Will the American Nightmare make life a nightmare for Nakamura?

The King of Strong Style has been playing mind games, but he still gives Cody Rhodes his rematch. Will Shinsuke Nakamura end Cody’s story? Or will Cody have his revenge for the red mist?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Finn Balor w/ Damian Priest VS Tommaso Ciampa w/ Johnny Gargano; Ciampa wins.
• Kofi Kingston VS Ludwig Kaiser; Double Count-Out Draw.
• WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Kayden Carter & Katana Chance VS Chelsea Green & Piper Niven; Kayden & Katana win and retain the titles.
• The Miz VS JD McDonagh w/ Dominik Mysterio; The Miz wins.
• Otis w/ The Alpha Academy VS Ivar w/ Sarah Logan; Ivar wins.
• Cody Rhodes VS Shinsuke Nakamura; upgraded to…
• Street Fight: Cody Rhodes VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Cody wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Cody Rhodes arrives backstage.

The American Nightmare is in Portland, and he’s getting ready to face the King of Strong Style in tonight’s main event!

Drew McIntyre interrupts!

He says he has something to say. “Last week’s match with Seth was all or nothing for Drew McIntyre. I didn’t want that title, I needed that title, and as you can see, I don’t have the title. I’ve been replaying the match over in my head. I remember I had the match won when I Claymore’d Seth, I pinned him, I was so overzealous, I put his foot on the rope, I cost myself the damn match.” McIntyre’s been thinking all week, and maybe Rollins is right. Maybe Sami is right. Maybe the one person holding McIntyre back is McIntyre. If that’s the case, then he needs to get right, his head screwed on right, and step away from the WWE. Fans don’t like the sound of that!

But McIntyre continues by saying he’s been playing it over. It wasn’t easy to feel this way because this is the dream, but he’s felt that way replaying the match over and over. But then it occurred to him: It wasn’t on him! He didn’t lose straight up! DAMIAN PRIEST tried to cash in during the match and cost McIntyre! “Priest, why would’ve you cashed in during the match? Why didn’t you wait until after the match was over and I was champion and I had won and I was weakened and I was an easy target?” Priest didn’t just screw himself over, he screwed McIntyre, too, ya idiot!

And between Priest, Rollins, Sami, and Jey moving to Raw with Cody’s magical political powers, CM Punk made his return to wide open arms! Actually, maybe McIntyre should revisit the leaving thing. He should leave for nine years so he’ll get a hero’s reception when he returns! Fans can chant his name during other people’s matches- WAIT! Here comes CM Punk! Portland fires up as the Best in the World heads to the ring. The fans chant for Punk as he steps in and gets his own mic. Punk says we’re in PIPER COUNTRY! Punk is a bit disappointed McIntyre didn’t have the kilt, but that’d be too easy, because then the fans would like McIntyre.

We all know Roddy Piper is a legend! And Piper was known for talking. Punk’s known for talking. Is McIntyre known for talking? The fans say nope. But since Punk’s been back, talking is all McIntyre’s done. It might be weird coming from a guy who talks a little too much, but Punk thought since he heard his name, he’d come out. And if McIntyre has something to say, say it to Punk’s face, he’ll be right over here. Punk lounges in a corner, fans chant for him, and McIntyre says okay, if the floor is his… First off, congrats, Punk. We’re going on just over a month now and Punk’s still here. Some of the guys have a bet going that Punk will crash ‘n’ burn and go away again, so he’s costing a lot of people a lot of money.

Punk says that’s clever. McIntyre says he’s probably offended Punk. Maybe Punk and Rollins have more in common than they realize. McIntyre didn’t care what Punk said outside the WWE. Punk wanted headlines, attention, he’s bitter, he wasn’t getting what he wanted. McIntyre gets that. What McIntyre cares about is what Punk does to him personally. McIntyre is one of the few guys on this roster who traveled the world with Punk. McIntyre knows the real Punk, what Punk is really like, and has had so many things happen to him caused by Punk. McIntyre could go on for… Well, they only have three hours so he’ll go with the first thing on his mind.

McIntyre brings up when Punk was champion. Punk said he was the leader. He walked into the locker room and called himself the locker room leader because a leader always has to say they’re leader. But back then, McIntyre did need a leader, someone to help him out. McIntyre was in a dark place back then. Not now, though. He’s just got obstacles in the way that he’ll kick down, because he is Drew McIntyre! But not back then. He was just a kid with personal issues and lost the person who meant the most to him in the world, his career was in a tailspin. And he could’ve used a real leader to show him the way.

But Punk saw McIntyre as a threat so that was never gonna happen! McIntyre talked with Randy Orton about it before. Orton couldn’t help, he had his own demons. But Punk’s straightedge, so he doesn’t have demons. He just IS a demon! A self-serving, narcissistic succubus! And McIntyre didn’t need anyone help him become a leader. When he got fired, he stepped up, figured it out, and is the man he is today. So after nine years, McIntyre is your leader, kid! Now McIntyre lounges on the corner! Fans cheer, and Punk smirks. Punk admits he’s called himself a lot of things in life. “Leader” was never one of them, he just led by example.

Sure, he called himself a savior. If McIntyre needs his hand held, pledge allegiance to the Straightedge Society, shave your head and clean up your act. But demons? If Punk isn’t a leader, who did McIntyre watch walk out of WWE? It was Punk! And who did Punk watch walk back in bigger, faster, stronger, won the Rumble and main-evented Royal Rumble? McIntyre followed Punk’s lead on the way out, so Punk will admit he’s following McIntyre on the way back in. Punk is just doing what McIntyre did, including winning the Rumble and main-eventing Mania. And yet McIntyre’s upset about that just like Rollins is?

As far as a demon goes, Punk isn’t a demon. When pushed, he is the Devil himself! And if McIntyre saw that side of Punk, that says more about you and where you are than him. Punk is a real nice guy, until it’s time not to be. And uh, it’s looking to be that time. Punk isn’t here to be a nice guy, or to make friends. He wants to win the Royal Rumble and main event WrestleMania. Then we’ve got ourselves a problem. Yeah, McIntyre did all that, something Punk’s never done. But that wasn’t for McIntyre. Those wins, if you remember right, was when the world shut down. Someone needed to step up.

