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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Cero Miedo on Cinco de Mayo!
Penta made sure Judgment Day didn’t win the WWE World Tag Team Championships, and now he’ll make JD McDonagh pay for the WrestleMania screwjob!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- PENTA VS JD McDonagh w/ The Judgment Day; Penta wins.
- Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS Sheamus; Sheamus wins.
- Iyo Sky VS Roxanne Perez; Iyo wins.
- Rusev VS Otis w/ Akira Tozawa & Maxxine Dupri; Rusev wins.
- WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Jey Uso VS Seth Rollins w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker; Rollins wins by disqualification, Jey retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
Jey Uso is in the concourse.
The fans are all fired up as the WWE World Heavyweight Champion makes his way out into the crowd! Omaha, Nebraska all YEET along, and even Pat McAfee does, no concern for what Gunther might think. Jey high-fives fans on his way to the ground level, high-fives some more fans on the way to ringside, and Jey daps it up with Pat & Cole. Jey then goes to the ring, and the fans continue to bounce while singing along with Day One Ish! Jey then gets a mic while the fans cheer. Omaha even says, “One More Time! One More Time!” Jey thinks about it, and he figures why not! YEET! Jey and the fans bounce again, then Jey goes back to the mic.
Jey says, “The World Heavyweight Champion, Main Event Jey Uso, is now in your citaaay~!” The fans cheer, and Jey says look. He’s here. He knows Logan Paul’s here. So let’s just stand on business tonight! Where you at, Logan!? But instead, “Ladies and gentlemen…” The Wise Man walks out on stage! The fans boo as Paul Heyman continues his introduction, and he says he cam here tonight not to disrespect the World Heavyweight Champion, Main Event Jey Uso. But he dragged himself all the way to Omaha, Nebraska because he wanted to say something straight to the face of the World Heavyweight Champion, Main Event Jey Uso.
Jey tells OG Heyman, “You got a lotta balls stepping to me after what you just did to my family.” Heyman says wow, Jey is going to lecture Heyman about betraying their Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns? Jey says yeah, he’ll talk to Heyman. Day one, Jey saw past him. He warned Roman about him, and he warned CM Punk about him! Well, a shame that no one warned Heyman. Warned him about his best friend, his BFF, his brother in arms, CM Punk. And while he’s at it, keep your damn boos to yourselves while he’s on the mic! Not one of these fans, or Jey, had to live through what Heyman did.
Heyman’s best friend, CM Punk, put him in a position that 100% absolutely guaranteed it would sabotage him! The fans chant for Punk and Heyman mocks them for it. “They chant his name because they don’t know what’s in the dark heart of that man.” Punk put Heyman in a guaranteed lose-lose situation with Roman Reigns. And let’s talk about Roman Reigns for a minute! The fans chant for “O T C!” and Heyman sighs. Heyman says he had a dream with his best friend, CM Punk, while Roman was still playing high school football. Long before Roman thought about following in his father’s footsteps into pro-wrestling.
And while Heyman helped Punk overcome adversity, what’d Roman think he was going to do? Sell him out to Punk? Why? After Heyman built the Bloodline for five years, why would he do that?! The fans boo more but Heyman sighs again. Heyman found a “stray big dog on the island of irrelevancy, and I turned him into the Tribal Chief and the ruler of the WWE Universe. We were the Undisputed WWE Champion for 1,316 days! And I’m not the one that blew it by getting beat by Cody Rhodes after being distracted by Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 40! HE lost the title! HE lost the title that I spent five years of my life building him up as the champion!
And then what’d he do? He disappeared. He went back to being a big dog licking his big wounds, and left me in the hands of Solo, and Jacob Fatu and those Tongans, who put me through a table at Madison Square Garden and almost ended MY 40 year career. And he didn’t come back toa venge me, he came back to get his ula fala back! But I betrayed Roman Reigns, right? I betrayed Roman Reigns, who couldn’t handle the fact that I just wanted to help out my best friend live out his dream! No, it’s always Paul Heyman! I’m always the liar! I’m always at fault! I’m the betrayer, I’m the double crosser, I’m always the freakin’ scumbag in this situation! NOT THIS TIME! I’M RIGHT! I’M RIGHT! I’M IN THE RIGHT! And you blame me?! Screw you!! And screw each and every one of you for booing me!”
The fans boo more but Jey isn’t sure what to think. The fans chant “You Suck! You Suck!” and call Heyman an a-hole, but Jey takes a moment. Jey asks if Heyman is okay. In fact, is Heyman done? Jey has another question: What does this have to do with Jey? Heyman smirks and says that he does owe an apology. It has nothing to do with Jey. Not that part. He didn’t come out here to talk Roman and Punk. Here is the thing Heyman did come out here to talk with Jey. See, Jey won that title because he wanted that title> But that title is all about power and control. And honestly, Jey doesn’t know how to wield that. Jey doesn’t understand that!
Jey thinks coming out here to YEET with the audience and putting on the best in-ring performance is all it takes. But that’s not what this title is about. So while Jey needs in his heart and wants to be a champion… Seth Rollins has to be a champion. Rollins has to have that power, that control, and Bron Breakker… Well, that is just stage one of the plan. Stage two is the World Heavyweight Championship. But Heyman is out here tonight to do Jey a favor. And we all know how well Heyman’s favors work out> Jey gets to sign his own death warrant. Jey gets to chose the night he loses the World Heavyweight Championship.
Because Seth Rollins hereby challenges Jey to the World Heavyweight Championship! Rollins pinned Roman Reigns at WrestleMania, Rollins deserves to be #1 contender! Jey gets to pick the time and the place, because Rollins will fight Jey for that title any time, and any place. Heyman drops his mic then takes his leave. Jey tells Heyman to hold on, OG. Omaha, can you help him out? Jey asks if Heyman just said “any time,” and “any place,” “any where,” for the world title, against Seth Freakin’ Rollins? Then it’s on TONIGHT! FOUR LETTERS! ONE WORD! UH, UH… YEET!!
Jey had Logan Paul on his mind, but now he is daring the Visionary to put up or shut up! Will Jey turn the tables on Rollins? Or is Jey playing into Rollins’ hand?
Heyman returns backstage.
He finds Rollins & Bron, and Heyman smiles. Heyman says, “He fell for it> I cannot believe he fell for it! He wants to do the match tonight! You were so right!” Rollins asks you know what he loves. He loves to say< “I told you so.” And he tells Heyman, “I told you so.” Heyman says that is true. Bron says Seth Freakin’ Rollins, World Heavyweight Champion… Heyman asks if Bron understands what is going on. Roman Reigns prepared Seth Rollins at Mania, and Rollins pinned the biggest star in the main event. CM Punk prepared with unbridled passion for Rollins at Mania, and Rollins not only beat Roman & Punk, Roman & Punk lost to Rollins in the main event.
Jey Uso is a great champion, don’t take that away from him. He made Gunther tap out! Gunther! Jey is no easy day in the park. But Jey wasn’t focused on Rollins, he was distracted by Logan Paul! And now he has no time to prepare for Rollins. But Rollins is fully focused on Jey because there’s no one left. Rollins is a sniper, and he has Jey in his sights. And tonight, we get handed the keys to the kingdom when the ref hands that World Heavyweight Championship to Seth Freakin’ Rollins…! Bron can see the vision now, but will we all see Rollins burning down the YEET Era?
PENTA VS JD McDonagh w/ The Judgment Day!
The Intercontinental Championship Fatal 4 Way at WrestleMania only went well for “Dirty Dom” because he had an Irish Ace up his sleeve! JD is back, but will Penta make him pay for the part he played? Or will The Judgment Day be able to screw Penta over again?
Raw returns and JD is in the ring. The bell rings, JD and Penta circle while Carlito & Finn Balor watch from ringside. The fans rally for #CeroMiedo as Penta throws it up. But JD kicks low! JD headlocks for the takeover, but Penta headscissors. JD kips free, arm-drags and has the armlock. Penta headscissors again, JD kips free, and then he waistlocks. Penta ELBOWS free, runs, but JD drop toeholds! Penta avoids the basement dropkick, but JD avoids the Penalty Kick to roll Penta up! TWO and JD returns. Penta again avoids a kick but the STANDING MOONSAULT hits! Cover, TWO! Finn argues the count but JD CLUBS Penta.
JD stands Penta up to bump him off buckles, then he CHOPS! Penta CHOPS JD in return! And CHOPS again! Penta runs up to KICK JD’s leg out! The fans cheer while JD hobbles away. Penta CHOPS again, then KICKS the leg out again! The fans fire up with Penta while JD goes to another corner. Penta storms up, but JD puts him in the corner, only for Penta to dodges and CHOP! JD sputters, Penta swaggers, and Penta KICKS the legs out! Cover, TWO! Finn wants a timeout but there’s no such thing here. Penta drags JD up, whips him to a corner, but JD BOOTS in return! JD ELBOWS Penta down, then drags him up to bring him around.
Penta blocks the buckle bump, GAMANGIRIS, then CHOPS! JD leans back, Penta climbs, but JD SLAPS him! And SLAPS! JD shoves Penta down, kicks him, then goes to the apron. Penta blocks the boot, then ENZIGIRIS in return! The fans fire up, but Penta tells Finn to stay back. Finn says he’s just standing nearby. JD fireman’s carries Penta to APRON DEATH VALLEY! JD is in control and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and JD has Penta up top. JD pulls Penta into the Tree of Woe, then runs corner to corner, but Penta sits up! JD slides into the POST! Penta is free of the Tree, and then he runs to handstand and SWINGING DROPKICK! JD gets feet right to the face and Penta covers, TWO! JD stays in this but the fans rally behind Penta. Penta fires up, and he counter punches JD! Penta bobs ‘n’ weaves to CHOP, then ROCK JD! Penta fires forearm after forearm, whips, but JD reverses. Penta KICKS in return! Penta runs, ducks ‘n’ dodges, SLING-DOG! Cover, TWO! Penta hurries to stand JD back up and JAB!
Penta puts JD against the ropes to CHOP! The fans fire up and Penta whips. Penta scoops JD to BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! JD stays in this but Penta fires himself back up! The fans fire up but Finn distracts on the apron! That lets Carlito pull no Penta’s mask! Penta breaks free to GAMANGIRI! JD runs up but Penta TOSSES him out! Penta climbs, the fans fire up, “CERO! MIEDO!” SUPER CROSSBODY! Down go JD and Carlito! Finn freaks out but the fans rally up behind Penta. Penta puts JD in, but Finn creeps up! JD distracts the ref and Finn YANKS Penta down! Finn puts Penta in, but the ref DOES see it!
The fans fire up as the ref now EJECTS Finn & Carlito! The fans cheer whiel Finn & Carlito freak otu! They apologize, but it’s too late for that! Penta goes up a corner, but CHAD GABLE is here?! Gable grabs at Penta, Penta kicks him away, then Penta leaps over JD! Penta dodges JD to then FLY out onto Gable! Penta drags JD up but JD hits a JAWBREAKER! JD goes up, up, MOONSAULT FLOPS as Penta moves! MEXICAN DESTROYER!! Cover, Penta wins!!
Winner: Penta, by pinfall
Despite all the extra help on the outside, JD could not win! Cero Miedo is victorious, but when will Penta be Numero Uno?
Adam Pearce talks with Grayson Waller.
