There’s gold in the Steel City!

WWE returns to Pittsburgh in a big way! And the World Heavyweight Champion, Seth Rollins, has a big fight on his hands against Shinsuke Nakamura!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Steel Cage Match: Becky Lynch VS Trish Stratus; Becky wins.
• LA Knight VS The Miz, John Cena as special guest referee; Knight wins.
• WWE United States Championship: Rey Mysterio w/ The LWO VS Austin Theory; Rey wins and retains the title.
• Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships Steel City Street Fight: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn VS Finn Balor & Damian Priest; Finn & Priest win and become the new Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions.
• WWE Women’s World Championship: Rhea Ripley VS Raquel Rodriguez; Rhea wins and retains the title.
• WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Rollins wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

It’s the Payback Kickoff Show!

Join Kayla Braxton, Jackie Redmond, Wade Barrett, Booker T & Peter Rosenberg in discussing, analyzing and predicting all the action in Pittsburgh!

Grayson Waller joins the panel.

Jackie brings up how Cody Rhodes will be on tonight’s premium (live event) edition of the Grayson Waller Effect, and asks if he’s the biggest guest Waller’s had so far. Waller says yes, that is a SUPER superstar right there. But how much video are we going to see about Cody? Now, Waller has heard Cody has huge news tonight, and who did he come to? Grayson Waller! Waller can’t wait! Kayla says Waller surely is feeling good, just like last night on SmackDown. Waller agrees, and says his boy, Austin Theory, is gonna ride that wave to become the NEW US Champion. Waller would party with Theory here tonight but Pittsburgh’s “a bit of a hole” so they’ll wait until they leave here.

Kayla brings up social media buzz about Waller has read John Cena’s book. How does he feel about Cena hosting Payback tonight? Waller says it’s great. Cena’s book is so motivating, and it’s maybe 600 words. Get that paycheck, Cena! Impressive. But as Waller said on social media, he’ll teach Cody how to finish the story. Peter commends Waller on buttoning up two buttons on his shirt. Well he didn’t wanna embarrass Peter. Peter’s button popped when he sat down. But his bald head looks great, what shine. Kayla wants Waller’s input on The Miz VS LA Knight, two men Waller’s had history with.

Waller can’t believe they’re arguing this! It’s not a question, his close, personal friend The Miz is gonna win and teach Knight a lesson. Is LA Knight gonna win? NOPE! NOPE! Fans chant “YEAH! YEAH!” but Waller says they’re so stupid here. Miz wins! Well, anything else Waller is excited about tonight? Booker wants to know, he was watching Waller grow up in NXT, how is it different going from an NXT TakeOver even to a WWE PLE? Waller says he appreciates that question. Booker is someone who kept an eye on Waller.

But just look at the people he’s been in the ring with: Edge, a Hall of Famer; John Cena, one of the best ever; and now, Cody Rhodes, arguably the biggest name today. And they’re all coming to Waller cuz they’re legends, had some losses, been away, and wanted to be relevant again. That’s what Waller does for them. If Cody’s news is what Waller heard, then this will be massive! Waller will get back to everyone later. Jackie says yes, he’ll want to get to that scoop, but what is the one question Waller is dying to ask Cody? Oh so many things. But for Cody, Waller will say something nice here, which is rare. Cody is an example of what a superstar should be, both in and out of the ring.

When Cody walks by, he carries himself like a superstar. But Waller won’t do what everyone does and ask him backstage what it takes. No, Waller will learn in the ring, see if Cody can keep up on the mic. Wow, Waller can be nice. Well don’t tell Cody what Waller said here, okay? But Wade Barrett says he’ll try to be a friend here. Waller says he’s got some bad news, that probably won’t happen. Wade says Waller is a ten in the ring, but Cody Rhodes is one of the most dangerous men in the WWE. Cody just conquered Brock Lesnar, and Waller has a history of pushing people’s buttons. If that happens, Waller will regret it.

Waller says just watch past Grayson Waller Effect segments, he gets the best of the best on there, and he finds a way. If Cody punches Waller in the face, maybe that’s what Waller wants. Either way, Waller is taking this and going viral tonight. He might even take Wade’s advice and get on that Australian cricket team. Waller polishes Peter’s head, and Jackie thanks Waller for his time ahead of tonight’s Grayson Waller Effect. Will the Aussie Icon get to the bottom of the American Nightmare’s rumored news?

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Steel City.

“You know that feeling? When something is coming? Something you started, but now you can’t stop? Well, that something is here. Tonight, Payback is currency, and it’s time to pay up. Tonight, get ready to raise some hell! Payback has arrived.”

Steel Cage Match: Becky Lynch VS Trish Stratus!

The Steel City gets a heavy metal opening to the show as The Man looks for big time payback on the selfish WWE Hall of Famer who betrayed her months ago, all so she could hog the spotlight. She’s got all of Becky’s attention tonight, will Trish survive her first steel cage match ever? Or will Becky finally humble her Hall of Fame ego?

Tiffany Stratton is in the crowd, NXT Women’s Championship on her shoulder. She’s talked down on Becky already, is she here to see Becky fail? Trish finally gets in the cage with Becky, the door closes, and the bell rings. Becky stands by the door and glares at Trish, as if to say that’s one way Trish ain’t gonna win. The two step up, Tirsh dodges Becky, and goes for the door! Becky reels her back in, but Trish fights the clinch to shove Becky away! Trish goes up the wall but Becky yanks her down. Trish SLAPS Becky, but Becky just glares at her! Becky fires off forearms, then bumps Trish off buckles! Becky runs Trish into another corner! And then another! And then a third!

Fans fire up as Becky ROCKS Trish with a right! Trish staggers, Becky fires up and eggs Trish on, then catches a kick to a BECKSPLODER! And then another BECKSPLODER! And then a third BECKSPLODER! Fans fire up with Becky as she storms up to Trish. Becky drags Trish up to throw her at the steel, but Trish blocks! Trish tries but Becky blocks! Becky elbows Trish but Trish throws elbows back. Trish throws Becky down by her hair! Trish checks her face, stomps Becky around, then goes to a wall. Trish climbs, but Becky hurries after! Becky drags Trish back down, they fight on the top rope, and then Becky throws Trish down!

But Trish gets up to YANK Becky down! And then Trish THROWS Becky into steel! Fans boo but Trish soaks it all up. Trish stomps Becky around, stands her up, and then THRWOS her into the steel again! Fans rally, Trish stands Becky up, and Becky is again sent into the steel! Trish bends Becky back against the ropes, and pulls hair to add on! The ref can’t do anything but reprimand, and then Trish BOOTS Becky into the steel! Trish digs Becky’s face into the chain links and tells the camera to get a close-up! But Becky fights up to fight back! Becky runs, but into a SPINEBUSTER! Trish shows her strength and covers, TWO!

Trish hurries to go for the door! But Becky rolls Trish up! TWO, and Becky hurries up, but into a LARIAT! Trish covers, TWO! Trish is frustrated, but she drags Becky up to THRWO her into more steel! Fans rally for The Man but Trish traps Becky in the ropes. Trish pulls Becky back and makes her smile with fishhooks, before throwing her into steel! Trish digs Becky’s face into the chain links again! Fans boo but Trish revels in it as she looms over Becky. Trish smacks Becky off the mat, then drags her back up. Trish taunts The Man and smacks her off the mat again! Trish stomps Becky while mocking the fans rallying up.

Becky crawls to ropes but Trish CHOKES her against them! The ref reprimands and Trish lets off, but Becky rises up. So Trish whips, but Becky reverses to send Trish into steel! Becky then drags Trish up, to throw her into more steel! And then a scoop, for a LAWN DART into steel! And then another LAWN DART! And a THIRD! Becky runs to CLOBBER Trish! Cover, TWO! DISARM-HER!! Trish can’t use ropebreaks, so she fights her way around. Trish CLUBS Becky’s back, fights up to her feet and reaches for the door! But Becky slips around, only for Trish to RAM her into steel! Trish then sends Becky into more steel!

Becky runs in, Trish goes Matrix! But Becky drops a leg on Trish’s stomach! Both women are down and fans fire up! Becky and Trish stir, Trish runs in, but Becky blocks to ROCK Trish! Trish ROCKS Becky back, and the forearms fly! Becky SOBATS! Becky runs Trish to RAM her into the steel! Becky gets in the gap with Trish, to dribble her off the steel! But Trish gives it back! They go back and forth with throwing the other into the steel! Becky gets the edge and just thrashes Trish around! Fans are all fired up with Becky now! Becky then springboards, JUMP KICK! Becky goes up the ropes, drags Trish up with her, to then THROW her into steel!

