This ain’t no joke!

With just weeks left before Stand & Deliver, Trick Williams is after Oba Femi and the NXT Championship. But will Trick get his rematch?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Zaria w/ Sol Ruca VS Lash Legend w/ Jakara Jackson; Zaria wins and advances to Stand & Deliver.
• Hank ‘n’ Tank VS Myles Borne & Tavion Heights w/ No Quarter Catch Crew; Myles & Heights win.
• NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Kelani Jordan VS Roxanne Perez; Kelani wins and advances to Stand & Deliver.
• NXT North American Championship: Shawn Spears w/ The Culling VS Ricky Saints; Saints wins and becomes the new NXT North American Champion.

PLAY BY PLAY

Stephanie Vaquer is here!

The fans cheer for La Primera as she makes her way to the ring, still the NXT Women’s Double Champion! NXT General Manager, Ava, is there to meet her, and she says, “Ever since Stephanie has stepped foot in NXT, she has shown everyone exactly why she is La Primera.” The fans cheer, and Ava says after walking out victorious last week, that shows exactly the caliber Stephanie is. However, given the depth of the NXT Women’s Division, both titles deserve to be defended frequently. The two have put a lot of thought into this, and felt it was not fair for her to continue to do this alone.

The fans boo, but Ava says the decision has been made: Stephanie will relinquish the Women’s North American Championship. The fans boo more, but Ava says a new champion will be decided at Stand & Deliver in a Six Woman Ladder Match, and the qualifiers begin tonight. The fans chant “NO! NO! NO!” but Vaquer assures them she understands that this is not a popular decision. But NXT has given her an opportunity to do the same for everyone else. She really wants to push her NXT Women’s Division, not stop it. The fans do cheer that, and sing “OLE~, OLE OLE OLE~! OLE~, OLE~!”

Vaquer says tonight, she will give up the North American title. But under one condition: She gets to pick who she faces at Stand & Deliver for THE NXT Women’s Championship. The fans like that! Wait, here comes Jordynne Grace! The Juggernaut tells Stephanie that she’s sorry she keeps interrupting, but she’s happy to hear Stephanie gets to choose her opponent. Now that Jaida’s out of the picture, Jordynne and Stephanie can focus on the match everyone has really been looking forward to. For the first time ever on NXT’s biggest stage, Juggernaut VS La Primera. But wait, here comes Miss Parker!

Jaida says hear that? See, Jordynne, “Miss Muscle Mommy,” Jaida being out of the picture is insane. But if Jordynne actually stayed down where Jaida left her ass last time, Jaida would’ve beaten Stephanie, and she’d be here with the NXT Women’s Championship around her little ol’ waist. But Stephanie, baby, it was that close, and we all know it. But go ahead, call your shot. Because when they run this bac- Jordynne interrupts Jaida, and says she had her opportunity. Jaida called her shot, and she fumbled. Now, Jaida may not understand how championships work, seeing as how she’s never held one before…

But Jaida is going to the back of the line. Vaquer says it looks like these two need to work this out. And so the two start throwing shots! Jaida shoves, Jordynne dodges, and then Jordynne puts Jaida on the apron! Jordynne DECKS Jaida, but here comes security! Only for Jordynne to DECK one, and TOSS the other out onto the rest! The fans go nuts as the Juggernaut warns Jaida to watch herself! Jaida says nobody’s scared of Jordynne! Will these two throw down to then move on to Stand & Deliver?

Trick Williams speaks.

Over the weekend, Trick put on his Instagram, “LET’S TALK ABOUT IT OBA,” accompanied by a video. “Yo, what’s good, Oba? I mean, I already made the challenge, boy, but you ain’t hear me? I had Timbs all up in my face, I know you saw it. I ain’t no little punk like Je’Von that you can just throw around, you know where to find me: On Tuesday in the ring so we can talk about my NXT title, Stand & Deliver. Let’s talk about it.”

Backstage interview with Oba Femi.

