Coverage
Mitchell’s WWE Raw Results & Report! (1/22/24)
What shape is Seth Rollins in?
How is the Visionary looking on the Road to WrestleMania?
We’re just FIVE DAYS away from The Royal Rumble, but Seth Rollins must first address his physical condition as WWE World Heavyweight Champion!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Imperium w/ Gunther VS The New Day; Double Count-Out Draw.
- Ivy Nile w/ Maxxine Dupri VS Sarah Logan; Ivy wins.
- The Miz VS Dominik Mysterio w/ Finn Balor & JD McDonagh; Dom wins.
- Chad Gable VS Ivar; Ivar wins.
- Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell VS Shayna Baszler & Zoey Stark; Shayna & Stark win.
- Drew McIntyre VS Damian Priest; McIntyre wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Seth Rollins is here!
The fans fire up as The Visionary makes his way out to the ring, but that knee brace stands out against that volt green suit he’s wearing. The World Heavyweight Champion still high-fives fans and smiles for them as he goes down the ramp. Fans still sing “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” as Rollins gets the mic. The fans cheer for Rollins, and even shift to “Thank You, Seth!” as they anticipate what he’s here to say. Rollins takes a moment, and he tells, “New Orleans! Welcome to Monday Night Rollins. And it has been a long week, so, I really appreciate that. Thank you, guys.”
Rollins continues by saying seven days ago, he was in this ring, defending the WHC against Jinder Mahal. Fans boo but Rollins says it’s okay, he beat him. But he jumps off ropes, moonsaults like he usually does, and he just felt his knee kinda go in in a way that it is not supposed to. He did what he does, he finished the match, beat Jinder. He went to the back, sat down, and that was the first time it set in that he might be out for a long time. Earlier that night, he’d spoken backstage about how every single title defense, he only gets better and stronger, so he couldn’t help but feel, sitting there all helpless, that he was a liar.
Fans say no, but Rollins is a bit emotional as he says this was the first time where it was a real possibility that he’d miss WrestleMania. Fans again chant “NO! NO! NO!” Rollins appreciates all that, but they still had to get the MRI, get a look at it, and middle of the week the results came in. They weren’t great. A grade two tear of the MCL, a partial tear of the meniscus, and the docs are saying that even with surgery, we’re talking three to four months. Now if it were up to him, he’d be back next week, stomping heads into the mat because it’s what he loves to do.
But unfortunately, it isn’t just up to him. He can’t just say no, as much as he’d like to. “We don’t really know what the future holds.” So he’s taking it day by day, week by week- And then Imperium interrupts… Der Ring General, Gunther, leads the way as he, Ludwig Kaiser & Giovanni Vinci make their way out to the ring now. Fans boo as the Intercontinental Champion steps into the ring to stand across from the World Heavyweight Champion. Rollins says he has no time for this. If they’re gonna make an example out of him, then just do it. Don’t waste time, just bring it. Gunther says not to worry about Ludwig & Vinci, they have a match later tonight.
What Rollins should worry about is Gunther. Fans boo again but Gunther says he thought and Rollins were avoiding each other, and that today would be a great opportunity to just honestly let Rollins know what he thinks of him. Rollins chuckles and says okay, if that’s the case, should they let him say what he thinks? Fans are torn but Rollins says have at it. Gunther says no reason to be on edge. Just from the beginning, Rollins was in a tough spot. He was labeled the workhorse champion right from the start. He had to be the guy that came out here, every week, and fight honestly for every victory, becoming a champion that brings dignity, respect and honor to a title.
Gunther says Rollins became a champion that everybody can be proud of. Just like Gunther. But now, it pulls on Gunther’s heartstrings to see Rollins like this. And now we find Rollins might not make it to Mania, that honestly makes Gunther sad. Well, see, Gunther, he and his boys should’ve let Rollins finish. What he was about to say is that he doesn’t give a damn what the doctors tell him. He doesn’t give a damn how hard he has to rehab, how hard he has to push his knee, he WILL keep his promise and take this title into WrestleMania! The fans fire up for that! And Rollins will do every single thing in his power to walk out of Mania the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!
Fans fire up hearing that, and Gunther says that’s great! Happy to hear it! Because Gunther thought we were gonna see a great champion fall. But now Rollins is proclaiming to do everything it takes to be a champion at Mania. Gunther admires that. Because Gunther would do the same thing if he was in Rollins’ position. And in fact, Rollins reminds Gunther of himself. So from one great champion to another, on Saturday, Gunther will win the Royal Rumble. And then he will choose Rollins as his opponent for WrestleMania! But with all due respect, Gunther will target that knee, that back, and everything that is not 100%, and he will beat Rollins to become WHC!
Fans boo as Gunther smirks at Rollins, and even chant “You Suck! You Suck!” But Rollins says, “I appreciate your honesty, Gunther. Now here’s a little honesty from me. You can challenge me at WrestleMania if you win the Royal Rumble but I want you to remember one thing. Remember who you’re coming after.” Rollins drops the mic and offers a handshake. Gunther says, “You better remember who’s coming after you.” Gunther drops his mic and shakes Rollins’ hand. The challenge is made, but will either man be in that ring in Philadelphia?
Wait, Xavier Woods jumps out from the crowd to CLOBBER Ludwig & Vinci!! Kofi jumps in, too! The New Day gets the jump on Imperium, and Rollins gets out of the ring as quickly as he can so the brawl can get in the ropes! Woods TOSSES Vinci back out, Kofi clotheslines Kaiser up and out! Gunther is furious, will Imperium rebound from this embarrassing ambush?
Imperium w/ GUNTHER VS The New Day!
Raw returns and the match is already going. Vinci scoops, Kofi slips out to shove but Vinci ducks ‘n’ dodges to CROSSBODY! Fans boo but Vinci CHOPS Kofi in a corner. Vinci BOOTS Kofi, stomps a mudhole, then lets off to BOOT Kofi again! Vinci talks trash on Kofi, brings him around, and Kofi fires off haymakers! Fans fire up as Kofi whips, but Vinci reverses. Kofi goes up and up and MISSILE DROPKICKS! Kofi drags Vinci up, bumps him off buckles, then stomps a mudhole in. Woods tags, he stomps away on Vinci, too! The ref counts, Kofi lets off but Woods keeps going! Fans fire up, the ref counts more, and Woods lets off.
Woods warns Kaiser, then he CLUBS Vinci. And CHOPS Vinci! And CHOPS again! But Vinci FLAPJACKS Woods off ropes! Vinci then LARIATS Woods down! Tag to Kaiser and he rains down fists. Kaiser then sits Woods up to PENALTY KICK! Kaiser stares Kofi down, then fires hands on Woods. Kaiser CHOPS Woods, fires off hands and stomps, then lets off. The ref reprimands, Kaiser storms up but Woods throws a body shot, then a CHOP! Kaiser snarls, he goes after Woods and he rains down fists! The ref counts, Kaiser lets off and fans boo more. Kaiser drags Woods up to kick, but Woods blocks!
Woods snarls, and he CHOPS! And CHOPS! And ENZIGIRIS! Kaiser flops out of the ring, Vinci shouts to him, but the fans rally. Woods crawls, Vinci runs in but Woods TOSSES Vinci out hard! Fans fire up as Woods crawls, but Kaiser drags him out! Vinci gets Woods up to APRON BACK SUPLEX! Then Kaiser THROWS Woods into barriers! Kofi rushes over to back Imperium off, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and Woods fires CHOPS on Vinci, but Vinci CHOPS back! The fans “WOO~!” with every CHOP, but Vinci kicks a leg out. Vinci whips Woods to a corner, runs up, but Woods BOOTS him down! The fans fire up as Woods and Vinci crawl for their corners, hot tags to Kaiser and Kofi! The fans fire up as Kofi springboards to AX HANDLE Kaiser! Kofi BLAST Vinci, fires off on Kaiser, but Vinci storms in to CLUB Kofi! Kofi DECKS Vinci! Kofi clotheslines Kaiser up and out, then he DIVES onto Vinci! Kofi keeps moving to DIVE onto Kaiser! Kofi rains down fists on Kaiser, then drags him up for forearms!
But Vinci WRECKS Kofi with a dropkick! Imperium mugs Kofi but Woods WRECKS Imperium with a dropkick! Woods fires off on Vinci, Kofi fires off on Kaiser, and the fans are thunderous! Kofi HEADBUTTS Kaiser, Woods CLUBS away on Vinci but Vinci throws hands back. Kofi sends Kaiser into barriers, the ring count hits TEN!!
Double Count-Out Draw
Fans boo but Kofi then sends Vinci into barriers! Kofi runs up but Vinci TOSSES Kofi up and over! Vinci goes out, this brawl continues in the crowd! Woods meanwhile POSTS Kaiser, then RAMS him into barriers by the timekeeper’s area! Kofi and Vinci brawl in the tech area, Woods and Kaiser ringside, Woods HAMMERS away! Woods KNEES Kaiser down! Vinci DECKS Kofi! Kaiser gets up to POST Woods! Kaiser TOSSES Woods into the timekeeper’s area! Kaiser stomps away on Woods, Vinci CLUBS Kofi, and fans boo as Kaiser grabs a chair! Kaiser shoves things around to make room, and Vinci brings Kofi over
Kaiser says they’re gonna end this once and for all! But then Woods BODIES Kaiser into road cases! Woods fires off on Vinci, then throws hands down on Kaiser! Woods brings Kaiser up onto the road cases!! The fans are going nuts as Woods fires off more haymakers on Kaiser’s face! Then Woods looks down below and smiles. Woods brings Kaiser around and fireman’s carries! But Vinci hurries up to attack Woods! Fans boo as Imperium mugs Woods! Imperium gets Woods up, to DOUBLE SUPLEX, but Kofi makes the save! DOUBLE SPEAR off the cases and through some tables!! New Orleans loses their minds over it!
The refs hurry over to check on all four men. Assuming these four can stand back up, will they only go after each other with even more ferocity?
The Judgment Day talks backstage.
They just finished watching the hype package for Damian Priest VS Drew McIntyre, and Finn is fired up. Rhea can’t believe they’re going to war with Drew. Because it just feels to her that Priest wants to fight everyone. She just talked with Adam Pearce and he informed her that Priest & Finn defend the tag titles against DIY. So she really thinks McIntyre should be the least of their worries. Priest says he isn’t trying to go around fighting everyone! But McIntyre WILL be handled by Priest! And he’s not the one walking around here with a big head just cuz he’s on the cover of 2K24. And he’s also not the one going into Pearce’s office to make matches for the team every other week!
Here’s an idea, Rhea: stop going to Pearce’s office! Priest is gonna go clear his head for his match tonight, but he wants Rhea to understand Judgment Day business is under control. Priest storms out, Rhea complains to the others about what Priest just said. She then tells JD & Dom that DIY should’ve been handled a long time ago! Finn agrees, a long time ago. Rhea is disappointed in them. See? You disappointed Rhea! JD apologizes. And then Rhea turns his attention to Finn. What’s so funny? Why’s he smiling and snickering all the time? Finn says it’s kinda funny. Rhea says nothing’s funny. Priest will handle McIntyre alone.
Which means Finn is ringside for Dom’s match. It’s been awhile since we’ve seen that vicious side of Finn Balor. Oh, she wants vicious? He’ll show us vicious. Finn leads the boys out, will the Prince help Dirty Dom handle biz against The Miz?
Backstage interview with Ivy Nile & Maxxine Dupri.
Jackie Redmond is with them at gorilla position and says we’ve seen the workout videos, Ivy has been training so hard for this Saturday and the Royal Rumble. But she has “Valhalla” Sarah Logan tonight, what would this win do for her? Maxxine says here’s the thing: Lil’ Miss Val ain’t ready for Ivy Nile! She ain’t the Pitbull for nothing! The Creeds then walk in and hype up “big guy” Ivy. She has them calm down and says she’s got this. “Let’s get this barefooted freak.” Ivy heads out, Maxxine following, and Julius scolds Brutus for being too hyper. But will the Diamond Mine’s top dog show Sarah Logan who runs the yard?
Ivy Nile w/ Maxxine Dupri VS Sarah Logan!
Raw returns and “Valhalla is here” as Sarah makes her entrance. The bell rings and Sarah rushes in, but Ivy fireman’s carries! Sarah slips free, claws at Ivy’s face, but Ivy snapmares free and KCIKS her! Ivy whips, Sarah reverses and KNEES Ivy against ropes! Wait, is that Nikki Cross on the ramp? Sarah CLUBS away on Ivy, the ref counts and Ivy flops out of th ering. Sarah goes out to CLOBBER Ivy! Fans boo but Sarah hauls Ivy up to put her in the ring. Sarah then stalks Ivy, sits her up and smothers her into some fishhooks to the mouth. The ref counts, Sarah taunts Ivy as she brings her up, but Ivy fires forearms!
