What is the state of the American Nightmare?

Cody Rhodes did NOT sell out to The Rock, but JOHN CENA DID! Cody is still showing up on SmackDown tonight, what will he have to say?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Tiffany Stratton VS Piper Niven; Tiffany wins.
• WWE Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Triple Threat: Pretty Deadly VS Los Garza VS Motor City Machine Guns; Pretty Deadly wins and will challenge for the titles.
• Solo Sikoa VS Braun Strowman; Braun wins, by disqualification.
• WWE Women’s United States Championship Street Fight: Chelsea Green w/ Piper Niven VS Mia Yim; Chelsea wins and retains the title.
• Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso; McIntyre wins.
• WWE United States Championship: Shinsuke Nakamura VS LA Knight; Knight wins and becomes the new WWE United States Champion.

PLAY BY PLAY

Drew McIntyre arrives backstage.

The Scottish Terminator is still pissed about his Elimination Chamber loss even a week later, and now he’s set to face #BigJim Uso later tonight. Wait, McIntyre spots Damian Priest! McIntyre CLOBBERS Priest, and shouts, “What’d you think was gonna happen?!” He SMACKS Priest off the road case, then looms over him. The terminator gets even with the man who eliminated him, but will Drew end up facing his punishment?

Randy Orton is here!

Philadelphia fires up for The Viper as he returns to SmackDown! Orton returned last week at Elimination Chamber to stop Kevin Owens from crossing the line on Sami Zayn, and it is clear who the Apex Predator is hunting this time. Orton does his signature pose and enjoys the fans singing along with Voices before he grabs the mic. The fans cheer “RANDY! RANDY!” and he takes a moment. The cheering just keeps going so Orton waves to the crowd. It is a full house in Wells Fargo Arena, and Orton feels that energy. “Hey, so, Philly, a lot of crazy stuff has happened since I’ve been gone, right? I mean, just in like the last week or so.

“For as long as I can remember, ever since I started in this business, John Cena…” Fans boo that name now. “John Cena has always been on the top of this profession. And now, he’s just a bottom for Rock. I guess that gives a whole new meaning to the term, ‘Rock Bottom,’ now doesn’t it? Doesn’t it, John? But I digress. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night SmackDown!” The fans cheer that, and Orton continues by saying he brought Cena up because he was one of the few friends Orton has in this business. Their careers paralleled each other, they had a lot in common, and that is a short list of people.

One of the other names on that short list is Kevin Owens. Fans boo that name, too. Orton says he and Kevin have a lot in common. They’ve both done vile things just to get the job done. They’ve both crossed the line, pushed the envelope, but always in the name of business. But guys, Kevin Owens the wrestler, Orton still respects. Kevin’s story of how he got to the WWE, how he busted his ass, it is really quite admirable. You could say that Orton admires Kevin Owens the wrestler. But it’s Kevin Owens the man that Orton has a problem with. Now, there is a quote out there, Orton might butcher it, but he’ll try to do it.

“Never underestimate a jealous man’s ability to destroy another man.” If you ask Orton, that’s Kevin to a T. Kevin’s veins run with jealousy. Case in point, look at Cody Rhodes. Kevin drops Cody on his head with a package piledriver. Kevin would say he tried to end Cody because Cody chose Roman Reigns as a tag team partner. No, Kevin did that because Kevin was jealous of the gold around Cody’s waist. Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens, they fought tooth and nail long before they made it to the WWE. It’d always come full circle and they’d become friends again. But at Elimination Chamber, Kevin attempted to drop Sami on his head for a second time, on the concrete!

Kevin would have you believe that was because Sami helped Roman at the Royal Rumble. But no, Kevin tried to end Sami because Sami had slowly yet surely become a bigger star than Kevin Owens. That short list Orton talked about that Kevin was on, Kevin was Orton’s friend, but then Kevin dropped Orton on his head with a piledriver. An illegal move in the WWE for as long as Orton’s been here, simply because Orton was protecting his friend. What does Kevin have to be jealous about? He’s won every title in the WWE! Every single one! If you asked anyone in the back what their one goal, if they could only have one, here in the WWE, they’d say to main event WrestleMania!

Kevin did that not once, but twice, and one of the times was against arguably one of the biggest stars in this industry! It was Stone Cold Steve Austin! What does Kevin Owens have to be jealous about? He’s never satisfied, it’s never enough! A year and a half ago, Orton had a spinal fusion surgery and was told it was a career ender. Doctor after doctor said that was it, hang up the boots. But Orton would not take no for an answer. He busted his ass to come back, and told himself not to let things upset him in this ring. He didn’t want to take one second of performing in front of the lovely people for granted.

Orton didn’t want to get pissed off, but guess what? Kevin gone done pissed Orton off! SO last week, when Orton came out to save Sami from a career ending piledriver, Orton ran out here to RKO Kevin down! And as Orton looked down on Kevin, he thought, “What is this feeling coming over me?” Normally an RKO is all he’d need to be satisfied, case closed, see you next week. But something came over him that he hadn’t felt in over a decade and a half! A feeling that Orton liked! And you know what it was? The Voices started talking to him! Those voices told him to back up, measure his mark, and KICK Kevin in the head so hard, that even his closest family members couldn’t recognize him!

“Listen, Kevin Owens. Listen to me when I say. In fact, WWE Universe, entire world, listen to me when I say… I am going to prove in short order that Pat McAfee is only the second greatest punter in the WWE!” The fans fire up for that! The Apex Predator wants to do a lot more than just kick some ass! Will the Prizefighter stay far, far away from SmackDown from now on?

Chelsea Green & Piper Niven barge into Nick Aldis’ office.

The Women’s United States Champion interrupts the SmackDown General Manager’s meeting with THE WWE Women’s Champion, Tiffany Stratton. Chelsea says it is unconstitutional that she must defend her title tonight in a Street Fight! Tiff says they were in the middle of something. Chelsea says it better be the middle of discussing her consequences for ruining Chelsea’s Canadian homecoming! Chelsea wants Aldis to stop letting people bully her into matches! This is discrimination! She knows her rights. Then exercise the right to remain silent. Piper speaks up. Is Tiffany trying to censure them?

Yes! Just shut up! Or maybe Tiff will make Piper shut up in a match of their own. Chelsea says no, Piper has to be part of the Secret Her-vice detail. Aldis says one thing, though. Piper doesn’t work for Chelsea, she works for the WWE, and Aldis likes Tiff’s idea. Tiff is happy and says tootles! Chelsea says she’s been saying they need MORE Secret Her-vice! But will Chelsea’s only line of defense end up stuck on Tiffy Time?

Tiffany Stratton VS Piper Niven!

SmackDown returns and Piper makes her entrance. The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally, the two tie up, and Piper powers Tiff to a corner. The ref counts, Piper lets off, but she shoves Tiff. Tiff shoves back, they tie up, and Piper THROWS Tiff down by her hair! The ref reprimands, but Piper drags Tiff up to whip. Tiff goes up and over, handsprings away, then headlocks. Piper powers up but can’t power out as Tiff holds tight! Piper gets free on the second try, then she CLOBBERS Tiff! The fans boo but Piper runs. Tiff avoids the senton, and she hits a basement DROPKICK! Tiff then goes to the apron, KNEE-BOARD SENTON! Cover, TWO!

Tiff stays focused and handsprings corner to corner. But Piper catches her! Piper TOSSES Tiff up and out, and Tiff tumbles to the Hydration Station! Piper steps out to the apron, and CANNONBALLS tiff to the floor! Piper rises and stands over Tiff, but SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Piper scoops Tiff, but Tiff RANAS free! Tiff LARIATS but Piper stays up! Tiff LARIATS but Piper still stays up! Piper swings, Tiff dodges and CLOBBERS Piper with a shoulder! The fans fire up as Tiff handsprings again, and the BACK ELBOW hits this time! Tiff snapmares Piper, then runs to basement DROPKICK again! Cover, TWO! Piper stays in this and Tiff grows frustrated. Tiff drags Piper up, but Piper RAMS her into a corner! And again, and again! The ref counts, Piper ROCKS Tiff, then soaks up the heat. Piper goes back in, but Tiff dodges! Tiff THROWS Piper down, then goes up!

The fans fire up as Tiff reaches the top! SWANTON BOMB! Cover, TWO!! Piper survives and Tiff is shocked! Tiff drags Piper up, fireman’s carries, but Piper’s too much to lift! Piper shoves and scoops, SCRAPBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Tiff survives and now Piper’s shocked! Piper drags Tiff to a drop zone and she goes up the corner! The fans freak out already, but Tiff moves! Piper FLOPS off the mat! PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER! Cover, Tiff wins!

Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall

Now that was a big win for- WAIT! Charlotte Flair slithers in and CHOP BLOCKS Tiff! The fans boo Charlotte and her orange boots, but she steps through to have a FIGURE FOUR! Tiff flails, but Charlotte puts on the FIGURE EIGHT!! Tiff is stuck, refs rush out here to tell Charlotte to stop! Charlotte lets go of Tiff, then tells refs to get out of her face. Charlotte taunts Tiffy, as well as the fans. But will the Queen take back her throne when WrestleMania rolls around?

Nick Aldis speaks.

“It’s officially March, so allow me to illustrate the madness that is the current state of the tag team division. Let’s start here: The Motor City Machine Guns. They faced DIY four months ago, and in a historic night, after defeating DIY, they went on to win the tag team championships. The Street Profits were next in line. But before they could make that happen, it was disrupted by Tommaso Ciampa. When the Profits were ready for another bite of the apple, they were attacked mysteriously. Which meant DIY took their place, and in a shocking turn of events, Johnny Gargano betrayed his friends and mentors of 20 years, and DIY reclaimed the tag team gold.

“When the Profits returned, they were informed by Pretty Deadly, ‘It was Gar-‘ ‘-za. It was Garza,’ that attacked them. This was untrue, and the Profits returned the favor, chaos ensured. We then came to find out that it was DIY who put Pretty Deadly up to it. And that’s where we have all this chaos. Now we go to The Royal Rumble, 2 Out of 3 Falls match between the Machine Guns and DIY, which was disrupted by the returning Street Profits. And since then, it has been nonstop fighting and chaos. So, here’s my solution: Next week, the Street Profits get their long awaited, long overdue title shot against DIY.

“Which leaves us with tonight: Pretty Deadly will face Los Garza and the Motor City Machine Guns in a Triple Threat match to determine who’s next in line as #1 contenders. As you can see, it’s really very simple.” Aldis drops the pen, but who will drop the ball and let this opportunity slip through their fingers?

WWE Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Triple Threat: Pretty Deadly VS Los Garza VS Motor City Machine Guns!

SmackDown returns, the teams are all in the ring now, and in this Triple Threat, only two teams are legal. Chris Sabin starts against Kit Wilson, only for Angel to tag himself in! Angel tells Sabin to get out, but then Kit DROPKCISK Angel! Sabin says that’s not his fault. Angel gets back in, ducks ‘n’ dodges, and he DROPKICKS Kit out of the hurdle! And OFF COME THE PANTS! Angel taunts Kit, but Alex Shelley tags in off Angel. But then Berto tags in off Kit! Elton gets mad, he and Sabin storm in, and now it’s just a brawl! The fans fire up for the chaos, but the ref reprimands all the teams.