Trish is stuck on the top rope, Becky hits a GUILLOTINE LEG DROP! Cover, TWO!! Trish survives and fans can’t believe it! Becky keeps her cool, a part of her knows a Hall of Famer doesn’t get there without being that tough. Trish sits up, a lump on her head, and Becky adds on with a forearm smash! And a JUMP STOMP! Becky climbs up, but Trish SHOVES her into the steel of the corner! Trish runs in, goes up, STRATUS- NO, Becky blocks Stratusphere, so Trish sits up! They brawl with forearms while sitting up top! Fans fire up as Trish fires a flurry! Trish then climbs up and over Becky, wanting to get to the top!

Becky anchors a foot! Trish kicks with the other and sends Becky away! Becky springs back up, catches up to Trish, and drags her back down! Trish fights out of Electric Chair position, only for Becky to turn this around! RUNNING POWERBOMB!! Cover, TWO!! Trish survives again and now Becky is starting to grow frustrated. Pittsburgh says “This is Awesome!” as Becky storms around. Becky drags Trish up, reels her in, but Trish fights free! So Becky goes for an arm! Trish sends Becky away, kicks her low, and reels her in! Canadian Rack, for a WIDOW’S PEAK! Shoutout to Victoria! Cover, TWO!!

Trish is fuming, but she drags Becky around to dribble her off the mat! Trish headlocks, points to the sky, but Becky powers out to hit a TWIST OF FATE! Shoutout to Lita! Cover, TWO!!! Trish survives her greatest rival’s move, but Becky drags Trish to a drop zone. Becky fires herself up and the fans are with her as she climbs. LEG- NO, Becky has to roll through as Trish moves! Trish gets her for STRATUSFACTION!! Cover, TWO!!! That was so close and Trish is seething! Trish drags Becky up, SMACKS her off the mat again, and then stomps her around. Fans again declare “this is Awesome!” even as Trish throws Becky around.

Trish storms up to a wall and climbs. But Becky hurries to get the feet! Trish slips free, gets to the top, but Becky drags her back down! Trish throws forearms, Becky throws body shots, they brawl up top again! Becky again smacks Trish off that steel! Then clinches! But Trish fights with panic! Trish headlocks, for a SUPER STRATUSFACTION!!! Trish crawls to the cover, TWO!!! Becky survives again and Trish is shocked! Trish stalks Becky, aims from a corner, and climbs. She goes up again, but Becky springs back to life! Becky catches up to Trish, to SMACK her off the top of the cage! They both sit up there and start throwing hands!

Fans are thunderous as these two literally fight on the edge! Trish SMACKS Becky off the top, then shoves her down! Trish starts descending, but Becky hurries up! Becky grabs Trish by her hair!! Becky drags Trish up but Trish throws hands! Becky still drags Trish back over! Trish is stuck in the railing! Becky ROCKS Trish into a Tree of Woe!! Becky doesn’t let Trish off that easy, she drags her right back up, throws some hands, and then SMACKS Trish off the steel! Trish gets her legs free, but Becky uses that to drag Trish into position, for a SUPER DUPER MEGA PLEX!!! Fans are going nuts over that crash landing!

Becky crawls to cover Trish, TWO!??! Trish survives and no one can believe it! Again, “This is Awesome!” but those words don’t even really do this justice! Becky staggers up, goes back to the wall, and now she climbs up! Becky’s reached the top, but Trish is hurrying for the door! Becky realizes that, jumps down and drags Trish back! But ZOEY STARK is here!! She’s trying to drag Trish out of the cage! IT’s a tug-o-war over Trish! Becky has a grip on those legs but Stark has a grip on the arms! Becky wins out!! So Stark SLAMS the door shut on Becky!! Trish rolls Becky up, TWO!! CHIKC- NO, Becky dodges! MANHANDLE SLAM!! Cover, Stark breaks it!!

Fans boo but there’s nothing to stop Stark from helping out! Stark drags Trish’s limp body to the door, but Becky’s in the way! Becky slams the door shut, this has come full circle. Stark says okay, and they fire off fists! Fans fire up while Trish stays back. Stark CLOBBERS Becky and Trish starts climbing! But then Becky MANHANDLE SLAMS Stark!! Becky climbs up to get Trish’s leg! Becky drags Trish back in, SMACKS her off steel, and clinches, for a SUPER MANHANDLE SLAM!!!! Cover, Becky wins!!!

Winner: Becky Lynch, by pinfall

Even with her protege’s help, Trish could NOT stop Becky Lynch! The Big Time Payback is complete, and she has proven herself as THE greatest of all time! Will Becky finally be able to move on and focus on what she really wants: the women’s world title?

As for Trish, Stark helps her up. Fans boo as Trish starts to get upset with Stark. Stark says she tried to help, what more could she have done? Trish SLAPS Stark! Stark doesn’t let Trish leave the cage just yet, but Trish tells her to get out. Stark walks over to the door, and closes the door! Stark says this is how Trish repays her? Trish gets angrier, but Stark scoops Trish for Z360!! She throws the #ThankYouTrish shirt away and storms off! Will Zoey Stark move on and focus on what she wants now?

John Cena heads to the ring!

Pittsburgh fires up for the special guest host of Payback as he runs down the ramp and slides into the ring! Cena gets the mic to say, “Welcome, welcome, welcome! Pittsburgh, welcome to Payback! What a first match! That was awesome!” Fans cheer, and Cena says he’s done a lot of things in his 20 years. He’s done the opener, the main event, he’s been the champion, he’s been the challenger. He’s been a guest, he’s been a fan, a doctor and a prototype. But Cena’s never been a host! He wasn’t gonna pass this up, and so his job as host is to make tonight special.

Cena got to thinking that there is no better way to make tonight special than by being the special guest referee in a match he’s had his eye on for awhile! The match of LA Knight VS The Miz! But speaking of, here comes The Miz! Fans boo as Miz gets the mic, and Miz frowns at Cena. Miz would expect this from LA Knight, but not Cena! Pandering? To this audience? He’s John Cena, the Greatest Of All Time. But as a host, Cena sucks! Fans boo and Cena says hold on. This is his first time, Miz has had a lot of experience, so does Miz have any advice? Yeah! Don’t put yourself as a special guest referee into Miz’s match!

Oh. That was Cena’s one idea. Any other advice? Yeah, when they call you to be a merman in the Barbie movie, say no. Oh, well, okay. Miz still has it. Cena admits, he doesn’t like Miz. But he does respect Miz. And Cena still wants to make tonight special. he’s just asking for help, please give him advice. Miz admits, he has hosting experience from MizTV to WrestleMania. Cena has to be more involved. When Miz as more involved, he wasn’t in just one match, but two matches! Yeah, Cena remembers that! So be more involved. Okay. Miz asks what Cena is wearing. Miz wore a 10 THOUSAND dollar suit! Cena is almost 50 and still looks like a Teletubby!

Okay, point taken. Be more involved, dress the part. Good, good. Miz says yes, take charge! Right, right, okay. Like making himself a guest referee! NO!! But fans chant “YES! YES! YES!” Miz tries the “hand up, mouths go shut” bit, but fans just boo. Miz says Cena doesn’t even have a ref shirt, so… Wait, Cena makes one magically appear from his pocket! Perks of being the host. So Cena really IS the special guest referee for Miz’s match! NO! Yeah. Miz is angry as Cena goes back and forth with him, “NO!” “YEAH!” And here comes THE MEGA STAR! Is Miz going to make it through this with his sanity, let alone his dignity?

LA Knight VS The Miz, John Cena as special guest referee!

Pittsburgh is thunderous for “LA KNIGHT!” already while Miz complains about the entire situation. Miz still gets in the ring, and then fans taunt his “TINY BALLS!” Miz storms out to the steel steps and fans boo. Cena says c’mon, this has to happen. Miz slowly returns into the ring, the bell rings and then Miz bails out! Fans boo again as Miz paces around the outside. Miz says Knight is not on his level and he already dealt with Cena years ago. Knight holds ropes open for Miz but Miz says to hecc with this, and to hecc with Pittsburgh! Miz is going up the ramp! Knight says hold on, and he hurries out after him!