Sarah RAMS into Ivy but Iviy throws mroes hots! Sarah ducks the roundhouse but not the ENZIGIRI! Sarah goes to ropes, bites the ropes, and runs back in. Ivy UPPERCUTS, UPPERCUTS, then dodges the counter punch to tilt-o-whirl RANA! Fans fire up and Ivy gts moinv, but into a POP-UP HEADBUTT! Cover, feet on the ropes! Maxxine points it out, the ref stops Sarah, and Sarah snarls at Maxxine. Maxxine says it’s the rules! Sarah runs up on Ivy but Ivy dodges! Sarah hits buckles, Ivy runs in but Sarah puts her on the apron. Sarah climbs up, brings Ivy to the top, and Sarah bends Ivy! But Ivy SMACKS Sarah off the post!
Ivy climbs up, uses the post for balance, and the fans fire up for Ivy’s SUPER BULLDOG! Cover, Ivy wins!
Winner: Ivy Nile, by pinfall
The #Pitbulldog gets Ivy a huge win! Will Ivy fight harder than all of the 29 other women in the Rumble to get the biggest win of her career?
The New Day regroups backstage.
They made it through the medical exam, but Jey Uso walks over to say his bois the NEW~ DAY~ have new ways to get down ‘n’ gritty here in New Orleans. He is hyped up, and then Jackie walks over for an interview. This situation with Imperium is getting more and more intense, where does this end? Woods says first thing’s first, The New Day is sick and tired of people walking into the WWE and thinking at first glance, New Day doesn’t do this. They are not 12 TIME Tag Team Champions for no reason! They are the best tag team today and have been for a decade!
Kofi says people have it confused that because of the unicorns and the pancakes and the cereal, that they can’t get down when the time is right! What you saw out there with them taking out Imperium was an example of what happens when you push them too far and cross the New Day. Jey ain’t the only one planning on winning belts this year. New Day took out the henchmen, it’s time for the big boss! Wait, Damage CTRL walks in in the background, what’re they doing on Raw? But as Kofi says, he is challenging Gunther for that Intercontinental Championship next week, here on Raw! Jey adds, “Yeet!”
Win or lose in the Rumble this Saturday, Kofi is looking to get some gold of his own. He’s held the Intercontinental Championship before, will he take down the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion ever to hold it again?
Nia Jax is here!
The Irresistible Force has come to New Orleans and the fans boo her as she goes to the ring. Nia gets the mic to say, “The first time I came face-to-face with Rhea Ripley, one of the most dominant champions in our history, she got squashed. The first time I went 1-on-1 with Becky, excuse me, ‘The Man,’ Becky Lynch, one of the greatest superstars in the history of this business, she got squashed. Now I know you think I’m coming out here to complain that they were in this very ring last week saying, ‘I wanna face you at WrestleMania, Becky!’ ‘I wanna face you at WrestleMania, Rhea!’ I completely understand!
“Rhea wants to face Becky, who she thinks she can beat. She doesn’t wanna face me, who she knows she can’t beat! And Becky… Becky’s on her path to WrestleMania. And she knows that any path with me in it has her getting squashed again. So this Saturday at the Royal Rumble, I’m gonna kill both of their dreams. I’m gonna go to WrestleMania as-” WAIT! Here comes Becky! The fans fire up as we’ve just entered the Big Time, and Becky says, “Shut up, Nia, ya dope. Congratulations, you beat me. At least that gives you something new to talk about for the next five years.”
Becky gets in the ring with Nia and says what is interesting is, going into the Rumble, she knows she has a big target on her back. But nobody has a bigger target on her back than Nia. And not because she is literally bigger, but because that locker room, they don’t agree on anything. They don’t agree at all, except on one thing: Nobody likes Nia. Fans cheer that! Becky says yeah, Nia pushes them down, throws her weight around, probably injured half of them, and so, on Saturday, Becky isn’t sure what she’ll enjoy more: Winning the Rumble a second time in her career; or watching Nia lose the Rumble.
But wait! Here comes Bayley! “Ding dong, hello, guys! Actually, both of you idiots are gonna lose, ha ha!” Bayley says she wanted to talk to Rhea, but this is almost better. Her two old pals. She tells fans to shut up! Then she says this is quite the reunion here. Nia, long time, no see. But Bayley is here to make one thing absolutely clear: SHE is winning the Rumble! SHE is gonna point to the WrestleMania sign! Because 2024 is the Year of- SHE SHOVES BECKY INTO NIA! Bayley punches away on Becky but Nia puts Bayley in a corner for stomps! Becky runs up to fire off on Nia! Bayley returns, but gets a MANHANDLE SLAM!
Nia storms up to TOSS Becky up and out, a la the Rumble! Then Nia runs to drop the leg, brother! Bayley got squashed now, and Nia grins. The refs rush out here to stop this from getting any worse! But will Nia be able to squash and toss 29 other women to be #1 contender? Or will even she fail to defeat the odds?
The Miz VS Dominik Mysterio w/ Finn Balor & JD McDonagh!
The Awesome Truth tried but failed to bring down The Prince & The Punisher, but the Hollywood A-Lister is looking to avenge R-Truth. Will Miz make this a must-see chapter in his story with Judgment Day? Or will Dirty Dom win this one with help from the boys?
Raw returns and The Miz makes his entrance. The bell rings and Miz circles with Dom. They tie up, Miz powers Dom back but Dom puts Miz in a corner. The fans chant, “We Want Truth! We Want Truth!” but Dom lets off on Miz with a shove. JD says no, they don’t get Truth! Miz storms up on Dom, ties up with him again, and puts Dom back in a corner. Dom fights but Miz keeps him cornered, but then lets off at 4. Miz fakes chop and he gets Dom to flinch! Dom runs up but Miz arm-drags! And arm-drags! Dom avoids the third but Miz avoids a kick to roll Dom up! TWO, and Miz CHOPS! Miz whips, Dom KICKS! But then Miz LARIATS Dom!
Fans fire up with Miz as he taunts Finn & JD. Miz kicks Dom, throws haymakers, and he has Dom in a corner again. The ref counts, Miz lets off at 4, but Dom kicks a leg! Dom throws hands, then TOSSES Miz out! Dom distracts the ref and Finn DECKS Miz! Fans boo but Finn does as Rhea wants. Dom builds speed and DIVES, sending Miz into the desk! Fans boo as Dom flexes, and Finn & JD both flex with him. Dom puts Miz in, gives some Latino Heat, and then slingshot SENTONS! Cover, TWO! Dom stays on Miz with a rain of fists, then soaks up the heat. Fans boo more, but Dom stalks Miz. Dom sits Miz up but fans chant “YOU SUCK!”
Dom ROCKS Miz with a right, but the fans rally behind Miz. Dom throws more fists, Miz stands up, and he CHOPS! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Miz whips, then kitchen sink knees! Dom goes to a corner and gets the A-LIST LARIAT! Miz pushes Dom away, kicks at JD, but Dom kicks the ropes! Miz gets jammed up and Dom dumps him out! Dom soaks up more heat as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and both men are down after a collision during commercial! The fans rally as Dom and Miz stir, and Miz stands up first. Miz counter punches Dom as the fans rally behind him! Dom kicks low, runs, but into a LARIAT! Miz rallies, gets Dom for a dragon sleeper, BACKBREAKER to NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Dom survives the A-List Combination and that helps JD & Finn breathe. But Miz says, “MASSIVE! BALLS!” Finn distracts him, though! Dom rolls Miz up, TWO! Miz has the roll-up, TWO! Miz ducks ‘n dodges to WRECK Finn with a dropkick! Then Miz RANAS JD to join him!
Fans fire up as Miz shoulders into Dom, springboards and CROSSBODIES! Cover, TWO! Fans fire up as Miz stands up again. Dom sits up, into a KICK! And KICK! KICK! “YES! YES! YES!” Miz winds up, to BUZZSAW! Dom wobbles, into a SUPERKICK! Miz KICKS Dom in the side, then full nelsons, but Dom victory rolls through! Miz ends up on ropes, Dom dials it up, but Miz ducks the call! Miz ELBOWS Dom away, but JD distracts the ref! Finn GAMANGIRIS Miz, Dom redials, 619!! Dom then goes up, FROG SPLASH!! Cover, Dom wins!
Winner: Dominik Mysterio, by pinfall
Fans boo as Judgment Day steals this, and then Finn fires off fists! Finn is showing he’s vicious, but here comes DIY! Fans fire up for Gargano & Ciampa rush out there! Ciampa dodges Dom, Gargano SUPERKICKS him! Ciampa RAMS into JD & Finn, then Gargano SLINGSHOT SPEARS JD! Ciampa sends Finn running, so Gargano brings JD up! The Irish Ace is fed to Miz for the SKULL-CRUSHING FINALE! And then Miz sets JD up so DIY can- NO, Finn saves JD and the Judgment Day retreats! Fans boo, but we’re just one week away from DIY VS Prince & Punisher! Will Ciampa & Gargano soon be undisputed?
Backstage interview with Damian Priest.
Speaking of those tag titles, Jackie is with the other half of the Tag Team Champions. This match with McIntyre has been months in the making, so what is his mindset going into tonight’s main event? Priest first congratulates Dom on the win over Miz, just like Priest knew he would. As for McIntyre- Truth barges in. He has Priest’s cut for this week’s sales on the “Tom & Nick Mysterio” shirts. Now, we gotta do something about JD McDonagh, he added Truth on Venmo. Priest has Truth slow down. What Priest has going on is pretty serious. He appreciates Truth’s sense of humor, but not the right time. Oh, right, Truth understands.
Truth hurries out and says he’ll see DP later. Priest gets back to McIntyre. McIntyre likes to talk and “be real,” so here’s some real talk on McIntyre. “The guy talks about when he was the man around here, right? That was at a time when everyone was struggling. Then everyone was back to 100, and what happened? He couldn’t beat Roman, he couldn’t beat Gunther, and now he can’t beat Seth Rollins. And out of pure jealousy, he wants to make sure I don’t become champion.” One way or another, from cashing in or winning the Rumble to on to Mania, Priest will be World Heavyweight Champion.
As far as McIntyre goes, he WILL receive his punishment. Priest heads out, determined as ever, but will Senor Money in the Bank make an example out of the Scottish Terminator? Or will it be the other way around?
Bronson Reed speaks.
“I am fully aware that Jey Uso intends to become a singles champion here in the WWE. But Jey, like I’ve told you, so do I. And that means that eventually, our paths are going to cross. And the sooner, the better. Because nothing will stand in my way. So Jey Uso, face me next week on Raw so you can be made an example of by BIG Bronson Reed!” The Colossal Aussie has thrown down the challenge, will Main Event Jey be ready for a Tsunami?
Chad Gable VS Ivar!
Akira Tozawa pulled off the huge upset when he pinned the War Beard, but then Ivar was a sore loser and smashed Tozawa in return. Will Master Gable make sure Ivar loses a second match in a row? Or will nothing stop the Viking Raider on his way to the Rumble?
Raw returns and Ivar makes his entrance. The bell rings and Gable ROLLING KICKS Ivar! Ivar staggers, Gable shoves him and goes up, to FLYING CLOTHESLINE! Ivar stays up so Gable CHOPS and CHOPS! Gable whips, Ivar reverses but Gable goes up and over. Gable then ducks ‘n’ dodges, but Ivar scoops him for a SPINNING POWERSLAM! Ivar snarls and he CLUBS away on Gable! Ivar then BOOTS Gable, then hauls him up. Ivar back suplexes, Gable lands on his feet and DORPKICKS! Ivar rebounds but Gable avoids the elbow drop! Gable fires off forearms, uppercuts, and a throat chop!
Ivar swings, Gable dodges and he mule kicks! Gable runs to SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Gable hurries up top, and he DIVING HEADBUTTS! Cover, TWO! Ivar is still in this but Gable keeps his cool. Gable waistlocks and lifts, but Ivar elbows free! Ivar swings, but into a clinch! Ivar is too big for that lift and he UPPERCUTS! Ivar then suplexes Gable near the ropes! Gable tumbles up and out to the floor, then Ivar goes to the apron! Ivar DIVING SPLASHES to the floor! The War Beard is standing tall while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again and both men are up top! Gable and Ivar brawl, and then Gable clinches! Gable brings Ivar to the very top, for a SUPER EXPLODER!! New Orleans goes wild while both men are down! Ivar flounders away but Gable drags himself up with the ropes. Gable runs up on Ivar to CROSSBODY Ivar and himself out of the ring! Ivar runs up, but Gable dodges! Ivar clips the post, Gable pushes Ivar in! Ivar hobbles around as Gable gets in, but then Ivar catches Gable into underhooks! TIGER DRIVER! Cover, TWO!! Ivar is frustrated as Gable survives, but the fans rally up. Ivar goes back, Gable gets the leg! DRAGON SCREW!
Gable hurries, goes up, and he victory rolls Ivar, into the ANKLE LOCK! Fans fire up as Ivar flails and reaches out! Gable leans on the hold, but Ivar turns over to BOOT Gable away. Ivar goes to a corner, Gable runs in, but into a SEATED SENTON! Ivar has Gable in the drop zone and he goes up the corner! Ivar DIVING LEG DROPS! Cover, TWO?!? Gable survives and the fans fire up again! Ivar waits on Gable to get up, and Gable goes to the other corner. The fans rally, Ivar spins, but Gable blocks the heel kick!? And then he has the ANKLE LOCK!! Ivar flails, reaches out, claws his way forward, and has the ROPEBREAK!