Shelley fires hands on Elton Prince, Sabin does the same to Kit. They both run, but into DOUBLE BOOTS! Pretty Deadly runs up, MCMG puts Pretty Deadly on the apron, Los Garza run up! MCMG dodges, the BOOTS hit Pretty Deadly! MCMG run up, but into mule kicks! Berto gives Angel the boost to DOUBLE DROPKICK MCMG out! Then Los Garza go up a corner, they DOUBLE ARIHARA MOONSAULT onto all their opponents! The fans fire up while all six men are down, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Shelley and Angel stand up, but Berto attacks Shelley. Los Garza puts Shelley in, and Berto stalks Shelley. Berto snapmares Shelley, KICKS him in the back, then soaks up the heat. Berto then drags Shelley up, scoops him, and SLAMS him! Berto rolls back and STANDING MOONSAULTS! Cover, TWO! Shelley stays in this but Berto tags Angel. Berto shoves Shelley down, then has him on the apron. Angel runs, Los Garza gives Shelley a PENALTY KICK ENZIGIRI COMBO! Shelley staggers right up to the cameraman, then falls against the barriers. Angel taunts Pretty Deadly before he fetches Shelley.

Angel CHOPS Shelley, taunts fans, then puts Shelley in the ring. But Elton tags in off Angel! Pretty Deadly do Scott Hall fingers at Angel, then Elton rains down forearms on Shelley. Elton drags Shelley up, fires body shots, then he tags Kit. Shelley fights back against Pretty Deadly! He DECKS Kit, ROCKS Elton again and again, but Elton UPPERCUTS! Elton brings Shelley around, half nelon, and Kit is up top! BULLDOG FACEBUSTER COMBO! Cover, Los Garza and Sabin break it! Pretty Deadly is annoyed, but Kit UPPERCUTS Shelley to the corner. Kit whips Shelley back in, and SHelley hits buckles hard.

Shelley staggers, Kit UPPERCUTS him in the corner again! Kit puts Shelley back in, runs again, and UPPERCUTS! Tag to Elton, they get Shelley up, but Shelley fights free! SmackDown returns to single picture as Shelley wrenches Kit, catches Elton, and hits a DDT COMPLETE SHOT COMBO! The fans fire up and Shelley crawls, hot tag to Sabin! The fans fire up as Sabin goes up top, and he MISSILE DROPKICKS Elton! Berto tags in off Elton, but Sabin dodges him, BOOTS Angel, and then BOOTS Berto! Sabin goes up to FLYING RANA! The fans fire up while Berto goes to another corner. Sabin runs up, ELBOWS and snapmares, and the fans fire up again!

Sabin goes up and FLYING TORNADO DDT! Cover, TWO! Berto is tougher than that, but Sabin brings him up. Sabin back suplexes, Berto lands out, and Elton tags back in. Berto BOOTS Sabin, Elton THROWS Berto down! Elton CLOBBERS Sabin, but Angel POP-UP KICKS Elton! Kit kicks Garza for a TWIST OF TASTE! Berto FLYING CHUCKS Kit! Sabin ducks ‘n ‘dodges Berto to tilt-o-whirl RANA! Shelley opens the way, Sabin DIVES onto Elton & Los Garza! Sabin puts Elton back in, Shelley goes up, but Kit SHOVES Shelley down! Elton backslides Sabin, PRETTY DEADLY WINS!!

Winners: Pretty Deadly, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championships)

What a shocker! Sabin gets caught by a pretty standard move, but will that be all it takes for Elton & Kit to say #YESBOY to NEW WWE Tag Team Champions?

Bianca Belair is here!

The EST has had perhaps the wildEST week anyone’s had in a long time. Jade Cargill returns to attack Naomi, but Bianca still finds the strength to win the Elimination Chamber. And after watching, and perhaps influencing, Rhea Ripley VS Iyo Sky, we now know Bianca faces Iyo Sky for the Women’s World Championship. Bianca grabs the mic as she steps into the ring, and she is very stern and serious right now. She says, “I should feel like I’m on top of the world right now after winning Elimination Chamber. And I really should be focused on going to WrestleMania, but… It’s really hard to do that when two of your friends are fighting.

“I formed a bond with both of these women. Jade and I, we elevated the tag team division together. And Naomi, she stepped in so all that hard work wouldn’t go to waste. And Naomi… We were close before, but once we formed that tag team, I can honestly say she became my best friend. So no, no, no, I do not believe that Naomi would do something like that. But then again, I’m so confused, I literally feel like I’m going crazy. And now I’m being, so I need some answers. Naomi’s not texting me back, Jade’s not talking to me, I feel like I’m losing both of my friends. So Naomi, I know you’re back there, and I need you to come out here and give me some answers right now.”

Fans cheer for that, and we all wait. Naomi’s music hits, Bianca is relieved, and Naomi makes her way out here, still wearing a neck brace after last week’s brutal attack by Jade. Naomi steps into the ring, grabs herself a mic, and Bianca asks Naomi, “What in the hell is going on?” Naomi tells “BB” that this is not what it looks like, and she needs Bianca to lock in with her. Understand what she’s about to say. Naomi must ask Bianca: When Jade couldn’t compete, who stepped up? Who had Bianca’s back? And who made sure Bianca didn’t have to relinquish the titles? Bianca says stop, Naomi. Did she or did she not attack Jade?

Naomi says all that noise is a distraction from what she and Bianca should be doing, which is getting the tag titles back from Liv & Raquel. Then Bianca can focus on WrestleMania. Bianca says no, stop. Naomi is talking about everything else than what we’re supposed to talk about. They need to figure out what happened with Jade. This is about Jade right now. Oh, Jade, Jade, Jade! Bianca really wants to know how Naomi feels about Jade? Then she’ll tell you. She never said this before cuz she didn’t wanna be messy and hurt Jade’s little feelings. But the way Naomi sees it, Jade’s been piggybacking off Bianca this whole time!

That is Naomi’s truth, and she has been forced to watch someone like Jade succeed off of Bianca’s excellence, experience and hard work, while Naomi was forced to fight for herself every match. Naomi didn’t say a word. She let them get their flowers. She let them be great. And she was so proud, never saying a word. But deep down, that is how she feels! And no, she doesn’t give a damn about Jade, cuz Jade didn’t give a damn about Bianca! Bianca says stop! But Bianca wanted the truth! No, not this! Don’t gaslight her! Naomi and Bianca argue over what they’re even talking about, and Bianca shouts, “STOP! STOP!!”

Bianca and Naomi take a few breaths. Bianca simply wants a yes or a no, and Bianca needs to answer now or else Naomi will never hear from Bianca again. Naomi needs to tell us all right now. Naomi starts tearing up, then takes a breath. Naomi looks Bianca dead in her eyes, lip quivering, and works up the courage to speak “I DID IT.” Bianca can’t believe it! But Naomi says there you go! She did it! She attacked Jade, for Bianca! For them! It was always  supposed to be about Bianca and Naomi! Bianca can’t believe it! This whole time!? DON’T TOUCH HER!! Bianca says the reason this hurts so bad is because of how much she loved Naomi!

Naomi says she does love Bianca, too, but Bianca says no, she’s said enough! Bianca can’t even look at Naomi now. So this? This team up? They’re DONE. Why?! Because of Jade?! Naomi cries as Bianca leaves, and Naomi apologizes, but Bianca tunes her out. Naomi still insists she did this for Bianca, she just doesn’t see it yet. Don’t walk out on her! Fine, here’s the truth! Naomi should’ve pushed Jade harder! She should’ve done it sooner! Bianca cries as Naomi shouts that every time Naomi clocks in and stands up for herself, everyone turns on her! That’s what Bianca is doing! “You ungrateful b*tch!!” Now Naomi’s gone too far.

Bianca turns around, stares in disbelief, but wait, who is this arriving backstage? IT’S JADE!! The Storm storms her way out to ringside, and she might just finish what she started last week! Jade looks to Bianca, Bianca says go ahead. Jade goes right to the ring, Naomi says bring it! Then she runs away! Jade chases Naomi, grabs her from the barriers, and SMACKS her off the desk! Jade HAMMERS away on Naomi, shoves her down, and then POSTS Naomi! Jade tells Naomi to get up! Jade drags Naomi up, THROWS her into the ring, and the fans fire up as she chicken wings Naomi! Naomi gets JADED!!

Jade stands over Naomi, her white jumpsuit covered in red paint like bloodstains, and she has avenged herself. But now, what will the future look like for the former Big 3?

Backstage interview with Drew McIntyre.

Byron Saxton walks up to the Scottish Terminator and says he knows about McIntyre’s match with Jimmy Uso later tonight, but Byron asks about that attack on Damian Priest and how that was unprovoked. McIntyre asks Byron if he’s been watching the show this past year. Does he listen? So many people are so “shocked” by John Cena’s actions last week, as if McIntyre hadn’t told them what kind of person he is all along. McIntyre would’ve saved so many people from heartbreak after he hit that Claymore in Cena’s big, stupid head, only for Priest to slither in and steal a pin from behind, taking away McIntyre’s last chance at the title for WrestleMania.

Unprovoked? McIntyre calls that well-deserved. We’re on the Road to WrestleMania, but because of Priest, McIntyre has nothing. Nothing but violence! And it starts tonight with the black sheep of the family. McIntyre storms off, is #BigJim going to be an example to the entire roster?

Backstage interview with Charlotte Flair.

Byron Saxton is now with The Queen, and he hopes she can shed light on why she ambushed Tiffany tonight, especially after her grueling match with Piper Niven. Charlotte says, “Ambush? No. See, I warned Tiffany that after the fun and games were over, that I was gonna be everywhere she was. It was her fault that she didn’t listen. And it seems like the division has gotten a little soft for a threat like Charlotte Flair. See, here’s the thing: Every time I come back, I have to remind people that there are levels to what we do.”

But then in steps B-Fab. She hopes she’s wrong, but she knows Charlotte can’t be talking about this women’s division being soft. No, B-Fab heard her right. Clearly, the division has been lacking overall talent since Charlotte’s been gone. And no one compares to her. B-Fab says look, Charlotte’s been gone a long time, but no one wants to compare to her. They want their own legacies. Nobody is bowing down to Charlotte anymore. See, that’s where B-Fab is wrong. Everyone eventually bows down to The Queen. Oh, here’s an idea. B-Fab should meet Charlotte in the ring next week in Barcelona, and she’ll show B-Fab how to bow down. Ciao.

Charlotte leaves, and SmackDown is going to really heat up in Spain! But will B-Fab show Charlotte that she can go hard?

Solo Sikoa VS Braun Strowman!

Well, speaking of that family, the would-be Tribal Chief gave Jacob Fatu his spot in last week’s United States Championship Contenders Tournament, then helped out in making sure the Monster of All Monsters didn’t win. Will Solo regret screwing over #OneBigSOB?

SmackDown returns and Solo makes his entrance, surprisingly leaving Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga backstage. The bell rings and the fans rally behind Braun. The two tie up, Braun shoves Solo, but Solo RAMS Braun! Bruan doesn’t even budge! Solo runs, RAMS Braun again, but Braun eggs him on. Solo kicks low, then fires hands. Solo runs, RAMS Braun, but Braun rebounds to CLOBBER Solo! Solo staggers up, Braun runs up and LARIATS Solo up and out! Braun then hurries out the side, and here comes the STRWOMAN- NO, Solo sends the express into the steel steps! The fans boo but Solo runs up, HIP ATTACK against barriers!