Those wins by McIntyre were for the world! Were for this roster! Some stepped away. If Punk was still here, he would’ve stepped away, too. When the going gets tough, Punk gets going. But this time, McIntyre is entering the Rumble. And if Punk is Satan, then McIntyre will exorcise him, go BACK to the main event of Mania, and this time, he’ll win the title in front of fans, but win it for HIMSELF. Punk steps closer, and tells McIntyre, “It’s getting a little spicy in here, Drew. So I’m gonna lead by example and walk away before I knock your teeth down your throat. There’s one person that can stop me from accomplishing my goals, and it’s me. And I got outta my own way a long time ago.

“You can’t stop me from winning the Royal Rumble. Seth can’t stop me from winning the Royal Rumble. Cody can’t  stop me from winning the Royal Rumble. And Drew, leader to leader, because I’m such a nice guy, in the Royal Rumble… I’m gonna throw you out last.” Shots have been fired from both sides, but only one can be the Best in the World! What happens on this wild Road to WrestleMania?

Finn Balor w/ Damian Priest VS Tommaso Ciampa w/ Johnny Gargano!

The Prince & Punisher don’t want to give DIY their shot, so they’re pinning the blame on R-Truth for this one. Truth said DIY wants these belts, so they gotta nip it in the bud. Finn didn’t wanna do this, but he also doesn’t wanna be a scaredy cat! Will Ciampa put DIY in the title hunt? Or will Finn put his money where Truth’s mouth is?

Raw returns as  DIY heads to gorilla. Ciampa says today marks exactly 19 YEARS since his first match in this business. It is a long road for guys like him & Gargano. Heart, perseverance, they’ve got that in spades. But if you want something, you fight for it. And what they want are those Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships. Tonight, Ciampa and Finn isn’t just about can’t lose, it is must-win! You want a 2024 New Year’s Resolution? How about NEW Undisputed Tag Team Champions in DIY. DIY makes their entrance, will Ciampa make good on that mission?

The bell rings and the two circle. They feel things out, tie up, and go around. Ciampa puts Finn in a corner, Finn turns it around, and Finn lets off. To then RAM into Ciampa! And again and again and again! Finn soaks up the cheers and jeers, then ROCKS Ciampa with a right. Finn headlocks, Ciampa powers up and out, then things speed up. Ciampa CLOBBERS Finn, Finn goes to ropes, and Ciampa CHOPS! Even Gargano winces from that one. Ciampa CHOPS again, follows Finn and whips, but Finn reverses. Ciampa sunset flips but Finn rolls through to basement dropkick! Cover, TWO!

Finn keeps on Ciampa, ELBOWS Ciampa in the head, then ELBOWS him again. Finn soaks up more cheers and jeers, throws more hands, then runs, but into a THESZ PRESS! Ciampa rains down fast hands but Finn shoves him away. Finn bails out, Ciampa pursues, but Priest stands in the way! Fans boo but Priest just smirks. Ciampa slides into the ring, and he avoids Finn’s elbow drop! Ciampa RAMPS into Finn, bumps Finn off buckles, then climbs up. But Priest gets on the apron! Ciampa storms up on Priest, but Finn BLASTS him down! Ciampa hits the desk, Finn stands tall, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Ciampa throws hands with Finn! Ciampa counter punches, and CHOPS, and punches, and whips. Finn reverses, Ciampa ducks ‘n ‘dodges to LARIAT! Fans fire up as Finn goes to a corner. Ciampa runs up to clothesline! Ciampa keeps moving but Finn dodges, to ELBOW- NO, Ciampa turns things around to REVERSE DDT! Cover, TWO! Finn is still in this and Priest is relieved. Gargano coaches Ciampa and Ciampa drags Finn up. Ciampa reels Finn in, hoists him up, but Finn slips free to trip and DOUBLE STOMP! Finn aims from a corner, Ciampa goes to the other. Finn runs up, but into a JUMP KNEE!

Ciampa reels Finn back in, gets him back up, PROJECT CIAMPA!! Cover, TWO!! Finn survives the powerbomb backbreaker and Ciampa seethes. But Ciampa just aims as Finn stirs. The kneepad comes down, Finn stands, and Ciampa runs up, into a SLINGBLADE! Finn keeps moving and he SHOTGUNS Ciampa down! Finn hurries up top and Priest fires up! Finn aims, COUP DE- NO, Ciampa moves, then ghost pins! TWO!! Ciampa runs up, gets around, ripcords and ROCKS Finn with a forearm! Ciampa underhooks but Priest gets on the apron! Ciampa ROCKS Priest, but Priest stays up! SO Gargano YANKS Priest down!

Priest attacks Gargano! RAZOR’S- NO, Gargano gets free and Ciampa FLYING KNEES Priest down! Ciampa hurries into the ring but Finn KICKS the ropes! That jams Ciampa up, and Finn suplexes Ciampa! But then Gargano trips Finn!! Ciampa covers, CIAMPA WINS!!

Winner: Tommaso Ciampa, by pinfall

Judgment Day can’t believe it! DIY just beat them at their own game! But will Finn & Priest have to just beat DIY down to keep them from taking these titles?

Backstage interview with Becky Lynch.

Jessie Redmond brings up how Day One didn’t really go The Man’s way. But now that she’s had a week to process it, how is she feeling about that loss to Nia Jax? Before the match, Nia said imagine what would happen if she put her full weight behind that punch. And Becky did, she really tried to imagine. Maybe Nia would break Becky’s eye, or her nose into a million pieces, or even hospitalize her. But then Nia did put her full weight behind the punch, and yes, Becky fell, her mouth was busted up, and she lost. But after that, Becky got up, and she walked herself to the back and declared herself for the Royal Rumble.

Becky is already way ahead of the last time! And last time, Becky came back to win the Rumble to then win in the main event of WrestleMania. So either Nia is getting weaker or Becky is getting stronger. Becky didn’t end Nia like she wanted, but Nia didn’t end Becky, either. So maybe this isn’t the end between them, only the beginning. When and where will Becky get her Big Time payback on the Irresistible Force?

