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Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (12/18/23)

I’m dreaming of a GOLD Christmas!

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‘Twas the Raw Before Christmas…

… and all over the show, champions and challengers are going toe to toe! An Intercontinental and two tag team fights, that’s THREE championship matches on one Monday night!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Miracle on 34th Street Fight: R-Truth VS JD McDonagh; Truth wins.
  • WWE Intercontinental Championship, Miz’s Last Chance: GUNTHER VS The Miz; Gunther wins and retains the title, Miz can no longer challenge him.
  • WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Chelsea Green & Piper Niven VS Kayden Carter & Katana Chance; Carter & Chance win and become the new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.
  • Ivar w/ Sarah Logan VS Akira Tozawa w/ Maxxine Dupri; Ivar wins.
  • Jey Uso w/ Kofi Kingston VS Ludwig Kaiser w/ Giovanni Vinci; Jey wins.
  • Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships: Finn Balor & Damian Priest w/ Rhea Ripley VS The Creed Brothers; Finn & Priest win and retain the titles.

PLAY BY PLAY

The Judgment Day is here!

The fans boo as Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley, Dominik Mysterio & JD McDonagh all make their way to the ring ahead of their very busy night. The stage is set for the Irish Ace facing R-Truth in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight, but first, Damian Priest welcomes us to Monday Night Raw. And more importantly, ALL RISE for The Judgment Day! The fans boo instead. Finn tells the Creed Brothers, “Congratulations, boys. You earned it. You ran the gauntlet and become the #1 contenders to face me and my good man, Damian. For you, the biggest match of your career. For you, probably the biggest night of your life.

“But for us, it’s just another night at the office. Because you’re stepping in the ring with the only TWO-TIME Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions of the World!” Rhea says, “And Ivy Nile… Run your mouth again, and I’m gonna make what I did to your little friend, Maxxine Dupri, pale in comparison to what I do to you. Because it is  as simple as this: The Judgment Day, we ran 2023! And we are gonna continue to run 2024!” Dom starts but the fans boo even louder. Dom still says The Judgment Day runs ALL of the WWE! But then here comes Truth! And he wants them all to hold on! They left him behind!

He didn’t know they were opening the show! He loves opening the show. Des Moines, what’s up!? Welcome to Monday Night Raw! The fans cheer and JD tells Truth, “What the hell are you doing down here” Uh, he’s in Judgment Day, dawg. Priest & Finn keep JD cool, but Truth says last week’s beatdown was initiation, right? But he will say, not one to complain, but they kinda crossed the line. A lot of those- er, ALL of them, hurt. Physically and emotionally. And DP, he knows you didn’t mean that when you said you don’t like him. Truth saw it in Priest’s eyes. JD says if it’s getting hurt Truth is worried about, then get outta this ring right now.

Fans boo but Truth says look. Everyone is looking for a fight, right? Rhea wants to beat up Ivy, Finn & DP want to beat up on the Creeds, so Truth needs someone to beat up on! And he looks at JD. Fans fire up for these two, and Truth is seeing the trees, the lights. There’s a lot of animosity here, right? So let’s squash the beef and be a happy family. But they’ll do this as a Miracle on 34th Street Fight. Truth, that was already made official last week! It’s happening! Oh, okay. “Siri, how far is 34th Street?” Truth… This match is happening in this ring, right now! And for the last time, you are NOT in The Judgment Day!

Truth isn’t if he loses. But JD won’t be if he loses! So this is a LOSER LEAVES JUDGMENT DAY MATCH! No! That’s not how- Priest says hold on. Rhea tells him no but Priest likes the idea. The fans do, too! Rhea says forget it. JD says it doesn’t matter, Truth needs a miracle to win anyway. Then let’s do this! WHAT’S UP!? The fans are all fired up, and the others get out of the ring, who (supposedly) gets kicked off the team?

Miracle on 34th Street Fight: R-Truth VS JD McDonagh!

The bell rings, JD storms up but Truth TACKLES JD! Truth fires hands, JD gets up, but Truth ducks and kicks low. Truth runs to SCISSOR- NO, JD dodges, ROCKS Truth, and kicks him at the ropes. JD bumps Truth off buckles, Dom gets him a kendo stick, and JD digs boots in. JD takes the stick takes aim. JD jumps the stick, kicks low and hits the SCISSOR KICK! Fans fire up and Truth takes off his belt! Fans fire up as Truth SPANKS JD out of the ring! Truth goes out after JD, SMACKS him off the Christmas cookies, then stalks behind. JD CHHUCKS a tree! Truth dodges, then hands him a gift, to BOOT it into his face!

Truth drags JD up, Dom coaches JD but Truth puts JD in the ring. Truth hugs it out with Dom, but then Dom POSTS Truth! Fans boo Dirty Dom being a Scrooge, but Raw goes to break.

Raw returns, Truth throws body shots to get out of a chinlock, then he ROCKS JD! Truth whips JD to a corner, runs in and SPLASHES! Truth then hits a BIG hip toss! Cover, TWO! JD is still in this but Truth says he has an idea. Truth goes out to fetch a TABLE! The fans are loving it but Dom shouts to JD to get up! Truth slides the table in but JD WRECKS him with a dropkick! Fans boo but JD drags Truth up and puts him in the ring. JD storms up on Truth, KICKS him in the side, and fans chant “JD SUCKS!” JD whips Truth, Truth BOOTS back! But Dom trips Truth into JD’s jingle bells! Dom apologizes, then drags Truth out.

But Truth whips Dom into steel steps, and then Dom falls into the tree! Truth uses the fire extinguisher to BLAST JD! JD flails and flounders, and Truth sets up the table! The fans fire up, Truth positions the table just right, and then goes back for JD. JD swings but Truth counter punches! And again! Truth then dodges to flying shoulder! Truth shouts out his childhood hero, John Cena, with the SPIN OUT BOMB! And of course “YOU CAN’T-” JD KICKS Truth from below! But Truth comes back to CALF KICK! Truth resets, “YOU CAN’T SEE ME!” FIVE KNUCKLE SHUFFLE! Truth then fireman’s carries and aims for the table!

Fans fire up but JD flails free! JD shoves, runs in, but Truth TOSSES him out! Truth goes out the side, grabs the Christmas tree and brings it around, to CLOBBER JD with! JD flounders, Truth puts him back in the ring and brings him to the table. Truth sets JD on the table, goes up the corner, and fans fire up! But JD hops off to ROCK Truth first! JD climbs up, he and Truth throw hands, and then JD HEADBUTTS! Truth falls back, fans boo, but JD sits Truth back up, ripping at the shirt. But Truth SPEARS JD down through the table!! Truth is just on top of JD for the cover, and Truth WINS!

Winner: R-Truth, by pinfall

Even Truth can’t believe it! Truth won and is “still in the Judgment Day!” But will Truth really have his Christmas wish and replace JD in the most dominant faction on Raw? Or will the fun and games be over after tonight?

 

Kayden Carter & Katana Chance speak.

They ask Chelsea Green & Piper Niven if they feel that. Do they feel the storm that’s coming? Because if they don’t, they will soon. These two are under the electric sky, and will become the NEW WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions! And guess what? Chelsea & Piper, your time is up, and it is time to party! WOOP WOOP! Will KC Squared truly be the life of the party after tonight?

 

Nia Jax is here!

The Irresistible Force refused to give The Man her grudge match, because Becky Lynch needs her more than she needs Becky Lynch. But then what does Nia plan on doing next? We find out, after the break.

Raw returns and fans boo as Nia has the mic. But before she can say anything, BECKY is here! The fans fire up as Becky makes her way down to the ring, but Nia storms her way out. Becky gets herself a mic to ask where Nia’s going. Is she scared? She has a mic in her hands, so surely she has something to say. Was it about Becky? Because she can just say it to Becky’s face now. Nia says as much as she would “love” to break Becky’s face again, she has more important matters to deal with. Because before Becky so rudely interrupted, Nia was going to announce that she’s entering the Women’s Royal Rumble.

Oh, great. And the fans don’t care. But maybe they care that she’s here. No? Well, maybe they care that Becky’s here! The fans cheer that. In fact, The Man has come around to Des Moines, and she came here looking for a fight! The fans also cheer that. Nia asks if Becky knows why they’ve never fought. It’s because “they” (management) is afraid of what Nia would do to Becky. Fans boo that, but Nia says face it. Becky is the moneymaker of the company. And if they were to go 1v1, that would end. Look at Becky! She’s the size of Nia’s leg! Nia would literally squash Becky and break her all over again. Is that what she wants?

Becky says Nia has it right, she is the moneymaker. But that is because she will fight anyone, any time, anywhere! So it isn’t “they” who stop this, it is not “they” who are afraid, it is Nia. Because Nia’s entire existence here has been on the back of someone else’s name. First, it was her bloodline. Now it is Becky. Because while Becky goes down as the greatest to ever do it, Nia’s only claim to fame is that she broke the nose of the greatest to ever do it. And so Nia doesn’t want this fight because that all goes away. Then there’s no “woman who made The Man,” just “the woman who lost to the greatest to ever do it.”

But if Nia wants to prove Becky wrong, just fight her right here, right now! Alright, fine! Get a ref! Right now! Let’s go! A ref appears, Nia huffs and puffs her way back, and the fans are all fired up! Nia gets in the ring, but then steps right back out! Fans boo and Nia says, “See how badly you want this? You’re not gonna get it.” Fans boo more but Nia says this happens on HER terms. In fact, this happens in HER hometown of San Diego! Nia VS Becky in two weeks, at Day One. And after Nia breaks Becky and she’s in the hospital with her little daughter, she’ll be saying, “Mommy, why’re you uglier than usual?” And that’s because Nia broke Becky’s face.

Nia taunts Becky as she walks away, but Becky rushes out to attack! Becky jumps on and fires fists! The fans fire up, security rushes out and they pull Becky away, but Nia CLUBS Becky down! Fans boo as Nia leaves, but will the first day of 2024 be the last day Nia runs her mouth?

 

“Kofi Klaus” visited the arena!

Before the show, he gave out free toys and merchandise to the fans, and even did some holiday twerking. Kofi Klaus is now in the back and he sees DIY! What would they like for Christmas? Well, they’d love the tag titles. Is there a match in there somewhere? No, but here’s a Jey Uso YEET shirt! Oh, Gargano’s son loves Jey! How’d Kofi know? Kofi Klaus always knows! HO HO HO! DIY then moves on to find The Miz preparing for his title match. The Miz sings the theme song, “WE ARE~ WE ARE~! D I Y! M I Z!” Not bad. But while they’ve all had their differences in the past, last week was great. Gargano and Miz shake hands, but Ciampa says no.

Ciampa says it wasn’t great. It was awesome. They shake hands now, and Jackie Redmond walks over. DIY heads out and Jackie says the Intercontinental Championship means so much to Miz. Is he feeling any pressure going into this title match knowing it is his last chance against Gunther? Miz brings up how a few weeks ago, he said we won’t know who Gunther really is until he’s at the bottom of the mountain. But that boulder at the top of the mountain sure seems sturdy. But the foundation is cracking, Imperium is at odds, and the first time we saw a hint of personality was when Miz rattled him!

“The man who is ‘just an entertainer’ ROCKED his foundation, and pushed him to the brink of losing the one thing that makes him interesting.” So Miz plans on finishing what he started by becoming a NINE TIME Intercontinental Champion! So you ask, is there added pressure? Why not ask the man who never wants to face Miz again if there’s any added pressure. With that, the Hollywood A-Lister heads out. Will this be the end of the series? Or just a new beginning?

WWE Intercontinental Championship, Miz’s Last Chance: GUNTHER VS The Miz!

Raw returns and Der Ring General makes his entrance. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if this is truly a skull-crushing finale!

The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally up, the two tie up, and Gunther hits a headlock takeover. Miz fights up, puts Gunther on ropes, and the ref counts. Gunther turns things around on Miz, lets off with pats on the shoulder, then dares Miz to bring it. The fans boo, the two tie up again, and Gunther trips Miz, has the legs, but Miz scrambles to the ROPEBREAK. The ref counts, Gunther lets off and smirks. The two reset and the fans rally up more. They tie up, Gunther powers to a clinch and puts Miz on ropes. The ref counts, Gunther lets off, but Miz avoids the chop to CHOP! And KICK! And KICK!

Gunther blocks a kick, CHOPS Miz down, and grins as he looms over Miz. Gunther eggs Miz on, soaks up heat, but Miz drags Gunther down! HEEL HOOK! Gunther moves around, Miz rolls to shift, DECK Gunther, and tie up the legs in an INDIAN DEATHLOCK! Miz puts pressure on the hold but Gunther CHOPS! Miz stays on the hold, stands with it, and he throws down forearms! The fans fire up as Miz fires off! Miz then stands with the deathlock, he eggs Gunther on, and then Miz falls back to SNAP the lock! Gunther flails, reaches out, crawls back, ROPEBREAK! Miz lets go and Gunther even kicks from below.

Miz BOOTS Gunther out of the ring! The fans fire up was Miz runs, but Gunther avoids the dropkick to CHOP Miz down! Gunther hauls Miz up, reels him in, but Miz fights the bomb! Gunther tries again, APRON PNOWERBOMB! Miz sputters and fans boo while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and fans fire up as Miz fires haymakers on Gunther! Miz runs, but Gunther BOOTS him down! Miz flops to the apron, sits up in a daze, but Gunther soaks up the heat and mocks the massive nuts. Gunther sits Miz up to KICK! Gunther eggs Miz on, KICKS him again, and Miz winces. The fans rally for Miz, Gunther drags him up, and whips him to ropes. Miz ROCKS Gunther with a forearm! Miz runs to ROCK Gunther again! Miz keeps moving, Gunther CHOPS him down! And KICKS him in the back! Gunther grins as Miz writhes. Gunther looms over Miz, taunts him, “I told you, you do not belong with me in this sacred ring.”

Gunther kicks Miz around while calling him a wannabe. Gunther eggs Miz to get back up, then kicks him around. Fans boo, Gunther sits Miz up to CHOP him down! Miz shakes his head, refusing to stay down. Miz sits up but Gunther brings Miz around, to CHOP! Miz CHOPS back! They CHOP back and forth! Gunther then UPPERCUTS Miz to a corner! Gunther grins, perhaps amused by this fight now. Gunther kicks and knees Miz around in the corner! The ref counts, Gunther lets off and paces. Fans boo but Gunther just soaks it up. Gunther storms up on Miz, and whips him corner to corner. Gunther runs in to CHOP!

Gunther whips Miz corner to corner again, runs back in, but Miz BOOTS him! And BOOTS again! Miz runs in, A-LIST LARIAT! Miz shoves Gunther away, the fans fire up and Miz climbs! SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY, but Gunther catches him! Gunther puts Miz on the top rope to CHOP! And Gunther climbs up to STAND on Miz! The ref counts as Miz is bent back! Gunther lets off at 4, to CHOP again! Miz flops to the floor, crawls around the way, but Gunther storms out after him. Fans boo but Gunther storms up on Miz, to CHOP POST! Gunther clutches his hand, he and Miz have to hurry back into the ring, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and fans rally as Miz endures a sleeper! Miz fights up, pries the hold open, and he gets that bad hand! ELBOW BREAKER! ELBOW BREAKER! And then a KICK to the arm! Another KICK! Another KICK! Gunther blocks, trips Miz, and works to turn Miz over! Miz CLUBS the bad arm, pulls on the hand and twists the wrist! Gunther shirts to STF! Then he throws down elbows! CRAVAT STF!! Miz endures, reaches out, claws at the mat, then claws at Gunther’s bad hand! Miz wrenches the arm and hits a BASEMENT DDT! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Gunther shakes the bad hand and goes to ropes.

Miz rises, the fans fire up, and Miz blocks the chop from the left hand! Another DDT! Gunther is dazed and the fans fire up again! Miz feeds off the energy as Gunther goes to ropes. Miz runs in, ducks ‘n’ dodges and tilt-o-whirls to DDT! Cover, TWO!! Gunther survives and clutches the bad hand. Miz keeps his cool, and he stands to stomp the bad hand! And again! Miz ROCKS Gunther with haymaker after haymaker! Miz wraps the arm around the ropes and pulls! The ref counts, Miz lets off to run, but into a SHOTGUN! Gunther hauls Miz up, GENERAL BOMB! High stack cover, TWO, but into the BOSTON CRAB!!

Miz endures, the fans are thunderously behind him, and he fights his way around! Miz reaches out, Gunther’s bad hand loses grip, Miz gets the ROPEBREAK!! The fans fire up as Gunther lets go in frustration. “This is Awesome!” and Gunther storms up on Miz. Gunther kicks Miz around, pie faces him, and Miz sputters. Gunther CHOPS, and CHOPS, and then eggs Miz on. Miz eggs Gunther on! Gunther drags Miz up, but Miz SLAPS him! Gunther grabs Miz for a SLEEPER! Body scissors, but Miz rolls back, TWO!!! Gunther reels Miz in, Miz fights and the bad arm gives up! Miz BOOTS and SKULL CRUSHNIG FINALE!!! Cover, TWO!!!

Gunther survives and Miz can’t believe it! The fans fire up as Miz rises again, they want that “One More Time!” Miz KICKS Gunther, KICKS him again, and runs, but Gunther LARIATS!! Gunther powered through the pain, and now he goes up top! But Miz is up to ROCK Gunther first! Miz climbs up after Gunther, the fans fire up, but Gunther throws body shots. And CHOPS! But then Miz KICKS the bad hand! Miz climbs up again, brings Gunther in, full nelson and SUPER SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!! But Miz can’t make the cover! He has to crawl over, and Gunther rolls away!! Gunther rolls to safety and fans can’t believe it! Miz can’t believe it!