The fans boo more but Solo soaks it all up, and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Solo has Braun on his knees. Braun fires body shots in return, but Solo HEADBUTTS! Solo fireman’s carries, but Braun’s got too much brawn! Solo still tries, and he SAMOAN DROPS after all!! Solo flexes but the fans boo. Solo watches Braun crawl to a corner, and he runs up to HIP ATTACK! Braun sputters, Solo soaks up more heat, and then Solo slowly backs up to the other corner. Solo runs in again, but Braun BOOTS him first! Braun runs to CROSSBODY! Solo sputters to his feet, Braun BOOTS him back down! The fans fire up with Braun as he stands Solo up, and CLUBS him in the chest!

Braun roars, and he sees Solo go outside agian. Braun gets back on track, STROWMAN EXPRESS! Solo is knocked down, Braun puts him in the ring, and Braun runs at the corner! SPLASH! Then a scoop and- NO, Solo slips free! Solo RAMS Braun into buckles, then RAMS him in again! Solo mule kicks, then SUPERKICKS! Solo puts up the thumb, but Braun scoops Solo! MONSTER SLAM!! Cover, TAMA TONGA ATTACKS!

Winner: Braun Strowman, by disqualification

The Good Bad Guy shows up at the most opportune moment, and he beats up on Braun! But Braun SHOVES Tam away, then CLOBBERS him! Braun storms out after Solo, TOSSES Tama, but here comes JACOB FATU! The fans fire up as the Samoan Werewolf and Monster of All Monsters meet again. Braun and Jacob step back into the ring, the fans duel between “BRAUN! BRAUN!” and “FATU! FATU!” These titans step into the ring, and then they start throwing hands! Braun knees low, HEADBUTTS, then runs, but into a SUPERKICK! And another SUPERKICK! Braun tumbles out, the fans fire up, and Jacob builds speed!

Jacob DIVES! But Braun catches Jacob, to CHOKE SLAM him on the desk! Jacob tumbles now and fans go wild as Braun rips his shirt away! But Jacob is right back up!? And he FLYING ELBOWS! Down goes Braun! Jacob stalks Braun, and RAMS him into barriers! Braun slumps over into the crowd and the fans fire up again! Jacob stands on the barriers, and he AX HANDLES Braun back down! Refs rush out here and they tell Jacob to stop, but he isn’t stopping! Braun HEADBUTTS Jacob! Jacob UPPERCUTS Braun! The fans are fired up as Jacob SUPERKICKS Braun onto road cases! And now Jacob climbs up to join Braun!

Jacob drags Braun up, CLUBS him, and then fireman’s carries! But Braun fights free! Braun choke grips Jacob! CHOKE SLAM down through tables!! The fans are thunderous as the Monster of All Monsters throws down the Samoan Werewolf! Wait, Jacob is standing back up!? How?! Braun dares Jacob to come get some more, but producers step in to stop this. When and where will these living kaiju finally settle the score?

Backstage interview with LA Knight.

Byron reviews the madness of Braun and Jacob just now, and the Mega Star says that’s already a mouthful, so LEMME TALK TO YA! Knight guesses it was all gas, no brakes on Jacob’s big fat keister going through the tables, huh? But what that means, the man who cost Knight last time around is out of the picture. That means no distractions. That means it is Nakamura and Knight, “ichi go, ichi en,” which he knows Nakamura knows what that means: One moment, one time! One time it takes for the BFT to smack you back to factory settings. And then, one moment is Knight and Nakamura in the birthplace of the USA, that’s Philadelphia, PA!

And that one moment, which we can never relive again, is here so savor it while it lasts. That means we’re in the birthplace of the rebirth of Knight’s US Championship reign, YEAH! And when you think about it, Knight’s dealt with sneak attacks, with mist, with it all, and he stood tall, UH-HUH, YEAH! And he’ll put it to us like this: Ol’ Glory has needed a better representation as of late, and that’s what Knight will give it. Knight hopes those shadows were good to Shin, cuz Knight’s not gonna be! Out of the shadows and into the light, we can all once again pledge allegiance to the US Champion, L A KNIGHT! YEAH!!

Chelsea checks on Piper.

Chelsea hopes Piper is okay, because she really needs Piper out there for the Street Fight with Michin, because Chelsea has no idea what could happen out there. So just shake it off! But then Zelina Vega steps in and says hi. She just wanted to wish Chelsea luck. Or not. Really, it doesn’t matter, because whoever has the title, Zelina is coming after them next. Bye~! La Muneca leaves, Chelsea shakes Piper, and they both hurry out! Will the Hot Mess end up a mess despite her Cactus Jack cosplay? Or will Mia truly be the Head Baddie in Charge?

WWE Women’s United States Championship Street Fight: Chelsea Green w/ Piper Niven VS Mia Yim!

SmackDown returns and Mia makes her entrance, wearing the Philadelphia Eagles jersey and bringing a trash can full of goodies! The introductions are made, but Chelsea rushes Mia at the ramp! The brawl is on, the ref reprimands but the fans fire up! Mia ROCKS Chelsea, but Chelsea CLUBS Mia! Chelsea brings Mia up to SMACK her off the apron, but Mia THRWOS Chelsea into barriers! Mia drags Chelsea up, puts her in, and the fans fire up. Chelsea runs to BOOT Mia down! Mia staggers, but she goes to her trash can! She has a cookie sheet! SMACK for Chelsea! The fans fire up for this “E C DUB! E C DUB!” start.

Mia brings more goodies out, from a kendo stick to a chair, to a crowbar! Mia makes sure the trash can isn’t too far away, and she throws in some chains! The can is sent in, too, and Mia storms up. The bell finally rings, and Chelsea JAMS Mia up with the chair! Chelsea sits the chair up, whips Mia, but Mia reverses! Drop toehold and Chelsea SMACKS off the chair! Mia moves the chair aside while the fans cheer on “E A G L E S! EAGLES!” Mia nods, then she storms up on Chelsea. Chelsea SMACKS Mia with a trash can! Chelsea reels Mia in, but Mia fights the lift to BACKDROP! Chelsea hits chains!

Chelsea flounders out of the ring but Mia pursues. Mia drags Chelsea around, BITES Chelsea’s fingers, then says those are finger licking good. Fans chant for tables and Mia says bet! Mia brings out a TABLE! The fans fire up, but Chelsea hits a ZIGZAG on the floor! Chelsea pushes the table back under the ring, then salutes, but she clutches her stinging fingers, while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Chelsea stomps Mia, then goes around to get help from Piper. They look under the ring, bring out some more chairs, but Mia rolls into the ring. Chelsea storms in after Mia, stomps her down, then grabs a long rope. Chelsea and Mia fight over the rope, Chelsea SLAPS Mia down, then Chelsea ties Mia up using the rope. Chelsea drags Mia along, puts her in a corner, and then whips corner to corner, THROWING her with the rope! Mia tumbles, Chelsea stands her up again, and then THROWS her back the other way! Chelsea drags Mia across the ring, even over chairs and other things, to then go outside the ring and to the floor!

Chelsea stomps away on Mia, then CLUBS away on her. Mia staggers around the way, but Chelsea uses the rope to THROW her into barriers! Chelsea drags Mia back up, brings her back around, and THRWOS her into the apron! Mia flops down, Chelsea stands over her, and then she gags Mia with the rope! Chelsea CHOKES Mia! The ref reprimands but he can’t make Chelsea stop! Chelsea lets go and has a twisted smile on her face. Chelsea goes around the corner, yanks on the rope, but Mia stops herself! Then Mia YANKS Chelsea into the POST! Mia bites at the ropes and breaks free! SmackDown returns to single picture while Chelsea goes into the ring.

Chelsea staggers up, grabs at Mia, but Mia FIRE EXTINGUISHER BLASTS her!! Chelsea flails and flounders away! Mia says Philly’s gonna get what they want! She brings out the TABLE! But Piper storms up to CLOBBER Mia! The fans boo but the Secret Her-vice SMACKS Mia off the desk! Piper puts Mia in the ring and Chelsea hurries to grab the trash can! Chelsea sets that can up against Mia, Piper helping, and Chelsea goes to the corner! The ref reprimands but Chelsea is up top! Chelsea goes COAST2COAST!! Cover, TWO!! Mia survives and Chelsea is freaking out! B-Fab shows up, she snatches a kendo stick, and she SMACKS Piper!

B-Fab SMACKS Piper again and again, then chases her to the back! No more Secret Her-vice and Chelsea panics! Mia grins as she rises up. Mia has a kendo stick, and she SMACKS Chelsea again and again and again! Then she DROPKCISK Chelsea into a corner! Mia grabs the trash can and she THROWS it at Chelsea! The can is now wedged in Chelsea’s face, and Mia says get this twerk! FULL METAL CANNONBALL! High stack, TWO!! Chelsea survives and Mia is frustrated but the fans fire up. Mia takes the chairs, piles them together at center, and then she goes to get the table! Philly fires up again as Mia puts that in the ring!

Mia sets the table up in a drop zone, but Chelsea BULLDOGS Mia off it! Now Chelsea takes the table and finishes setting it up. Chelsea drags Mia up, fireman’s carries, and runs over, but Mia slips free! Wrench and EAT DA FEET! Chelsea sends up on the table, but the legs give out! Mia says whatever, she still goes up! SUPER SENTON down through the table!! Cover, SOMEONE ELSE drags Chelsea to safety!?! Mia is furious, but then this person GAMANGIRIS Mia! It’s ALBA FYRE! She’s also Secret Her-vice?! DESTROYER on the chairs!! Alba puts Chelsea in, she covers, Chelsea wins!!

Winner: Chelsea Green, by pinfall (still WWE Women’s United States Champion)

Chelsea was saved by her newest underling! The numbers game just keeps on growing, what will it take for anyone to stop this reign of terror?

Legado Del Fantasma regroups backstage.

Santos Escobar says that was a travesty! Los Garza again fail to grab an opportunity that was in their hands! All they had to do was win! Things need to start changing and soon. And this time, Santos does not expect it, he demands it! The Emperor of Lucha leaves, Angel agrees that Santos has a point. But as Angel leaves, Andrade steps in. He asks Berto why Berto takes that abuse from Santos. Andrade says he knows Berto, and that Berto deserves better. Berto leaves with a lot to think about. Will Legado change for the better? Or will it all fall apart?

Cody Rhodes is here!

Philadelphia fires up for The American Nightmare’s entrance, and they sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets the pyro, but he isn’t quite as fired up given the shiner he’s sporting on that left eye. We get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” but Cody skips the pyro to grab the mic. Cody kneels, sets the belt down at his feet, then stands up. The fans cheer Cody on, and Cody takes a moment to gather his thoughts. Fans chant “CENA SUCKS! CENA SUCKS!” but Cody says, “So, Philadelphia… City of Champions… What do we want to talk about? An obvious question with an obvious answer. It’s the most watched moment in WWE history, and pro-wrestling history.

“There I am, laying on the bottom, tasting my own blood. What do you say to a little one, not even four years old, when she looks up to you and asks, ‘Papa, what happened to your face?’ That’s not a conversation that I was prepared to have. So I told her what I can only classify as a ‘Cody lie.’ I told her that I ran into a wall. That’s not entirely untrue, I did run into a wall. A wall designed by The Final Boss, The Rock.” The fans boo that name. Cody says, “His associate, Travis Scott…” Fans also boo that name. “And by my WrestleMania 41 opponent, John Cena.” Fans definitely boo there.