Sarah Schreiber catches the NXT Champion as he’s arriving and asks about Trick’s post calling Oba out, claiming Oba doesn’t respect him. Oba says he doesn’t care what Trick said, because Trick is not the champion, OBA IS. Oba does not answer to Trick, Trick answers to Oba. Trick waits on Oba. Tonight, Trick gets Oba’s final verdict, and finds out the hard way why you don’t call out The Ruler. Oba moves on, what will he have to say to the former champion?

The NXT Women’s Division talks.

After that big announcement from Ava, Arianna Grace says she would do this, but ladder matches are dangerous. Fallon Henley says no one cares what Arianna thinks. She is ready to qualify and get her title back. She and Jazmyn Nyx high-five, but Lola Vice says no one wants Fallon as champ again. This is Lola’s opportunity. Cora Jade says like Lola would know what to do with that title, other than shake her ass with it. The locker room gets real fired up now! But who will put money where their mouths are and head for Las Vegas?

NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Zaria w/ Sol Ruca VS Lash Legend w/ Jakara Jackson!

With just three Tuesdays left before WrestleMania Weekend, it is time to shuffle the deck and deal out the opportunities. Will the Agent of Change be the first to punch her ticket? Or will the Bougie Bully make her pump the brakes?

The bell rings and Zaria circles with Lash. They tie up, go around, and end up on the ropes. Then they move off the ropes, break, and the fans cheer the stare down. Lash and Zaria tie up again, Lash waistlocks and SLAMS! Lash styles on Zaria, eggs her on, and puts up the hand for a knuckle lock. Zaria obliges, they go shoulder to shoulder for a Test of Strength, and Zaria bends Lash back! Lash fights up to bend Zaria back! Zaria powers up again, and the fans fire up as she roars! Lash gets under to BACKDROP! Cover, ONE!! Lash stands Zaria up to whip her to ropes. Zaria slips around to crucifix but Lash stays up!

Zaria shifts to a sunset flip, but Lash stays up to YANK Zaria up! Zaria CHOPS Lash! Lash frowns and CHOPS back! The fans fire up for that one! Zaria CHOPS, Lash swings, but Zaria dodges to jump on! Lash fights the Guillotine, but she drops to a knee! Lash powers up again to lift and put Zaria on the apron! Zaria RAMS into Lash, then slingshots up and over to sunset flip! TWO! Lash hurries up, but Zaria scoops! Lash slips free, scoops Zaria, and SLAMS her! Lash then runs, but Zaria avoid the elbow drop! Zaria returns, but Lash dodges the elbow drop! Lash kips up and the fans fire up! But Zaria kips, not quite as clean.

Lash clamps onto Zaria’s neck, Zaria returns the favor! Lash fires KNEE after KNEE, then CHOKE- NO, Zaria victory rolls it! TWO, and Lash PUMP KICKS Zaria out of the ring! Jakara talks trash, but Sol storms up to back her off. Lash storms out to back Jakara up, and NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and Zaria endures a bearhug! Zaria fights free, runs, but Lash ROCKS her! Zaria leans on the ropes, Lash drags her up to torture rack. Zaria endures the backbreaker stretch, even as Lash puts on the pressure. Zaria pries at the grip, Lash THROWS her, but Zaria lands out! Lash dodges Zaria’s lariat, and then DOUBLE LARIATS take both women down! The fans fire up for “NXT! NXT!” while the ref checks Lash and Zaria. They both rise up, and Zaria fires a haymaker! Lash fires back! Zaria fires another! Lash fires back! The shots keep going, Zaria gets the edge, and she brings Lash around, but Lash THROWS Zaria down!