The ref counts, Miz goes out after Gunther and puts him back in quickly. Miz hurries in, but right into a GENERAL BOMB!! Gunther isn’t done there, he manages a ripcord and LARIAT!! And then Gunther hauls Miz up, gets him up again, GENERAL BOMB!! High stack, Gunther wins!!!

Winner: Gunther, by pinfall (still WWE Intercontinental Champion)

Just as Miz found a way to weaken Der Ring General, Der Ring General finds a way to survive against The Miz! And now, Miz can NEVER challenge for this title again, so long as Gunther is the champion. And at this rate, will anyone else ever be Intercontinental Champion?

 

Gunther regroups with Imperium.

They applaud his grand victory, and Ludwig Kaiser says it was a joy to watch. Congratulations. Gunther says that as far as he understands, these two have no reason to be jolly. He’s the only one contributing! The whole last year for them was a complete write off. As he deserves, as the legendary champion he is, he is going to step away for a few weeks to recharge. You two stay and grind! Work hard! And finally impress him. Carry on. Der Ring General has given his orders, and in comes Kofi Klaus! Why the long faces, boys? What’s wrong? Kofi, stop. They don’t have time for this nonsense. Pack up y our little presents and get out of here.

Ho-ho-hold on a minute, guys. Just because Gunther Claus put you on his naughty list doesn’t mean you can take it out on everyone else. Even so, Kofi has a gift. Look. Open it up. Ludwig unwraps the gift, and it’s COAL! HAHA! Ludwig throws the coal away and gets in Kofi’s face. Ludwig & Vinci back away, and Kofi says yeah, what’d you think was gonna happen? You gotta be nice the whole year round! Let that be a lesson to you! Kofi knows when they’ve been naughty and when they’ve been nice, so be good for goodness sake!

 

Shinsuke Nakamura has a story book ready.

It’s The American Nightmare Before Christmas! Nakamura reads: “‘Twas the week before Christmas, and out from my mouth, came a warning to Cody that Shinsuke would pounce. While your daughter is nestled all snug in her bed, and visions of championships dance through your head, Shinsuke is plotting to live out your story, to ruin your plans and extinguish your glory. The Nightmare is over, the Nightmare is through. The mist burns its eyes, for the Nightmare is you! You bastard, you cancer, you prancer, you nitwit! You’re vomit, you’re stupid, you’re father was inbred! My goal is to see that you’re living in fright. Merry Christmas to you, I will be your last fight.”

The King of Strong Style tells Cody- WAIT, CODY FINDS HIM! Cody attacks Nakamura and smack shim off the walls! And then they go out into the rest of the backstage area! Into the road cases, body shots and forearms, then out to the crowd! Fans fire up but security rushes in! Cody pushes through them to continue after Nakamura but now Nakamura hits back! Nakamura snarls, Cody gets loose and ROCKS him! Security drags Cody away and Nakamura flounders to ringside. Cody powers up to RAM the security into barriers! Cody goes up the barriers to AX HANDLE Nakamura down! Then Cody clears the desk!

Security hurries to get Nakamura out of there, but Cody is in the ring! Cody DIVES onto them all! Fans fire up as Cody brings Nakamura back to the desk, SMACKS him off it, then climbs up onto it! The fans are thunderous for Cody as he hauls Nakamura up! But security saves Nakamura! Nakamura gets away, grinning all the way. Fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT!” but when and where will we see this rematch?

 

Adam Pearce talks with Akira Tozawa.

He wants to make sure they’re both on the same page. Is Tozawa saying 100% this is the match he wants? Tozawa says, “Let’s do it!” Tozawa heads out, will he get whatever it is he wants? As for Pearce, Chelsea & Piper storm in and Chelsea asks why he hasn’t been returning her calls. Is he seriously making them defend their titles against Kayden & Katana? Wait, no. Since it’s the holidays, maybe he could find it in his tiny heart to cancel the match. Please? They’re not feeling well. Pearce tells them that yes, it is the holidays. So no, they still have to. Ugh, Pearce is such a Scrooge! Well, this Scrooge says the match is next, so get to the ring.

Way to ruin Christmas, Pearce! They’re talking to Aldis! Bronson Reed then storms in. He hears Pearce has plans for determining Gunther’s next challenger. He does. Then let’s talk. Pearce agrees to that. Will the Colossal Aussie get in on whatever kind of match Pearce has planned?

 

WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Chelsea Green & Piper Niven VS Kayden Carter & Katana Chance!

The Hot Mess & Scottish Viper want to be champions without putting in the work, and that’s just not how this works. But Christmas is about giving, not receiving, so will KC Squared give the champs an L for the holidays?

Raw returns and the champs make their entrance. The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who gets to put gold under the tree!

The teams sort out and Kayden starts against Chelsea. They tie up, Chelsea hits a headlock takeover, but Kayden headscissors. Chelsea kips free, but Kayden hits the takeover. Chelsea headscissors then CLUBS away on Kayden. Fans boo but Chelsea steps on Kayden. Chelsea takes a bow, then whips. Kayden reverses but Chelsea SLAPS her! Chelsea whips, Kayden ducks under and trips Chelsea, to swivel the hips. Fans fire up, Chelsea runs in, but then blocks Kayden’s hip toss. Kayden blocks Chelsea’s hip toss to arm-drag! And DROPKICK! Chelsea flounders to ropes, Kayden tags Katana. They trip, dropkick, and slingshot SENTON! Cover, TWO!

Chelsea scrambles away to tag in Piper. Fans fire up as Piper and Katana circle. Piper BLASTS Kayden, Katana dodges her, and Katana ducks the boot! But Piper grabs Katana to send her to the corner. Katana slips out, ducks under, slingshots around, and keeps moving, but Piper CLOBBERS her! Fans boo but Piper drags Katana up to scoop. Katana slips free, tags Kayden, wheelbarrow BULLDOG and the springboard SHOTGUN! Piper flounders, Katana tags back in. They get Piper up but Chelsea anchors Katana. Katana kicks Chelsea down but Piper shoves Kayden into her! Piper then has them both down, goes up, DOUBLE VADER BOMB!! Cover, TWO!!

Piper & Chelsea are surprised but Katana is still in this, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Piper runs in, but Katana avoids the cannonball! Chelsea tags in and hurries to swing on Kayden. Kayden dodges, then so does Katana, hot tag to Kayden! Kayden runs up to CLOBBER Chelsea! And again! Kayden SPLASHES Piper, too! Then she dodges Chelsea, kicks the legs out and SUPERKICKS! Piper staggers, and Kayden hits a DROPKICK SPLASH COMBO! Cover, but Piper rebounds, so Kayden moves, the SPLASH squashes Chelsea!! Fans fire up as Piper panics! Kayden SUPERKICKS! Kayden runs up to BOOT WASH Chelsea! Then IMPLODER LEG DROP! Cover, TWO!

Kayden is stunned but she refocuses. Chelsea goes to a corner, Kayden hoists her up top. Kayden climbs up after Chelsea, fans fire up, and Kayden goes to suplex. But Chelsea throws hands! Chelsea HEADBUTTS Kayden, leaps, but Kayden gets under! Chelsea comes back, ROUGH RYDER! Cover, TWO! Kayden survives and Chelsea is furious! Another cover, TWO! Chelsea is beside herself, and she drags Kayden up. Chelsea brings Kayden over, tags Piper, and they reel Kayden in to double suplex, only for Kayden to fight free! But she runs into a COCE BREAKER SENTON COMBO!! Cover, KATANA BREAKS IT!

The fans fire up and Chelsea is fuming! Chelsea whips, Katana reverses and sends Chelsea out! Piper hauls Kayden up, scoops, but Kayden slips free to SUPERKICK! Piper is down, Kayden positions her and tags Katana. Katana goes up, they combine, KEG STAND SPLASH!! Cover, CHELSEA BREAKS IT!! Chelsea almost didn’t get that in time! Kayden runs in, but Chelsea gets around to GERMAN SUPLEX! Chelsea drags Piper to the corner, tags in, then gets Katana up. Chicken wings and- NO, Katana slips out to CODE BREAKER in return!! Tag to Kayden and they reset! AFETR PARTY!!!! Cover, KATANA & KAYDEN WIN!!!

Winners: Kayden Carter & Katana Chance, by pinfall (NEW WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions)

Get the drinks and the glow sticks, it’s time to party! Chelsea was right to be afraid of these two, because she and Piper just lost their titles! Will every night be pumping with Kayden & Katana leading the Women’s Tag Division?

 

Ivy Nile works out with The Alpha Academy.

Ivy does box push-ups and gets to 100! Incredible! She’s ready for Rhea! And Maxxine thanks her for having her back. No problem. Ivy heard what Rhea had to say, so that’s why she asked Pearce for a match with Rhea. Because Ivy’s goal for 2024 is to become the NEW Women’s World Champion. But she’s gotta go, she has to support The Creeds in their title match tonight. Ivy heads out and the Academy wishes her luck. And that ambition is so good! Gotta love when someone chases down challenges. But then Tozawa says speaking of challenges…! He’s all fired up as he has his match tonight.

What? With who? HIM…! IVAR?!? Ivar chuckles and Sarah Logan ushers him along. Gable says that when he told Tozawa to go big, he didn’t mean that big. Yes, Tozawa understands. Does he? ARIGATOOO~! Oh boy. Is Tozawa even going to make it to the New Year at this rate?

 

Katana & Kayden are buzzing backstage.

The other ladies of the division are there to applaud, and then Kofi Klaus walks in! He’s excited to see the NEW W! W! E! Women’s! World! Tag! Team! CHAMPIONS~! But a quick question: what would they like for Christmas? They already got what they wanted. Okay, that’s true. See you later. Kofi heads out, Katana & Kayden say that dreams really do come true. With that said, let’s go party~! Indi & Candice are all for that. But Natalya, Nox, Shayna & Zoey hang back. Natty says since they have new champions, they’ll need new challengers. Shayna says that’s just what she was thinking. Will the Queen of Harts & Welsh Firecracker or the Queen of Spades & Hunter be next in line?

 

Ivar w/ Sarah Logan VS Akira Tozawa w/ Maxxine Dupri!

Raw returns and Tozawa makes his entrance, the Alpha Queen by his side. The bell rings and Maxxine coaches Tozawa on. Tozawa fires up, runs in, and fires off! Ivar shoves Tozawa away but Tozawa comes back with more! But then Ivar TOSSE Tozawa out! Tozawa gets up, runs back in, SOBAT, SPIN, SLIDE, SPIN KICK! “A THANK YEW~!” The fans fire up but Ivar blocks the whip. Ivar whips Tozawa, runs in, but into BOOTS! Tozawa goes up and leaps, but Ivar catches him! Tozawa still RANAS Ivar into buckles! Tozawa goes up again to leap, but into Ivar’s arms! Maxxine says this is okay, but Ivar pops Tozawa around.

Tozawa slips out the back, waistlocks, but Ivar bucks the O’Conner. Tozawa slides under, ducks ‘n’ dodges, pop-up SATELLITE DDT! The fans are fired up as Tozawa pumps a la Otis! Tozawa runs corner to corner, into the SEATED SENTON! Ivar snarls and checks his chin. Ivar then goes up the corner, fans boo, but Ivar hits the WARBEARD- FLOP as Tozawa moves!! The fans fire up with Tozawa and he rips the shirt! Mostly. Nope, all the way! Tozawa hurries up top, but Sarah distracts! The fans boo, but Maxxine YANKS her down! Maxxine remembers Sarah’s tactics from before, but Sarah remembers the humiliation!

Sarah shrieks and chases Maxxine, but Maxxine sends her into barriers! “A THANK YEW~!” Then Tozawa stands, for the TOKYO TOWER SENTON!! Cover, TWO?!? Ivar is still in this and Maxxine thought Tozawa had this! She coaches Tozawa back up, and he runs in, into the HEEL KICK OF DOOM!! Tozawa is turned inside out, but Ivar isn’t done! Ivar goes up the corner again, but Tozawa trips him! Ivar lands on his Viking long boat! Tozawa hurries up to GAMANGIRI! And then he positions Ivar just right, climbs up after him, and SUPER STEIN- NO! Ivar stops that, hoists Tozawa up for a SUPER POWERSLAM!! Cover, Ivar wins!

Winner: Ivar, by pinfall

Tozawa did go big, but maybe too big! Ivar wins out, will Ragnarök come to 2024?

 

Seth Rollins is here!

Iowa’s favorite son is home for the holidays, and the fans sing his song! “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” The World Heavyweight Champion may be wearing a Grinch colored leather jacket, but he’s in a great mood as always as he swaggers into the ring, gets the mic, and revels in the fans singing along. “DES MOOOOINES~! Welcome to Monday… Night… Rollins!” And sing it, because he is a Visionary, he is a Revolutionary, he IS Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins! And things around here have been heating up for this Iowa boy. And after his little “confrontation” last week, Rollins is feeling more motivated than he ever has to continue to be the BEST WORLD CHAMPION in this entire industry!

And if you thought 2023 was something, wait until you see what they do in 2024! And that starts with Day One Raw, when Rollins defends his World Heavyweight Championship against Drew McIntyre. The fans boo Drew, but Rollins says now now. Say what you want about McIntyre, but at Crown Jewel- Wait! Here comes McIntyre! Rollins sets the belt down and unbuttons the jacket as McIntyre storms into the ring. McIntyre gets a mic but Rollins says before McIntyre even says anything, Rollins hasn’t forgotten that headbutt so tread lightly! McIntyre says he isn’t here to fight. They’ve got their match on Day One, so he’s here to tell Rollins he is proud of him.

McIntyre says there are so many people turning a blind eye, kissing arse when it comes to CM Punk, but not Rollins. Rollins looked Punk right in the eye and told him the truth as it needed to be said. That, my friends, is a real leader. And look at Rollins! He’s on top of the world as champion, on a roll heading into the holiday season, in front of his home crowd and they’re all singing his song. The fans again sing, and McIntyre says it must feel good, huh? World Heavyweight Champion gets to go home and spend time with his family. Recently, McIntyre’s been in a lot of self-reflection, talking about his own family lately, the sacrifices made.

McIntyre had a chance to go home not long ago. He started to see things he didn’t like, started to feel a certain way, started to feel… guilty. He started to see his family getting older, and after 16 years, for the first time ever, McIntyre questioned if this is all worth it. He was sure Rollins couldn’t relate to that, but perhaps he can. Rollins has someone he shares his life with, his wife is in the exact same boat as McIntyre. All the way across the world from her home, chasing her dream, doing what she can, sacrificing every single week and that time with her family. Rollins has been part of those conversations, and maybe had some of his own.

Surely he had the “good” conversations, like wishing to be back for a wedding or something, but there’s the big show coming up and they can’t let the fans down. And the “difficult” conversations, like when a family member is ill. McIntyre’s mom, and her dad, and all they want do is be by their side and hold them. But then the family tells them no, don’t you dare stop. Keep chasing the dream and make it happen. That is what they did. And then suddenly, those loved ones aren’t here anymore. McIntyre tries not to get emotional as he tells Rollins to look him in the eye. McIntyre doesn’t want the title, he NEEDS it!

McIntyre needs the validation of knowing that all these sacrifices were worth it! That the hurt caused wasn’t for nothing. And McIntyre is willing to hurt Rollins for everything. he will do whatever it takes to take that title at Day One. Fans boo but Rollins says here’s the thing. He doesn’t think we know entirely how to feel about McIntyre. Because McIntyre says things like that, Rollins wants to take it to heart and believe. But as of late, McIntyre’s actions and words haven’t lined up. So Rollins doesn’t know whether to believe him or call him out on his crap. But he’ll say this: Rollins respects McIntyre.

Because after Crown Jewel, McIntyre said he would find a way back, would work his way into another opportunity at the title, and he’s done that. But Rollins wants to know. As much as McIntyre needs this, what makes him think the outcome will be any different? McIntyre says he’ll do whatever it takes, that he ‘s not the same person, so what does that mean? He’s willing to cheat? To lie? To hurt people? To take shortcuts? Is that what it is? Yeah, McIntyre has changed. But in many ways, he’s the same. He still wants to point fingers at everyone else. Still wants to shift the blame! McIntyre will do whatever it takes, except the ONE thing that he needs to do! To take responsibility for your actions!

McIntyre needs to look himself in the mirror and face the hard reality that the only person keeping Drew McIntyre from being world champion is Drew McIntyre. Rollins stood in this ring last week, looked a man right in the eye and told him he hates him. Rollins meant that. Rollins is looking McIntyre in the eyes and doesn’t hate him. Rollins pities McIntyre. Merry Christmas, see you in a couple weeks. Rollins drops the mic and heads out. But McIntyre drags him back in! Rollins ROCKS McIntyre, then dodges him to SUPERKICK! McIntyre tumbles out of the ring, Rollins DIVES onto him! Rollins rains down fists, but McIntyre THROWS Rollins into barriers!

McIntyre storms up on Rollins, fires hands, fans sing the song but McIntyre says he doesn’t need anyone’s pity!! McIntyre then gets Rollins up in an Inverted Alabama, for an INVERTED ALABAMA SLAM onto the steel steps!! Rollins writhes and clutches his arm! The fans boo but McIntyre shows no remorse. Will Rollins be ready in two weeks for that golden grudge match?