Cody says he drove John around for two years, from show to show, city to city, all he was trying to do was sponge off all the knowledge he could. He saw John the many way other people did: John Cena was a hero. So one day, Cody will tell his daughter what really happened. He’ll tall her that a great man who did great things, who was Cody’s model in this sport, who was the very definition of the word “virtuous,” who would run to this ring, wearing a shirt emblazoned on it the phrase, “NEVER GIVE UP,” Cody will tell her that that man GAVE UP! Cody apologizes now for any language the fans might hear, he is maintaining his composure.

But Cody tells Cena that if he doesn’t owe it to Cody, Cena owes it to the fans. We all need to know: “Why?” And if Cody knows his old friend, then surely it will be a very smooth, well-educated, well-crafted retort. A signature amount of phrases, and when he is done, Cena will feel bulletproof, infallible and justified. But there is no justification for John Cena! Cody is well aware that he is talking to the whole world right now. However, for those in this room tonight, he doesn’t know if they know this story, maybe they heard Cody say this in interviews in the past. But this is the one place his father, Dusty Rhodes, was afraid to perform in.

Dusty even one time painted his face like the Road Warriors so he knew he was cool, so that the fans could cheer for him. Cody never shared that same fear, because for reasons unknown at one time, mustache on his face, climbing a ladder for the Money in the Bank briefcase, the fans cheered for him then, they chose him, and they rode with him! The fans cheer that, and Cody says he never forgot that moment. Then WrestleMania 40, just across the street from here, Cody went to #FinishTheStory that started in the 1970s! The fans cheered for Cody as they chose him again! The fans even cheer for Cody now.

Cody says, “Speaking of WrestleMania 40… You can watch it back, you can turn the audio up. My old friend, John Cena, in the ring celebrating with my friends and family. He looked at me, he pointed at the title, and I will never forget what he said. He said, ‘It gets heavier every day.’ Well…” Cody picks the belt back up, and he says here he is holding this title. It is not heavy enough! Here Cody is holding this title, as he done for the last 300+ days! He knows Cena is watching! He knows Cena thinks his successor had to look like him, talk like him, be like him, live like him, but the next one doesn’t look like the last one! And Cena is convinced that he is the last of his kind, but he is not!

Cody is right here, holding this title above his head as if it weighs NOTHING! And at Mania 41, Cody will do the same! Cena, clearly, you want some, so COME GET SOME!! Cody throws everything Cena has said back at him, and he certainly won’t give up! Will The American Nightmare deny Cena his 17th world title reign? Or will The Final Boss have something to say about that?

The Miz talks with Carmelo Hayes backstage.

As before, the A-Lister wants H1M to understand, main event players pitch main event ideas. As such, they’re here with Nick Aldis, and Miz says they both know there is so much more. Elimination Chamber, the world finally saw the John Cena that The Miz has been warning us all about. SmackDown doesn’t need a puff piece from Michael Cole or Joe Tessitore. It needs a hard hitting interview that redefines the main event of WrestleMania! No one will turn a head to the premiere of… Melo Don’t MizTv! Melo says hold on, he didn’t agree to that. But y’know, Melo wouldn’t mind asking Cody something.

“The Final Boss comes to you with the offer of a lifetime, the opportunity of a lifetime to change your life, and you fumble the bag at the one yard line? C’mon, what you thinking, man?” If The Rock gave Melo that offer, he would’ve done what Cena did. But then there’s guys like Randy Orton coming off the couch after four months of sitting at home, playing Fortnite. Fortnite? Orton steps in and says that game is for kids. Orton was playing Eldin Ring. Aldis says good to see you, Orton. But before he says anything, Kevin Owens is not here tonight. But it looks like Orton wants to get back in the ring, so here’s an idea.

How about next week, in Barcelona, Spain, Orton goes 1v1 with Carmelo Hayes? Orton says he loves it! And Melo, you’re on the one yard line. Don’t fumble the bag. Orton storms out, but Miz says hey, main event players do main event things. Melo does like that. But will Melo take down the Apex Predator? Or will there be an RKO that doesn’t miss?

Drew McIntyre VS Jimmy Uso!

The Scottish Terminator promised that this Road to WrestleMania will now be paved with nothing but violence and pain. He started tonight going after Damian Priest, will he end the night with taking out #BigJim? Or will #NOYEET translate to no Claymore?

SmackDown returns as Jimmy makes his entrance. The moment Jimmy’s in the ring, he fires hands right on McIntyre! The bell rings, Drew shoves Jimmy away, but then Jimmy dodges Drew! Jimmy CHOPS, CHOPS, and CHOPS! Jimmy whips, Drew reverses, but Jimmy grabs ropes. Drew runs up but Jimmy TOSSES him out! Jimmy runs to DIVE into a forearm! Drew stops Jimmy there, then storms back into the ring. Drew storms up on Jimmy and CHOPS him in return! Jimmy sputters and falls, but Drew stands him up. Drew whips Jimmy corner to corner, Jimmy goes up, but Drew KICKS him outta the air!

Drew goes outside to then drag Jimmy to the apron. Drew CLUBS Jimmy in the chest, the ring count starts, and fans taunt Drew with “C M PUNK! C M PUNK!” Drew fireman’s carries Jimmy, but Jimmy fights free! Jimmy SMACKS Drew off the desk! Jimmy then SUPERKICKS Drew, gets space, and he CROSSBODIES Drew onto and over the desk! Both men fall into the armchairs and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Drew throws hands, but Jimmy counter punches! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! And then mule kicks! Jimmy pops, locks and UPPERCUTS! Drew blocks a kick, but not the DRAGON WHIP! Drew comes back, Jimmy dodges and SAMOAN DROPS! Cover, TWO! Drew is still in this and rolls to a corner. Jimmy grins and starts up, “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jimmy runs in, HIP ATTACK! Jimmy drags Drew to the drop zone, then he goes up top! But Drew rises up to ROCK Jimmy! And CHOP Jimmy! Drew climbs up to bring Jimmy to the very top, but Jimmy fights with body shots!

Jimmy SHOVES Drew down, Drew hobbles, and Jimmy SUPERKICKS! Cover, TWO! Drew stays in this but Jimmy stays cool. The fans rally, Jimmy goes back to the corner, and he climbs back up. Jimmy aims for the USO SPLASH but has to roll through! Drew is up, he ducks ‘n’ dodges, CLAYMORE!! Cover, Drew wins!

Winner: Drew McIntyre, by pinfall

Jimmy got Drew last time, but Drew gets even with him in a definitive finish! But as Drew makes his exit, he decides he should go back for more! Only for Priest to CLOBBER him! The fans fire up as Priest gets his payback on Drew! Refs and producers rush out to stop this, but fans want to “LET THEM FIGHT! LET THEM FIGHT!” Priest says Drew should’ve killed him! But now Priest will do this on sight! Priest even shoves past producers to SUPERKICK Drew down! Priest HAMMERS away on Drew, and it takes all the producers and refs to drag him away! The Street King is enraged, will he punish the Scottish Warrior?

Shinsuke Nakamura speaks.

“LA Knight, after tonight, you will have no choice but to accept reality. And reality is that the United States Championship has passed you by, and is firmly in my possession. I knew that you stubbornly would would make one final attempt at my championship. Therefore, there is no better location for the death of your dreams than the birthplace of the United States. After the battle is over, I will cotninue to be the champion you never could be. Tonight, you will beg for mercy. And you find none!” The King of Strong Style has spoken, will his word be law? Or will the king be dethroned by the Knight?

Backstage interview with DIY.

Byron is with Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano, and brings up all the turmoil in the tag division, and how they’re set to defend the WWE Tag Team Championships against the Street Profits. Would they say this is their toughest challenge yet? Gargano says the division is on fire, but there is only one Best Tag Team In The World, and everyone knows that the BTTITW is DIY. Ciampa says we heard earlier how all the teams want what DIY has, and they can all fight over who is 2A and who is 2B. But there is only ONE Number One, and you’re looking at them!

As for the Profits, ever since they came back, they’ve got this new attitude! They’re big, bad, dangerous, with revenge on their minds and a dream in their hearts! They hope to win, but hope can be a dangerous thing. The Profits think they have a chance, but next week in Barcelona, the cold reality is, The Profits aren’t getting into the ring with just greatness, they’re getting in there with the best! Their dream is already dead. So out of respect, let’s hold a moment of silence for the Profits and their dreams of becoming the next WWE Tag Team Champions. That moment begins now. Byron speaks and Gargano says be respectful!

DIY make Byron stop, then leave. Will DIY still be this arrogant once they and The Profits actually fight it out in Spain? Or will the Profits’ dreams go up in smoke?

WWE United States Championship: Shinsuke Nakamura VS LA Knight!

We heard from both men tonight, and we’ve seen them go back and forth for months now. And now, this will be the fight that settles the score! Will it be like Rocky Balboa overcoming his dangerous opponents? Or do underdogs get only scraps in the King of Strong Style’s kingdom?

SmackDown returns and Nakamura makes his entrance. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and once more the Knight clashes with the samurai!

The bell rings, Nakamura runs up but Knight dodges! Knight fires hands, then whips, but Nakamura reverses to kitchen sink knee! Nakamura KICKS Knight, Knight goes to ropes, and Nakamura storms up. Knight fires haymakers in return! Knight kicks and whips, Nakamura grabs ropes and bails out! The fans boo but Knight goes out after Nakamura! Nakamura mule kicks first, then he puts Knight on the apron. Nakamura CLUBS Knight, runs and KNEE LIFTS Knight back in! Nakamura shows off by doing a cartwheel KNEE DROP! Nakamura waits on Knight, then runs back in, but he blocks boots first!

Nakamura puts Knight in the ropes, KICKS him and SLIDING GERMANS! The fans rally while Knight writhes. Nakamura runs up in the corner, but Knight BOOTS him again! And FLYING BULLDOGS! Knight then runs to LARIAT Nakamura up and out! The fans fire up as Knight keeps going, and he WRECKS Nakamura with a dropkick! Philly fires up for LA while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Knight goes up onto the barriers, the fans cheer him on, and Knight AX HANDLES Nakamura back down! Knight puts Nakamura back in, goes up a corner, but Nakamura YANKS him back down! Knight hits buckles, but Nakamura puts him back up along the top rope. KNEE LIFT! Knight sputters and flops to the apron while Nakamura paces around. Nakamura slides out the side, storms up on Knight, and he SMACKS Knight off the apron! Knight staggers away, Nakamura kicks him along, and then he KICKS Knight against barriers! Knight staggers away while Nakamura refreshes the ring count.

Nakamura brings Knight up, but Knight blocks the bump off the desk! Knight DRIBBLES Nakamura off the desk now! Then he hits SNAKE EYES! Nakamura sputters, Knight brings him around and whips, only for Nakamura to reverse! Knight hits steel steps hard! Nakamura again refreshes the ring count, then he stomps Knight. Nakamura CHOPS Knight, stalks him some more, and they go back into the ring. Nakamura stalks Knight again, KICKS him, then scuffs him. Nakamura paces while Knight rises, and Nakamura snapmares Knight down for a KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Nakamura CLUBS him down.