Lash and Zaria are both running low on energy, but Lash gets Zaria up. Zaria fights the suplex, but so does Lash! They fight for control, and ZARIA suplexes up and over! Lash goes to a corner, Zaria runs in to LARIAT! Zaria whips corner to corner but Lash reverses. Lash runs up, but into a BOOT! Zaria hops up, Lash stands, Zaria CROSSBODIES! But Lash catches her! SWINGING BACKBREAKER! And then Lash reels Zaria in, but Zaria RANAS free of the bomb! Then she BOOTS Lash! And GERMAN SUPLEXES! The fans fire up while Lash flounders up. Zaria runs up, but Lash hurdles!

Zaria hotshots off ropes, Lash grabs her by the neck! SLAM DUNK CHOKE SLAM! Cover, TWO!?! Zaria survives, Jakara is frustrated, but the fans know “This is Awesome!” Lash hauls Zaria up, gets her in the Bow ‘n’ Arrow Rack, LASH EX- NO, Zaria lands out to fireman’s carry! DELTA- NO, Lash slips free, shoves, but Zaria dodges the boot! SPEAR!! Zaria fireman’s carries again, DELTA FORCE! Cover, Zaria wins!

Winner: Zaria, by pinfall (advances to Stand & Deliver)

It was a clash of titans, but Zaria just hit the jackpot! Will Zaria now rise above and claim the Women’s North American Championship for her own?

Josh Briggs & Yoshiki Inamura watch backstage.

They’re both impressed by that match, and Zaria moving on to Stand & Deliver, that’s Inamura’s dream. Briggs says they’ll get there, he promises. Wes Lee walks in with Tyriek Igwe & Tyson Dupont, and they all mock Briggs, “We’re gonna get there!” Lower your expectations. Take it from someone who’s actually won at Stand & Deliver. Briggs asks Wes who he thinks he is talking to, and Wes says he’s talking to them! Wes literally broke his back carrying this brand, so he’ll talk to whoever however he wants. Briggs says Wes ain’t tough! Inamura steps up and says he used to like how Wes Lee wrestled.

Wes doesn’t get what Inamura’s talking about. Inamura says Wes used to have honor. But tonight, Wes and Inamura will fight. Wes says he has honor. He’ll honor that request. But just like those Stand & Deliver pipe dreams, Inamura needs to prepare for disappointment. The Wes Side heads out, will the Cardiac Kid learn what it is to feel the Great Rush?

Kelani Jordan speaks with Ava.

Kelani says history will repeat itself in Las Vegas. She climbed to the top of that ladder to become the inaugural champion, and she plans on doing it again. This is actually perfect- Roxanne Perez interrupts and says this is perfect for her. Wait, Roxie agrees? Yes! Absolutely! At Stand & Deliver, when Roxie is on top of the ladder and brings down that title, she’ll be the first woman to have won everything in NXT. Kelani says yeah, we get it, Roxie. You’re great. But over Kelani’s dead body will she be another stepping stone in the story book of Roxie. Roxie had her shine, and Kelani doesn’t care how she does it, she’ll get hers.

It doesn’t matter if Kelani has to take it from Roxie, but that’ll make it even better. Wow! Kelani finally grew a spine. But guess what? “The Prodigy” and “History maker” are synonymous here, so even with that new attitude, Kelani- Ava says no, it’s only going to be one of them in that ladder match, as they’re facing each other in tonight’s second qualifier. Well, that’s even more perfect! Roxie heads out, but will The Prodigy be one step closer to completing NXT Bingo? Or will The Standout stand tall over the most accomplished woman in NXT history?

The D’Angelo Family meets.

They all sit at the table, and The Don asks what they have for him. Luca Crusifino says first up: Dion Lennox. A bit of a puzzle. 6’2″, 248 pounds, came into NXT as a bookworm, but that was just to fool everyone. He was also a former linebacker for Oregon State University, a three-time team captain. And apparently, a snake. Yes, but he’s also got a mouth. Luca was talking with Dion’s former teammates, and turns out he has a temper. Dion even broke a teammate’s jaw for missing a formation. But Dion also has brains, as he has multiple college degrees specializing in psychology. A manipulator who’s also explosive. A powerful combination.

