Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE NXT Results & Report! (1/2/24)
Happy New Year’s Evil!
Will 2024 be the Year of the Mad Dragon?
Despite being less than 100%, Ilja Dragunov is going to defend his NXT Championship against the 2023 Iron Survivor, Trick Williams! Will the Czar still be #UNBESIEGBAR?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- NXT Women’s Championship: Lyra Valkyria VS Blair Davenport; Lyra wins and retains the title.
- Six Man Tag:
Dragon LeeCarlito & The LWO VS No Quarter Catch Crew; The LWO wins. - Roxanne Perez VS Arianna Grace; Arianna wins, by disqualification.
- Loser Works for the Winner: Tiffany Stratton VS Fallon Henley; Fallon wins and is now Tiffany’s boss.
- Men’s Breakout Tournament Finals: Riley Osborne VS Oba Femi; Femi wins and has the right to challenge for the NXT Championship.
- NXT Championship: Ilja Dragunov VS Trick Williams; cancelled.
- NXT Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Trick Williams VS Grayson Waller; Trick wins and will challenge Dragunov for the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
The first 30 MINUTES of NXT are commercial free tonight!
A New Year signifies looking to the future.
“As you stare into the unknown, you see new beginnings, something to accomplish. But in the unknown, darkness also smiles back. Tonight, many will discover if good can be outweighed by evil. Defending what’s yours is one thing, but taking it requires much more cruelty. If you desire to stand out from the rest, you must tap into your dark side. Is this the year hard work pays off? Or will you crumble to utter embarrassment? Sinister deeds lurk around every corner. If your ambition is to be on top… As the New Year starts, let us see if you can withstand the evil, or embrace it.”
NXT Women’s Championship: Lyra Valkyria VS Blair Davenport!
The Morrigan proved she was ready for The Big Time when she dethroned Becky Lynch, but now she faces the Ichiban Gaijin. Will Davenport’s devious deeds prove to have been in vain? Or will all of NXT see they should beware of Blair?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who kicks off 2024 with a bang!
The bell rings and the fans rally up for Lyra as she stares down with Blair. They tie up, go around, and Blair puts Lyra on ropes. Blair lets off fast and the two reset. They tie up, Lyra wrenches an arm and whips. Blair reverses, drops, but Lyra rolls over that to come back. Blair blocks the hip toss to facelock, but Lyra wrenches out to WRING Blair! Lyra hurries to facelock, but Blair wrenches out to WRING, only for Lyra to handspring through! And then hip toss after all! Lyra headlocks and grinds while fans clap-clap-clap “WOO~!” Blair endures as Lyra shifts to a cravat, and Blair throws body shots. Blair rolls but Lyra holds onto the cravat.
Lyra stands up, she keeps on the neck wrench but Blair spins free and kicks low. Blair whips, Lyra goes up and over, then comes back to sunset flip! Blair stays up, drags Lyra to her feet and Gory Especials but Lyra fights it and snapmares. Cover, ONE, but Lyra keeps the cravat. Blair fights up, the fans rally for Lyra, but Blair powers Lyra into a corner. Blair throws body shots, the ref counts, and Lyra lets go at 4. But then Lyra dumps Blair to the apron! Blair ducks the haymaker to HOTSHOT Lyra down! Blair then climbs up the corner, and DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS Lyra in the shoulders! Cover, TWO!!
Fans fire up as Lyra is still in this! Blair stomps Lyra around, drags her up, and scuffs her. The fans rally but Blair gives more kicks. Blair hauls Lyra up to turn and NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Lyra shakes the cobwebs out but Blair clamps on a chinlock. Blair leans on Lyra, grinds her forearm into Lyra’s head, but Lyra fights up. Lyra picks Blair up as a backpack, to then BACKPACK STUNNER! Blair lets go and Lyra goes to a corner. The fans rally for Lyra as Blair storms up, but Lyra fires windmill palms! And then more palms, more windmills, and then a LARIAT! Fans fire up as Lyra LARIATS again!
Lyra whips, Blair reverses but Lyra CROSSBODIES! Fans fire up more as Lyra aims, SOBATS, front kicks, RAMS and ENZIGURIS! Blair falls and Lyra hurries up top. Blair stands, and avoids the crossbody this time! Then she hurries to haul Lyra up, but Lyra fights the suplex! Lyra FISHERMAN SUPLEXES! Float over cover, TWO! Blair is hanging in there and the fans rally up again. Lyra storms over, drags Blair up, but Blair fights the lift! Blair CLUBS Lyra, ROCKS her, and then kicks. Lyra blocks, reels Blair in, GERMAN SUPLEX! Cover, TWO! Blair is hanging in there and Lyra grows frustrated.
Lyra drags Blair to a drop zone, climbs up again and the fans are with her. But Blair is up to ROCK her first! Blair climbs up after Lyra, Lyra CLUBS Blair in return but Blair throws body shots. Lyra HAMMERS away on Blair, Blair hops down but she GAMANGIRIS back! Blair then climbs, brings Lyra up, and SUPER FALCON ARROWS!! Lyra flounders her way out of the ring! Fans fire up, but Blair goes out after Lyra to THROW her into barriers! Blair talks trash on Lyra, drags her up, and KAMI-GOYES the desk!! Lyra avoids disaster and the fans lose their minds as Blair clutches her knee! The desk has a HUGE hole in the side of it!!
Lyra hurries to the ring as the count climbs. Lyra is in at 7, Blair hobbles up and in at 9. Lyra has Blair but Blair HOTSHOTS her away! Blair hobbles over, stands Lyra up and suplexes, but the knee won’t let her Falcon Arrow! Lyra waistlocks but Blair POSTS her! Blair uses the corner to go up and up and DOUBLE- NO, Lyra dodges and the landing hurts Blair’s leg! Lyra HEEL KICKS Blair, then fireman’s carries! Swing and SAMOAN DRIVER!! Cover, Lyra wins!
Winner: Lyra Valkyria, by pinfall (still NXT Women’s Champion)
A miscalculation by Blair and she loses out on the title! Lyra’s reign continues into the New Year, but wait! Here comes LOLA VICE! She brings her own ref, and her Breakout contract! But then TATUM PAXLEY attacks Lola! So Elektra Lopez rushes out to attack Tatum! Lyra WRECKS Lopez! Tatum and Lyra brawl with Lola and Lopez, refs rush out, but fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT!” Lopez & Lola back off for now, but Lyra still isn’t so sure about her stalker… What is in store for Lyra’s 2024?
BREAKING NEWS!
Kelly Kincaid is backstage in front of WWE Medical, and has a huge report. Despite Ilja Dragunov wanting to defend his title tonight, Medical will NOT clear him to compete tonight. He is still experiencing lingering effects from his neck injury, and we are waiting on Trick Williams’ reaction to the match not happening tonight. Fans are certainly disappointed, how much more so is Trick Williams?
Six Man Tag: The LWO VS No Quarter Catch Crew!
The Boy Wonder has some amigos watching his back, and just as Drew Gulak, Damon Kemp & Myles Borne thought they were getting the North American Champion, SURPRISE! It’s Caribbean Cool! Will Carlito, Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde continue to disappoint No Quarter by giving them an L?
The teams sort out, Cruz starts against Gulak and they circle. The fans are going wild for Carlito, but Cruz and Gulak tie up first. Gulak wrenches to a wristlock, but Cruz uses ropes to flip through, wrench back and whip. Gulak reverses, Cruz goes up but Gulak stays out from under. Gulak waistlocks, Cruz slips around and headlocks, but Gulak powers out. Cruz ducks ‘n’ dodges and tilt-o-whirls to RANA! Fans fire up, Cruz runs up, but Gulak puts Cruz up top. Cruz uses that to springboard and CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Cruz facelocks, tags Wilde, and the LWO double whip. They double ELBOW Gulak, then Wilde runs to get the assist, hip toss SPLASH!
Fans fire up, Wilde covers, TWO! Wilde keeps his cool and he brings Gulak around. Wilde UPPERCUTS Gulak, whips, but Gulak reverses. Wilde holds ropes, avoids Kemp’s cheap shot and CHOPS Gulak! Wilde knuckle locks Gulak but Kemp runs in. Wilde hurdles over Kemp to go up and up and FLYING ARM-DRAG MISSILE DROPKICK COMBO! The fans fire up with Wilde, but Gulak distracts the ref so Borne can sucker punch Wilde1 but Carlito and Cruz rush in, it is a brawl! The LWO tosses out No Quarter, and the fans fire up again! Wilde slingshots, fakes No Quarter out, but now they’re way up the ramp.
Carlito & Cruz join Wilde on the apron and Wilde goes up the ropes. “L! W! O!” MY GOODNESS, BOOSTED SPRINGBOARD CROSSBODY!! Wilde wipes out No Quarter and the fans lose their minds! Wilde stands up and puts Gulak in. Wilde climbs a corner, MISSILE DROPKICKS, then covers, TWO! Wilde brings Gulak up, ROCKS him with haymakers, then whips. Gulak reveres, Borne gets a cheap shot in, but Wilde takes a swing. Gulak CLOBBERS Wilde! Fans boo, but Wilde tags Borne in. No Quarter mugs Wilde, Borne ROCKS him and throws body shots. Borne DECKS Wilde, knees him in the back, then tags in Kemp.
Kemp & Borne mug Wilde, but Wilde throws body shots. Kemp kicks low, drops to UPPERCUT, then he DECKS Wilde! Cover, TWO! Fans rally but Borne tags in. Kemp keeps Wilde down so Borne can stomp him. Borne tags Gulak, they mug Wilde, then Gulak scoops. Gulak SLAMS Wilde, taunts Carlito, then tags Borne back in. Borne tags Kemp, and No Quarter coordinates. Kemp feeds Wilde to Gulak to GERMAN SUPLEX! Kemp waistlocks, Borne and Kemp DROPKICK GERMAN COMBO! Bridging cover, but Carlito breaks it! The fans fire up, but Kemp keeps Wilde back with an ANKLE LOCK!
Wilde endures, fans rally up, but Gulak tags in. Wilde BOOTS Kemp into Gulak! Gulak hurries to stop Wilde with a haymaker! Gulak corners Wilde, tags Kemp, and Wilde slips free, only for Kemp to stomp him. ANKLE LOCK! Wilde endures again, reaches out, but Kemp CLOBBERS him! Kemp DECKS Cruz, has Wilde’s leg and reels him in. Kemp back suplexes but Wilde lands on his feet! Wilde dodges Kemp to hot tag Carlito! Fans are thunderous as Carlito rallies on No Quarter! Carlito whips Kemp to kick him, and knee lift! Borne runs in, Carlito dodges him, DOUBLE LARIATS on Kemp & Borne!
The fans are even more fired up, as Cruz passes Carlito an apple! Gulak runs in but Carlito back drops him away! Kemp ROCKS Carlito, runs, but into a SPINEBUSTER! Cover, Gulak breaks it! Wilde leaps in, Gulak gets under, but Wilde SUPERKICKS! Borne HOTSHOTS Wilde to then LARIAT! Cruz tightrope walks to MISSILE DROPKICK Borne! Kemp scoops and SLAMS Cruz, but Carlito ELBOWS Kemp! Carlito runs up, into an IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! All six men are down and fans boo. Kemp crawls to the cover, TWO! Carlito and Kemp stir, the others get out of the ring, but Wilde climbs a corner? SKY TWISTER onto Gulak & Borne!!
The fans lose their minds again! Carlito tags Cruz before the O’Conner! Carlito kicks Kemp into Cruz’s ENZIGURI! Then Carlito hits the BACKSTABBER! Carlito scoops Kemp to SLAM him into a drop zone, and Cruz goes up! PHOENIX SPLASH! Cover, LWO wins!
Winners: Carlito & The LWO, by pinfall
Gulak is furious! He was denied a fight with the North American Champion, and then loses this one anyway! And oh yeah, Carlito SPITS apple at Gulak! How is Charlie Dempsey gonna feel when he returns from AJPW?
Backstage interview with Trick Melo Gang.
Kelly Kincaid is with Trick Williams & Carmelo Hayes, and brings up this is not how Trick wanted to start his year. Trick says that to say he’s disappointed is an understatement. Trick Melo Gang has been in the gym, they’ve been grinding. Trick wishes all the best for Dragunov, because once he is healthy, they are having this title match. Melo says he ain’t buying it, though. Knowing Trick was training with Melo scared Dragunov off, because this would be a guaranteed loss! But then Grayson Waller walks in, and he says Kelly can go. Waller says it is a shame about tonight, but think of it as a blessing. Trick was NOT gonna beat Dragunov!
C’mon, Melo, tell ’em! Melo knows, right? Trick says, “Naysayer, please.” Trick is gonna get that title, and he knows Waller has heard by now, Trick is The Iron Survivor. Well, Waller is the original Iron Survivor. Surely Trick remembers that when he was just the valet. Or is Melo the valet now. Melo says we are not doing this. Waller’s messing with the wrong ones. Melo and Waller can run it back one time if he wants. In fact, Trick’s all locked in, he needs a tune-up. Waller says he’s on SmackDown now, he wrestles legends, not flops like Trick. Waller’s jacket’s the flop. Look at Waller and look at Trick. Who looks more like a flop? Uhhh Waller!
Melo says no one is more ready than Trick, no one looks better than Trick, and Trick has new merch out! Melo is so confident that Trick will beat Waller, Trick will even put his #1 Contender shot on the line! Waller likes it! Melo Don’t Miss, challenge accepted! Waller mocks “Whoop Dat Trick!” while Trick asks Melo what the what! Melo says Trick’s got this, but will Waller end up the one with it after tonight?