Kofi Kingston VS Ludwig Kaiser!

Last week, Giovanni Vinci went down hard to Kofi’s anti-air dropkick, giving Kofi & Jey a rather unsatisfying win. But will European Excellence avenge the Pride of Italy? Or will Kofi just make it two for two against Imperium?

Raw returns and Kaiser makes his entrance. The bell rings and Kaiser rushes in. Kofi gets around to waistlock but Kaiser elbows free, then LARIATS Kofi down! Kaiser rains down fists on Kofi, the fans boo, but Kaiser lets off to talk trash. Kaiser SLAPS Kofi, clamps on a chinlock and then ripcords to LARIAT! Kaiser eggs Kofi on, slaps him around, then clamps on a neck wrench. Kaiser CLUBS away on Kofi, the fans rally and Kofi gets free! Kofi fires hands, but Kaiser knees low! Kaiser CLUBS Kofi to a corner, talks trash, then CHOPS! Kaiser follows Kofi to another corner, stomps a mudhole in, but lets off as the ref counts.

Kofi CHOPS Kaiser but Kaiser CHOPS Kofi! Kofi CHOPS back, CHOPS again, then CHOPS! Kaiser CHOPS, Kofi CHOPS, repeat! The fans fire up as Kofi fires fast hands on Kaiser, and even climbs up a corner! Kofi rains down fists, but Kaiser stops him at four by tripping him up! Kofi hits buckles, but the fans rally behind him. Kaiser POSTS Kofi, has him stuck in the ropes, and then stomps a mudhole in! Kaiser lets off to run side to side, and he DROPKICKS Kofi down! Kaiser scowls while Kofi sputters, and Kaiser says Kofi took Vinci’s head, so he’ll take Kofi’s! The fans rally with “NEW! DAY ROCKS!” and Kofi fights back!

Kofi ROUNDHOUSES Kaiser, springboards and CROSSBODIES! Then Kofi rains down fists! Fans fire up with Kofi, and he aims at Kaiser. Kaiser rises, but he ducks Trouble in Paradise to whip! Kofi stops himself, then DUMPS Kaiser out! Kofi builds speed and DIVES into an UPPERCUT! Kaiser drags Kofi out to RAM him into barriers! Fans boo but Kaiser PENALTY KICKS Kofi down! Kaiser says that was for Vinci! Kaiser talks more trash, and stands tall as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Kaiser digs his boots into Kofi at the ropes. The ref counts, the fans rally for Kofi, and Kaiser stomps at 4. Then he stomps Kofi again! Kaiser stomps Kofi more and fans boo. Kaiser soaks up the heat, goes up the corner, and jumps, into BOOTS from Kofi! Fans fire up while Kaiser tumbles out! Kofi hurries to the apron, climbs the corner, and fans rally as Kofi TRUST FALLS! Direct hit and down goes Kaiser! Kofi hurries to get Kaiser up, and Kofi whips, only for Kaiser to reverse! Kofi goes up and over the steps, comes back and CLOBBERS Kaiser with flying forearms! Kofi gets Kaiser up but Kaiser POSTS Kofi!

Kaiser runs in but Kofi dodges, the uppercut hits barriers! But Kaiser keeps Kofi from getting in the ring! The count hits TEN and the bell rings!

Double Count-Out Draw

Fans boo, but then Kofi SUPERKICKS Kaiser! Kofi slides back into the ring, but learns what just happened. Another unsatisfying finish, but Kofi won’t leave it at this! Kofi DIVES to take Kaiser out! Kaiser hits the desk and Kofi fires off on Kaiser! The fans fire up but Kaiser claws at the eyes! Kaiser has Kofi on the desk, but Kofi shoves him back! Kaiser runs back in, but Kofi back drops him up and over the desk! Refs and producers hurry out, fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT!” but Kaiser CHUCKS an armchair into Kofi!! Kofi goes down in a heap and fans boo! Kaiser then shoves producers aside to drag Kofi up!

Fans boo, the refs tell Kaiser no, but Kaiser puts Kofi on the steel steps! Kaiser tells Kofi this is what he gets, and then he fires down fists! The producers try but Kaiser won’t let them stop him! Kaiser goes up the apron, but producers drag Kaiser back. Fans boo as Kaiser leaves of his own accord, only to then juke around and run in! BASEMENT DROPKICK AGAINST THE STEEL!! Fans boo and lose their minds, has Kaiser done more than just sideline Kofi?

Jackie Redmond is backstage.

She’s caught up to Ludwig Kaiser and asks him what just happened out there. A switch flipped, why did he- WHY WHAT?! What do they want from him, huh!? That wasn’t his fault, it was Kofi’s fault! He had it coming to him! Because of Kofi, Ludwig is the only one here! He is carrying the whole weight of Imperium because of Kofi Kingston! Kofi took Vinci’s head, so tonight, Kaiser took Kofi’s. The Impeccable German took the pressure of representing Imperium and used it to crush Kofi, will that pressure soon come back to crush Kaiser?

Michael Cole is in the ring.

He notes last week, this woman defeated Becky Lynch, and is now an “odds on favorite” to win the Women’s Royal Rumble. Please welcome the Irresistible Force, Nia Jax. Fans boo as Nia makes her entrance and goes to the ring. Cole says last week, Nia shocked the world when she dominated Becky to win on Raw. Nia smiles, and says, “Shocked? Why was it so shocking? I wasn’t shocked. I told you, I’m a different Nia Jax. I’m more focused. What, are you like these people here, who didn’t think I was gonna break Becky Lynch’s face, again?” Fans boo but Nia says what would be shocking is if she broke COLE’S face!

Fans boo again but Nia says she is more focused on the Rumble now. Soon, she’ll run through 29 other women, earn her main event spot at WrestleMania, and whether it is Rhea Ripley or Iyo Sky, there is not a man or woman on this roster that can stop- WAIT! Here comes Rhea! Portland fires up for the WWE Women’s World Champion as she makes her way to the ring. Rhea gets a mic and revels in the fans cheering her on. Then Rhea says these people know what’s up. And these people also know that Nia likes to talk a big game. Nia’s walking around out here, acting like she’s already won the Royal Rumble.