Tony says, “Bookworm Clark Kent my ass.” Luca says it’s clearly how Dion got Dark State together. Who’s next? Osiris Griffin. 6’3″, 280 pounds, former All ACC Defensive Lineman out of Syracuse. 150 tackles in 60 games played, and broke his own QB’s ribs in the Spring Training game. Brash, but not dumb. His high school coach told Luca that Osiris has great instincts for his opponent’s next move. Well, he’s the thinker of the group. But they can tire him out. Next is Cutler James. Adriana Rizzo found he’s a high-level wrestler out of Duke. Tony knew he didn’t like this kid.

But he’s an academic All American with a limitless gas tank. This guy likes breaking his opponent’s will and body. Cutler did Spartan Races, carrying logs on his back running through the mud. Tony gets it, he’s seen that stuff. Swim through ice water, walk on fire. Like a wannabe John Wick or something. Lastly, Stacks has Saquon Shugars. The wild card. A real slick city kid from DC. Wrestled in high school but got his degree from the streets. But that’s not cuz he’s a dummy, he turned down a scholarship to Harvard. Why? Not sure, but Stacks used a lot of connections and favors for this one. The word is, people follow him, they listen.

Out of fear? No, he’s a charmer. He gets people to feel like they’re his best friend since they were in diapers. When he’s done with ’em, he dips and moves on. Then this isn’t just a bunch of meatballs wanting TV time. These are some serious badasses. But here’s what they’ll do. Take the fight to them. Fire with fire! Tony enjoys the enthusiasm, but- Stacks says no, T, they dangerous! Tony says Stacks is letting his temper talk for him. They all want at these guys. But the last time Stacks put together a plan, it didn’t work out so well. So Stacks needs to trust Tony like Tony’s trusted Stacks. Can Stacks trust Tony? Stacks says yeah.

Good. Now, Tony will review all this, and he appreciates the work. Keep it up. The Family heads out, but Stacks still seems worried. Will the Underboss just have to trust the process? Or will Dark State get the better of them again?

Hank ‘n’ Tank talk.

They aren’t really sure this is the change they need to succeed… Zoom out, and they’re wearing Pretty Deadly style crop tops! Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say of course this will work! Look at them! As former NXT and NXT UK Tag Team Champions, Pretty Deadly know what it takes. To be stars, you gotta look like stars! Because the stars are bright, they shine! #YesBoy! Hank ‘n’ Tank do the Scott Hall fingers like Pretty Deadly, and Elton says if you want to be “The Team,” you need to BE the team! Just like how you can’t just say “Honk Honk,” you gotta FEEL the Honk Honk! That’s tag team wrestling! FEEL IT! FEEL IT!

Hank does feel something. Does Tank feel it? No Quarter Catch Crew walks by to see this, and Tavion Heights says he feels Hank ‘n’ Tank are about to get their asses kicked. Myles Borne adds, “Again.” NQCC heads out, Hank ‘n’ Tank throw the crop tops off. Elton says you can lead a horse to water but can’t make it drink. Pretty Deadly is still confident in Hank ‘n’ Tank, but will the big belly boys go the distance with Myles & Heights?

The Culling speaks.

Niko Vance says, “Anger, rage, aggression. To much of the world, those are glaring negatives. But not to you. You were the first to see that it was a strength of mine.” Brooks Jensen says, “Finding true purpose and meaning in life, you gave me the roadmap to my new life. So now, you gotta retrace your steps and find victory tonight.” Izzi Dame says, “You brought us all together, and look at us now. We’re a family. Four equal legs of a chair, but it’s all in support of you and your efforts tonight as North American Champion, representing The Culling.”

Shawn Spears says, “I’d like to use the cliche of how much I truly admire each and every one of you and your unique skillsets, but you’re all aware of how much I cherish you all. Tonight, those skills and those traits that I’ve passed along to you, that we’ve passed along to each other, I’ll use to vanquish Ricky Saints.” The Chair Man is ready for the main event, but will he be ready for the Absolute Revolution?