Nakamura fires knees into Knight, KICKS him in the leg, then ROCKS him with a forearm. Knight hits back as SmackDown returns to single picture, and the fans rally as the forearms go back and forth! “YEAH! BOO! YEAH! BOO!” Nakamura fires a strike fest, but Knight dodges the right hook to LARIAT! Knight then dodges Nakamura to send him into buckles! JUMPING NECKBREAKER! Scoop and POWERSLAM! The fans fire up and spell it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!!” Knight runs to ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Nakamura stays in this but Knight stays cool. Nakamura goes to a corner, Knight is on him with body shots.

The fans rally as Knight puts Nakamura up top. Knight fires hands, then climbs, but Nakamura fires hands! Knight staggers back, Nakamura adjusts, but Knight runs up to jump up! Nakamura slips under and trips Knight up! Then he puts Knight back up to sit him on his kavorka! Nakamura CLUBS Knight, climbs up, and he rains down ELBOWS! Nakamura then CLAWS Knight’s face, brings him to the very top, and hits a SUPER DUPER BACK SUPLEX!! A rough landing for Knight but Nakamura covers, TWO!! Knight survives but Nakamura fires KNEES into him from the side! Nakamura goes to a corner, takes aim, and Knight rises.

Nakamura runs up, but Knight LARIATS Nakamura inside out! The fans fire up while both men are down! Knight crawls, brings Nakamura up, and torture racks! Nakamura fights free, but Knight RAMS him into a corner! Knight staggers back, runs back in, but Nakamura dodges to ENZIGIRI! Knight staggers and stumbles, Nakamura goes up and climbs! But Knight SPRINGS up after Nakamura! SUPER DUPER SUPLEX! Knight says that’s not all! He goes back to the corner, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BOX JUMP ELBOW DROP! Knight fires up and the fans are with him! Nakamura stands, B F- NO, Nakamura gets away!

Nakamura bails out and fans boo, but Knight won’t let him get away! Knight hurries after Nakamura, and blocks a chair shot! Knight kicks Nakamura low, but the ref says don’t do it! Knight remembers this is a standard match, so he drops the chair. Only for Nakamura’s SPIN BACK ELBOW to hit! Nakamura puts Knight in, then grabs the chair! The ref tells Nakamura not to do it, but Nakamura doesn’t care! So the ref snatches the chair from Nakamura! The fans fire up for Lil’ Naitch, but Nakamura dodges Knight! Knight stops from running into the ref, and Nakamura winds up! Knight ducks and THE MIST hits the ref!!

Knight rolls Nakamura up, but the ref can’t make the count! Knight would’ve won by now, and then he sees what happened! The ref flops out of the ring, and Nakamura aims! Knight ducks the roundhouse but not the WHEEL KICK! Nakamura aims, SCORPIO RISING?!? A shoutout to Meiko Satomura, and Nakamura goes to the chair! Nakamura picks that chair up, takes aim, and runs in, but Knight BOOTS the chair away! Then B F T onto the chair!!! Cover, but where’s the ref?!? Here comes a spare! Cover and count, KNIGHT WINS!!!

Winner: LA Knight, by pinfall (NEW WWE United States Champion)

YEAH!! The Mega Star survives all the tricks up Nakamura’s proverbial sleeves, and he takes back the championship! But will this truly be the end of it? Can LA Knight move on to new challenges?

My Thoughts:

A great SmackDown to follow Elimination Chamber, and with some new WrestleMania build starting as well. For one, Drew McIntyre and Damian Priest had good stuff tonight, including McIntyre having a very good match with Jimmy Uso. They’ll have some good brawls, and they should definitely have a No Disqualifications match. They already had standard matches, and if they’re going to have this kind of heat, it should translate to the match. Randy Orton also has a good promo calling out Kevin Owens, and a good promo with Miz & Melo. Melo VS Orton will be very good, and I can see Nothing But Net turning into an RKO already.

Miz wanting a MizTV segment with Cody makes sense, he has the history with John Cena and The Rock at WrestleMania time to warrant his involvement here. Cody had a very good promo tonight, taking a slow burn approach as opposed to coming out hot to start like CM Punk did on Monday. But he’ll certainly have more of the same for next week’s MizTV in Barcelona. Great stuff from Braun’s story with Solo’s Bloodline. Of course Tama Tonga was going to attack to keep Braun from actually beating Solo, and it was a great shift to Braun and Jacob battling again. Only Jacob going through tables was pretty surprising to me, but then Jacob getting up anyway was wild. This surely turns into a Last “Monster” Standing or something like that to settle things.

Very good stuff in the SmackDown Tag Division, such as Aldis doing a very conspiracy board style chart of the teams and their feuds. That was a great Triple Threat, Pretty Deadly were certainly a surprise to win for me, but Kit & Elton have always done solid work so they deserve this. DIY VS Profits will be a very good title match next week, and honestly could go either way with Pretty Deadly as the next challengers. And I like that there was even a branch off in the story as Legado is feeling the pressure. Andrade talking to Berto was a nice touch. A shame Elektra Lopez was released, but I could see Legado being split where Berto sides with Andrade against Santos & Angel in a tag match.

We got really good story intertwining for the SmackDown Women’s Division tonight. Tiffany had a good promo with Chelsea & Piper, and then a very good match with Piper. Tiff of course wins, no sense in owing someone a title match by getting a pin on her. But Charlotte attacking should’ve been expected, that’s what a Heel would do. Charlotte had a good promo with B-Fab to set up Charlotte’s first singles match since her return, and that will be a very similar match as Tiff VS Piper: B-Fab will look good, but she will lose to build Charlotte’s momentum. Zelina had a good promo to taunt Chelsea, and clearly Zelina is facing Chelsea next.

Chelsea VS Mia was another great No DQ style match, with Chelsea’s Cactus Jack cosplay being genius stuff. But there’s some really weird irony behind the “Secret Her-vice” growing only now, after some releases were made. Blair Davenport was reportedly meant for this role, but now it’s Alba Fyre. With Blair and even Isla Dawn among the recently released, I suppose Alba might as well take this spot and grow Chelsea’s group to a trio. I foresee Chelsea, Piper & Alba VS Mia, B-Fab & Zelina in a Six Woman Tag, maybe even throw Charlotte and Tiffany in there for a big 8 Woman Tag that helps build a lot of stories at once.

The biggest moment of the night was Bianca confronting Naomi about the whodunnit. Bianca and Naomi brought such great emotion to that promo, and yeah, Naomi finally confessed and had her “I did it!” moment. Then Jade coming out to beat Naomi up again was good stuff. Hard to say if Naomi tries to get her payback, Jade was only taken out because Naomi ambushed her. This story could really be more about Jade and Bianca trying to work things out. Naomi may have attacked Jade first, but maybe what she was saying had a grain of truth. Did Jade ride Bianca’s coattails? Or is there respect between two of the strongest women in WWE today?

And we got a great main event from the Men’s US Championship. Knight and Nakamura both had very good promos, as expected from both sides, and that match was definitely the best of the feud. It’s just a shame Nakamura brings out Scorpio Rising for a loss. And kudos to Charles Robinson, he took a wicked lariat from Kevin last week, and he takes mist from Nakamura tonight. But Knight winning does make sense for a lot of reasons, both what he said about him winning the US Championship in the birthplace of the USA, and also because story wise, Nakamura needed his comeuppance. At this point, I would expect this building to many contenders, a Triple Threat or more for the title at Mania.

My Score: 8.8/10

The Ace has one last shot!

With 2025 being the Go Ace Retirement Tour, Hiroshi Tanahashi wants one last run at the top! But will Hirooki Goto deny President Ace the world title?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• NJPW World Television Championship: El Phantasmo VS Master Wato; ELP wins and retains the title.
• Ryohei Oiwa & Hartley Jackson VS Chase Owens & Bad Luck Fale; Chase & Fale win.
• Six Man Tag: Just4Guys VS Bullet Club War Dogs; War Dogs win, by disqualification.
• Gabe Kidd & “Drilla” Moloney VS Ren Narita & Yoshinobu Kanemaru; Double Count-out Draw.
• 8 Man Tag: Los Ingobernables de Japon VS House of Torture; LIJ wins.
• IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship: El Desperado VS Francesco Akira; Desperado wins and retains the title.
• IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Hirooki Goto VS Hiroshi Tanahashi; Goto wins and retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

NJPW pays tribute to Gran Hamada and Osamu Nishimura.

To honor the memory of two great Japanese legends, Hiroshi Tanahashi and Tiger Mask lead the procession to the ring, holding the portraits of Nishimura and Hamada, respectively. Among those that join them are Hiroyoshi Tenzan, Satoshi Kojima, Yuji Nagata, Togi Makabe, Tomoaki Honma, Jado, Ryusuke Taguchi, Boltin Oleg, Hirooki Goto, Yoshi-Hashi, Toru Yano, and the Young Lions. The rest of the names on tonight’s match card also stand by the entrance. The accolades of both legends are listed, and then we are given a moment of silence with ten rings of the bell. Then, to celebrate these legends, their theme songs are played one last time.

The procession then makes their way out, and it’s time for the show! May Hamada and Nishimura smile upon this 53rd Anniversary!

NJPW World Television Championship: El Phantasmo VS ???

The Headbanga has been the star of the show since WrestleKingdom, even surviving the Imperial Unit on the Road to New Beginning. However, he has a mystery “guest” for this match! Who will it be? And will they take the spotlight away from ELP?

ELP makes his entrance, Jado by his side, but ELP needs mics so he and Jado can talk. The mics are handed over, and ELP asks Ota City, “Are we good in the house? Lemme hear ya make some noise!” The fans cheer, and Jado translates, so the fans cheer again. ELP says today is NJPW’s 53rd Anniversary! That’s a lot of years of the best pro-wrestling in the world, baby! Jado translates that it is 53 years of Strong Style! And today is the first ELP NJPW World TV Open Challenge~! The fans cheer that, too! ELP asks, “Who’s it gonna be?” Jado translates, “Dare desu ka?!” ELP says he doesn’t care if you’re young or old… He looks at Jado…

And it doesn’t matter if you have long, flowing locks, or if you’re bald. Again, he looks to Jado. Jado is a little annoyed ELP is bringing all this up, but the fans cheer Jado on. Jado asks if ELP wants him to challenge for the title. ELP says it doesn’t matter who you are, because this is The Headbanga! This is NJPW World TV Champion, E! L! P! And the Open Challenge starts now! The fans cheer again, but seriously, who is coming to challenge? It’s MASTER WATO! Will the Way of the Grandmaster find his way to the spotlight?

The bell rings and we’re on the clock. The fans rally up, ELP offers a handshake, and Wato accepts. The fans cheer the sportsmanship and the two circle. They tie up, ELP puts Wato on the ropes, but then lets off with pats on the shoulder. ELP gets the fans to cheer “Wato! Wato!” but then he pats Wato on the cheek. Wato shoves and CHOPS ELP! ELP slips around to waistlock and SLAM Wato! ELP slaps Wato around, then clamps on a headlock. Wato rolls it to a cover, TWO! ELP holds on, Wato fights up but can’t power out as ELP holds tight! ELP grinds the headlock but Wato fights to his feet. Wato fires body shots, then powers out this time.