Miz takes a swing, but Knight dodges to ROCK Miz! And ROCK him again! Knight puts Miz in, and then TAKCLES him! The two scrap, Cena watches closely as the two stand up. Miz ELBOWS Knight away, then ROCKS him! Knight ROCKS Miz back, and the haymakers fly! Miz ROCKS Knight, kicks low, but Knight ROCKS him back! Knight whips and CLOBBERS Miz! Knight reels Miz in, HALF HATCH! Miz staggers up, Knight puts him on the top rope. They go to the very top but Miz fights back with body shots! Miz SUPER GOURD BUSTERS! Fans boo while Miz steadies himself. Miz sneers and leaps, AX HANDLE!

Fans boo as Miz glares and stomps Knight around. Miz digs his boots in but Cena reprimand. Miz lets off and Knight sputters. Miz says he’s watching Cena and stalks Knight to ropes. Miz CHOPS Knight, tells fans to shut up, but the fans boo. Miz whips Knight, Knight reverses but Miz ducks, only to run into a POWERSLAM! Knight throws down hands! Knight hauls Miz up to suplex, but Miz slips free! Full nelson, but Knight slips free! Miz powers out of the cravat to bail out of the ring. Fans boo but Knight waits on Miz. Miz storms back up but Knight WRECKS him with a dropkick! Fans fire up as Knight goes out, to RAM Miz into steel steps!

Knight brings Miz around, and SMACKS him off the desk! And again! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Cena counts, Knight stops at 5 of 10 to get back in the ring. Knight says “YEAH!” to Cena and goes back out. But Miz YANKS Knight into the desk! Both men are down and Cena goes out to check them. Miz is alright, he smirks as he sits back up. Knight stirs, Miz drags him up, but fans still cheer Knight. Miz mocks the “YEAH!” as he dribbles Knight off the barrier again and again! Miz slides into the ring to taunt Cena but fans boo. Miz goes back out, sets up and runs in, but Knight TOSSES Miz into the timekeeper’s area!

Fans fire up as Knight drags Miz up to TOSS back over! Knight then clears out some space, gets a running start, and he LEAPS over to CLOBBER Miz! Fans fire up with Knight and Cena goes out to tell them to get this in the ring. Knight puts Miz in the ring, but Miz throat chops him! Cena reprimands but Miz stomps Knight and fires off the It Kicks! Miz digs his boots in, Cena counts, and has to drag Miz away to stop him! Miz and Cena argue, but then Knight LARIATS Miz! Fans fire up as Knight stomps a mudhole into Miz! Cena starts  a count, then he drags Knight away. Knight jukes to stomp Miz more!

Cena counts again, and loudly, but he still has to back Knight off. Knight argues with Cena now, but Cena is being fair to both me. Miz CLOBBERS Knight now! Miz stomps Knight at the ropes, soaks up the heat, and then CHOKES Knight on the ropes! Cena reprimands, Miz lets off at 4, and Cena says good. More of that please. Miz stands Knight up but Knight shoves him and BOOTS him! Knight goes up but Miz kicks the legs out! DRAPING CODE BREAKER! Cover, TWO!! Miz is annoyed but Cena’s count was fair. Miz looms over Knight, clamps on with a fishhook then a chinlock. Knight endures and fans rally up.

Cena checks Knight, and Knight fights up to his feet! Knight reaches out, fans fire up, and Knight throws body shots! Knight whips Miz to a corner, runs in, but Miz puts him on the apron! Miz then slides out to YANK Knight down! Miz spells it out, “M I Z! YEAH~!” Miz drags Knight up, and sends him back into the ring. Miz mocks the fans as they boo, and then Miz stalks up to Knight. Miz fires off IT KICKS! Knight flounders but sits up, so Miz KICKS him again! And again! Knight staggers up to his feet, Miz winds up, but Knight ducks the roundhouse! BIG back suplex! Both men are down and fans fire up!

Cena checks both men, Knight crawls his way over, then pushes up. Miz stirs, fans rally for Knight, and Knight manages to stand up first. Miz runs in but Knight fires off haymakers! Knight DECKS Miz, whips him to a corner, then hits a JUMPING NECKBREAKER! Fans fire up as Knight climbs up, to FLYING BULLDOG! Knight watches Miz rise, and runs in to SLIDING BOOT! Cover, TWO! Miz is still in this but Knight keeps his cool. Knight stomps Miz in the corner, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Cena counts, Knight lets off at 3 to run corner to corner, KNEE WASH! Miz flounders around and fans fire up again.

Knight brings Miz up, fireman’s carries, but Miz slips free to full nelson! Knight RAMS Miz into the corner, Miz holds on, so Knight RAMS him in again! Miz sunset flips! Knight rolls through but Miz ducks the boot to kick a leg out! BASEMENT DDT! Miz rolls through to BASEMENT DDT again! Cover, TWO!! Miz is upset that Knight survives, and fans boo as Miz calls his shot. Miz full nelsons, but Knight drops down! Victory roll, TWO! Miz escapes, Knight runs in but only gets buckles! Miz almost swaggers past Cena as he goes to the other corner. Miz runs back in, but he only gets buckles! Knight hits a DRAPING SIDEWINDER! Cover, TWO!!

Knight is annoyed that Miz is still in this. Knight stalks Miz to ropes, gets a foot but Miz has the ropes. Miz boots Knight away, knight returns, into a JAWBREAKER! Miz storms up, into a scoop! Miz slips free, O’Conner Roll, with the rope! Cena sees that and says NOPE! He KICKS Miz’s arm, reprimands him, but Miz says Cena can’t touch him. Oh yes he can! He’s the ref here! Miz always takes the low road. Knight runs up, Miz fights the cravat and has the full nelson! Knight arm-drags free and Miz almost runs into Cena! Knight runs in, Miz dodges, and Knight almost runs into Cena! SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!! Cover, TWO?!?!

Miz cannot believe Knight survived his best shot! Cena assures us his count was fair, but that doesn’t make Miz any less angry. Miz decides to parody Cena! And not for the first time, y’know. Miz says you can’t see me, but Knight kips up, scoops and SLAMS him! Fans fire up and spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BIG elbow drop! Knight then gets Miz for the cravat, B F T!! Cover, Knight wins!!

Winner: LA Knight, by pinfall

Whose game is it? With everybody saying L A KNIGHT, YEAH!! Miz couldn’t get his ego and his grudges out of the way, that is why he lost! Will Miz ever live down losing to the man he called the flavor of the month? Will Knight continue to prove to the world that he IS the Mega Star? As for Cena, he throws off his ref shirt so he and Knight can stare down. Knight says he doesn’t mind going around with him. Cena offers a handshake in respect, Knight says Cena almost cost him that one out there. Even so, Knight shakes Cena’s hand and Cena raises Knight’s hand in victory! Is this Cena’s seal of approval on Knight’s future?

WWE United States Championship: Rey Mysterio w/ The LWO VS Austin Theory!

When Santos Escobar went down with a bad leg, all Theory’s doing, the King of Lucha Libre stepped up and took this title for the LWO! Will Rey also hold onto it? Or will Theory once again be The Now of the WWE?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and Steel City sees it’s first piece of gold tonight!

The bell rings and Theory RAMS Rey right into a corner! Theory RAMS into the corner, fires off hands, then stalks Rey around. Theory whips, Rey slides under, and then Rey kicks Theory from below. Theory storms up but into another kick! Rey runs up, Theory kicks low and whips again. Theory runs in, only gets buckles, and then Rey fires hands! Fans count along and Rey gets all the way to TEN! Rey then brings Theory around, whips, but Theory reverses. Rey goes up but Theory catches him! Rey still slips free, waistlocks, but Theory runs to HOTSHOT Rey with the rope! Theory then LARIATS Rey down!

Fans boo while Theory seethes. Theory looms over Rey, mocks Rey’s posing, and then whips Rey to a corner. Theory runs in to clothesline, goes up and over, throws Rey down, and he slingshot STOMPS! Then deadlift suplexes! Cover, TWO! Theory pushes Rey down, talks trash, and gets Rey up for another suplex! Theory grins but fans boo, and Theory says that’s two! He wants three, and mocks Latino Heat. Fans boo but Theory gets Rey’s wrists again. But Rey turns suplex into a cradle! TWO, and Theory CLOBBERS Rey! Cover, TWO! Theory clamps on with a chinlock, and he SWINGS Rey around before a SLAM! Cover, TWO!

Theory has the chinlock back on and he grinds Rey back down. Rey endures, fans rally up, and Rey fights up. Rey throws elbows, but Theory throat chops him! Theory then CHOKES Rey on the ropes! The ref counts, Theory talks trash but he still lets off at 4. Fans boo even harder, but Theory drags Rey up to ROCK him with a haymaker. Rey staggers, Theory brings him around and whips him hard into buckles! Rey falls back, Theory mocks the champ, and then throws down hands. Theory says Rey ain’t nothing, then he soaks up the heat. Theory drags Rey up, puts him on the top rope backwards, and then climbs up behind Rey.