The Raw General Manager says the Aussie Icon wanted a match, so here’s his match. Yeah, but he didn’t know it’d be against him! Austin Theory finds Waller and Waller says good timing. Waller was talking with Pearce about how Waller’s been a bad friend to Theory, wanting a singles match for himself, but that’s selfish. Waller wants Theory to have the match, it’d be great for him. Okay, Theory is down! Pearce asks if Waller is serious, and Waller says he is! Well, if that’s what they want, fine. Theory has a singles match now. It’s official! Great! But who is it against? Uh, well, it’ll be better as a surprise, but they better get to the ring. #AllDay, remember?
Waller hurries away and Theory wonders what kind of surprise it could be. Well, everyone is wondering that. Who will Waller pass over to Theory to avoid getting brutalized?
Austin Theory w/ Grayson Waller VS ???
Raw returns as A-Town Down Under is already in the ring. And who is Theory’s opponent that was meant for Waller? It’s SHEAMUS! Monday Night Raw is once again Fight Night Raw as the Celtic Warrior is back again! Will Theory regret taking this banger?
The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally, the two tie up, and Theory waistlocks. Sheamus throws Theory away and the fans cheer him on. Theory brushes that off, resets with Sheamus, and then Theory kicks low! Theory throws hands, puts Sheamus in a corner, but Sheamus ROCKS Theory! Sheamus UPPERCUTS, but Theory ELBOWS back! Sheamus fires a BODY SHOT, an UPPERCUT, then whips. Theory goes up and over, rolls, comes back, and he DROPKICKS Sheamus down! Waller says that’s his best friend right there! But then Sheamus CLOBBERS Theory! The fans fire up, and Sheamus storms up on Theory.
Theory ELBOWS Sheamus, whips, but Sheamus reverses to scoop, IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! The fans fire up as Sheamus says one more time! IRISH CURSE BACKBREAKER! Sheamus goes for the legs but Theory kicks at him! Theory reels Sheamus in and throws some hands, but Sheamus stomps Theory down! The fans cheer as Sheamus turns Theory over for a CLOVERLEAF! Theory crawls and has the ROPEBREAK! Sheamus lets go, Theory rolls out, and Waller checks on his friend. But Sheamus climbs up! SUPER FLYING LARIAT! Down goes Theory! The fans fire up, and Sheamus finds a fellow Ginger! The fans cheer more while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and the fans rally behind Sheamus. Theory CLUBS Sheamus and throws hands, but Sheamus shoves him and eggs him on! Theory BOOTS Sheamus, but Sheamus just eggs him on more! Theory runs, but into a scoop and POWERSLAM! Theory flounders to the apron and Sheamus storms his way over. Sheamus stands Theory up and Waller stays back, but Theory HOTSHOTS free! Theory slingshots and somersaults, but into the KNEE CAPPER! Cover, TWO! Theory survives but Sheamus stays cool. The fans rally while Sheamus catches his breath, and then Sheamus goes to the apron.
Sheamus glares at Waller, Waller backs away, and Sheamus climbs. Theory avoids the flying lariat but Sheamus comes back! Theory dodges and Sheamus POSTS himself! Theory SUPERKICKS, somersaults, and BLOCKBUSTERS! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up for Sheamus while Theory goes back outside. Theory checks his jaw, shakes out the stars, and Theory climbs. Sheamus ROCKS Theory, fires body shots, and Sheamus climbs. Sheamus brings Theory up, tucks him in, WHITE NOISE! The fans fire up and Sheamus smiles as he’s clearly enjoying this. “This is Awesome!” as Sheamus rises up again.
Waller coaches Theory as Theory crawls to the apron, but Theory asks why Waller did this to him! Sheamus stands Theory up, and the fans cheer on the BEATS OF THE BODHRAIN! The fans count along, Sheamus goes past TEN, and Theory slumps down at FOURTEEN! The fans fire up, Waller is worried, and Sheamus goes to a corner. The fans cheer Sheamus on, and we get a BROGUE! Cover, Sheamus wins!
Winner: Sheamus, by pinfall
The Celtic Warrior made quite the return, and Theory is surely regretting subbing in for Waller. Will A-Town Down Under have a meltdown because of this?
BREAKING NEWS for Backlash!
Penta was so close at WrestleMania, and he got through JD here tonight, so now he will be challenging Dominik Mysterio for the Intercontinental Championship!
Judgment Day regroups in the clubhouse.
They’ve clearly heard the news, and JD storms in asking what happened out there. The ref kicked them out? And why did Gable go out there? That wasn’t on any of them. JD says then Penta and Gable need to get it ASAP! Dom says Penta will be handled at Backlash, but as for Gable- Wait, who is this walking into the clubhouse? It’s A J STYLES! The Phenomenal One nods to Finn, Finn nods back, but Carlito asks how Styles even got here. Oh, R-Truth told him where they were. Plus, it wasn’t that hard to find. But he’s not here to fight or cause trouble. Styles just wants to give a friendly warning. Whether it is Dom or Penta, Styles is after that title.
Dom says whatever, old man. Wow, oh, so hurtful. But Styles tells Dom that it doesn’t matter who wins, he want the title! And then he’ll beat Dom up either way. Dom says this is crazy. Who knew being a champion was this hard. Penta, Styles, his hands are full! Wait, Finn has history with Styles. Can’t he handle Styles for Dom? Oh, what? Now Finn cleans up Dom’s messes for him? Nah, just messing with you. Finn’s got this. They fist bump, but will Judgment Day (not) hold it together without Liv around?
Chad Gable is backstage.
“Freakin’ luchadores. Bloody my nose?” The New Day walk over and Gable says it is not the time for this. Kofi Kingston says hold on, hold on, hear them out. They saw what went down, and that was awful. And they know that it is around time American Made got some respect around here. Xavier Woods says the War Raiders are already talking about getting a rematch, but New Day beat the bejeezus out of them, so that’s a no. What the New Day thinks is that opportunities need to start coming back to American Made. Gable likes what they’re saying. Give him some more ideas like that. But then Becky Lynch pushes through.
Woods tells The Man it was messed up how Lyra Valkyria treated her. Becky thanks him for that. Becky heads to the ring, what will she have to say here in Omaha?
Becky Lynch goes to the ring.
Omaha is torn as The Man has a mic in her hand. Becky says The Man has come around to Omaha, and she’s baffled by the bit of boos and “You Suck” chants she’s getting. Wait, wait, wait. She is very confused. The fans are treating her like she’s the bad guy here? No, she’s the victim! Okay, okay, she took out Bayley, fine. But when she came out to WrestleMania, everyone lost their minds! A woman in the crowd cried tears of joy! No one asked where Bayley was, because no one cared, Bayley is garbage! Becky took out the garbage! The fans were happy the garbage was taken out, but then Becky took credit for it and everyone got mad she took out the garbage!
That’s not what they should say when someone takes out the garbage! You tell that person, “Thank you for taking out the garbage! And what’s more than that, I also took out the recycling! Because that’s what Lyra is! She’s less offensive than garbage, but she’s still garbage! And what is garbage about her is her attitude. She doesn’t have a dream if it isn’t for me! She doesn’t have a title if it isn’t for me! She doesn’t make history if it isn’t for me! She doesn’t even have a freakin’ fiancé if it isn’t for me!!” The fans boo, but Becky says she still gets all this disrespect! But wait, here comes Lyra! Becky says this is what she’s talking about!
Lyra has a mic and asks, “Did you actually just call me recycling? You’re the Queen of Recycling! You’ve been recycling the same moves and the same tired old act for years! But that’s fine, Becky, you do you, I don’t care. What I have a problem with is you acting like you had anything to do with my success. The one thing I want to drive into your skull more than my foot is that you didn’t make me!” The fans cheer, and Lyra says she’ll catch Becky up. Becky went on holiday, and everyone here got better. Becky went on holiday, and Lyra made history of her own. Lyra holds up the Women’s Intercontinental Championship and the fans cheer.
Lyra says, “Oh, but you’re what this championship needs, right? That’s what you said. That’s rich, considering I’ve defended it more times than days you’ve shown up to work this year.” The fans cheer that zinger! Becky paces but Lyra says she sees it now. Lyra sees it so clearly. Becky shattered glass ceilings and Lyra is forever grateful. But Becky left all that broken glass on the ground and the rest of the Women’s Division were supposed to just follow behind because Becky never had any intention of taken anyone to the top with her. Becky says okay, okay, Lyra is right. Becky was gone, and everyone had the best year of their careers.
But that’s only because they didn’t have Becky around to compare themselves to! The fans boo but Becky says no, she didn’t help anybody because she doesn’t like anybody. She didn’t help anyone because her job isn’t to help anyone, it is to beat everyone! And Becky is very, very good at her job! She’s the greatest to ever do it! That’s not just her saying it, SPORTS ILLUSTRATED said so! The fans do cheer that, but Becky tells Lyra it doesn’t matter how great she thinks she is or how great she’ll become, because she will always be the moment after Becky! Wow… Sports Illustrated, huh? Lyra is wrong, she’ll take it back. Please, continue listing the achievements.
What can we say? Becky’s first SmackDown Women’s Champion, first woman to win the main event of WrestleMania, and the first Women’s Intercontin- NO! Wait! That’s Lyra! Becky frowns while the fans cheer, and Lyra says Becky must hate it. Becky must hate that this is Lyra’s first ever. But get used to being second. Becky throws hands but Lyra hits back! The fans fire up as these two brawl, and then Lyra hits a SPINEBUSTER! Becky gets up, Lyra is right on her, but Becky puts her in ta corner! Lyra dodges, RAMS into Becky again and again, then things spill outside! Lyra sends Becky into barriers! And apron! And barriers again!
The fans fire up but refs rush out! Omaha says, “LET THEM FIGHT!” but Becky gets free and throws off her jacket! Becky then gets in the ring and tells everyone, “You see this disrespect?! You see this disrespect?!” Lyra gets free and is back for more! The fans fire up, Becky clinches, but Lyra slips free to fireman’s carry! NIGHTWING DRIVER!! Lyra stands tall over Becky, title in her hand! Will this be the scene this Saturday for Backlash?
Iyo Sky VS Roxanne Perez!
The Genius Women’s World Champion won big last week on NXT alongside Jordynne Grace, but now The Prodigy is back in hopes of returning the favor. Will Roxie prove she’s ready for Raw? Or will Iyo show being a prodigy only gets you so far?
Raw returns and Iyo makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally. The two circle, tie up, and Iyo pushes Roxie back. Roxie puts Iyo on ropes, Iyo turns that around, and the two go around. Iyo clinches, Roxie wrenches, but Iyo headlocks. Roxie powers up and out but Iyo runs her over! Things speed up, Iyo ducks ‘n’ dodges, then whips Roxie. Roxie cartwheels over the dropdown, then SLAPS Iyo! Roxie takes a bow, then dodges Iyo to bail out. Iyo pursues, they go back in the ring, and Roxie dodges again to roll back! Roxie RANAS, but Iyo handsprings through! The fans fire up, things keep moving, and Iyo handsprings again!
Roxie dodges, but Iyo comes back to SHOTGUN! Roxie tumbles out, Iyo builds speed, but Roxie is back to dropkick the legs out! Iyo writhes, but Roxie grabs the leg to stomp it and SMASH it! Roxie wants both legs but Iyo BOOTS her away. Iyo runs, but Roxie puts her on the apron. Iyo ROCKS Roxie first, but Roxie grabs a leg! DRAPING DRAGON SCREW! Roxie builds speed and DIVES! Down goes Iyo at the ramp! The fans boo but Roxie puts Iyo in. Iyo gets moving and she DIVES! Direct hit on Roxie at the ramp! The fans fire up with Iyo, and Iyo hurries to put Roxie in. Iyo aims, springboards, but Roxie SLAPS her down!