Hank ‘n’ Tank VS Myles Borne & Tavion Heights w/ No Quarter Catch Crew!

The pursuit for tag team greatness continues, but perhaps Walker & Ledger are trying a little too hard? Will they figure out what works for them? Or will they get no quarter from Myles & Heights tonight?

The teams sort out, Tank and Myles start, and the fans rally up. They circle, tie up, and Myles headlocks. Tank powers up and out, RAMS shoulders with Myles, and the fans cheer. Myles shoots in, waistlocks then headlocks, then wrenches and YANK the arm. Tag to Heights, Myles whips Tank to ropes then drop toeholds him, with Heights right on Tank for a headlock! The fans cheer that quick combo, but Tank endures the hold. Tank fights up, pries the hold open, but Tavion fires a body shot. Tavion whips Tank to a corner, but Tank goes up and over to CROSSBODY! Tank bumps Tavion off buckles, tags Hank, and the fans rally.

Hank ‘n’ Tank whip, doubloe kick, and DOUBLE AX HANDLE! Then they stomp the hands, “Yes Boy~!” Myles runs up but Hank CLOBBERS him! “Yes Boy~!” Hank ‘n’ Tank then run, SPLASH LEG DROP COMBO! The fans fire up, Hank dodges Tavion to then LARIAT in the corner! Hank runs side to side, tags Tank, then back body blocks Tavion! Snapmare and HONK HONK, BIG BELLY SANDWICH! Cover, TWO! Tank clamps onto Tavion with a facelock, Hank tags in, and Hank goes up to AX HANDLE the arm! Hank brings Tavion around, whips, but Tavion reverses. Hank ducks the lariat, Myles tags in, but Tavion swings agian!

Hank dodges, then he DUMPS Tavion out! Tavion holds onto the bottom rope, Myles LARIATS Hank up and out! Tank protests, the ref keeps him back, but that lets Tavion beat up on Hank! Tavion SMACKS Hank off the apron, puts him in for Myles, and Myles UPPERCUTS! Myles CLUBS Hank, UPPERCUTS again, then tags Tavion. They whip Hank to then LARIAT! Cover, TWO! Hank stays in this, but Tavion stays on him. Tavion drags Hank up, whips, and LARIATS Hank against the ropes! Tavion says one more time, and he whips Hank again. LARIAT on the ropes, Tavion covers, TWO! The fans rally while Tavion clamps on with a chinlock.

Hank endures, fights up, and the fans rally again. Hank fires body shots, reaches out, but Tavion rolls Hank! TWO, and Hank dodges! Hot tag to Tank! Tank rallies on Tavion, BLASTS Myles, and LARIATS Tavion! LARIAT again and Tank fires up! The fans are with Tank, he dodges Tavion to SNAP BELLY2BELLY! Tank dodges Myles to go up, out, and ROCK him! Then he LARIATS Myles into the ring! The fans fire up as Tank fires up, slingshot SPALSH! Tavion runs up, Tank dodges to go up, up and FLYING SHOULDER TACKLE! The fans fire up, Tank drags Tavion up for a FISHERMN SPINEBUSTER! Cover, Myles breaks it!

The fans are torn, but here comes Hank! Hank ROCKS Myles with haymaker after haymaker! Hank TOSSES Myles out, then says, “Yes Boy~!” with Tank! Tank hauls Tavion up, Hank runs, but Myles is back! DROPKICK! Hank falls out of the ring, Tavion fireman’s carries Tank! Tag to Myles, and they hit the DEATH VALLEY DDT! Cover, NQCC wins!

Winners: Myles Borne & Tavion Heights, by pinfall

Hank ‘n’ Tank had this, until they tried to do things like another team. Will they ever sort out what their style is? Will NQCC grab the NXT Tag Team Championships before they do?

Trick Williams heads to the ring!