Riley Osborne speaks.
“Tonight is the biggest match of my life. The finals of the NXT Breakout Tournament. It’s the reason I came to NXT. To follow in the paths paved by great European superstars like Finn Balor and Drew McIntyre. Or the OGs, like Fit Finlay and William Regal. To have my name be in that conversation with those guys and the outstanding competitors, I’ve got to win that contract. If I win… I have a real shot at becoming a champion in 2024. But man, Oba Femi’s a beast. He has the advantage in every category: Size, strength, power. No doubt I’m the underdog. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“Somehow, someway, I’ve got to get my hand raised, become the next NXT Breakout winner, and be on my to one day hearing my name, ‘Riley Osborne,’ on a list of the great European superstars.” Will Chase U’s top recruit soon be on top of the world?
Roxanne Perez VS Arianna Grace!
The Prodigy has accomplished much in her career, and has even exceled at showing her edge. Will she continue adding achievements to her list by beating a pageant queen? Or will Arianna show Roxanne how to lose with grace?
The bell rings and the two tie up. They go around, the fans rally up, and Roxie powers Arianna back. Arianna pulls hair to bring Roxie back, and Arianna wrenches to wristlock. Arianna YANKS the arm, hits an ELBOW BREAKER, then throws Roxie up and over! Arianna “apologizes” and offers a handshake. Roxie scowls, reaches back out, but then Arianna pie faces her and says kiss the ring! Roxie SLAPS Arianna, right on the same spot she hit a couple weeks ago! Roxie bumps Arianna off buckles, then brings her around to bump her off more buckles. And then more buckles! Roxie finishes the full lap but Arianna blocks the bump!
Arianna storms up, whips Roxie to ropes, but Roxie ducks ‘n’ dodges then ducks again to CROSSBODY! Fans fire up and Roxie grabs an arm. Step over, La Magistrol to BRIDGE! TWO! Arianna flounders around, Roxie runs up, but Arianna catches her! Arianna back suplexes but Roxie lands on her feet. Roxie waistlocks, Arianna bucks the O’Conner and then BOOTS Roxie outta the ring! Arianna drags Roxie to the apron, has her in the ropes, for the GUILLOTINE CATAPULT! Fans boo but Arianna drags Roxie up to bump her off buckles. The fans rally for Roxie but Arianna bumps her off buckles again.
Arianna snarls as Roxie writhes, and Arianna brings her up. Arianna whips Roxie to a corner, runs in and ELBOWS her down! Then snap suplexes! Cover, TWO! Arianna keeps cool, and she pulls Roxie back. “Show ’em that pretty face!” Roxie endures the chinlock stretch and the fans rally up again. Roxie fights up, reaches out, but then pushes Arianna onto ropes! Then rolls her up! TWO! Arianna scowls, kicks low, and says she just tried to help Roxie! Arianna SMACKS Roxie off the mat but the fans continue to cheer Roxie on. Arianna smacks Roxie off the mat, then brings her up. Arianna pie faces Roxie, talks more, but Roxie catches an arm!
Arianna shoves free, but Roxie blocks the kick! Roxie fires off fast hands from all sides! Arianna shoves her, but Roxie ROCKS her! Then DROPKICKS her! Fans fire up with Roxie, then she runs in to UPPERCUT! And she ROCKS Arianna again! Roxie climbs up to rain down fists! The fans count but Arianna claws Roxie’s face at 6! Then she YANKS Roxie into the buckles, YANKS her off the corner, then reels her in. But Roxie throws elbows! Roxie hops on, POP ROX!! Cover, Roxie wins!
Winner: Roxanne Perez, by pinfall
Arianna tried to get dirty but Roxie’s battle tested. Arianna says Roxie still needs her help because she has issues. Roxie trips Arianna and rains down fists! The ref reprimands but Roxie won’t let off! Fans cheer Roxie on as she HAMMERS away on Arianna! Roxie clamps on a CROSSFACE!! Roxie says if Arianna wants to see crazy, here’s crazy! More refs rush out, they get Roxie to let Arianna go, but Roxie still wants more! Arianna scrambles away in fear, and the ref tells the ring announcer there’s a change in decision!? Roxie is now DISQUALIFIED?!?
Winner: Arianna Grace, by disqualification
Fans boo, Roxie only did all this after the match! And she’s only angrier now! Will Arianna’s big mouth get her in big trouble with this pint-sized Pitbull?
Ava Raine exits Shawn Michaels’ office.
Kelly Kincaid is there waiting and says a lot seems to be happening tonight. Ava says yes, last night on Raw Day One was crazy, and it has been unpredictable tonight. It was a tough decision for management to make, but Dragunov’s health is their top priority. And when Dragunov is cleared, he will defend his title against either Trick Williams or Grayson Waller. Then with Ava coming out of HBK’s office, her talking with superstars and helping make matches, just what is going on? Ava says it was brought to her attention by a Wise Man that as this brand grows, HBK needs help. That is where Ava comes in.
Ava has a “unique” relationship with the NXT roster, she has her own ideas, sometimes they work and sometimes they don’t. But one idea that does work is next week, the Men’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic returns! That’s exciting! Sure is. Happy New Year’s, everyone! What teams will we see join in and go for both the trophy and golden tickets?
Blair hobbles around backstage.
But then BANG, Nikkita Lyons spooks her. She says she could’ve easily taken Blair out right there, put her on the shelf for ten MONTHS, just like Blair did her. Blair says sure, but Lyons didn’t have the guts to pull the trigger. Some people either have the killer instinct or they only dream of it. Lyons says no, this is her showing the respect Blair failed to show her. Lyons taking Blair out in the back or in the parking lot doesn’t get her closer to the title. Lyons will do that in the ring. Blair says sure, but Lyons’ only chance IS taking Blair out from behind, not face to face. Lyons reminds Blair she knocked her head off face to face once before. Next time-
There won’t be a next time! Oh, there isn’t? Then fine, let’s go here and now! Refs and producers rush in to stop Blair and Lyons from getting into it, but this battle is inevitable. When and where will Lyons have her vengeance?
Loser Works for the Winner: Tiffany Stratton VS Fallon Henley!
As if the Wrestling Barbie wasn’t insufferable just being Daddy’s Little Rich Girl, she doubles down by talking down to the Cowgirl and others in her “station.” Tiffany thinks she should be in charge of everything and everyone, but Fallon wants to show the fruits of hard work. Will Tiffany get herself a new personal servant? Or will Fallon get herself a new ranch hand?
The bell rings and Fallon ROCKS Tiff! Then bumps her off buckles! And fires more hands! The fans fire up as Fallon whips but Tiff reverses, only for Fallon to run her over! Fallon TOSSES Tiff out, but Tiff drags Fallon out! Tiff goes to apron bump but Fallon blocks that to ROCK Tiff! The fans duel, Fallon SMACKS Tiff off the apron, then fireman’s carries. Tiff slips free and shoves but Fallon stops herself. Fallon ROCKS Tiff, runs up, but fakes the chop. Tiff ducks but then Fallon CHOPS her on the back! Fallon shoves Tiff in, storms up on her and covers, TWO! Fallon storms up but Tiff throws body shots.
Tiff snapmares, runs, but Fallon turn stomps into sunset flip! Tiff rolls through but Fallon drop toeholds! Then Fallon CALF KICKS Tiff! Tiff goes to the ropes, Fallon runs, slides, but Tiff grabs hair! Tiff POSTS Fallon! Fans boo, Tiff goes out to cartwheel and Alabama Lift, to SLAM Fallon on the apron! The fans boo more as NXT goes picture in picture.
Tiff mocks Fallon then soaks up the cheers and jeers. Tiff then SMACKS Fallon off the apron, puts her in the ring and covers, TWO! Tiff stomps Fallon in frustration and has her on the ropes. Tiff puts Fallon in a corner to CLUB her down. Tiff whips corner to corner hard, then storms up to SPLASH! Tiff whips corner to corner hard the other way, and Fallon falls. Tiff storms back up, pie faces Fallon then stomps her down. Fallon staggers to her feet but Tiff whips her hard into another corner. Fallon falls over again, Tiff storms up on her, and whips her one more time. Fallon reverses! Fallon runs in but Tiff dodges to throw Fallon down! Tiff storms up, covers, TWO!
Tiff is frustrated but she spins Fallon around to a chinlock stretch. Fallon endures, the fans rally up, but Tiff HIP DROPS Fallon down. Tiff stretches Fallon again, but Fallon endures and fights back up. Tiff thrashes Fallon but Fallon gets to her feet. Tiff knees low, and throws Fallon again! The ref reprimands but Tiff KICKS Fallon at the ropes. And KICKS again! But Fallon blocks the third! Tiff wants mercy but Fallon CHOPS her! And CHOPS again! Tiff staggers, Fallon storms up, but Tiff YANKS her into ropes! NXT returns to single picture as Tiff HIP ATTACKS against ropes! Tiff keeps moving, but Fallon dodges!
Fallon runs, Tiff dodges, and then they DOUBLE LARIAT! Fans fire up while both women are down! Tiff sits up first, she drags Fallon up to ROCK her! Fallon ROCKS Tiff back! The forearms keep going, the two stand up, and Tiff CLUBS Fallon. Tiff runs, into a SOBAT! Fallon ROCKS Tiff, then LARIATS! And FACEBUSTERS! Tiff goes to a corner, Fallon ELBOWS her in the corner, then stomps a mudhole in! Fallon is fired up and so are the fans! Fallon goes out to RAM Tiff into barriers! Fallon puts Tiff back in, climbs up the corner, and CROSSBODIES! Cover, TWO! Tiff is hanging tough, she isn’t a former champ for nothing.
Tiff goes to ropes, Fallon storms up on her and whips. Tiff reverses to knee low, then runs. Cartwheel and lift, but Fallon makes it a CRUCIFIX DRIVER! Cover, TWO!! Tiff survives but Fallon stays focused. Fallon reels Tiff in, but Tiff fights the suplex and Fallon’s back hurts! Tiff whips, Fallon goes up and over but again the back comes into play. Tiff hits a SPINEBUSTER! High stack, TWO! Tiff is furious and she hauls Fallon up. Fireman’s carry, ROLLING SENTON! PRETTIEST MOONSAULT- NO, Fallon moves in time! Tiff runs back in, but into an ELBOW! Fallon goes up and up, but Tiff SHOVES her! Fallon BODY SCISSORS Tiff up and out with her!!
Both women hit the floor and fans are a bit worried. Fallon and Tiff rise so the fans rally again. Fallon ROCKS Tiff, Tiff ROCKS Fallon! Tiff ducks a haymaker to fireman’s carry! Fallon holds ropes, so Tiff gives her SNAKE EYES off the apron! Tiff puts Fallon in at 5 of 10, and then grabs a chair!? There are still disqualifications on this, Tiff, you’ll end up a ranch hand! Fallon BOOTS Tiff, the ref wants the chair but Tiff is stubborn. The chair is let go, the SHINING WIZARD hits! Fallon wins!!
Winner: Fallon Henley, by pinfall (Tiffany will work for her)
Tiff’s rich brat temper got the better of her, and now she’s gotta work on the farm! Fallon tells Tiff it’s time to go, how will Daddy’s Little Rich Girl handle The Simple Life?
HBK tweets!
“New Year’s Evil is off to a hot start. Just got a call from a former NXT Champion who wants to stop by and watch the new main event.” Who could this former champ be? Will it be a better surprise than Jinder Mahal showing up on Raw?
Baron Corbin finds Bron Breakker backstage.
He also kinda interrupts Bron’s phone call. Bron asks what the hell Corbin wants. Corbin says to drop the tough guy attitude for just a second. Did Bron hear what Ava said tonight? No, he did not. Oh, shocker. But the Dusty Classic is starting up next week, and against every single fiber of his being, Corbin thinks these two would be a good team. Bron chuckles and asks, “Really?” Corbin is coming to Bron, to be his tag partner? Corbin must be desperate. Well if Bron’s brain is a quarter the size of his ego, just… Wow, Bron’s ego? Yeah, Bron’s ego. Look around! Is anyone else wanting to be Bron’s tag partner?
The answer Bron is looking for is no. And why? Because Bron is a smug, arrogant A-hole. Well it takes one to know one. If Bron is so bad, why does Corbin still want to be his partner? Because they’re BOTH A-holes. Okay, Bron sees that. So Corbin figures, they could destroy everyone in the tournament and win those tag titles. Bron thinks, and Corbin senses the lightbulb turning on. Bron does agree with the destroying part. Bron can see it now! See what? Bron leads the team, him and Baldie Corbin. That’d be great. Uh, Bron’s not leading anything. Corbin will destroy everyone while Bron puts on like his third, fourth or fifth coat of tanner.
Bron chuckles again and says okay. They’ll do it. See you next week. Bron leaves Corbin hanging on the fist bump, but then comes back to quickly dap. This team really is gonna be #MeanerThanEvil, but can it coexist past the first round?
Oba Femi speaks.
“Oba. A name given to rulers who possess an undeniable power. You’ve all witnessed it throughout the course of this tournament. See, I come from the beautiful country of Nigeria, the heartbeat of Africa. 230 MILLION people built on a culture where strength is not only revered, but expected. And I stand head and shoulders above the rest. So tonight, I take my final step towards my contract, and Riley Osborne will crumble under my feet. Nigeria truly is the giant of Africa. And when I win this Breakout Tournament, Oba Femi will be the Giant of NXT!”
Gigi Dolin talks with some of the other women in the locker room.