Roxie grabs Iyo’s leg, drags her to a corner, and STOMPS the knee against the crossbar! Iyo clutches her leg and slumps to the floor while Roxie leaves her behind, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Iyo has Roxie up top, for a SUPER ARM-DRAG! The fans fire up while both women are down! Iyo slaps her leg into working, then she crawls her way over. Omaha is behind Iyo as she ROCKS Roxie! Roxie ROCKS Iyo, but Iyo ROCKS Roxie back! The forearms keep going, Iyo fires a flurry, then she winds up to SHOTEI! Roxie staggers, runs up, but Iyo FLAPJACKS! And BUZZSAWS! Cover, TWO! Roxie toughs it out but Iyo goes to the apron. Roxie runs up, but Iyo blocks her punch to HOTSHOT the arm! Iyo climbs, Roxie stands, MISSILE DROPKICK! The fans fire up while Roxie flounders, and Iyo kips up!
Iyo goes wild, so do the fans, and all aboard the SHIN- NO, Iyo’s leg bothers her! Roxie runs up, wheelbarrows, but Iyo rolls through to STOMP 182! Cover, TWO! Roxie survives and Iyo is frustrated! The fans rally, Iyo waistlocks, and she deadlift GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridge, but then a roll through! Roxie fights the second try to SAIDO! Iyo and Roxie stand, Roxie runs up, but Iyo wrenches and hooks her up! TIGER BACKBREAKER! Iyo says time to end this! Iyo CHOPS Roxie, hobbles to a corner, and climbs up! OVER THE MOONSAULT but Roxie moves! Iyo lands out but that jams up the leg! Roxie runs to SPIKE RANA!
Roxie roars, runs, and hits the HANDSPRING KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO!! Iyo survives the Guillotine Knee as taught to Roxie by Meiko Satomura, and Omaha rallies up more. Roxie fires hands, SOBATS, then runs to hop on! Iyo handsprings through, but Roxie blocks the kick! DRAGON SCREW! Roxie then has the arm, LA MAGISTROL BRIDGE! TWO!! Iyo bridges, TWO!! Roxie has the body scissors, O’Conner Roll, TWO! Iyo rolls Roxie up, TWO! Roxie has a lateral press, TWO! Iyo sunset flips! TWO! Roxie high stacks, TWO! Iyo sunset flips again, IYO WINS!!
Winner: Iyo Sky, by pinfall
Roxie is shocked! She tried to match speed with speed and move for move, but she just couldn’t keep up with the Genius! But then Roxie gets in Iyo’s face! Roxie offers a handshake? The fans aren’t so sure, but Iyo takes it. They both bow, and surprisingly, there is now respect here between them. But wait! GIULIA ATTACKS! It was all just so the Beautiful Madness could slip in! Roxie grins and they mug Iyo like they have before! Giulia ties up Iyo’s legs, has the arms, and sets Iyo up for a SUPERKICK and SURFBOARD STOMP!! Rhea Ripley is in Australia, she can’t save Iyo! Giulia sets Iyo up again, for another SUPERKICK and another SURFBOARD STOMP!!
Roxie and Giulia stand over Iyo, will these former NXT Women’s Champions soon run Monday Night Raw?
Rusev VS Otis w/ Akira Tozawa & Maxxine Dupri!
Bulgarian Brute no more, he has been REDEEMED! And now, he feels it is his divine appointment to “fix” all those on Raw who were once like him. Will that mean #TheDozer is going to go through baptism by fire? Or will he simply be crushed?
The bell rings and the fans rally as the two big men circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and they break. The fans rally more as the two tie up again. Another deadlock, but Rusev manages to power Oits bac. Otis powers Rusev back, the fans duel, and the big men break again. Rusev nods, perhaps liking what he is seeing already. They tie up again, and Rusev KNEES low, CLUBS Otis and fires hands in the corner! The ref counts, Rusev stomps a mudhole, but stops as the ref gets in there. Rusev storms up on Otis, stands him up, and whips him, only for Otis to reverses. Rusev returns to LARIAT! Otis stays up and shakes his head!
Rusev LARIATS, Otis stays up, so Rusev runs. Otis dodges with a roll! Otis then comes back and he LARIATS Rusev! Rusev stays up, but now Otis runs, and Otis LARIATS again! Rusev shoves Otis, Otis ducks ‘n’ dodges, but the WHEEL KICK comes outta nowhere! The fans are torn while Rusev stands tall, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Otis is down on the outside. Tozawa & Maxxine check Otis and coach him up, but Rusev storms outside. Rusev kicks at Otis, stands him up, but Otis EXPLODER Rusev over the desk! The fans fire up as Otis has more to give! Otis shoves the Hydration Station aside, then drags Rusev up to whip him hard into steel steps! Otis puts Rusev in the ring, but then drag shim out to fire clubbing arms! But then Rusev ducks, Otis’ arm hits POST! Rusev aims, but Otis ducks, so Rusev’s kick hits POST! Otis then CLOBBERS Rusev! Otis puts Rusev in the ring, storms in after him, and SPLASHES in the corner!
Rusev sputters and Otis runs up again! But Rusev MACHKA KICKS him down! Rusev roars and he shouts, “RUSEV! CRUSH~!” Stomp and ACCOLADE!! Otis endures, but he’s turning red! Otis shouts for Maxxine and Tozawa, but he TAPS! Rusev wins!
Winner: Rusev, by submission
Rusev continues to make Otis suffer by holding on, but Tozawa storms into the ring! Tozawa tells Rusev he can’t do that to his friend! They’re gonna fight right here and right now! The fans fire up as Tozawa rips his shirt away! Rusev says hold on now. Rusev did what he came here to do, and he spares Tozawa for tonight. But that’s just to lower Tozawa’s guard! Ruzev storms back in and GUT WRENCH POWERBOMBS Tozawa onto Otis!! The fans boo but Rusev shows no mercy! He POSTS Otis!! Then he drags Otis back in, and sends him into another POST! Otis falls out of the ring, Rusev goes out to drag him back in!
Rusev hits another MACHKA KICK!! And then he turns Otis back over, and he clamps the ACCOLADE back on!! The fans boo but that only makes Rusev want to do this more! Pearce, refs, and security rush out here! They tell Rusev to let go, but he waits until Otis is OUT! The fans boo, Natalya is here to console Maxxine, and Pearce reprimands Rusev. Will Rusev not care what he must do to “redeem” Monday Night Raw?
Raw returns and Adam Pearce is in the ring.
The General Manager hopes that they can get this show back on track. That said, please join him in welcoming to the ring… Pat McAfee! Omaha fires up as Pat hops off the desk, grabs a mic, and joins Pearce in the ring. Pearce also welcomes out Pat’s opponent for Backlash… DER RING GENERAL, GUNTHER! The fans are less excited as Gunther makes his way to the ring. Gunther and Pat keep their eyes on each other as Gunther fetches his own mic. Pearce wants to remind them that they’ve gone over this. They will NOT have what happened two weeks ago happen again. Get what you want out verbally, because Saturday, the time for talk is done.
Pearce says the floor is theirs, but keep it professional. Pearce then steps aside so Pat and Gunther can stare down. The fans cheer Pat on but Gunther says, “Well first of all… Do not worry. I’m not gonna do anything tonight, I’m not going to spoil that for myself. Because luckily for you, unlike you and your friend out there, I am professional.” The fans chant “You Tapped Out!” at Gunther, and he tells them to shut up! He’ll get back to that later, don’t you worry! Pat says he heard Gunther mentioned being professional. And Pat’s friend, Michael Cole, that is a walking, talking GOAT right there! The fans cheer that!
Pat tells Gunther, “For 28 YEARS, every single week of his life, except for three times, he has dedicated to traveling the world for this company. 28 years straight, 52 weeks a year, for this company!” The fans cheer that, too! Pat says Maggle has earned the right to have an opinion. And since that opinion pissed Gunther off so bad, Gunther flipped a switch and felt he had to attack a 60-year-old man, Pat will give Gunther an opinion of the man he’s standing in front of. Pat says it is apropos to be here in Omaha, Nebraska. When he thinks Nebraska, he thinks of the Cornhuskers! Pat shouts out Coach Rhule and his players in the crowd.
Pat says he can’t wait to watch the boys in the Fall rise to the top! And when Pat’s in Omaha, he also thinks of their steaks. Nobody beats this town’s meat! NOBODY! The fans chant “BEAT THE MEAT!” Pat says right across from this very arena is a baseball field that has hosted the NCAA World Series since 1950! The fans cheer that, and Pat says this city is a symbol of working hard and dreams coming true. And Pat feels “dreams” is a good word. They both have that in common. Pat might be from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the USA, and Gunther might be from Vienna, Austria, both men grew up with the same dream.
They both grew up wanting to be in this business, idolizing the superstars of yesterday, and spent hours and hours in front of TV watching pro-wrestling, thinking that is what they were put on this earth to do! The problem with Gunther is, he was at this for 20 years. He has been a champion for 80% of his WWE career. He’s jaded! This is no longer a dream but a job for Gunther. For Pat, every time he walks into an arena, he gets jacked up about life, baby! The fans cheer that! Pat says he thinks about 12 year old Pat, the kids out there in the crowd like him, dreaming in the upper rows to get in this ring and let a-holes like Gunther know that they don’t like what Gunther’s about.
And what Gunther’s about right now, as opposed to the Waltering around stage… Gunther doesn’t want it anymore. He’s too comfortable. It happened against Sami Zayn, it happened against Jey Uso, and it’ll happen with Pat. Pat will prove to Gunther and the fans that this Gunther… is SAWFT. The fans fire up for that! Gunther paces a moment, then he stares Pat down as he says, “Did you enjoy your little daughter’s birthday last week? Two years, right? It’s cute. I bet it was a very special day for you. Because for me, Saturday is a very special day, and you just got me into the right mood for it!
“Because it’s my first match since WrestleMania, and I’m going to show up sharp, I’m going to show up prepared, I’m going to show up more focused than every before. Don’t you worry that I’ll overlook you. Don’t worry that I’ll underestimate you. I promise you, you have my full and undivided attention. Because on Saturday, that bell is going to ring, and I’m going to beat you up! I’m going to MAUL you! I’m going to grab you by the head, and DRIVE it into this mat! I’m going to CHOKE YOU OUT until you drop like a wet towel! Tonight, by my grace, you are untouchable. But on Saturday, trust me when I say this! On Saturday, only the grace of GOD can lift my arms off your throat!”
Gunther shoves his mic into Pat, then he storms off. Der Ring General is ready to reload and unleash his full arsenal upon Pat, will Pat survive to even be part of next week’s show?
WWE World Heavyweight Championship: Jey Uso VS Seth Rollins w/ Paul Heyman & Bron Breakker!
To what Pat McAfee just said, perhaps Gunther did underestimate Main Event Jey Uso, but Jey also managed to bring something out of himself that even he didn’t know was there. But that confidence was preyed upon to give The Visionary his shortcut back to this title. Will Rollins and his A-Team make the plan come together? Or will we bookend the show with some YEET?