Gable lets go in frustration, and storms up, but into a SKY HIGH! Cover, TWO! Ivar huffs and puffs and hobbles his way to the corner. Ivar climbs up again, the bad leg slowing him down. Fans freak out as Ivar DOOMSAULTS but FLOPS as Gable moves! Gable hurries to waistlock, and GERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO?!?! Ivar is still in this and fans can’t believe it! But Gable hurries up the corner now, only for Ivar to CHOP him! Ivar ROCKS Gable, he climbs up after him, and he brings Gable up to SUPER- NO, Gable slips around, SUPER GERMAN SUPLEX!! Gable hurries back up, to see Sarah there?!
Sarah SHOUTS at Gable, and Ivar ROCKET LAUNCHES Gable!! Gable is in the drop zone, Ivar goes up top, and he DOOMSAULTS!!! Cover, Ivar wins!
Winner: Ivar, by pinfall
“Valhalla” helped the chosen warrior, and Ivar is now 2-1 with The Alpha Academy. Will the raid continue on and find its way to WrestleMania?
Cody Rhodes is here!
New Orleans fires up for the American Nightmare as he makes his way to the ring, and sings along with his song, “WHOA~ OH~!” The pyro goes off, Cody continues down the ramp to high-five fans and autograph signs. Cody then gets the mic and hears the fans chanting for him. But then here comes CM Punk! Fans fire up again as the Second City Saint, the Best in the World, makes his entrance, and now the fans sing along with Cult of Personality. Punk says “IT’S CLOBBERING TIME~!” and he high-fives fans on his way to the ring. Punk takes a moment to revel in the cheers before stepping in to be face to face with Cody.
Cody and Punk shake hands, and then Punk gets himself a mic. Punk says that they should just take a moment to enjoy this. They’ve been on very different paths to get to here. Saturday night changes everything, hopefully they’ll still be friends on Sunday morning, but let’s just enjoy this moment. The fans chant for Cody, for Punk, maybe both at the same time, it’s hard to tell. Cody then says, “So, NOLA…! More specifically, CM Punk… What do you want to talk about?” Punk thinks while the fans chant for him again, and he says he wants to talk about Cody’s dad.
Punk doesn’t know if Cody knows this story, but in 2007, Dusty calls Punk on the phone and says he is sending his youngest son to Ohio Valley Wrestler to start his journey as a wrestler. And Dusty told Punk to keep an eye on his boy. Punk wasn’t sure he was the right guy for the job, he surely didn’t know Cody then. But when the American Dream asks you for a favor, you say yes. Fans cheer that, and Punk says it wasn’t a hard job. Punk stayed out of Cody’s way, Cody didn’t get himself into any trouble that he couldn’t talk his way out of, and Cody didn’t fall for the same vices so many others did.
Punk watched Cody grow from a preliminary wrestler into the bonafide, main event caliber superstar that stands before us today. And it might sound a little condescending coming from Punk, but Punk is proud of Cody. Punk brings that story up and Dusty up, because on Saturday, Punk feels like he’s breaking a promise. When the Rumble is happening, when the bell rings, should they cross paths, Punk is not gonna be looking out for Cody, Punk is gonna be looking for him. Punk will do what he has to, from punching him in the face to throwing him over the top rope, because Punk vows to WIN the Rumble and main event WrestleMania.
Fans are torn there, but Cody says Punk isn’t alone in that feeling of talking to Cody but thinking about Dusty. Cody has met countless legends, luminaries and dignitaries in this industry, from Michael Hayes to Bruce Prichard to Triple H to even Mr. Heyman. When they see Cody, they can’t help but see The American Dream. It’s a very large shadow. But Cody knows Punk knows that Cody has done everything in his power to not be in the shadow but to be the light in that shadow, to subvert the expectations on his own last name and be his own man.
Talk about OVW, Punk isn’t lying. Cody showed up there, folk style wrestling only, no matches under his belt, a complete nepotism hire, and there Punk was. Punk had toiled on the indies for 10 YEARS. He could’ve treated Cody poorly, but he did not. Punk treated Cody as a peer, and from then on, they have been friends. That is what makes this all bittersweet. Because in the Rumble, there are no friends. Punk says what about on Sunday? Yeah, there’s no friends in the Rumble. Punk’s been in more than Cody has. But what about Sunday morning? Punk can separate business from personal. Can Cody?
Punk wasn’t born into this but Cody was. Cody grew up in this business, personal to him IS the business. Cody is the son of one of the most legendary pro-wrestlers of all time! And Punk said to start this, they have traveled very different paths. Punk had no famous dads. When Cody showed up to OVW, other people saw Dusty, but not Punk. Punk saw Cody. It wasn’t nepotism to Punk, because where everyone saw Cody being on third base and being afforded all these opportunities that Punk didn’t get because he had to scratch and claw to where he was, he saw the burden of Cody’s last name.
Punk saw how hard it’d be for Cody to get out of that shadow, and congratulations, because Cody has done that with flying colors. The fans cheer that, and Punk says for all the differences, such as Cody in his very nice and expensive suit and Punk in his workout clothes, they’ve had very different paths but have one very similar goal. Punk didn’t have the famous dad, Dusty Rhodes, American Dream, “Son of a Plumber” and global, international heavyweight champion superstar wrestler recognized on the streets, dined with kings and queens. How does the rest of it go? Cody says “Slept in alleys, dined on pork and beans.”
Yeah, Punk didn’t have the famous dad with all that. His dad was just a regular guy, an electrician. So it’s kinda ironic, huh? Punk is more The American Dream than Cody is. Cody says okay, then, “American Dream,” here is what Cody wants to talk about. Let’s talk about “The Pipebomb.” Punk throws the WWE logo off his mic and says go ahead. Cody reminds us that Punk sat on stage, said words, rattled off the formula for a revolution, and inspired countless numbers. There are wrestlers who got in this ring because of that speech. Count Cody as one of them. But then, Punk left. And when Punk left, he really left.
Punk didn’t pass the torch, he just dropped it on the way out. He didn’t care who picked it up, but Cody’s pretty sure Punk knows who did. Cody did. “Everything that you spoke about, I literally did! So where you talked, I walked. And what is actually ironic, that makes me more CM Punk than you!” Fans are fired up hearing all this! Punk takes off the hoody and puts that aside, saying it’s getting hot in here. Cody is more Punk than Punk? Well allow Punk to give Cody the full Road to WrestleMania CM Punk experience. Cody has carried this company on his back for a soul-crushing two years, and he’s right around the corner and he’s handed to cover of 2K24.
Congrats, by the way! On sale pretty soon, huh? And right as Cody’s about to cross the finish line and #FinishTheStory, what’s that in the distance? A much bigger superstar who hasn’t been here in a very long time, coming to take it all away from you! And Punk is talking about himself. Oh, there you go, Punk looking out for Cody. Punk might be right. He talked about the American Dream, so he should know Dusty was Cody’s best friend. Dusty frequently quoted John Wayne, and the one Cody heard the most is, “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyways.” Punk may be right but Cody has only one direction he can go, and that is forward!
That direction in the Royal Rumble goes through Punk. Cody drops the mic, and then so does Punk. Cody goes to leave but Punk turns him right around! The fans fire up as these two are forehead to forehead, then the two back off. The fans are torn between these two, and both men exit the ring on opposite ends. This could very well be a collision that is destined to happen, will we see it in the Royal Rumble?
Candice LeRae & Indi Hartwell VS Shayna Baszler & Zoey Stark!
While the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships are being defended this Friday, The Poison Pixie & #IndiWrestling are finding their way into the title picture. But the same can be said of The Queen of Spades & The Hunter! Will Candice & Indi or Shayna & Stark take one more step closer to the gold as we head down the Road to WrestleMania?
Kayden Carter & Katana Chance are ringside to watch this, even though The Kabuki Warriors are coming for them on SmackDown. The teams sort out and Shayna starts against Candice. These two tie up, are in a deadlock, but Shayna trips Candice and then scuffs her. Candice gets up in a huff and she resets with Shayna. They tie up again, Shayna powers Candice back to a corner, but the ref counts. Shayna scuffs Candice again, then trips her to sit her down! Shayna taunts Candice, then runs up, but Candice dodges! Candice feints to trip Shayna now! Candice eggs Shayna on, and Shayna runs up, into an arm-drag!
Candice arm-drags again, and again, then taunts Shayna more. Stark tags in but Shayna says she had this. Stark says no, she’ll get this. But Indi tags in, kicks and JABS and DECKS Stark! Indi puts Stark in ropes, UPPERCUTS her, then runs side to side. Tag to Candice before Indi BOOTS Stark down! Shayna runs up, Indi TOSSES her, and Candice goes up! Indi helps her tightrope walk, to then FLYING RANA Stark onto Shayna! The fans fire up as Candice & Indi stand tall, and Indi copies Kayden’s dance moves as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns and Stark CLUBS away on Indi. Stark scuffs Indi around, then runs, to springboard, into a SPINEBUSTER! Fans fire up while both women are down, and Stark crawls. Chelsea green & Piper Niven are watching as hot tags are made to Shayna and Candice! Candice fires off on Shayna, LARIATS then DROPKICKS! Stark runs up but into a kick and ENZIGIRI! Candice UPPERCUTS Shayna in a corner, snapmares her, then runs up, CODE BREAKER SENTON COMBO! Cover on Shayna but Stark breaks it! Indi whips Stark but Stark reverse. Indi is on the apron, Stark SUPERKICKS her down!
Candice TOSSES Stark out, but Shayna grabs Candice for the KIRAFUDA KLUTCH! Candice RAMS Shayna into a corner, but Stark tags in! Shayna carries Candice in the sleeper, but Candice pushes back to roll back! But it won’t count as a cover, Stark is legal! And speaking of, Stark deadlifts Candice up to Z 360!! Cover, Stark & Shayna win!
Winners: Shayna Baszler & Zoey Stark, by pinfall
The champs like the teamwork they just saw, and they step into the ring to say they’ll be ready to take them on. But wait! The Kabuki Warriors attack! Shayna & Stark back off to let Asuka & Kairi beat down the champs! The showdown happens on SmackDown, will the party be over for Kayden & Katana?
Backstage interview with Drew McIntyre.
Jackie is with the Scottish Terminator and says before talking about tonight’s main event, which has been fueled by months of animosity, does McIntyre have anything to say about what we saw from Cody and Punk? No. Everything he had to say, he already said to each of their faces. They’re the ones following in his footsteps. He won the Royal Rumble and then actually won at WrestleMania, so he has nothing for them. But he did hear what Priest had to say. Yeah, things weren’t 100% when McIntyre was champion, they weren’t 100% right in the world. But he is sick and tired of people trying to put a negative spin on that time! They needed a hero, he stepped up!
Here’s some names: Goldberg, Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, AJ Styles. That aside, that was the most proud McIntyre was of his entire career. People have literally come up and told him he saved their lives! But tonight, Priest is not ready to be WHC. You need to be physically and mentally tough enough and Priest just isn’t. Everyone talks about their story, but there’s only room for one Chosen One, and you’re looking at him! McIntyre is ready to tear Priest apart, will he do that and have one less obstacle on his journey back to WrestleMania?
DMG CTRL regroups backstage.
They’re all excited after their ambush on the tag champs. But how is Bayley feeling? Oh, she’s fine. But she feels much better after seeing what happened out there. But then Tegan Nox & Natalya confront them! DMG CTRL thinks they can just show up on Raw and get away with that stuff? Uh, why do they care? Uh, well, why are you here? They all shout and argue, and Adam Pearce storms in to say save it for the Rumble! He asks Nox & Natty to give him a moment with DMG CTRL, and the Queen of Hart says fine, they’re tired of being disrespected anyway.
Natty & Nox leave, and Pearce then says he invited them here for two reasons: promote The Rumble, and promote the tag title match. They were NOT supposed to go into business for themselves! Uh, if he has a problem, take it up with Aldis. Oh, funny. If he can pry Aldis away from staring himself in the mirror, Pearce will do that. Well, then get used to seeing DMG CTRL here. Once Asuka & Kairi win those tag titles on Friday, they’ll be showing up on Raw a lot more, buddy. Bye~! DMG CTRL heads out, Pearce turns around and Indus Sher is there. Jinder steps forward to say they need to talk.
What are Pearce’s plans for him, The Modern Day Maharaja, the most talked-about man of 2024, the man who stepped up to The Rock, and who is responsible for damaging Seth Rollins. Right now is good, right? Pearce says okay, just meet him in his office. Veer & Sanga leave with Jinder, and Pearce says he needs a drink. Will the Raw GM be spotted on Bourbon Street after tonight?
Drew McIntyre VS Damian Priest!
Ever since the uneasy alliance back at Survivor Series, the Scottish Terminator and Senor MITB have been wanting to throw hands against each other. And now, just days before the Royal Rumble, they will have that fight! Will McIntyre’s “jealousy” cost him his momentum going into this Saturday? Or will Priest’s pride be the cause of his fall?