But remember last year? Rhea sure does. She threw Nia out! And yeah, Nia beat Becky. Quite the accomplishment. But the fact is, Nia, Becky Lynch isn’t Rhea Bloody Ripley! So until Nia actually wants to step to Rhea, stop walking around like you own the division, because you don’t! And take this as a warning: IF Nia wins the Rumble, it’s best  to keep Rhea’s name out your mouth. Nia tells Rhea that she gives rhea all the credit. Rhea might be the most dominant champion in their division’s history. But don’t forget that Nia put Rhea on her ass when Nia came back. And the only reason Nia isn’t holding the title is because Rhea is too scared to face Nia 1v1.

At the Rumble, when Nia squishes 29 other women and wins, she WILL choose Rhea. And Rhea will have no excuse and no choice but to face Nia. “See you soon, unstoppable champ.” Nia drops the mic and heads out, but will she come to regret putting her and The Eradicator on a collision course?

Backstage interview with Cody Rhodes.

Jackie is with the American Nightmare, now in gear. She notes how Nakamura is doing everything in his power to keep Cody from “finishing the story.” Is there anything Cody wants to say before tonight’s main event? Well, he’ll go with what he said last week: this chapter should already be over. But then Nakamura attacks!! They brawl like they did before the holidays, Nakamura sends Cody into a garage door but Cody sends Nakamura into a road case! Security and producers rush in! Adam Pearce shouts at them both to stop right now, this is going to wait until the main event! How explosive will it be with these two all fired up?

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

The Life of the Party took these titles off the Hot Mess & Scottish Viper, but are fighting champions, so they’re gladly giving the former champs their rematch. Will this just be a remix of the previous showdown? Or will Chelsea do what she always does and ruin the fun for everyone else?

Raw returns and KC Squared make their entrance. The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who gets to really party after tonight!

The teams sort out and we see all the other teams on Raw watching backstage. Chelsea and Kayden start, but Piper takes a swipe. Chelsea DROPKICKS Kayden then soaks up the heat. Kayden bails out, Chelsea rushes out after her, but they run around the way, back in, and Kayden springboards to DROPKICK Chelsea! Kayden runs in, blocks boots, and puts Chelsea in ropes. Kayden ROCKS Chelsea, tags Katana, and Katana DOUBLE KNEE DROPS! Cover, TWO! Katana brings Chelsea back, tags Kayden, roll-up! TWO, Chelsea ducks a buzzsaw but not the HEEL KCIK! Kayden taunts Piper, Piper runs in but Kayden drop toeholds her into ropes!

Kayden tags Katana in, gets Chelsea up, but Piper drags Kayden out of the ring! Chelsea avoids Katana’s 450 and runs up. Katana dodges, but runs into a BUCKLE SHOT! Chelsea tags Piper and Piper gets moving, she CANNONBALLS! Piper fires up, Chelsea soaks up the heat, and Piper covers, TWO! Katana survives, the division is liking what they see, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Piper taunts Kayden, only for Katana to dodge the cannonball! Piper and Katana are both down and Chelsea panics! Chelsea reaches down to tag, then she runs up on Kayden. Kayden dodges, then Katana dodges! Chelsea wants a leg but Katana boots her away !Hot tag to the Spitfire! Kayden BLASTS Pier, ROCKS Chelsea, repeat! Mule kick, SUPERKICK, cover, TWO! Kayden is frustrated but the fans rally up. Kayden runs to BOOT WASH Chelsea down! Fans fire up with Kayden and she springboards to LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Kayden drags Chelsea up to fire off in the corner.

Kayden puts Chelsea up top, then climbs up. Fans fire up, Kayden brings Chelsea up but Chelsea fights the superplex! So Katana climbs up, but Piper hurries over! Katana BOOTS Piper down, but Chelsea HEADBUTTS Kayden away! Kayden SHORYUKENS in return! Kayden climbs, has Chelsea on her shoulders, and tags in Katana! Katana goes up to SUPER DUPER STEINER!! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea survives and no one can believe it! Not even the other teams watch backstage! Katana gets a boost from Kayden, but the splash hits knees! Chelsea BOOTS Kayden, chicken wings, but Kayden powers out!

Chelsea comes back, ROUGH RYDER! Cover, TWO!! Chelsea can’t believe it, and somewhere, neither does Long Island Iced Z! Chelsea hurries to chicken wing but Kayden rolls her up! TWO, Piper tags in, and Chelsea hits a CODE BRAEKER on Kayden! Piper adds the RUNNING ELBOW DROP! Cover, Katana breaks it! The fans fire up, but then Chelsea BOOTS Katana! But Kayden SHOTGUNS Chelsea! Piper storms up on Kayden, scoops her, but Kayden slips free to SUPERKICK! Piper staggers, Kayden runs up, but Piper catches her! URENAGE! Chelsea tags back in and she tells Piper to go up!

Piper climbs, Chelsea helps her, but Katana drags Kayden. Kayden uses that to trip Chelsea! Piper doesn’t realize it, and she VADER BOMBS Chelsea!!! The fans are loving it, and then Katana springboards in to FLYING CODE BREAKER!! Kayden tags Katana back in, Katana climbs, KEG STAND DROP on Chelsea!! Cover, KC Squared wins!!

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

A bit of a mix up helped Kayden & Katana win big! But the party only starts here, who else will step up to take those titles?

BREAKING NEWS for tonight’s main event!

Given the animosity between both men, Adam Pearce has no choice but to raise the ante! It will now be a STREET FIGHT! Will either man be able to walk away from tonight now that there’s nothing to hold them back?

R-Truth speaks.

“I was born in Charlotte, North Carolina on a cold January morning. I’ll never forget. The doctor held me in his arms, and I looked him in the eyes, and I told him, ‘One day, I’m gonna be in Judgment Day.’ And wouldn’t y’know it? That dream came true. Mm-hmm.” Truth and Judgment Day have been through a lot together. Money in the Bank, the Women’s Royal Rumble, the Judgment Day: In Your House. Wait, all these images are photoshopped… “The Judgment Day is an unbreakable bond.” JD McDonagh says Truth is NOT Judgment Day. Truth says that’s just them arguing. And then Truth beat JD to “kick him out” of Judgment Day!