She talks about how she finally felt comfortable in her own skin, so she doesn’t need New Year’s Resolutions. But then Cora Jade walks in and asks what is wrong with this picture. Uh, what is wrong? Seems like they’re all enjoying their time without Cora’s negativity. Cora says wrong. Gigi is in Cora’s spot. Oh, is she? Oops, Gigi got it confused. Can Cora please please please~ find it in her heart to forgive Gigi? The others snicker at the sarcasm. And then Gigi gets serious by saying when Cora doesn’t respect other people, she can’t expect others to respect her. Cora says this is typical Gigi. And Cora’s being typical Cora. New look, same dreadful attitude.
Gigi says we all know where this is going. Cora says yeah, and it’s not a place Gigi wants to go. Oh, but Gigi is pretty sure she does. The others step in to stop this from popping off, but will the Toxic Avenger tear down the #GenerationOfJade?
Ridge Holland sits down for an interview.
Sarah Schreiber is with Ridge, and she brings up how this return to NXT is about redemption. Now, there’s a lot that has been said and made about Ridge’s actions since returning. Ridge said he is no stranger to mishaps in the ring, what can he tell us about his journey to this point? Ridge says she’s spot on about that. Ridge is no stranger to injuries, mishaps and accidents. Just as his career was starting to take off, starting on that upward climb up the ladder, it was WarGames 2020, Ridge was gonna be on the same team as Pat McAfee. But then tragedy struck and Ridge blew both legs out, as well as dislocated and fractured an ankle.
Ridge felt in that moment it was all over. He was down on the ramp, looking up at the lights, wondering if this is how it ends for him. How can he go home and tell his wife, who was pregnant with their twin boys at the time, that “Sorry, love, I dragged you away from your family, from your home, to try out this new life in the States.” How could he do that and say they had to go back? This is how he feeds their family, pays their bills, keeps a roof over their heads. But Sarah notes he did recover, he did come back, and he helped form The Brawling Brutes. It was Ridge, “Butch” Pete Dunne & Sheamus, all doing big things on SmackDown.
Ridge says it’s bittersweet now. He appreciated Sheamus and Dunne helping him. Ridge gets flashbacks to that first PLE together, just last year at Day One on Sunday. Yet it feels like yesterday when he got those knees smashing his nose. The injury bug, the black cloud, reconstructive surgery. But he picked himself up again. You have to when you’re not the only one in the equation, when you’re not the only one relying on you. Sarah says weeks ago, Ridge returns to NXT, and he got the opportunity to show how he stacks up against THE NXT Champion, Ilja Dragunov. It was an abrupt ending and a lot of questions, but the real question is: Who is the Ridge Holland he wants us to see?
Ridge takes a breath, and says he respects Dragunov immensely. And every word that came out of Ridge’s mouth a couple weeks ago, he meant. When the bell rang, when whatever happened happened, it was not malicious, there was no ill will. Ridge is a dad, a husband, a friend, not a monster. Not someone who aimlessly wants to hurt someone and take away their livelihood. Because Ridge knows what that feels like, how fast things can be taken away. He doesn’t have it in him to do that to someone, it’s not in his DNA. But the point still stands that Ridge is here for a reason, and that is to prove to everybody who Ridge really is.
Ridge will go through the roster, man by man, to prove himself and find redemption. And he will show the NXT Universe just who Ridge Holland truly is, no preconceptions. Sarah thanks Ridge for his time and wishes him luck. Will Northern Grit be able to accomplish his goals without fear or trepidation?
Men’s Breakout Tournament Finals: Riley Osborne VS Oba Femi!
Speaking of proving themselves, Turbo Terry is the speed, but “The Ruler” is the strength. Will this be Riley’s David VS Goliath moment? Or will Oba be more like Godzilla?
As Riley heads for gorilla, Thea Hail & Jacy Jayne are around the corner. Thea is nervous but Jacy gives her a big push. Thea says sup! Just wanna let you know, she’ll be out there to root for him. He’ll be great! Good luck! Thanks so much, see you there. High-five! Riley heads out, Thea has a freak out and doesn’t wanna wash her hand ever again! Jacy wouldn’t go that far but sure. Thea high-fives herself as she continues to go nuts, will she and all of the Chase U Student Section get to go nuts after tonight?
The introductions are made, the contract awaits, and we see who truly breaks out in the New Year!
The bell rings and Oba RAMS Riley right to a corner! Riley goes up, kicks Oba away, then resets with him. They circle, Riley kicks, dodges, then kicks again! And steps up to ENZIGURI! Riley runs to SHOT- NO, Oba denies the dropkick! But Riley avoids the elbow drop! Riley facelocks but Oba powers up. Oba lifts and TOSSES Riley, Riley rebounds but Oba scoops. Riley slips free to CHOP BLOCK! Oba drops to a knee, Riley runs and BOOTS! Riley keeps moving, but Oba choke grips! Riley throws hands but Oba just grins! Oba SHOVES Riley up and out! Fans fire up while Oba storms out after Riley.
Oba drags Riley up, puts him in, and then runs, but Riley dumps him out! Fans fire up more, and Riley sees Thea cheering him on. Riley hurries to the apron, runs up, and BOOTS! Oba wobbles, but he comes back to CHOP Riley down!! Even Thea can’t breathe! Everyone goes nuts from how that echoed, and NXT goes picture in picture.
Riley gets in the ring, Oba storms back in after him, and then whips him to back drop high and hard! Riley writhes but Oba brings him back up. Oba UPPERCUTS Riley, and Riley flounders. Oba KICKS Riley to the corner, digs his boots in, and then drags Riley up. Oba YANKS the arm, kicks Riley around, then CLUBS him down. Oba looms over Riley, whips him corner to corner hard, and Riley falls. Oba scuffs Riley, drags him back up, and scoops him to SLAM him! Then Oba scoops Riley to SLAM him again! Cover, TWO! Oba keeps cool, and he brings Riley up again. Oba shoves and scoops Riley, for a PENDULUM BACKBREAKER!
Riley writhes, Oba pushes him to a cover, TWO! Oba is annoyed but he drags Riley back up. Oba knees low, CLUBS him down, then CLUBS him again! Riley flounders to a corner, but he CHOPS back! And fires forearms! Oba DECKS Riley! Riley is sprawled against ropes but Oba hauls him up. Oba has a BEARHUG! Riley endures the squeeze, throws some elbows, and NXT returns to single picture. Oba picks Riley up to put that bearhug on the lower back. The fans rally as Riley continues to endure, and Riley throws elbows. Oba knees low, whips Riley to a corner, then gets him on the rebound for another bearhug!
Riley still endures and the Chase U Student Section rallies as hard as they can. Riley throws elbows, but Oba squeezes tight! Riley throws forearm after forearm, and Oba lets go! But that’s so he can clinch and IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! Riley writhes and Oba shakes out the leg. Oba has fans cheering “O~BA! HOO! O~BA! HOO!” Oba drags Riley up, and its’ back to the BEARHUG! Oba thrashes Riley, squeezes tight, but Riley doesn’t give in! The Chase U Section fires up as Riley throws forearms! But Oba spins Riley around, only for Riley to JAWBREAKER! Oba holds on, Riley JAWBREAKERS again! Oba CLUBS Riley down!
Oba shakes his head, storms up and UPPERCUTS Riley to a corner. Oba digs his forearms into Riley, the ref counts, and Oba lets off at 4. Oba whips corner to corner, runs in, but Riley moves! Oba POSTS himself! Fans fire up as Riley hurries up to CHOP! Riley whips, Oba reverses but Riley slips around. But Oba blocks the crucifix takedown! So Riley sunset flips it! But Oba drags Riley back up! Oba swings, misses, Riley tilt-o-whirl RANAS! And then DROPKICKS! Oba is finally down! The fans fire up as Riley hurries to STANDING MARIPOSA! Cover, TWO! Oba is tough, too, but Riley doesn’t give up.
Riley runs corner to corner, and he UPPERCUTS! Oba ROCKS Riley right back! Oba whips, Riley goes up but Oba puts him on the apron. Riley shoulders in, ROUNDHOUSES and Oba falls again! Riley goes up and up, but Oba’s up, too! Riley front-flips over Oba, keeps moving, and CALF KICKS Oba down! Fans fire up as Riley hurries to the corner! Riley climbs, Jacy fans Thea while she cheers Riley. SHOOTING STAR ONTO KNEES! And then the scoop, SNAKE EYES in the corner, then the SHOT PUT BOMB!! Oba is all fired up as he waits on Riley. Riley stands, into the POP-OP POWERBOMB!! Cover, Oba wins!!
Winner: Oba Femi, by pinfall (2024 Breakout Tournament Winner)
The Chase U section is stunned silent, but The Ruler has his key to the throne! Will whoever is NXT Champion in the near future have to keep their head on a swivel?
Out The Mud speaks.
Bronco Nima tells Tony D’Angelo, “Escucha me bien, cuz uh, from what we’ve see, you’ve had a good run, boss man. But sabes que, after Lucien and I are done with you and your boy, all you’re gonna have left is a nickname.” Price adds that Stacks should keep that nickname. Because these two are gonna make it rain. And if Tony & Stacks are family, these two are connected from the bottom up like the letter V. And what do they know about the bottom? The D’Angelos might be champs now, but OTM doesn’t see the hunger. Tony & Stacks forgot what it’s like to not know where their next meal is coming from. To go to bed with nothing but acid in your stomach.
OTM has been starving! They hungry! Gold in their mouths, around their necks, and on their ears, so the only thing missing is the gold around their waists! This may not be OTM’s field, but Tony & Stacks are gonna feel what it’s like to play their game! Matter of fact, OTM will let you in on their playbook: power, speed, and nothing you can do about it. Nada! Scrypts then speaks up that the D’Angelos don’t even need to say much. OTM beat the streets, beat the system, and made it through. Next week, they’ll pull that punk card and become the NEW NXT Tag Team Champions.
Backstage interview with Kiana James & Izzi Dame.
Kelly is with The Calculator and her new sidekick to say that since Deadline, these two have been quite the pair. How did this partnership come about? Izzi says that everyone saw her sling that door shut on Roxie. Did you see the social media comments on it, though? “Who is that? What is she doing? Who who who?” What, you all a bunch of owls? But that’s how Izzi knew she made the right decision. Kiana has the best business mind in all of WWE, and joining with her was a no brainer. Kiana then says Izzi is a Triple Threat: loyal to a T, unlimited potential, and Kiana’s personal favorite, Izzi is not afraid to stomp on whoever she has to in order to get ahead.
Izzi isn’t shy of conflict, either. Never have been, never will be. She used to hit volleyballs and b*tches in her free time. If anyone had issue, she’d handle it. Kiana sees Izzi and sees dollar signs. In this business, you either make friends or you make money. She’s Kiana James, she will change that. She has a friend in Izzi, and it is time to make money. In 2023, Kiana made it crystal clear that she is a threat to the Women’s Division. In 2024, with Kiana’s help, everyone will know who Izzi Dame is. These two head out, will they take over NXT and then the WWE?
Trick Melo Gang talks backstage.
Melo gives Trick pointers on Waller. Take the legs out and then it’s easy. Are they all good? Trick again asks Melo how he could put the #1 contender’s spot on the line! Melo says Trick has this in the bag! When Trick wins the title, he’s gotta be ready to take on all comers anywhere, anytime! Time to start practicing like they play. And Trick’s talking about doing the impossible and beating Dragunov anyway. Trick agrees, he is The One. But putting up the title match is crazy! Melo says Trick isn’t seeing it how he’s seeing it. Melo wouldn’t have said that if he didn’t think Trick could handle it. And Melo will be by Trick’s side regardless.
Whoa, whoa, whoa. They talked about this before. Trick wants to handle this himself. He wants to face Dragunov by himself, he wants to face Waller by himself. Trick wants to do this how he’s always done it: by himself. Oh, by himself? So when they were hoopin’ in the gym. Trick was by himself? Well, okay, no. But Trick’s gotta run this play by himself. Melo nods and says okay. Trick hopes Melo feels what he’s saying. Melo does feel it. Trick heads out, but is Melo feeling the way Trick hopes he’s feeling? Or will Melo prove that Trick needs… HIM?
Thea & Jacy return backstage.
Thea says Riley had Oba, he was so close! Jacy agrees. Thea is sure Riley must be so sad right now. She should text! Jacy agrees, but then Thea hesitates. No, she’ll buy a gift card! Uh, no. Let Riley cool down for now. Duke Hudson & Professor Chase walk in, and the Chase U MVP says Riley did one hell of a job. Chase says Riley represented The U with pride. But speaking of tournaments, Mr. MVP, get your head in the game because the Dusty Cup is coming up. Jacy says no no no. She is taking over. With all due respect, Chase, but going by your track record, you can’t focus on two things at once.
Therefore, Chase’s first and only focus is his debt. And since everyone thought Riley did amazing, it will be Duke & Riley in the Cup. O M G! Thea says that’s the best idea ever! Chase speaks up but Jacy tells him to hush. Chase University, his university, hangs in the balance and he can’t say he’s handling it well, because it’s all over his face. And under his eyes. But don’t worry, Jacy will get them the money, with Thea’s help. Jacy is gonna dig down deep, grab Chase U and pull it up from the depths of Hell and back to prominence. Jacy likes her plan already. But how?
Chase U heads out, and we see Tatum sneaking up on Lyra again. Tatum is all excited as she congratulates Lyra on still being NXT Women’s Champion. Lyra is creeped out as Tatum says that so long as Lyra is champion, all is right in the world. BYE~! Uh, thanks? Just what is going on inside Tatum’s twisted mind?