Raw returns and McIntyre makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally up as the two stare down. McIntyre and Priest slowly circle, tie up, and are in a deadlock. McIntyre headlocks, Priest powers up and out, but McIntyre runs him over! Fans fire up as Priest storms up and shoves McIntyre. McIntyre kicks low, headlocks, but Priest powers up and out again. They RAM shoulders, Priest rebounds and he runs McIntyre over! McIntyre gets up to shove Priest, so Priest ROCKS him! Priest stomps a mudhole in the corner, CLUBS away on McIntyre, then lets off as the ref counts. Priest whips, McIntyre rebounds to LARIAT!
Fans fire up as McIntyre fires off on Priest in a corner, then CHOPS! Priest storms around, then ROCKS McIntyre! McIntyre tumbles out of the ring, and Priest goes out around the way. Priest runs in and leaps off the step, but McIntyre catches him! McIntyre hits an OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! McIntyre then puts Priest into the ring, storms in after him, and CHOPS him against ropes! Fans “WOO~!” and McIntyre brings Priest up to ROCK! Priest ROCKS McIntyre back! Priest runs, but McIntyre clotheslines Priest up and out! McIntyre storms out after Priest but Priest mule kicks him! Priest whips, McIntyre reverses, and he clinches again!
Priest claws the eyes and RAMS McIntyre into the post! Priest drags McIntyre up, reels him in, and aims for the desk! BROEKN ARROW on the desk!! The desk doesn’t break but maybe McIntyre just did! Priest stands tall and fans fire up as Raw goes to break!
Raw returns once again and Priest fires shots on McIntyre. Priest talks trash, KICKS and KICKS and UPPERCUTS McIntyre around the ring, then KICKS him more. Priest talks more trash, but McIntyre CHOPS in return! And ROCKS! And CHOPS! McIntyre whips, Priest reverses but McIntyre KICKS the back drop away! McIntyre runs, Priest follows, and he LARIATS McIntyre down! Cover, TWO! Priest clamps onto McIntyre for a chinlock and he grinds McIntyre down. The fans rally, McIntyre fights up, and McIntyre pries the hold away. Priest lets off to CLUB McIntyre in the back!
Priest shoves McIntyre to ropes, McIntyre holds ropes and ELBOWS Priest! McIntyre runs up, DOUBLE BOOTS bring them both down! The fans fire up and McIntyre snarls as he sits up. McIntyre seethes as he runs up to LARIAT Priest! And LARIAT again! Priest gets up, McIntyre clinches him in the corner, OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Then the NECKBREAKER! Both men are down again, but McIntyre kips up! The fans fire up with McIntyre and he aims from a corner. The countdown begins, “THREE! TWO! ONE!” But Priest dodges the Claymore! Priest runs up, but McIntyre ducks the heel kick to CHOP!
McIntyre runs, Priest follows, but McIntyre SPINEBUSTERS! Jackknife bridge, TWO! McIntyre seethes again, clutching his side from the crash on the desk earlier. McIntyre drags Priest up, fireman’s carries, but Priest fires elbows. And then BELL CLAP! Priest whips McIntyre to a corner, shakes the stars out and runs in, but into a BOOT! McIntyre runs in, but into a FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Priest grows frustrated, but he runs in at the corner to- NO, McIntyre catches the jump elbow! McIntyre can’t hold on long, and Priest fires off KICK after KICK! Priest then spins, into the GLASGOW KISS HEADBUTT!
Priest goes to a corner, McIntyre runs in but Priest puts him on the apron! McIntyre goes right up top to FLYING- NO, Priest dodges! JUMP KICK! Then Priest runs up, tilt-o-whirls, but McIntyre slips free! So Priest suplexes for a BROKEN ARROW! Cover, TWO!! McIntyre survives and bails out of the ring! Priest builds speed and goes up the ropes, to ROLLING KICK!! Fans fire up as Priest then brings McIntyre up, puts him in the ring, but wait! Is that R-Truth? Fans fire up as Truth wants to give Priest his cut, but Priest shoves him down!? Truth realizes duh, put it in the briefcase! McIntyre storms up but Priest ROUNDHOUSES him from the apron!
Priest steps in, springboards, but into a kick! Underhooks and FUTURE SHOCK!! Truth asks what the password is for the briefcase’s lock! McIntyre aims from the corner, but Truth gets on the apron to talk to Priest. McIntyre’s fury turns to Truth, and he DECKS Truth! The money goes flying! Priest choke grips McIntyre, SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, but the ref is busy with Truth!! Priest would’ve won! Priest is furious and he tells Truth to get out! Truth is trying to explain but Priest TOSSES him! Fans boo, but then CLAYMORE!!! Cover, McIntyre wins!!
Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall
Truth tried to put the money in the bank for Priest, but that all backfired! McIntyre is rolling into the Royal Rumble, will he win his way back to former glory?
My Thoughts:
A great episode for Raw, especially as a go-home to the Royal Rumble. Rollins opens with his announcement, which didn’t seem as heavy as I expected going into this, because Gunther also shows up to call him out for a possible match at Mania. Rollins said “three to four months,” but that could be exaggeration for the sake of making him look John Cena levels of superhuman in a return just in time for WrestleMania. No vacating of the title, too, so the leg must not be in as bad of shape as thought. As great as Gunther VS Rollins would be, I don’t know the likelihood of that, with all the other possibilities in the Rumble match itself.
To that point, we got an awesome promo from Cody and Punk, probably a top contender for promo of the year already. Honestly, all the promos we’ve gotten out of Cody, Punk and McIntyre have been great stuff. Also, we really need Cody VS Punk before Mania, that’d be such good stuff. I’d still lean towards Punk winning the Rumble to go for the World Heavyweight Championship. And in connection to Roman VS Rock in the works, I don’t think Cody even bothers shifting over and using the Elimination Chamber to get at the Universal Championship, he really will just have to wait until some later event.
Great opening match of Imperium VS New Day, and taking the count-out draw and making it into a wild brawl with the table spot. I was hoping they’d announce a Street Fight Tag rematch, but instead, Kofi just straight up wants Gunther and the Intercontinental Championship. Pretty sure Gunther retains, but he and Kofi are going to have an awesome match. Bronson also has a good promo calling out Jey, Jey VS Bronson is going to be great stuff, and Jey beating Bronson is definitely going to set him up for a match with Gunther. Not sure what happened to Pearce’s plans for the IC title, but Ricochet getting a concussion back in December that WWE kept quiet about probably tanked a lot of that. Maybe Ricochet makes a return during the Rumble.
Really good stuff out of Ivy VS Sarah, and great stuff out of Gable VS Ivar. Ivy gets a strong win with a new finisher, though honestly a flying bulldog is a bit riskier than a submission hold. Ivar gets the win because of Sarah, but he and Gable are both going strong into the Rumble that they’re not winning anyway. Really good surprise appearance of DMG CTRL tonight. I like that Bayley interrupts Becky and Nia confronting each other only for her to take the beating so that Becky and Nia are mostly even going into the Rumble. She wants to be Women’s World Champion per the DMG CTRL golden mission, so smart to have her here tonight.
Also good involvement of DMG CTRL going after Kayden & Katana to hype up the tag title match this Friday. I can’t be sure how the go-home math works out here, given how the DMG CTRL story is still heading for Bayley being kicked out. For now, I’ll stick with what I said last Friday that Kabuki Warriors could win the belts, that puts pressure on Bayley, and then when Bayley fails, she gets kicked out. And really good tag match of Shayna & Stark beating Candice & Indi, so maybe Shayna & Stark are the ones waiting for whoever comes out of this Friday’s match for at least a match at Elimination Chamber.
And of course, great stuff in the Judgment Day story tonight. Good little promo of them arguing with the tensions getting high again, and Rhea just kinda snapping at everyone there. Finn & JD of course help Dom beat Miz, but DIY of course runs Judgment Day off. Finn & Priest VS DIY is going to be great stuff, and at this point, it could go either way because Judgment Day looks close to imploding. Truth was again brilliant, and what a brilliant way for him to cost Priest against McIntyre. That main event was awesome stuff even with Truth getting involved, Priest losing adds to both the Judgment Day story and McIntyre’s story. McIntyre is looking strong going into the Rumble, and even though Punk seems like the likely choice, we could and should get McIntyre VS Punk on the way to Mania.
My Score: 8.8/10
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IF YA SMELLALALALALALA~…!
As Cody Rhodes teams with Damian Priest & Braun Strowman against Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline, FINALLY, The Rock has come back to SmackDown!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso; Jimmy wins.
- The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & LA Knight; Miz & Melo win.
- Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae w/ Nia Jax; Tiff wins.
- Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez; No Contest.
- WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly; Pretty Deadly wins, by disqualification, and DIY retain the titles.
- Six Man Tag: Cody Rhodes, Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga; changed to…
- Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga; Priest & Braun win.
PLAY BY PLAY
Cody Rhodes talks with Nick Aldis backstage.
They shake hands, but the SmackDown General Manager tells the WWE Champion there’s been a change: Cody’s out of the Six Man Tag match. What? Why would Aldis do that? It is out of Aldis’s hands. Wait, Solo Sikoa shows up to do what he did, but they can’t do the Six Man Tag that they advertised? How is this out of Aldis’s hands? Who do they need to talk to so they can do the match? Aldis says there’s no one either of them can call, if you smell what’s cooking. This is coming from The Final Boss, and The Final Boss wants to see Cody in the ring tonight. What business could The Great One have with The American Nightmare?
Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso!
The Scottish Terminator rubbed it in Big Jim’s face that only one of them is going to Elimination Chamber in Toronto, which Big Jim was able to brush off. But McIntyre harping on how only one Uso is going to WrestleMania was a step too far. These two look to have it out, but is Jimmy just playing into McIntyre’s hands? Or will McIntyre get embarrassed by “the other Uso” this close to that big time match?
Speaking of, Jimmy has a message for Drew as he heads to gorilla. “Everybody know you’re going to Elimination Chamber, right? But Big Jimmy got a question for the Big Easy: Will Drew go onto the Elimination Chamber and win that? Will Drew go onto WrestleMania and win that? Ey, Drew, I think we got an answer for you, Uce. The answer is…” “NO YEET!” Jimmy makes his entrance, the bell rings, and the fans rally behind Jimmy. Jimmy and Drew jaw, and then Drew raises his hands, to say UP YOURS! But Jimmy ROCKS and CHOPS away! Drew puts Jimmy in a corner, Jimmy dodges to CHOP!
Jimmy climbs and he rains down fists! The fans count, Drew dumps Jimmy tot eh apron at 5, but Jimmy GAMANGIRIS! Jimmy goes up, CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Jimmy hurries to CHOP, then he whips. Drew reverses to send Jimmy to the corner. Jimmy BOOTS back, goes up, and leaps, but into a clinch! OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders to a corner, Drew runs up to SPLASH and OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! Jimmy flounders again, the ref has Drew hold on, and Jimmy bails out. Drew storms out to get Jimmy and he whips Jimmy HARD into barrier! The fans boo but Drew looms over Jimmy.
The ring count starts, Drew mockingly calls him “Jey,” then puts Jimmy in the ring. Drew says NO MANIA for Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, ROCKS him, then runs up, only for Jimmy to put him on the apron! Drew blocks a superkick, but not the DRAGON WHIP! Drew drops, Jimmy DIVES! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! Jimmy grins, goes back to the apron, and then aims. But Drew stops the Penalty Kick to THROW Jimmy down! Drew then has Jimmy in the Reverse Alabama Lift! REVERSE ALABAMA SLAM onto the steel steps! Drew stands on the desk to say “NO YEET!” while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Drew revels in the heat from New Orleans, then he leaves Jimmy behind. The ref checks Jimmy, he’s able to continue, so a ring count starts. Drew paces while Jimmy stirs. Jimmy drags himself up using the desk, then lunges in at 9! Drew is annoyed but he rains down fists! Drew stomps Jimmy, then eggs him on. Jimmy rises as the fans rally, but Drew is right on him in the corner. Drew winds up, but Jimmy counter punches! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And whips, only for Drew to reverses. Jimmy goes up, but Drew KICKS him out of the air! Drew then hauls Jimmy up, snap suplex! Cover, TWO!
Drew says okay, Big Jim. He clamps onto Jimmy with a top wristlock and grinds the arm. Jimmy fights up, fireman’s carries, but Drew elbows free. Drew bumps Jimmy off buckles, then hauls him up to the top rope! Drew CLUBS Jimmy on the back, climbs up, then CLUBS Jimmy more. Jimmy fires elbows and Drew drops back. But Drew runs up to CLUB Jimmy again! SmackDown returns to single picture as Drew CLUBS away on Jimmy again! Jimmy keeps taunting “Jey,” then drags him up. Jimmy fights the back suplex! The fans rally, Jimmy fires hands and a HEADBUTT! Jimmy SMACKS Drew off the post!
