest! Priest fires back, but now it’s 2v1! The fans boo as Fatu & Tama stomp and HEADBUTT away! Tama goes out to snatch a chair! The fans boo, but here comes LA KNIGHT! The Mega Star still has a score to settle, and he slides into the ring! Tama takes aim but Knight BOOTS the chair into him! Knight then takes the chair, but Fatu PUNCHES it away! But Priest SUPERKICKS Fatu! Knight SMACKS Fatu on the back!
Knight snatches the mic now, and he says, “You said you can lay down or you can get your ass beat down. You just got a beat down, and you can get it again! You all like to use the numbers over and over on everybody . Well I’ve got numbers for ya! I’ve got two you cross-eyed halfwits later tonight against these two! The Street Kings, Damian Priest, and the man the call The Mega Star, with everybody saying L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!!” The fans like the sound of that! Will it take a Priest and a Knight to take down the Samoan Werewolf?
Legado Del Fantasma talks backstage.
Santos Escobar tells Angel y Berto to own the ring. Motor City Machine Guns walk in and Chris Sabin says he knows they don’t really like MCMG, that is no secret. But to be honest, they’re not that fond of Legado. But tonight is a big match, they need to work together. Alex Shelley says they also need to be sure Los Garza is ready to win. Elektra Lopez says never mind MCMG, just look after each other. Escobar says that they have to do what they need to do tonight. Sabin tries to work things out but Santos says no, MCMG already has their tag title opportunity tomorrow. Meanwhile, Santos has to win the Royal Rumble to get an opportunity.
Legado is familia, they are still fighting for what they deserve. They shake hands, and Angel asks if MCMG heard that. Shelley says yeah, but it doesn’t matter. They’ll have Los Garza’s back. Berto says don’t worry about them, they know how to handle their business. But if MCMG beat DIY tomorrow, then Los Garza is coming after them next. Los Garza heads out, does this bode well for the star-studded 8 Man Tag? We’ll see, because that’s NEXT!
8 Man Tag: Motor City Machine Guns & Los Garza VS DIY & Pretty Deadly!
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Tanahashi’s Final Road to New Beginning!
Evil couldn’t end President Ace, but will The House of Torture still take the NEVER Openweight Six Man Championships from him?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Kickoff – Masatora Yasuda VS Daiki Nagai; Time Limit Draw.
- YOSHI-HASHI & Katsuya Murashima VS Ryohei Oiwa & Hartley Jackson; Oiwa & Jackson win.
- 8 Man Tag: El Phantasmo, Jado, Shota Umino & Togi Makabe VS The United Empire; ELP, Jado, Shota & Makabe win.
- Taichi & Taka Michinoku VS SANADA & Taiji Ishimori; Sanada & Taiji win.
- Tomohiro Ishii & Tomoaki Honma VS Tetsuya Naito & Hiromu Takahashi; Naito & Hiromu win.
- Six Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS Bullet Club War Dogs; War Dogs win.
- NEVER Openweight Six Man Tag Team Championships: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano & Boltin Oleg VS The House of Torture; The House of Torture wins and become the new NEVER Openweight Six Man Tag Team Champions.
- Six Man Tag: Hirooki Goto, El Desperado & YOH VS TMDK; TMDK wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
NEVER Openweight Six Man Tag Team Championships: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano & Boltin Oleg VS The House of Torture!
Evil tried to make WrestleKingdom 19 the last time we saw President Ace in this ring but he failed! However, his minions will not stop in trying to ruin the rest of Tanahashi’s last year. Will Ren Narita, Yujiro Takahashi & Sho take these titles back to the House? Or will The Ace, Joker & Rook stand tall?
The House walks out here showing off the belts they literally stole back at New Year Dash, but now the tables have turned! Tanahashi and team attack The House from behind! The fans cheer as The House finally tastes their own medicine! Tanahashi snatches back the belts so that he, Yano & Oleg can stand with them in the ring. The House protests but they’re one to talk. The introductions are skipped, the bell rings, and the brawl is back on as Tanahashi’s team goes back out after The House! Yano whips Sho, but Sho reverses to send Yano into railing! Sho stomps away on Yano, then helps Ren mug Oleg!