Axiom & Nathan Frazer talk backstage.
The Undeniable Truth says, “He’s unstoppable. What do you think?” The Jersey Island Rocket says, “Yeah, nice try, pal. I’m not saying anything about either man, because knowing my luck, they’ll morph through this freakin’ wall as soon as I’m about to give an answer.” Axiom says okay, don’t worry. But what about The Dusty Cup? Is Frazer in? Oh, now we’re talking! Axiom’s technical wizardry and Frazer’s pure speed, he always thought they’d make a great team. Axiom says they will be so good, dynamic, and make a lot of noise in that tournament. Brooks Jensen is in the background, and he leaves, not wanting to hear tag team talk.
Frazer says not only will they make noise, but they will be the ones to win it all! Truth be told, “all the other established tag teams have failed miserably.” Oh no, Malik Blade & Edris Enofe hear him! Frazer says the NXT Tag Division needs a major revamp. Axiom tries to signal with his hands, but Frazer misunderstands. The rest of the division is here, but Axiom & Frazer are up here! Axiom sighs and Frazer realizes his mistake. There’s someone behind him. Yep. Oh, hey, Malik! Edris! Looking forward to the Dusty Cup? Edris echoes Frazer, then says, “Looking forward to shutting you up.”
Malik says just because Axiom & Frazer are friends doesn’t mean they make a good team. But you’ll see it in this year’s Dusty. And Edris hopes he and Malik are the ones to prove it to them. Malik & Edris head out, and Frazer sighs. Every time! He doesn’t understand! Axiom says normally, he’d let Frazer fend for himself. But since they’re a team now, they’ll do this together. They shake on it, and more of the Dusty Cup field is filling out! Will these super friends soon find themselves holding up the trophy?
The D’Angelo Family heads out.
Tony points out something in the books to Adriana and she agrees. NXT Media asks the Family their response to the comments made by OTM. Tony says first, Mr. Chase isn’t even close to being off the hook with them. Chase’s losing ways now puts Tony & Stacks on the hook for a tag title match. Stacks says they’re giving Chase a little too much grace. But regardless, a deal’s a deal, and these OTM wise guys are running their mouths a little too much. Adriana says worry about OTM next week. You gonna keep flappin’ your gums like a fish, or are you gonna introduce her? Right, right.
Ladies and gentlemen, you’ve probably seen her do business for them a couple weeks now. This is the glue of the D’Angelo Family, Adriana Rizzo. How ya doin’? Rizz takes care o’ bizz, she gets the job done. And if you wanna be a wise ass, she’ll punch you in the mouth. And she says that goes for them, too. Stacks says let’s get going. They go to load their trunk, and JOE GACY pops out!? He asks how they doin’. Sorry about this, he needed a quiet place to think. Nice trunk, by the way. Uh, Gacy, how long were you in there? Hmm… Two hours. Oh, okay… And what about-
The other guy in there? Oh yeah, Gacy knew you were taking him to the bridge, so he went and did that for them. See ya! Wait, what? Huh? Well, Gacy’s strange ways aside, will The Don & Stacks handle business by checking OTM off the list?
NXT Championship #1 Contender’s Match: Trick Williams VS Grayson Waller!
On the first NXT of 2024, it’s Iron Survivor VS Iron Survivor with the shot at The Mad Dragon on the line! Will Trick be immune to the Grayson Waller Effect? Or will Waller be the one to #WhoopDatTrick?
The bell rings and the two stare down. The fans fire up, Trick lets Waller know this is HIS NXT now. The fans chant “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” but Waller JABS! Waller throws hands on Trick in the corner while the fans boo but the ref counts. Waller lets off to talk trash, then he storms back up on Trick. Waller snap suplexes, covers, ONE! Waller talks more trash, drags Trick up and whips him to ropes. Trick sunset flips but Waller rolls through. Trick ducks the Penalty Kick, things speed up and Trick hurdles to DROPKICK! Trick scoops to SLAM Waller, and then he scoops and SLAMS again! Trick scoops again but Waller slips free.
Waller shoves, Trick ducks ‘n’ dodges to DROPKICK again! Then he scoop SLAMS, covers, TWO! Trick stays on Waller, brings him up for knees, then the SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Fans fire up with Trick as Waller staggers up. Waller avoids the spin kick and bails out. Fans boo but Trick keeps cool. Trick storms out after Waller but Waller trips him up! Waller brings Trick out but Trick counter punches him! The fans tell Waller he’s an Aussie A-Hole, and Trick has Waller against barriers. Trick has everyone hush real quick, then he CHOPS! Waller sputters and staggers away and the fans love it!
Waller kicks Trick back, CLUBS him, then tells Booker, “This your guy?” Booker says yeah, what about it? Waller whips, but then Trick reverses, sending Waller over the desk! Waller hits barriers on the way down, and Trick gets on the desk to fire up with the fans! Booker says stay on Waller, Trick hurries in but Waller dodges to ROLLING ELBOW! Waller runs up to BOOT Trick to the floor! Waller keeps moving and he slides, to LARIAT Trick down! Fans boo and Waller says Trick just got whooped, but NXT goes picture in picture.
Waller drags Trick up, puts him against barriers, and he CHOPS! Fans boo but Waller mocks Trick. Waller then has Trick against barriers again for body shots! Waller puts Trick in the ring, taunts the fans, then slides in. Waller storms up on Trick, drags him up, and suplexes, only for Trick to cradle counter! TWO, and Waller ELBOWS Trick down! Waller soaks up the heat from the fans, goes back for Trick, and drops a knee on Trick’s head! Waller drags Trick back up, CLUBS him down, and then stalks him. Trick reaches for ropes, Waller stands on Trick’s head, then steps away. Waller taunts the fans, drags Trick up again and whips him hard into a corner!
Trick bounces off buckles and falls, and Waller does push-ups just to show off. Waller wrenches and CHOPS Trick, whips him, but Trick sunset flips! Waller stays up, drags Trick around and CLUBS him on the neck! Waller then clamps onto Trick for HAMMER ‘N’ ANVIL ELBOWS! Cover, TWO! Waller mocks the fans then slaps Trick around. Waller drags Trick up but Trick throws body shots! Trick fires haymakers, whips, but Waller blocks by holding ropes. Waller BOOTS Trick, then CLOBBERS him! Cover, TWO! Waller fumes, soaks up the heat, and then facelocks Trick to grind him down. NXT returns to single picture as the fans rally up.
Waller suplexes but Trick fights it again. Waller throws body shots, still tries a suplex, but Trick suplexes Waller up and over instead! The fans fire up again, Trick fires forearms and haymakers on Waller from all sides, and the fans fire up! The ref counts as Waller is in the corner, but Trick lets off. Trick whips corner to corner, but Waller goes up and STOMPS Trick down! Cover, TWO!! Trick is still in this but Waller stays focused. Trick goes to the apron, Waller storms over, and Waller POSTS Trick! Waller climbs up the corner to have Trick in a HANGING HALF CRAB! The fans boo and the ref counts, but Waller lets off at 4.
Waller tells the ref to watch that count, but the ref says Waller should watch it. Waller drags Trick to center, drops ELBOW after ELBOW, then clamps on the HALF CRAB! Waller sits deep while mocking the fans chanting for Trick. Trick endures, the fans rally, but Waller sits even deeper! Trick claws his way around, reaches out, and he has the ROPEBREAK! Waller holds on, lets go, and says this is his house. Waller taunts Trick, “You wanna be the guy, huh?” Waller CLUBS Trick! Waller tells Trick to understand: Trick isn’t on Waller’s level, he isn’t on Melo’s level, he doesn’t belong here. Trick SLAPS Waller!! Fans fire up as Waller falls back!
Waller staggers up, swings, but misses! Trick fires haymakers and body shots, then an UPPERCUT! Trick whips, Waller reverses but Trick FLYING LARIATS! And then ELBOWS! And then FLAPJACKS! Waller flounders to the apron but Trick runs up, only for Waller to HOTSHOT! Somersault, but into the HAYMAKER!! Cover, TWO!! Waller survives but Trick stays cool. Trick stomps Waller around, the fans rally behind him again, and Trick throws forearms on Waller. Trick drags Waller up, throws knees, but Waller fights the turn to cravat and knee, knee, KNEE! Trick goes to a corner, Waller rushes over.
Waller puts Trick up top, climbs up after him, but Trick throws body shots! Trick then changes positions so he can clinch, and SUPER BOOKEND!! Cover, ROPEBREAK!! Waller survives by a literal foot, and Trick is furious! Waller bails out, Trick hurries after him, but Waller HOTSHOTS that arm! Somersault, COMPLETE SHOT!! Waller changes it up, covers, TWO!!! Waller is fuming, and he rains down forearms on Trick! The fans rally as hard as they can but Waller goes to the corner. Waller goes along the rope, for the BALLER ELBOW FLOP!! Trick avoids the dunk, to then NECKBREAKER! Fans fire up as Trick aims from a corner!
Wait, Melo is here now!? He was told to stay backstage! Trick argues with his friend, but Waller is aiming his shot! WAIT! IS THAT KEVIN OWENS!? Kevin DECKS Waller!! And then feeds him into the ring! Trick hits the FLASH KNEE!! Cover, Trick WINS!!
Winner: Trick Williams, by pinfall (still #1 Contender to the NXT Champion)
The Prizefighter, the former NXT Champion, just smiles and shrugs. He made sure Waller didn’t get what he wanted, but it’s hard to say if Melo was helping Trick keep what he earned. One way or another, Trick is still going to get his shot at Ilja Dragunov, when and where will we see that happen?
My Thoughts:
A great NXT, but a bit of a shame on the changed plans. Dragon Lee apparently had some work visa issues, so he couldn’t be here for tonight. Great adlib, though, having Carlito join the Six Man Tag. Great win for LWO, and Dragon Lee will be back so surely he and Gulak will have a title match between now and Vengeance Day. And Dragunov not being able to defend the title tonight feels like more story stuff to give this a little more time to build. I don’t know if that’s a sign Trick is going to win or lose, but we still got great stuff out of Trick, Melo, Waller and even Kevin showing up to get his shot on Waller. Though that seemed just kinda mean on Kevin’s part, since Kevin already beat Waller in the US Championship Contender’s Tournament.
Great NXT Women’s Championship match as the opener, great showing for Blair but great win for Lyra. And great move to have Lola attempt a cash-in, but of course Tatum interfered. Tatum being Lyra’s stalker is still an odd move, but maybe she and Lyra have a tag match against Lopez & Lola, and somehow, this leads to Tatum getting her own title shot at Vengeance Day. Lyons VS Blair would also make sense as a Vengeance Day match, but they might have it out sooner so that the winner (probably Lyons) moves on to be a challenger as well. Great match from Fallon VS Tiffany, and great win for Fallon. Can’t wait to see Fallon make Tiffany work on the farm and how hilariously awful that’s gonna go for Tiffany.
Good stuff out of Roxie VS Arianna, and I actually like that Roxie went so far as to the ref reversing his decision. That hasn’t been done enough when someone, Face or Heel, goes overboard after a match, so I like how it adds some more dimension to Roxie’s overall story. Good promo from Gigi and Cora to get themselves a match, that’ll be really good stuff, too. And good promo from Kiana & Izzi to fully establish themselves as a duo. Just not sure if there are enough teams for a Women’s Dusty Cup right now. I do like Ava establishing herself as Assistant to the GM (or just Assistant GM maybe?) as she announces the Men’s Dusty Cup.
Great promos stemming from that news, too. I sensed last week Corbin wanting to team up with Bron, so here we are. And then another good “foot in mouth” promo from Frazer where he now upsets a tag team. I can feel it right now that Corbin & Bron and Axiom & Frazer are gonna go far, maybe even fight over the trophy and the title shot. Really good promo from OTM to call out the tag champs, and good promo from The D’Angelos to respond. A formal introduction to Adriana is a bit redundant now, we’ve all seen her for weeks, just as they said. I feel like The D’Angelos will retain so as to make them put more pressure on Chase U.
And great stuff in the Men’s Breakout Tournament finals tonight. Thea got one step closer to making a connection with Riley but Riley also lost. I figured Oba would win, though, he really is just a massive man. He’ll easily cash his contract in on whoever is champion. And I like that Jacy is stepping in to call the shots for Chase U. Riley & Duke will make a good combo in the Dusty Cup but again, The D’Angelos might turn up the heat. Not sure Jacy’s plan to get tons of money, but this will be an interesting stretch in this story.
My Score: 8.8/10
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IF YA SMELLALALALALALA~…!
As Cody Rhodes teams with Damian Priest & Braun Strowman against Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline, FINALLY, The Rock has come back to SmackDown!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso; Jimmy wins.
- The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & LA Knight; Miz & Melo win.
- Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae w/ Nia Jax; Tiff wins.
- Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez; No Contest.
- WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly; Pretty Deadly wins, by disqualification, and DIY retain the titles.
- Six Man Tag: Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga; changed to…
- Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga; Priest & Braun win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes talks with Nick Aldis backstage.
They shake hands, but the SmackDown General Manager tells the WWE Champion there’s been a change: Cody’s out of the Six Man Tag match. What? Why would Aldis do that? It is out of Aldis’s hands. Wait, Solo Sikoa shows up to do what he did, but they can’t do the Six Man Tag that they advertised? How is this out of Aldis’s hands? Who do they need to talk to so they can do the match? Aldis says there’s no one either of them can call, if you smell what’s cooking. This is coming from The Final Boss, and The Final Boss wants to see Cody in the ring tonight. What business could The Great One have with The American Nightmare?
Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso!
The Scottish Terminator rubbed it in Big Jim’s face that only one of them is going to Elimination Chamber in Toronto, which Big Jim was able to brush off. But McIntyre harping on how only one Uso is going to WrestleMania was a step too far. These two look to have it out, but is Jimmy just playing into McIntyre’s hands? Or will McIntyre get embarrassed by “the other Uso” this close to that big time match?
Speaking of, Jimmy has a message for Drew as he heads to gorilla. “Everybody know you’re going to Elimination Chamber, right? But Big Jimmy got a question for the Big Easy: Will Drew go onto the Elimination Chamber and win that? Will Drew go onto WrestleMania and win that? Ey, Drew, I think we got an answer for you, Uce. The answer is…” “NO YEET!” Jimmy makes his entrance, the bell rings, and the fans rally behind Jimmy. Jimmy and Drew jaw, and then Drew raises his hands, to say UP YOURS! But Jimmy ROCKS and CHOPS away! Drew puts Jimmy in a corner, Jimmy dodges to CHOP!
Jimmy climbs and he rains down fists! The fans count, Drew dumps Jimmy tot eh apron at 5, but Jimmy GAMANGIRIS! Jimmy goes up, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Jimmy hurries to CHOP, then he whips. Drew reverses to send Jimmy to the corner. Jimmy BOOTS back, goes up, and leaps, but into a clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders to a corner, Drew runs up to SPLASH and OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders again, the ref has Drew hold on, and Jimmy bails out. Drew storms out to get Jimmy and he whips Jimmy HARD into barrier! The fans boo but Drew looms over Jimmy.
The ring count starts, Drew mockingly calls him “Jey,” then puts Jimmy in the ring. Drew says NO MANIA for Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, ROCKS him, then runs up, only for Jimmy to put him on the apron! Drew blocks a superkick, but not the DRAGON WHIP! Drew drops, Jimmy DIVES! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! Jimmy grins, goes back to the apron, and then aims. But Drew stops the Penalty Kick to THROW Jimmy down! Drew then has Jimmy in the Reverse Alabama Lift! REVERSE ALABAMA SLAM onto the steel steps! Drew stands on the desk to say “NO YEET!” while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew revels in the heat from New Orleans, then he leaves Jimmy behind. The ref checks Jimmy, he’s able to continue, so a ring count starts. Drew paces while Jimmy stirs. Jimmy drags himself up using the desk, then lunges in at 9! Drew is annoyed but he rains down fists! Drew stomps Jimmy, then eggs him on. Jimmy rises as the fans rally, but Drew is right on him in the corner. Drew winds up, but Jimmy counter punches! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And whips, only for Drew to reverses. Jimmy goes up, but Drew KICKS him out of the air! Drew then hauls Jimmy up, snap suplex! Cover, TWO!
Drew says okay, Big Jim. He clamps onto Jimmy with a top wristlock and grinds the arm. Jimmy fights up, fireman’s carries, but Drew elbows free. Drew bumps Jimmy off buckles, then hauls him up to the top rope! Drew CLUBS Jimmy on the back, climbs up, then CLUBS Jimmy more. Jimmy fires elbows and Drew drops back. But Drew runs up to CLUB Jimmy again! SmackDown returns to single picture as Drew CLUBS away on Jimmy again! Jimmy keeps taunting “Jey,” then drags him up. Jimmy fights the back suplex! The fans rally, Jimmy fires hands and a HEADBUTT! Jimmy SMACKS Drew off the post!
Jimmy rises to USO IN THE WIND! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! A standing count starts while both men stir on the mat. They both stand at 5, and Drew swings! Jimmy counter punches, then fires more shots! Mule kick, UPPERCUT, but then Jimmy dodges Drew! SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Drew is tougher than that, but Jimmy hurries to a corner. Jimmy aims as Drew goes to the other corner, “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs, but Drew FLYING HEADBUTTS! The Glasgow Kiss stuns Jimmy, and Drew hits a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Jimmy shows his own toughness, and the fans rally behind him.
Drew paces, then he stalks Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, reels him in, but Jimmy fights the underhooks! Jimmy wrenches, UPPERCUTS, but Drew ROCKS Jimmy back! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, Drew HAYMAKERS! Drew whips, Jimmy reverses and Drew ends up on the apron! Drew ROCKS Jimmy first, then climbs the corner! FLYING- SUPERKICK! Jimmy runs to SPEAR! Cover, TWO!! Drew survives, Jimmy’s spear doesn’t hit quite like The Tribal Chief’s. Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and the fans rally up. USO- NO, Jimmy rolls through as Drew moves! Drew dodges a lariat to NECKBREAKER!
Both men are down, the fans rally, and Drew kips up! Drew scowls as he aims at Jimmy. “THREE! TWO! ONE!” CLAY- SUPERKICK!! Jimmy hits first! GLASGOW KISS returns! Drew reels Jimmy in, “This is your WrestleMania! This is as close as you get!” Drew shouts Jimmy is nothing, then ROCKS him with forearm after forearm! GLAWSGO KISS! Another Reverse Alabama, but Jimmy victory rolls it! JIMMY WINS!!!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Drew is furious, but his own ego caught him there! But then Drew CLOBBERS Jimmy! The fans boo Drew being a sore loser, but he puts Jimmy back in the ring! Drew rains down fists, then he DRIBBLES Jimmy off the mat! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but Drew says that was Jimmy’s Mania Moment! Drew will win the Chamber, he will go to Mania, and he will win there! Jimmy means NOTHING to Drew! Drew puts Jimmy up against the post, then takes aim! The fans boo, but refs and producers rush out here! They swarm Drew to keep him from going after Jimmy again. Drew says fine, fine, then takes his leave.
Producers help Jimmy to his feet, but then Drew BLASTS through the refs! CLAYMORE for Jimmy!! The Scottish Terminator hits his target, then laughs as he actually leaves. Will McIntyre make this his Road to WrestleMania?
A car pulls into the parking lot.
And out steps Solo Sikoa. Solo heads inside, and he finds Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga waiting. Solo tells them that last week with Tama, that was an accident. Jacob says yeah, it’s all good, Uce. But keep it 100: If it wasn’t an accident, Solo wouldn’t be standing here right now. Well, good! Glad to see we’re all on the same page. Solo says he will be in the corner during the match for Jacob & Tama. Uh, no, Solo, no disrespect, but Jacob & Tama have been running things on SmackDown these past couple weeks. So tonight, it’s Jacob & Solo running the play? Yadada mean? Yeah, of course. And that right there, Jacob, is exactly why Solo loves him.
Solo says he’ll be back, he has to talk with Nick Aldis. Solo heads out, but will he really just step right back into place from before he lost the ula fala?
Carmelo Hayes is backstage.
R-Truth calls out to Melo, and says for the first time ever, Truth VS Melo! What’s Truth talking about? Duh, they have a match. No, Truth, Melo knows. But they had a match last week. Truth says he has never met Melo in his life, but they have a tag match tonight. What? No, they don’t. Who even made this match? Him. Truth, they are not going through this H1M who’s on first thing again. Melo is H1M. No, him made the match. The Miz!? Miz says he’s H1M. So now there’s two of you? No no no! Melo is H1M, this is The Miz! Yeah, #MeloDon’tMiz! NO! That’s not a thing! Tonight, they are. Who’s Truth’s partner?
Truth says he’s got a guy. A Louisiana legend! In fact, he just got here, so Truth’s gotta go. Laters. Miz says he has been workshopping this, and the fans love it. Think about it: Melo Don’t Miz! Melo Don’t Miz! And we are…! Melo shakes his head. Truth steps in and says Miz just wants Melo to say, “Awesome.” Miz offers a fist bump, Melo says no. Will Melo wish he had missed tonight’s show? Or will Miz actually help H1M get another win?
Zelina Vega speaks.
“My whole life, people have taken one look at me, and they try to define me. My size has never stopped me before. It never stopped me from becoming tag team champion. Or my personal favorite, the history-making first-time-ever Queen of the Ring. That’s me. Make no mistake about it, I’ve never had it easy. I had to scratch and claw to get anything around here. But this is a fresh start. Because I have something to prove. And my dreams are a lot bigger than your measuring stick. It ain’t over until Zelina Vega says it’s over.”
The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & ???
Miz makes his entrance but Melo kinda steps all over it. So he already missed his cue… But who did Truth find to team with him in the Big Easy? We’ll see, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Truth makes his entrance. “What’s up?” Well, more like who is his partner? He’ll tell us! His tag team partner is a local legend, born and bred right here in New Orleans! Ladies and gentlemen, welcome Louisiana Knight! Wait, he means L A Knight! Yes, Louisiana abbreviated is LA, but that’s not… Oh, Truth… Truth gives Knight a Po’ Boy and some Mardi Gras beads, so Knight embraces it. The teams sort out, and Truth calls out him! Does he mean Miz or Melo? Well, Melo says he is H1M, so that’s who starts. The fans cheer on Knight while Truth and Melo tie up. Melo KNEES low, whips, but Truth reverses.
Melo springboards, FADEAWAY JUMPER! Melo makes his free throw, but Truth drop toeholds! Truth headlocks, Melo powers up and out but Truth whips! Melo turns hip toss into lateral press, TWO! Truth has a ghost pin, TWO! Melo trips to cover, ONE! Truth trips to cover, ONE! Melo runs up, Truth does the splits, and then hits a BIG hip toss! The fans fire up, Truth counts, Melo gets up at TWO, but Truth was just goofing. The ref explains to Truth that he is the ref, not Truth! Melo is annoyed, he runs up on Truth, but Truth wrenches him around! Melo pulls hair but Knight tags in. The fans fire up as Knight fires hands!
Knight ROCKS Melo, whips Melo, but Melo reverses! SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Knight drags Melo up to tag Truth back in, and Truth ROCKS Melo! Melo staggers, but he refuses to tag! Truth arm-drags Melo, then grinds the arm. Melo insists he’s got this, then arm-drags free. Truth staggers up, he and Melo bump heads! Truth staggers around more, and he tags Miz?! Truth forgot The Awesome Truth isn’t a thing anymore! Again! Melo BLASTS Truth off the apron, the fans boo, but Miz tags himself in! Melo is annoyed, but Miz goes to fetch Truth while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again, and Melo has Truth. Truth ROCKS Melo, but Melo holds onto the wristlock! Truth reaches for Knight, Knight reaches for Truth, but Melo holds on. Truth takes a swing, but into an O’Conner Roll! TWO and Melo BLASTS Knight! Truth rolls Melo up, TWO! Melo kicks low, calls his shot, but Truth suplexes for a STUNNER! The fans fire up while both men are down! Truth and Melo crawl, hot tags to Miz and Knight! The fans fire up as Knight rallies on Miz! “YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips, Miz reverses, but Knight lEAPING LARIATS! Knight TOSSES Melo in for good measure!
Knight stomps a mudhole into Melo, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” LARIAT for Miz! KNEE for Melo! Knight scoops and POWERSLAMS Miz! Knight keeps running, JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Knight stays on Miz as he brings Miz up. Knight ROCKS Miz, then ROCKS him again! Knight whips, Miz grabs the ropes. Miz KICKS, then takes a swing, but into a back suplex! Miz lands out, tag to Melo! Miz ELBOWS Knight, but Knight scoops! Miz tilt-o-whirls through, Melo SUPERKICKS Knight down! cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Melo says he’s got this! Melo waits on Knight, then leaps, but NO 48!
Knight kicks low, but NO B F T! Tag to Truth! Knight ELBOWS Melo, Truth runs in! CENA SHOULDER TACKLES! Then the SPIN OUT BOMB! Truth says it’s time! “YOU CANT SEE ME~!” truth runs for the FIVE KNCUKLE SHUFFLE! Truth then fireman’s carries, but Melo slips free! Melo shoves, Truth dodges, and Truth hits the LIE DETECTOR! Truth then gets Melo in the S T R-TRUTH! But Miz CLOBBERS Truth! Knight ROCKS Miz, then LARIATS him up and out! Knight then goes out to THROW Miz into barriers! The fans fire up again, but NAKAMURA ATTACKS KNIGHT!
The fans boo, but the sinister samurai then POSTS Knight!! Nakamura slithers away while Melo keeps the ref’s attention! Truth sees Knight is down, Melo runs up, but Truth dodges! Miz tags in, full nelson, and a FIRST 48 FINALE COMBO?!? Cover, Miz & Melo win!!
Winners: The Miz & Carmelo Hayes, by pinfall
Well, what do you know? Nakamura aside, Miz and Melo made it work! Okay, they’re both trying to hog the spotlight, but is there a future for Melo Don’t Miz? Will Knight only have more of a reason to take that title off Nakamura now?
Charlotte Flair speaks.
“The GOAT… doesn’t have to call themselves The GOAT. Now, I have crafted a legacy that no one, I mean no one, can touch. And I’m back.” The Women’s Royal Rumble Winner chose Tiffany Stratton, but will The Queen take back her throne? Or will WWE always be on #TiffyTime? Speaking of…
Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae!
The WWE Women’s Champion may have gotten past Nia Jax, but now she knows Charlotte Flair is waiting for her at WrestleMania, and is going to be teaming with Trish Stratus in Toronto! Will she be in Tiffy Top Shape for that Tiffy Trishy dream match? Or will the Poison Pixie be quite the problem all on her own?