Jimmy rises to USO IN THE WIND! Down goes Drew and the fans fire up! A standing count starts while both men stir on the mat. They both stand at 5, and Drew swings! Jimmy counter punches, then fires more shots! Mule kick, UPPERCUT, but then Jimmy dodges Drew! SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! Drew is tougher than that, but Jimmy hurries to a corner. Jimmy aims as Drew goes to the other corner, “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs, but Drew FLYING HEADBUTTS! The Glasgow Kiss stuns Jimmy, and Drew hits a SPINEBUSTER! Jackknife bridge, TWO! Jimmy shows his own toughness, and the fans rally behind him.
Drew paces, then he stalks Jimmy. Drew stands Jimmy up, reels him in, but Jimmy fights the underhooks! Jimmy wrenches, UPPERCUTS, but Drew ROCKS Jimmy back! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, Drew HAYMAKERS! Drew whips, Jimmy reverses and Drew ends up on the apron! Drew ROCKS Jimmy first, then climbs the corner! FLYING- SUPERKICK! Jimmy runs to SPEAR! Cover, TWO!! Drew survives, Jimmy’s spear doesn’t hit quite like The Tribal Chief’s. Jimmy goes to the corner, climbs up, and the fans rally up. USO- NO, Jimmy rolls through as Drew moves! Drew dodges a lariat to NECKBREAKER!
Both men are down, the fans rally, and Drew kips up! Drew scowls as he aims at Jimmy. “THREE! TWO! ONE!” CLAY- SUPERKICK!! Jimmy hits first! GLASGOW KISS returns! Drew reels Jimmy in, “This is your WrestleMania! This is as close as you get!” Drew shouts Jimmy is nothing, then ROCKS him with forearm after forearm! GLAWSGO KISS! Another Reverse Alabama, but Jimmy victory rolls it! JIMMY WINS!!!
Winner: Jimmy Uso, by pinfall
Drew is furious, but his own ego caught him there! But then Drew CLOBBERS Jimmy! The fans boo Drew being a sore loser, but he puts Jimmy back in the ring! Drew rains down fists, then he DRIBBLES Jimmy off the mat! The ref reprimands, the fans boo, but Drew says that was Jimmy’s Mania Moment! Drew will win the Chamber, he will go to Mania, and he will win there! Jimmy means NOTHING to Drew! Drew puts Jimmy up against the post, then takes aim! The fans boo, but refs and producers rush out here! They swarm Drew to keep him from going after Jimmy again. Drew says fine, fine, then takes his leave.
Producers help Jimmy to his feet, but then Drew BLASTS through the refs! CLAYMORE for Jimmy!! The Scottish Terminator hits his target, then laughs as he actually leaves. Will McIntyre make this his Road to WrestleMania?
A car pulls into the parking lot.
And out steps Solo Sikoa. Solo heads inside, and he finds Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga waiting. Solo tells them that last week with Tama, that was an accident. Jacob says yeah, it’s all good, Uce. But keep it 100: If it wasn’t an accident, Solo wouldn’t be standing here right now. Well, good! Glad to see we’re all on the same page. Solo says he will be in the corner during the match for Jacob & Tama. Uh, no, Solo, no disrespect, but Jacob & Tama have been running things on SmackDown these past couple weeks. So tonight, it’s Jacob & Solo running the play? Yadada mean? Yeah, of course. And that right there, Jacob, is exactly why Solo loves him.
Solo says he’ll be back, he has to talk with Nick Aldis. Solo heads out, but will he really just step right back into place from before he lost the ula fala?
Carmelo Hayes is backstage.
R-Truth calls out to Melo, and says for the first time ever, Truth VS Melo! What’s Truth talking about? Duh, they have a match. No, Truth, Melo knows. But they had a match last week. Truth says he has never met Melo in his life, but they have a tag match tonight. What? No, they don’t. Who even made this match? Him. Truth, they are not going through this H1M who’s on first thing again. Melo is H1M. No, him made the match. The Miz!? Miz says he’s H1M. So now there’s two of you? No no no! Melo is H1M, this is The Miz! Yeah, #MeloDon’tMiz! NO! That’s not a thing! Tonight, they are. Who’s Truth’s partner?
Truth says he’s got a guy. A Louisiana legend! In fact, he just got here, so Truth’s gotta go. Laters. Miz says he has been workshopping this, and the fans love it. Think about it: Melo Don’t Miz! Melo Don’t Miz! And we are…! Melo shakes his head. Truth steps in and says Miz just wants Melo to say, “Awesome.” Miz offers a fist bump, Melo says no. Will Melo wish he had missed tonight’s show? Or will Miz actually help H1M get another win?
Zelina Vega speaks.
“My whole life, people have taken one look at me, and they try to define me. My size has never stopped me before. It never stopped me from becoming tag team champion. Or my personal favorite, the history-making first-time-ever Queen of the Ring. That’s me. Make no mistake about it, I’ve never had it easy. I had to scratch and claw to get anything around here. But this is a fresh start. Because I have something to prove. And my dreams are a lot bigger than your measuring stick. It ain’t over until Zelina Vega says it’s over.”
The Miz & Carmelo Hayes VS R-Truth & ???
Miz makes his entrance but Melo kinda steps all over it. So he already missed his cue… But who did Truth find to team with him in the Big Easy? We’ll see, after the break.
SmackDown returns and Truth makes his entrance. “What’s up?” Well, more like who is his partner? He’ll tell us! His tag team partner is a local legend, born and bred right here in New Orleans! Ladies and gentlemen, welcome Louisiana Knight! Wait, he means L A Knight! Yes, Louisiana abbreviated is LA, but that’s not… Oh, Truth… Truth gives Knight a Po’ Boy and some Mardi Gras beads, so Knight embraces it. The teams sort out, and Truth calls out him! Does he mean Miz or Melo? Well, Melo says he is H1M, so that’s who starts. The fans cheer on Knight while Truth and Melo tie up. Melo KNEES low, whips, but Truth reverses.
Melo springboards, FADEAWAY JUMPER! Melo makes his free throw, but Truth drop toeholds! Truth headlocks, Melo powers up and out but Truth whips! Melo turns hip toss into lateral press, TWO! Truth has a ghost pin, TWO! Melo trips to cover, ONE! Truth trips to cover, ONE! Melo runs up, Truth does the splits, and then hits a BIG hip toss! The fans fire up, Truth counts, Melo gets up at TWO, but Truth was just goofing. The ref explains to Truth that he is the ref, not Truth! Melo is annoyed, he runs up on Truth, but Truth wrenches him around! Melo pulls hair but Knight tags in. The fans fire up as Knight fires hands!
Knight ROCKS Melo, whips Melo, but Melo reverses! SWINGING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Knight drags Melo up to tag Truth back in, and Truth ROCKS Melo! Melo staggers, but he refuses to tag! Truth arm-drags Melo, then grinds the arm. Melo insists he’s got this, then arm-drags free. Truth staggers up, he and Melo bump heads! Truth staggers around more, and he tags Miz?! Truth forgot The Awesome Truth isn’t a thing anymore! Again! Melo BLASTS Truth off the apron, the fans boo, but Miz tags himself in! Melo is annoyed, but Miz goes to fetch Truth while SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns again, and Melo has Truth. Truth ROCKS Melo, but Melo holds onto the wristlock! Truth reaches for Knight, Knight reaches for Truth, but Melo holds on. Truth takes a swing, but into an O’Conner Roll! TWO and Melo BLASTS Knight! Truth rolls Melo up, TWO! Melo kicks low, calls his shot, but Truth suplexes for a STUNNER! The fans fire up while both men are down! Truth and Melo crawl, hot tags to Miz and Knight! The fans fire up as Knight rallies on Miz! “YEAH! YEAH!” Knight whips, Miz reverses, but Knight lEAPING LARIATS! Knight TOSSES Melo in for good measure!
Knight stomps a mudhole into Melo, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” LARIAT for Miz! KNEE for Melo! Knight scoops and POWERSLAMS Miz! Knight keeps running, JUMP ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Knight stays on Miz as he brings Miz up. Knight ROCKS Miz, then ROCKS him again! Knight whips, Miz grabs the ropes. Miz KICKS, then takes a swing, but into a back suplex! Miz lands out, tag to Melo! Miz ELBOWS Knight, but Knight scoops! Miz tilt-o-whirls through, Melo SUPERKICKS Knight down! cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Melo says he’s got this! Melo waits on Knight, then leaps, but NO 48!
Knight kicks low, but NO B F T! Tag to Truth! Knight ELBOWS Melo, Truth runs in! CENA SHOULDER TACKLES! Then the SPIN OUT BOMB! Truth says it’s time! “YOU CANT SEE ME~!” truth runs for the FIVE KNCUKLE SHUFFLE! Truth then fireman’s carries, but Melo slips free! Melo shoves, Truth dodges, and Truth hits the LIE DETECTOR! Truth then gets Melo in the S T R-TRUTH! But Miz CLOBBERS Truth! Knight ROCKS Miz, then LARIATS him up and out! Knight then goes out to THROW Miz into barriers! The fans fire up again, but NAKAMURA ATTACKS KNIGHT!
The fans boo, but the sinister samurai then POSTS Knight!! Nakamura slithers away while Melo keeps the ref’s attention! Truth sees Knight is down, Melo runs up, but Truth dodges! Miz tags in, full nelson, and a FIRST 48 FINALE COMBO?!? Cover, Miz & Melo win!!
Winners: The Miz & Carmelo Hayes, by pinfall
Well, what do you know? Nakamura aside, Miz and Melo made it work! Okay, they’re both trying to hog the spotlight, but is there a future for Melo Don’t Miz? Will Knight only have more of a reason to take that title off Nakamura now?
Charlotte Flair speaks.
“The GOAT… doesn’t have to call themselves The GOAT. Now, I have crafted a legacy that no one, I mean no one, can touch. And I’m back.” The Women’s Royal Rumble Winner chose Tiffany Stratton, but will The Queen take back her throne? Or will WWE always be on #TiffyTime? Speaking of…
Tiffany Stratton VS Candice LeRae!
The WWE Women’s Champion may have gotten past Nia Jax, but now she knows Charlotte Flair is waiting for her at WrestleMania, and is going to be teaming with Trish Stratus in Toronto! Will she be in Tiffy Top Shape for that Tiffy Trishy dream match? Or will the Poison Pixie be quite the problem all on her own?
Before the match, Tiff grabs a mic while the fans cheer. Tiffy says, “I know, I know. You know it, you know it, and you know it. Ever since I won this title, everybody’s just been so obsessed with me. And last week, I had Nia Jax beat, until Candice LeRae decided to interfere and help her little meal ticket. And at Elimination Chamber, Trish Stratus and I make sure the Unstoppable Force comes to a definitive end!” The fans cheer that, but Tiff says enough about them. Let’s talk Charlotte Flair. The fans boo that name, but Tiff says Charlotte took her sweet old time, grabbed a chair, grabbed a mic, and she looked down on Tiff.
Charlotte chose Tiff as her WrestleMania opponent. In that moment, Tiff’s dream came true! And as she lied down there and looked up at Charlotte, she realized the rumors are true: No one loves to kick a girl when she’s down quite like Charlotte Flair. So at WrestleMania, Tiff isn’t coming for Charlotte’s legacy; that’s all Charlotte’s. Tiff is coming for the spot Charlotte desires the most: The number one spot as the top girl in the WWE! But here comes Nia & Candice to interrupt. Nia has a mic to tell Tiffy, “I Have to say, this is really cute. Like, it’s really cute that you actually think you were gonna beat me last week.”
Doesn’t Candice think that is cute? Candice says yes, it is so~ cute. And Tiff wouldn’t even be standing there if not for little Trish Stratus~. Exactly! And it’s even cuter that Tiff is out here talking about Charlotte when she wont’ even see WrestleMania! Because after Nia & Candide destroy Tiff at Elimination Chamber, Nia is coming back for her WWE Women’s Championship. Nia & Candice step up to the ring, and Nia says Tiff won’t even see the Grandest Stage of Them All. Tiff tells Nia to just give it up. This title isn’t even hers anymore. And once Tiff beats Candice tonight, Nia won’t have anyone to do her dirty work anymore!
Candice tells Tiffy that while they’re meant have a match right now, she and Nia are feeling impatient. Nia says they should just get rid of Tiff right now! But the ref steps in and says not gonna happen! Tiff VS Candice will, after the break.
SmackDown returns [Technical difficulties suck] TWO! Candice is frustrated but this is why Tiff’s a champ. The fans rally, but Candice stomps Tiff! Candice scowls at the fans, stalks Tiff, then brings her up. Tiff fires body shots, then she rolls Candice up! TWO, and Candice CLOBBERS Tiff! Cover, TWO, into a ghost pin! TWO! Candice escapes to hit a CODE BREAKER! Both women are down, but Candice scowls again as she crawls over to Tiff. Candice rains down fists, Nia tells fans to shut up, and Candice steps on Tiff’s face. Candice huffs ‘n’ puffs, pushes Tiff around, then scuffs her. Tiff rolls Candice up again, TWO! Candice DECKS Tiff! Cover, TWO!