Theory CLUBS away on Rey, tells the ref to leave him alone but the ref says Theory has to listen to him. Theory climbs up again, and he tries to take the mask off! Fans boo, the ref reprimands, and Rey holds on! Rey throws elbows! Theory drops back a bit, Rey fixes his mask, and then throws more elbows! Theory keeps trying but Rey ELBOWS him down! Rey QUEBRADA MOONSAULTS! Direct hit and down goes Theory! Fans fire up as Rey and Theory stir. Theory goes to ropes but Rey fires off on him! Rey ROCKS and KICKS and whips, but Theory blocks to reverse. Rey ducks ‘n ‘dodges to tilt-o-whirl RANA!

Theory tumbles out of the ring, fans fire up as Rey builds speed, and Rey SLIDES, to TORNADO DDT at the ramp! Fans fire up even more as Rey fetches Theory and puts him in the ring. Rey climbs a corner, leaps, SEATED SENTON! Cover, TWO! Theory is still in this but Rey rallies the fans. Rey then brings Theory around, but Theory shoves him away. Rey KCIKS Theory, shoves him, runs, springboards and tilt-o-whirl RANA again! Theory staggers up, into a drop toehold! Theory is on the ropes, Rey dials it up, but Theory ducks it! Theory runs up, into an elbow! Rey springboards, into a torture rack! TOWER HACKER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!!

Theory is furious, but Rey wouldn’t be a Hall of Famer if he wasn’t this level of tough. Theory still calls his shot, but the fans boo. Theory stalks Rey to ropes, drags him up and fireman’s carries, A-TOWN- NO!! Rey slips out to ENZIGURI! Theory runs up, but Rey puts him on the apron! Theory RAMS into Rey, slingshots and somersaults to SHOTGUN! Rey rebounds to BASEMENT DROPKICK! Fans fire up while both men are down again! Rey and Theory stir, crawl around, and Theory sits up first. Theory grabs Rey by his mask, throws hands, but Rey kicks back! And forearms back! Theory ROCKS Rey, Rey KICKS Theory!

Rey fires off shots, Theory knees low, then CLUBS Rey down! Theory whips, Rey reverses to wheelbarrow and put Theory on ropes! Dial it up, 619!! Theory is down, DROP THE DIME onto knees!! Theory scoops Rey, brings him up to the fireman’s carry, A- VICTORY ROLL! REY WINS!!

Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall (still WWE United States Champion)

Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat, Rey wins and now celebrates with The LWO! The Now is still The Former, and the King of Lucha Libre is still the now! Will Theory have to go back to the drawing board if he wants to get this title back? Or will ATL still be less than 619?

Backstage interview with Becky Lynch.

Cathy Kelley is with The Man and says that now she’s finally done with Trish, what is next? But before Becky can say anything, in walks Tiffany Stratton. The NXT Women’s Champion congratulates Becky on the win, but feels they got off on the wrong foot just because Tiff said she plans to be the greatest NXT Women’s Champion of all time then name-dropping Charlotte, Asuka, Bayley and Becky. Because Tiff totally forgot that Becky was never NXT Women’s Champion. So this is a formal apology, woman to woman, for unfairly calling her what she wasn’t. Becky appreciates Tiff “crawling out of your Mattel box” to tell her that.

But Tiff should focus on her title defense. And maybe Becky will see her soon. Okay then. Tootles. Tiff heads out, but is she getting ahead of herself with Kiana James on the horizon?

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships Steel City Street Fight: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn VS Finn Balor & Damian Priest!

The Prizefighter & Great Liberator have gone back and forth with The Judgment Day for months now, but it all comes to a head here! With nothing holding them back, will they use anything and everything they can get a hold of to put down The Prince & The Punisher? Or is this the night all parts of The Judgment Day hold gold?

The introductions are made, the tag titles are raised, and we see just how brutal things get in Pittsburgh!

The bell rings and the brawl is on! Kevin and Priest, Finn and Sami, and fans fire up as the champs get the edge! Kevin TOSSES Priest but Priest drags him out! Sami TOSSES Finn, goes out to throw more hands, but Priest ROCKS Kevin! Kevin ROCKS Priest! They go up the ramp, Kevin CHOPS Priest, and Sami has Finn against barriers. Priest ROCKS and CLUBS Kevin but Kevin hits back! Finn turns things around on Sami, Kevin ROCKS Priest, and Sami turns things back around to send Finn into barriers! Sami puts Finn in the ring and he looks under the ring! Fans want tables but Sami has chairs!

Sami throws in three chairs, but Finn bails out the other side. Sami hurries over to that side, but gets a KENDO STICK for it! Finn then looks under the ring, and he brings out so many more kendo sticks! And a bucket? With a Terrible Towel in it? Finn swings it around, but then throws it down and STOMPS it! The fans boo him harder just for that! Kevin CLOBBERS Finn and fans cheer! Kevin SMACKS Finn off the desk, dribbles him, then SMACKS him with a kendo stick! But Priest CLOBBERS Kevin from behind! Priest ROCKS Kevin with a right, he and Finn mug Kevin, but Sami builds speed to FLY! Direct hit and down goes everyone!

Fans are thunderous and Sami is all fired up! Kevin stands up, he and Sami storm around and they look under the ring. They bring out some trash cans! Fans fire up as they bring those over, and the SMACK Priest! And they SMACK Finn! Another for Priest! And another for Priest! And another still! The cans are put in the ring, Kevin rips off his shirt to reveal he’s a Terry Funk fan! Kevin has the can, Sami has some kendo sticks, and they put the can over Finn! They start beating the can with the sticks! The Pittsburgh Pirates might wanna recruit these two with those homers! Then they DOUBLE SMACK Finn! It is GONE!

Fans are thunderous as Sami & Kevin coordinate. Kevin goes out, Sami follows, and they wanna hear the fans. The fans get loud, and here comes as TABLE! Fans get what they want after all as Sami & Kevin set that table up ringside. The champs go find Priest, Sami holds him up, but Priest BOOTS Kevin away before another can can smash him! Priest then ROCKS Sami, UPPERCUTS Kevin, and takes that can to SMASH it on Sami! And CHUCK it into Kevin! Priest DECKS Kevin onto the desk! Kevin hits back, JABS Priest, but Priest kicks back. Finn has a chair and he JAMS Sami with it! The Judgment Day then coordinate and go after Kevin in the ring.

Finn JAMS Kevin with the chair, and Priest has one of his own! Priest JAMS Kevin, then soaks up the heat. Finn takes the trash can, Priest stands Kevin up, TRASH CAN SMASH! Sami returns but he gets mugged by the Judgment Day! Fans boo as Finn & Priest stomp away in the corner! Finn soaks up the heat and Priest keeps Kevin down. Priest then looks around on the outside while Finn stomps Sami out of the ring. Priest adds more chairs to things, and Finn has Sami with knuckles in the eyebrow! Finn ELBOWS Sami in the head! Priest adds more chairs, this is itself a Funk shoutout. Finn mugs Sami right on the desk!

Fans boo but Priest has stacked some chairs. Priest swings, Kevin dodges and he fires off on Priest! Kevin stomps away on Priest, fans fire up, and Kevin just keeps going! Kevin SMACKS Priest with a chair! Finn JAMS Kevin with a chair, then SMACKS him! Sami returns and runs up to JAM Finn with a chair! Sami SMACKS Finn on the back! And SMACKS him again! Finn tumbles out, fans fire up, and now the Judgment Day is running away! Kevin & Sami pursue in the crowd! Fans fire up as the brawling gets even closer! Sami SMACKS Finn off a road case! But DOMINIK MYSTERIO attacks!

Fans boo as now Dirty Dom is the third man for his guys! Priest TOSSES Kevin and Dom & Finn TOSS Sami over the barriers! Fans boo but Judgment Day soaks it up. But now they discuss how to finish this off. Fans chant “DOM YOU SUCK!” But wait! Kevin, bloodied as he is, rises, as does Sami! And they’re in Pittsburgh Penguins gear!! Fans are thunderous as this turns into a real hockey fight! They use the hockey sticks to JAM and SMACK everyone! Fans are loving it as Sami clacks the stick on the stage! Dom snatches a stick from Kevin, but that only makes things worse! Gloves off, HERE’S THE HOCKEY SCRUM!