Wato reels ELP in and headlocks in return. Wato hits a takeover, ELP headscissors, but Wato kips free. Roles reverse with ELP hitting a takeover and Wato getting the headscissors. ELP kips free but Wato sweeps the legs! Cover, ONE! Wato jumps the sweep and he rolls ELP into VENDAVAL! ELP fights around, rolls and rolls and ends up on the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer as Wato lets go. ELP and Wato reset while the fans rally up. They circle, tie up, and ELP headlocks. Wato powers up and out this time, but ELP runs him over! ELP flexes and the fans cheer. ELP kicks Wato around, then runs. Wato stays low, then hurdles over!

ELP leaps over Wato now, then bypasses him. Wato RANAS, ELP handsprings through! ELP RANAS, Wato tumbles out, and ELP kips up! The fans fire up as ELP takes aim, PLANCHA but Wato moves! ELP lands on his feet, but Wato RANAS him into railing! Wato gets in the ring and the fans fire up! Wato builds speed and FLIES! Direct hit and down goes ELP! Wato is all fired up and the fans are with him! Wato drags ELP up, puts him in, and then takes aim. Wato springboards for the FLYING UPPERCUT! Direct hit and cover, TWO! ELP stays in this but Wato stays focused. The fans rally while Wato brings ELP up.

Wato wrenches ELP, but ELP resists the hook! ELP throws elbows into Wato’s leg, then ROCKS Wato with a forearm! ELP whips, Wato reverses to ROCK, KNEE, run and SHOTGUN DROPKICK! ELP falls to a corner, Wato covers, ROPEBREAK! ELP’s long limbs save him, but Wato brings him up. Wato whips corner to corner but ELP reverses. ELP runs up, but into a BOOT! Wato runs to BULLDOG! The fans fire up while ELP writhes! Wato pushes ELP to a cover, TWO! We hit five minutes so the clock is on ELP’s side. Wato clamps onto ELP with a chinlock, and even digs his knee into ELP’s back.

ELP endures, the fans rally up, and ELP throws hands. ELP pries at the hold, stands up, and he fires body shots! Wato lets go, and ELP ROCKS him! Wato ROCKS ELP, but ELP SOBATS! ELP runs, ROCKS Wato again, then runs. ELP ROCKS Wato at the ropes, then whips. ELP drops down, then DROPKICKS! The fans fire up while both men are down! ELP shakes out his arms and rises up. ELP storms up on Wato, drags him up and CHOPS him to a corner. ELP CHOPS again, then CHOPS again! ELP whips corner to corner, but Wato reverses. ELP stops himself, then goes up and over! ELP spins to CHOP!

The fans rally, ELP runs, but Wato BOOTS him! Wato runs, but ELP BOOTS him! ELP runs, ducks a lariat, and springboards to CROSSBODY! Then somersault to LION- NO, Wato dodges! ELP lands on his feet and he LARIATS Wato up and out! The fans fire up for the PLANCHA! Direct hit and down goes Wato! ELP stands, and he looks up at the corner. ELP climbs up the corner! The fans fire up and cheer on “E! L! P!” ARIHARA MOONSAULT! Down goes Wato and the fans fire up again! ELP drags Wato up to put him in the ring. ELP then climbs the ropes to SWANTON BOMB! And then LIONSAULT! Cover, TWO!

Wato stays in this and the fans fire up, but the clock is still on ELP’s side. ELP brings Wato up, straitjacket and torture rack! But Wato fights that! Wato CLUBS away on ELP, then wrenches the arm. Wato hooks ELP up, ELP fights free and arm-drags Wato away! ELP then kicks low, reels Wato in, but Wato fights the arm tuck! Wato spins free and swings around, crucifix takedown, then a roll through! RECIENTEMENTE DOS! Cover, TWO!! ELP survives and the fans fire up! Wato roars, and he brings ELP back up. Wato reels ELP in with a waistlock to deadlift, but ELP grabs ropes! The ref reprimands, but ELP holds on!

Wato CLUBS ELP, the fans rally up again, but ELP still clings to the ropes! Then ELP slips under, waistlocks, and he GERMAN SUPLEXES Wato! But Wato stands! SUDDEN DEATH!! Cover, TWO?!? We’re past ten minutes and ELP reels Wato in! ELP clutches his arm, but he tucks Wato’s. C R- NO, Wato fights the lift, so ELP KNEES him in the head! ELP gets Wato again, C R- RANA!! Wato has the cover, TWO!! ELP escapes, Wato runs up, and he rolls ELP up! TWO!! ELP escapes, Wato returns and sunset flips! TWO, but into VENDAVAL!! ELP endures the butterfly stretch, and he works to rock it back and forth!

ELP slips free but Wato uses that to ROLLING CLUTCH! Cover, TWO!! ELP has a cradle, TWO!! The fans fire up while both men catch their breath. Wato fires a forearm, ELP fires back! Wato fires another forearm, so ELP fires back! The elbow pads come off as we reach the three minute warning! Wato fires a flurry, but ELP fires body shots! ELP ROCKS Wato, runs, and LARIATS! Wato stays up, ELP tries again, but Wato dodges! ELP dodges, to HANDSPRING LARIAT!! ELP then wrenches, straitjackets, and torture racks! BRAIN SALAD!! Cover, TWO?!? Wato survives and the fans are thunderous! And we’re at two minutes left!

ELP hurries to tune up the band! SUDDEN- NO, Wato blocks, spins ELP around, TSUTENKAKU GERMAN!! Bridging cover, TWO!!! ELP survives but Wato is roaring! The fans are thunderous again and Wato drags ELP to a drop zone! Wato climbs up, but ELP stands! GAMANGIRI! Wato wobbles but ELP climbs up after him! ELP brings Wato to the very top, for a SUPER DUPER STEINER!! And then ELP goes right up! Last minute THUNDERKISS 86!! Cover, ELP WINS!

Winner: El Phantasmo, by pinfall (still NJPW World TV Champion)

ELP’s first Open Challenge almost ended up his last, but he found a way to win! But can ELP expect this level of competition with the next Open Challenge? Is this a sign that Wato’s future is still very, very bright?

Gabe Kidd & “Drilla” Moloney VS Ren Narita & Yoshinobu Kanemaru!

The Bullet Club Civil War has begun. Or returned? Depends on how you look at history. But the point is, the War Dogs are being told to get out of the clubhouse, because Everything is Evil! Will the status of Bullet Club Prime really belong to the House of Torture? Or will the Mad Man & 44 Caliber end this war before it begins?

Wait, where are the War Dogs? Their music is playing, Ren & Kanemaru are watching the ramp, but then two men jump in from the crowd side! They rush into the ring and attack! They’ve got hoods on but clearly we know who they are! One SUPERKICKS Kanemaru out of the ring while the other LARIATS Ren up and out! Reveal: It IS Gabe & Drilla! The fans fire up as the War Dogs get the jump on the House of Torture, and then they start beating them up on the outside! Gabe whips Ren hard into railing, Drilla does the same with Kanemaru! And now things spill out into the crowd! The fans fire up as the brawling goes to the back rows!

Gabe uses his jacket to CHOKE Ren! Ren flails, Gabe shoves him down, and Gabe says, “You think I came here to lose? You can never get the run up on me!” Speaking of up, Drilla brings Kanemaru up the bleachers and SMACKS him off railing! Ren fires back on Gabe, they go around the back, and Gabe ROCKS Ren! Drilla tries to dump Kanemaru over the ledge! Kanemaru fights back, and he tries to do the same! Drilla fights Kanemaru off, the ref reprimands them all, but things only go into the upper deck! Drilla HEADBUTTS Kanemaru, Gabe CHOKES Ren, and the fans fire up all the same!

The ref insists this actually become a match, but the lights come on so the fans can all see the beatdown! Drilla still tries to dump Kanemaru over a ledge!! The ref reprimands, Kanemaru fights back, and now Kanemaru tries to throw Drilla! Drilla again fights Kanemaru off, and fireman’s carries! Kanemaru fights free, CLAWS Drilla’s eyes, then stomps him down. The ref is calling for reinforcements but the Young Lions can only do so much as Ren throws hands down on Gabe. Kanemaru brings Drilla back down the bleachers, and now it’s Gabe’s turn to try and dump Ren! Ren holds on for dear life, and he CLAWS Gabe’s eyes!

Ren headlocks Gabe and brings him back down the bleachers now. Ren HEADBUTTS Gabe, Drilla CHOPS Kanemaru, then Drilla DECKS Kanemaru! Ren almost tumbles down the bleachers, and Gabe pursues. The fans fire up for their anti-heroes and bark along! Gabe stalks Ren to ringside, Drilla brings Kanemaru back to ground level, and Gabe POSTS Ren! Gabe grabs Ren’s pushup bar, and he has a wicked grin. Gabe dares Ren to get up, and the fans cheer him on as he stalks Ren. Ren panics, but then Gabe drops the pushup bar so he can stomp Ren! Gabe CLAWS Ren’s face, Kanemaru BOWLS Drilla into chairs!

Gabe BOOTS Kanemaru, and BOWLS Kanemaru into chairs! The fans fire up, but then Ren uses a chair as a weapon! Gabe kicks Ren, and he SMACKS Ren with the chair! The fans fire up more, and they bark along with the War Dogs. Gabe drags Ren up, brings him to ringside, and POSTS him again! Drilla fireman’s carries Kanemaru and runs him to ringside. SNAKE EYES off the apron! Gabe puts Ren in the ring, Drilla does the same with Kanemaru. The barking continues, and the bell finally rings! This is finally a match, but now the House is in retreat! Gabe dares them to come back and get this work! Drilla drinks Kanemaru’s whiskey!

The ring count begins, but Ren & Kanemaru stay away. Drilla goes out at 8 of 20 to attack Kanemaru! Ren stays back though it’s 10 of 20, then 12. Ren paces, but Gabe storms out after him! Gabe CLOBBERS Ren at the ramp, but Kanemaru whips Drilla into railing! Gabe pulls railing away so he can BOWL Ren into more chairs! The count is 10 of 20 and climbing! Gabe SMACKS Ren off chairs, we hit 15 but Ren SMACKS Gabe with a fan’s bottle of water! The brawling continues as we hit 20, IT’S A DRAW!

Double Count-out Draw

The bell rings, but the fight continues! Gabe fights back, and he sends Ren into more chairs! The fans fire up as Gabe goes after Ren, but Ren JAMS him up with a chair! And SMACKS him on the back! Ren drags Gabe up, brings him back to ringside, and POSTS him! Just a bit of payback for earlier, but Ren isn’t done! And Kanemaru POSTS Drilla now! Ren drags Gabe up, fights off Young Lions, but Gabe whips Ren hard into railing! Kanemaru sends Drilla into more railing, but Gabe does the same to Ren! Then Gabe DECKS Kanemaru! Gabe has the NEVER Openweight Six Man belt, but Ren has a chair!

The fans fire up for the standoff, but then Drilla WHISKEY MISTS Ren!! Gabe takes that chair and SMACKS Ren with it! Gabe keeps going, and he sends Ren into the stage truss! Gabe SMACKS Ren with the chair again! And then throws more hands! This brawl continues into the backstage area! Will these two brawl all the way until their match in the New Japan Cup?

IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship: El Desperado VS Francesco Akira!

The Rogue Luchador is the 2024 Best of the Super Junior winner, and he took this title back at WrestleKingdom 19. However, the Nova Fireball wants to avenge the past while becoming the future of this division. Will this title soon adorn the “Crown of Fire?” Or will Desperado still be the Best of the Super Juniors?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who brings the fire and desire!