Yujiro turns things around on Tanahashi, and then he brings Tanahashi out to No Man’s Land! Sho bends Oleg’s fingers, puts his hand through the railing and pulls! The fans rally for Tanahashi’s team while the ref reprimands The House. Yujiro puts Tanahashi in, then he, Sho & Ren all stomp away! The fans boo, the ref reprimands, but The House all put one out on Tanahashi. Yujiro stands Tanahashi up, then he and Sho double whip Tanahashi corner to corner. Yujiro runs in but Tanahashi dodges! Tanahashi then dropkicks Sho’s leg, then he dropkicks Narita’s leg! The fans fire up and Tanahashi runs at Yujiro.
Yujiro dodges, but Tanahashi ELBOWS him away! Tanahashi goes up to CROSSBODY! The fans fire up again as Tanahashi air guitars. Tag to Yano and he TOSSES Yujiro out! Yano then brings Yujiro out into No Man’s Land, then to the back of the crowd to THROW into some open chairs! The fans cheer as Yano brings out that Great Bash Heel side, but the ref reprimands Yano. Yano tells the ref to leave him alone, and he has a chair! The ref stops Yano from hitting Yujiro! Yano argues with the ref, but now Sho & Ren mug Yano! The ref reprimands them but the mugging continues. Ren leads the ref away so Sho & Yujiro can CHOKE Yano with a chair!
The fans boo while The House also beats up Oleg & Tanahashi. Yujiro drags Yano up and then brings him back to ringside to POST him! Ren brings Oleg around with a headlock and sends him into railing! Then more railing! Then into the crowd! Yujiro uses Yano’s red chair to CHOKE him! The ring count finally starts, but Ren JAMS Oleg up with a chair! The count reaches 10 of 20 and The House returns to the ring. Yano is still down at 15! The fans rally, Yano rises up at 17, and he lurches in at 19! The fans cheer but Yujiro is annoyed. Yujiro drops a leg, then an elbow, then a HEADBUTT! Cover, TWO!
The fans cheer as Yano stays in this, but Ren sends Tanahashi into railing! Yujiro tags Sho, Sho CHOKES Yano with a boot to the neck! The ref counts, Sho stops, then Sho TOSSES Yano out! Sho keeps the ref distracted while Ren JAMS Yano up with a chair! Ren pushes Yano in, Sho covers, TWO! Yano survives and Sho is frustrated. Tag to Ren, he drags Yano up, and Ren whips Yano to ELBOW him down! Cover, TWO! Ren BLASTS Tanahashi off the apron! Ren grins as the ref now keeps Oleg back. Ren CHOKES Yano on the ropes, Sho joins in to CLAW Yano’s eyes, but then the ref counts. Ren lets off and Yano flops down.
Ren drags Yano up, but Yano pulls hair! Ren breaks free, knees low, then runs up. Yano dodges, clinches, and BELLY2BELLY SUPLEXES! The fans fire up, Yano hot tags Oleg! Oleg jumps in and CLOBBERS Ren! Oleg then deadlifts Ren, but Sho attacks! The fans boo, Sho runs, SPEAR bounces off of Oleg! Oleg then deadlifts Sho! Shake, Shake, Shake! But Yujiro CLUBS Oleg! Yujiro & Ren double whip, but Oleg DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLES! The fans fire up and Oleg runs at the corner to SPLASH Ren! Then he scoops and TOSSES Ren! The fans fire up as Oleg then runs to SPLASH! Cover, TWO!
Ren survives but Oleg deadlifts Ren right to the fireman’s carry! Ren fights free, CHOKES Oleg, but Oleg breaks free! Oleg winds up but Ren ducks the chop! Ren CHOKES Oleg, the ref counts, but Oleg CHOKES Ren! The fans cheer, and then Oleg TOSSES Ren to the corner! Tag to Tanahashi and the fans fire up! Oleg and Tanahashi haul Ren up, double whip him corner to corner, then Tanahashi sends Oleg in! Oleg ELBOWS Ren, then Tanahashi SPLASHES! Tanahashi scoops and SLAMS Ren into the drop zone! Oleg goes up, up and VADER BOMBS! Tanahashi goes up to SUNSET SENTON! Cover, Yujiro breaks it!