 

The Creeds get ready for their match.

Time to make dreams come true! Cody Rhodes walks over and shakes their hands. He thanks them for last week. Julius says he can count on them any time. Cody appreciates that. And Cody hopes the Creeds drag Judgment Day around for him, and that they leave as champs. Brutus thanks Cody, and then both Brutus & Julius are hyped up! Will they be able to bring gold back to the Diamond Mine?

 

Kofi Klaus returns to ringside!

He has another round of free merchandise for the fans! Shirts fly through the sky, but then Imperium attacks! These Grinches beat up on Kofi in the ring! Fans boo as they mug Kofi, then hit a BIG back suplex! They even rip the beard away! Vinci rains down fists, but here comes JEY USO! Jey runs up to fire off haymakers! Fans chant “YEET! YEET!” with every shot! Jey DECKS Vinci, DUMPS Ludwig, and then FLIES out onto them both! Jey stands tall and the fans fire up! Jey helps Kofi to his feet, and Jey calls out Ludwig! “I want you, pretty boy! Let’s go!” Fans fire up for this one, will it be a Merry YEETMAS here tonight?

Jey Uso VS Ludwig Kaiser w/ Giovanni Vinci!

Raw returns and the match is on! Ludwig headlocks but Jey powers up and out. Ludwig runs Jey over, fans boo, but things speed up. Jey drops down, CLOBBERS Ludwig, then ROCKS him with haymakers! The fans chant “YEET! YEET! YEET”! Jey ROCKS Ludwig more, then whips him corner to corner. Ludwig reverses, Jey goes up and over, then UPPERCUTS! Fans fire up, and they join in on “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jey runs, but into a LARIAT! Ludwig snarls, talks trash, and drags Jey around. Ludwig rains down fists, the fans boo, but Ludwig lets off. Ludwig has Jey on ropes, CHOKES him, but lets off to then KICK Jey.

Ludwig taunts Jey, clamps on the chinlock, and he even digs an elbow into Jey’s face! Ludwig ELBOWS Jey down, then stalks him to the corner. Ludwig stands Jey up, whips him to ropes, then CLOBBERS Jey! Fans boo Ludwig while Jey flops out of the ring. Jey gets back in but Ludwig clamps on with a facelock. Ludwig CLUBS Jey, CLUBS him again, but Jey fires hands again! The fans “YEET!” and Jey whips, but Ludwig reverses. Jey hits buckles hard and falls over! The fans boo Ludwig as he flexes. Ludwig stalks Jey to a corner, CHOKES him on the ropes, but lets off as the ref counts. Vinci gets a cheap shot in! Ludwig covers, TWO!

Ludwig paces around, drags Jey up, and Ludwig grins. Fans rally with “UCEY! UCEY!” Jey kicks, Ludwig blocks and even ducks the dragon whip! Ludwig runs up to clothesline Jey up and out! The fans boo, Ludwig runs in to UPPERCUT Jey down! Imperium looms over Jey as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Jey fights up while Ludwig has a chinlock. Jey fires body shots, shoves Ludwig, but Ludwig UPPERCUTS! Jey PELES on return! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Vinci coaches Ludwig, but Jey sits up first. Jey blocks a punch to give a punch! And again! Jey fires off, “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Jey pops ‘n’ locks and p uts some stank on the HAYMAKER! Fans fire up as Jey whips, but Ludwig reverses. Jey slips out of the pop-up to mule kick, uppercut, kick, but Ludwig says “NEIN!” But the DRAGON WHIP hits! And then the HIP ATTACK! Cover, TWO! Ludwig stays in this but Jey stays focused.

Jey drags Ludwig up, reels him into a fireman’s carry, but Ludwig claws the eyes! Ludwig shoves and fireman’s carries, ROLLING DEATH VALLEY! Cover, TWO! Ludwig is stunned, and he seethes as he looms over Jey. Ludwig gets Jey in a clinch, but Jey slips free to shove and SUPERKICK! Fans fire up as Jey goes up top! But Ludwig gets the ref to check him, Vinci SHOVES Jey down! Ludwig runs up, GAMANGIRI! Cover, TWO!! Jey is still in this and the fans fire up! KOFI KLAUS is back! TROUBLE IN PARADISE for Vinci! The fans fire up, Jey dodges Ludwig and SPEARS!! Jey goes up, USO SPLASH!! Cover, Jey wins!

Winner: Jey Uso, by pinfall

As if Gunther wasn’t disappointed in his men before, they just got beat by Main Event Jey and Kofi in a skinny-fat Santa costume! But the WWE Universe is bouncing with Jey, will 2024 be the Year of YEET?

 

The Judgment Day regroups.

Priest is laughing, and the others can’t help but grin. JD actually lost to Truth. Dom says it could be worse. Remember when Orton RKO’d him off the cage? Or when Priest had JD by the neck and pinned him to the wall? Rhea says enough. When one of them loses, it reflects badly on them all. Priest says yeah, that makes sense. But tonight, the stipulation was clear. JD lost, he’s out of the group! What? That wasn’t a real stipulation! Truth can’t just make matches! Oh, so it’s JD who does? No… Priest dares JD to say what he wants to say. JD says he meant nothing by it, he just doesn’t want to be kicked out of the group.

Rhea tells Priest that’s enough, and Priest says fine. JD is obviously still in the group. For now. Rhea says let’s get serious. They need to make an example out of those who think they can step to Judgment Day. Rhea talked with Pearce, and if Ivy wants her match, she’ll get it. It’ll be for the Women’s World Championship even, at Day One! Rhea will deal with Ivy, so tonight, it’s about the boys. Finn says no worries, he and Damian will deal with the Creed Brothers, and show them why the Judgment Day are the Undisputed Tag Team Champions! Priest & Finn head out, but Rhea makes JD stay back here. Ow, he still has splinters in his back, y’know…

 

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships: Finn Balor & Damian Priest w/ Rhea Ripley VS The Creed Brothers!

The Prince & Punisher have the gold, but Julius & Brutus have been like diamonds ever since coming to the WWE! Will the Creed Brothers become not just undisputed but Triple Crown Tag Team Champions for the holidays? Or will the only ones celebrating be the Judgment Day?

The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who has the best Christmas gifts of all!

The teams sort out and Julius starts with Finn. They tie up, go around, and Julius waistlocks to SLAM Finn! Finn gets up fast, and he resets with Julius. Julius waistlocks again, for another SLAM! Finn moves, Julius facelocks and they gator roll into ropes. The ref counts, Julius lets off and Finn is frustrated already. Finn and Priest talk then Finn goes back to Julius. Finn kicks and rocks Julius, whips, but fans chant “Let’s Go, Mami!” Rhea says kiss her butt, but Finn whips. Julius reverses to hip toss Finn down! The fans fire up, Priest runs in but into an arm-drag! And a DROPKICK for Finn! Brutus clotheslines Priest out!

Rhea is furious while Finn and Priest regroup. The Creeds dare them to come back, but Raw goes to break.

Raw returns, and Rhea complains as Julius RAMS Finn in the corner! Julius digs his shoulder in, but lets off at 4. Fireman’s carry takeover, then tag to Brutus. Feed to Brutus’ fireman’s carry takeover, and Rhea is even more frustrated. Brutus whips Finn back into the corner, then the Creeds DOUBLE fireman’s carry takeover! Finn kicks Brutus, fires body shots and CHOPS! Finn whips, Brutus reverses and Finn hits buckles hard! Brutus storms up to KNEE Finn low, then tags Julius. The Creeds KNEE Finn back and forth between them! Then they DOUBLE GUTBUSTER! Rhea is furious but Julius stares Priest down.

Julius drags Finn up, Finn powers out and Priest tags in. Julius ducks the lariat but Priest dumps him out! Then Priest LARIATS Julius down! Fans boo but Rhea taunts Julius. Priest whips Julius into the steel steps! Even Rhea is impressed. Priest gets Julius up and ROCKS him! Priest puts Julius in, storms up on him, and brings him over. Tag to Finn, they mug Julius, and Finn ROCKS Julius. Finn bumps Julius off buckles, RAMS into him again and again, then CHOPS! Finn whips corner to corner, runs in but Julius BOOTS him down! Julius crawls, but Finn anchors a foot! Julius hops, BOOTS Finn away, hot tag to Brutus!

Brutus rallies on Finn< CLUBS Priest, then CLOBBERS Finn! Brutus trips Finn, BRUTUS SMASH! The fans fire up, Brutus hauls Finn up, GUTWRENCH SUPLEX! Finn goes to a corner, Brutus bear crawls then runs in to SPLASH! And then torture rack! RACK SLAM! Cover, TWO! Brutus snarls, Rhea tells Finn to get up, but Finn goes to ropes. Brutus deadlifts Finn but Priest tags in! Priest KICKS Brutus and Finn TOSSES Brutus out! Priest then runs in around the way to POUNCE Brutus up and over the desk! Fans boo but Priest is all fired up as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns once again and Priest throws forearms with Brutus. The fans cheer Brutus and boo Priest as they go back and forth. Priest gets the edge, which Rhea likes! Priest CLUBS Brutus down, fans boo, but Priest lines up a shot. Brutus turns heel kick into a lift! Priest fights with forearms but Brutus just powers up again! BIG back suplex! Both men are down but crawling for their corners! Hot tags to Finn and Julius! Julius rallies on Finn with big forearms! And an OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Kip up, and OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY for Priest! Another kip up, and another OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY for Finn!

Julius brings the straps down, and fans fire up for the STANDING SHOOTING STAR! Cover, TWO! Finn is still in this but Ivy feels how close Julius was! Julius hoists Finn up with an Electric Chair Lift, and Brutus climbs a corner! Priest rushes over to SHOVE Brutus down! Finn sunset flips Julius, TWO! Julius gets up, ducks Finn and DECKS Priest! But then DOUBLE LARIATS take Finn and Julius down! So Rhea CLUBS Ivy! Rhea Electric Chair Lifts Ivy, but Ivy slips free to turn that around on Rhea! Rhea panics as Ivy gives her the ELECTRIC CHAIR SLAM!! And then Julius CLUBS Finn! Electric Chair, tag to Brutus!

Brutus goes up, and BRUTUS BALL comes down!! Cover, PRIEST BREAKS IT! Julius tags in, but Priest choke grips! Julius fights, Priest powers him up, but Julius flips free of South of Heaven! And SHOTGUNS Priest out! Julius kips up, goes up and up, then SUPER CANNONBALLS Priest!! Finn has Brutus, though, and hits a SLINGBLADE! And then a SHOTGUN into buckles! Brutus flops into the drop zone, Finn hurries up top! But Julius springs right up! Priest tags in first and he gets Julius in his own Electric Chair! Finn adjusts, but Brutus trips him! Julius slips down, turns things back around, BRUTUS BALL for Priest!!! Cover, but Finn COUP DE GRACES it apart!!!

The fans are thunderous as all four men are down! Finn goes to ropes, Brutus runs in and CLOBBERS him out of the ring! Julius stands, Priest choke grips! SOUTH OF HEAVEN!!! But he can’t make the cover! Priest crawls, JUDGMENT DAY WINS!

Winners: Finn Balor & Damian Priest, by pinfall (still Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions)

Julius kids out at 3.001, but it wasn’t fast enough! The Prince & Punisher put the Creeds down just long enough to survive with the gold, but how much longer can they keep this up? Will it only be a matter of time before someone ends their reign of terror?


My Thoughts:

An awesome Raw, and it was basically a go-home to the holidays, but also the Day One Raw combo show. Guess not even HHH wants that overly specific branding to go to waste. But we’re getting a borderline PPV/PLE level show with it all the same. Great promo from Becky and Nia to set their match up, but also plugging that Nia is in the Rumble. Great promo from Rollins and McIntyre to hype up their title match, and putting Rollins even more on the defense as he now might have a (kayfabe) bad arm to go with his (mostly kayfabe?) bad back. But given both Heels stood tall, I would think Mr. & Mrs. Monday Night Rollins win out.

Great story time promo from Nakamura that then turned into a brawl with Cody. Was kinda hoping Nakamura would top it off with “C’MON~!” but no, that is more a Face Nakamura thing. But I hope that they up the ante in the Cody VS Nakamura 1v1 rematch that of course Cody wins cleanly to have momentum going into the Royal Rumble. Great stuff with Kofi Klaus all night, especially with how comically shiny his butt was so you could see it when he twerks. Great use of Kofi Klaus to segue into other stories, too, such as with Imperium. Imperium beating Kofi up and then Jey makes the save to get a great win off Ludwig was good, maybe Jey finds his way to the Intercontinental Championship.

Speaking of which, what an awesome, almost PPV worthy title match between Gunther and Miz. Miz’s matches with Gunther have seriously made me go, “Why didn’t Miz do stuff like this before?” Miz’s new levels of athletic moves, technical moves and overall scrappy nature have been great, but it also does serve to make Gunther feel that much more powerful. And Bronson Reed wanting in on this future Intercontinental Championship #1 contender thing is also great, we need to see Gunther VS Bronson at some point, so why not with the next challenge? But now that Miz is done with the midcard title, not sure what he’ll do. He’s on good terms with DIY, but if DIY is to add a third man, it should be Lumis, not Miz.

Great Women’s Tag title match and I am genuinely yet pleasantly surprised Kayden & Katana won. I thought Fyre & Dawn were going to get the titles off Chelsea & Piper, but as Fyre & Dawn make better Heels than Faces because they are spooky scary, it makes sense we get Face tag champs now. This is great for Kayden & Katana, and hopefully they’ll be facing teams from all brands, not just here on Raw. Nox & Natty already had a shot, I feel like Shayna & Zoey are gonna win and be Raw’s next contenders. Fyre & Dawn or Kabuki Warriors will be from SmackDown, not sure if HHHBK want Meta Four’s Lash & Jakara to try while still on NXT.

And of course, awesome stuff from Judgment Day all night. That opening promo segment to lead into the Street Fight was hilarious stuff, because Truth is nothing less. Great Street Fight with Truth getting that win, and great bit of Judgment Day teasing JD about that Loser Leaves stipulation. Great tie in with Diamond Mine and Alpha Academy having their promo. Really good match from Tozawa and Ivar but of course Ivar wins out. And awesome main event for the tag titles. Ivy got to throw Rhea down, and the Creeds almost get Judgment Day. That 3.001 kickout was a great touch, because it shows how closer the Creeds are, but they’re just not there yet. Who knows who gets these belts off Judgment Day, but these matches are only gonna get better from here.

My Score: 8.9/10

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Coverage

Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (5/5/25)

Penta wants payback!

Published

on

Cero Miedo on Cinco de Mayo!

Penta made sure Judgment Day didn’t win the WWE World Tag Team Championships, and now he’ll make JD McDonagh pay for the WrestleMania screwjob!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • PENTA VS JD McDonagh w/ The Judgment Day; Penta wins.
  • Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS Sheamus; Sheamus wins.
  • Iyo Sky VS Roxanne Perez; Iyo wins.
  • Rusev VS Otis w/ Akira Tozawa & Maxxine Dupri; Rusev wins.
  • WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Jey Uso VS Seth Rollins w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker; Rollins wins by disqualification, Jey retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Jey Uso is in the concourse.

The fans are all fired up as the WWE World Heavyweight Champion makes his way out into the crowd! Omaha, Nebraska all YEET along, and even Pat McAfee does, no concern for what Gunther might think. Jey high-fives fans on his way to the ground level, high-fives some more fans on the way to ringside, and Jey daps it up with Pat & Cole. Jey then goes to the ring, and the fans continue to bounce while singing along with Day One Ish! Jey then gets a mic while the fans cheer. Omaha even says, “One More Time! One More Time!” Jey thinks about it, and he figures why not! YEET! Jey and the fans bounce again, then Jey goes back to the mic.

Jey says, “The World Heavyweight Champion, Main Event Jey Uso, is now in your citaaay~!” The fans cheer, and Jey says look. He’s here. He knows Logan Paul’s here. So let’s just stand on business tonight! Where you at, Logan!? But instead, “Ladies and gentlemen…” The Wise Man walks out on stage! The fans boo as Paul Heyman continues his introduction, and he says he cam here tonight not to disrespect the World Heavyweight Champion, Main Event Jey Uso. But he dragged himself all the way to Omaha, Nebraska because he wanted to say something straight to the face of the World Heavyweight Champion, Main Event Jey Uso.

Jey tells OG Heyman, “You got a lotta balls stepping to me after what you just did to my family.” Heyman says wow, Jey is going to lecture Heyman about betraying their Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns? Jey says yeah, he’ll talk to Heyman. Day one, Jey saw past him. He warned Roman about him, and he warned CM Punk about him! Well, a shame that no one warned Heyman. Warned him about his best friend, his BFF, his brother in arms, CM Punk. And while he’s at it, keep your damn boos to yourselves while he’s on the mic! Not one of these fans, or Jey, had to live through what Heyman did.

Heyman’s best friend, CM Punk, put him in a position that 100% absolutely guaranteed it would sabotage him! The fans chant for Punk and Heyman mocks them for it. “They chant his name because they don’t know what’s in the dark heart of that man.” Punk put Heyman in a guaranteed lose-lose situation with Roman Reigns. And let’s talk about Roman Reigns for a minute! The fans chant for “O T C!” and Heyman sighs. Heyman says he had a dream with his best friend, CM Punk, while Roman was still playing high school football. Long before Roman thought about following in his father’s footsteps into pro-wrestling.