Fans fire up as Dom gets mugged and sent off running to Mami! Finn hobbles to the ring but Kevin JAMS him! And then he JAMS and SMACKS Priest! Sami adds on, then puts Finn in the ring. Sami hurries in and moves the chair pile around. Sami brings Finn up but Finn blocks the lift! Finn ELBOWS away on Sami, ELBOWS Sami away, and Priest grabs him! Finn grins, has a chair, but Sami BOOTS him him away! Kevin YANKS Priest down, RAMS him into steps, and Sami hits a FULL METAL BLUE THUNDER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!!! Finn survives, Kevin wipes his crimson mask away, and he rejoins Sami.

“This is Awesome!” as Sami & Kevin pick up some chairs. They arrange those in a nice little square, but Priest returns! Priest JAMS Sami with the hockey stick! And then one for Kevin! Priest BOOTS Kevin, then drags Sami up! BROKEN ARROW onto the chairs!! Sami writhes, Priest covers, Kevin breaks it with a chair! It kinda got Sami, too, though… Priest drags Sami up, tosses him out, and Finn stomps Kevin out of the ring. Kevin eggs Finn on, but Priest chicken wings! Finn WRECKS Kevin with a dropkick! But Kevin just fires off fists! Priest TOSSES Kevin over the desk, and Kevin even hits barriers!

Priest SMACKS Kevin with a trash can! Finn storms in past Corey Graves, drags Kevin up and clotheslines him over the barriers! Fans get closer to the action yet again as the Judgment Day storm after Kevin. They mug Kevin, keep him going towards the back, and even into the cameraman! Kevin kicks back, throws Finn into Priest and just fires wild shots! Priest CLOBBERS Kevin, but Sami’s back! Sami fires off on Priest! Fans are thunderous as they end up by the kickoff show set! Sami RAMS a stool into Priest and fires off hands! Kevin brings Finn along, but Finn knees him low! Sami SMACKS Sami off the Plexiglas desk!

Sami gets on said desk and fans go wild! Sami CANNONBALLS to take out the Judgment Day! Pittsburgh is thunderous for Sami but Dom returns! Dom CLOBBERS Sami, stomps him around, but Kevin fires off fists! Kevin brings Dom around to SMACK into road cases! Dom falls over, Kevin brings a spare table around, and then brings Dom around. Kevin RAMS Dom into railing and then lines up a shot. Kevin DECKS Dom onto the table, rains down some more shots, then climbs up to the upper level! Fans are going wild as Kevin hops up onto the safety railing! Not so safe right now as Kevin howls for a SUPER SWANTON BOMB through the table!!!

Fans lose their minds while Kevin clutches an arm and Dom clutches his ribs! That move broke the table but might’ve broken both men at the same time! “This is Awesome!” as Kevin crawls from the wreckage. Sami and Finn are in the ring, Finn runs in at Sami but into a CORNER EXPLODER! Sami takes aim, runs in, but into a TRASH CAN!! Priest hits the target, Finn covers, TWO!! Finn shouts to Priest to get in so they can finish this! Finn wants a combo move to end this, and Priest likes it. Priest brings down the straps, drags Sami up, and Finn climbs up. Crucifix lift, but Sami flips free to trip Finn!

Finn tumbles down, Sami ELBOWS Priest away! CORNER EXPLODER for Priest!! Fans fire up as Sami runs in at Finn to BLAST him off the apron, and through the table!! Fans are thunderous, Sami runs in at Priest, but Priest choke grips! Kevin returns! STUNNER!!! Priest staggers to the corner, Sami takes aim! HELLUVA KICK!!! Cover, JD MCDONAGH drags Sami out!!! And POSTS him!! The Irish Ace just saved The Judgment Day, but Kevin CLOBBERS JD! Kevin fires off on JD, reels him in, POP-UP POWERBOMB on the desk!! The desk doesn’t break but JD might just have! Fans rally for Kevin as he checks on Sami.

BUT RHEA RIPLEY SPEARS KEVIN THROUGH THE BARRIERS!!! The entire Judgment Day has gotten involved in this match! Sami and Finn both crawl into the ring, flounder about, and fans rally up. Sami and Finn manage to stand, but Finn hits a SLINGBLADE first! Finn aims, runs in, and he SHOTGUNS Sami into buckles! Sami is down, Finn goes up, and Pittsburgh boos the COUP DE G- NO, Sami dodges! To CORNER EXPLODER!! Sami takes aim again, he throws off his shirt, and he runs in to HELLUVA KIIIICK!!!! Cover, DOM CLOBBERS SAMI WITH THE BRIEFCASE!!! Finn covers now, JUDGMENT DAY WINS!!!

Winners: Finn Balor & Damian Priest (NEW Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions)

Rhea laughs victoriously! She put the ultimatum in on Monday, and the team came together to take these titles! Finn & Priest stand up, holding the belts high over head, even as Pittsburgh rains down boos. Will The Judgment Day now run Raw, NXT AND SmackDown?

WWE continues to fight pediatric cancer.

It’s been nearly ten years, and they thank all those who have donated and given their support to both Connor’s Cure and The V Foundation. But WWE still needs you to be there so we can #TagInACure and stomp cancer once and for all! Top fundraisers could win a chance to meet superstars like Cody Rhodes and Bianca Belair, so keep up the fight!

It’s a Premium Live Event edition of the Grayson Waller Effect!

The Moment Maker, the Aussie Icon, the Dynamite from Down Under is already on set in the ring, and fans boo. Waller welcomes us to what could be the greatest GWE of all time. It is very fitting it is taking place here in Pittsburgh, as it and his guest have so much in common. Waller’s seen Pittsburgh’s reading levels, and neither can finish a story! Waller could rip on this city the whole night, but let’s get to business. His guest is the American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes! Fans fire up as Cody makes his entrance, and they of course sing along, “WHOA OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, and then joins Waller in the ring.

Cody picks up a mic as he sits at the desk with Waller, and smiles as the fans chant his name. Cody says, “So… Pittsburgh…! Wh-” Waller cuts him off, saying they’re not doing that tonight! Fans boo, but Waller says he is just being honest. No one cares what Pittsburg wants to talk about. This is the GWE, and all anyone cares about is what Waller wants to talk about. Fans boo but Waller says it must be hard seeing someone this handsome for once. But what Waller wants to talk about is Cody’s “big announcement.” Waller’s heard the whispers, the rumblings, and for Cody personally, what a roller coaster of a year! So many ups! And so many downs.

But it’s okay, Waller appreciates Cody begging to be on the show tonight, in desperate need of the Waller rub. This could be “the beginning of something huge for you, kid.” Cody says fine little speech. And he knows Waller is a newly minted graduate from hip toss class, and has done some school sessions, so he probably knows about shows like this, from the Flower Shop to the Barber Shop to Piper’s Pit, to Cody’s personal favorite of Flair for the Gold. Even MizTV, and now the Grayson Waller Effect. So Waller understands the precedent that has been set. What’s Waller gonna do? Say some mean stuff to him? Probably.

Cody’s sure Waller will try to get under his skin, Cody takes his suit and tie off, they fight, knock over these Hooter’s trees, and then Cody hits a Cross Rhodes. Is that what the fans wanna see? “YES!” NO! Waller says that’s not happening, he will not fight in front of his lovely trees. Fans chant “Hooter Trees! Hooter Trees!” Cody says okay, let’s subvert expectations here. Cody asked to be on Waller’s show, for this massive platform, for the “rub,” and thanks for that. So in turn, Cody will give Waller something. Cody will give Waller that big scoop. Waller watches Raw, right? Every Monday.

And NXT? Of course! Cody shouts out Carmelo Hayes. He don’t miss. Does Waller watch SmackDown? Well, he IS the biggest star on the show, so he watches his stuff. Oh, okay, well, SmackDown is intriguing, wouldn’t he say? In fact, Cody saw something that happened on SmackDown just a few weeks ago, “A wrong that I felt needed to be righted.” Oh? So whatever political stroke Cody has, chips he had, he cashed those in, and he hopes this isn’t a decision that he will regret. But ladies and gentlemen, please welcome your newest member of the Monday Night Raw roster, MAIN EVENT JEY USO!!!

Fans go wild as Cody brings out Jey! Jey remixes Day One Ish in his new theme, cuz it’s all him now, Uce! Fans fire up as Jey makes his way to the ring, and Cody lets him be the guest now! Jey slaps a Grayson Waller Effect sign out of the way to get on the corner and hype the fans up even more! Waller is speechless himself, but he says okay, welcome back, Jey. He was gone like two weeks! But what a huge scoop! First Cody, and now the newest Raw superstar, Main Event Jey Uso! Waller wishes he had something prepared. Well, how does Jey feel being on Raw now? Jey gets a mic but Waller keeps talking.