Oleg CLOBBERS Yujiro for that, then goes out after him. The fans fire up as Tanahashi powers up. Tanahashi runs, but Sho gets a cheap shot in! Ren BOOTS Tanahashi, tags Sho, and Sho BLASTS Yano! Yujiro turns things around on Oleg and now The House double whips President Ace! Sho runs in to forearm SMASH! Yuijro BOOTS! Ren ELBOWS Tanahashi! Ren & Sho snapmare Tanahashi, then hold the legs open! Yujiro shoves the ref aside, then FALLING HEADBUTTS Tanahashi down low! The fans boo but now Sho covers, TWO!! Tanahashi survives and Sho argues with the ref! The fans rally for Tanahashi, but Ren has his repaired pushup bar!
Ren takes aim, Tanahashi dodges, SHOTEI! Sho kicks, Tanahashi blocks to DRAGON SCREW! Yujiro runs up, but gets caught into a TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT! The fans fire up as Tanahashi crawls for his corner! Hot tag to Yano! Yano unties a buckle pad! The fans cheer, Yano whips, but Sho reverses! Yano stops from hitting the buckles, then he dodges Sho to send him into bare buckles! Yano rolls Sho up, TWO!! Sho escapes but Yano hurries to get Sho’s legs! Oleg hops in, CATAPULT into Oleg’s BELLY2BELLY! The fans fire up as Yano then stands Sho up, ONIGO- NO, Sho fights free! Sho dodges, but the ref stops him from hitting a low blow!
The ref and Sho argue, but Yujiro & Ren mug Yano! They double whip Yano, but Yano grabs ropes. Yano then sends Ren into Yujiro to DOUBLE LOW BLOW them! Atomic drop for Sho! Tanahashi runs up, SLINGBLADE! Oleg deadlifts Sho right into a fireman’s carry and DEATH VALLEY DRIVER! But YOSHINOBU KANEMARU is here! The Heel Master gets on the apron, but Young Lions already apprehend him! Yano hauls Sho up, for ONIGOROSHI!! Cover, KANEMARU TOSSES THE YOUNG LION ONTO THE REF! The fans boo but Kanemaru attacks Yano! But then Yano hits him with an atomic drop!
Kanemaru WHISKEY MISTS!? Sho LOW BLOWS Yano!! Sho rolls Yano up, HOUSE OF TORTURE WINS!!
Winners: The House of Torture, by pinfall (NEW NEVER Openweight Six Man Tag Team Champions)
What a travesty! A miscarriage of justice! Evil isn’t even here, but his army of darkness just won the gold! Yano is upset, Tanahashi is disappointed, but Oleg is mad! Oleg storms back in, only for Yujiro to BELT SHOT him down! Yujiro then kicks Oleg out, and shows he’s pretty sore from the low blow. Will these belts help the House feel much, much better?
Six Man Tag: Hirooki Goto, El Desperado & YOH VS TMDK!
The Fierce Warrior won the New Japan Ranbo to earn his shot at the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, so that means he and Zack Sabre Jr. will do battle for the New Beginning! Will the Rogue Luchador & Direct Drive help Goto gain the upper hand? Or will Kosei Fujita & Robbie Eagles help The Mighty Front Man prepare for war?
The teams sort out while all of TMDK’s title belts are put aside. The Japanese Young Punk steps to Despy, so Despy accepts. The fans cheer and the bell rings. Despy and Fujita stare down while the fans rally. Despy has the majority, and the two circle. They feel things out, Despy facelocks but Fujita slips around to waistlock. Despy slips out, moves around, but Fujita stays on him. They go around, break, and the fans cheer. They tie up, Despy wrenches to hammerlock, but Fujita elbows free to hammerlock back. Despy switches, Fujita switches, repeat! They go hammerlock for hammerlock, but then Despy top wristlocks to wrangle FUjita!