And while Heyman helped Punk overcome adversity, what’d Roman think he was going to do? Sell him out to Punk? Why? After Heyman built the Bloodline for five years, why would he do that?! The fans boo more but Heyman sighs again. Heyman found a “stray big dog on the island of irrelevancy, and I turned him into the Tribal Chief and the ruler of the WWE Universe. We were the Undisputed WWE Champion for 1,316 days! And I’m not the one that blew it by getting beat by Cody Rhodes after being distracted by Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40! HE lost the title! HE lost the title that I spent five years of my life building him up as the champion!

And then what’d he do? He disappeared. He went back to being a big dog licking his big wounds, and left me in the hands of Solo, and Jacob Fatu and those Tongans, who put me through a table at Madison Square Garden and almost ended MY 40 year career. And he didn’t come back toa venge me, he came back to get his ula fala back! But I betrayed Roman Reigns, right? I betrayed Roman Reigns, who couldn’t handle the fact that I just wanted to help out my best friend live out his dream! No, it’s always Paul Heyman! I’m always the liar! I’m always at fault! I’m the betrayer, I’m the double crosser, I’m always the freakin’ scumbag in this situation! NOT THIS TIME! I’M RIGHT! I’M RIGHT! I’M IN THE RIGHT! And you blame me?! Screw you!! And screw each and every one of you for booing me!”

The fans boo more but Jey isn’t sure what to think. The fans chant “You Suck! You Suck!” and call Heyman an a-hole, but Jey takes a moment. Jey asks if Heyman is okay. In fact, is Heyman done? Jey has another question: What does this have to do with Jey? Heyman smirks and says that he does owe an apology. It has nothing to do with Jey. Not that part. He didn’t come out here to talk Roman and Punk. Here is the thing Heyman did come out here to talk with Jey. See, Jey won that title because he wanted that title> But that title is all about power and control. And honestly, Jey doesn’t know how to wield that. Jey doesn’t understand that!

Jey thinks coming out here to YEET with the audience and putting on the best in-ring performance is all it takes. But that’s not what this title is about. So while Jey needs in his heart and wants to be a champion… Seth Rollins has to be a champion. Rollins has to have that power, that control, and Bron Breakker… Well, that is just stage one of the plan. Stage two is the World Heavyweight Championship. But Heyman is out here tonight to do Jey a favor. And we all know how well Heyman’s favors work out> Jey gets to sign his own death warrant. Jey gets to chose the night he loses the World Heavyweight Championship.

Because Seth Rollins hereby challenges Jey to the World Heavyweight Championship! Rollins pinned Roman Reigns at WrestleMania, Rollins deserves to be #1 contender! Jey gets to pick the time and the place, because Rollins will fight Jey for that title any time, and any place. Heyman drops his mic then takes his leave. Jey tells Heyman to hold on, OG. Omaha, can you help him out? Jey asks if Heyman just said “any time,” and “any place,” “any where,” for the world title, against Seth Freakin’ Rollins? Then it’s on TONIGHT! FOUR LETTERS! ONE WORD! UH, UH… YEET!!

Jey had Logan Paul on his mind, but now he is daring the Visionary to put up or shut up! Will Jey turn the tables on Rollins? Or is Jey playing into Rollins’ hand?

 

Heyman returns backstage.

He finds Rollins & Bron, and Heyman smiles. Heyman says, “He fell for it> I cannot believe he fell for it! He wants to do the match tonight! You were so right!” Rollins asks you know what he loves. He loves to say< “I told you so.” And he tells Heyman, “I told you so.” Heyman says that is true. Bron says Seth Freakin’ Rollins, World Heavyweight Champion… Heyman asks if Bron understands what is going on. Roman Reigns prepared Seth Rollins at Mania, and Rollins pinned the biggest star in the main event. CM Punk prepared with unbridled passion for Rollins at Mania, and Rollins not only beat Roman & Punk, Roman & Punk lost to Rollins in the main event.

Jey Uso is a great champion, don’t take that away from him. He made Gunther tap out! Gunther! Jey is no easy day in the park. But Jey wasn’t focused on Rollins, he was distracted by Logan Paul! And now he has no time to prepare for Rollins. But Rollins is fully focused on Jey because there’s no one left. Rollins is a sniper, and he has Jey in his sights. And tonight, we get handed the keys to the kingdom when the ref hands that World Heavyweight Championship to Seth Freakin’ Rollins…! Bron can see the vision now, but will we all see Rollins burning down the YEET Era?

 

PENTA VS JD McDonagh w/ The Judgment Day!

The Intercontinental Championship Fatal 4 Way at WrestleMania only went well for “Dirty Dom” because he had an Irish Ace up his sleeve! JD is back, but will Penta make him pay for the part he played? Or will The Judgment Day be able to screw Penta over again?

Raw returns and JD is in the ring. The bell rings, JD and Penta circle while Carlito & Finn Balor watch from ringside. The fans rally for #CeroMiedo as Penta throws it up. But JD kicks low! JD headlocks for the takeover, but Penta headscissors. JD kips free, arm-drags and has the armlock. Penta headscissors again, JD kips free, and then he waistlocks. Penta ELBOWS free, runs, but JD drop toeholds! Penta avoids the basement dropkick, but JD avoids the Penalty Kick to roll Penta up! TWO and JD returns. Penta again avoids a kick but the STANDING MOONSAULT hits! Cover, TWO! Finn argues the count but JD CLUBS Penta.

JD stands Penta up to bump him off buckles, then he CHOPS! Penta CHOPS JD in return! And CHOPS again! Penta runs up to KICK JD’s leg out! The fans cheer while JD hobbles away. Penta CHOPS again, then KICKS the leg out again! The fans fire up with Penta while JD goes to another corner. Penta storms up, but JD puts him in the corner, only for Penta to dodges and CHOP! JD sputters, Penta swaggers, and Penta KICKS the legs out! Cover, TWO! Finn wants a timeout but there’s no such thing here. Penta drags JD up, whips him to a corner, but JD BOOTS in return! JD ELBOWS Penta down, then drags him up to bring him around.

Penta blocks the buckle bump, GAMANGIRIS, then CHOPS! JD leans back, Penta climbs, but JD SLAPS him! And SLAPS! JD shoves Penta down, kicks him, then goes to the apron. Penta blocks the boot, then ENZIGIRIS in return! The fans fire up, but Penta tells Finn to stay back. Finn says he’s just standing nearby. JD fireman’s carries Penta to APRON DEATH VALLEY! JD is in control and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and JD has Penta up top. JD pulls Penta into the Tree of Woe, then runs corner to corner, but Penta sits up! JD slides into the POST! Penta is free of the Tree, and then he runs to handstand and SWINGING DROPKICK! JD gets feet right to the face and Penta covers, TWO! JD stays in this but the fans rally behind Penta. Penta fires up, and he counter punches JD! Penta bobs ‘n’ weaves to CHOP, then ROCK JD! Penta fires forearm after forearm, whips, but JD reverses. Penta KICKS in return! Penta runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, SLING-DOG! Cover, TWO! Penta hurries to stand JD back up and JAB!

Penta puts JD against the ropes to CHOP! The fans fire up and Penta whips. Penta scoops JD to BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! JD stays in this but Penta fires himself back up! The fans fire up but Finn distracts on the apron! That lets Carlito pull no Penta’s mask! Penta breaks free to GAMANGIRI! JD runs up but Penta TOSSES him out! Penta climbs, the fans fire up, “CERO! MIEDO!” SUPER CROSSBODY! Down go JD and Carlito! Finn freaks out but the fans rally up behind Penta. Penta puts JD in, but Finn creeps up! JD distracts the ref and Finn YANKS Penta down! Finn puts Penta in, but the ref DOES see it!

The fans fire up as the ref now EJECTS Finn & Carlito! The fans cheer whiel Finn & Carlito freak otu! They apologize, but it’s too late for that! Penta goes up a corner, but CHAD GABLE is here?! Gable grabs at Penta, Penta kicks him away, then Penta leaps over JD! Penta dodges JD to then FLY out onto Gable! Penta drags JD up but JD hits a JAWBREAKER! JD goes up, up, MOONSAULT FLOPS as Penta moves! MEXICAN DESTROYER!! Cover, Penta wins!!

Winner: Penta, by pinfall

Despite all the extra help on the outside, JD could not win! Cero Miedo is victorious, but when will Penta be Numero Uno?

 

Adam Pearce talks with Grayson Waller.

The Raw General Manager says the Aussie Icon wanted a match, so here’s his match. Yeah, but he didn’t know it’d be against him! Austin Theory finds Waller and Waller says good timing. Waller was talking with Pearce about how Waller’s been a bad friend to Theory, wanting a singles match for himself, but that’s selfish. Waller wants Theory to have the match, it’d be great for him. Okay, Theory is down! Pearce asks if Waller is serious, and Waller says he is! Well, if that’s what they want, fine. Theory has a singles match now. It’s official! Great! But who is it against? Uh, well, it’ll be better as a surprise, but they better get to the ring. #AllDay, remember?

Waller hurries away and Theory wonders what kind of surprise it could be. Well, everyone is wondering that. Who will Waller pass over to Theory to avoid getting brutalized?

 

Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS ???

Raw returns as A-Town Down Under is already in the ring. And who is Theory’s opponent that was meant for Waller? It’s SHEAMUS! Monday Night Raw is once again Fight Night Raw as the Celtic Warrior is back again! Will Theory regret taking this banger?

The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally, the two tie up, and Theory waistlocks. Sheamus throws Theory away and the fans cheer him on. Theory brushes that off, resets with Sheamus, and then Theory kicks low! Theory throws hands, puts Sheamus in a corner, but Sheamus ROCKS Theory! Sheamus UPPERCUTS, but Theory ELBOWS back! Sheamus fires a BODY SHOT, an UPPERCUT, then whips. Theory goes up and over, rolls, comes back, and he DROPKICKS Sheamus down! Waller says that’s his best friend right there! But then Sheamus CLOBBERS Theory! The fans fire up, and Sheamus storms up on Theory.

Theory ELBOWS Sheamus, whips, but Sheamus reverses to scoop, IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! The fans fire up as Sheamus says one more time! IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! Sheamus goes for the legs but Theory kicks at him! Theory reels Sheamus in and throws some hands, but Sheamus stomps Theory down! The fans cheer as Sheamus turns Theory over for a CLOVERLEAF! Theory crawls and has the ROPEBREAK! Sheamus lets go, Theory rolls out, and Waller checks on his friend. But Sheamus climbs up! SUPER FLYING LARIAT! Down goes Theory! The fans fire up, and Sheamus finds a fellow Ginger! The fans cheer more while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and the fans rally behind Sheamus. Theory CLUBS Sheamus and throws hands, but Sheamus shoves him and eggs him on! Theory BOOTS Sheamus, but Sheamus just eggs him on more! Theory runs, but into a scoop and POWERSLAM! Theory flounders to the apron and Sheamus storms his way over. Sheamus stands Theory up and Waller stays back, but Theory HOTSHOTS free! Theory slingshots and somersaults, but into the KNEE CAPPER! Cover, TWO! Theory survives but Sheamus stays cool. The fans rally while Sheamus catches his breath, and then Sheamus goes to the apron.

Sheamus glares at Waller, Waller backs away, and Sheamus climbs. Theory avoids the flying lariat but Sheamus comes back! Theory dodges and Sheamus POSTS himself! Theory SUPERKICKS, somersaults, and BLOCKBUSTERS! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up for Sheamus while Theory goes back outside. Theory checks his jaw, shakes out the stars, and Theory climbs. Sheamus ROCKS Theory, fires body shots, and Sheamus climbs. Sheamus brings Theory up, tucks him in, WHITE NOISE! The fans fire up and Sheamus smiles as he’s clearly enjoying this. “This is Awesome!” as Sheamus rises up again.

Waller coaches Theory as Theory crawls to the apron, but Theory asks why Waller did this to him! Sheamus stands Theory up, and the fans cheer on the BEATS OF THE BODHRAIN! The fans count along, Sheamus goes past TEN, and Theory slumps down at FOURTEEN! The fans fire up, Waller is worried, and Sheamus goes to a corner. The fans cheer Sheamus on, and we get a BROGUE! Cover, Sheamus wins!

Winner: Sheamus, by pinfall

The Celtic Warrior made quite the return, and Theory is surely regretting subbing in for Waller. Will A-Town Down Under have a meltdown because of this?

 

BREAKING NEWS for Backlash!

Penta was so close at WrestleMania, and he got through JD here tonight, so now he will be challenging Dominik Mysterio for the Intercontinental Championship!

Judgment Day regroups in the clubhouse.

They’ve clearly heard the news, and JD storms in asking what happened out there. The ref kicked them out? And why did Gable go out there? That wasn’t on any of them. JD says then Penta and Gable need to get it ASAP! Dom says Penta will be handled at Backlash, but as for Gable- Wait, who is this walking into the clubhouse? It’s A J STYLES! The Phenomenal One nods to Finn, Finn nods back, but Carlito asks how Styles even got here. Oh, R-Truth told him where they were. Plus, it wasn’t that hard to find. But he’s not here to fight or cause trouble. Styles just wants to give a friendly warning. Whether it is Dom or Penta, Styles is after that title.

Dom says whatever, old man. Wow, oh, so hurtful. But Styles tells Dom that it doesn’t matter who wins, he want the title! And then he’ll beat Dom up either way. Dom says this is crazy. Who knew being a champion was this hard. Penta, Styles, his hands are full! Wait, Finn has history with Styles. Can’t he handle Styles for Dom? Oh, what? Now Finn cleans up Dom’s messes for him? Nah, just messing with you. Finn’s got this. They fist bump, but will Judgment Day (not) hold it together without Liv around?

 

Chad Gable is backstage.

“Freakin’ luchadores. Bloody my nose?” The New Day walk over and Gable says it is not the time for this. Kofi Kingston says hold on, hold on, hear them out. They saw what went down, and that was awful. And they know that it is around time American Made got some respect around here. Xavier Woods says the War Raiders are already talking about getting a rematch, but New Day beat the bejeezus out of them, so that’s a no. What the New Day thinks is that opportunities need to start coming back to American Made. Gable likes what they’re saying. Give him some more ideas like that. But then Becky Lynch pushes through.

Woods tells The Man it was messed up how Lyra Valkyria treated her. Becky thanks him for that. Becky heads to the ring, what will she have to say here in Omaha?

 

Becky Lynch goes to the ring.

Omaha is torn as The Man has a mic in her hand. Becky says The Man has come around to Omaha, and she’s baffled by the bit of boos and “You Suck” chants she’s getting. Wait, wait, wait. She is very confused. The fans are treating her like she’s the bad guy here? No, she’s the victim! Okay, okay, she took out Bayley, fine. But when she came out to WrestleMania, everyone lost their minds! A woman in the crowd cried tears of joy! No one asked where Bayley was, because no one cared, Bayley is garbage! Becky took out the garbage! The fans were happy the garbage was taken out, but then Becky took credit for it and everyone got mad she took out the garbage!

That’s not what they should say when someone takes out the garbage! You tell that person, “Thank you for taking out the garbage! And what’s more than that, I also took out the recycling! Because that’s what Lyra is! She’s less offensive than garbage, but she’s still garbage! And what is garbage about her is her attitude. She doesn’t have a dream if it isn’t for me! She doesn’t have a title if it isn’t for me! She doesn’t make history if it isn’t for me! She doesn’t even have a freakin’ fiancé if it isn’t for me!!” The fans boo, but Becky says she still gets all this disrespect! But wait, here comes Lyra! Becky says this is what she’s talking about!

Lyra has a mic and asks, “Did you actually just call me recycling? You’re the Queen of Recycling! You’ve been recycling the same moves and the same tired old act for years! But that’s fine, Becky, you do you, I don’t care. What I have a problem with is you acting like you had anything to do with my success. The one thing I want to drive into your skull more than my foot is that you didn’t make me!” The fans cheer, and Lyra says she’ll catch Becky up. Becky went on holiday, and everyone here got better. Becky went on holiday, and Lyra made history of her own. Lyra holds up the Women’s Intercontinental Championship and the fans cheer.

Lyra says, “Oh, but you’re what this championship needs, right? That’s what you said. That’s rich, considering I’ve defended it more times than days you’ve shown up to work this year.” The fans cheer that zinger! Becky paces but Lyra says she sees it now. Lyra sees it so clearly. Becky shattered glass ceilings and Lyra is forever grateful. But Becky left all that broken glass on the ground and the rest of the Women’s Division were supposed to just follow behind because Becky never had any intention of taken anyone to the top with her. Becky says okay, okay, Lyra is right. Becky was gone, and everyone had the best year of their careers.

But that’s only because they didn’t have Becky around to compare themselves to! The fans boo but Becky says no, she didn’t help anybody because she doesn’t like anybody. She didn’t help anyone because her job isn’t to help anyone, it is to beat everyone! And Becky is very, very good at her job! She’s the greatest to ever do it! That’s not just her saying it, SPORTS ILLUSTRATED said so! The fans do cheer that, but Becky tells Lyra it doesn’t matter how great she thinks she is or how great she’ll become, because she will always be the moment after Becky! Wow… Sports Illustrated, huh? Lyra is wrong, she’ll take it back. Please, continue listing the achievements.