The bell rings and the fans rally and duel already. Akira and Despy circle, tie up, and are in a deadlock. Despy’s height gives him leverage, but then Akira digs his heels in! Akira powers Despy to the ropes! The fans cheer, the ref counts, and Akira lets off slowly. Akira steps to Despy, then grins as he backs off. Despy and Akira reset, circle, and the fans duel again. The two rush up, Akira slips around to then headlock, but Despy powers up and out to have his own headlock. Akira powers out, but Despy runs him over! Only for Akira to pop right up! Akira eggs Despy on, and Despy gives that trash talk back.

Despy then CHOPS! Akira fires up to CHOP! Despy CHOPS, Akira CHOPS, repeat! The fans fire up as the CHOPS go back and forth, then Akira fires a flurry! Despy SLAPS Akira! Despy whips, Akira reverses then hurdles, but Despy rolls over the dropdown. Things keep moving, and Akira dodges to then RANA! Despy tumbles out, the fans fire up, and Akira builds speed! Akira slides, Despy ducks under, and he RAMS Akira into railing! They’re right in front of commentary, and Despy takes Milano Collection AT’s copy of Shingo Takagi’s book, as personally given to him by LIJ! Despy SMACKS Akira with it!

Despy gives the book back to Milano, then he CLUBS Akira on the neck. The book is okay, though. Despy whips Akira, but Akira tiger feints through the ropes! Despy hits railing, staggers back over, into Akira’s PLANCHA! The fans fire up for “A! KI-RA! A! KI-RA!” Akira drags Despy up, looks to the ring, but he whips Despy into railing! Despy falls over and Akira paces. The ref says to get this in the ring, so Akira drags Despy back up and puts him in the ring. Akira storms in, stands Despy up, and turns him for a NECKBREAKER! Cover, ONE!! Despy is tougher than that, but Akira stays calm. The fans rally as Akira looms over Despy.

Akira KNEES Despy in the side, then he drags Despy around to stomp him. And stomp again! Akira clamps on a CAMEL CLUTCH! Despy endures, the fans rally, but Akira pulls way back! Despy scoots backwards into the ROPEBREAK! Akira lets go cleanly, then he drags Despy up. Akira CHOPS Despy, Despy goes to a corner, and Akira wrenches an arm. Akira whips, Despy reverses, then Despy runs in, Despy blocks a kick to KICK the leg! Then Despy grabs the leg again, only for Akira to ENZIGIRI! And SHOTGUN! Despy tumbles and the fans rally for Akira again. Akira looms over Despy, eggs him on, and kicks him around.

Despy sits up to CHOP Akira! Akira nods and eggs Despy on. Despy CHOPS again, but Akira still eggs him on. Despy CHOPS, Akira knees low! Akira whips, Despy reverses, but Akira breaks free to wheelbarrow! Despy stops the victory roll to atomic SHIN BREAKER! Akira hobbles, Despy trips him and YANKS the leg! Akira writhes and clutches the knee but the fans rally up. Despy drags Akira to the ropes, puts the bad leg on the ropes, and then HIP DROPS that bad leg! Then STRETCH MUFFLER! Akira scrambles right to the ROPEBREAK! The ref counts, Despy lets go, but “Oops!” KNEE DROP! Akira writhes while the ref reprimands.

The fans rally and Despy stalks Akira. Akira CHOPS, but Despy mockingly applauds. Akira CHOPS again, but Despy KNEES him low! Despy whips Akira, Akira reverses, and Akira CALF KICKS! Both men are down, the fans rally and duel, and Akira crawls to a corner. Akira drags himself up using the ropes, but Despy storms up on him. Despy CHOPS, then whips, but Akira reverses. Akira runs up to LARIAT, and then he goes again. Despy follows, but Akira puts him on the apron! Akira runs to SHOTGUN Despy off the apron! Despy hits railing then slumps to the floor! Akira hobbles while the fans rally, and Akira goes up, up, and ASAI MOONSAULTS!

The fans fire up while both men are down on the outside. Akira crawls away as the ring count starts. Akira rolls in at 7 of 20, and Despy is still down at 10. Despy stands at 12, but Akira FLIES! Direct hit on Despy again and the fans fire back up! Akira still has to catch his breath on the outside, and the ring count returns. Akira and Despy stir at 3 of 20, Akira crawls away again, but both men are still down at 10. Akira clutches that bad leg, but he sits up at 13. Akira crawls over, and he rolls in at 15! Despy rises, but he’s still outside at 18! Despy staggers, and slides in at 19! Akira LIONSAULTS right onto him! Cover, TWO!!

Despy survives and Akira grows frustrated. Akira hobbles around, then he brings Despy back up. Akira reels Despy in, but Despy CLUBS away on the bad leg! Akira KNEES Despy, then reels him in! SPEED- NO, Despy wrenches free, waistlocks, but Akira fights the back suplex! Despy doesn’t let Akira run, and lifts for a SHIN- SUNSET FLIP! Cover, TWO! Despy has the STRETCH MUFFLER! And then the arm for NUMERO DOS! Akira flails with his one free limb, but Despy grabs hold of it! Akira activates the core and sits up! Then he shifts around, and hits a DESTROYER!! Both men are down and the fans fire up again!

Despy sputters but Akira crawls to a corner. Akira takes aim, and he pounds the mat. The fans cheer on “A! KI-RA! A! KI-RA!” Despy sits up, but Akira’s bad leg keeps him from running up. Akira just stomps away on Despy at the ropes instead! The ref reprimands and counts, but Despy KICKS Akira in the leg! Akira falls back, and Despy drags him around! Despy YANKS the leg, then SMASHES the knee off the mat! Akira grits his teeth in pain, but Despy just SMASHES the knee again! Akira crawls, the fans rally, and Despy looms over that leg. Despy wheelbarrows, but Akira victory rolls, STOMP 182! Even with one good leg!

Both men are down and the fans rally again. Despy sputters but he sits up first. Despy watches Akira, then runs up, but Akira avoids the dropkick! SUPERKICK! Despy takes a swing, but into arm hooks! Despy fights the backslide and flips Akira up and over! Only to get SPEEDFIRE!! Cover, TWO!! Despy survives and the fans fire up again! Akira crawls back to a corner and the fans rally for him again. Despy sits up, into the NOVA- SPINEBUSTER!! And then a BIG back suplex! Despy drags Akira up, hooks him up, GUITARRA DEL ANGEL! Cover, TWO!! Akira survives again and Despy can’t believe it! But the fans fire up as Despy brings Akira up.

Despy reels Akira in, underhooks the arms, and PINCHE- NO, Akira fights that to RAN- NO, Despy blocks the rana, brings Akira back up, and he ties up the legs! DOUBLE KNEE CRUSHER!! Akira writhes, but then Despy has the STRETCH MUFFLER! NUMERO DOS!! But what about the free arm?! Despy grabs that, too! Akira fights, flails, gets that arm free, ROPEBREAK, but Despy rolls him away right away! But Akira again sits up, only for Despy to POWERBOMB him down! STRETCH MUFFLER!! NUMERO DOS!! Akira still fights the ultimate form, but Despy claws at that free arm! The fans rally as hard as they can as Akira resists!

Despy has a grip, but he can’t keep it! Akira keeps fighting with that one free arm, and has the ROPEBREAK!! The ref counts, Despy lets go, and the fans are fired up again! Despy grows frustrated with Akira, but he wags his finger at the fans cheering Akira on. Despy taunts Akira to get up for his fans. Despy slaps Akira around, then Akira stands. Akira fires a forearm, but he falls over! That bad leg makes it hard to stand, but Akira still fires another forearm! Despy just watches Akira struggle to get back up. Akira fires another forearm, but Despy KICKS the bad leg! Despy says this is it! Underhooks and PINCHE- NO, Akira lands out?! NOVA FIREBALL!! Cover, TWO!?!

Despy survives that sudden turnaround and Akira is in disbelief! But the fans rally as hard as they can for him! Akira roars as he rises back up! Akira brings Despy around, but Despy DROPKICKS the legs out! Despy and Akira glare at each other, and Despy kicks away on the bad leg. Akira just grits his teeth and takes it all! Despy runs up, but Akira blocks the leg! Akira CLUBS the leg, fires SLAP after SLAP from all sides, but Despy ducks one to ROCK Akira! Despy runs, but Akira LARIATS!! The fans are thunderous as Akira crawls over to a corner! Akira leans on the ropes, then takes aim again. Despy sits up, into NOVA FIREBALL!!

But Akira came in too hot, he can’t make the cover! Akira crawls his way back to Despy, pushes him over to cover, ROPEBREAK!! Despy survives because Akira miscalculated, but the fans still rally. Akira rises up, hobbles his way back over, and he brings Despy around with chicken wings. Akira pops Despy up for the FIRE PLEX! And now “A! KI-RA! A! KI-RA!” aims again! Third time’s the charm! NOVA- NO!! Despy ducks, Akira crashes ‘n’ burns, and Despy has the STRETCH MUFFLER!! But Akira rolls it to a cradle! TWO!! Even Despy has to check that he escaped in time! But then Akira SUPERKICKS! Despy ROCKS Akira in return!

Akira just fires up to the max! ROUNDHOUSE! Despy flops over and the fans are thunderous! Akira aims again! NOVA FIRE- NO!! The leg gives out!! Akira writhes in pain, right beside Despy! Despy sees what happened and drags Akira back up. Despy underhooks the arms, but Akira fights with everything he has left! The fans fire up as Akira fights the underhooks, but Despy powers through! PINCHE LOCO!!! Cover, TWO?!?!? Akira survives and the fans are thunderous again! Despy is shocked, but there is still fire inside Akira! Despy grabs the legs, but Akira kicks at him! And kicks, and kicks, and KICKS!

Despy still holds the leg, and he GROUND DRAGON SCREWS! Then STRETCH MUFFLER! NUMERO DOS!! PLUS!!! Akira endures, but Despy puts all he can into the hold! He even hooks with a leg! There was a form BEYOND what we knew! Akira TAPS, Despy wins!!

Winner: El Desperado, by submission (still IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion)

This was truly a battle worthy of not just the Junior Heavyweight Championship, but of NJPW’s fighting spirit! But if this still wasn’t enough, what more will it take for Akira to have his moment? What more will it take to dethrone Desperado?

IWGP World Heavyweight Championship: Hirooki Goto VS Hiroshi Tanahashi!

It was truly a New Beginning for the Fierce Warrior last month, but we all know The Ace is on his Final Road. Both men have had epic battles throughout their careers, but this could be the greatest one yet! Will President Tanahashi have one last reign as NJPW’s top champion? Or will nothing stop Goto now that he’s finally living the dream?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see this classic showdown for the last time!

The bell rings and the fans are fired up and dueling already! Red Shoes sees it as rather even between “GO-TO-O!” and “TA-NA-HASHI!” Goto and Tanahashi circle, feel things out, and they tie up. Tanahashi waistlocks, but Goto wrenches and wristlocks. Tanahashi wrenches and hammerlocks, but Goto switches that onto Tanahashi. Goto then shifts to a headlock for a takeover, but Tanahashi headscissors. Goto kips free, the two stand up, and the fans cheer the standoff. Tanahashi and Goto reset, circle, and the fans continue to duel. Goto and Tanahashi circle, tie up again, and are in a deadlock. But Goto digs in his heels and powers Tanahashi to ropes!