Charlotte is stoic on commentary as Candice drags Tiff up and puts her in a corner. Candice fires hands, then backs off. Candice runs up to ROCK Tiff again! Candice then runs, but Tiff dodges! SmackDown returns to single picture, and Tiff rallies with LARIAT after LARIAT! The fans fire up, Tiff handsprings, BACK ELBOW! Tiff then reels Candice in for a SKY HIGH! High stack, TWO! The fans rally for Tiff, Nia coaches Candice, but Charlotte still seems nonplussed. Tiff and Candice rise, and Candice runs up. Candice puts Tiff on the apron, but Tiff ROCKS her! Tiff bumps Candice off buckles, then goes up, but Candice ROCKS her back!
Candice climbs up, and she fires hands on Tiff! Tiff fights the suplex! Tiff DECKS Candice, then adjusts position, to SANTON- FLOP! Candice ghost pins, TWO!! Tiff escapes, but Candice hits the step-up SENTON! And then a LIONSAUL FLOP! Tiff hurries to fireman’s carry, ROLLING SENTON! And then PRETTIEST MOON- NO, Nia drags Candice out of the ring! The fans boo, Nia tells them to shut up, but Tiff is on the apron! Nia swings, Tiff cartwheels over, and then she DROPKICKS Nia! Tiff Alabama Lifts Candice, to ALABAMA SLAM her into barriers! Tiff stares down Charlotte, tells her just wait for Mania, then she puts Candice in the ring.
Tiff goes to the corner, PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Cover, Tiff wins!
Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall
Charlotte gives moderate applause, but Nia CLOBBERS Tiff from behind! The fans boo, but Nia just drags Tiff to a corner. Nia goes up, but wait! Trish is here!! The fans fire up for the legend as she rushes into the ring! Trish avoids a haymaker to CHICK KICK! Then THESZ PRESS for Candice! And then a SPINEBUSTER! Trish helps Tiff to her feet, but Nia grabs them both! Trish fires fast hands on Nia! Candice CHOP BLOCKS Trish! Tiff is still dazed, Nia HEADBUTTS her back down! Nia & Candice mug Trish, and then Nia HEADBUTTS Trish! Trish & Tiff are side by side, and Nia drags them into the drop zone! A-NIA-LATOR!!
The fans boo but there’s nothing can be done! Nia grins as she helps Candice away, will these two trash Trish & Tiff in Toronto? Charlotte steps into the ring, stands over Tiff, and points to the WrestleMania sign. Will The Irresistible Force & Poison Pixie unwittingly do the dirty work of The Queen of Flair?
Cody talks with Damian Priest backstage.
Priest asks why Cody’s boy, The Rock, is here tonight. Cody says given the time of year, his guess is as good as anyone’s. But tonight will surely be eventful. Cody congratulates Priest on entering the Elimination Chamber. Priest says what’s wild is, last year, they both walked out as champions. What sucks is that this year, only one of them can. Now, Priest is man enough and he respects Cody to say that after Chamber, he’s coming for that title. Cody says he wouldn’t have it any other way. Cody heads out, but what business does The Rock have tonight?
Braun Strowman steps in, and he tells Priest that congrats on winning, and good luck in the Chamber. But let’s be honest, Braun had Jacob dead to rights last week. If not for Solo Sikoa, things would look a lot different next week. Priest chuckles and says take it easy, he’s sounding like Drew with the excuses. But it is what it is, Priest just beat Braun to the punch. But that was last week. Tonight, Solo and Jacob, two of the baddest men in the business. Priest & Braun handling business? Oh, they’re handling business. The only business Braun cares about is getting his hands on those two. Priest says Braun definitely will.
Braun heads out, will the Monster of All Monsters and the Archer of Infamy make sure Solo & Jacob #GetTheseHands? Or will the rogues run roughshod all over SmackDown once again?
Backstage interview with Naomi & Bianca Belair.
Byron Saxton is with the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions and brings up last week’s SmackDown, the security footage led us to believe Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez were the ones behind Jade Cargill’s attack. Now, hold on, Saxton. They don’t think, Naomi knows they were. Fair enough. But this Monday, they can get their revenge when they defend the tag titles against Liv & Raquel. How ready are they for this match? Bianca says so ready! They have been waiting for months for an update. Jade has been recovering, she hasn’t been able to call or text, so the GlowEST took matters into their own hands to get revenge.
Bianca & Naomi will handle Liv & Raquel, then move on to Elimination Chamber, where one of them is gonna win to face Rhea at WrestleMania. Not only will you #FeelTheGlowEST on Monday, but Liv feels it tonight! #Let’sGLOW! The champs head out, but will they clear their Road to WrestleMania of any other distractions?
Alexa Bliss speaks.
“When I was away, there was a lot of… change that happened in me. But when I look around, I see this place is still the same. The names and faces may be different, but the desperation and insecurity remains the same. You’ll see Toronto when I turn the Elimination Chamber into something of a playground of my own. I know the Chamber. I love the Chamber. I’ve won the Chamber. And for the other five women, it’s gonna be a Hell like they’ve never experienced before. Need I remind you, this is my division, and I am in charge.” Bliss smiles and says, “See you soon.” The film comes off the reel, but will things get twisted in Toronto?
Naomi w/ Bianca Belair VS Liv Morgan w/ Raquel Rodriguez!
The Big Easy is all about having fun, and they’re fired up for Naomi’s entrance. But wait! Liv & Raquel don’t wait, they attack Bianca & Naomi while the lights are still down! They mug Naomi, but Bianca drags Liv out of the ring! Then Bianca storms in to fire off on Raquel! The fans fire up, but Liv returns to CHOP BLOCK Bianca! Raquel hauls Bianca up for a TEJANA BOMB!! Naomi runs up, fires more hands, but Liv brings Naomi around. Naomi fires hands on her, but Raquel throws her down! Liv runs up, OBLIVION!
Liv & Raquel stand tall, the refs rush out here, but clearly the singles match isn’t happening. Will we be getting something even meaner and nastier between these four on Monday?
The Rock arrives!
His truck pulls into the parking lot, but we’ll see him in the ring, after the break!
SmackDown returns and…
Aldis is chewing out Liv & Raquel for the attack. He doesn’t know what they get away with on Raw, but they can’t pull that crap here. Now get the hell out of his building. Liv & Raquel just laugh that off, but then Chelsea Green & Piper Niven walk in. Chelsea says have no fear, Chelsea & Piper are here to sub in for Bianca and Naomi at Elimination Chamber. Aldis sighs, and says they’re not missing the Chamber. What? But Chelsea had an outfit picked out! This is a travesty to not have the greatest Canadian export since maple syrup on a Canadian PLE! Does he know who she is? The first-ever, longest reigning, tallest, shortest, prettiest, richest, tannest, sparkliest, oldest, youngest Women’s US Champion! Piper asks what this is aboot, eh?
Aldis says this is them testing his patience. They need to pack their gear and whatever else they want, because they’ll be in action next week on SmackDown in Toronto. And oh, it’ll be a good one. Wait, they need more details! At least an e-calendar notification? Aldis is leaving Chelsea in the dark on what’s coming, will she absolutely hate it?
The Rock heads to the ring!
Wait, what is this New Orleans related remix? The Final Boss steps out on stage, he shows those goosebumps, then continues down the ramp, shaking hands with fans. The Rock hits his signature pose on the corner, but then takes the long way around to pick up a fan’s phone for them before going back into the ring. The fans all cheer for “ROCKY! ROCKY!” and he grabs himself a mic. He waits as the fans continue to chant his name, and then he says, “Ahh, you feel it, don’t you? You feel it. The Rock has got chills up and down his body because you know, on a Friday night, for the Final Boss to get inside his bird and fly all the way here, you know that I’m dropping some ish on you tonight!”
The fans fire up and The Rock smiles. Rock says, “Let’s get this show on the road.” The fans anticipate what’s coming but he says hold on, he’ll do it. “FINALLY! The Rock has come back…” “TO NEW ORLEANS~!” Rock smiles, and he adds, FINALLY, WrestleMania is coming back to New Orleans!! The fans are thunderous to hear that! WrestleMania 30, WrestleMania 34, and now WrestleMania 42!? Yes, next year, 2026, LIVE from the Superdome! One of the greatest cities on Earth in New Orleans, Louisiana! The pyro goes off to commemorate the occasion, and the logo is already on the tron! Rock smiles at that, then he smiles at the WrestleMania 41 Vegas logo.
The fans are losing their minds, as we now know April 11th and 12th, 2026, the Big Easy has the Grandest Stage of Them All. Rock says you damn right holy ish! Oh when the saints go marching in…! Oh how I’d love… Wait, no, this ain’t singalong with The Final Boss! Sit there, shut up, and let The Final Boss sing the song! The fans are torn, but Rock says he sings! Oh how I’d love, to be in that number~! Oh when the saints go marching in~! Okay, that’s good enough. You got him, that was a great duet. The Rock is singing with the largest collection of STD’d trailer trash he has ever seen! The fans can’t believe Rock would do that to them!
Rock says now, dropping this news wasn’t the only gift he was going to drop on us. The Final Boss came here to call somebody out. The Rock will call out a man who he respects, who he admires, and who we all admire. That man is our WWE Champion, the one and only, Cody Rhodes. The fans cheer as The American Nightmare makes his entrance! They sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” and we get Cody’s pyro before he goes to the ring. Cody gets his second “WHOA~ OH~!” and round of pyro, then he steps inside to join The Rock. The fans cheer Cody on, so he holds up the title and the fans cheer even more.
Cody grabs a mic, but Rock says, “That feels good, doesn’t it? I mean, that’s gotta feel amazing, right? They love you, man.” Cody tells NOLA, “I love you, too.” Rock says this is crazy. Pretty much no one knows this, but since after WrestleMania last year, they’ve actually become good friends. No, it’s true, they have. Last time they were together was the Raw Netflix debut. Rock gave Cody his flowers, told Cody he has carried the company like the incredible champion that he is, so thank you, Cody. Rock meant it, and that night, they went to the back, drank tequila for two hours and had a great ol’ time.
They chopped it up, had a blast, but Rock wants to call Cody out here for something important. Here’s the thing… The fans get a bit rowdy as they wait, and Rock says Cody is a great champion. A great WWE Champion. Cody knows that. Again, they’ve become good friends, so over the months, they’ve texted. Even their moms became good friends! Look! Mama Johnson & Mama Rhodes together after WrestleMania 40! It is a pleasure becoming Cody’s friend. But Rock wanted this face to face to tell him a few things. One: Cody has been a great champion, but he needs to understand. Yes, The Rock, The Final Boss, is on the Board of TKO. And TKO owns WWE.
The Rock is the Director of the Board of TKO. Don’t boo that! The Rock’s good friend, Ari Emanuel, who owns everything Endeavor, The Rock joked with Ari, “Can you believe that you own The WWE?” Ari says he doesn’t own the WWE, The Rock does. Rock said no, no, he doesn’t know if he owns the WWE. But The Rock knows he is the most powerful… Cody, you are a great champion. But Rock wants Cody to be something more. Rock wants Cody to be something more than just our champion. Rock wants Cody to be his champion. The fans don’t like where that’s going.
Cody says he did not expect them to become friends, nor their moms to become friends, nor the tequila. Cody didn’t have that on his bingo card. But becoming The Rock’s champion? The Rock of all people should know, Cody is the people’s champion. The fans cheer Cody more, and Rock says yes! Cody is their champion! Of course! The Rock is also The People’s Champion, he loves that about Cody. This is their universe, they were both born into this business. But Rock means something even bigger than just this. Rock knows Cody’s goal is to bring as much joy and happiness to everyone around the world, as many as possible.
The fans cheer, and Rock says that’s Cody. Cody is that guy, and everyone knows it. Cody is on social media, Instagram, millions of followers. Millions, and millions! The Rock has half a BILLION. That’s not a flex. But The Rock is the most followed American man in the world, that’s what he wants for Cody. Rock wants Cody to be even higher. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, he will open doors to possibilities Cody never even imagined. If Cody becomes The Rock’s Champion, every dream he has ever had can come true. Every dream of Brandi’s, of their daughter’s. Think about how Rock brought them to the premiere of Moana 2, in Hawaii.
Thank you, by the way, for making that cross a BILLION dollars, fans, Rock loves you. Rock has met the Rhodes family, they’re amazing. But imagine it: Cody’s daughter’s children, their dreams, long after Rock and Cody are gone, all those dreams can come true. Rock just needs Cody to be his champion. The fans say don’t do it! Rock tells Cody to just think about it, though. Rock is a very lucky man, he has it all. Cody also has it all. They’re very fortunate. They’re Mama’s Boys, they’re Girl Dads, they’re lucky men. Fans say don’t do it, Rock tells them to shut up or he’ll slap the syphilis off their face! Rock is trying to have a moment here, shut your mouths!
The one thing that Rock has never had, that he wants more than anything, is a brother. And that is what Cody can be. Last year, WrestleMania, Rock’s goal was to face his cousin, Roman Reigns, for the title. Cody knows, the fans know. Rock talked with his friend, HHH. He talked with Nick Khan, who is his friend. They are also Cody’s friends. Rock knew it wasn’t in the plans, but they talked about moving Cody aside to make what was best for business: Rock VS Roman, WrestleMania 40! What’d Cody do? Cody pitched a b*tch fit! Cody told The Rock he ain’t doing it, and he stood up to The Rock. And y’know what else? Cody SLAPPED Rock!