What can we say? Becky’s first SmackDown Women’s Champion, first woman to win the main event of WrestleMania, and the first Women’s Intercontin- NO! Wait! That’s Lyra! Becky frowns while the fans cheer, and Lyra says Becky must hate it. Becky must hate that this is Lyra’s first ever. But get used to being second. Becky throws hands but Lyra hits back! The fans fire up as these two brawl, and then Lyra hits a SPINEBUSTER! Becky gets up, Lyra is right on her, but Becky puts her in ta corner! Lyra dodges, RAMS into Becky again and again, then things spill outside! Lyra sends Becky into barriers! And apron! And barriers again!

The fans fire up but refs rush out! Omaha says, “LET THEM FIGHT!” but Becky gets free and throws off her jacket! Becky then gets in the ring and tells everyone, “You see this disrespect?! You see this disrespect?!” Lyra gets free and is back for more! The fans fire up, Becky clinches, but Lyra slips free to fireman’s carry! NIGHTWING DRIVER!! Lyra stands tall over Becky, title in her hand! Will this be the scene this Saturday for Backlash?

 

Iyo Sky VS Roxanne Perez!

The Genius Women’s World Champion won big last week on NXT alongside Jordynne Grace, but now The Prodigy is back in hopes of returning the favor. Will Roxie prove she’s ready for Raw? Or will Iyo show being a prodigy only gets you so far?

Raw returns and Iyo makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally. The two circle, tie up, and Iyo pushes Roxie back. Roxie puts Iyo on ropes, Iyo turns that around, and the two go around. Iyo clinches, Roxie wrenches, but Iyo headlocks. Roxie powers up and out but Iyo runs her over! Things speed up, Iyo ducks ‘n’ dodges, then whips Roxie. Roxie cartwheels over the dropdown, then SLAPS Iyo! Roxie takes a bow, then dodges Iyo to bail out. Iyo pursues, they go back in the ring, and Roxie dodges again to roll back! Roxie RANAS, but Iyo handsprings through! The fans fire up, things keep moving, and Iyo handsprings again!

Roxie dodges, but Iyo comes back to SHOTGUN! Roxie tumbles out, Iyo builds speed, but Roxie is back to dropkick the legs out! Iyo writhes, but Roxie grabs the leg to stomp it and SMASH it! Roxie wants both legs but Iyo BOOTS her away. Iyo runs, but Roxie puts her on the apron. Iyo ROCKS Roxie first, but Roxie grabs a leg! DRAPING DRAGON SCREW! Roxie builds speed and DIVES! Down goes Iyo at the ramp! The fans boo but Roxie puts Iyo in. Iyo gets moving and she DIVES! Direct hit on Roxie at the ramp! The fans fire up with Iyo, and Iyo hurries to put Roxie in. Iyo aims, springboards, but Roxie SLAPS her down!

Roxie grabs Iyo’s leg, drags her to a corner, and STOMPS the knee against the crossbar! Iyo clutches her leg and slumps to the floor while Roxie leaves her behind, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns and Iyo has Roxie up top, for a SUPER ARM-DRAG! The fans fire up while both women are down! Iyo slaps her leg into working, then she crawls her way over. Omaha is behind Iyo as she ROCKS Roxie! Roxie ROCKS Iyo, but Iyo ROCKS Roxie back! The forearms keep going, Iyo fires a flurry, then she winds up to SHOTEI! Roxie staggers, runs up, but Iyo FLAPJACKS! And BUZZSAWS! Cover, TWO! Roxie toughs it out but Iyo goes to the apron. Roxie runs up, but Iyo blocks her punch to HOTSHOT the arm! Iyo climbs, Roxie stands, MISSILE DROPKICK! The fans fire up while Roxie flounders, and Iyo kips up!

Iyo goes wild, so do the fans, and all aboard the SHIN- NO, Iyo’s leg bothers her! Roxie runs up, wheelbarrows, but Iyo rolls through to STOMP 182! Cover, TWO! Roxie survives and Iyo is frustrated! The fans rally, Iyo waistlocks, and she deadlift GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridge, but then a roll through! Roxie fights the second try to SAIDO! Iyo and Roxie stand, Roxie runs up, but Iyo wrenches and hooks her up! TIGER BACKBREAKER! Iyo says time to end this! Iyo CHOPS Roxie, hobbles to a corner, and climbs up! OVER THE MOONSAULT but Roxie moves! Iyo lands out but that jams up the leg! Roxie runs to SPIKE RANA!

Roxie roars, runs, and hits the HANDSPRING KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO!! Iyo survives the Guillotine Knee as taught to Roxie by Meiko Satomura, and Omaha rallies up more. Roxie fires hands, SOBATS, then runs to hop on! Iyo handsprings through, but Roxie blocks the kick! DRAGON SCREW! Roxie then has the arm, LA MAGISTROL BRIDGE! TWO!! Iyo bridges, TWO!! Roxie has the body scissors, O’Conner Roll, TWO! Iyo rolls Roxie up, TWO! Roxie has a lateral press, TWO! Iyo sunset flips! TWO! Roxie high stacks, TWO! Iyo sunset flips again, IYO WINS!!

Winner: Iyo Sky, by pinfall

Roxie is shocked! She tried to match speed with speed and move for move, but she just couldn’t keep up with the Genius! But then Roxie gets in Iyo’s face! Roxie offers a handshake? The fans aren’t so sure, but Iyo takes it. They both bow, and surprisingly, there is now respect here between them. But wait! GIULIA ATTACKS! It was all just so the Beautiful Madness could slip in! Roxie grins and they mug Iyo like they have before! Giulia ties up Iyo’s legs, has the arms, and sets Iyo up for a SUPERKICK and SURFBOARD STOMP!! Rhea Ripley is in Australia, she can’t save Iyo! Giulia sets Iyo up again, for another SUPERKICK and another SURFBOARD STOMP!!

Roxie and Giulia stand over Iyo, will these former NXT Women’s Champions soon run Monday Night Raw?

 

Rusev VS Otis w/ Akira Tozawa & Maxxine Dupri!

Bulgarian Brute no more, he has been REDEEMED! And now, he feels it is his divine appointment to “fix” all those on Raw who were once like him. Will that mean #TheDozer is going to go through baptism by fire? Or will he simply be crushed?

The bell rings and the fans rally as the two big men circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and they break. The fans rally more as the two tie up again. Another deadlock, but Rusev manages to power Oits bac. Otis powers Rusev back, the fans duel, and the big men break again. Rusev nods, perhaps liking what he is seeing already. They tie up again, and Rusev KNEES low, CLUBS Otis and fires hands in the corner! The ref counts, Rusev stomps a mudhole, but stops as the ref gets in there. Rusev storms up on Otis, stands him up, and whips him, only for Otis to reverses. Rusev returns to LARIAT! Otis stays up and shakes his head!

Rusev LARIATS, Otis stays up, so Rusev runs. Otis dodges with a roll! Otis then comes back and he LARIATS Rusev! Rusev stays up, but now Otis runs, and Otis LARIATS again! Rusev shoves Otis, Otis ducks ‘n’ dodges, but the WHEEL KICK comes outta nowhere! The fans are torn while Rusev stands tall, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns and Otis is down on the outside. Tozawa & Maxxine check Otis and coach him up, but Rusev storms outside. Rusev kicks at Otis, stands him up, but Otis EXPLODER Rusev over the desk! The fans fire up as Otis has more to give! Otis shoves the Hydration Station aside, then drags Rusev up to whip him hard into steel steps! Otis puts Rusev in the ring, but then drag shim out to fire clubbing arms! But then Rusev ducks, Otis’ arm hits POST! Rusev aims, but Otis ducks, so Rusev’s kick hits POST! Otis then CLOBBERS Rusev! Otis puts Rusev in the ring, storms in after him, and SPLASHES in the corner!

Rusev sputters and Otis runs up again! But Rusev MACHKA KICKS him down! Rusev roars and he shouts, “RUSEV! CRUSH~!” Stomp and ACCOLADE!! Otis endures, but he’s turning red! Otis shouts for Maxxine and Tozawa, but he TAPS! Rusev wins!

Winner: Rusev, by submission

Rusev continues to make Otis suffer by holding on, but Tozawa storms into the ring! Tozawa tells Rusev he can’t do that to his friend! They’re gonna fight right here and right now! The fans fire up as Tozawa rips his shirt away! Rusev says hold on now. Rusev did what he came here to do, and he spares Tozawa for tonight. But that’s just to lower Tozawa’s guard! Ruzev storms back in and GUT WRENCH POWERBOMBS Tozawa onto Otis!! The fans boo but Rusev shows no mercy! He POSTS Otis!! Then he drags Otis back in, and sends him into another POST! Otis falls out of the ring, Rusev goes out to drag him back in!

Rusev hits another MACHKA KICK!! And then he turns Otis back over, and he clamps the ACCOLADE back on!! The fans boo but that only makes Rusev want to do this more! Pearce, refs, and security rush out here! They tell Rusev to let go, but he waits until Otis is OUT! The fans boo, Natalya is here to console Maxxine, and Pearce reprimands Rusev. Will Rusev not care what he must do to “redeem” Monday Night Raw?

 

Raw returns and Adam Pearce is in the ring.

The General Manager hopes that they can get this show back on track. That said, please join him in welcoming to the ring… Pat McAfee! Omaha fires up as Pat hops off the desk, grabs a mic, and joins Pearce in the ring. Pearce also welcomes out Pat’s opponent for Backlash… DER RING GENERAL, GUNTHER! The fans are less excited as Gunther makes his way to the ring. Gunther and Pat keep their eyes on each other as Gunther fetches his own mic. Pearce wants to remind them that they’ve gone over this. They will NOT have what happened two weeks ago happen again. Get what you want out verbally, because Saturday, the time for talk is done.

Pearce says the floor is theirs, but keep it professional. Pearce then steps aside so Pat and Gunther can stare down. The fans cheer Pat on but Gunther says, “Well first of all… Do not worry. I’m not gonna do anything tonight, I’m not going to spoil that for myself. Because luckily for you, unlike you and your friend out there, I am professional.” The fans chant “You Tapped Out!” at Gunther, and he tells them to shut up! He’ll get back to that later, don’t you worry! Pat says he heard Gunther mentioned being professional. And Pat’s friend, Michael Cole, that is a walking, talking GOAT right there! The fans cheer that!

Pat tells Gunther, “For 28 YEARS, every single week of his life, except for three times, he has dedicated to traveling the world for this company. 28 years straight, 52 weeks a year, for this company!” The fans cheer that, too! Pat says Maggle has earned the right to have an opinion. And since that opinion pissed Gunther off so bad, Gunther flipped a switch and felt he had to attack a 60-year-old man, Pat will give Gunther an opinion of the man he’s standing in front of. Pat says it is apropos to be here in Omaha, Nebraska. When he thinks Nebraska, he thinks of the Cornhuskers! Pat shouts out Coach Rhule and his players in the crowd.

Pat says he can’t wait to watch the boys in the Fall rise to the top! And when Pat’s in Omaha, he also thinks of their steaks. Nobody beats this town’s meat! NOBODY! The fans chant “BEAT THE MEAT!” Pat says right across from this very arena is a baseball field that has hosted the NCAA World Series since 1950! The fans cheer that, and Pat says this city is a symbol of working hard and dreams coming true. And Pat feels “dreams” is a good word. They both have that in common. Pat might be from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the USA, and Gunther might be from Vienna, Austria, both men grew up with the same dream.

They both grew up wanting to be in this business, idolizing the superstars of yesterday, and spent hours and hours in front of TV watching pro-wrestling, thinking that is what they were put on this earth to do! The problem with Gunther is, he was at this for 20 years. He has been a champion for 80% of his WWE career. He’s jaded! This is no longer a dream but a job for Gunther. For Pat, every time he walks into an arena, he gets jacked up about life, baby! The fans cheer that! Pat says he thinks about 12 year old Pat, the kids out there in the crowd like him, dreaming in the upper rows to get in this ring and let a-holes like Gunther know that they don’t like what Gunther’s about.

And what Gunther’s about right now, as opposed to the Waltering around stage… Gunther doesn’t want it anymore. He’s too comfortable. It happened against Sami Zayn, it happened against Jey Uso, and it’ll happen with Pat. Pat will prove to Gunther and the fans that this Gunther… is SAWFT. The fans fire up for that! Gunther paces a moment, then he stares Pat down as he says, “Did you enjoy your little daughter’s birthday last week? Two years, right? It’s cute. I bet it was a very special day for you. Because for me, Saturday is a very special day, and you just got me into the right mood for it!

“Because it’s my first match since WrestleMania, and I’m going to show up sharp, I’m going to show up prepared, I’m going to show up more focused than every before. Don’t you worry that I’ll overlook you. Don’t worry that I’ll underestimate you. I promise you, you have my full and undivided attention. Because on Saturday, that bell is going to ring, and I’m going to beat you up! I’m going to MAUL you! I’m going to grab you by the head, and DRIVE it into this mat! I’m going to CHOKE YOU OUT until you drop like a wet towel! Tonight, by my grace, you are untouchable. But on Saturday, trust me when I say this! On Saturday, only the grace of GOD can lift my arms off your throat!”

Gunther shoves his mic into Pat, then he storms off. Der Ring General is ready to reload and unleash his full arsenal upon Pat, will Pat survive to even be part of next week’s show?

 

WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Jey Uso VS Seth Rollins w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker!

To what Pat McAfee just said, perhaps Gunther did underestimate Main Event Jey Uso, but Jey also managed to bring something out of himself that even he didn’t know was there. But that confidence was preyed upon to give The Visionary his shortcut back to this title. Will Rollins and his A-Team make the plan come together? Or will we bookend the show with some YEET?

Raw returns as Jey makes his entrance, and from the ramp this time. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is truly in control!

The bell rings and Jey’s first defense begins. The fans rally behind Jey while he and Rollins stare down. Omaha gets the “YEET! YEET! YEET!” going and Jey is fired up. Jey is already undoing his wrist tape, he wants to throw down! Rollins slowly steps forward, the two tie up, and Rollins waistlocks. Rollins headlocks, spins, hammerlocks, headlocks again and hits the takeover to ghost pin! TWO, and Rollins laughs at how close he had Jey. The fans duel with “YEET!” and “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Jey and Rollins circle, tie up, and Rollins headlocks again. Jey powers up and out, but Rollins runs him over! Cover, ONE!

Rollins sweeps the legs to cover, ONE! Jey kicks, Rollins blocks, and then Rollins ducks the Dragon Whip! Rollins lounges on the top rope and the fans boo. Jey is annoyed but he keeps his cool. Rollins swaggers up, but Jey UPPERCUTS him down! Jey just suckered Rollins! “YEET!” Rollins says okay, and he shoves Jey. Jey shoves back! Rollins shoves again, Jey shoves again, so Rollins CHOPS! Jey fires a haymaker, Rollins fires back, and the fans are torn! “YEET!” wins out but Rollins mule kicks low! Jey avoids the stomp, but Rollins kicks low again. Jey fights off the Pedigree, but Rollins bails out to avoid the superkick!

The fans are torn but Bron & Heyman walk over to check with Rollins. Rollins says it’s alright, Jey is good. Jey is champion for a reason. Rollins goes to the apron, has Bron relax, and then he steps inside. The fans rally behind Jey as Jey and Rollins circle. They feel things out, but then Rollins kicks low! Rollins CLUBS and stomps away on Jey, then stands him back up to bump him off buckles! Rollins stomps a mudhole in, digs his boot in, but the ref backs him off. Heyman sings along, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” and Rollins stalks Jey to the ropes. Rollins drags Jey up, “You think you’re on my level?” Rollins whips, Jey ducks ‘n’ dodges, and then UPPERCUTS!

Jey runs, Rollins blocks the kick, but the DRAGON WHIP hits! Jey runs and LARIATS Rollins up and out! Jey then DIVES, and Rollins is sent over the desk! The fans fire up while both men are down! Heyman & Bron are worried, but Raw goes to break.

Raw returns once more, and Rollins slithers into the ring. Rollins runs corner to corner at Jey, and Rollins forearm SMASHES! Jey falls to his knees but the fans still cheer him on. Rollins says the fans are just like Jey, they just don’t understand. Rollins brings Jey up, but Jey ROCKS Rollins! And ROCKS him again! And again! “YEET!” But Rollins kicks low! Rollins fires off in the corner, the ref counts, and Rollins keeps trying as the ref backs him off. The ref reprimands, but Rollins just goes back to Jey. Rollins puts Jey up top, CHOPS him, then climbs. The fans rally as Rollins brings Jey up, and Jey fires body shots!

Jey HEADBUTTS Rollins down and the fans cheer! Rollins stands, Jey leaps, but Rollins gets under! Jey keeps moving, ducks ‘n’ dodges, but then Rollins runs! DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! The fans fire up while both men are down again! “This is Awesome!” as Rollins and Jey go to opposite ends. Rollins storms up, but Jey counter punches again! “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Rollins wobbles, Jey pops, locks ‘n’ winds up to DECK Rollins! Then SAMOAN DROP! The fans fire up again as Jey shakes out the stars. “UCE! OH!” HIP ATTACK! Cover, TWO! Heyman is relieved and Jey grows frustrated.

Rollins slowly rises up, but Jey is there to fireman’s carry! Rollins fights the Samoan Drop and slips out of the ring. Jey pursues, they go around the way, and Rollins slides in. Jey drags Rollins back out, but Rollins BOOTS Jey into barriers! Rollins builds speed and he DIVES! Direct hit and Jey hits barriers! Rollins puts Jey in, goes to the apron, and springboards, into a SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO!! The antiair didn’t end this and the fans can’t believe it! The fans again declare, “This is Awesome!” as Jey and Rollins stir. Rollins rises, Jey aims from a corner, and Jey runs up, but into a KICK! Rollins fireman’s carries, then pops Jey around!