And now, they’re a REAL family! Rhea, Finn, Priest, Tom AND Nick Mysterio. Truth hasn’t met Nick yet but he’s still Truth’s brother. And finally, a message to every WWE superstar on behalf of the Judgment Day. “We are always here. If you wanna talk, if you need a shoulder to cry on, as we always say in the Judgment Day: Live, Laugh, Love.” They’ve never said that… What will the actual Judgment Day members have to say about this video? In fact…

Judgment Day watches the video.

JD can’t even! They don’t say any of that stuff! JD is so mad but Priest has him calm down. Truth doesn’t speak for the group. But Priest has to admit, that was some funny stuff. Rhea says enough. When are they gonna stop the joke? When the time comes, Priest will handle it. But on a more serious note, Priest & Finn have their hands full with DIY. Finn says DIY will need CPR and MRIs and EMTs after he and Priest are done with them! Priest calms Finn down but to get serious, good. Why aren’t we talking about McIntyre?! Rhea has Priest stop before he gets going. McIntyre is not their enemy.

Priest says that’s true. Because McIntyre is too much of a joke to be Priest’s enemy! But speaking of enemies, was it smart to make an enemy out of Nia? Rhea will handle Nia in time. But as for tonight, JD needs to handle The Miz. JD promises, Miz won’t know what hits him. JD & Dom head out, will the Irish Ace put the A-Lister in his place?

The Miz VS JD McDonagh w/ Dominik Mysterio!

Raw returns as JD & Dom make their entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally up. Miz and JD circle, feel things out, but Truth is here? Truth is all chummy with Dom, which upsets Dom and JD! Miz smirks while fans cheer on Truth, and Miz headlocks. JD powers out but Miz runs him over! Miz points to Truth and fans cheer. Miz points to Dom and fans boo. JD? Boos. Truth? Cheers! Miz runs, things speed up, JD hurdles but Miz turns hip toss into hip toss! JD staggers up, Miz dodges to kitchen sink knee! Miz runs, JD avoids the basement boot then bails out! Fans boo but Miz points to Truth so they cheer.

Miz raises his hands, and yes, fans cheer. Miz points at JD & Dom, the fans boo. The ref counts, JD is fuming, and Miz gets the fans to cheer him and Truth. JD rushes in, but into a CHOP! Miz KICKS JD, KICKS him again and again in the corner, then lets off as the ref counts. Miz runs corner to corner but JD avoids the double knees! Miz falls, JD storms up and KICKS! And KICKS! Fans boo as JD KICKS and KICKS! But Miz blocks a kick! Miz trips JD, then steps through to FIGURE- NO, JD boots Miz away! But Miz returns, for the A-LIST COMBINATION! Cover, TWO! Miz keeps cool as he follows JD to ropes.

Truth gets fans to join in with “WHAT’S UP?!” Miz CHOPS JD against ropes! Truth whips JD, but JD kicks Miz! JD snarls, runs up, but into a back drop! Fans fire up with Miz and Miz says, “MASSIVE! BALLS!” Miz hauls JD up but JD arm-drags free. Miz BOOTS back, but JD distracts the ref so Dom can cheap shot Miz! JD JAWBREAKERS Miz down, drops an elbow, then flexes with Dom. The fans boo then, but then cheer as Truth flexes. Judgment Day stands tall and Truth is still confused as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and JD has Miz down with a chinlock. Fans rally up, as does Truth, and Miz fights up. Dom is upset and Truth remembers he’s supposed to be Judgment Day. Miz pries the hold open, but JD hits low. Miz throws body shots, JD CLUBS Miz, then JD back suplexes. Miz lands on his feet to ELBOW JD away! Miz runs up but JD has the SLEEPER! Miz JAWBREAKERS free! Miz runs in but JD dodges! Miz hits buckles, JD trips him and slingshots to TORNILLO SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Fans rally but JD paces around. JD drags Miz up but Miz throws hands! Miz then LARIATS! But JD ENZIGURIS!

JD drags Miz back up, snap suplexes, and a cover, TWO! Fans rally, JD argues with Truth but Truth says he’s on JD’s side. Is he? JD drags Miz up, gives him kicks, and the fans chant “JD SUCKS! JD SUCKS!” Miz throws body shots, counter punches, and then fires off more shots! JD wobbles around, Miz keeps on him in a corner, and the fans fire up! The ref backs Miz off, but Miz runs in to A-LIST LARIAT! Miz pushes JD down, slides under, sunset flip, TWO! Miz kicks low, the fans fire up, and Miz KICKS! And KICKS! And KICKS! Fans chant “YES! YES! YES!” for the It Kicks, and then Miz winds up. But JD ducks the buzzsaw!

JD O’Conner Rolls Miz, TWO! JD ends up in a corner, Miz puts JD’s leg int he ropes to drop a knee on the knee! Just like the Nature Boy taught him! Miz sweeps the leg! JD tumbles, stands up, but Miz sweeps the legs again! Miz gets the legs, steps through, FIGURE FOUR! The fans “WOO~!” JD’s shoulders are down, TWO! JD scrambles, reaches out, but Miz puts more pressure on the hold! ROPEBREAK! Miz lets JD go, but has him on the apron. JD HOTSHOTS Miz down! Dom checks on JD, Truth coaches JD up, the ref tells Dom to back off. But Miz WRECKS JD and Dom with a dropkick! Miz puts JD in, clinches, SKULL CRUSHING FINALE!! Cover, Miz wins!

Winner: The Miz, by pinfall

Truth asks if Dom is okay, but no, he’s not! The Miz gets another big win on Judgment Day, and they can’t stand it! Finn, Rhea & Priest say this can’t keep happening! Rhea needs to talk with Pearce about next week. Good idea. Priest will let the boys know when they get back here. Rhea heads out, and the tag champs are in agreement that this has to end. Will the Judgment Day make Truth have to face the truth?