Before the match, Tiff grabs a mic while the fans cheer. Tiffy says, “I know, I know. You know it, you know it, and you know it. Ever since I won this title, everybody’s just been so obsessed with me. And last week, I had Nia Jax beat, until Candice LeRae decided to interfere and help her little meal ticket. And at Elimination Chamber, Trish Stratus and I make sure the Unstoppable Force comes to a definitive end!” The fans cheer that, but Tiff says enough about them. Let’s talk Charlotte Flair. The fans boo that name, but Tiff says Charlotte took her sweet old time, grabbed a chair, grabbed a mic, and she looked down on Tiff.
Charlotte chose Tiff as her WrestleMania opponent. In that moment, Tiff’s dream came true! And as she lied down there and looked up at Charlotte, she realized the rumors are true: No one loves to kick a girl when she’s down quite like Charlotte Flair. So at WrestleMania, Tiff isn’t coming for Charlotte’s legacy; that’s all Charlotte’s. Tiff is coming for the spot Charlotte desires the most: The number one spot as the top girl in the WWE! But here comes Nia & Candice to interrupt. Nia has a mic to tell Tiffy, “I Have to say, this is really cute. Like, it’s really cute that you actually think you were gonna beat me last week.”
Doesn’t Candice think that is cute? Candice says yes, it is so~ cute. And Tiff wouldn’t even be standing there if not for little Trish Stratus~. Exactly! And it’s even cuter that Tiff is out here talking about Charlotte when she wont’ even see WrestleMania! Because after Nia & Candide destroy Tiff at Elimination Chamber, Nia is coming back for her WWE Women’s Championship. Nia & Candice step up to the ring, and Nia says Tiff won’t even see the Grandest Stage of Them All. Tiff tells Nia to just give it up. This title isn’t even hers anymore. And once Tiff beats Candice tonight, Nia won’t have anyone to do her dirty work anymore!
Candice tells Tiffy that while they’re meant have a match right now, she and Nia are feeling impatient. Nia says they should just get rid of Tiff right now! But the ref steps in and says not gonna happen! Tiff VS Candice will, after the break.
SmackDown returns [Technical difficulties suck] TWO! Candice is frustrated but this is why Tiff’s a champ. The fans rally, but Candice stomps Tiff! Candice scowls at the fans, stalks Tiff, then brings her up. Tiff fires body shots, then she rolls Candice up! TWO, and Candice CLOBBERS Tiff! Cover, TWO, into a ghost pin! TWO! Candice escapes to hit a CODE BREAKER! Both women are down, but Candice scowls again as she crawls over to Tiff. Candice rains down fists, Nia tells fans to shut up, and Candice steps on Tiff’s face. Candice huffs ‘n’ puffs, pushes Tiff around, then scuffs her. Tiff rolls Candice up again, TWO! Candice DECKS Tiff! Cover, TWO!
Charlotte is stoic on commentary as Candice drags Tiff up and puts her in a corner. Candice fires hands, then backs off. Candice runs up to ROCK Tiff again! Candice then runs, but Tiff dodges! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Tiff rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT! The fans fire up, Tiff handsprings, BACK ELBOW! Tiff then reels Candice in for a SKY HIGH! High stack, TWO! The fans rally for Tiff, Nia coaches Candice, but Charlotte still seems nonplussed. Tiff and Candice rise, and Candice runs up. Candice puts Tiff on the apron, but Tiff ROCKS her! Tiff bumps Candice off buckles, then goes up, but Candice ROCKS her back!
Candice climbs up, and she fires hands on Tiff! Tiff fights the suplex! Tiff DECKS Candice, then adjusts position, to SANTON- FLOP! Candice ghost pins, TWO!! Tiff escapes, but Candice hits the step-up SENTON! And then a LIONSAUL FLOP! Tiff hurries to fireman’s carry, ROLLING SENTON! And then PRETTIEST MOON- NO, Nia drags Candice out of the ring! The fans boo, Nia tells them to shut up, but Tiff is on the apron! Nia swings, Tiff cartwheels over, and then she DROPKICKS Nia! Tiff Alabama Lifts Candice, to ALABAMA SLAM her into barriers! Tiff stares down Charlotte, tells her just wait for Mania, then she puts Candice in the ring.
Tiff goes to the corner, PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Cover, Tiff wins!
Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall
Charlotte gives moderate applause, but Nia CLOBBERS Tiff from behind! The fans boo, but Nia just drags Tiff to a corner. Nia goes up, but wait! Trish is here!! The fans fire up for the legend as she rushes into the ring! Trish avoids a haymaker to CHICK KICK! Then THESZ PRESS for Candice! And then a SPINEBUSTER! Trish helps Tiff to her feet, but Nia grabs them both! Trish fires fast hands on Nia! Candice CHOP BLOCKS Trish! Tiff is still dazed, Nia HEADBUTTS her back down! Nia & Candice mug Trish, and then Nia HEADBUTTS Trish! Trish & Tiff are side by side, and Nia drags them into the drop zone! A-NIA-LATOR!!
The fans boo but there’s nothing can be done! Nia grins as she helps Candice away, will these two trash Trish & Tiff in Toronto? Charlotte steps into the ring, stands over Tiff, and points to the WrestleMania sign. Will The Irresistible Force & Poison Pixie unwittingly do the dirty work of The Queen of Flair?
Cody talks with Damian Priest backstage.
Priest asks why Cody’s boy, The Rock, is here tonight. Cody says given the time of year, his guess is as good as anyone’s. But tonight will surely be eventful. Cody congratulates Priest on entering the Elimination Chamber. Priest says what’s wild is, last year, they both walked out as champions. What sucks is that this year, only one of them can. Now, Priest is man enough and he respects Cody to say that after Chamber, he’s coming for that title. Cody says he wouldn’t have it any other way. Cody heads out, but what business does The Rock have tonight?
Braun Strowman steps in, and he tells Priest that congrats on winning, and good luck in the Chamber. But let’s be honest, Braun had Jacob dead to rights last week. If not for Solo Sikoa, things would look a lot different next week. Priest chuckles and says take it easy, he’s sounding like Drew with the excuses. But it is what it is, Priest just beat Braun to the punch. But that was last week. Tonight, Solo and Jacob, two of the baddest men in the business. Priest & Braun handling business? Oh, they’re handling business. The only business Braun cares about is getting his hands on those two. Priest says Braun definitely will.
Braun heads out, will the Monster of All Monsters and the Archer of Infamy make sure Solo & Jacob #GetTheseHands? Or will the rogues run roughshod all over SmackDown once again?
Backstage interview with Naomi & Bianca Belair.
Byron Saxton is with the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and brings up last week’s SmackDown, the security footage led us to believe Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez were the ones behind Jade Cargill’s attack. Now, hold on, Saxton. They don’t think, Naomi knows they were. Fair enough. But this Monday, they can get their revenge when they defend the tag titles against Liv & Raquel. How ready are they for this match? Bianca says so ready! They have been waiting for months for an update. Jade has been recovering, she hasn’t been able to call or text, so the GlowEST took matters into their own hands to get revenge.
Bianca & Naomi will handle Liv & Raquel, then move on to Elimination Chamber, where one of them is gonna win to face Rhea at WrestleMania. Not only will you #FeelTheGlowEST on Monday, but Liv feels it tonight! #Let’sGLOW! The champs head out, but will they clear their Road to WrestleMania of any other distractions?
Alexa Bliss speaks.
“When I was away, there was a lot of… change that happened in me. But when I look around, I see this place is still the same. The names and faces may be different, but the desperation and insecurity remains the same. You’ll see Toronto when I turn the Elimination Chamber into something of a playground of my own. I know the Chamber. I love the Chamber. I’ve won the Chamber. And for the other five women, it’s gonna be a Hell like they’ve never experienced before. Need I remind you, this is my division, and I am in charge.” Bliss smiles and says, “See you soon.” The film comes off the reel, but will things get twisted in Toronto?
Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez!
The Big Easy is all about having fun, and they’re fired up for Naomi’s entrance. But wait! Liv & Raquel don’t wait, they attack Bianca & Naomi while the lights are still down! They mug Naomi, but Bianca drags Liv out of the ring! Then Bianca storms in to fire off on Raquel! The fans fire up, but Liv returns to CHOP BLOCK Bianca! Raquel hauls Bianca up for a TEJANA BOMB!! Naomi runs up, fires more hands, but Liv brings Naomi around. Naomi fires hands on her, but Raquel throws her down! Liv runs up, OBLIVION!
Liv & Raquel stand tall, the refs rush out here, but clearly the singles match isn’t happening. Will we be getting something even meaner and nastier between these four on Monday?
The Rock arrives!
His truck pulls into the parking lot, but we’ll see him in the ring, after the break!
SmackDown returns and…
Aldis is chewing out Liv & Raquel for the attack. He doesn’t know what they get away with on Raw, but they can’t pull that crap here. Now get the hell out of his building. Liv & Raquel just laugh that off, but then Chelsea Green & Piper Niven walk in. Chelsea says have no fear, Chelsea & Piper are here to sub in for Bianca and Naomi at Elimination Chamber. Aldis sighs, and says they’re not missing the Chamber. What? But Chelsea had an outfit picked out! This is a travesty to not have the greatest Canadian export since maple syrup on a Canadian PLE! Does he know who she is? The first-ever, longest reigning, tallest, shortest, prettiest, richest, tannest, sparkliest, oldest, youngest Women’s US Champion! Piper asks what this is aboot, eh?
Aldis says this is them testing his patience. They need to pack their gear and whatever else they want, because they’ll be in action next week on SmackDown in Toronto. And oh, it’ll be a good one. Wait, they need more details! At least an e-calendar notification? Aldis is leaving Chelsea in the dark on what’s coming, will she absolutely hate it?
The Rock heads to the ring!
Wait, what is this New Orleans related remix? The Final Boss steps out on stage, he shows those goosebumps, then continues down the ramp, shaking hands with fans. The Rock hits his signature pose on the corner, but then takes the long way around to pick up a fan’s phone for them before going back into the ring. The fans all cheer for “ROCKY! ROCKY!” and he grabs himself a mic. He waits as the fans continue to chant his name, and then he says, “Ahh, you feel it, don’t you? You feel it. The Rock has got chills up and down his body because you know, on a Friday night, for the Final Boss to get inside his bird and fly all the way here, you know that I’m dropping some ish on you tonight!”
The fans fire up and The Rock smiles. Rock says, “Let’s get this show on the road.” The fans anticipate what’s coming but he says hold on, he’ll do it. “FINALLY! The Rock has come back…” “TO NEW ORLEANS~!” Rock smiles, and he adds, FINALLY, WrestleMania is coming back to New Orleans!! The fans are thunderous to hear that! WrestleMania 30, WrestleMania 34, and now WrestleMania 42!? Yes, next year, 2026, LIVE from the Superdome! One of the greatest cities on Earth in New Orleans, Louisiana! The pyro goes off to commemorate the occasion, and the logo is already on the tron! Rock smiles at that, then he smiles at the WrestleMania 41 Vegas logo.
The fans are losing their minds, as we now know April 11th and 12th, 2026, the Big Easy has the Grandest Stage of Them All. Rock says you damn right holy ish! Oh when the saints go marching in…! Oh how I’d love… Wait, no, this ain’t singalong with The Final Boss! Sit there, shut up, and let The Final Boss sing the song! The fans are torn, but Rock says he sings! Oh how I’d love, to be in that number~! Oh when the saints go marching in~! Okay, that’s good enough. You got him, that was a great duet. The Rock is singing with the largest collection of STD’d trailer trash he has ever seen! The fans can’t believe Rock would do that to them!
Rock says now, dropping this news wasn’t the only gift he was going to drop on us. The Final Boss came here to call somebody out. The Rock will call out a man who he respects, who he admires, and who we all admire. That man is our WWE Champion, the one and only, Cody Rhodes. The fans cheer as The American Nightmare makes his entrance! They sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” and we get Cody’s pyro before he goes to the ring. Cody gets his second “WHOA~ OH~!” and round of pyro, then he steps inside to join The Rock. The fans cheer Cody on, so he holds up the title and the fans cheer even more.
Cody grabs a mic, but Rock says, “That feels good, doesn’t it? I mean, that’s gotta feel amazing, right? They love you, man.” Cody tells NOLA, “I love you, too.” Rock says this is crazy. Pretty much no one knows this, but since after WrestleMania last year, they’ve actually become good friends. No, it’s true, they have. Last time they were together was the Raw Netflix debut. Rock gave Cody his flowers, told Cody he has carried the company like the incredible champion that he is, so thank you, Cody. Rock meant it, and that night, they went to the back, drank tequila for two hours and had a great ol’ time.
They chopped it up, had a blast, but Rock wants to call Cody out here for something important. Here’s the thing… The fans get a bit rowdy as they wait, and Rock says Cody is a great champion. A great WWE Champion. Cody knows that. Again, they’ve become good friends, so over the months, they’ve texted. Even their moms became good friends! Look! Mama Johnson & Mama Rhodes together after WrestleMania 40! It is a pleasure becoming Cody’s friend. But Rock wanted this face to face to tell him a few things. One: Cody has been a great champion, but he needs to understand. Yes, The Rock, The Final Boss, is on the Board of TKO. And TKO owns WWE.
The Rock is the Director of the Board of TKO. Don’t boo that! The Rock’s good friend, Ari Emanuel, who owns everything Endeavor, The Rock joked with Ari, “Can you believe that you own The WWE?” Ari says he doesn’t own the WWE, The Rock does. Rock said no, no, he doesn’t know if he owns the WWE. But The Rock knows he is the most powerful… Cody, you are a great champion. But Rock wants Cody to be something more. Rock wants Cody to be something more than just our champion. Rock wants Cody to be his champion. The fans don’t like where that’s going.