Rollins aims, runs up and BUCKLE BOMBS!! Jey falls, Rollins climbs, and the fans fire up! FROG SPLASH FLOPS as Jey dodges! Jey runs and SPEARS into a PEDIGREE!!! Cover, TWO!! Rollins is furious and Heyman is shocked, but Jey is showing that championship grit! Heyman coaches Rollins up while he goes to a corner. Rollins nods, he knows he has Jey in his crosshairs. Rollins runs back up, but Jey avoids the stomp again! SLEEPER!! Jey has Rollins like he has Gunther, but Rollins throws Jey away! Jey hurries to get moving! SPEAR!!! Cover, TWO!??! Jey is stunned and the fans are shocked, but Bron has a huge smile seeing Rollins’ own grit on display.

Omaha again declare “This is Awesome!” and Jey rises back up. Jey hobbles to a corner and climbs up. Rollins stirs, rises, and he anchors a foot! Jey tries to get free but Rollins CLUBS him! Rollins climbs up now, HAMMERS Jey, but Jey HEADBUTTS! And HEADBUTTS! “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Rollins falls back, but into the ref! Bron grabs at Jey! Jey BOOTS Bron off into the Hydration Station! But that lets Rollins get up and SUPER DUPER PLEX! Roll through and FALCON ARROW! Rollins aims from a corner now, and he CURB STOMPS!!! Cover, TWO!?!?! Jey survives and Omaha is thunderous! Bron, Heyman, Rollins, none of them know how this is possible!

Rollins goes to Bron, whispers something to him, but wait! SAMI ZAYN is here?!? Even after what happened last week!? Bron hurries to the ramp, ready to fight Sami. But wait, Sami LEAPS in from the crowd! The fans fire up as Sami fires hands on Bron! Sami POSTS Bron, then Jey SUPERKICKS Rollins! And a SPEAR!!! Jey hurries up top and Sami cheers him on! USO SPLASH!!! Cover, TWO?!?!?! HOW?!?! Omaha has no idea what to make of that, and neither does Sami! Sami coaches Jey, Heyman coaches Rollins, and the fans rally back up. But Bron SPEARS Sami!!! Bron then slithers away to hide while the fans boo!

Jey asks what happened to Sami and he goes outside to check. Heyman distracts the ref, Bron SPEARS Jey!!! The fans boo even more, and Bron drags Jey up to put him in the ring! CURB STOMP!!!! Rollins crawls to the cover, laughing all the way, but C M PUNK is here?!?! Omaha goes nuts seeing Punk back! Punk CHUCKS a chair at Bron’s face! Then he gets int he ring! Rollins and Punk brawl, there goes the title match!

Winner: Seth Rollins, by disqualification (Jey Uso retains the title)

Punk SMACKS Rollins with the chair, JAMS him up, then SMACKS him again! Bron slides in, but Punk SMACKS away on him! Rollins tries to get back in but Punk runs him off! The fans are thunderous for Punk as he and Sami stand tall! Jey gets back up, and clearly the battlelines have been drawn! Will Rollins’ vision for Monday Night Raw fall apart?


My Thoughts:

A great Monday Night Raw as the go-home to Backlash, but everything with the world title match was both great and curious. No Logan Paul here in Omaha is a mixed bag itself. From the story side, he should’ve, so he and Jey could’ve had a face-to-face. But as a person, I was glad we didn’t have to endure Logan being smug. And quite the audible bringing Heyman out to talk with Jey. Heyman’s passion was great, really adds some stuff to help us understand his side. And I like that they “suckered” Jey into this match. It was definitely an awesome match, even with the overbooking that eventually threw it out.

Sami and Punk showing up was all fine in story, but after what happened last week, I feel like Sami shouldn’t have come back so soon. But that aside, Jey, Sami and Punk make for a good unit to counter Rollins’ team. Though, Rollins will need another member who can wrestle since Heyman won’t be of any use. Here’s hoping it is Austin Theory given how Theory is upset with Waller after that switcheroo. Good return for Sheamus, though I feel like Sheamus has done more returns in the last 12 months than just about anyone ever. Here’s hoping Sheamus still gets in on the Intercontinental Championship story.

Speaking of, great match from Penta VS McDonagh, even with the overbooking. A bit surprising Penta overcame all that to win, but it works since now Dom and Penta are now set for an Intercontinental Championship. And there is room on the card as it doesn’t seem Jey VS Logan is happening for Backlash. Makes me wonder if they started us on a Jey VS Logan feud before they were really ready, as Backlash “isn’t big enough” for Logan’s “star power.” I like that Styles also got in on this, Styles VS Finn is going to be awesome, and can certainly set up the winner as the next challenger. It really depends on what happens with Dom VS Penta.

Gable getting involved as also good, given how he and Penta had their confrontation last week. New Day had a good promo with Gable to gas up American Made. That is to say, New Day is using American Made as a shield against The War Raiders, but it’ll only help Erik & Ivar earn their rematch. Great return match for Rusev with Otis looking strong even in defeat. Rusev doesn’t waste time teasing he’s a Tweener, he goes right to blindsiding Tozawa and beating Alpha Academy down. Not sure who is next for Rusev, as there aren’t as many Faces not really tied into anything on Raw. Maybe whatever WWE Draft we get moves Rusev to SmackDown, or at least moves some names from SmackDown and NXT to Raw so Rusev can face fresh meat.

Great promo from Becky and Lyra to help hype Becky VS Lyra. Good brawl, but now Lyra standing tall makes me think Lyra loses the title. Becky can start on some sort of second Grand Slam or something like that, but also she and Lyra will be 1-1 and the rematch for the Women’s Intercontinental title can be the tiebreaker at like MITB or SummerSlam. Iyo VS Roxie was a great match, but of course Giulia showed up. No reinforcements with Rhea promoting Crown Jewel: Perth, and sadly, Dakota Kai being hurt and now released, no Damage CTRL to help either. But the Heels did need a moment where they stood tall, and one of them could even get a world title shot.

And honestly, Pat and Gunther had an awesome promo to hype their match. Pat put over Maggle, he put over Nebraska, and quite perfectly framed this story as the hungry dreamer in Pat himself and the complacent veteran who has already done so much. Gunther’s response was also great, because now he’s angry enough to get that hunger and that fire back. I would think Gunther wins, as he needs the rebound from WrestleMania and Pat doesn’t really need much. But Pat can get a moral victory of sorts by lasting longer than Gunther or any of us expect. Pat can just keep getting up after every chop, have a false finish or two, but ultimately lose because his body can’t come through for his fighting spirit. Respect for Pat but momentum for Gunther, that’s the best outcome.

My Score: 8.9/10

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Mitchell’s NJPW Wrestling Dontaku Results & Report! (5/4/25)

It’s a Wrestling Dontaku Weekend finale!

Published

on

Who will stand atop the NJPW mountain?

The Goto Revolution finally leads NJPW, but will the Fierce Warrior be conquered by The United Empire as Callum Newman goes after the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

  • Kickoff – Ryusuke Taguchi & Katsuya Murashima VS Hitamaru Sasaki & Jet Wei; Taguchi & Murashima win.
  • Taiji Ishimori & Gedo VS MENTAI KID & Batten Burabura; Taiji & Gedo win.
  • YOSHI-HASHI & Master Wato VS Great-O-Khan & Jakob Austin Young; Hashi & Wato win.
  • Six Woman Tag: Maika, Hazuki & Koguma VS Starlight Kid, AZM & Yuna Mizumori; Maika, Hazuki & Koguma win.
  • El Phantasmo & Boltin Oleg VS Konosuke Takeshita & Rocky Romero; ELP & Boltin win.
  • 10 Man Tag: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano, YOH, Ryota Chikuzen & TAJIRI VS TMDK; Tanahashi, Yano, Yoh, Chikuzen & Tajiri win.
  • 8 Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS Shota Umino, Tomohiro Ishii, Taichi & Taka Michinoku; LIJ wins.
  • IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji VS Yuya Uemura; Tsuji wins and retains the title.
  • IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Hirooki Goto VS Callum Newman; Goto wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

Six Woman Tag: Maika, Hazuki & Koguma VS Starlight Kid, AZM & Yuna Mizumori!

It’s a Stardom Showcase as The Crimson Cannon Empress, The Wildheart & The High Speed Genius take on The Masked Idol, High Speed Bomb Girl & Kumamoto’s Unsinkable Ship! Which side of Stardom shines brightest in Fukuoka?

The trios sort out and Koguma starts against Starlight Kid. The fans cheer and the two circle. They approach, but Koguma dodges to do her bear taunt. But then Starlight CLUBS her! Starlight whips, Koguma whips but Starlight handsprings over. Starlight whips, runs up, but Koguma puts her on the apron. Koguma runs up, Starlight slips under and sunset flips, TWO! Starlight runs up, but into an arm-drag! Starlight comes back to hit a headlock takeover! Koguma headscissors, Starlight kips free, and the two strike their animal poses! The fans cheer as bear and tiger reset. They tie up, Koguma spins Starlight, then goes for the arms!

Starlight fights free of being made to bear pose! But then Koguma kicks low, runs, but Starlight blows past her to springboard and CROSSBODY! Then SHOTGUN! The fans fire up and Starlight tags Yuna. Yuna runs up to run Koguma over, then fires up as she keeps moving. But Hazuki jumps in and helps Koguma ELBOW Yuna down! Then they double Yuna into Maika’s shoulder tackle! The fans fire up for the TRIPLE DROPKICK! The ref reprimands but Koguma tags Hazuki in. Hazuki rallies the fans while she stands on Yuna! Then she scrubs her with the boot again and again! Hazuka runs to BOOT WASH her!

Hazuka bumps Yuna off buckles, tags Maika, and the fans cheer as Maika scoops and SLAMS! Cover, TWO! Yuna stays in this but Maika kicks her around. Maika eggs Yuna on, but Yuna rises to CLUB Maika in the chest! Maika comes back to DECK Yuna! Yuna flounders, Maika brings her up and whips her to a corner. Maika runs up but Yuna BOOTS her down, somersaults, and SHOTGUNS! Yuna hurries and she tags in AZM! The fans rally up for AZM as she climbs, then leaps, but into Maika’s arms! Maika throws AZM back, kicks her, and she has Koguma help double whip. But AZM sends Maika into Koguma, and Starlight jumps in!

Starlight hits a TAKEOVER HEADSCISSORS COMBO! Then AZM DOUBLE DROPKICKS Maika & Koguma! The fans fire up for Starlight’s team as she and AZK put Maika & Hazuki at the center of the ring. They coordinate, STANDING MOONSAULT and DOUBLE STOMP! Cover, TWO! Maika is tougher than that, but AZM drags her into a drop zone. AZM goes up, DIVING DOUBLE- NO, Maika avoids the stomps to then scoop and POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! AZM stays in this but the fans rally behind Maika. Maika drags AZM up, reels her in, and suplexes, only for AZM to fight free! Maika kicks and runs, but into a ROUNDHOUSE!

Maika just roars and comes back! Maika spins AZM, suplexes, but AZM has a GUILLOTINE FACELOCK! The fans rally as Maika endures, powers up, and suplexes again! BRAINBUSTER! The fans fire up while both women are down! The fans rally as Maika and AZM crawl, hot tags to Yuna and Hazuki! Hazuki sends Yuna to an open corner, runs up, but Yuna puts her on the apron! Only for Koguma to SPLASH Yuna! Hazuki then goes up and MISSILE DROPKICKS Yuna! Koguma goes up to CROSSBODY! Hazuki hurries to SENTON! Cover, TWO! Yuna survives, but is now in a CROSSFACE! Koguma & Maika intercept AZM & Starlight!

The fans rally while Yuna endures, and then AZM & Starlight break free! They both stomp Hazuki! Koguma & Maika drag Starlight & AZM back out, Hazuki CLUBS Yuna and whips her to ropes. Yuna reverses, Hazuki grabs ropes, then she DUMPS Yuna out! Yuna skins the cat to then LARIAT! The fans fire up with Yuna, she and the others coordinate! TRIPLE DROPKICK at the corner! Yuna then goes out while Starlight goes up! UFO SPLASH! Starlight sets Hazuki up for AZM’s DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS! Yuna adds the fireman’s carry and TROPICAL VALLEY BOMB! Cover, Maika breaks it! The fans fire up, but Starlight runs in and RANAS Maika!

Koguma runs in and spins Starlight around for a DDT! AZM runs up, Koguma blocks the kick to CUTTER! The fans fire up with Koguma as she and Hazuki coordinate. The “Double Crazy” combo DIVE and CROSSBODY!! Everyone is down at ringside and the fans fire up! Hazuki puts Yuna back in and the fans rally up more. Hazuki springboards and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Yuna survives but Hazuki keeps on her. Hazuki whips Yuna to a corner, Koguma hits a SPLASH, and then Hazuki adds an ELBOW! Maika adds a LARIAT, then she puts Yuna up top! Now we get Triple Crazy as Maika lifts and the others climb!

The fans fire up for the TRIPLE CRAZY BOMB!! Cover, but Starlight Kid breaks it!! Koguma CLOBBERS Starlight, Maika keeps AZM on the outside, and Hazuki drags Yuna up. Hazuki suplexes, Yuna slips free and she trips Hazuki up! Yuna hammerlocks an arm, turns Hazuki over, TROPICAL CRADLE!! TWO!??! Hazuki escapes, but Yuna runs up! But Hazuki spins her to a suplex and stalling BRAINBUSTER!! Cover, Triple Crazy wins!

Winners: Maika, Hazuki & Koguma, by pinfall

A fast ‘n’ furious fight from three rising stars, and it was the Wildheart that finishes it off! Will we see this Triple Crazy trio soon go for the IWGP Women’s and/or NJPW Strong Women’s Championships?

 

10 Man Tag: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano, YOH, Ryota Chikuzen & TAJIRI VS TMDK!

As The Ace’s Final Road continues to roll on, this is quite the unique stop. Sure, he’s teamed with the Clown Prince and Mr. Direct Drive before, but he is now honored to be teaming with The Makai Love Machine and yes, THE Japanese Buzzsaw! Will Tanahashi & Tajiri add to their legends with this epic team-up? Or will Zack Sabre Jr, Ryohei Oiwa, Robbie Eagles, Kosei Fujita & Hartley Jackson prove that The Mighty Don’t Kneel?

Just as always, Tanahashi shows off the abs, the fans cheer, and Yano even adds a “Sugoi~!” The teams sort out and ZSJ calls out Tajiri! The fans fire up as Tajiri accepts. The bell rings, ZSJ and Tajiri circle, and Fukuoka are strongly behind “TA-JI-RI! TA-JI-RI!” Tajiri and ZSJ feel things out, knuckle lock, and ZSJ rolls to then wrench and wristlock. Tajiri seems rather unbothered, and he slips under ZSJ to then trip him and spread the legs! ZSJ reaches back but Tajiri uses his whole body length! ZSJ pushes up, crawls back, wrenches and hammerlocks, then half nelsons to cravat. Tajiri spins through to wrench and trip ZSJ!

Tajiri has the legs, ZSJ resists then hooks Tajiri to trip him. ZSJ returns the leg sprawl, then has a STRETCH MUFFLER! ZSJ uses it as a means to an end so he can have the BOW ‘N’ ARROW! Tajiri pops free and turns ZSJ over to have a headlock. ZSJ slips out the back, they each want the other’s arm, but then ZSJ top mounts. Tajiri pushes ZSJ away and the fans cheer the standoff! Tajiri and ZSJ feel things out, knuckle lock again, and ZSJ turns Tajiri. Tajiri turns that back around but ZSJ has an arm. ZSJ hammerlocks but Tajiri steps through the ropes, then steps back inside, and he has ZSJ’s arm wrapped around ropes!

The fans cheer, but Tajiri shows respect by respecting the ropebreak. The fans applaud, as does ZSJ, and then they tag out to Yoh and Eagles. The fans join in on “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” but Yoh rolls Eagles up! TWO and Yoh kicks low! Yoh whips, Eagles reverses to go up and around to arm-drag! Things keep moving, Eagles hurdles but Yoh dodges to RANA! The fans fire up but Fujita storms in and CHOPS! The Ichiban Sweet Boys double whip, but Yoh ducks the lariats! Yoh kicks and kicks, but the Sweet Boys CHOP and CHOP! They double wrench, and MAX- NO, Yoh fights free! Yoh crisscrosses the Sweet Boys into each other, and DOUBLE BULLDOGS!

Tag to Yano and the fans cheer, only for the Sweet Boys to double kick! They double whip, but Yano grabs the ropes! Yano then sends Fujita into Eagles, and he SLAPS them both on the heads! Yano then unties the buckle pad! The fans fire up, but Sweet Boys DOUBLE ELBOW, split the wishbone, and DOUBLE KICK! The Sweet Boys BLAST Yano’s corner, then Eagles brings Yano to the Mighty corner. Eagles bumps Yano off buckles then tags in Hartley. Big Hartley UPPERCUTS then ELBOW DROPS! Cover, TWO! Yano is a bit tougher than that so Fujita tags in. Fujita drags Yano up to CHOP! And CHOP!