Red Shoes calls the break, Goto lets off slowly, but Tanahashi turns things around. Tanahashi then lets off slowly, only to kick low! Tanahashi headlocks, Goto powers up, but Tanahashi clamps on tighter. Goto still powers up and out, and he headlocks Tanahashi in return. Tanahashi endures the grind now, then fires body shots. Tanahashi powers up and out, they RAM shoulders, and neither man falls! Tanahashi kicks low, then whips, but Goto turns hip toss into HIP TOSS! Goto runs, and he RUNS Tanahashi over! The fans fire up while Goto stands tall. Goto drags Tanahashi up, CLUBS him on the neck, then brings him around.

Goto CLUBS Tanahashi again, then CLUBS him down. Goto stomps Tanahashi, covers, ONE!! The fans cheer, but Goto clamps onto Tanahashi with a chinlock. Goto digs his knee into Tanahashi’s back, then digs an elbow into Tanahashi’s face. Goto ELBOWS Tanahashi down, then drags him back up. Goto snapmares Tanahashi, then clamps on a headscissors. Goto pushes up to put on the pressure, but Tanahashi endures. The fans rally, Tanahashi bridges back, but Goto powers him back down. Goto puts on the pressure again, but Tanahashi refuses to give up. Tanahashi fights around, crawls over with his legs, and has the ROPEBREAK!

The fans cheer and Goto lets Tanahashi go. Goto stomps Tanahashi, then brings him up. Goto bumps Tanahashi off buckles, then stomps him. Goto stomps a mudhole in, but Tanahashi eggs him on! So Goto CHOPS! Tanahashi fires a flurry of forearms! Goto snarls and ROCKS Tanahashi in return! Goto whips corner to corner, then runs up, but Tanahashi ELBOWS him away! Tanahashi dropkicks Goto’s legs out! Tanahashi goes up and CROSSBODIES! Direct hit, but no time for air guitar, this is serious business. Tanahashi storms back up on Goto, drags him around and YANKS on the leg! And YANKS again! Then he drops an ELBOW on the knee!

Tanahashi drops another elbow, and then another elbow! Tanahashi pulls on the leg, but Goto fights back with a headlock. Tanahashi twists the foot, but Goto drags himself towards ropes. Goto brings Tanahashi along for the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer and Tanahashi lets go. Tanahashi stomps Goto’s leg, then brings him around. Tanahashi bumps Goto off buckles, then stomps away. Tanahashi puts Goto’s leg in the ropes and pulls! Red Shoes reprimands, then counts, and Tanahashi lets go at 4. Tanahashi “apologizes,” but then he DROPKICKS Goto’s leg! Goto hobbles then falls while the fans fire up.

Red Shoes reprimands but Tanahashi apologizes again. Tanahashi then looms over Goto and grabs the leg. Tanahashi YANKS the leg again, then puts Goto in the corner. Tanahashi stomps away, but Goto fires CHOP after CHOP in return! Tanahashi kicks the bad leg, then storms up on Goto in the corner. Tanahashi stomps Goto, then whips corner to corner. Goto reverses, but Tanahashi BOOTS him away! Tanahashi roars, runs, but Goto follows to LARIAT! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Goto drags Tanahashi up, fires forearm after forearm, then whips corner to corner. Goto runs in, MURAMASA! Then SAIDO! Cover, TWO!

The fans rally as Tanahashi stays in this, but Goto shakes out the bad leg. Goto hobbles as he brings Tanahashi up, and he fireman’s carries. But Tanahashi slips free, and he fireman’s carries to steal USHIGOROSHI! The fans fire up as Tanahashi uses one of Goto’s signature moves against him! The fans rally as Goto rises, and Tanahashi runs, to SLING- NO, Goto ducks that, catches Tanahashi, URA GTR! Tanahashi staggers, Goto runs, but into a SLINGBLADE! Both men are down and the fans fire up again! Goto crawls away to one corner, and Tanahashi crawls to the opposite corner. The dueling is strong as ever as both men rise.

Goto runs up, but Tanahashi meets him with a DROPKICK to the leg! Tanahashi runs, but Goto pops him up to a fireman’s carry! USHIGOROSHI! Goto gets payback, but that hurt his already beat up leg! The fans rally harder as Goto rises again. Goto hobbles to the ropes, slaps his leg into working, then waits on Tanahashi. Goto powers up to BUZZ- NO, Tanahashi blocks the kick! DRAGON SCREW! Tanahashi holds on to GROUND DRAGON SCREW! And then REVERSE GROUND SCREW! Then a SPLASH onto the legs! Goto writhes but Tanahashi snarls, and the fans fire up again! Tanahashi ties Goto up in the TEXAS CLOVERHOLD!

Goto endures as Tanahashi stands over him! Goto crawls towards ropes, all of Chaos coaching him on! But Tanahashi drags Goto away from the ropes! Tanahashi sits deep on the hold, and the fans rally as hard as they can! Goto endures, and Yoshi-Hashi is there to coach him on! Goto fights forward, and has the ROPEBREAK! Tanahashi lets go in frustration, but he stands over Goto again. Tanahashi drags Goto up, reels him in, and half nelsons! Then full nelsons! But Goto breaks that, only to end up in a STRAITJACKET- NO, Goto fights the lift! Goto breaks the straitjacket, too! Only for Tanahashi to SLINGBLADE again!

But Goto rises right back up! So Tanahashi SLINGBLADES again! Cover, TWO!! Goto survives and the fans are thunderous! Tanahashi storms over to the corner and climbs up top! Goto stands, but Tanahashi hits the HIGH FLY ATTACK! And then Tanahashi goes right back up! HIGH FLY FLOP as Goto moves! Both men are down and the fans rally up again! Goto drags himself up with the ropes while Tanahashi is down at center. Goto hobbles over, drags Tanahashi up, but Tanahashi snatches the leg! DRAGON SCREW! TEXAS CLOVER- NO, Goto drags Tanahashi into a cradle! TWO!! Tanahashi escapes and both men have to catch their breath.

Tanahashi crawls back over to Goto, sits him up, but Goto fires a shot first! Tanahashi gives that forearm back! Goto fires another forearm, so Tanahashi fires back! The forearms go back and forth, faster and faster, and then Goto ROCKS Tanahashi! Goto CLUBS Tanahashi! Goto HEADBUTTS, HEADBUTTS, and HEADBUTTS! Goto HEADBUTTS Tanahashi until Tanahashi drops to his knees! Goto stands Tanahashi up, but Tanahashi SHOTEIS! Tanahashi roars, runs, but into a fireman’s carry! G T W!!! Cover, TWO!!! Tanahashi survives again, but Goto just drags him back up! Dragon sleeper, but Tanahashi drops down! Victory roll, TWO!!

Goto escapes, and he hurries to get Tanahashi up! He blocks the Shotei to HEADBUTT! Tanahashi drops to his knees, then slumps forward! The fans are thunderously dueling as Goto drags Tanahashi back up. Dragon sleeper, and true G- NO, Tanahashi hits a TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT!?! Tanahashi drags Goto up to TWIST ‘N’ SHOUT!! Tanahashi stands Goto up again, but Goto fights the hattrick! SHOTENKAI!!! Cover, TWO!?!? Tanahashi survives and Ota City is erupting! Goto rises, the fans duel as hard as they have all night, and Goto powers up! BUZZSAW!! Then Goto drags Tanahashi up, dragon sleepers, and G T R!!! Cover, GOTO WINS!!!

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

The Ace gave it everything he had, but so did The Fierce Warrior! Master Wato slides in and checks on Tanahashi while Chaos helps Goto. Tanahashi’s last NJPW Anniversary Show was an instant classic, but it was also his defeat. But is this truly his last shot at the world title?

As for Goto, he grabs the mic and goes to a corner. “Tanahashi-san. If it wasn’t for you… I probably would’ve won this title earlier. Yeah, I’ve thought that way before. But the truth is, if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be here now.” The fans applaud that. Goto says, “Please keep shining brightly until the very end.” The fans also applaud that. Goto thanks Tanahashi, and the two shake hands. The fans cheer as they hug it out, and then Goto hands the mic to Tanahashi. The fans cheer Tanahashi on, and he says, “Just this… GOTO~! I’m counting on you.” The fans applaud again, and Tanahashi continues.

“From this day forward, the relationship between Hontai and Chaos will evolve. Members of Hontai and Chaos, please come to the ring.” The fans are intrigued, but then Tanahashi looks around. “Where is everyone?” Well… Oh, here come Makabe, Kojima, Tiger Mask and more. Yano also hops off commentary so that he can join his team. The fans cheer as Despy leans on ELP rather literally. Tanahashi tells Goto, “Please lead NJPW to even greater heights.” Tanahashi hands the mic back to Goto, and Goto looks at everyone else. “Tanahashi-san. Leave it to me! I’ll be the one leading NJPW forward!” The fans cheer that!

Goto says Nagata should come up here, too. The fans cheer as Yuji Nagata also leaves commentary to stand with the combined Chaos-Hontai forces. Blue Justice stands face to face with the Fierce Warrior, and Goto says, “Staying true to my word, let’s battle for this belt!” The fans cheer that! Nagata takes the mic to say, “Goto, that was a hell of a match> That makes challenging you even more enticing.” They shake hands, and it is now official! Goto continues to say, “The Goto Revolution has only just begun. Here’s to 53 years and more of NJPW!” With that, the golden streamers fly, and everyone in the ring celebrates this moment.

We also get a photo op of this now Chaos-Hontai super group all together. Is this consolidation of stars the true future of NJPW? What more is in store as NJPW moves into Year 54?

My Thoughts:

A great Anniversary Event, even though I did skip a few things. Chase & Fale win over Ryohei & Hartley as Chase and Ryohei will meet in the New Japan Cup, and the go-home math now favors Ryohei winning that tournament match. LIJ got a very good win over The House of Torture, but perhaps that’s because Evil wins against Yota Tsuji in the Cup. It could lead to bigger showdowns in the Cup where the House of Torture and War Dogs battle it out. Gabe & Drilla getting the drop on Ren & Kanemaru was great, but given how both sides operate, a Double Count-out Draw is a fitting choice so that you can’t be sure who wins in the Cup.

Of course Sanada’s team got another Eddie Guerrero style disqualification, with him framing Yuya Uemura for a guitar attack. Similarly, Sanada has momentum going into his match with Yuya in the Cup, so there’s a chance Yuya gets revenge by winning then. ELP had a fun promo with Jado to start off the Open Challenge, and a great showing from Wato in the match. But naturally, ELP wins to keep his reign going, and I can’t wait to see who else answers the Open Challenge.

Desperado VS Akira was an awesome match, perhaps Akira’s best singles match, and it’s a little surprising that Akira debuts new gear and a new nickname only to lose. Desperado is still going strong as champion, and possibilities are endless for who could challenge him next. Goto VS Tanahashi was also awesome, really building on what we’ve seen from both men over their careers, including matches against each other. But with Tanahashi on his retirement tour, he of course put Goto over and basically gave Goto the best first defense he could have.

And I really like where things seem to be going. Hontai fusing with Chaos, or at least having a true alliance, is some fun stuff. And it makes up for how some major members of Chaos have either left (like Okada) or are more active outside of Japan (like Rocky Romero). Goto VS Nagata is also going to be a really good match, now set for March 15th in the middle of the New Japan Cup. That’ll be another solid defense for Goto before he faces whoever wins the tournament.

My Score: 9/10