The fans cheer, Fujita fights up, but Despy shifts to a cording hold. Fujtia whips but Despy reverses and arm-drags! Fujita comes back, he avoids the arm-drag, and then he CHOPS! Despy is stinging, but Fujita CHOPS him again! And CHOPS him again! The fans cheer, Fujita CHOPS again, but now Despy CHOPS! Fujita CHOPS, Despy ends up in the Mighty corner, and Eagles tags in. Eagles CHOPS, but then Despy CHOPS! Eagles shoves Despy and says he’s bored. He wants Yoh! The fans rally for Yoh, so Despy tags him in. The fans cheer as Yoh and Eagles circle. Wait, Yoh starts up the “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” “OI OI OI!”
Eagles is rather amused, and says not bad. Eagles starts it up for himself, but Yoh sneaks up! Eagles stops the schoolboy and sits on the cover, TWO and Yoh has the sunset flip! TWO, both men stand and point at the other! The fans applaud, then Yoh kicks low. Yoh whips, Eagles reverses to go up and around to arm-drag! Eagles runs in, Yoh sidesteps but Eagles hurdles. Eagles RANAS then WHEEL KICKS! Eagles kips up and the fans cheer. Eagles puts Yoh in a corner, and he says “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” CHOP CHOP CHOP! “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” CHOP CHOP CHOP! “ROBBIE!” CHOP! “ROBBIE!” CHOP! “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” CHOP CHOP CHOP!
The fans cheer while Yoh flounders around. Eagles whips, Goto sneaks a tag, then Goto & Yoh DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE Eagles! They BLAST ZSJ and Fujita, then call to Despy! Despy says no thanks, they can go ahead. “Se~ no!” DRUM BEAT on Eagles’ back! Goto asks if Despy is sure he doesn’t want in, and Despy says it’s fine. Goto CLUBS Eagles, but Eagles fires body shots! Eagles fires a forearm, but Goto knees low! Goto fireman’s carries, but Eagles fights free. Eagles waistlocks, Goto elbows free and runs, only for ZSJ to trip him up! Eagles BLASTS Yoh & Despy off the apron while Fujita basement dropkicks Goto!
ZSJ spins Goto around to be on the apron, then gives him a NECK TWIST! The fans cheer and ZSJ brings Goto out to UPPERCUT him down! ZSJ brings Goto up to UPPERCUT again, then UPPERCUTS him again! Goto stumbles and falls, Eagles CHOPS Yoh, and Fujita CHOPS Despy! ZSJ brings Goto up and wrenches his arm, then wrenches it again. But Goto fires forearms in return! ZSJ UPPERCUTS Goto again, the CHOPS continue by the ramp side, and ZSJ puts Goto in. Eagles tags ZSJ in whiel Fujita and Despy CHOP each other back and forth. ZSJ clamps on a headscissors and he squeezes tight!
Goto endures, reaches out, ROPEBREAK! ZSJ lets go cleanly and brings Goto to the corner. Tag to Fujita and he stomps Goto. Fujita drags Goto up while fans rally, and Fujita wrenches to an ELBOW BREAKER! Fujtia wrenches again, ELBOW BREAKER! And again, ELBOW BREAKER! Fujita wrenches, top wristlocks, and he wrangles Goto to the mat. Fujita STOMPS that arm, then he tags Eagles. The Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions get Goto’s arms while ZSJ steps in to have a leg! Goto endures as TMDK cycles through the armlocks and leglocks! Red Shoes counts but TMDK keeps rotating before he reaches 4!
Then TMDK returns where they started, and Goto endures the DOUBLE STRAIGHT ARMBARS and INDIAN DEATHLOCK! Red Shoes counts, all three men let go at 4! ZSJ stands, he still has the deathlock, and he bridges back! Goto endures, keeps his shoulders up, but ZSJ stands to tag in Eagles. Eagles drags Goto around, then hits a KNEE JAMMER! Tag to Fujita, they drag Goto up, and they double whip him to ropes. They DOUBLE ELBOW Goto down, ZSJ hops in for a NECK TWIST! Goto sits up into a DOUBLE PENALTY KICK! Cover, Despy breaks it! The fans cheer but Red Shoes reprimands.