Raw returns as Jey makes his entrance, and from the ramp this time. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is truly in control!
The bell rings and Jey’s first defense begins. The fans rally behind Jey while he and Rollins stare down. Omaha gets the “YEET! YEET! YEET!” going and Jey is fired up. Jey is already undoing his wrist tape, he wants to throw down! Rollins slowly steps forward, the two tie up, and Rollins waistlocks. Rollins headlocks, spins, hammerlocks, headlocks again and hits the takeover to ghost pin! TWO, and Rollins laughs at how close he had Jey. The fans duel with “YEET!” and “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Jey and Rollins circle, tie up, and Rollins headlocks again. Jey powers up and out, but Rollins runs him over! Cover, ONE!
Rollins sweeps the legs to cover, ONE! Jey kicks, Rollins blocks, and then Rollins ducks the Dragon Whip! Rollins lounges on the top rope and the fans boo. Jey is annoyed but he keeps his cool. Rollins swaggers up, but Jey UPPERCUTS him down! Jey just suckered Rollins! “YEET!” Rollins says okay, and he shoves Jey. Jey shoves back! Rollins shoves again, Jey shoves again, so Rollins CHOPS! Jey fires a haymaker, Rollins fires back, and the fans are torn! “YEET!” wins out but Rollins mule kicks low! Jey avoids the stomp, but Rollins kicks low again. Jey fights off the Pedigree, but Rollins bails out to avoid the superkick!
The fans are torn but Bron & Heyman walk over to check with Rollins. Rollins says it’s alright, Jey is good. Jey is champion for a reason. Rollins goes to the apron, has Bron relax, and then he steps inside. The fans rally behind Jey as Jey and Rollins circle. They feel things out, but then Rollins kicks low! Rollins CLUBS and stomps away on Jey, then stands him back up to bump him off buckles! Rollins stomps a mudhole in, digs his boot in, but the ref backs him off. Heyman sings along, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” and Rollins stalks Jey to the ropes. Rollins drags Jey up, “You think you’re on my level?” Rollins whips, Jey ducks ‘n’ dodges, and then UPPERCUTS!
Jey runs, Rollins blocks the kick, but the DRAGON WHIP hits! Jey runs and LARIATS Rollins up and out! Jey then DIVES, and Rollins is sent over the desk! The fans fire up while both men are down! Heyman & Bron are worried, but Raw goes to break.
Raw returns once more, and Rollins slithers into the ring. Rollins runs corner to corner at Jey, and Rollins forearm SMASHES! Jey falls to his knees but the fans still cheer him on. Rollins says the fans are just like Jey, they just don’t understand. Rollins brings Jey up, but Jey ROCKS Rollins! And ROCKS him again! And again! “YEET!” But Rollins kicks low! Rollins fires off in the corner, the ref counts, and Rollins keeps trying as the ref backs him off. The ref reprimands, but Rollins just goes back to Jey. Rollins puts Jey up top, CHOPS him, then climbs. The fans rally as Rollins brings Jey up, and Jey fires body shots!
Jey HEADBUTTS Rollins down and the fans cheer! Rollins stands, Jey leaps, but Rollins gets under! Jey keeps moving, ducks ‘n’ dodges, but then Rollins runs! DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! The fans fire up while both men are down again! “This is Awesome!” as Rollins and Jey go to opposite ends. Rollins storms up, but Jey counter punches again! “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Rollins wobbles, Jey pops, locks ‘n’ winds up to DECK Rollins! Then SAMOAN DROP! The fans fire up again as Jey shakes out the stars. “UCE! OH!” HIP ATTACK! Cover, TWO! Heyman is relieved and Jey grows frustrated.
Rollins slowly rises up, but Jey is there to fireman’s carry! Rollins fights the Samoan Drop and slips out of the ring. Jey pursues, they go around the way, and Rollins slides in. Jey drags Rollins back out, but Rollins BOOTS Jey into barriers! Rollins builds speed and he DIVES! Direct hit and Jey hits barriers! Rollins puts Jey in, goes to the apron, and springboards, into a SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO!! The antiair didn’t end this and the fans can’t believe it! The fans again declare, “This is Awesome!” as Jey and Rollins stir. Rollins rises, Jey aims from a corner, and Jey runs up, but into a KICK! Rollins fireman’s carries, then pops Jey around!
Rollins aims, runs up and BUCKLE BOMBS!! Jey falls, Rollins climbs, and the fans fire up! FROG SPLASH FLOPS as Jey dodges! Jey runs and SPEARS into a PEDIGREE!!! Cover, TWO!! Rollins is furious and Heyman is shocked, but Jey is showing that championship grit! Heyman coaches Rollins up while he goes to a corner. Rollins nods, he knows he has Jey in his crosshairs. Rollins runs back up, but Jey avoids the stomp again! SLEEPER!! Jey has Rollins like he has Gunther, but Rollins throws Jey away! Jey hurries to get moving! SPEAR!!! Cover, TWO!??! Jey is stunned and the fans are shocked, but Bron has a huge smile seeing Rollins’ own grit on display.
Omaha again declare “This is Awesome!” and Jey rises back up. Jey hobbles to a corner and climbs up. Rollins stirs, rises, and he anchors a foot! Jey tries to get free but Rollins CLUBS him! Rollins climbs up now, HAMMERS Jey, but Jey HEADBUTTS! And HEADBUTTS! “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Rollins falls back, but into the ref! Bron grabs at Jey! Jey BOOTS Bron off into the Hydration Station! But that lets Rollins get up and SUPER DUPER PLEX! Roll through and FALCON ARROW! Rollins aims from a corner now, and he CURB STOMPS!!! Cover, TWO!?!?! Jey survives and Omaha is thunderous! Bron, Heyman, Rollins, none of them know how this is possible!
Rollins goes to Bron, whispers something to him, but wait! SAMI ZAYN is here?!? Even after what happened last week!? Bron hurries to the ramp, ready to fight Sami. But wait, Sami LEAPS in from the crowd! The fans fire up as Sami fires hands on Bron! Sami POSTS Bron, then Jey SUPERKICKS Rollins! And a SPEAR!!! Jey hurries up top and Sami cheers him on! USO SPLASH!!! Cover, TWO?!?!?! HOW?!?! Omaha has no idea what to make of that, and neither does Sami! Sami coaches Jey, Heyman coaches Rollins, and the fans rally back up. But Bron SPEARS Sami!!! Bron then slithers away to hide while the fans boo!
Jey asks what happened to Sami and he goes outside to check. Heyman distracts the ref, Bron SPEARS Jey!!! The fans boo even more, and Bron drags Jey up to put him in the ring! CURB STOMP!!!! Rollins crawls to the cover, laughing all the way, but C M PUNK is here?!?! Omaha goes nuts seeing Punk back! Punk CHUCKS a chair at Bron’s face! Then he gets int he ring! Rollins and Punk brawl, there goes the title match!
Winner: Seth Rollins, by disqualification (Jey Uso retains the title)
Punk SMACKS Rollins with the chair, JAMS him up, then SMACKS him again! Bron slides in, but Punk SMACKS away on him! Rollins tries to get back in but Punk runs him off! The fans are thunderous for Punk as he and Sami stand tall! Jey gets back up, and clearly the battlelines have been drawn! Will Rollins’ vision for Monday Night Raw fall apart?
My Thoughts:
A great Monday Night Raw as the go-home to Backlash, but everything with the world title match was both great and curious. No Logan Paul here in Omaha is a mixed bag itself. From the story side, he should’ve, so he and Jey could’ve had a face-to-face. But as a person, I was glad we didn’t have to endure Logan being smug. And quite the audible bringing Heyman out to talk with Jey. Heyman’s passion was great, really adds some stuff to help us understand his side. And I like that they “suckered” Jey into this match. It was definitely an awesome match, even with the overbooking that eventually threw it out.
Sami and Punk showing up was all fine in story, but after what happened last week, I feel like Sami shouldn’t have come back so soon. But that aside, Jey, Sami and Punk make for a good unit to counter Rollins’ team. Though, Rollins will need another member who can wrestle since Heyman won’t be of any use. Here’s hoping it is Austin Theory given how Theory is upset with Waller after that switcheroo. Good return for Sheamus, though I feel like Sheamus has done more returns in the last 12 months than just about anyone ever. Here’s hoping Sheamus still gets in on the Intercontinental Championship story.
Speaking of, great match from Penta VS McDonagh, even with the overbooking. A bit surprising Penta overcame all that to win, but it works since now Dom and Penta are now set for an Intercontinental Championship. And there is room on the card as it doesn’t seem Jey VS Logan is happening for Backlash. Makes me wonder if they started us on a Jey VS Logan feud before they were really ready, as Backlash “isn’t big enough” for Logan’s “star power.” I like that Styles also got in on this, Styles VS Finn is going to be awesome, and can certainly set up the winner as the next challenger. It really depends on what happens with Dom VS Penta.
Gable getting involved as also good, given how he and Penta had their confrontation last week. New Day had a good promo with Gable to gas up American Made. That is to say, New Day is using American Made as a shield against The War Raiders, but it’ll only help Erik & Ivar earn their rematch. Great return match for Rusev with Otis looking strong even in defeat. Rusev doesn’t waste time teasing he’s a Tweener, he goes right to blindsiding Tozawa and beating Alpha Academy down. Not sure who is next for Rusev, as there aren’t as many Faces not really tied into anything on Raw. Maybe whatever WWE Draft we get moves Rusev to SmackDown, or at least moves some names from SmackDown and NXT to Raw so Rusev can face fresh meat.
Great promo from Becky and Lyra to help hype Becky VS Lyra. Good brawl, but now Lyra standing tall makes me think Lyra loses the title. Becky can start on some sort of second Grand Slam or something like that, but also she and Lyra will be 1-1 and the rematch for the Women’s Intercontinental title can be the tiebreaker at like MITB or SummerSlam. Iyo VS Roxie was a great match, but of course Giulia showed up. No reinforcements with Rhea promoting Crown Jewel: Perth, and sadly, Dakota Kai being hurt and now released, no Damage CTRL to help either. But the Heels did need a moment where they stood tall, and one of them could even get a world title shot.
And honestly, Pat and Gunther had an awesome promo to hype their match. Pat put over Maggle, he put over Nebraska, and quite perfectly framed this story as the hungry dreamer in Pat himself and the complacent veteran who has already done so much. Gunther’s response was also great, because now he’s angry enough to get that hunger and that fire back. I would think Gunther wins, as he needs the rebound from WrestleMania and Pat doesn’t really need much. But Pat can get a moral victory of sorts by lasting longer than Gunther or any of us expect. Pat can just keep getting up after every chop, have a false finish or two, but ultimately lose because his body can’t come through for his fighting spirit. Respect for Pat but momentum for Gunther, that’s the best outcome.
My Score: 8.9/10
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Coverage
Mitchell’s NJPW Wrestling Dontaku Results & Report! (5/4/25)
It’s a Wrestling Dontaku Weekend finale!

Who will stand atop the NJPW mountain?
The Goto Revolution finally leads NJPW, but will the Fierce Warrior be conquered by The United Empire as Callum Newman goes after the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Kickoff – Ryusuke Taguchi & Katsuya Murashima VS Hitamaru Sasaki & Jet Wei; Taguchi & Murashima win.
- Taiji Ishimori & Gedo VS MENTAI KID & Batten Burabura; Taiji & Gedo win.