See, Jey’s been a twin his whole life, he had the Bloodline. Fans chant “UCEY! UCEY!” Yeah, he is Ucey! And as successful as he has been in a tag team, as an individual, Jey has achieved… “Absolutely nothing.” Fans boo but Waller asks what, Cody comes out here, says nice things, and Jey thinks he’s gonna be a big deal now? If anyone is in desperate need of the Waller Rub, it is- SUPERKICK!! Jey takes down Waller in one shot!! Enough said! Will Jey stir things up on Raw? Will he end up overtaking even Cody in the rankings?

WWE Women’s World Championship: Rhea Ripley VS Raquel Rodriguez!

We just saw Mami help her boys beat Kevin & Sami take the tag titles, and now she has to defend her title against an old rival. These two went back and forth during their days together in NXT, but will Rhea look to eradicate Raquel? Or will Big Mami Cool ruin the Judgment Day’s night?

The introductions are made, the title is raised, and we see who is the Top Mami on Monday Night Raw!

The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two stare down. Rhea grins and then they tie up. They go around, Raquel powers Rhea back, but Rhea puts Raquel in the corner. Raquel powers her way bac out and shoves Rhea away! Fans cheer as Rhea looks surprised. Rhea steps up, shoves Raquel, and talks trash. But Raquel shoves back! Rhea headlocks, thrashes the hold, but Raquel powers up. Rhea holds on and grinds Raquel down. Rhea taunts Raquel with what she did to Liv, but Raquel powers up! Raquel gets free, they RAM shoulders, and fans fire up as neither falls! Raquel even brushes herself off.

Rhea says okay, and dares Raquel to run. Raquel does run, RAMS Rhea again, and Rhea staggers back. Fans cheer, Rhea dusts herself off, and they get forehead to forehead! They push, Raquel dodges but Rhea grabs hair! Raquel gets Rhea’s arm! Rhea wants Raquel to hold on, but Raquel fireman’s carries! Rhea slips free, shoves, dodges, but Raquel dodges and redirects to run Rhea over! Rhea bails out and fans fire up! Raquel waits but Rhea tells the ref to give her a second. But then Raquel drags Rhea up to the apron! Rhea HOTSHOTS Raquel, runs in, but Raquel runs her over again! Fans fire up as Raquel fires off in the corner!

The ref counts, Raquel whips Rhea but Rhea reverses to kick low. Rhea snarls, whips but Raquel blocks! Raquel shakes her head, and still blocks the whip! Rhea short arm LARIATS, but Raquel stays up! “Is that all you got?” Rhea throws another LARIAT, but Raquel eggs her on! Rhea says okay, and LARIATS again! Raquel swings, Rhea ducks but the SOUTHPAW finds her! Raquel hauls Rhea up, scoops and SLAMS her! Raquel scoops again, but Rhea slips free to kick Raquel’s legs out! Rhea gets a leg but Raquel boots her away! Rhea rebounds to DROPKICK! Rhea rains down fists! Rhea KICKS Raquel in the side!

Rhea blows snot on Raquel, drags her up and RAMS her into the corner! Rhea CHOKES Raquel against buckles, the ref counts and Rhea lets off. Rhea taunts Raquel about Liv again, then RAMS into Raquel! And again! And again! The ref counts, Rhea lets off and “apologizes.” Rhea then drags Raquel up, CLUBS her down, and fans rally. Rhea flexes, fans cheer, and then Rhea HIP DROPS Raquel! Rhea SLAPS Raquel around, HIP DROPS her again, then sits her up. “I thought you were doing this for Liv.” Raquel throws elbows, but Rhea HIP DROPS again! Cover, TWO! Rhea pushes Raquel around and then paces around.

Rhea stomps Raquel’s legs, has Raquel in a corner, then snapmares her down to KICK her in the back! Raquel writhes, but Rhea wraps her up in a seated abdominal stretch! Rhea clamps a claw into Raquel’s ribs, then CLUBS away! Raquel endures, fans rally, and Raquel fights up! Raquel tries to hip toss but Rhea blocks to cravat and throw knees! Rhea reels Raquel in, GUILLOTINE! Rhea tells Raquel to just stay down, but Raquel TOSSES Rhea away! Fans fire up, Raquel staggers up, and she storms over to Rhea at the ropes. But Rhea YANKS Raquel into ropes! Then she kicks the rope to jam Raquel up!

Rhea stomps Raquel again and again, then tells fans to shut up with their chants. Rhea stalks Raquel, brings her up, but Raquel throws body shots! Raquel shoves Rhea but Rhea rebounds to DROPKICK again! Rhea CLUBS away on Raquel in frustration! Rhea then stops to grin as she looms over Raquel. Rhea wipes her bloody nose, then CHOPS Raquel! Rhea CLUBS Raquel, and taunts her again. Rhea says no one makes her bleed her own blood! Raquel p ushes Rhea but Rhea choke grips Raquel! Raquel choke grips Rhea! Fans fire up and Rhea swings, but Raquel blocks to CLOBBER Rhea! And again! And again!

Rhea ducks the Southpaw but a BLINDSIDE RIGHT gets her! Raquel scoops Rhea to FALL AWAY SLAM! Fans fire up as Raquel aims. Raquel runs in at the corner to SPLASH! Rhea falls, Raquel goes up! But Rhea kicks her legs out! Rhea has Raquel stuck and fires off kicks to the back! Rhea throws Raquel down, then traps a leg int he corner! Rhea stomps away on Raquel but the ref counts! Rhea lets off to go out to the apron. Fans fire up as Rhea climbs the corner. Rhea drags Raquel up to join her, and she throws down headbutts! Raquel falls back down, Rhea adjusts, but Raquel kicks Rhea’s legs out!

Rhea is stuck up top now, and Raquel is free to CLUB her! And then deadlift suplex, with a stall! Then the SLAM! Both women are down and fans fire up again! Rhea is in the drop zone, Raquel goes up, TWISTING VADER! Cover, TWO!! Rhea survives but Raquel keeps her cool. Raquel scoops, has a leg, but Rhea fights free! Rhea waistlocks but Raquel elbows free! Raquel runs up, but into the body scissors and HEADBUTT! Atomic FACEBUSTER, then a SLIDING KNEE! Cover, TWO!! Rhea is growing frustrated with Raquel’s toughness. Rhea dribbles Raquel’s face off the mat! The ref reprimands but Rhea gets upset.

Fans rally and duel, Rhea says she’ll end this now. Pump handle and RIP- NO, Raquel fights free to GOURD BUSTER! Then she reels Rhea back in, gets her up, ALLEY OOP into the ropes! Rhea staggers, Raquel runs to LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Raquel grows a little frustrated but she drags Rhea back up. Raquel RAMS Rhea into the corner! And again! And again! The ref reprimands and counts, Raquel puts Rhea up top. Raquel CLUBS Rhea, climbs up, but Rhea throws headbutts! Raquel staggers, Rhea stumbles but lands on the apron. Rhea runs in to CHOP BLOCK the bad leg!

Rhea has a wild look in her eye as she has a target! Rhea gets the legs, for the PRISM TRAP!! Raquel endures, but she’s so tall, she can handstand from that position! Rhea CLUBS the leg, but Raquel drags Rhea down to a cover! TWO!! Rhea and Raquel stagger up, Rhea runs in, but Raquel sends her into the POST! Raquel scoops, to POWERSLAM! Both women are down again and fans rally back up! Raquel sits up, slaps her leg into working, and she glares at Rhea. Rhea glares back, they both stand, and fans rally up. Rhea SLAPS Raquel but Raquel SLAPS back! And now forearms and haymakers start flying!

Fans fire up as Raquel BOOTS Rhea! Rhea tumbles out of the ring! Raquel hurries out after Rhea, but Rhea SWEEPS the leg! Raquel falls on the apron and then to the floor! Rhea huffs ‘n’ puffs and lines up a shot. Rhea runs in, into a BOOT! Raquel runs up to bring Rhea in, POST BOMB! And then BARRIER BOMB!! Raquel refreshes the ring count and goes back for more! Raquel hauls Rhea up, scoops her, and brings her around, to LAWN DART into the POST! Rhea flops over in a daze and fans fire up! Raquel nods, she’s feeling it! Raquel puts Rhea into the ring, storms up to the apron, and fans fire up, except here comes Dom!