Despy stands down, but Fujita BLASTS him off the apron! Fujita drags Goto up, wrenches, and whips him to a corner. Fujita runs up to CHOP, then he snapmares to PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans cheer but Fujita coordinates with TMDK. Fujita drags Goto up, and he wants to do the Chaos drum thing? ZSJ isn’t so sure but Eagles is for it. Eagles steps in, but Yoh runs up! Eagles kicks Yoh, and “Se~ no!” Eagles & Fujita DRUM on Yoh! The fans cheer and ZSJ acts like he doesn’t know what’s going on. The fans cheer for ZSJ to join in, but he puts up the X, that’s not for him. Eagles & Fujita DRUM away on Goto!
Goto stands up and grabs Fujita by the face! Eagles CLUBS Goto, he and Fujita double whip, but Goto DOUBLE LARIATS first! The fans fire up while they’re all down! ZSJ storms in and grabs Goto’s leg! ANKLE LOCK! Goto endures, fights around, and rolls through to throw ZSJ! ZSJ comes back to RAM Goto, then he runs, only for Goto to RUN him over! The fans fire up while both men are down! Goto crawls, hot tag to Despy! Despy runs at the corner to ELBOW Fujita! Despy reels Fujita in for a suplex, high and hard! Cover, TWO! Despy fires up and the fans are with him! Fujita underhooks, PINCHE- NO, Fujita fights free!
Fujita swings but Despy blocks the chop! Despy knees low, whips, but Fujita reverses to GAMANGIRI! The fans cheer while both men are down! Fujita roars while he rises up, and he storms back to Despy. Fujita waistlocks, deadlifts Despy, but Despy fights the suplex with elbows! Despy is free, but Fujita runs up to slip around and backslide! Despy rolls through, Fujita KICKS him down! Cover, TWO! The fans rally up and Fujita fires up again. Fujita drags Despy back up, reels him in, and suplexes, but Despy fights that. Despy wrenches, but Fujita ROCKS him! Despy ROCKS Fujita in return!
Fujita and Despy keep the wristlock while they fire forearm after forearm back and forth! The fans rally up as the shots go faster and faster, but then both men wobble! Fujita fires a forearm, then another! Despy ROCKS Fujita in return! Despy runs, Eagles slips in, SOBAT! Fujita UPPERCUTS! Eagles scoops Despy but Yoh makes the save! Eagles kicks Yoh, he and Fujita double whip, but Yoh reverses to crisscross them into each other! FALCON- NO, Eagles slips out, but Yoh switches! Yoh feeds Eagles to Despy’s ELBOW! Yoh reels Eagles back in, FALCON ARROW! The fans fire up but Fujita runs up!
Despy & Yoh double kick, double whip, but Fujita DOUBLE SHOTGUNS! Fujita kips up, the fans fire up, and Fujita whips Despy, but Despy reverses to SPINEBUSTER! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! Fujita and Despy crawl for their corners, hot tags to Goto and ZSJ! The fans fire up as both men run in, Goto LARIATS ZSJ! Goto roars and the fans are with him! Goto fires a flurry of forearms, then whips corner to corner. Goto runs in, MURAMASA! Then SAIDO! Cover, TWO! ZSJ survives and Goto fires up again! Goto fireman’s carries but ZSJ pulls on an arm! Goto powers out and ROCKS ZSJ!
Goto runs, ZSJ wrangles him to a FUJIWARA ARMBAR! Eagles & Fujita BLAST Yoh & Despy off the arm! They have Yoh & Despy stuck on the outside with armlocks while ZSJ has the DISARMER! Yoh breaks free of Eagles and DROPKICKS ZSJ! Eagles returns to SUPERKICK Yoh! Despy is in, Eagles slips around and feeds him to Fujita’s MISSILE DROPKICK! The fans fire up and TMDK drags Goto up. But Goto fires forearms on Eagles & Fujita! They DOUBLE CHOP, then double wrench! MAX- NO, Goto fights free and kicks Fujita! Goto deflects Eagles’ kick to LARIAT! Fujita kicks Goto, runs, but Goto follows! LARIAT!