Cody says he did not expect them to become friends, nor their moms to become friends, nor the tequila. Cody didn’t have that on his bingo card. But becoming The Rock’s champion? The Rock of all people should know, Cody is the people’s champion. The fans cheer Cody more, and Rock says yes! Cody is their champion! Of course! The Rock is also The People’s Champion, he loves that about Cody. This is their universe, they were both born into this business. But Rock means something even bigger than just this. Rock knows Cody’s goal is to bring as much joy and happiness to everyone around the world, as many as possible.
The fans cheer, and Rock says that’s Cody. Cody is that guy, and everyone knows it. Cody is on social media, Instagram, millions of followers. Millions, and millions! The Rock has half a BILLION. That’s not a flex. But The Rock is the most followed American man in the world, that’s what he wants for Cody. Rock wants Cody to be even higher. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, he will open doors to possibilities Cody never even imagined. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, every dream he has ever had can come true. Every dream of Brandi’s, of their daughter’s. Think about how Rock brought them to the premiere of Moana 2, in Hawaii.
Thank you, by the way, for making that cross a BILLION dollars, fans, Rock loves you. Rock has met the Rhodes family, they’re amazing. But imagine it: Cody’s daughter’s children, their dreams, long after Rock and Cody are gone, all those dreams can come true. Rock just needs Cody to be his champion. The fans say don’t do it! Rock tells Cody to just think about it, though. Rock is a very lucky man, he has it all. Cody also has it all. They’re very fortunate. They’re Mama’s Boys, they’re Girl Dads, they’re lucky men. Fans say don’t do it, Rock tells them to shut up or he’ll slap the syphilis off their face! Rock is trying to have a moment here, shut your mouths!
The one thing that Rock has never had, that he wants more than anything, is a brother. And that is what Cody can be. Last year, WrestleMania, Rock’s goal was to face his cousin, Roman Reigns, for the title. Cody knows, the fans know. Rock talked with his friend, HHH. He talked with Nick Khan, who is his friend. They are also Cody’s friends. Rock knew it wasn’t in the plans, but they talked about moving Cody aside to make what was best for business: Rock VS Roman, WrestleMania 40! What’d Cody do? Cody pitched a b*tch fit! Cody told The Rock he ain’t doing it, and he stood up to The Rock. And y’know what else? Cody SLAPPED Rock!
No one does that and gets away with it. But that is why Cody is special. That is why Cody should be Rock’s Champion. And that is why Rock will take Cody from where he is to a level so far above. Rock will make sure every dream, every desire, for generations to come, it all comes true. Rock’s dad, Cody’s dad, Soul Man & American Dream, they are looking down right now. They were friends, Cody and Rock are friends, Cody should be Rock’s Champion. He doesn’t need to answer Rock tonight. He can think about it, talk with his wife and daughter, as will The Rock. Then Cody can think about it. Meet Rock in Toronto on March 1st to give him the answer.
Fans still say don’t do it, but Rock says it is okay. Before he leaves, this has been an amazing night, this is a hot crowd, thank you all very much. But before he leaves, Rock wants us to know this: The one thing Rock wants more than anything in this world… is that. Wait, the title? Cody’s title? The fans’ title? This is all this is about? No no no no! Brother… Rock doesn’t want the title. He wants Cody’s soul. The fans duel, “NO! NO! NO!” “SELL YOUR SOUL!” Rock pats Cody on the cheek and says see you in Toronto. The Rock leaves, giving Cody a lot to think about. Rock does give one last glance back at Cody, then smirks.
What will The American Nightmare choose: His integrity? Or his aspirations?
WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly!
Did Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano got these titles thanks to Kit Wilson & Elton Prince? #YESBOY! Did they survive a couple title defenses thanks to Kit & Elton? #YESBOY! But when Pretty Deadly needed DIY, was DIY there for them? #NOBOY! So now, Kit & Elton are looking to give Ciampa & Gargano their comeuppance! Will we finally get another #SidePlateCheck? Or will Ciampa & Gargano remember for themselves, that if you wanna be champions, you gotta do it yourself?
But as DIY make their entrance, they have mics, and Johnny Wrestling tells NOLA, “Give it up one time for your TWO-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions…! The BTTITW (Best Tag Team In The World), D I Y~!” The fans boo instead. Ciampa says there is no denying that tonight has been electrifying. Gargano says this is a hot crowd. But please, if we could be somber for a second. Guys, this is serious. Two weeks ago, Pretty Deadly embarrassed DIY, and now reluctantly, DIY will return that favor by crushing their hopes and dreams of ever becoming WWE Tag Team Champions. So please, let us all rise to our feet… Yes, you in the LSU jersey, stand up.
Ciampa thanks Wade Barrett, and asks for everyone to remove their hands and bow their heads for a moment of silence for Pretty Deadly, beginning… now. The fans boo instead! And then Pretty Deadly make their entrance! The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really needed who in this broken relationship!
But then DIY jumps Pretty Deadly! The ref reprimands, DIY whip but Pretty Deadly reverses! DOUBLE DORPKICKS! Then DOUBLE LARIATS send DIY up and out! The disco ball hasn’t even stopped spinning! The fans cheer while DIY throw a fit! They regroup, cool down, and go back to the ring. Gargano distracts Elton, Ciampa CLOBBERS him, and the bell rings. But Elton fires hands on Ciampa! Elton whips, Ciampa reverses and he pulls hair! The ref reprimands, Ciampa throws Elton to the apron and KNEES him down! Tag to Gargano and he aims, SUPERKICK! Elton goes down in a heap, DIY cheers themselves on, and SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns, Gargano tags in, and DIY hits the BACK SUPLEX BOMBO COMBO! Cover, TWO! Elton stays in this but Gargano tags Ciampa back in. Gargano sends Ciampa in, but Elton ELBOWS him away! Gargano runs in, but Elton puts him on the apron! Gargano goes after Kit, but Kit blocks the kick! Kit BOOTS Gargano down, but then Ciampa BOOTS Kit! Elton dodges Ciampa to come back, DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! Elton and Ciampa are down, sputtering and writhing, and the fans rally up. Elton crawls, Kit rises, hot tags to Kit and Gargano! Kit rallies on DIY with big forearms! Kit whips, Gargano reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS!
Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa in a corner, then LARIATS! Kit runs to LARIAT Gargano! Kit pushes Gargano down, kicks him and hits a TWIST- NO, Gargano slips through to ROCK Kit! Kit yoyos, DOUBLE LARIATS! The fans fire up, Kit tags Elton! They get Gargano up, but Gargano BOOTS Elton! Gargano ELBOWS Kit away, then runs up on Elton! Elton dodges, then gives Kit the boost, DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Gargano survives but Ciampa is in! Elton fireman’s carries Ciampa, but Ciampa slips free! Ciampa whips, Elton reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa! Elton shows off his strength with the GOTCH LIFT PLEX!
Tag to Kit, but IN COME THE PROFITS! Ford SHOVES Kit down, Dawkins mugs him!!
Winners: Pretty Deadly, by disqualification; DIY retain the titles
Not again! Just like they did Motor City Machine Guns, The Profits make sure no one else takes these titles off DIY! URENAGE from Ford to Elton! Dawkins keeps hammering away on Kit, and then Ford POSTS Elton! Dawkins fireman’s carries Kit, to POST him, too! Looking like the All Mighty with that one! Gargano fires forearms in return, but ends up int he POUNCE GERMAN SUPLEX! Then Ciampa runs up into a FLAPJACK! Ford goes up top, then flies in FROM THE HEAVENS!! Direct hit on Ciampa! But wait! MCMG rushes out here, wanting their payback! The Profits brawl with MCMG, but Ford TOSSES Shelley to the apron!
Ford runs up, Shelley goes to kick, but Ford blocks it! Ford LARIATS Shelley down, Dawkins hits Sabin with THE BIG ENDING! The fans are torn as Dawkins whips Sabin, Profits get him for the REVELATION!! And if there’s been any revelation, it is that Ford & Dawkins don’t just want the smoke, they want to burn down the tag division to get it! Will nothing stop them once they’re back in action?
Kevin Owens speaks.
“You got what you wanted, huh? You got your match. You couldn’t, uh… You couldn’t just take the punishment that you deserved, that I’d already given you, and let it go. No, you… You wanted me and you to go again. You wanted to fight me, you want to hurt me, you want to end my career, which would hurt my family, by the way. Which is truly despicable. But what about your family, Sami? Huh? Have you thought of them? What about your family, huh?” Kevin reveals he is right outside the Zayn home! Kevin peers inside to watch Sami, his wife, and his son!
Kevin asks Sami via the video if Sami knows what he’s about to put them through, when they have to watch Kevin end Sami’s career. And what happens then, eh? When Sami can’t provide for them, and everything they have, like this nice house, the shelter, the security, the peace they have, when it’s all gone? And why? What for? Because Sami’s too proud? Because Sami’s selfish? Sami IS selfish. Because Sami is making Kevin do this to Sami’s family. Kevin will never forgive Sami for that. He’ll see Sami in Toronto. “But remember… You asked for this. It’s all your fault.” As if Kevin’s delusions aren’t already grand, will he continue to blame everyone else but himself?
Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga!
Elimination Chamber is on the horizon, and the Road to WrestleMania makes for strange bedfellows. Priest, Braun and Jacob were fighting each other just last week, but Solo’s return really threw things for a loop. Can Priest & Braun give Solo and the Samoan Werewolf their punishment? Or will everything (not) be fine in Solo’s Bloodline?
SmackDown returns as #OneBigSOB makes his entrance. As Solo, Jacob & Tama head to gorilla, we hear from Solo. “Tonight, we handle business. And it starts with Braun Strowman & Damian-” Jacob interrupts with, “Man, c’mon, DP! C’mon, Braun! I thought we did this! So tonight, we about to even up the score. If you ain’t know, I’m all gas, no brakes with it! See, since we touched the scene, we been dropping bodies like bread crumbs! Yadada mean!? FA-TUUU~! Hit my music!” The rogues enter to Jacob’s theme, is this alone proof he’s the new alpha? Or will the match be the last nail in that coffin?
The teams sort out, but Jacob stares down both Priest and Braun. NOLA seems to acknowledge Jacob, but Solo convinces him to stand down. Solo starts against Priest, the bell rings, and the two tie up. They go around, Priest powers Solo back, but Solo powers Priest back. They break, stare down, and Solo talks some trash. Solo shoves Priest, Priest shoves back. They circle again, tie up, and Priest puts Solo in a corner. The ref counts, Priest lets off at 4, but Solo stomps Priest’s foot! Solo throws hands, then a HEADBUTT! Priest staggers, but then he ROCKS Solo! And ROCKS him! And HEADBUTTS! That was a mistake!
Solo shakes his head to HEADBUTT Priest! Priest goes to a corner, Solo throws haymakers and body shots on repeat! The ref counts, Solo lets off and says see? Solo and Jacob as one! But Priest THROWS Solo to the corner to fire off haymakers of his own! Priest ROCKS Solo, the fans fire up, and Priest whips., Solo reverses to UPPERCUT! Solo talks smack but Priest ROCKS him again! Tag to Braun and the fans fire up! Braun stares Jacob down, tells him to shove it, then runs up to SPLASH Solo! Braun stares Jacob down again, goes back for Solo, and hits another LARIAT! Braun scoops, Solo slips free, but Braun runs up!
Solo ELBOWS Braun away, tags to Jacob, and Jacob runs in, but Braun dodges! Braun CROSSBODIES! Jacob is right up, but Braun BOOTS him right back down! Solo runs in but Braun TOSSES him! Priest hurries after Solo, Braun CLOBBERS Jacob! LEAPING LARIAT for Solo! Braun then gets on the track, STROWMAN EXPRESS SMACKS a chair out of Tama’s hand! The Good Bad Guy thought he was being sneaky! But then Jacob CROSSBODIES Braun into the timekeeper’s aera! The fans go wild as Jacob rises up, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Jacob hauls Braun up, drags him around the way, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him over to SMACK off the desk! Braun staggers, but he ROCKS Jacob in return! And THROWS Jacob into steel steps! Braun drags Jacob up, puts him in the ring, but Jacob SUPERKICKS Braun! Braun falls into the corner, Jacob HIP ATTACKS! Jacob’s all geeked up, then he tags in Solo. Solo soaks up some heat while Jacob HIP ATTACKS Braun again! Solo puts Braun on ropes to CHOKE him! The ref counts, Solo stops at 4, but Jacob gets a HEADBUTT in! Braun flounders, Solo taunts him and eggs him on, but Braun CHOPS him!
Solo HEADBUTTS Braun right down! Solo rains down fists, then lets off so he can put Braun on the ropes. Solo CHOKES Braun again, stops as the ref counts 4, and Jacob gets another cheap shot in! Solo tags Jacob in, then he HEADBUTTS Braun again and again! Jacob runs to BODY CHECK Braun! Jacob fires up, Braun flounders to ropes, but Jacob rains down fists! Tag to Solo, he soaks up heat from NOLA, then he stomps away on Braun! The ref counts, Solo lets off, then he keeps Braun from Priest by anchoring a leg. Tag to Jacob and Jacob climbs up, FROG SPLASH! Jacob roars while Braun writhes!