- YOSHI-HASHI & Master Wato VS Great-O-Khan & Jakob Austin Young; Hashi & Wato win.
- Six Woman Tag: Maika, Hazuki & Koguma VS Starlight Kid, AZM & Yuna Mizumori; Maika, Hazuki & Koguma win.
- El Phantasmo & Boltin Oleg VS Konosuke Takeshita & Rocky Romero; ELP & Boltin win.
- 10 Man Tag: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano, YOH, Ryota Chikuzen & TAJIRI VS TMDK; Tanahashi, Yano, Yoh, Chikuzen & Tajiri win.
- 8 Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS Shota Umino, Tomohiro Ishii, Taichi & Taka Michinoku; LIJ wins.
- IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji VS Yuya Uemura; Tsuji wins and retains the title.
- IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Hirooki Goto VS Callum Newman; Goto wins and retains the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
Six Woman Tag: Maika, Hazuki & Koguma VS Starlight Kid, AZM & Yuna Mizumori!
It’s a Stardom Showcase as The Crimson Cannon Empress, The Wildheart & The High Speed Genius take on The Masked Idol, High Speed Bomb Girl & Kumamoto’s Unsinkable Ship! Which side of Stardom shines brightest in Fukuoka?
The trios sort out and Koguma starts against Starlight Kid. The fans cheer and the two circle. They approach, but Koguma dodges to do her bear taunt. But then Starlight CLUBS her! Starlight whips, Koguma whips but Starlight handsprings over. Starlight whips, runs up, but Koguma puts her on the apron. Koguma runs up, Starlight slips under and sunset flips, TWO! Starlight runs up, but into an arm-drag! Starlight comes back to hit a headlock takeover! Koguma headscissors, Starlight kips free, and the two strike their animal poses! The fans cheer as bear and tiger reset. They tie up, Koguma spins Starlight, then goes for the arms!
Starlight fights free of being made to bear pose! But then Koguma kicks low, runs, but Starlight blows past her to springboard and CROSSBODY! Then SHOTGUN! The fans fire up and Starlight tags Yuna. Yuna runs up to run Koguma over, then fires up as she keeps moving. But Hazuki jumps in and helps Koguma ELBOW Yuna down! Then they double Yuna into Maika’s shoulder tackle! The fans fire up for the TRIPLE DROPKICK! The ref reprimands but Koguma tags Hazuki in. Hazuki rallies the fans while she stands on Yuna! Then she scrubs her with the boot again and again! Hazuka runs to BOOT WASH her!
Hazuka bumps Yuna off buckles, tags Maika, and the fans cheer as Maika scoops and SLAMS! Cover, TWO! Yuna stays in this but Maika kicks her around. Maika eggs Yuna on, but Yuna rises to CLUB Maika in the chest! Maika comes back to DECK Yuna! Yuna flounders, Maika brings her up and whips her to a corner. Maika runs up but Yuna BOOTS her down, somersaults, and SHOTGUNS! Yuna hurries and she tags in AZM! The fans rally up for AZM as she climbs, then leaps, but into Maika’s arms! Maika throws AZM back, kicks her, and she has Koguma help double whip. But AZM sends Maika into Koguma, and Starlight jumps in!
Starlight hits a TAKEOVER HEADSCISSORS COMBO! Then AZM DOUBLE DROPKICKS Maika & Koguma! The fans fire up for Starlight’s team as she and AZK put Maika & Hazuki at the center of the ring. They coordinate, STANDING MOONSAULT and DOUBLE STOMP! Cover, TWO! Maika is tougher than that, but AZM drags her into a drop zone. AZM goes up, DIVING DOUBLE- NO, Maika avoids the stomps to then scoop and POWERSLAM! Cover, TWO! AZM stays in this but the fans rally behind Maika. Maika drags AZM up, reels her in, and suplexes, only for AZM to fight free! Maika kicks and runs, but into a ROUNDHOUSE!
Maika just roars and comes back! Maika spins AZM, suplexes, but AZM has a GUILLOTINE FACELOCK! The fans rally as Maika endures, powers up, and suplexes again! BRAINBUSTER! The fans fire up while both women are down! The fans rally as Maika and AZM crawl, hot tags to Yuna and Hazuki! Hazuki sends Yuna to an open corner, runs up, but Yuna puts her on the apron! Only for Koguma to SPLASH Yuna! Hazuki then goes up and MISSILE DROPKICKS Yuna! Koguma goes up to CROSSBODY! Hazuki hurries to SENTON! Cover, TWO! Yuna survives, but is now in a CROSSFACE! Koguma & Maika intercept AZM & Starlight!
The fans rally while Yuna endures, and then AZM & Starlight break free! They both stomp Hazuki! Koguma & Maika drag Starlight & AZM back out, Hazuki CLUBS Yuna and whips her to ropes. Yuna reverses, Hazuki grabs ropes, then she DUMPS Yuna out! Yuna skins the cat to then LARIAT! The fans fire up with Yuna, she and the others coordinate! TRIPLE DROPKICK at the corner! Yuna then goes out while Starlight goes up! UFO SPLASH! Starlight sets Hazuki up for AZM’s DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS! Yuna adds the fireman’s carry and TROPICAL VALLEY BOMB! Cover, Maika breaks it! The fans fire up, but Starlight runs in and RANAS Maika!
Koguma runs in and spins Starlight around for a DDT! AZM runs up, Koguma blocks the kick to CUTTER! The fans fire up with Koguma as she and Hazuki coordinate. The “Double Crazy” combo DIVE and CROSSBODY!! Everyone is down at ringside and the fans fire up! Hazuki puts Yuna back in and the fans rally up more. Hazuki springboards and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Yuna survives but Hazuki keeps on her. Hazuki whips Yuna to a corner, Koguma hits a SPLASH, and then Hazuki adds an ELBOW! Maika adds a LARIAT, then she puts Yuna up top! Now we get Triple Crazy as Maika lifts and the others climb!
The fans fire up for the TRIPLE CRAZY BOMB!! Cover, but Starlight Kid breaks it!! Koguma CLOBBERS Starlight, Maika keeps AZM on the outside, and Hazuki drags Yuna up. Hazuki suplexes, Yuna slips free and she trips Hazuki up! Yuna hammerlocks an arm, turns Hazuki over, TROPICAL CRADLE!! TWO!??! Hazuki escapes, but Yuna runs up! But Hazuki spins her to a suplex and stalling BRAINBUSTER!! Cover, Triple Crazy wins!
Winners: Maika, Hazuki & Koguma, by pinfall
A fast ‘n’ furious fight from three rising stars, and it was the Wildheart that finishes it off! Will we see this Triple Crazy trio soon go for the IWGP Women’s and/or NJPW Strong Women’s Championships?
10 Man Tag: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano, YOH, Ryota Chikuzen & TAJIRI VS TMDK!
As The Ace’s Final Road continues to roll on, this is quite the unique stop. Sure, he’s teamed with the Clown Prince and Mr. Direct Drive before, but he is now honored to be teaming with The Makai Love Machine and yes, THE Japanese Buzzsaw! Will Tanahashi & Tajiri add to their legends with this epic team-up? Or will Zack Sabre Jr, Ryohei Oiwa, Robbie Eagles, Kosei Fujita & Hartley Jackson prove that The Mighty Don’t Kneel?
Just as always, Tanahashi shows off the abs, the fans cheer, and Yano even adds a “Sugoi~!” The teams sort out and ZSJ calls out Tajiri! The fans fire up as Tajiri accepts. The bell rings, ZSJ and Tajiri circle, and Fukuoka are strongly behind “TA-JI-RI! TA-JI-RI!” Tajiri and ZSJ feel things out, knuckle lock, and ZSJ rolls to then wrench and wristlock. Tajiri seems rather unbothered, and he slips under ZSJ to then trip him and spread the legs! ZSJ reaches back but Tajiri uses his whole body length! ZSJ pushes up, crawls back, wrenches and hammerlocks, then half nelsons to cravat. Tajiri spins through to wrench and trip ZSJ!
Tajiri has the legs, ZSJ resists then hooks Tajiri to trip him. ZSJ returns the leg sprawl, then has a STRETCH MUFFLER! ZSJ uses it as a means to an end so he can have the BOW ‘N’ ARROW! Tajiri pops free and turns ZSJ over to have a headlock. ZSJ slips out the back, they each want the other’s arm, but then ZSJ top mounts. Tajiri pushes ZSJ away and the fans cheer the standoff! Tajiri and ZSJ feel things out, knuckle lock again, and ZSJ turns Tajiri. Tajiri turns that back around but ZSJ has an arm. ZSJ hammerlocks but Tajiri steps through the ropes, then steps back inside, and he has ZSJ’s arm wrapped around ropes!
The fans cheer, but Tajiri shows respect by respecting the ropebreak. The fans applaud, as does ZSJ, and then they tag out to Yoh and Eagles. The fans join in on “ROBBIE ROBBIE ROBBIE!” but Yoh rolls Eagles up! TWO and Yoh kicks low! Yoh whips, Eagles reverses to go up and around to arm-drag! Things keep moving, Eagles hurdles but Yoh dodges to RANA! The fans fire up but Fujita storms in and CHOPS! The Ichiban Sweet Boys double whip, but Yoh ducks the lariats! Yoh kicks and kicks, but the Sweet Boys CHOP and CHOP! They double wrench, and MAX- NO, Yoh fights free! Yoh crisscrosses the Sweet Boys into each other, and DOUBLE BULLDOGS!
Tag to Yano and the fans cheer, only for the Sweet Boys to double kick! They double whip, but Yano grabs the ropes! Yano then sends Fujita into Eagles, and he SLAPS them both on the heads! Yano then unties the buckle pad! The fans fire up, but Sweet Boys DOUBLE ELBOW, split the wishbone, and DOUBLE KICK! The Sweet Boys BLAST Yano’s corner, then Eagles brings Yano to the Mighty corner. Eagles bumps Yano off buckles then tags in Hartley. Big Hartley UPPERCUTS then ELBOW DROPS! Cover, TWO! Yano is a bit tougher than that so Fujita tags in. Fujita drags Yano up to CHOP! And CHOP!
Fujita whips Yano corner to corner, runs up, but Yano puts him on the apron! Fujita SLAPS Yano back! The fans rally and Fujita aims, springboard for the MISSILE DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Yano stays in this and the fans rally up. Fujita tags Oiwa and he drags Yano up. Oiwa whips Yano to ropes, then ELBOWS him down! Cover, TWO! Oiwa stays on Yano but Yano pulls on the mullet! Oiwa kicks free, runs, but into an atomic drop! The fans rally up while both men are down, and Yano tags in Ryota! Ryota CHOPS Oiwa! Ryota eggs Oiwa on, but Oiwa fires a forearm! Ryota CHOPS again! Oiwa fires another forearm!