Seth Rollins is here!

Portland fires up as the WWE World Heavyweight Champion makes his way to the ring in a snakeskin jumpsuit. He gets the mic and revels in the singing, “OH~ OHH~ OHHH~!” Then he welcomes Portland to Monday Night Rollins! HAHAHAH, YEAH~! He is the Visionary, he is a Revolutionary, he is your WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION, Seth FREAKIN’ Rollins! And Rip City, you’ve done it again! But Portland~, we are in the homestretch now. The Royal Rumble is just weeks away, and then we are on the Road to WrestleMania! Now, Rollins’ WrestleMania track record is pretty good. Won some titles, had a little cash-in.

But there is one thing Rollins has never done to WrestleMania, an d he has never taken a world title into it. Never been the headline, the marquee, but that all changes this year! Because this is the Year of Seth Freakin’ Rollins! Rollins worked too hard for too long, and took a title that a year ago didn’t even exist, and he turned it into THE most important prize in this industry! And he did it the way he said he would: as a fighting champion! As a workhorse champion! But Portland, the work is not done. Oh no no no no. Because Rollins has one little question: Who is he going to beat at the Grandest Stage of Them All?

Fans are chanting “C M PUNK! C M PUNK!” but Rollins smirks. In that guy’s dreams, maybe. Because that Raw roster is so loaded, that- Jinder Mahal makes his entrance. The Modern Day Maharaja makes his way to a ring, the fans booing. Jinder gets a mic while Rollins is completely confused. Fans boo more as Jinder begins, “Of course you’re out here singing your own praises. Ladies and gentlemen, the Visionary, the Revolutionary. How is it that last week, within five minutes, I was more of a revolutionary than you’ve been in the past five years you’ve been calling yourself that?” Fans boo and Rollins is even more confused.

Jinder says Rollins’ only purpose is to entertain these clowns and further push the agenda of degeneracy! You think he’s lying? Just take a look around! Take a look at your city! Degeneracy on every street corner! Is he lying? And the World Heavyweight Champion, the man with the platform, instills no change and speaks no truth. Rollins sings, dances, dresses up, and yet brings no value. He throws childish temper tantrums when things don’t go his way after the show. But Jinder digresses. Jinder says Rollins prides himself as a workhorse, someone who provides opportunities, except to a tenured, decorated and deserving former champion like Jinder.

Rollins has the audacity to overlook the Modern Day Maharaja?! To overlook Jinder Mahal?! Let him remind Rollins that Jinder beat Randy Orton, the greatest of all time, and with ease! Yet Rollins disrespects and overlooks Jinder! This will not be tolerated! And Rollins, Jinder’s known you a long time. He’s seen through the facade, the charade, but for the first time, Rollins needs to look Jinder in his eyes. For the first time in a long time, Jinder has Rollins’ attention. Fans boo, and Rollins sighs. Rollins tells Jinder, “I may say something that might surprise you right now, but… You’re right. We have been overlooking you! We have been overlooking Jinder Mahal.”

But uh, that wasn’t by accident. This has been on purpose. Yeah. They’ve been trying to forget Jinder, but then Jinder shows up last week and The Rock puts Jinder’s nuts in a vice. But here’s the thing, Jinder. Rollins admits, he admires the fact that after The Rock fried Jinder last week, Jinder stood back up! Rollins respects that! What Rollins doesn’t respect is Jinder coming out here, ruining the party and getting in Rollins’ face! Rollins says yes, Jinder has his attention. Jinder’s sick of being overlooked? He wants to do something the fans will remember him forever for? Then take a swing! Take a swing, Jinder! C’mon! Take a swing! Rollins is here, so swing!!

Jinder stays put and shakes his head. Rollins chuckles and says that’s what he thought. Same ol’ Jinder. But then Jidner blindsides Rollins when he turns around! Fans boo, Jinder throws off his jacket, but Rollins fires off in return! Jinder pushes Rollins back to LARIAT him down! Jinder then drags Rollins up but Rollins fights free! SUPERKICK! And then CURB- NO, Jinder gets away! Fans fire up as Rollins eggs Jinder on! Will Jinder get his title fight with Rollins one way or another? And will he come to regret it?

Otis w/ The Alpha Academy VS Ivar w/ Sarah Logan!

Akira Tozawa & Maxxine Dupri are with the tree trunk as he’s about to run into the Viking Raider! Will either man be standing after this? Will the ring be standing after this?

Raw returns as Ivar makes his entrance, “Valhalla” by his side. The bell rings and the two circle. They tie up, are in a deadlock, and then break. The fans chant for “MEAT! MEAT! MEAT!” Ivar kicks low, whips, but Otis ducks ‘n’ dodges and DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Neither man falls, but then Otis WRECKER ELBOWS Ivar down! Fans fire up with Otis as he swivels, but then he runs into a SEATED SENTON! Ivar snarls as he stalks Otis, CLUBS away at the ropes, but lets off to stomp Otis to a corner. Ivar UPPERCUTS Otis, ELBOWS him, then CLUBS him! Otis huffs and puffs as he takes those shots!

The fans fire up as Otis fires body shots and haymakers in return! Ivar knees low, runs, but Otis catches the springboard?! WORLD’S STRONGEST SLAM!! Cover, TWO!! Ivar survives but Maxxine says that was magnificent! Otis drags Ivar to a drop zone, goes up, but Ivar CLUBS him! And CLUBS and CLUBS and CLUBS! Ivar then gets up and under Otis, to SITOUT POWERBOMB him! Cover, TWO!! Otis survives and the fans fire up! Ivar waits on Otis to rise up, and he HEEL- NO, Otis ducks the kick to DISCUS LARIAT! And off comes the shirt! Fans fire up as Otis pumps and thrusts! CATERPILLAR ELBOW!! Cover, TWO!!