Mami reaches to Dommy but Raquel grabs Rhea’s legs! Dom holds onto Rhea, but Raquel drags them BOTH in! Dom wants mercy but he still runs away! Raquel drags him back in, scoops him, and POWERSLAMS him! Shoutout to Braun Strowman! But Rhea KICKS the bad leg, then KICKS Raquel down! Pump handle and RIPTIDE!!! Cover, Rhea wins!

Winner: Rhea Ripley, by pinfall (still WWE Women’s World Champion)

Call Dom the human insurance policy, this is TWICE that he has helped his fellow Judgment Day members in title matches tonight! Will anyone anywhere in the WWE ever stop the dirty, underhanded Dom-inance?

John Cena is backstage.

And he’s got a tie and suit on. “What a Payback it’s been so far!” And as a host, Cena realized he has the authority to give himself jobs he’s never had before, so that is why he’s going to be a backstage correspondent! Welcome at this time, his guests, the NEW Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions, The Judgment Day! Finn & Priest walk in, and Finn copies Cena’s old catchphrase, “The champs! Are! HEEERE~!” Cena says yes, they sure are. Now there was rumored dissention in the ranks but clearly, they held it together tonight. Any thoughts? Yeah. This is family. Brothers fight. But when they’re united, NOBODY can stop them.

They are here as the NEW tag team champions, Priest is still Mr. MITB, and they have the Women’s World Champion and the NXT North American Champion! The Judgment Day will always rise! Now time to go celebrate cuz they’ve got all the gold~! Finn & Priest head out, and Cena says this job is tougher than he thought.

WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Seth Rollins VS Shinsuke Nakamura!

The Visionary, the revolutionary, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins thought he could trust The King of Strong Style, but he was wrong. The moment he had his back to Nakamura, Nakamura stabbed him in the back. And worse still, Nakamura revealed to the world that Rollins’ back is badly damaged. Will Nakamura completely break Rollins, both physically and mentally? Or will Rollins fight through the pain and continue to live the dream come true?

Rollins makes his entrance in a very big, very poofy, very gold jacket, and he revels in the fans singing his song, “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” Nakamura’s entrance is about 30 seconds later, and has a dramatic animated opening! “Seth was once a brave man. Defiant. Bold. Unwavering. But… The storm has eroded him. He has served only his ego, and now the kanji symbol on his back is nothing more than a reminder of the man he once was. Like a horse at the end of his legs, it is MY duty to put Seth out of his misery. I will remove the burden of the World Heavyweight Championship that his back can no longer hold. Tonight, I set the world title free. Seth, this is the beginning of your end!”

Then Nakamura’s song plays, and he makes his way out in a dark red snake skin robe. “The Great Muta,” Keiji Mutoh, is in the crowd to watch his young rival finally main event a WWE PPV/PLE! The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who breaks who first!

The bell rings and fans fire up as the two circle. Nakamura and Rollins feel things out, fans start to duel with their chants, but Rollins likes that, too. They continue to circle, knuckle lock, feel things out, but Nakamura slips away. Nakamura and Rollins reset, Rollins rallies the fans, and the two tie up. Rollins waistlocks, Nakamura pries the hold open and wrenches the arm to a wristlcok. Rollins rolls, wrenches, hammerlocks, and he keeps Nakamura from ropes. Nakamura keeps reaching but Rollins jams his arm. Rollins wants a double wristlock but Nakamura holds it off. Rollins wrenches to a regular wristlock but Nakamura rolls, kips up and cartwheels to hammerlock.

Rollins reaches around, Nakamura headlocks to a takeover, but Rollins headscissors. Nakamura kips free, the two stand off, and fans cheer. Rollins and Nakamura reset, circle again, and fans duel again. The two knuckle lock, then Rollins kicks and wrenches and hammerlocks to a headlock then a drop toehold. Rollins ties up Nakamura’s legs and has an almost Queen Angelito stretch. Nakamura endures so Rollins shifts to focus on just the headlock. Nakamura fights up, squeezes the back with a side bearhug, but Rollins goes to ropes. The ref counts, Nakamura grins as he pats Rollins’ back, and then he lets off.

Nakamura uses his classic, “C’MON~!” Rollins smirks, but he still rushes in! Nakamura gets around to waistlock! Rollins fights, Nakamura shoves him and KICKS him in the back! Nakamura throws Rollins down, Rollins avoids the stomp and the buzzsaw and waistlocks, only for Nakamura to switch fast. Nakamura shoves Rollins but Rollins ROCKS Nakamura! Rollins CHOPS, JABS, and ROCKS Nakamura! Rollins fires off more, stomps Nakamura to a corner, the ref counts but Rollins lets off. Fans sing Rollins’ song, then fire up as he storms up on Nakamura. Rollins whips, Nakamura reverses, but Rollins goes up and over.

Rollins speeds up, ducks ‘n’ dodges and FLYING FOREARMS! Nakamura bails out but Rollins builds speed to DIVE! Direct hit on Nakamura and fans fire up! Rollins nods and he storms over to Nakamura. The ring count climbs, Rollins puts Nakamura in, and Rollins aims from a corner. Rollins runs up to kick Nakamura, then underhooks the arms! Nakamura back drops Rollins away! Rollins clutches his back, and Nakamura KICKS him there! Nakamura stands Rollins up to CLUB him in the back! And KICKS him again! Nakamura has Rollins in the corner, stomps him, then gives him BAD VIBRATIONS!

Fans rally and duel while the ref counts. Nakamura lets off, grins, and he drags Rollins up. Nakamura puts Rollins on the top rope, then runs in to TOP SHELF- NO, Rollins moves and the knee hits buckles! Rollins runs to HOTSHOT BULLDOG Nakamura down! Nakamura is down, Rollins goes to the apron to SPRINGBOARD SWANTON! LIONSAULT but Rollins lands on his feet as Nakamura bails out! Rollins just keeps moving to DIVE again! Another direct hit and fans fire up again! Nakamura crawls away but Rollins pursues. Rollins drags Nakamura up and SMACKS him off the steel steps!

Rollins dares Nakamura to talk more trash, then he SMACKS him off the desk! And again! “C’mon, Shin! Talk trash now!” Rollins SLAPS Nakamura, refreshes the ring count, then goes to the barrier! But Nakamura gets him first! ROCKET LAUNCHER onto the desk! Fans fire up as Nakamura RAMS Rollins into barriers! Nakamura drags Rollins up and into the ring, covers, ONE!! Rollins clutches his back but Nakamura puts him on ropes. Nakamura bends Rollins back against the ropes, then KICKS him! Fans duel as hard as ever while the ref reprimands. Nakamura brings Rollins around, hoists him to the top rope, and CLUBS him on the back!

Nakamura gets space, runs in, TOP SHELF KNEE! Nakamura flips Rollins over now, TOP SHELF KNEE into the back! Cover, TWO! Rollins is still in this but even that lateral press was meant to target the back. Nakamura KICKS Rollins around, and then HIP DROPS! Nakamura pulls Rollins back in a chinlock stretch! Rollins endures and the fans rally up. Rollins fights to his feet, pries the hold open, but Nakamura KICKS Rollins’ back! Nakamura gives Rollins some mocking kicks now, but Rollins fires off hands! Nakamura clinches for a BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Rollins is hanging in there but Nakamura pushes him around.

Nakamura drags Rollins to the apron, gets some more space, and he runs in to KNEE LIFT Rollins in the chest! Then GUILLOTINE KNEE DROP! Rollins falls to the floor, Nakamura drags him back up and in! Nakamura covers, TWO! Again, hooking the leg was to target Rollins’ back, the King of Strong Style is like a chess master! Rollins sits up into more kicks! Nakamura taunts Rollins, Rollins stands and he blocks a kick, but not the ENZIGURI! Nakamura has the leg now to turn Rollins over! HALF CRAB! Rollins endures, reaches out, and fans rally up again. Rollins crawls forward, but Nakamura drags him back!

Nakamura steps over to stomp Rollins right in the face! Rollins rolls through, kicks Nakamura back, and fans sing to coach him up. But Nakamura RAMS Rollins into a corner! Nakamura hops up the corner, grins as he takes aim, but Rollins CHOPS him first! Rollins CHOPS again, then CHOPS him again! Rollins climbs up after Nakamura, brings him up to the very top, but Nakamura fights back! They brawl, so Rollins changes plans to a SUPER STEINER! Both men are down and fans fire up again! Rollins goes to the corner, Nakamura sits up, and “This is Awesome!” as the two men rise. Rollins and Nakamura start trading forearms!