Fujita whips Yano corner to corner, runs up, but Yano puts him on the apron! Fujita SLAPS Yano back! The fans rally and Fujita aims, springboard for the MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Yano stays in this and the fans rally up. Fujita tags Oiwa and he drags Yano up. Oiwa whips Yano to ropes, then ELBOWS him down! Cover, TWO! Oiwa stays on Yano but Yano pulls on the mullet! Oiwa kicks free, runs, but into an atomic drop! The fans rally up while both men are down, and Yano tags in Ryota! Ryota CHOPS Oiwa! Ryota eggs Oiwa on, but Oiwa fires a forearm! Ryota CHOPS again! Oiwa fires another forearm!

Ryota CHOPS, Oiwa ROCKS him, repeat! The fans rally as Oiwa fires a flurry! ROLLING ELBOW! Oiwa runs, but into a BACKDROP! Fujita runs in, but into a scoop and SIDEWALK SLAM! Eagles runs in, into a scoop and SIDEWALK SLAM! The fans fire up with Ryota, and he invites Tanahashi in! They double whip Oiwa, then DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE! And then Ryota says, “Genki de masu!” The fans cheer as Ryota and Tanahashi have energy to spare, and Ryota drags Oiwa up. Ryota reels Oiwa in, but Oiwa fights the lift! Oiwa powers up to BACKDROP Ryota! The fans rally, Oiwa runs, SPLASH DOWN! Cover, TWO!

The fans rally more as Oiwa and Ryota rise. Oiwa whips Ryota to a corner, runs up, but Ryota LARIATS him down! Oiwa is up to LARIAT Ryota! Both me are down now and the fans rally again. Hot tags to ZSJ and Tanahashi! One more meeting between these two after yesterday’s final singles match, and the two dosido in a battle of Cobra Twists! Tanahashi has the COBRA TWIST! ZSJ pries free to have the COBRA TWIST in return! But Tanahashi powers out, has a leg, DRAGON- NO, ZSJ sits down for the ARMBAR! Tanahashi stacks ZSJ, TWO! ZSJ RAMS Tanahashi, snapmares, but Tanahashi UP KICKS!

Tanahashi kicks low, snapmares, and he NECK TWISTS! The fans fire up and Tanahashi runs, but ZSJ catches him to wrench! PELE to the arm! Then a STOMP to the elbow! Tag to Hartley and the fans rally up. Hartley runs corner to corner and SPLASHES Tanahashi against bare buckles! Short arm LARIAT! Cover, TWO! The Sweet Boys BLAST Tanahashi’s corner, then they send Tanahashi to a neutral corner. Fujita runs up to CHOP! Oiwa adds an ELBOW! Eagles adds a FOREARM! Then Oiwa scoops Tanahashi to SLAM him! ZSJ NECK TWISTS! Hartley SENTONS! Cover, Tajiri SLAPS Hartley on the head!

Tajiri scurries away before ZSJ can get him! The fans fire up and now Yoh & Yano mug Hartley. They double whip, but Hartley DOUBLE LARIATS! “Jackson Number One!” Hartley fireman’s carries Tanahashi, but Tajiri slips in and dosidos with the ref! GREEN MIST for Hartley!! Ryota runs up and SLINGBLADES!! Tanahashi hurries up top while his team keeps TMDK out! HIGH FLY FLOW!! Cover, Tanahashi’s team wins!

Winners: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano, Yoh, Ryota Chikuzen & Tajiri, by pinfall

Legends working together makes for a classic finish to this match! Will this moment be one to remember as The Ace continues his countdown to the end?

 

8 Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS Shota Umino, Tomohiro Ishii, Taichi & Taka Michinoku!

As Wrestling Dontaku wraps up the weekend, Tetsuya Naito and Bushi have reached the end of their NJPW run. Will they be victorious one last time alongside Hiromu Takahashi & Shingo Takagi? Or will the Roughneck, Stone Pitbull, Holy Emperor & Blue Playmaker make this parting a bitter goodbye?

For one last time, Naito takes his time with the elaborate entrance attire. It also seems rather clear that Bushi is emotional over this being his farewell match. The fans rally and the teams sort out. The fans call for “NA-I-TO! NA-I-TO!” LIJ fust bump, the fans cheer, and Naito steps up for the team. The fans rally behind him more as he starts against Taichi. The bell rings and Fukuoka cheers even harder for “NA-I-TO! NA-I-TO!” But then Naito tags out to Bushi. The Black Mask has the fans on his side, too, and he circles with Taichi. They approach, Bushi kicks low then runs, but into a BOOT! Taichi runs, but Bushi TOSSES him out!

Bushi DECKS Taka, but Shota & Ishii attack! They double whip, Bushi sends Shota into Ishii, then Bushi DOUBLE RANAS! BUSHIROONI~! Taichi is back but Bushi DECKS him! Takagi sets Taichi up but Taka trips Bushi! The fans boo but Taichi storms in and stomps Bushi. Taichi CLUBS Bushi, whips him corner to corner, then runs up, but into a BOOT! Bushi runs up and RANAS! The fans fire up while both men are down! Bushi stands and he tags in Hiromu. Hiromu BLASTS Ishii, then Takagi tags in! Hiromu & Takagi double whip Taichi to DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE! Then they flex! The fans cheer the side chest.

Hiromu stands Taichi up to CHOP him to the corner. Hiromu whips corner to corner, runs in and LARIATS, then snapmares, but Taichi RIDGE HANDS! Taichi wrenches and HOOK KICKS! Shota BLASTS Takagi because he can, and Taichi tags in Taka. Taka BOOTS Naito down, then stomps Hiromu around. The fans rally but Taka brings Hiromu up. Hiromu CHPOS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! Taka gets mad, and he pokes Hiromu in the eyes! Taka whips Hiromu to the corner, stomps and knees him, then tags Ishii. Ishii winds up to CHOP! Hiromu grits his teeth and CHOPS back, but Ishii doesn’t budge!

Ishii CHOPS Hiromu and eggs him on! Hiromu stands to CHOP, but Ishii CHOPS back! Ishii gives more trash talk and more mocking kicks. Hiromu stands to CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! The fans fire up as Ishii staggers, but then Hiromu CHOPS again! And again! Ishii ROCKS Hiromu, suplexes, but Hiromu fights free! SUPERKICK! Hiromu roars, reels Ishii in, but Ishii suplexes first! But Hiromu’s right up!? And he dodges Ishii to SNAP GERMAN! Ishii’s right up!? SAIDO! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Ishii hot tags Shota, and Shota BLASTS Takagi again! Shota then runs up on Hiromu, but Hiromu dodges!

Shota hits buckles, hurries after Hiromu, but Hiromu fights the half nelson. Hiromu blocks a kick, and a punch, and then DRAGON SCREWS! Hot tag to Naito! The fans erupt as Naito kicks and CLUBS Shota again and again! Naito whips to arm-drag Shota! And ELBOW him down! And basement DROPKICK! TakaTaichi attack and double whip, but Naito reverses to send Taka into Taichi! Drop toehold for Taichi and Bushi basement DROPKICKS! Naito kicks and whips Taka, Taka reverses, but Naito reverses back to TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Naito poses, then he tags in Takagi. Takagi runs up on Shota, blocks a boot, and LARIATS through!

Takagi keeps moving, but Shota SWATS the lariat! Takagi YUKON LARIATS, but Shota roars as he stays up! Shota fires boxing elbows, but Takagi shakes his head! Takagi fires boxing elbows of his own! He ROCKS Shota, runs, but Shota LARIATS at the ropes! Shota runs, Takagi LRIATS! Takagi runs, Shota dodges, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Shota stays up but the ELBOW and JAB hit! Shota ENZIGIRIS! Takagi SLIDING LARIATS! The fans fire up with Takagi and he whips Shota. Shota reverses to TORNADO DDT! Shota LARIATS Takagi down! But then Shota falls over, too! The fans fire up while both men crawl.

Taka tags in, he BOOTS Naito and BLASTS Bushi! Taka runs, redirects, redirects, and BOOTS Takagi down! The fans rally up as Taka brings Takagi up. Takagi ROCKS Taka! Taichi runs up to RIDGE HAND! Ishii ROCKS Takagi! Then we get a RIDGE HAND BACKHAND COMBO! SUPER K from Taka!! Cover, TWO!! Takagi is still in this but Taka goes to scoop! Takagi is too big, so Taka pokes him in the eyes! Takagi still ELBOWS! JABS! Taka UPPERCUTS, but Takagi PUMPING BOMBERS! Bushi slips in, as does Hiromu, and they double whip Taka to a corner. Hiromu runs up to forearm SMASH! Bushi adds an ELBOW!

Takagi LARIATS, then he snapmares Taka! Naito is in, LIJ hits a QUADRUPLE DROPKICK!! The fans fire up and Takagi says, “TOKI GA KITA!” The fans fire up more as The Rampaging Dragon drags Taka up. Taka fights the lift, and Shota SHOTGUNS Takagi! Hiromu dropkicks Hiromu’s legs! Hiromu dodges Ishii, he and Naito give Ishii TENDEDERO! Taichi runs up, he breaks through the line, but Hiromu sends him into an atomic drop! Takagi BLINDSLIDE BOMBERS! LARIAT in the corner, feed to a SUPERKICK! Naito wrenches Taichi for DESTINO!!! The fans are thunderous after seeing that final Destino!

Bushi then runs in and BLASTS Shota! Bushi keeps moving, for one last DIVE!! Down goes Shota and the fans are thunderous! Takagi has the fans join in for “OI! OI! OI!” Takagi runs, Taka dodges, and Taka BOOTS! Takagi comes back to PUMPING BOMBER! Takagi drags Taka up, pump handles and torture racks, BURNING DRAGON!! Cover, LIJ WINS!

Winners: Los Ingobernables de Japon, by pinfall

Their final battle in Fukuoka, their final battle with their friends, and their final battle in NJPW, it was all victorious! Naito & Bushi stand with Hiromu & Takagi to celebrate this final win. The fans cheer on “NA-I-TO!” as Naito leads the group in one last LIJ fist bump. The wild ride is over for the Uncontrollable Charisma, and he poses with his team one last time. Burn this moment into your memories, for we may never see Naito & Bushi back in a NJPW ring again.

 

IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji VS Yuya Uemura!

The Gene Blast may be one of the Reiwa Era Three Musketeers, but the Heat Storm vows to be the face of this new generation. A match meant to happen months ago finally does happen, but who will truly be the frontrunner of the future?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is the true global star!

The bell rings and the fans rally up as Yota and Yuya stare down. Fukuoka duels, but the “YO~TA!” sounds stronger than the “YU~YA!” They circle, feel things out, then circle a bit more. They feel out the knuckle lock, then Yuya rolls. Yota keeps him at bay as they clinch, then they go around. Yuya waistlocks, Yota wrenches free and waistlocks in return, but Yuya switches. Yota headlocks, Yuya rolls him to the mat and headlocks in return. Yota keeps his shoulders up, then fights to his feet. Yuya hits a takeover, Yota headscissors, but Yuya kips up. Yuya is fired up and the fans cheer him on.

Yota stands up and the two reset. They circle while the fans duel, and the two tie up. Yuya wrenches to a hammerlock but Yota switches and full nelsons. Then Yota headlocks and grinds Yuya down. Yuya fights up, pries at the hold, but Yota powers it on tighter. Yuya powers up but Yota squeezes the headlock even tighter! The fans applaud while Yuya endures. Yuya fires body shots, then powers up and out, drops down, but Yota avoids the dropkick! Yota dodges but Yuya arm-drags! And arm-drags again! Yuya has the armlock and the fans cheer again. Yota pulls at the hold, then fights up. Yuya grinds the elbow but Yota reaches for ropes.

Yota has the ROPEBREAK but Yuya brings him away from the ropes quickly. Yota fires forearm after forearm until Yuya lets go. Yota runs up but Yuya arm-drags! Only for Yota to drag Yuya down, trap an arm, and SACRIFICE the other arm! The fans cheer while Yuya writhes. Yuya shakes out the bad arm but Yota brings him back up. Yuya fires a forearm! Yota grins so Yuya fires more shots! Yota wrenches and serves up SOLE FOOD to the arm! Yuya staggers away to a corner and the fans rally more. Yota storms up on Yuya, puts him in the corner, and he wraps the bad arm around ropes! The ref counts as Yota pulls, so Yota lets go at 4.

Yota brings Yuya out to snapmare, then he has the bad arm in a top wristlock! Yuya endures, the fans rally, but Yota puts on the pressure! Yuya fights forward, reaches out, but Yota pulls on the arm! Yuya still manages the ROPEBREAK! The fans applaud as Yota legs go. Yota paces while Yuya shakes out the bad arm. Yota comes back to stomp the arm! Yota then wrenches Yuya, KNEES the arm, then KNEES it again! Yota KNEES Yuya into the corner, then paces again. Yuya stands, Yota runs in, but Yuya BOOTS him away! Yota runs back in, Yuya dodges and CHOPS! CHOPS! CHOPS! The fans fire up as Yuya winds up, but Yota dodges! Yota BOOTS Yuya in the corner!

The fans rally as Yota whips corner to corner. Yuya goes up and over, then arm-drags! And DROPKICKS! The fans cheer while both men are down. The fans rally again as Yuya rises up. Yuya roars, the fans fire up more, and Yuya brings Yota up to wrench and BIG back suplex! Cover, TWO! Yota stays in this but Yuya stays focused. The fans rally and Yuya brings Yota up. Yoga fights with elbows, then wrenches to YANK the arm! And YANK! And YANK! Yota whips, Yuya reverses, but Yota RANAS! Yuya tumbles out and the fans rally as Yota aims. Yota builds speed, and he DIVES! Direct hit and Yuya is sent into railing!

The fans fire up while Yuya stumbles and falls, and Yota fires back up! Yota has the fans rally more as he takes a lap. Yota comes back for Yuya, puts him in the ring, and the fans applaud. Yota steps in, stands Yuya up, but Yuya fights the suplex! Yota powers through, but Yuya fights free! Yuya CHOPS, then runs, but into a scoop and BACKBREAKER! The fans fire up while Yota grits his teeth. Yota storms around, goes to a corner, and he aims as Yuya rises. Yota runs in, STINGER SPLASH! The fans fire up while Yota snapmares Yuya down. Yota goes up, up, but Yuya avoids the Marlowe Crush!

Yuya dropkicks Yota’s leg, then has it for a SHIN BREAKER! GROUND DRAGON SCREW! Yuya then hurries to step through, FIGURE FOUR! Yota endures and the fans fire up! Yuya pulls on the main leg but Yota works to turn things over! The fans duel as Yuya fights against that, but Yota does turn the hold over! Yuya endures now, so he hurries to turn things over! Yota uses that to get the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer, Yuya and the ref undo the hold, and Yuya stands over Yota. Yuya brings Yota up to scoop and SLAM him down! Yuya then goes to a corner, climbs up, only for Yota to GAMANGIRI! Yuya is dazed up top, so Yota climbs up after him!

Yota brings Yuya up, throws forearms, then goes to the very top! But Yuya fires forearms! Yota falls, Yuya adjusts, and Yuya leaps! Yota avoids the crossbody but Yuya rolls through! Yota comes back, Yuya slips around and full nelsons! But Yota powers up to break the hold! Only for Yuya to GERMAN SUPLEX! Yuya runs, but into a BOOT! Yuya comes back and takes a swing, but into the BACKBREAKER! FLATLINER! But Yuya avoids the stomp! Yuya shoves Yota, but Yota DROPKICKS! The fans fire up as Yota keeps moving, and then Yuya DROPKICKS! Both men are down and the fans fire up again!

The two men crawl away to the corners while the fans rally up. Yuya runs in corner to corner, but Yota BOOTS him! Yota runs up, but Yuya clinches! Yota fights free, ROCKS Yuya, and Yuya staggers to the ropes! Yota whips, Yuya ducks ‘n’ dodges but Yota blows past, only for Yuya to get under! URENAGE! Cover, TWO! Yota stays in this and the fans fire up! Yuya shakes out the bad arm, then he stands Yota up for a scoop. Yuya SLAMS, then he fires back up! The fans fire up with Yuya as he climbs again! Yuya is up top, for the FROG SPLASH! But he FLOPS as Yota moves! Yota runs back in, FLYING ARMBAR TAKEDOWN!!

Yuya clasps hands, but Yota breaks the grip! ARMBAR!! Yuya endures, flails, reaches out, but Yota pulls on the bad arm! Yuya fights around, but Yota just keeps after the arm! Yuya uses his core strength to sit up, but Yota PULLS the arm straight! Yuya falls over, fights around, and he turns over. Yota does his best to keep the armbar, even with this mounted angle! Yuya bites his thumb to ignore the pain in his arm! Yuya then reaches out, ROPEBREAK!! Yota lets go in frustration but the fans fire up. Yuya clutches his elbow but Yota paces around. Yota drags Yuya up from the ropes, but Yuya CHOPS! Yota brushes that off, but Yuya CHOPS again!

Yuya can’t put enough power behind the strikes with that bad arm, but he keeps trying! Yota BOOTS Yuya, Yuya drops to his knees, and the ref checks with him. Yuya refuses to let the bad arm cost him again, and he rises up to CHOP! And HEADBUTT! And HEADBUTT! Yota ROCKS him!! And then KNEES him down! The fans fire up while Yota stands tall! Yota goes to a corner, watches Yuya sputter and rise, GENE- DROPKICK to the leg! Yuya hurries to grab that leg, but Yota fires off forearms! Yuya eggs Yota on, so Yota HEADBUTT! But Yuya still DRAGON SCREWS!! Yuya steps through again, FIGURE FOUR!!