Ivar survives again and Sarah is frustrated. Fans fire up as Maxxine & Tozawa coach Otis on. Ivar rises, Otis choke grips, but Ivar breaks fere! Ivar ELBOWS Otis, Otis CLUBS Ivar! Ivar BOOTS Otis but Otis runs in! Ivar cartwheels and HEEL KICKS! Ivar puts Otis in a drop zone, then he goes up! Fans fire up while the Academy panics! DOOMSAULT!! Cover, Ivar wins!!

Winner: Ivar, by pinfall

The War Beard continues on his path of destruction! Tozawa is right in his face, though! So Ivar SHOVES him down! Tozawa bails out and Maxxine calms him down. Ivar says Tozawa thinks he’s big, but Ivar IS big! Will Ivar have big things in store for him this year?

Backsatge interview with Jey Uso.

Jackie is with Jey and he’s fired up. Happy New Year, 2024 is a different vibe. This is the first time Jey is going into a year all alone. No Jimmy, no Bloodline, does Jey have any resolutions? YEET! Ya boi is gonna get his first singles title this year, Year of the New Yeet! YEETMASTER! Jey’s all fired up, but Bronson Reed walks over. Bronson says “Jimmy Uso’s little brother” isn’t the only one with plans to be a champion in 2024. So his advice, Uce, is to not get in Bronson’s way. Bronson heads out, but will Jey show the Colossal Aussie who’s really main event material?

Street Fight: Cody Rhodes VS Shinsuke Nakamura!

The first match between these two was won by the American Nightmare, only because the King of Strong Style purposefully disqualified himself by using the red mist! And now, after all the chaos, they battle again without any restrictions! Will Nakamura make good on his promise to end Cody’s story in pain and humiliation? Or will Cody no longer be stuck on this chapter when he writes the finish?

Raw returns and Cody makes his entrance. The fans sing along, “WHOA~ OH~!” and the weight belt goes to the young fan in the front row, then he steps into the ring, “WHOA~ OH~!” The bell rings and the fans rally up behind Cody. Nakamura stays back as Cody eggs him on. Nakamura talks some trash, steps to Cody, then shoves him. Cody kicks low and drops for the RHODES UPPERCUT! Cody fires off haymakers, CLUBS Nakamura then whips. Nakamura holds ropes, bails out, and fans boo, But Cody builds speed to baseball slide dropkick! Cody fires off on Nakamura on the outside and they brawl to the stage!

Cody and Nakamura head around one way, Cody brings Nakamura back the other way and sends him into railing! Then Cody brings Nakamura around, to send him into barriers! Cody pulls hair but Nakamura throws body shots. Cody CLUBS Nakamura, CLUBS him to the ring, but Nakamura throws knees! Nakamura CLUBS Cody, stalks him around the way but Cody kicks low! Cody CLUBS Nakamura, CHOPS him, then ELBOWS him on the neck! Cody sends Nakamura into the desk! Cody SPLASHES Nakamura with water! Then SMACKS him off the steps! Cody puts Nakamura in the ring but fans want tables.

Cody climbs up, Nakamura bails out. Cody hops down, hurries over, then goes out, but Nakamura SMACKS Cody with a broom! Nakamura rides the broom like a witch to then go looking for more things. Nakamura has a kendo stick! And he SMACKS Cody with it! And SMACKS him again! Nakamura is trained in martial arts, he definitely knows how to use that! Nakamura SMACKS Cody, JAMS him with it, then paces while Cody bails out. The King of Strong Style is in control while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Nakamura throws knees into Cody, to then snapmare and- NO, Cody avoids the knee drop! Nakamura clutches his leg, and Cody grabs the kendo stick! Cody SMACKS Nakamura in return! Cody may not be as well-trained but he knows how to swing! Nakamura dodges a shot, though, knees low, and he hoists Cody onto the top rope. Nakamura fires body shots, then goes corner to corner for the TOP SHELF KNEE! Cover, TWO! Nakamura is annoyed but he throws knees into Cody’s head and shoulders! Nakamura then paces around, and KICKS Cody in the chest! Fans boo but Nakamura kicks Cody around, then KICKS again!

Nakamura slaps Cody around, and grins as the fans boo. Nakamura BOOTS Cody down! Nakamura paces while Cody sputters, and Nakamura clamps on a chinlock. Cody fights up, the fans rally, and Cody JAWBREAKERS free! Nakamura staggers, Cody runs up, but Nakamura BOOTS him! Nakamura AX KICKS Cody down! Nakamura grabs a leg, drags Cody around, but Cody fights the turnover! Nakamura still powers Cody around, but Cody fights back! Cody kicks free with his free leg, but Nakamura KICKS him again! Cody sputters, Nakamura KICKS him again! And then Nakamura KICK- NO, Cody blocks! But Nakamura ENZIGURIS free!

Nakamura runs, but Cody follows and CLOBBERS him! Cody baits Nakamura in, goes up and over then SPIN POWERSLAMS! The fans fire up with Cody and he stands back up. Cody waits on Nakamura, springboards, DISASTER KICK! Cover, TWO! Cody punches his own cheek to fire himself back up and the fans are with him. Cody hears the chants and he goes looking under the ring. Yes, he finds as TABLE! The fans are thunderous as Cody slides it into the ring, but Nakamura runs up to CRACK Cody with nunchaku! Nakamura shows off a bit, then kicks Cody. And clotheslines Cody into the timekeeper’s area!

Nakamura swings the nunchaku around, storms up, and CLUBS Cody with them! Then Nakamura goes up the barriers, to aim and FLYING- BODY SHOT from Cody! Cody grits his teeth, the fans fire up and rally behind him, and Cody tells the crew to move aside. Cody grabs a steel chair! Cody stalks Nakamura, Nakamura springs right up, but Cody ducks! RED MIST hits the timekeeper guy!! Poor, uh, Berkley! Cody chases Nakamura off, asks for help on behalf of Berkley, but Nakamura SMACKS Cody with the chair! No mercy from Nakamura as he SMACKS Cody again! Cody scrambles into the ring as Raw goes to break.