The fans chant “Whoop Dat Trick!” while Booker T adds his usual commentary, “Aw yeah, man~!” Trick goes right to the ring, he grabs the mic, and Trick says let’s be clear. Last week, he called Oba out, and he ain’t heard from Oba since. But Oba, don’t get it twisted. Even if you are NXT Champion, Trick is still the man! Trick’s been the man ever since he decided to be his own man. Trick fought for this! Trick sacrificed for this! And he lost a brother for this. Trick did all that just to make this to the Whoop Dat Era! Trick did all that just to make this the Trick Williams Show. This may be on CW, but don’t get it twisted, tonight you tune into the TW! Oba, Trick IS HIM!

The fans cheer for that, and Trick says all this comes at a cost. Trick feels all the hate. Y’all don’t want him to shine? Y’all don’t want him to be the dawg? Y’all don’t want him to return to the top? He gets it now. But wait! Je’Von Evans is here! And the Young OG tells Trick no no no. Trick says don’t come out here interrupting. Trick gets why Je’Von is upset and all, but hey. That is just collateral damage. This is Stand & Deliver Season, it is time for the grown folks to talk. Je’Von says he ain’t gonna lie, he was trippin’ about what Trick did last week. But then Je’Von finally realized something. Je’Von truly understands Trick now.

Je’Von wants to ask Trick a question: When did Trick know it was his time? Sounds familiar, right? Je’Von gets it, because this time last year, Trick was Je’Von. When Trick Willy wanted the title, he became NXT’s golden child. That sounds familiar, too, don’t it? Yeah? And just like Trick, Je’Von wants that number one spot. But the difference between them is… Je’Von doesn’t need to break out of someone’s shadow to get to that spot. Je’Von’s ready right now. Trick says the crazy thing is, Je’Von is in Trick’s shadow right now! What does Je’Von know about being champion, dawg? About selling tickets? Doing media? Having the brand on your back? Je’Von can’t relate!

What does Je’Von know about being The A Champion? Winning a title is great, but carrying the title and defending the title, those are a whole ‘nother ball game. And Je’Von can’t hold that title like Trick can! Trick is one of one, believe that! Oh, one of one? Hmm… Trick says he’s The A Champion? Hmm… “Trick, you don’t know who the hell you is, do you? Bruh, you ain’t Trick Williams. You Carmelo Hayes.” UH OH! Je’Von says yeah, he went there. And it makes sense. Because everything that Trick is telling Je’Von right now, was everything Melo was telling Trick a year ago. And if you ask Je’Von, that makes Trick a hypocrite!

So if Trick is gonna try and water Je’Von down just to make himself feel better, since he wants to talk about it, Je’Von has done something that no one has done, including Trick. That’s drop Oba Femi! But wait! Here comes Oba now! Oba tells Je’Von to do a favor and say that nonsense to his face! Je’Von really thinks he did something that matters? Oh, congratulations, you got a lucky shot! Never again! Je’Von says stop playing like he ain’t got your number. Did anyone forget about Deadline? Cuz at Deadline, if we’re checking history, Je’Von only needed one more second to change history. Only one more second.

And then Oba wouldn’t have beat Trick for the title, cuz Je’Von would’ve had it. As a matter of fact, Je’Von will drop Oba again to become NXT Champion in Vegas! Trick says better luck next year, kid. Oba tells Trick that he’s talked enough! The champion is here, it is his turn to speak. As for Je’Von, when Oba looks at him, all Oba sees is a small boy with big aspirations and dreams. And while he might be the future, Je’Von’s success will not be at the expense of The Ruler at Stand & Deliver. Because whether Je’Von likes it or not, he lives in the present! He lives in the now, and the now belongs to OBA FEMI.

Trick says yeah, that’s what he’s talking ’bout. Stand & Deliver Season, NXT Championship, Oba VS Trick. And for the last time, Je’Von, please excuse yourself. Je’Von steps up and asks, “Or what?” But Oba holds Je’Von back with one hand and tells Trick that if Trick spent less time talking, maybe he’d still be champion. But he’s not. And clearly, both men want their shot at the championship… Wait! Ava is here to say she’s seen this before. There is only one way that this will end. Stand & Deliver, Oba will defend the NXT Championship against Trick Williams… AND Je’Von Evans in a Triple Threat! Je’Von likes that! But then Trick DECKS him!