ZSJ RAMS Goto, whips, but Goto reverses! Fireman’s carry, USHIGOROSHI! The fans fire up while ZSJ clutches his head. Goto hauls ZSJ up, dragon sleepers, but ZSJ drops down! Goto drops onto ZSJ for a cover, TWO!! ZSJ is up, Goto sends him into a corner! RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP, into a GOTO SAN SHIKI!! Cover, TWO!! ZSJ escapes, BOOTS Goto, then runs! DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Neither man falls, so DOUBLE LARIATS collide again! Goto roars, runs, but ZSJ KCIKS the lariat, PELES the other arm, then SWEEPS the legs! Goto falls, but then sits up, into a PENALTY KICK! The fans fire up and ZSJ hurries to drag Goto back up.
ZSJ scoops, ZACK- NO, Goto slips free and has the SLEEPER! Goto sits ZSJ and rolls him, GOTO NI SHIKI!! TWO!! ZSJ has the legs, JAPANESE LEG ROLL CLUTCH, with bridge!! TMDK WINS!!
Winners: TMDK, by pinfall
It was a fast and furious finish of technical holds, but who else but the best technical wrestler in the world would pull it out? Goto is frustrated for getting caught like that, but will he avenge himself in just 12 days?
As for TMDK, Eagles starts off by saying, “G’day, Sendai!” Eagles then pretends to check his watch, and asks, “Rocky doki desu ka? <Where is Rocky?> Zabishii. <How lonely.>” The fans chuckle at Eagles’ fake crying, and Eagles then tells Yoh & Rocky that next month in Osaka, see you then! The fans applaud, and then Eagles offers the mic to Fujita. The fans cheer Fujita on, and Fujita accepts. “That lariat turned me inside out, so I’ll keep this short! I’m beating El Desperado!” The fans cheer that, ready to see Fujita challenge Desperado for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship on Tuesday, February 4th!
And lastly, that brings things to The Front Man. ZSJ takes the mic to say, “People of Sendai, thank you very much!” The fans cheer, but then ZSJ tells “Ko-kun” and “Robbie-chan” to “cut that drumming bit. It was lame.” The fans chuckle again, and ZSJ says 2025 isn’t the Year of the Snake. No, it’s all orange! ZSJ promises that TMDK won’t just paint NJPW orange, but the entire world! “Osaka will be here soon enough. Goto, this is your last chance. Let’s make the most of it.” The fans like the sound of that! ZSJ says they’ll end with this: This year revolves around TMDK! Arigato gozaimashita! The fans are ready, will the New Beginning in Osaka be Mighty?
My Thoughts:
A very good event for NJPW, though “Road to” always indicates more tune-up filler than thriller. Gabe Kidd going after Yota Tsuji and the Global Heavyweight Championship is an interesting development, but that is going to be a great match. The NEVER Openweight Six Man Championship match was really good stuff, and I was only a little surprised that The House of Torture won. Firstly, Tanahashi has to lose those titles at some time, so might as well pull off the Band-Aid now before The New Beginning events. Then this works with the story from Oleg and Josh Barnett where Barnett wants to help Oleg reach that singles title level.
And very good Six Man Tag main event to not only build Goto VS ZSJ but also Desperado VS Fujita. Great win for TMDK, but we have a lot of other Road to New Beginning events to build Goto VS ZSJ. A lot of filler 10 Man Tags are on the schedule, but I probably won’t be bothering with those. Despy VS Fujita will be great, but Fujita and Eagles are already the tag champions, so I don’t see Fujita winning. As for Goto VS ZSJ, ZSJ said it himself that this is very likely Goto’s last chance at ever being the top champion in NJPW, but I don’t see Goto winning. It’ll be an epic battle, but I feel like ZSJ is going to stay on top.
My Score: 8.7/10
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!