Raw returns once again and Nakamura still hits Cody with the chair! And again, and again! Then Nakamura wedges the chair into the corner, and he stalks Cody. Nakamura drags Cody up to CLUB him, then brings him around. Nakamura whips but Cody reverses, Nakamura CRASHES into chair!! The fans are thunderous as Cody shakes the ropes! Cody storms up on Nakamura to ROACK with a haymaker! Nakamura hits back, but so does Cody! Fans rally behind Cody with every shot, but Nakamura gets the edge. Cody dodges the strike fest to JAB, JAB, JAB, then flip, flop and- NO, Nakamura kicks low!

Nakamura aims but Cody ducks the roundhouse to BIONIC ELBOW! Cody winds up again, another BIONIC ELBOW! Nakamura falls over and the fans fire up again. Cody sees the table is still waiting, so he hurries to set it up! Cody drags Nakamura up, but Nakamura HEADBUTTS Cody! Nakamura puts Cody on the table, climbs up, and SUPER KNEE DROPS through the table! Cover, TWO!! Cody survives and Nakamura is furious! Nakamura kicks at the table for failing him, then goes out to look for something more. Nakamura grins as he brings out his own TABLE! The fans fire up for the furniture as Nakamura puts it in the ring.

Nakamura sets this table up but against the corner. Nakamura drags Cody up into a SLEEPER! Cody flails, but Nakamura hits the INVERTED- NO, Cody lands on his feet out of the suplex! But Nakamura RAMS him into the chair corner! Nakamura PELES Cody, then runs, and blocks boots! Nakamura puts Cody in ropes, ENZIGURIS and runs, SLIDING GERMAN! Cody writhes, Nakamura goes up, FLYING KNEE! Cover, TWO! Cody hangs tough but Nakamura isn’t done. Nakamura stalks Cody, pulls the suit open, and he aims! KINSHA- SUPERKICK! Cody then reels Nakamura in, to PEDIGREE!! Cover, TWO!!!

Cody is too tired to be upset that Nakamura survives. Both men stir, Cody pounds the mat and the fans rally up again! Cody stands, storms over to Nakamura and brings him up. Cody runs, springboards, CODY CUTTER!! Cover, TWO!!! Nakamura spasms a bit but he’s still in this match! Cody hears the fans rallying as hard as they can and he stands up again. Cody roars and the fans fire up again! Cody tells Nakamura to get up, then he dragon sleepers! But Nakamura drops to victory roll, TWO! Cody ducks one kick but not the WHEEL KICK! Nakamura aims from a corner, runs in, but Cody sends him through the table!!

The fans are thunderous as Cody dragon sleepers, to CROSS RHODES!!! Cover, Cody wins!!

Winner: Cody Rhodes, by pinfall

And that makes it 2-0! Will this exclamation point be the conclusion to Cody’s chapter with Nakamura? Will the American Nightmare become just the fourth person to win back-to-back Royal Rumble matches? Or is there another plot twist in Cody’s story just waiting to catch him off guard?

My Thoughts:

A great Raw, though with some rather odd moves. So Jinder Mahal shows up last week to get roasted, and now he’s gonna go after Rollins for what I presume is the World Heavyweight Championship at the Rumble? Well, Jinder’s not winning that, or else nothing else in the story makes sense. McIntyre and Punk had a great opening promo segment, and we definitely need to see them interact during the Rumble match. In fact, I think we need them 1v1 before WrestleMania, like at Elimination Chamber or something. That way, that story is wrapped up before Rollins faces whoever it is at WrestleMania. Although, the trend is a world title Triple Threat every 10th Mania…

What I wanna know is, what happened to making Indus Sher a thing? Did they feel it wasn’t the right time? Will Indus Sher be booked more after Rumble and on the way to Elimination Chamber? Though I guess that goes for a lot of tag teams at this point with Judgment Day being the only tag champions right now. Great women’s tag title match, and perhaps one of the better ones. But seeing that Raw has six teams while SmackDown has maybe three, feels like a team from Raw should be moved over to even things out.

Really good match from Kofi and Ludwig, and the count-out draw was a good move given they were about to write Kofi off with that dropkick to the steps. I don’t think Kofi will be gone too long, they can’t deny us a Kofi Kingston trick to survive in the Rumble. Really good sorta filler/not filler match from Otis VS Ivar, with a literally big win for Ivar. Good promo from Jey Uso and Bronson Reed, and I’m thinking Jey is about to get in on the Intercontinental Championship plans we’ve been waiting to hear from Adam Pearce. Though if those ideas were supposed to involve Kofi, not sure what’s gonna happen now that he’s “out.”

Great stuff with Judgment Day tonight as always. R-Truth’s video still has me laughing, it was such a great use of AI image creation as well as just old school image and video editing. Truth is truly the best comedic wrestler today with his commitment to the bit. Great response promo from Judgment Day, too. Great promo from Rhea and Nia to hype up a possibility of those two meeting, but we also got a good promo from Becky so Becky’s totally gotta cost Nia in the Rumble. Maybe Rhea VS Nia is the Elimination Chamber Perth main event so that Rhea can show her full power in front of her home country.

Great match of Finn and Ciampa with Priest and Gargano also getting involved. I originally thought a title shot was on the line right with that, but guess not. And we got a great and hilarious match out of Miz VS JD with Truth and Dom getting involved. Great win for Miz, too, and it seems we’ll be getting some more tag matches out of this stuff before we see Finn & Priest VS DIY, certainly at Royal Rumble. I can’t be the chances of Finn & Priest losing, but it feels like something needs to happen so that we can finally de-unify these belts and each brand gets to have tag titles again. That might have to wait until a SmackDown team/teams challenges for the titles.

And great escalation of things for Cody and Nakamura with that backstage brawl, and then the Street Fight here. I was just hoping there’d be something more than another singles match, and this was a great move. I also applaud the timekeeper taking the red mist. We’re seeing a lot more non-wrestlers getting involved in spots like that all over wrestling, and timekeepers are almost not even noted in WWE, so aside getting all that red coloring all over his face, Berkley surely had a memorable moment tonight. I almost thought Nakamura was gonna win but that disqualification loss was a moral victory for him, so Cody gets THE victory to finish this and move to the Rumble. Though he’ll definitely need to watch his back because Nakamura will surely want to eliminate him in the match.

My Score: 8.8/10