Oba turns Trick around to ROCK him with haymakers! These two brawl, Oba LARIATS Trick up and out! Oba is fired up, but OH NO! DARK STATE IS HERE! Osiris, Saquon, Cutler & Dion storm down from the bleachers, and they mug Oba 4v1! Je’Von gets up, but he just gets added to the hit list! CATAPUT DOUBLE BACKDROP for the Young OG! And a BOOT from Osiris to Oba! Trick storms into the ring, and he looks at all four goons. Trick fires hands but he gets mugged 4v1! They stand Trick up, and hit him with the QUAD BOMB!! Dark State strikes, #NoOneIsSafe!

Andre Chase visits NXT Medical.

Mr. Chase says he can’t take any deep breaths, has a limited range of motion, and the doc says Chase clearly suffered a cracked rib in the match with Ethan Page. And he knows Chase wants a timeline on his return, but there’s no telling with cracked ribs. Does Chase have a ride home? Chase says he’s all alone. But then Kale Dixon & Uriah Connors walk in. They tell him he’s not alone. They’ve got him! They even brought a wheelchair. Chase appreciates that and accepts the help. Chase says they’re not so bad after all. But then look out, there’s chaos going on! Jaida and Jordynne are brawling through the back!

Jaida RAMS Jordynne into the garage door, the refs tell her to back off and Jaida says okay, she’s good. But then Jaida runs up! Jordynne dodges, the Hip-Notic hits the door! Jordynne jumps on for a SLEEPER! More refs hurry over, these two are pulled apart, but will they not stop until one of them stays down?

Fraxiom cross paths with Hank ‘n’ Tank.

Nathan Frazer tells them that whatever they had going for them, they clearly lost it. Axiom asks Frazer why he’s so rude. Frazer says c’mon, they can’t lie to them. Well, okay, but at least be supportive. What’s not supportive about telling them the truth? And the truth is, they’re just embarrassing themselves. Axiom says fine, here’s some truth. While Fraxiom may have the tag titles, Axiom does wish they had a friendship more like Hank ‘n’ Tank. Frazer says wow, okay. Hank ‘n’ Tank say “thanks” for the pep talk, then they move on. And then in step Brad Baylor & Ricky Smokes, aka Swipe Right.

Brad says he knows they haven’t met, but they make proper introductions. And the deal is, they’re kinda the hottest new thing via WWE Evolve. And when they look at Fraxiom, they see them as their Hardy Boyz. See, Swipe Right runs Evolve, Fraxiom runs NXT, so Swipe Right just wants to see how they measure up. #Hundos! Frazer says he and his amigo don’t back down from a challenge, so you’re on. Nice! And Fraxiom must crush it with the ladies with those accents, right? Oh, speaking of ladies, Roxie passes by. Brad says there is a lot of “talent” here. Roxie may be a Prodigy, but she’s also a smoke show. Ricky says that’s hundo for sho’, bro bro.

Swipe Right tells Fraxiom, “See you next week.” Brad & Ricky head out, but are they really ready to evolve into NXT stars so soon? Or will Frazer & Axiom show them that they need a little more time to level up?

NXT Women’s North American Championship Ladder Match Qualifier: Kelani Jordan VS Roxanne Perez!

The inaugural NXT Women’s North American Champion battles the most accomplished woman in NXT history, and this alone could be the title match. But only one moves on, so who leaves the other behind to Stand & Deliver?