No one does that and gets away with it. But that is why Cody is special. That is why Cody should be Rock’s Champion. And that is why Rock will take Cody from where he is to a level so far above. Rock will make sure every dream, every desire, for generations to come, it all comes true. Rock’s dad, Cody’s dad, Soul Man & American Dream, they are looking down right now. They were friends, Cody and Rock are friends, Cody should be Rock’s Champion. He doesn’t need to answer Rock tonight. He can think about it, talk with his wife and daughter, as will The Rock. Then Cody can think about it. Meet Rock in Toronto on March 1st to give him the answer.
Fans still say don’t do it, but Rock says it is okay. Before he leaves, this has been an amazing night, this is a hot crowd, thank you all very much. But before he leaves, Rock wants us to know this: The one thing Rock wants more than anything in this world… is that. Wait, the title? Cody’s title? The fans’ title? This is all this is about? No no no no! Brother… Rock doesn’t want the title. He wants Cody’s soul. The fans duel, “NO! NO! NO!” “SELL YOUR SOUL!” Rock pats Cody on the cheek and says see you in Toronto. The Rock leaves, giving Cody a lot to think about. Rock does give one last glance back at Cody, then smirks.
What will The American Nightmare choose: His integrity? Or his aspirations?
WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Pretty Deadly!
Did Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano got these titles thanks to Kit Wilson & Elton Prince? #YESBOY! Did they survive a couple title defenses thanks to Kit & Elton? #YESBOY! But when Pretty Deadly needed DIY, was DIY there for them? #NOBOY! So now, Kit & Elton are looking to give Ciampa & Gargano their comeuppance! Will we finally get another #SidePlateCheck? Or will Ciampa & Gargano remember for themselves, that if you wanna be champions, you gotta do it yourself?
But as DIY make their entrance, they have mics, and Johnny Wrestling tells NOLA, “Give it up one time for your TWO-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions…! The BTTITW (Best Tag Team In The World), D I Y~!” The fans boo instead. Ciampa says there is no denying that tonight has been electrifying. Gargano says this is a hot crowd. But please, if we could be somber for a second. Guys, this is serious. Two weeks ago, Pretty Deadly embarrassed DIY, and now reluctantly, DIY will return that favor by crushing their hopes and dreams of ever becoming WWE Tag Team Champions. So please, let us all rise to our feet… Yes, you in the LSU jersey, stand up.
Ciampa thanks Wade Barrett, and asks for everyone to remove their hands and bow their heads for a moment of silence for Pretty Deadly, beginning… now. The fans boo instead! And then Pretty Deadly make their entrance! The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who really needed who in this broken relationship!
But then DIY jumps Pretty Deadly! The ref reprimands, DIY whip but Pretty Deadly reverses! DOUBLE DORPKICKS! Then DOUBLE LARIATS send DIY up and out! The disco ball hasn’t even stopped spinning! The fans cheer while DIY throw a fit! They regroup, cool down, and go back to the ring. Gargano distracts Elton, Ciampa CLOBBERS him, and the bell rings. But Elton fires hands on Ciampa! Elton whips, Ciampa reverses and he pulls hair! The ref reprimands, Ciampa throws Elton to the apron and KNEES him down! Tag to Gargano and he aims, SUPERKICK! Elton goes down in a heap, DIY cheers themselves on, and SmackDown goes to break!
SmackDown returns, Gargano tags in, and DIY hits the BACK SUPLEX BOMBO COMBO! Cover, TWO! Elton stays in this but Gargano tags Ciampa back in. Gargano sends Ciampa in, but Elton ELBOWS him away! Gargano runs in, but Elton puts him on the apron! Gargano goes after Kit, but Kit blocks the kick! Kit BOOTS Gargano down, but then Ciampa BOOTS Kit! Elton dodges Ciampa to come back, DOUBLE CROSSBODIES collide! Elton and Ciampa are down, sputtering and writhing, and the fans rally up. Elton crawls, Kit rises, hot tags to Kit and Gargano! Kit rallies on DIY with big forearms! Kit whips, Gargano reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS!
Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa in a corner, then LARIATS! Kit runs to LARIAT Gargano! Kit pushes Gargano down, kicks him and hits a TWIST- NO, Gargano slips through to ROCK Kit! Kit yoyos, DOUBLE LARIATS! The fans fire up, Kit tags Elton! They get Gargano up, but Gargano BOOTS Elton! Gargano ELBOWS Kit away, then runs up on Elton! Elton dodges, then gives Kit the boost, DRY MARTI-KNEES! Cover, TWO!! Gargano survives but Ciampa is in! Elton fireman’s carries Ciampa, but Ciampa slips free! Ciampa whips, Elton reverses, Kit UPPERCUTS Ciampa! Elton shows off his strength with the GOTCH LIFT PLEX!
Tag to Kit, but IN COME THE PROFITS! Ford SHOVES Kit down, Dawkins mugs him!!
Winners: Pretty Deadly, by disqualification; DIY retain the titles
Not again! Just like they did Motor City Machine Guns, The Profits make sure no one else takes these titles off DIY! URENAGE from Ford to Elton! Dawkins keeps hammering away on Kit, and then Ford POSTS Elton! Dawkins fireman’s carries Kit, to POST him, too! Looking like the All Mighty with that one! Gargano fires forearms in return, but ends up int he POUNCE GERMAN SUPLEX! Then Ciampa runs up into a FLAPJACK! Ford goes up top, then flies in FROM THE HEAVENS!! Direct hit on Ciampa! But wait! MCMG rushes out here, wanting their payback! The Profits brawl with MCMG, but Ford TOSSES Shelley to the apron!
Ford runs up, Shelley goes to kick, but Ford blocks it! Ford LARIATS Shelley down, Dawkins hits Sabin with THE BIG ENDING! The fans are torn as Dawkins whips Sabin, Profits get him for the REVELATION!! And if there’s been any revelation, it is that Ford & Dawkins don’t just want the smoke, they want to burn down the tag division to get it! Will nothing stop them once they’re back in action?
Kevin Owens speaks.
“You got what you wanted, huh? You got your match. You couldn’t, uh… You couldn’t just take the punishment that you deserved, that I’d already given you, and let it go. No, you… You wanted me and you to go again. You wanted to fight me, you want to hurt me, you want to end my career, which would hurt my family, by the way. Which is truly despicable. But what about your family, Sami? Huh? Have you thought of them? What about your family, huh?” Kevin reveals he is right outside the Zayn home! Kevin peers inside to watch Sami, his wife, and his son!
Kevin asks Sami via the video if Sami knows what he’s about to put them through, when they have to watch Kevin end Sami’s career. And what happens then, eh? When Sami can’t provide for them, and everything they have, like this nice house, the shelter, the security, the peace they have, when it’s all gone? And why? What for? Because Sami’s too proud? Because Sami’s selfish? Sami IS selfish. Because Sami is making Kevin do this to Sami’s family. Kevin will never forgive Sami for that. He’ll see Sami in Toronto. “But remember… You asked for this. It’s all your fault.” As if Kevin’s delusions aren’t already grand, will he continue to blame everyone else but himself?
Damian Priest & Braun Strowman VS Solo Sikoa & Jacob Fatu w/ Tama Tonga!
Elimination Chamber is on the horizon, and the Road to WrestleMania makes for strange bedfellows. Priest, Braun and Jacob were fighting each other just last week, but Solo’s return really threw things for a loop. Can Priest & Braun give Solo and the Samoan Werewolf their punishment? Or will everything (not) be fine in Solo’s Bloodline?
SmackDown returns as #OneBigSOB makes his entrance. As Solo, Jacob & Tama head to gorilla, we hear from Solo. “Tonight, we handle business. And it starts with Braun Strowman & Damian-” Jacob interrupts with, “Man, c’mon, DP! C’mon, Braun! I thought we did this! So tonight, we about to even up the score. If you ain’t know, I’m all gas, no brakes with it! See, since we touched the scene, we been dropping bodies like bread crumbs! Yadada mean!? FA-TUUU~! Hit my music!” The rogues enter to Jacob’s theme, is this alone proof he’s the new alpha? Or will the match be the last nail in that coffin?
The teams sort out, but Jacob stares down both Priest and Braun. NOLA seems to acknowledge Jacob, but Solo convinces him to stand down. Solo starts against Priest, the bell rings, and the two tie up. They go around, Priest powers Solo back, but Solo powers Priest back. They break, stare down, and Solo talks some trash. Solo shoves Priest, Priest shoves back. They circle again, tie up, and Priest puts Solo in a corner. The ref counts, Priest lets off at 4, but Solo stomps Priest’s foot! Solo throws hands, then a HEADBUTT! Priest staggers, but then he ROCKS Solo! And ROCKS him! And HEADBUTTS! That was a mistake!
Solo shakes his head to HEADBUTT Priest! Priest goes to a corner, Solo throws haymakers and body shots on repeat! The ref counts, Solo lets off and says see? Solo and Jacob as one! But Priest THROWS Solo to the corner to fire off haymakers of his own! Priest ROCKS Solo, the fans fire up, and Priest whips., Solo reverses to UPPERCUT! Solo talks smack but Priest ROCKS him again! Tag to Braun and the fans fire up! Braun stares Jacob down, tells him to shove it, then runs up to SPLASH Solo! Braun stares Jacob down again, goes back for Solo, and hits another LARIAT! Braun scoops, Solo slips free, but Braun runs up!
Solo ELBOWS Braun away, tags to Jacob, and Jacob runs in, but Braun dodges! Braun CROSSBODIES! Jacob is right up, but Braun BOOTS him right back down! Solo runs in but Braun TOSSES him! Priest hurries after Solo, Braun CLOBBERS Jacob! LEAPING LARIAT for Solo! Braun then gets on the track, STROWMAN EXPRESS SMACKS a chair out of Tama’s hand! The Good Bad Guy thought he was being sneaky! But then Jacob CROSSBODIES Braun into the timekeeper’s aera! The fans go wild as Jacob rises up, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Jacob hauls Braun up, drags him around the way, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him over to SMACK off the desk! Braun staggers, but he ROCKS Jacob in return! And THROWS Jacob into steel steps! Braun drags Jacob up, puts him in the ring, but Jacob SUPERKICKS Braun! Braun falls into the corner, Jacob HIP ATTACKS! Jacob’s all geeked up, then he tags in Solo. Solo soaks up some heat while Jacob HIP ATTACKS Braun again! Solo puts Braun on ropes to CHOKE him! The ref counts, Solo stops at 4, but Jacob gets a HEADBUTT in! Braun flounders, Solo taunts him and eggs him on, but Braun CHOPS him!
Solo HEADBUTTS Braun right down! Solo rains down fists, then lets off so he can put Braun on the ropes. Solo CHOKES Braun again, stops as the ref counts 4, and Jacob gets another cheap shot in! Solo tags Jacob in, then he HEADBUTTS Braun again and again! Jacob runs to BODY CHECK Braun! Jacob fires up, Braun flounders to ropes, but Jacob rains down fists! Tag to Solo, he soaks up heat from NOLA, then he stomps away on Braun! The ref counts, Solo lets off, then he keeps Braun from Priest by anchoring a leg. Tag to Jacob and Jacob climbs up, FROG SPLASH! Jacob roars while Braun writhes!
Jacob looms over Braun but he glares at Priest. Priest gets heated, but Jacob fires hands on Braun as SmackDown returns to single picture. Braun stands, but Jacob HEADBUTTS him again! Jacob runs for another BODY CHECK! And then a SENTON! Cover, TWO! Braun stays in this and he goes to a corner. Jacob snarls, tags Solo in, and the fans boo. Solo runs corner to corner to HIP ATTACK Braun! Solo grins as he copies Jacob’s geeking out. Tag back to Jacob and fans cheer! Jacob aims, runs, and HIP ATTACKS! Jacob keeps going, but Braun BOOTS from below!! The fans fire up while both men stagger to their feet.
Braun SPINEBUSTERS Jacob! Both monsters are down, the fans rally up, and they crawl, hot tags to Solo and Priest! Priest fires hands on Solo, then whips. Solo reverses but Priest SHOUDLER TACKLES Solo! Priest runs to BACK ELBOW! Jacob is back, but Priest dodges to WHEEL KICK! Priest then waits on Solo, but Solo catches Priest! Priest elbows free, but Solo SUPERKICKS! But Priest JUMPING ROUNDHOUSES! Solo comes back, Priest ROCKS him first! Solo swings, but into the FLATLINER! Cover, TWO! Solo survives but Priest puts him in a corner. Priest whips corner to corner, then runs, only for Solo to put him on th eapron!
Solo takes as swing, Priest dodges and ROUNDHOUSES! Priest then knuckle locks with Solo, goes up top, and he tightrope walks for some OLD SCHOOL! The fans fire up and Priest powers up the arm! Priest runs, but Solo ducks the Comebacker! Priest fights the fireman’s carry to BELL CLAP, ROUNDHOUSE, and then he reels Solo in! But Tama is on the apron! Priest DECKS Tama, but Jacob HOTSHOTS Priest! Solo hits the URENAGE! Cover, TWO!! Priest survives and Solo is stunned! Solo snarls, looks to his taped-up thumb, then he drags Priest up. The fans boo but Solo taunts the fans now. SAMOAN- NO! Priest grabs Solo!