The fans fire up as Yota endures again! Yuya puts as much pressure as he can, Yota pries at the hold, but Yuya thrashes around! Yota reaches out, keeps his shoulders up, and he drags Yuya along towards ropes! But Yuya drags Yota back from ropes! Yuya thrashes as hard as he can, we hit 20 minutes, and Yota still endures! The fans rally harder and harder as Yota fights to turn this over! Yota does, but then Yuya turns it back! But this time, Yuya turns back the other way to keep Yota from the ropes! And then he PULLS on the leg! Yota lunges for the ROPEBREAK!! The fans fire up while the ref again frees Yota.

Yota clutches his leg while he crawls away, but Yuya is right on him! Yuya has the leg, but Yota ENZIGIRIS! Yuya falls, but he also manages to waistlock! Yuya drags Yota up, but Yota fires elbows! Yuya still GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridging cover, TWO!! Yuya holds onto Yota and the fans fire up! Yuya full nelsons, DRAGON SUPLEX!! Bridging cover, TWO!! Yota survives again and Yuya is furious! Yuya roars, the fans are with him, and he reels Yota in! SAIDO BACKBREAKER! Then he puts Yota in the drop zone! Yuya climbs, the fans rally more, FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO?!?! Yota survives and Yuya is beside himself!

Fukuoka is thunderous as Yuya rises! Yuya brings Yota up, cording holds one arm, swings to get the other, but Yota STUNNERS free! Yota roars, runs, but into a DROPKICK! Yota just comes back, GENE- ARM-DRAG!! Yuya hurries to lock in those arms, but Yota fights off the clinch! They go around and around, and Yota frees an arm! But Yota brings it back in! DEADBOLT SUPLEX!!! Yuya roars, the fans are electric, GENE BLASTER outta nowhere!!! Cover, YOTA WINS!!

Winner: Yota Tsuji, by pinfall (still IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion)

The Heat Storm was certainly on fire, but Tsuji was volcanic! The gold stays with Yota, will he and those left in LIJ make sure NJPW stays tranquilo?

Speaking of which, the rest of LIJ returns to the ring so they can stand with their guy. Tsuji gets to also have his final photo op with the group as we know it. We also get one last LIJ fist bump with the five of them, and then Naito & Bushi let Yota, Takagi & Hiromu have the ring. Yota hurries to get the mic to tell Naito & Bushi, “Let me have one last word.” The fans applaud, and Naito & Bushi stop to hear him out. “Naito and Bushi leaving could signal the end of Los Ingobernables de Japon. But remember this: We’re ungovernable. We’ll always be connected in our hearts. Until next time.” The fans applaud that! Naito even gives one last fist bump salute.

The fans cheer as the LIJ Era has changed, and Bushi makes sure we see his mask where it says, “Adios.” Then Yota continues to say that he is still IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion, and that he’ll continue to defend the cerulean blue mat of NJPW. The fans applaud, and Yota says he is fortunate to have such a great rival in Uemura. And another in Gabe Kidd. So, who should he defend this belt against next? Well, he said the man’s name, so here comes the Mad Man! The fans bark it up for the War Dog, and Gabe gets right in Yota’s face. Yota says nic eto see him. Should they pick up where they left off?

Gabe takes the mic to say, “You’re an IWGP champion?” No, no, Yota beat Evil and Yuya, but in Osaka… It was a double knockout! Yota never beat Gabe! The fans cheer that point! Gabe says on June 15th… In Osaka Jo-Hall… “Let’s find out who the strongest is!!” The fans love that idea! Gabe heads back out, the fans bark more, and Yota tells Gabe, “Let’s show ’em our NJPW.” The fans also like that, and Yota asks if they’re ready! The fans cheer because they are, but who will make this their Dominion?

 

IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Hirooki Goto w/ Yoshi-Hashi VS Callum Newman w/ The United Empire!

The Fierce Warrior finally put the G in IWGP at the New Beginning in Osaka when he won this title. But now, the Prince of Pace is looking to blow right past him as the top guy in NJPW! Will the Goto Revolution stay the course? Or will it be conquered by the United Empire?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who’s really the G of IWGP!

The bell rings and the fans rally strongly for “GO-TO-O! GO-TO-O!” Callum doesn’t let that bother him, and he runs up to BOOT Goto! Callum fires forearms, whips, but Goto reverses! Callum ducks ‘n’ dodges to build speed, but then Goto dodges! The fans cheer as Goto is at least agile like Callum. They tie up, then they just fire off forearms! The fans rally as the shots go back and forth, faster and faster! Goto gets the edge, headlocks, but Callum powers out. Goto runs Callum over, but Callum kips up to ENZIGIRI! Callum TOSSES Goto out, then PLANCHAS! The fans fire up while Goto goes down!

Callum fires himself up and the fans cheer. Callum brings Goto up, the fans duel a bit more evenly, and Callum whips. Goto reverses and Callum hits railing! But he comes back to BOOT Goto down! Callum snarls, drags Goto back up, and now Callum sends Goto into railing! Goto comes back but Callum BOOTS him down again! And then PENALTY KICKS! The fans rally, Hashi coaches Goto, but Callum KICKS Goto in the back! Callum puts Goto in the ring, the fans applaud, and Callum sits Goto up again. Callum hits another PENALTY KICK! Callum then goes to the corner and climbs up, calling his shot.

Callum aims, DIVING- NO, Goto dodges! Callum comes back, but Goto dodges! Goto LARIATS, then he clinches for the SAIDO! Callum flounders away and the fans fire up. Callum goes to a corner, Goto runs in, MURAMASA! Then Goto puts Callum up top! Goto climbs up after Callum, just to drag him into a draped position! SUPER DRAPING NECKBREAKER!! Callum flounders out of the ring, Great-O-Khan & Francesco Akira check on him, as does Red Shoes. Callum winches, clutches his shoulder, but he manages to sit up. Callum has speed but Goto is taking advantage of his skinnier frame.

Red Shoes starts the ring count and Goto stays back, which annoys Callum. Callum storms into the ring, but Goto kicks him down! Goto has Callum up for a suplex, and BRAINBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Callum stays in this and the fans fire up, but Goto stays right on Callum. Goto drags Callum up, but Callum clutches his shoulder, so Goto lets him be. We’re only five minutes in as the fans rally up, and Goto stomps Callum around. Callum crawls away to a corner but Goto grabs at him. Callum wants Goto to hold on, and Red Shoes has Goto step back. Callum’s neck and shoulder are really bothering him, but Goto just storms up to stomp him!

Goto drags Callum up, snapmares, then clamps on a chinlock. Callum endures as Goto’s knee digs into the back and neck. Goto then ELBOWS Callum in the head, stomps him around, and brings him up. Goto CLUBS Callum’s neck, but Callum CHOPS! The pain in his shoulders holds Callum back, but Goto clinches for a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! And then a GROUND OCTOPUS! Callum endures, reaches out, and the fans rally up. Goto thrashes around but Akira & Khan coach Callum. Callum kicks around but Goto shifts to a headscissor necklock! Callum endures the squeeze, kicks and kicks, and finds the ROPEBREAK!

The fans applaud and Goto lets go in frustration. Goto drags Callum up but he’s a ragdoll again. Goto still brings Callum around, snapmares him back down, then KICKS him in the back! And ELBOW DROPS! Callum sputters but Goto just ELBOW DROPS again! Akira & Khan coach Callum but Goto looms over him. Goto ELBOW DROPS onto Callum’s back! Cover, TWO! Callum toughs it out but Goto is still calm. Goto stands Callum up, kicks him low, but Callum fires a forearm! And another! The pain in the neck holds those back, and Goto CLUBS Callum! Goto runs, but into a DROPKICK! The fans fire up while both men are down!

Khan & Akira coach Callum, Hashi coaches Goto, and both Goto and Callum crawl to the apron. Goto goes to the floor, and Callum smiles. The fans rally as Callum builds speed and FLIES!! Callum does a full 360 to hit Goto and then rolls through more to stand back up at the ramp! The fans are thunderous and Callum fires himself back up! Callum drags Goto to his feet and puts him in the ring. The fans applaud, and Callum hurries back in. Callum aims from a corner while Goto flounders away. The fans rally more, and Callum runs corner to corner. FLYING DROPKICK! Callum then chicken wings for a TIGER SUPLEX!

But the bad neck won’t let Callum bridge! Callum hurries to lateral press, TWO! And we’re just 10 minutes in! The fans rally, Callum fires up with a very Will Ospreay style “OI! OI! OI!” The fans rally behind that, and Callum brings Goto up. Callum reels Goto in, hooks a leg, FIRE- NO, Goto slips free of Firebolt, waistlocks, but Callum fights the lift. Callum runs, Goto follows, but then Callum dodges! Goto dodges, Callum dodges, then Callum hurdles! But Goto fireman’s carries! USHIGOROSHI! Both men are down and the fans fire up for that high speed exchange! Goto has the crowd behind him again as he rises up.

Goto storms up on Callum, stands him up, but Callum fires a forearm! Only to fall to his knees! Callum rises up but Goto DECKS him! Callum is running on fumes, but the fans do rally for him, too. Goto eggs him on and Callum manages to stand. Callum fires a forearm, drops to a knee, but Goto stands him up. Goto DECKS Callum again! Callum shakes out the stars and he snarls! Callum fires another forearm, but Goto DECKS him a third time! Goto eggs Callum on, the fans rally again, and Callum rises. Callum puts his hands behind his back and dares Goto to hit him! So Goto DECKS Callum a fourth time!

Khan & Akira coach Callum on but Red Shoes asks if Callum wants to stop. Callum shakes his head, he’s not gonna stop here. Callum stands again, leans on the ropes, then comes back for more! Callum even SPITS at Goto! The fans boo that, but Goto DECKS Callum for it! Goto watches Callum sputter, and Callum slowly rises again. But then he falls back over! Callum headbutts the mat to fire back up, and the fans rally behind him! Goto winds up and ROCKS Callum! Callum is back to get in Goto’s face! Goto fires a flurry of forearms! Callum CHOPS! Goto feels that one! The fans fire up and Callum roars, but Goto spins him! URA G T R!

Goto goes to run but Callum reels him in! GERMAN SUPLEX! ROUNDHOUSE! Callum runs, but into a fireman’s carry! G T W!! Cover, TWO!! We’re 15 minutes in as Goto stalks Callum to the apron. Goto stomps Callum, then stands him up. But Callum fights the fireman’s carry with elbows! Goto still lifts! Callum flails, slips down, and KICKS Goto! Callum goes up, up, and OSCUTTER 2.0 on the apron!! Both men fall to the floor and the fans fire up! Red Shoes checks, both men are able to continue, so a ring count starts. Khan fans off Callum while the fans rally. The count already passes 7 of 20, then hit 10, but both men are still down!

Callum rises at 13, drags himself in at 17, but Goto is still down! Goto rises up and springs in at 19! The fans fire up as this continues! Callum goes to a corner, runs up, BUSAIKU KNEE! Then he hurries to bring Goto into the drop zone! Callum roars, climbs, and the fans fire up! DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS!! Cover, TWO?!? Goto survives the coup de grace and Callum can’t believe it! Akira & Khan tell Callum to keep going, he’s almost done it! The fans rally and duel as Callum hobbles over. Callum stands Goto up, then runs, but Goto swings, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Both men stay up, and they DOUBLE LARIAT again!

The fans fire up, Callum returns, and DOUBLE LARIATS collide again! And again! Callum waistlocks, ripcords, RAINMAKER?!? Cover, TWO!!! Goto survives as Callum shouts out the former leader of Chaos! The fans are thunderous, Callum feeds off that energy, and Callum drags Goto up. Callum calls his shot, springboards, OSC- NO, Goto blocks the cutter! DISCUS- NO, Callum dodges and springboards! OSCUTTER 2.0!!! Cover, TWO!??! But Callum hooks a leg! FIREBOLT!!! Cover, TWO?!?! Goto survives again and the fans are electric! Callum is unsure what to do as we pass 20 minutes, but the fans dueling shakes the arena!

Callum drags Goto up, but Goto wrenches out! Goto spins Callum, dragon sleepers, but Callum slips free! Backslide! Goto rolls through, PENALTY KICK BLOCKED! Goto HEADBUTTS Callum, ripcords, RAINMAKER!!! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous again! Goto rises, he brings Callum up, and the fans rally as hard as they can! Goto HEADBUTTS away on Callum, then brings him up to HEADBUTT again! Goto snarls and the fans are thunderous again, as Goto suplexes for SHOTEN KAI!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Callum survives and Goto cannot believe it! The fans duel harder than ever before, and Goto rises again!

Goto roars and focuses his power! Callum sits up, into a BUZZSAW! But then Goto brings Callum around, but Callum drops to victory roll! TWO!! Callum SUPERKICKS, but Goto LARIATS!! Goto stands Callum up, dragon sleepers, but Callum fires shots from below! Goto blocks that arm, traps it, and G T R KAI!!! Cover, GOTO WINS!!

Winner: Hirooki Goto, by pinfall (still IWGP World Heavyweight Champion)

The Prince of Pace did his best to follow in the Aerial Assassin’s footsteps, but he is still a long way from reaching the top of the mountain. However, if this is how close he came on his first try, will nothing stop Callum Newman from being the future of NJPW?

As for Goto, the belt is put back around his waist, and he watches Callum walk away. Callum takes a moment to bow in deep respect to Goto before he and the Empire leave. Goto then grabs the mic, and the fans cheer him on. “No matter what anyone says, this is MY time!” The fans cheer that! Goto continues, “Who’s my next opponent? As a fighting champion, I’ll take on all challengers!” Wait! Zack Sabre Jr. makes his way back out here! Goto took this title from ZSJ so clearly ZSJ wants a rematch. ZSJ grabs a mic to tell Goto in Japanese, “Good work tonight. That was a fantastic match! Truly fantastic.

“You’ve been on a roll lately! You’re indeed a great champion. But I’m you’re next challenger!” The fans like the sound of that! Goto says, “I accept!” The fans really like that, and the two shake hands on it. Will the Submission Master make sure that- WAIT! Shingo Takagi is here?! He storms into the ring with a mic to say, “Pardon the intrusion!” The fans cheer as Takagi asks, “Mind if I speak my piece? Zack, hold on a moment. OI, GOTO! You really are something. You got a belt, a wife, and kids! And on top of that, you’re in Hontai!” The fans do applaud that with a bit of a chuckle.

Takagi points out that he, on the other hand, has no belt, no wife, no kids. “And now it looks like my faction is done… But that doesn’t mean I need to hang my head. I’ll soar to the top!” The fans applaud, and Takagi says the G in IWGP stands for Goto, right? But oi, oi, oi! You can’t spell “Shingo” OR “Takagi” without a G! He has two G’s, so he wants his shot at the title. At least, he’d like to say that. But he has no objects to Zack. Takagi did lose to ZSJ last time. So then Takagi will wait to challenge the winner of Goto VS ZSJ! The fans like that, too! Takagi says if it’s about G’s, Goto can’t argue Takagi’s point!

The three men all look to each other, and it looks like the deal is struck. Fierce Warrior VS Front Man, and the Rampaging Dragon gets the winner! Who will stand on the summit of NJPW going into the summer? Takagi and ZSJ take their leave, and Goto continues. “Again, thank you very much for coming today!” The fans applaud, and Goto says, “No matter who I’m up against, I will not be defeated. The Goto Revolution is far from over! Follow it until the very end! Let’s end with Goto’s G’s.” The fans chuckle, and Goto says he knows most of the locales had G in their names. But not in Fukuoka…

Even so, Goto still has this IWGP World title around his waist, so no worries there. IKU ZO! The fans cheer, and Goto says, “The G in IWGP is for GOTO!” The streamers fly, and the Fierce Warrior is ready to lead NJPW on! But will things only heat up from here on out?


My Thoughts:

An awesome event for Wrestling Dontaku’s finale, and we’re already building towards Dominion next month. I was rather surprised that the Six Woman Tag was so quick. Well, I feel like a lot of Stardom matches on a NJPW show end up like that… But the 10 Man Tag with Tanahashi’s team beating TMDK, and then the 8 Man Tag of LIJ winning, both of those matches felt just as fast/short. I suppose on some level, they did it because we all had a feeling who was winning. Tanahashi’s team wins because he also had special guests Tajiri and Ryota, so that was just a great moment for some longstanding legends.

LIJ winning was apparently to also commemorate their last match as a faction. With Titan being their CMLL member, we only have Hiromu, Takagi and Tsuji. I suppose a trio isn’t necessarily a faction, but I’m surprised they just sprang this dissolution on us. Great match from Yota VS Yuya, but I think they dragged it out a bit at the start. It got hot by the end, and Yota retaining was a great move. Gabe Kidd calling his shot is also a great move, he and Yota are going to have a great rematch from their time limit draw. And then awesome main event from Goto VS Callum, with Callum looking great even in defeat. Callum is definitely on his way, maybe he’ll really build up his power level in the G1 Climax this year.

Great promo to close, with Goto, ZSJ and Takagi establishing the next couple of title shots. I think Goto VS ZSJ has been made for Resurgence this Friday, so they’re getting that right out of the way so Takagi can face the champion at Dominion. At the same time, they kinda have to because Best of the Super Juniors is going to dominate May. Resurgence would be a wild place for a title change since it’s in the US and it’s a true PPV, so I’m not liking ZSJ’s chances.

My Score: 9.1/10

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