Ryota CHOPS, Oiwa ROCKS him, repeat! The fans rally as Oiwa fires a flurry! ROLLING ELBOW! Oiwa runs, but into a BACKDROP! Fujita runs in, but into a scoop and SIDEWALK SLAM! Eagles runs in, into a scoop and SIDEWALK SLAM! The fans fire up with Ryota, and he invites Tanahashi in! They double whip Oiwa, then DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE! And then Ryota says, “Genki de masu!” The fans cheer as Ryota and Tanahashi have energy to spare, and Ryota drags Oiwa up. Ryota reels Oiwa in, but Oiwa fights the lift! Oiwa powers up to BACKDROP Ryota! The fans rally, Oiwa runs, SPLASH DOWN! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally more as Oiwa and Ryota rise. Oiwa whips Ryota to a corner, runs up, but Ryota LARIATS him down! Oiwa is up to LARIAT Ryota! Both me are down now and the fans rally again. Hot tags to ZSJ and Tanahashi! One more meeting between these two after yesterday’s final singles match, and the two dosido in a battle of Cobra Twists! Tanahashi has the COBRA TWIST! ZSJ pries free to have the COBRA TWIST in return! But Tanahashi powers out, has a leg, DRAGON- NO, ZSJ sits down for the ARMBAR! Tanahashi stacks ZSJ, TWO! ZSJ RAMS Tanahashi, snapmares, but Tanahashi UP KICKS!
Tanahashi kicks low, snapmares, and he NECK TWISTS! The fans fire up and Tanahashi runs, but ZSJ catches him to wrench! PELE to the arm! Then a STOMP to the elbow! Tag to Hartley and the fans rally up. Hartley runs corner to corner and SPLASHES Tanahashi against bare buckles! Short arm LARIAT! Cover, TWO! The Sweet Boys BLAST Tanahashi’s corner, then they send Tanahashi to a neutral corner. Fujita runs up to CHOP! Oiwa adds an ELBOW! Eagles adds a FOREARM! Then Oiwa scoops Tanahashi to SLAM him! ZSJ NECK TWISTS! Hartley SENTONS! Cover, Tajiri SLAPS Hartley on the head!
Tajiri scurries away before ZSJ can get him! The fans fire up and now Yoh & Yano mug Hartley. They double whip, but Hartley DOUBLE LARIATS! “Jackson Number One!” Hartley fireman’s carries Tanahashi, but Tajiri slips in and dosidos with the ref! GREEN MIST for Hartley!! Ryota runs up and SLINGBLADES!! Tanahashi hurries up top while his team keeps TMDK out! HIGH FLY FLOW!! Cover, Tanahashi’s team wins!
Winners: Hiroshi Tanahashi, Toru Yano, Yoh, Ryota Chikuzen & Tajiri, by pinfall
Legends working together makes for a classic finish to this match! Will this moment be one to remember as The Ace continues his countdown to the end?
8 Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS Shota Umino, Tomohiro Ishii, Taichi & Taka Michinoku!
As Wrestling Dontaku wraps up the weekend, Tetsuya Naito and Bushi have reached the end of their NJPW run. Will they be victorious one last time alongside Hiromu Takahashi & Shingo Takagi? Or will the Roughneck, Stone Pitbull, Holy Emperor & Blue Playmaker make this parting a bitter goodbye?
For one last time, Naito takes his time with the elaborate entrance attire. It also seems rather clear that Bushi is emotional over this being his farewell match. The fans rally and the teams sort out. The fans call for “NA-I-TO! NA-I-TO!” LIJ fust bump, the fans cheer, and Naito steps up for the team. The fans rally behind him more as he starts against Taichi. The bell rings and Fukuoka cheers even harder for “NA-I-TO! NA-I-TO!” But then Naito tags out to Bushi. The Black Mask has the fans on his side, too, and he circles with Taichi. They approach, Bushi kicks low then runs, but into a BOOT! Taichi runs, but Bushi TOSSES him out!
Bushi DECKS Taka, but Shota & Ishii attack! They double whip, Bushi sends Shota into Ishii, then Bushi DOUBLE RANAS! BUSHIROONI~! Taichi is back but Bushi DECKS him! Takagi sets Taichi up but Taka trips Bushi! The fans boo but Taichi storms in and stomps Bushi. Taichi CLUBS Bushi, whips him corner to corner, then runs up, but into a BOOT! Bushi runs up and RANAS! The fans fire up while both men are down! Bushi stands and he tags in Hiromu. Hiromu BLASTS Ishii, then Takagi tags in! Hiromu & Takagi double whip Taichi to DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE! Then they flex! The fans cheer the side chest.
Hiromu stands Taichi up to CHOP him to the corner. Hiromu whips corner to corner, runs in and LARIATS, then snapmares, but Taichi RIDGE HANDS! Taichi wrenches and HOOK KICKS! Shota BLASTS Takagi because he can, and Taichi tags in Taka. Taka BOOTS Naito down, then stomps Hiromu around. The fans rally but Taka brings Hiromu up. Hiromu CHPOS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! Taka gets mad, and he pokes Hiromu in the eyes! Taka whips Hiromu to the corner, stomps and knees him, then tags Ishii. Ishii winds up to CHOP! Hiromu grits his teeth and CHOPS back, but Ishii doesn’t budge!
Ishii CHOPS Hiromu and eggs him on! Hiromu stands to CHOP, but Ishii CHOPS back! Ishii gives more trash talk and more mocking kicks. Hiromu stands to CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! The fans fire up as Ishii staggers, but then Hiromu CHOPS again! And again! Ishii ROCKS Hiromu, suplexes, but Hiromu fights free! SUPERKICK! Hiromu roars, reels Ishii in, but Ishii suplexes first! But Hiromu’s right up!? And he dodges Ishii to SNAP GERMAN! Ishii’s right up!? SAIDO! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Ishii hot tags Shota, and Shota BLASTS Takagi again! Shota then runs up on Hiromu, but Hiromu dodges!
Shota hits buckles, hurries after Hiromu, but Hiromu fights the half nelson. Hiromu blocks a kick, and a punch, and then DRAGON SCREWS! Hot tag to Naito! The fans erupt as Naito kicks and CLUBS Shota again and again! Naito whips to arm-drag Shota! And ELBOW him down! And basement DROPKICK! TakaTaichi attack and double whip, but Naito reverses to send Taka into Taichi! Drop toehold for Taichi and Bushi basement DROPKICKS! Naito kicks and whips Taka, Taka reverses, but Naito reverses back to TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up as Naito poses, then he tags in Takagi. Takagi runs up on Shota, blocks a boot, and LARIATS through!
Takagi keeps moving, but Shota SWATS the lariat! Takagi YUKON LARIATS, but Shota roars as he stays up! Shota fires boxing elbows, but Takagi shakes his head! Takagi fires boxing elbows of his own! He ROCKS Shota, runs, but Shota LARIATS at the ropes! Shota runs, Takagi LRIATS! Takagi runs, Shota dodges, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Shota stays up but the ELBOW and JAB hit! Shota ENZIGIRIS! Takagi SLIDING LARIATS! The fans fire up with Takagi and he whips Shota. Shota reverses to TORNADO DDT! Shota LARIATS Takagi down! But then Shota falls over, too! The fans fire up while both men crawl.
Taka tags in, he BOOTS Naito and BLASTS Bushi! Taka runs, redirects, redirects, and BOOTS Takagi down! The fans rally up as Taka brings Takagi up. Takagi ROCKS Taka! Taichi runs up to RIDGE HAND! Ishii ROCKS Takagi! Then we get a RIDGE HAND BACKHAND COMBO! SUPER K from Taka!! Cover, TWO!! Takagi is still in this but Taka goes to scoop! Takagi is too big, so Taka pokes him in the eyes! Takagi still ELBOWS! JABS! Taka UPPERCUTS, but Takagi PUMPING BOMBERS! Bushi slips in, as does Hiromu, and they double whip Taka to a corner. Hiromu runs up to forearm SMASH! Bushi adds an ELBOW!
Takagi LARIATS, then he snapmares Taka! Naito is in, LIJ hits a QUADRUPLE DROPKICK!! The fans fire up and Takagi says, “TOKI GA KITA!” The fans fire up more as The Rampaging Dragon drags Taka up. Taka fights the lift, and Shota SHOTGUNS Takagi! Hiromu dropkicks Hiromu’s legs! Hiromu dodges Ishii, he and Naito give Ishii TENDEDERO! Taichi runs up, he breaks through the line, but Hiromu sends him into an atomic drop! Takagi BLINDSLIDE BOMBERS! LARIAT in the corner, feed to a SUPERKICK! Naito wrenches Taichi for DESTINO!!! The fans are thunderous after seeing that final Destino!
Bushi then runs in and BLASTS Shota! Bushi keeps moving, for one last DIVE!! Down goes Shota and the fans are thunderous! Takagi has the fans join in for “OI! OI! OI!” Takagi runs, Taka dodges, and Taka BOOTS! Takagi comes back to PUMPING BOMBER! Takagi drags Taka up, pump handles and torture racks, BURNING DRAGON!! Cover, LIJ WINS!
Winners: Los Ingobernables de Japon, by pinfall
Their final battle in Fukuoka, their final battle with their friends, and their final battle in NJPW, it was all victorious! Naito & Bushi stand with Hiromu & Takagi to celebrate this final win. The fans cheer on “NA-I-TO!” as Naito leads the group in one last LIJ fist bump. The wild ride is over for the Uncontrollable Charisma, and he poses with his team one last time. Burn this moment into your memories, for we may never see Naito & Bushi back in a NJPW ring again.
IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship: Yota Tsuji VS Yuya Uemura!
The Gene Blast may be one of the Reiwa Era Three Musketeers, but the Heat Storm vows to be the face of this new generation. A match meant to happen months ago finally does happen, but who will truly be the frontrunner of the future?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who is the true global star!
The bell rings and the fans rally up as Yota and Yuya stare down. Fukuoka duels, but the “YO~TA!” sounds stronger than the “YU~YA!” They circle, feel things out, then circle a bit more. They feel out the knuckle lock, then Yuya rolls. Yota keeps him at bay as they clinch, then they go around. Yuya waistlocks, Yota wrenches free and waistlocks in return, but Yuya switches. Yota headlocks, Yuya rolls him to the mat and headlocks in return. Yota keeps his shoulders up, then fights to his feet. Yuya hits a takeover, Yota headscissors, but Yuya kips up. Yuya is fired up and the fans cheer him on.
Yota stands up and the two reset. They circle while the fans duel, and the two tie up. Yuya wrenches to a hammerlock but Yota switches and full nelsons. Then Yota headlocks and grinds Yuya down. Yuya fights up, pries at the hold, but Yota powers it on tighter. Yuya powers up but Yota squeezes the headlock even tighter! The fans applaud while Yuya endures. Yuya fires body shots, then powers up and out, drops down, but Yota avoids the dropkick! Yota dodges but Yuya arm-drags! And arm-drags again! Yuya has the armlock and the fans cheer again. Yota pulls at the hold, then fights up. Yuya grinds the elbow but Yota reaches for ropes.
Yota has the ROPEBREAK but Yuya brings him away from the ropes quickly. Yota fires forearm after forearm until Yuya lets go. Yota runs up but Yuya arm-drags! Only for Yota to drag Yuya down, trap an arm, and SACRIFICE the other arm! The fans cheer while Yuya writhes. Yuya shakes out the bad arm but Yota brings him back up. Yuya fires a forearm! Yota grins so Yuya fires more shots! Yota wrenches and serves up SOLE FOOD to the arm! Yuya staggers away to a corner and the fans rally more. Yota storms up on Yuya, puts him in the corner, and he wraps the bad arm around ropes! The ref counts as Yota pulls, so Yota lets go at 4.