Nakamura fires a flurry but Rollins returns it with interest! Nakamura fires off a strike fest! Rollins LARIATS! Mule kick! Front kick! SLINGBLADE! Rollins hurries to the apron and climbs up the corner. FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura is still in this and Rollins is too sore to be frustrated. Rollins and Nakamura rise as the fans duel as hard as they can. Rollins reels Nakamura in, but Nakamura fights the lift! The back doesn’t help, but Rollins CLUBS away on Nakamura. Rollins slaps some fight into himself, but Nakamura slips out of the bomb! Rollins ducks the kick, waistlocks and ripcords, RAINMAKER!! Cover, TWO!!!

Rollins referencing Okada, Nakamura’s heir in NJPW and Chaos, was clever but not enough to finish this. Rollins sits up and frowns but the fans rally up. Rollins nods and gets back up. Rollins says he knows his back is messed up and the risks he takes every single time. Becky already worries, Rollins isn’t gonna let Nakamura make her worry more! Rollins fires off fists on Nakamura’s head! Fans fire up with Rollins and he takes aim from a corner. Rollins runs back in, but Nakamura avoids the stomp! SLEEPER HOLD! Rollins fights it, reaches out, but Nakamura clinches! Rollins CLUBS away and elbows free!

Nakamura goes to a corner, BOOTS back, and goes up to FLYING KNEE! Cover, TWO! Nakamura shakes his head and pounds the mat. Nakamura throws knees into Rollins from all sides! Nakamura then drags Rollins up and reels him in, scoop and SLAM! Rollins writhes but Nakamura looms over him. Nakamura stands Rollins up, to snap suplex! Nakamura is using standard moves to just torture Rollins now! Nakamura drags Rollins up again, reels him back in, and scoops, but Rollins slips free! Rollins boots but Nakamura blocks to put him in ropes! KICK and SLIDING GERMAN!! Cover, TWO!!

Rollins is still in this and Nakamura is growing frustrated. Nakamura stands Rollins up, INVERTED EXPLODER! Nakamura aims from the corner now, fans are torn, “YAO~!” Nakamura runs in, into a SUPERKICK!! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura survives the counter attack, and both men are down again! Fans sing “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” for Rollins as he rises. Rollins drags Nakamura around, brings him up, and swings a forearm! Nakamura staggers, Rollins ROCKS him with another forearm! Rollins won’t let Nakamura fall yet, and he ROLLING- NO, Nakamura slips around, ARMBAR TAKEDOWN!!

Rollins fights around, but he ends up in a TRIANGLE HOLD! Rollins clasps hands, tries to fight up to his feet, and tries to deadlift, but the back gives up!! Rollins falls over!! Nakamura pulls on the arm, squeezes tight around Rollins’ head and neck, and the ref checks. Rollins is still fighting, he gets back up, and fans fire up as Rollins deadlifts for the POWERBOMB!! Rollins manages to sit up and cover, TWO!! Nakamura is still in this and fans are dueling again! Both men stir, both men sit up, and Rollins snarls while Nakamura shakes his arms out. Both men face each other and nod as they stand! Fans are thunderous as the forearms start flying!

Rollins ROCKS Nakamura! Nakamura ROCKS Rollins! Rollins ROCKS Nakamura! Nakamura ROCKS Rollins! They go back and forth, they pick up speed, and then Rollins ROLLING ELBOWS! Rollins turns Nakamura, DREAM- NO, Nakamura ducks! Rollins ducks a roundhouse but not the WHEEL KICK! Nakamura hurries to fireman’s carry, but Rollins slips free to PELE! Both men are down again! Fans are thunderous again as these two are still fighting! Rollins rises as he hears the “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” echo out again. Rollins staggers to a corner, manages to climb up, but Nakamura trips him up!

Nakamura climbs up, SMACKS Rollins off the post, then drags him up again. Fireman’s carry, and a SUPER LANDSLIDE!!! Cover, TWO!?!?! Rollins survives and no one can believe it! Nakamura himself can’t believe it, but then he BLINDSIDE KINSHASAS!!! Nakamura reloads and aims from the other corner! Rollins slowly sits up, fans are thunderous, but then Rollins flops back over! Nakamura is annoyed, and he kicks Rollins around. Nakamura drags Rollins up, but Rollins SLAPS him! Nakamura is fuming, but Rollins SLAPS him again! Nakamura KICKS, BOOTS, KICKS, then reels Rollins in!

Rollins and Nakamura scrap, Nakamura just fires off kicks against the ropes! The ref reprimands and counts as Nakamura gives Rollins stomp after stomp in the ropes! Nakamura lets off at 4, then he drags Rollins back up. Nakamura brings Rollins around to suplex, but Rollins slips out! Rollins reels Nakamura into a waistlock, but Nakamura switches! But Rollins switches! But Nakamura switches! They go around and around, Rollins knees low! Underhooks! PEDIGREE!!! But Rollins’ back won’t let him make the cover! Rollins doesn’t care, he goes back to the corner! Rollins aims again, CURB- ENZIGURI!

Nakamura fireman’s carries, but Rollins sunset flips! Nakamura sits on it! TWO, and CURB STOMP!!! But Rollins again can’t cover! Rollins crawls over, has the cover now, ROLLINS WINS!!!

Winner: Seth Rollins, by pinfall (still WWE World Heavyweight Champion)

What a fight from Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins! Nakamura did everything he could while still playing by the rules, and it just wasn’t enough! The Visionary keeps this reign going, but with his secret out, how much longer will he last?

My Thoughts:

This was a great, maybe even awesome, Payback! If this is what we can call a “B Level” PPV/PLE, then I think WWE has raised the bar on what that means. The Steel Cage match of Becky VS Trish was an awesome opener, even with it playing up the usual steel cage match tropes. Becky winning and Stark ditching Trish were both the right moves. If we’re not getting Lita back in this story, then it’s fine that this story finishes up and moves on so we can see Becky and Stark both fight to get at the Women’s World Championship. And speaking of finishing the story, great Grayson Waller Effect because WOW, Jey Uso is now Raw! Did not see that coming in the Bloodline story, BUT perhaps this leads to Jey leading a team for Survivor Series against like, Jimmy, Solo and a trio from SmackDown.

Cena was a great host, I really liked his interaction with The Miz that led to a Special Guest Referee stipulation for Miz VS Knight. Miz VS Knight would’ve still been great on its own, but I did like the various interactions during the match with Cena. Knight winning is the right move, the fans loved it. And Cena giving Knight his respect and approval is great, would love to see more of them interacting while Cena is here. Great US Championship match from Rey VS Theory, though nothing that above and beyond what we’d see on SmackDown I suppose. Rey winning was also the right move, Theory needs to figure out something else to get him going.

Also great stuff as all the title matches were essentially in a row. The Steel City Street Fight was so wild, but of course The Judgment Day AND JD McDonagh get involved. It helped escalate things, like when Kevin & Sami went Pittsburgh Penguins mode, but of course it also helped Finn & Priest take the titles. They didn’t thank JD McDonagh in their interview promo with Cena, so I would think on Raw, McDonagh shows up, Finn celebrates with him but the others are still reluctant. In fact, Dom can point out his final move is what won things for them. Maybe we get Dom VS McDonagh? If JD wins, he’s in the faction? That’d be an interesting wrinkle to the on-again-off-again dysfunction.

And of course Dom got involved with Rhea’s match, that was also a given. Even so, Rhea VS Raquel was great stuff, and with Rhea retaining, we can bring in Becky. Though at the same time, they’re really trying to make Tiffy VS Becky a thing. WWE stop trying to make Becky VS Tiff happen, it’s not going to happen. I mean, it is, but ugh. But for all I know, Becky VS Tiff happens at NXT No Mercy since Kiana’s title match is Tuesday and she sure ain’t winning. And then after that, Becky VS Rhea can be for Fastlane the week after, or in November for like Crown Jewel or something.

And a great main event from Rollins VS Nakamura. They brought up the bad back, so they had the match be all about the back. A touch surprised Rollins retains here, but that was a great closing sequence. Nakamura after sure didn’t look as finished as you’d think, maybe he comes back for another round by Fastlane. And as I posed as a question, this story now has to be, “How long can Rollins last?” Nakamura revealed to everyone that Rollins is not going to be 100% at all, I feel like this is an even better time for Priest to cash in his MITB contract before the calendar year is out.

My Score: 8.9/10