Jacob looms over Braun but he glares at Priest. Priest gets heated, but Jacob fires hands on Braun as SmackDown returns to single picture. Braun stands, but Jacob HEADBUTTS him again! Jacob runs for another BODY CHECK! And then a SENTON! Cover, TWO! Braun stays in this and he goes to a corner. Jacob snarls, tags Solo in, and the fans boo. Solo runs corner to corner to HIP ATTACK Braun! Solo grins as he copies Jacob’s geeking out. Tag back to Jacob and fans cheer! Jacob aims, runs, and HIP ATTACKS! Jacob keeps going, but Braun BOOTS from below!! The fans fire up while both men stagger to their feet.
Braun SPINEBUSTERS Jacob! Both monsters are down, the fans rally up, and they crawl, hot tags to Solo and Priest! Priest fires hands on Solo, then whips. Solo reverses but Priest SHOUDLER TACKLES Solo! Priest runs to BACK ELBOW! Jacob is back, but Priest dodges to WHEEL KICK! Priest then waits on Solo, but Solo catches Priest! Priest elbows free, but Solo SUPERKICKS! But Priest JUMPING ROUNDHOUSES! Solo comes back, Priest ROCKS him first! Solo swings, but into the FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Solo survives but Priest puts him in a corner. Priest whips corner to corner, then runs, only for Solo to put him on th eapron!
Solo takes as swing, Priest dodges and ROUNDHOUSES! Priest then knuckle locks with Solo, goes up top, and he tightrope walks for some OLD SCHOOL! The fans fire up and Priest powers up the arm! Priest runs, but Solo ducks the Comebacker! Priest fights the fireman’s carry to BELL CLAP, ROUNDHOUSE, and then he reels Solo in! But Tama is on the apron! Priest DECKS Tama, but Jacob HOTSHOTS Priest! Solo hits the URENAGE! Cover, TWO!! Priest survives and Solo is stunned! Solo snarls, looks to his taped-up thumb, then he drags Priest up. The fans boo but Solo taunts the fans now. SAMOAN- NO! Priest grabs Solo!
But Jacob runs in! Priest ROCKS Jacob, ELBOWS Solo, then he dodges, so Jacob’s SUPERKICK hits Solo! An accident just like last week’s shot to Tama, but Jacob doesn’t seem as upset by it. Priest TOSSES Jacob, then CLOBBERS Solo! STROWMAN EXPRESS CLOBBERS Jacob & Tama!! Priest brings down the straps, the fans are thunderous, and Priest grabs Solo by the neck! SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, Priest & Braun win!
Winners: Damian Priest & Braun Strowman, by pinfall
Just as Solo thought it’d be like before, he and Jacob were not on the same page! Priest is rolling towards Elimination Chamber, will this be just what he needs to go back to WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
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THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
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SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
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CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA LIVE! iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 2.20.2025
So the first live episode got fairly positive praise from everyone; will this continue the trend?
Filming at Full Sail seems to have set the stage nicely this week! Going into a Live episode we got Moose and The Hardy Boyz on NXT, as well as Jordynne Grace’s involvement with Steph and Giulia giving a little shine to TNA happenings since she’s newly WWE.
This episode should be interesting, we finally see Lei Ying Lee (fka Xia Li) back in action, Rascalz take on Tyson and Tyriek, Tessa should be seeing some action as well…so generally interesting happenings for the second Live iMPACT! of 2025. Let’s see how this one goes down!
No matter where @ManceWarner and @stephdelander go, @TheSamiCallihan WILL FIND THEM!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/mXz9U7m9PL
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Ratings:
- Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin: Rascalz win via Meteora/Swanton Combo – ***
- Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary: Lei wins via Thunderstruck – **
- NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC: Dango wins via The System help – ** 3/4
- Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore: Masha wins via Requiem – N/A
- Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons: Elijah wins via Tombstone Piledriver – *** 1/4
Results:
Oh yeah, and another Hendry concert is…cut off by a commercial, LOLTNA. First Hendry is cut off by AXSTV’s new Anime Hour bumper, and now Primo and Epico are showing up in TNA. I definitely didn’t have this on my BINGO card. The crowd starts chanting “Where’s Carlito”, which they do acknowledge and play off of well. Oh they’re using their shoot names of Orlando and Eddie now…but before they attack the lights go out and we get another guitar strum! ELIAH/ELIAS/EZEKIEL/EBENERZER/EMERY/EL VAGABUNDO – shows up to back up Hendry. Okay I can apologize away the redundant concert since it played into an Elijah debut. The crowd is immediately popping and chanting “This is Awesome” 10 minutes into the show.
Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin
Treehouse bros take it to the bigger men quickly, a few fast dives, a little MCMG style tandem strikes, Tyson fires and tries to take them out but they Low Bridge him. Tyriek comes in and they try similar things but Tyriek manhandles them both and throws them out of the ring, Trey is the first one back up and Tyriek and Tyson take his damn head off with his Corkscrew Running Euro Upper. Trey finally manages to flip out of the manhandle, tags in Wentz and Wentz goes for the hot and spicy cleaning house spot. Corner to Corner Knee Lifts for both big men, a Rolling Snapmare, into a Superkick for Tyson and Standing Shoot Star on Tyriek but only for two because Wes feints like he’s going to interfere.
Tyson and Tyriek pull off a tandem Assisted Backdrop Driver, but Wentz breaks it up, Tyson gets knocked out, Wentz hits the Tornillo, Wes tries to interfere again after Trey gets perched on the corner buckle but Ace runs around and trips Wes at the last second causing him to faceplant on the apron, Trey hits the Meteora, Wentz hits a Swanton from the other side of the ring and Trey gets the pinfall victory.
It was fast paced, all gas no brakes, but it didn’t overstay its welcome, so it was pretty fun all things considered.
After the match Wes grabs a mic, complains a little but challenges them to a 6 man match as Sacrifice. So we’re THAT’S where we’re getting the expected 3v3.
Fir$t Cla$$ comes out with an entourage of hot chicks and probably influencers or something. The “First Class Penthouse” , Gabby AF, Mafiosa Valentina, and Carolina are apparently known in their own way. Gabby I know was the awful one who did something for Impact a last year and sucked, but she’s part of the Busted Open Network I believe so that’s why she’s around. Two of them look like Noelle Foley and Frank the Clown…oh they actually are. Look at that. I do love KC Navarro as the Hype Man, they have this whole set up of AJ being mad that they haven’t gotten more Tag Title shots, so TNA placated him with his own Piper’s Pit and he’s *pregnant pause* totally happy with that. He says he loved Piper and hated Hogan before it was cool.
This is actually quality content and AJ is cutting a nice promo in this segment. They introduce their first guest, the greatest performer in TNA history, many whole say he’s Phenomenal with a whole lot of style….it’s A-J-Francis.
.@AJFrancis410 is GOING OFF!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/kGehtp9iTE
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary
Things were slow until Rosemary took her into a corner quickly, hit the Upside Down, and we get a lot of Lei trying to avoid Rosemary’s offense. Rosemary goes for a Spear in the corner and Lei forward rolls, starts connecting with a bunch of right hands, backs Rosemary into the corner, goes for 10 Count Punches, pulls her out, Airplane Spin TKO for only a two count. Rosemary tries As Above So Below, Lei shrugs it off, Rosemary tries to go after Lei anyway and eats Thunderstruck! Lei Ying Lee wins!
After the match Rosemary catches Lei on the ramp and hits the Green mist in the eyes. Match was far too short and so many of Lei’s set up moves look better than her finish. We’ve seen Kofi Kingston do it for years so it’s not bad, just the current Knockouts Division are awful and don’t take the move well.
Eric Young and the jabronis come out, EY cuts a very basic power crazed psycho kind of promo, gets the “What” chants from the crowds. EY is trying to recruit Maclin even though Maclin made his line in the sand last week. EY tries to spin it as maybe he took out Josh FOR Maclin instead of in spite of his trust. This really doesn’t seem interesting at all, but that’s probably because I hate the two Jabronis EY is with.
NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC
I really don’t have any interest in Slater. He’s got no personality beyond “flippy guy with a British accent”.
Dango immediately powders, grabs a chair and goes to swing on him but misses. So Leon is making JDC look dumb by dodging the post chop, using the chair to shield himself from a punch by JDC, and then clapping Dango’s fingers between the chair. So typical System match, look inept for the first few minutes, then take advantage of something to take over. Oh look, Leon takes too long setting up the table, Dango gets in a few pot shots, tries to whip him into the table but Leon leaps over it, and then leaps back over to clobber Dango. Dango is still trying to recover so Leon hits his over the corner post con hilo, and the crowd appreciates it but I’m not interested. Leon panders to the crowd after the big spot and then eats an X-Plex into the chair from Dango.
JDC throws Leon back in, goes for a pinfall that’s only a two and we cut to a commercial. Coming out of the commercial JDC is in control with a Kendo Stick until he isn’t, Leon counters and takes the keno stick, brutalizes Dango a few times then comes off the ropes with the kendo shot for 2. Leon goes for another table, and again, at least the crowd is receptive to this match. Leon sets it up, looks for something off the apron but Dango stops him first until he eats a dropkick to fall onto the table, Leon hits the Swanton 450 through the table on the outside. Does it look cool? Sure. Do I care about dumbass moves? Nope.
Oh thankfully the rest of The System comes out to stop the pinfall, Shield Bomb Leon through the first table, and roll him back in for Dango to win.
The Hardy Boyz come out to try and make the save, but the numbers are against them, so Oba Femi’s music hits! Oba cleans house but doesn’t get his hands on Moose, so they’re at least building the eventual clash between Moose and Oba.
The crowd starts a “Tessa, we comin for you” chant before she even starts talking. Tessa is actually playing off the crowd well, Santino’s music hits and Tessa thinks he’ll help her out with the crowd and Santino calls bullshit basically. Santino says if Tessa doesn’t wrestle next week, she’s fired and Masha’s music hits. Masha decides to step in for Tessa’s enhancement talent match.
Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore
Jobber tries to attack Masha early but Masha stops her, rocks her and Requiem ends the match.
Masha stares down Tessa, and then Cora Jade attacks from behind and hits Jaded.
Ryan Nemeth comes out to his Abyss music remix. What will Mokuba say today? “MYYYY BIIIGG BBRROOOOTTHHHEEEEER” he repeats at least 4 times and it’s hilariously cringe. He announces that Nic will return at Sacrifice, he literally just came out to give a PSA.
Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons
Hendry starts with Eddie, after a brief tie up it seems like Hendry reads the room and points at Elijah and the crowd wants him in. So Joe tags in Elijah, a little back and forth, Shoulder Tackle from Elijah, Rope Walk with Elijah lays out Eddie and a tag to Joe allows for a quick tandem knockdown, but Eddie powders as the Walking and Talking Duo hold the ring going into the final commercial break.
We come back and Hendry is bouncing Orlando off the ropes as he return a strike, but Orlando is obviously losing, eats a Euro Upper, and then gets walked around in the Stalling Suplex for posterity. Eddie tries a sneak attack but gets caught and Sack of Shit, into Kip Up, turn and then Orlando with the ambush! A few quick short cuts and an Irish Whip/Dropkick combo gives the Colons a near fall. Hendry does get locomotion variation cradles, but eats a Dropkick to stop the attempt at momentum. Orlando stays on Joe, but Joe finally starts to fire up as the crowd starts to get behind him. Euro Uppers make some space, but a Snapmare says no.
Eddie gets tagged in and a quick Leg Sweep into a Front Chancery keeps Eddie in control. As Joe tries to get back up, Eddie turns it into a Guillotine, but finally the Suplex counter connects for Hendry! Simultaneous tags! Elijah bulls over Orlando, catches a Leap Frogging Orlando with the Manhattan Drop as Orlando retreats to a corner, Stinger Splash into Spinebuster for two. Elijah tries to keep up the attacks but Orlando finds a few ways to make space, launches himself from the middle rope and eats the Jumping Knee! Eddie breaks up the pinfall, Hendry takes Eddie out and Elijah hits the Tombstone Piledriver for the win!
Overall Score: 6/10
Well there were more live hiccups than the first episode, and this felt both more epic and less epic at the same time. Elijah and the Colons debuting was a nice way to kick things off, Oba Femi showing up for the save was fantastic. There were a few decent matches, but also a lot of really short and rushed matches. Tessa played off the crowd well, but Masha really is useless on the mic. Lei Ying Lee needs to framed stronger, her matches have done nothing to show off her ability. It just proves that the Knockouts don’t know how to sell a kick to the head because they all take it in the shoulder and fall in corny ways.
Viva La Sam could be something fun if the next 3 weeks are just hand cam footage of him being like “I’m Sami Callihan and I’m gonna kick Mance Warner’s ass”, Elegance Clique getting the rematch with a stipulation is nice to see and while I like Fir$t Cla$$, that segment went a little long for a cornball swerve payoff. It’s one thing to placate the Influencer squad especially when we’ve seen Logan Paul and Ishowspeed do so well in WWE…but these are like Z Tier Influencers that no one cares about. These kind of dorks stream on Kick because they aren’t relevant enough for Twitch, not because they chose Kick over it.
So yeah, the low lights were pretty low, and the highs were a little fleeting, but at least they were pretty fun. Not a bad show, just clunky with noticeable issues and Masha shouldn’t be allowed to speak English anymore. She’s such a charisma vacuum when she’s not rambling in Russian.
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
Oblong Ball Foot Show: One For The Road
The Philadelphia Eagles are Super Bowl Champions! Tune in as we recap an excellent NFL season and touch on a...
Oblong Ball Foot Show: Super Bowl LIX Preview
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Anillo de Honor!
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G'day, mates!
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Visionary VS Prince!
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