Yota brings Yuya out to snapmare, then he has the bad arm in a top wristlock! Yuya endures, the fans rally, but Yota puts on the pressure! Yuya fights forward, reaches out, but Yota pulls on the arm! Yuya still manages the ROPEBREAK! The fans applaud as Yota legs go. Yota paces while Yuya shakes out the bad arm. Yota comes back to stomp the arm! Yota then wrenches Yuya, KNEES the arm, then KNEES it again! Yota KNEES Yuya into the corner, then paces again. Yuya stands, Yota runs in, but Yuya BOOTS him away! Yota runs back in, Yuya dodges and CHOPS! CHOPS! CHOPS! The fans fire up as Yuya winds up, but Yota dodges! Yota BOOTS Yuya in the corner!
The fans rally as Yota whips corner to corner. Yuya goes up and over, then arm-drags! And DROPKICKS! The fans cheer while both men are down. The fans rally again as Yuya rises up. Yuya roars, the fans fire up more, and Yuya brings Yota up to wrench and BIG back suplex! Cover, TWO! Yota stays in this but Yuya stays focused. The fans rally and Yuya brings Yota up. Yoga fights with elbows, then wrenches to YANK the arm! And YANK! And YANK! Yota whips, Yuya reverses, but Yota RANAS! Yuya tumbles out and the fans rally as Yota aims. Yota builds speed, and he DIVES! Direct hit and Yuya is sent into railing!
The fans fire up while Yuya stumbles and falls, and Yota fires back up! Yota has the fans rally more as he takes a lap. Yota comes back for Yuya, puts him in the ring, and the fans applaud. Yota steps in, stands Yuya up, but Yuya fights the suplex! Yota powers through, but Yuya fights free! Yuya CHOPS, then runs, but into a scoop and BACKBREAKER! The fans fire up while Yota grits his teeth. Yota storms around, goes to a corner, and he aims as Yuya rises. Yota runs in, STINGER SPLASH! The fans fire up while Yota snapmares Yuya down. Yota goes up, up, but Yuya avoids the Marlowe Crush!
Yuya dropkicks Yota’s leg, then has it for a SHIN BREAKER! GROUND DRAGON SCREW! Yuya then hurries to step through, FIGURE FOUR! Yota endures and the fans fire up! Yuya pulls on the main leg but Yota works to turn things over! The fans duel as Yuya fights against that, but Yota does turn the hold over! Yuya endures now, so he hurries to turn things over! Yota uses that to get the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer, Yuya and the ref undo the hold, and Yuya stands over Yota. Yuya brings Yota up to scoop and SLAM him down! Yuya then goes to a corner, climbs up, only for Yota to GAMANGIRI! Yuya is dazed up top, so Yota climbs up after him!
Yota brings Yuya up, throws forearms, then goes to the very top! But Yuya fires forearms! Yota falls, Yuya adjusts, and Yuya leaps! Yota avoids the crossbody but Yuya rolls through! Yota comes back, Yuya slips around and full nelsons! But Yota powers up to break the hold! Only for Yuya to GERMAN SUPLEX! Yuya runs, but into a BOOT! Yuya comes back and takes a swing, but into the BACKBREAKER! FLATLINER! But Yuya avoids the stomp! Yuya shoves Yota, but Yota DROPKICKS! The fans fire up as Yota keeps moving, and then Yuya DROPKICKS! Both men are down and the fans fire up again!
The two men crawl away to the corners while the fans rally up. Yuya runs in corner to corner, but Yota BOOTS him! Yota runs up, but Yuya clinches! Yota fights free, ROCKS Yuya, and Yuya staggers to the ropes! Yota whips, Yuya ducks ‘n’ dodges but Yota blows past, only for Yuya to get under! URENAGE! Cover, TWO! Yota stays in this and the fans fire up! Yuya shakes out the bad arm, then he stands Yota up for a scoop. Yuya SLAMS, then he fires back up! The fans fire up with Yuya as he climbs again! Yuya is up top, for the FROG SPLASH! But he FLOPS as Yota moves! Yota runs back in, FLYING ARMBAR TAKEDOWN!!
Yuya clasps hands, but Yota breaks the grip! ARMBAR!! Yuya endures, flails, reaches out, but Yota pulls on the bad arm! Yuya fights around, but Yota just keeps after the arm! Yuya uses his core strength to sit up, but Yota PULLS the arm straight! Yuya falls over, fights around, and he turns over. Yota does his best to keep the armbar, even with this mounted angle! Yuya bites his thumb to ignore the pain in his arm! Yuya then reaches out, ROPEBREAK!! Yota lets go in frustration but the fans fire up. Yuya clutches his elbow but Yota paces around. Yota drags Yuya up from the ropes, but Yuya CHOPS! Yota brushes that off, but Yuya CHOPS again!
Yuya can’t put enough power behind the strikes with that bad arm, but he keeps trying! Yota BOOTS Yuya, Yuya drops to his knees, and the ref checks with him. Yuya refuses to let the bad arm cost him again, and he rises up to CHOP! And HEADBUTT! And HEADBUTT! Yota ROCKS him!! And then KNEES him down! The fans fire up while Yota stands tall! Yota goes to a corner, watches Yuya sputter and rise, GENE- DROPKICK to the leg! Yuya hurries to grab that leg, but Yota fires off forearms! Yuya eggs Yota on, so Yota HEADBUTT! But Yuya still DRAGON SCREWS!! Yuya steps through again, FIGURE FOUR!!
The fans fire up as Yota endures again! Yuya puts as much pressure as he can, Yota pries at the hold, but Yuya thrashes around! Yota reaches out, keeps his shoulders up, and he drags Yuya along towards ropes! But Yuya drags Yota back from ropes! Yuya thrashes as hard as he can, we hit 20 minutes, and Yota still endures! The fans rally harder and harder as Yota fights to turn this over! Yota does, but then Yuya turns it back! But this time, Yuya turns back the other way to keep Yota from the ropes! And then he PULLS on the leg! Yota lunges for the ROPEBREAK!! The fans fire up while the ref again frees Yota.
Yota clutches his leg while he crawls away, but Yuya is right on him! Yuya has the leg, but Yota ENZIGIRIS! Yuya falls, but he also manages to waistlock! Yuya drags Yota up, but Yota fires elbows! Yuya still GERMAN SUPLEXES! Bridging cover, TWO!! Yuya holds onto Yota and the fans fire up! Yuya full nelsons, DRAGON SUPLEX!! Bridging cover, TWO!! Yota survives again and Yuya is furious! Yuya roars, the fans are with him, and he reels Yota in! SAIDO BACKBREAKER! Then he puts Yota in the drop zone! Yuya climbs, the fans rally more, FROG SPLASH!! Cover, TWO?!?! Yota survives and Yuya is beside himself!
Fukuoka is thunderous as Yuya rises! Yuya brings Yota up, cording holds one arm, swings to get the other, but Yota STUNNERS free! Yota roars, runs, but into a DROPKICK! Yota just comes back, GENE- ARM-DRAG!! Yuya hurries to lock in those arms, but Yota fights off the clinch! They go around and around, and Yota frees an arm! But Yota brings it back in! DEADBOLT SUPLEX!!! Yuya roars, the fans are electric, GENE BLASTER outta nowhere!!! Cover, YOTA WINS!!
Winner: Yota Tsuji, by pinfall (still IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion)
The Heat Storm was certainly on fire, but Tsuji was volcanic! The gold stays with Yota, will he and those left in LIJ make sure NJPW stays tranquilo?
Speaking of which, the rest of LIJ returns to the ring so they can stand with their guy. Tsuji gets to also have his final photo op with the group as we know it. We also get one last LIJ fist bump with the five of them, and then Naito & Bushi let Yota, Takagi & Hiromu have the ring. Yota hurries to get the mic to tell Naito & Bushi, “Let me have one last word.” The fans applaud, and Naito & Bushi stop to hear him out. “Naito and Bushi leaving could signal the end of Los Ingobernables de Japon. But remember this: We’re ungovernable. We’ll always be connected in our hearts. Until next time.” The fans applaud that! Naito even gives one last fist bump salute.
The fans cheer as the LIJ Era has changed, and Bushi makes sure we see his mask where it says, “Adios.” Then Yota continues to say that he is still IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion, and that he’ll continue to defend the cerulean blue mat of NJPW. The fans applaud, and Yota says he is fortunate to have such a great rival in Uemura. And another in Gabe Kidd. So, who should he defend this belt against next? Well, he said the man’s name, so here comes the Mad Man! The fans bark it up for the War Dog, and Gabe gets right in Yota’s face. Yota says nic eto see him. Should they pick up where they left off?
Gabe takes the mic to say, “You’re an IWGP champion?” No, no, Yota beat Evil and Yuya, but in Osaka… It was a double knockout! Yota never beat Gabe! The fans cheer that point! Gabe says on June 15th… In Osaka Jo-Hall… “Let’s find out who the strongest is!!” The fans love that idea! Gabe heads back out, the fans bark more, and Yota tells Gabe, “Let’s show ’em our NJPW.” The fans also like that, and Yota asks if they’re ready! The fans cheer because they are, but who will make this their Dominion?
IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Hirooki Goto w/ Yoshi-Hashi VS Callum Newman w/ The United Empire!
The Fierce Warrior finally put the G in IWGP at the New Beginning in Osaka when he won this title. But now, the Prince of Pace is looking to blow right past him as the top guy in NJPW! Will the Goto Revolution stay the course? Or will it be conquered by the United Empire?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who’s really the G of IWGP!
The bell rings and the fans rally strongly for “GO-TO-O! GO-TO-O!” Callum doesn’t let that bother him, and he runs up to BOOT Goto! Callum fires forearms, whips, but Goto reverses! Callum ducks ‘n’ dodges to build speed, but then Goto dodges! The fans cheer as Goto is at least agile like Callum. They tie up, then they just fire off forearms! The fans rally as the shots go back and forth, faster and faster! Goto gets the edge, headlocks, but Callum powers out. Goto runs Callum over, but Callum kips up to ENZIGIRI! Callum TOSSES Goto out, then PLANCHAS! The fans fire up while Goto goes down!
Callum fires himself up and the fans cheer. Callum brings Goto up, the fans duel a bit more evenly, and Callum whips. Goto reverses and Callum hits railing! But he comes back to BOOT Goto down! Callum snarls, drags Goto back up, and now Callum sends Goto into railing! Goto comes back but Callum BOOTS him down again! And then PENALTY KICKS! The fans rally, Hashi coaches Goto, but Callum KICKS Goto in the back! Callum puts Goto in the ring, the fans applaud, and Callum sits Goto up again. Callum hits another PENALTY KICK! Callum then goes to the corner and climbs up, calling his shot.
Callum aims, DIVING- NO, Goto dodges! Callum comes back, but Goto dodges! Goto LARIATS, then he clinches for the SAIDO! Callum flounders away and the fans fire up. Callum goes to a corner, Goto runs in, MURAMASA! Then Goto puts Callum up top! Goto climbs up after Callum, just to drag him into a draped position! SUPER DRAPING NECKBREAKER!! Callum flounders out of the ring, Great-O-Khan & Francesco Akira check on him, as does Red Shoes. Callum winches, clutches his shoulder, but he manages to sit up. Callum has speed but Goto is taking advantage of his skinnier frame.
Red Shoes starts the ring count and Goto stays back, which annoys Callum. Callum storms into the ring, but Goto kicks him down! Goto has Callum up for a suplex, and BRAINBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Callum stays in this and the fans fire up, but Goto stays right on Callum. Goto drags Callum up, but Callum clutches his shoulder, so Goto lets him be. We’re only five minutes in as the fans rally up, and Goto stomps Callum around. Callum crawls away to a corner but Goto grabs at him. Callum wants Goto to hold on, and Red Shoes has Goto step back. Callum’s neck and shoulder are really bothering him, but Goto just storms up to stomp him!