But Jacob runs in! Priest ROCKS Jacob, ELBOWS Solo, then he dodges, so Jacob’s SUPERKICK hits Solo! An accident just like last week’s shot to Tama, but Jacob doesn’t seem as upset by it. Priest TOSSES Jacob, then CLOBBERS Solo! STROWMAN EXPRESS CLOBBERS Jacob & Tama!! Priest brings down the straps, the fans are thunderous, and Priest grabs Solo by the neck! SOUTH OF HEAVEN!! Cover, Priest & Braun win!
Winners: Damian Priest & Braun Strowman, by pinfall
Just as Solo thought it’d be like before, he and Jacob were not on the same page! Priest is rolling towards Elimination Chamber, will this be just what he needs to go back to WrestleMania?
My Thoughts:
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
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Coverage
Andrew’s TNA LIVE! iMPACT! Results & Match Ratings: 2.20.2025
So the first live episode got fairly positive praise from everyone; will this continue the trend?
Filming at Full Sail seems to have set the stage nicely this week! Going into a Live episode we got Moose and The Hardy Boyz on NXT, as well as Jordynne Grace’s involvement with Steph and Giulia giving a little shine to TNA happenings since she’s newly WWE.
This episode should be interesting, we finally see Lei Ying Lee (fka Xia Li) back in action, Rascalz take on Tyson and Tyriek, Tessa should be seeing some action as well…so generally interesting happenings for the second Live iMPACT! of 2025. Let’s see how this one goes down!
No matter where @ManceWarner and @stephdelander go, @TheSamiCallihan WILL FIND THEM!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/mXz9U7m9PL
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Ratings:
- Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin: Rascalz win via Meteora/Swanton Combo – ***
- Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary: Lei wins via Thunderstruck – **
- NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC: Dango wins via The System help – ** 3/4
- Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore: Masha wins via Requiem – N/A
- Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons: Elijah wins via Tombstone Piledriver – *** 1/4
Results:
Oh yeah, and another Hendry concert is…cut off by a commercial, LOLTNA. First Hendry is cut off by AXSTV’s new Anime Hour bumper, and now Primo and Epico are showing up in TNA. I definitely didn’t have this on my BINGO card. The crowd starts chanting “Where’s Carlito”, which they do acknowledge and play off of well. Oh they’re using their shoot names of Orlando and Eddie now…but before they attack the lights go out and we get another guitar strum! ELIAH/ELIAS/EZEKIEL/EBENERZER/EMERY/EL VAGABUNDO – shows up to back up Hendry. Okay I can apologize away the redundant concert since it played into an Elijah debut. The crowd is immediately popping and chanting “This is Awesome” 10 minutes into the show.
Tyson & Tyriek w/Wes Lee vs The Rascalz w/Ace Austin
Treehouse bros take it to the bigger men quickly, a few fast dives, a little MCMG style tandem strikes, Tyson fires and tries to take them out but they Low Bridge him. Tyriek comes in and they try similar things but Tyriek manhandles them both and throws them out of the ring, Trey is the first one back up and Tyriek and Tyson take his damn head off with his Corkscrew Running Euro Upper. Trey finally manages to flip out of the manhandle, tags in Wentz and Wentz goes for the hot and spicy cleaning house spot. Corner to Corner Knee Lifts for both big men, a Rolling Snapmare, into a Superkick for Tyson and Standing Shoot Star on Tyriek but only for two because Wes feints like he’s going to interfere.
Tyson and Tyriek pull off a tandem Assisted Backdrop Driver, but Wentz breaks it up, Tyson gets knocked out, Wentz hits the Tornillo, Wes tries to interfere again after Trey gets perched on the corner buckle but Ace runs around and trips Wes at the last second causing him to faceplant on the apron, Trey hits the Meteora, Wentz hits a Swanton from the other side of the ring and Trey gets the pinfall victory.
It was fast paced, all gas no brakes, but it didn’t overstay its welcome, so it was pretty fun all things considered.
After the match Wes grabs a mic, complains a little but challenges them to a 6 man match as Sacrifice. So we’re THAT’S where we’re getting the expected 3v3.
Fir$t Cla$$ comes out with an entourage of hot chicks and probably influencers or something. The “First Class Penthouse” , Gabby AF, Mafiosa Valentina, and Carolina are apparently known in their own way. Gabby I know was the awful one who did something for Impact a last year and sucked, but she’s part of the Busted Open Network I believe so that’s why she’s around. Two of them look like Noelle Foley and Frank the Clown…oh they actually are. Look at that. I do love KC Navarro as the Hype Man, they have this whole set up of AJ being mad that they haven’t gotten more Tag Title shots, so TNA placated him with his own Piper’s Pit and he’s *pregnant pause* totally happy with that. He says he loved Piper and hated Hogan before it was cool.
This is actually quality content and AJ is cutting a nice promo in this segment. They introduce their first guest, the greatest performer in TNA history, many whole say he’s Phenomenal with a whole lot of style….it’s A-J-Francis.
.@AJFrancis410 is GOING OFF!
Watch #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/NY8HgI02kY pic.twitter.com/kGehtp9iTE
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) February 21, 2025
Lei Ying Lee vs Rosemary
Things were slow until Rosemary took her into a corner quickly, hit the Upside Down, and we get a lot of Lei trying to avoid Rosemary’s offense. Rosemary goes for a Spear in the corner and Lei forward rolls, starts connecting with a bunch of right hands, backs Rosemary into the corner, goes for 10 Count Punches, pulls her out, Airplane Spin TKO for only a two count. Rosemary tries As Above So Below, Lei shrugs it off, Rosemary tries to go after Lei anyway and eats Thunderstruck! Lei Ying Lee wins!
After the match Rosemary catches Lei on the ramp and hits the Green mist in the eyes. Match was far too short and so many of Lei’s set up moves look better than her finish. We’ve seen Kofi Kingston do it for years so it’s not bad, just the current Knockouts Division are awful and don’t take the move well.
Eric Young and the jabronis come out, EY cuts a very basic power crazed psycho kind of promo, gets the “What” chants from the crowds. EY is trying to recruit Maclin even though Maclin made his line in the sand last week. EY tries to spin it as maybe he took out Josh FOR Maclin instead of in spite of his trust. This really doesn’t seem interesting at all, but that’s probably because I hate the two Jabronis EY is with.
NoDQ Match: Leon Slater vs JDC
I really don’t have any interest in Slater. He’s got no personality beyond “flippy guy with a British accent”.
Dango immediately powders, grabs a chair and goes to swing on him but misses. So Leon is making JDC look dumb by dodging the post chop, using the chair to shield himself from a punch by JDC, and then clapping Dango’s fingers between the chair. So typical System match, look inept for the first few minutes, then take advantage of something to take over. Oh look, Leon takes too long setting up the table, Dango gets in a few pot shots, tries to whip him into the table but Leon leaps over it, and then leaps back over to clobber Dango. Dango is still trying to recover so Leon hits his over the corner post con hilo, and the crowd appreciates it but I’m not interested. Leon panders to the crowd after the big spot and then eats an X-Plex into the chair from Dango.
JDC throws Leon back in, goes for a pinfall that’s only a two and we cut to a commercial. Coming out of the commercial JDC is in control with a Kendo Stick until he isn’t, Leon counters and takes the keno stick, brutalizes Dango a few times then comes off the ropes with the kendo shot for 2. Leon goes for another table, and again, at least the crowd is receptive to this match. Leon sets it up, looks for something off the apron but Dango stops him first until he eats a dropkick to fall onto the table, Leon hits the Swanton 450 through the table on the outside. Does it look cool? Sure. Do I care about dumbass moves? Nope.
Oh thankfully the rest of The System comes out to stop the pinfall, Shield Bomb Leon through the first table, and roll him back in for Dango to win.
The Hardy Boyz come out to try and make the save, but the numbers are against them, so Oba Femi’s music hits! Oba cleans house but doesn’t get his hands on Moose, so they’re at least building the eventual clash between Moose and Oba.
The crowd starts a “Tessa, we comin for you” chant before she even starts talking. Tessa is actually playing off the crowd well, Santino’s music hits and Tessa thinks he’ll help her out with the crowd and Santino calls bullshit basically. Santino says if Tessa doesn’t wrestle next week, she’s fired and Masha’s music hits. Masha decides to step in for Tessa’s enhancement talent match.
Masha Slamovich vs Mila Moore
Jobber tries to attack Masha early but Masha stops her, rocks her and Requiem ends the match.
Masha stares down Tessa, and then Cora Jade attacks from behind and hits Jaded.
Ryan Nemeth comes out to his Abyss music remix. What will Mokuba say today? “MYYYY BIIIGG BBRROOOOTTHHHEEEEER” he repeats at least 4 times and it’s hilariously cringe. He announces that Nic will return at Sacrifice, he literally just came out to give a PSA.
Elijah & Joe Hendry vs The Colons
Hendry starts with Eddie, after a brief tie up it seems like Hendry reads the room and points at Elijah and the crowd wants him in. So Joe tags in Elijah, a little back and forth, Shoulder Tackle from Elijah, Rope Walk with Elijah lays out Eddie and a tag to Joe allows for a quick tandem knockdown, but Eddie powders as the Walking and Talking Duo hold the ring going into the final commercial break.
We come back and Hendry is bouncing Orlando off the ropes as he return a strike, but Orlando is obviously losing, eats a Euro Upper, and then gets walked around in the Stalling Suplex for posterity. Eddie tries a sneak attack but gets caught and Sack of Shit, into Kip Up, turn and then Orlando with the ambush! A few quick short cuts and an Irish Whip/Dropkick combo gives the Colons a near fall. Hendry does get locomotion variation cradles, but eats a Dropkick to stop the attempt at momentum. Orlando stays on Joe, but Joe finally starts to fire up as the crowd starts to get behind him. Euro Uppers make some space, but a Snapmare says no.
Eddie gets tagged in and a quick Leg Sweep into a Front Chancery keeps Eddie in control. As Joe tries to get back up, Eddie turns it into a Guillotine, but finally the Suplex counter connects for Hendry! Simultaneous tags! Elijah bulls over Orlando, catches a Leap Frogging Orlando with the Manhattan Drop as Orlando retreats to a corner, Stinger Splash into Spinebuster for two. Elijah tries to keep up the attacks but Orlando finds a few ways to make space, launches himself from the middle rope and eats the Jumping Knee! Eddie breaks up the pinfall, Hendry takes Eddie out and Elijah hits the Tombstone Piledriver for the win!
Overall Score: 6/10
Well there were more live hiccups than the first episode, and this felt both more epic and less epic at the same time. Elijah and the Colons debuting was a nice way to kick things off, Oba Femi showing up for the save was fantastic. There were a few decent matches, but also a lot of really short and rushed matches. Tessa played off the crowd well, but Masha really is useless on the mic. Lei Ying Lee needs to framed stronger, her matches have done nothing to show off her ability. It just proves that the Knockouts don’t know how to sell a kick to the head because they all take it in the shoulder and fall in corny ways.
Viva La Sam could be something fun if the next 3 weeks are just hand cam footage of him being like “I’m Sami Callihan and I’m gonna kick Mance Warner’s ass”, Elegance Clique getting the rematch with a stipulation is nice to see and while I like Fir$t Cla$$, that segment went a little long for a cornball swerve payoff. It’s one thing to placate the Influencer squad especially when we’ve seen Logan Paul and Ishowspeed do so well in WWE…but these are like Z Tier Influencers that no one cares about. These kind of dorks stream on Kick because they aren’t relevant enough for Twitch, not because they chose Kick over it.
So yeah, the low lights were pretty low, and the highs were a little fleeting, but at least they were pretty fun. Not a bad show, just clunky with noticeable issues and Masha shouldn’t be allowed to speak English anymore. She’s such a charisma vacuum when she’s not rambling in Russian.
About Chairshot Radio Network
Launched in 2017, the Chairshot Radio Network presents you with the best in sports, entertainment, and sports entertainment. Wrestling and wrestling crossover podcasts + the most interesting content + the most engaging hosts = the most entertaining podcasts you’ll find!
MONDAY - Bandwagon Nerds (entertainment & popular culture)
TUESDAY - Musical Chairs (music) / Hockey Talk (NHL)
WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Keeping the news ridiculous... The Oddity / Chairshot NFL (NFL)
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - The Front and Center Sports Podcast
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast & The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history)
TheChairshot.com PRESENTS...IMMEDIATE POST WWE PLE REACTIONS w/ DJ(Mindless), Tunney(DWI) & Friends
Patrick O'Dowd's 5X5
Classic POD is WAR
Chairshot Radio Network Your home for the hardest hitting podcasts... Sports, Entertainment and Sports Entertainment!
Powered by RedCircle
Let us know what you think on social media @ChairshotMedia and always remember to use the hashtag #UseYourHead!
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