Goto drags Callum up, snapmares, then clamps on a chinlock. Callum endures as Goto’s knee digs into the back and neck. Goto then ELBOWS Callum in the head, stomps him around, and brings him up. Goto CLUBS Callum’s neck, but Callum CHOPS! The pain in his shoulders holds Callum back, but Goto clinches for a RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP! And then a GROUND OCTOPUS! Callum endures, reaches out, and the fans rally up. Goto thrashes around but Akira & Khan coach Callum. Callum kicks around but Goto shifts to a headscissor necklock! Callum endures the squeeze, kicks and kicks, and finds the ROPEBREAK!
The fans applaud and Goto lets go in frustration. Goto drags Callum up but he’s a ragdoll again. Goto still brings Callum around, snapmares him back down, then KICKS him in the back! And ELBOW DROPS! Callum sputters but Goto just ELBOW DROPS again! Akira & Khan coach Callum but Goto looms over him. Goto ELBOW DROPS onto Callum’s back! Cover, TWO! Callum toughs it out but Goto is still calm. Goto stands Callum up, kicks him low, but Callum fires a forearm! And another! The pain in the neck holds those back, and Goto CLUBS Callum! Goto runs, but into a DROPKICK! The fans fire up while both men are down!
Khan & Akira coach Callum, Hashi coaches Goto, and both Goto and Callum crawl to the apron. Goto goes to the floor, and Callum smiles. The fans rally as Callum builds speed and FLIES!! Callum does a full 360 to hit Goto and then rolls through more to stand back up at the ramp! The fans are thunderous and Callum fires himself back up! Callum drags Goto to his feet and puts him in the ring. The fans applaud, and Callum hurries back in. Callum aims from a corner while Goto flounders away. The fans rally more, and Callum runs corner to corner. FLYING DROPKICK! Callum then chicken wings for a TIGER SUPLEX!
But the bad neck won’t let Callum bridge! Callum hurries to lateral press, TWO! And we’re just 10 minutes in! The fans rally, Callum fires up with a very Will Ospreay style “OI! OI! OI!” The fans rally behind that, and Callum brings Goto up. Callum reels Goto in, hooks a leg, FIRE- NO, Goto slips free of Firebolt, waistlocks, but Callum fights the lift. Callum runs, Goto follows, but then Callum dodges! Goto dodges, Callum dodges, then Callum hurdles! But Goto fireman’s carries! USHIGOROSHI! Both men are down and the fans fire up for that high speed exchange! Goto has the crowd behind him again as he rises up.
Goto storms up on Callum, stands him up, but Callum fires a forearm! Only to fall to his knees! Callum rises up but Goto DECKS him! Callum is running on fumes, but the fans do rally for him, too. Goto eggs him on and Callum manages to stand. Callum fires a forearm, drops to a knee, but Goto stands him up. Goto DECKS Callum again! Callum shakes out the stars and he snarls! Callum fires another forearm, but Goto DECKS him a third time! Goto eggs Callum on, the fans rally again, and Callum rises. Callum puts his hands behind his back and dares Goto to hit him! So Goto DECKS Callum a fourth time!
Khan & Akira coach Callum on but Red Shoes asks if Callum wants to stop. Callum shakes his head, he’s not gonna stop here. Callum stands again, leans on the ropes, then comes back for more! Callum even SPITS at Goto! The fans boo that, but Goto DECKS Callum for it! Goto watches Callum sputter, and Callum slowly rises again. But then he falls back over! Callum headbutts the mat to fire back up, and the fans rally behind him! Goto winds up and ROCKS Callum! Callum is back to get in Goto’s face! Goto fires a flurry of forearms! Callum CHOPS! Goto feels that one! The fans fire up and Callum roars, but Goto spins him! URA G T R!
Goto goes to run but Callum reels him in! GERMAN SUPLEX! ROUNDHOUSE! Callum runs, but into a fireman’s carry! G T W!! Cover, TWO!! We’re 15 minutes in as Goto stalks Callum to the apron. Goto stomps Callum, then stands him up. But Callum fights the fireman’s carry with elbows! Goto still lifts! Callum flails, slips down, and KICKS Goto! Callum goes up, up, and OSCUTTER 2.0 on the apron!! Both men fall to the floor and the fans fire up! Red Shoes checks, both men are able to continue, so a ring count starts. Khan fans off Callum while the fans rally. The count already passes 7 of 20, then hit 10, but both men are still down!
Callum rises at 13, drags himself in at 17, but Goto is still down! Goto rises up and springs in at 19! The fans fire up as this continues! Callum goes to a corner, runs up, BUSAIKU KNEE! Then he hurries to bring Goto into the drop zone! Callum roars, climbs, and the fans fire up! DIVING DOUBLE STOMPS!! Cover, TWO?!? Goto survives the coup de grace and Callum can’t believe it! Akira & Khan tell Callum to keep going, he’s almost done it! The fans rally and duel as Callum hobbles over. Callum stands Goto up, then runs, but Goto swings, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Both men stay up, and they DOUBLE LARIAT again!
The fans fire up, Callum returns, and DOUBLE LARIATS collide again! And again! Callum waistlocks, ripcords, RAINMAKER?!? Cover, TWO!!! Goto survives as Callum shouts out the former leader of Chaos! The fans are thunderous, Callum feeds off that energy, and Callum drags Goto up. Callum calls his shot, springboards, OSC- NO, Goto blocks the cutter! DISCUS- NO, Callum dodges and springboards! OSCUTTER 2.0!!! Cover, TWO!??! But Callum hooks a leg! FIREBOLT!!! Cover, TWO?!?! Goto survives again and the fans are electric! Callum is unsure what to do as we pass 20 minutes, but the fans dueling shakes the arena!
Callum drags Goto up, but Goto wrenches out! Goto spins Callum, dragon sleepers, but Callum slips free! Backslide! Goto rolls through, PENALTY KICK BLOCKED! Goto HEADBUTTS Callum, ripcords, RAINMAKER!!! Both men are down and the fans are thunderous again! Goto rises, he brings Callum up, and the fans rally as hard as they can! Goto HEADBUTTS away on Callum, then brings him up to HEADBUTT again! Goto snarls and the fans are thunderous again, as Goto suplexes for SHOTEN KAI!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Callum survives and Goto cannot believe it! The fans duel harder than ever before, and Goto rises again!
Goto roars and focuses his power! Callum sits up, into a BUZZSAW! But then Goto brings Callum around, but Callum drops to victory roll! TWO!! Callum SUPERKICKS, but Goto LARIATS!! Goto stands Callum up, dragon sleepers, but Callum fires shots from below! Goto blocks that arm, traps it, and G T R KAI!!! Cover, GOTO WINS!!
Winner: Hirooki Goto, by pinfall (still IWGP World Heavyweight Champion)
The Prince of Pace did his best to follow in the Aerial Assassin’s footsteps, but he is still a long way from reaching the top of the mountain. However, if this is how close he came on his first try, will nothing stop Callum Newman from being the future of NJPW?
As for Goto, the belt is put back around his waist, and he watches Callum walk away. Callum takes a moment to bow in deep respect to Goto before he and the Empire leave. Goto then grabs the mic, and the fans cheer him on. “No matter what anyone says, this is MY time!” The fans cheer that! Goto continues, “Who’s my next opponent? As a fighting champion, I’ll take on all challengers!” Wait! Zack Sabre Jr. makes his way back out here! Goto took this title from ZSJ so clearly ZSJ wants a rematch. ZSJ grabs a mic to tell Goto in Japanese, “Good work tonight. That was a fantastic match! Truly fantastic.
“You’ve been on a roll lately! You’re indeed a great champion. But I’m you’re next challenger!” The fans like the sound of that! Goto says, “I accept!” The fans really like that, and the two shake hands on it. Will the Submission Master make sure that- WAIT! Shingo Takagi is here?! He storms into the ring with a mic to say, “Pardon the intrusion!” The fans cheer as Takagi asks, “Mind if I speak my piece? Zack, hold on a moment. OI, GOTO! You really are something. You got a belt, a wife, and kids! And on top of that, you’re in Hontai!” The fans do applaud that with a bit of a chuckle.
Takagi points out that he, on the other hand, has no belt, no wife, no kids. “And now it looks like my faction is done… But that doesn’t mean I need to hang my head. I’ll soar to the top!” The fans applaud, and Takagi says the G in IWGP stands for Goto, right? But oi, oi, oi! You can’t spell “Shingo” OR “Takagi” without a G! He has two G’s, so he wants his shot at the title. At least, he’d like to say that. But he has no objects to Zack. Takagi did lose to ZSJ last time. So then Takagi will wait to challenge the winner of Goto VS ZSJ! The fans like that, too! Takagi says if it’s about G’s, Goto can’t argue Takagi’s point!
The three men all look to each other, and it looks like the deal is struck. Fierce Warrior VS Front Man, and the Rampaging Dragon gets the winner! Who will stand on the summit of NJPW going into the summer? Takagi and ZSJ take their leave, and Goto continues. “Again, thank you very much for coming today!” The fans applaud, and Goto says, “No matter who I’m up against, I will not be defeated. The Goto Revolution is far from over! Follow it until the very end! Let’s end with Goto’s G’s.” The fans chuckle, and Goto says he knows most of the locales had G in their names. But not in Fukuoka…
Even so, Goto still has this IWGP World title around his waist, so no worries there. IKU ZO! The fans cheer, and Goto says, “The G in IWGP is for GOTO!” The streamers fly, and the Fierce Warrior is ready to lead NJPW on! But will things only heat up from here on out?
My Thoughts:
An awesome event for Wrestling Dontaku’s finale, and we’re already building towards Dominion next month. I was rather surprised that the Six Woman Tag was so quick. Well, I feel like a lot of Stardom matches on a NJPW show end up like that… But the 10 Man Tag with Tanahashi’s team beating TMDK, and then the 8 Man Tag of LIJ winning, both of those matches felt just as fast/short. I suppose on some level, they did it because we all had a feeling who was winning. Tanahashi’s team wins because he also had special guests Tajiri and Ryota, so that was just a great moment for some longstanding legends.
LIJ winning was apparently to also commemorate their last match as a faction. With Titan being their CMLL member, we only have Hiromu, Takagi and Tsuji. I suppose a trio isn’t necessarily a faction, but I’m surprised they just sprang this dissolution on us. Great match from Yota VS Yuya, but I think they dragged it out a bit at the start. It got hot by the end, and Yota retaining was a great move. Gabe Kidd calling his shot is also a great move, he and Yota are going to have a great rematch from their time limit draw. And then awesome main event from Goto VS Callum, with Callum looking great even in defeat. Callum is definitely on his way, maybe he’ll really build up his power level in the G1 Climax this year.
Great promo to close, with Goto, ZSJ and Takagi establishing the next couple of title shots. I think Goto VS ZSJ has been made for Resurgence this Friday, so they’re getting that right out of the way so Takagi can face the champion at Dominion. At the same time, they kinda have to because Best of the Super Juniors is going to dominate May. Resurgence would be a wild place for a title change since it’s in the US and it’s a true PPV, so I’m not liking ZSJ’s chances.
My Score: 9.1/10
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