The bell rings, the two tie up, and they go around. Kelani pushes Roxie back but Roxie puts her in the corner. Roxie goes up the corner, the ref counts, but Roxie lets off the collar ‘n’ elbow. But Kelani shoves Roxie down! Roxie comes back, Kelani wrenches and headlocks to hit a takeover. Roxie headscissors and pushes up for pressure, only for Kelani to headscissor back! Roxie headscissors again, but then so does Kelani! Roxie moves around, jackknife bridges, TWO as Kelani bridges up! Kelani turns things around, but Roxie trips Kelani up! Cover, ONE, and Kelani sweeps! Cover, ONE, and Roxie kips up!

Kelani kips up smooth, the fans fire up, and Roxie is annoyed. The two reset, but NXT goes to break.

NXT returns and the fans duel. Roxie headlocks Kelani, but Kelani powers up and out. Roxie throws Kelani down by her hair! The fans are torn, Roxie runs, but Kelani does the splits! Roxie cartwheels over and then takes a bow. Kelani is annoyed, and she blocks the haymaker to trap an arm! Kelani then slaps the other arm, and she SLAPS Roxie! The fans fire up, Kelani runs up and SLINGSHOT ARM-DRAGS! Roxie tumbles, Kelani DROPKICKS her to a corner! Kelani has Roxie on the apron, then in the ropes for a KNEE SMASH, and a POMMEL LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Roxie stays in this and Kelani grows frustrated.

Kelani stalks Roxie to ropes, drags her back in, but Roxie has the apron skirt! The ref counts, Roxie lets go, and while the ref is busy with the apron skirt, Roxie CLAWS Kelani’s eyes! The fans are torn, but Roxie then POSTS Kelani! Kelani flops to the apron, Roxie goes out the other side, and she has Kelani through the corner! Roxie stands on the arm, then DOUBLE STOMPS it!! Kelani writhes but this is the way Roxie beat Jordynne Grace, so why not do it to Kelani? Roxie drops KNEES on the bad arm, the fans duel more, and Kelani crawls to ropes. Roxie stomps and kicks away, but the ref counts. Roxie stops at 4 to then stand on Kelani!

The ref counts again, Roxie steps off, and then JUMP STOMPS! Cover, TWO! Kelani stays in this but Roxie is almost amused. Roxie goes after Kelani in the corner, and wraps the bad arm around ropes! Roxie pulls and YANKS on the arm, then soaks up the cheers and jeers. Roxie drags Kelani up, hammerlocks the arm, and she RAMS Kelani into buckles! The fans duel while Kelani flounders, but Roxie hammerlocks the arm again. Roxie whips, Kelani reverses and sends Roxie into buckles! Kelani reels Roxie into a cradle, TWO! Roxie runs up, goes for the arm, but then waistlocks. Kelani switches, O’Conner Rolls, TWO!

Kelani is sent into buckles again! Roxie storms up on Kelani, grabs the arm, and shoves Kelani down so she can stand on the shoulder! Kelani endures, but Roxie turns her over to KNEE- NO, Kelani avoids the knee drop! Roxie hobbles, and Kelani fires body shots! Kelani ROCKS Roxie, ROCKS her again, then ROCKS her again! Kelani whips, Roxie reverses and UPPERCUTS the bad arm! Roxie wrenches and KNEES the bad arm! Then she hammerlocks the arm, and NORTHERN LIGHTS! Kelani writhes, Roxie covers, TWO! Kelani toughs it out and Roxie seethes, but NXT goes picture in picture.

Roxie stalks Kelani, drags her up, and SMACKS her off the mat! Roxie CLUBS the bad arm, then kneels on the shoulder to pull on it! Kelani endures, so Roxie YANKS back on the arm! Cover, TWO!! Kelani is still in this, but Roxie stays on her with a chicken wing armlock! Kelani endures, fights around, but Roxie slips around to hammerlock. Kelani reaches back to FLYING-MARE! Roxie tumbles into a corner, Kelani runs in, but Roxie puts her on the apron! Roxie then HOTSHOTS the bad arm! Kelani slumps down on the apron, but Roxie drags her back through the corner. Roxie stands on Kelani’s hand, but Kelani TRIPS Roxie!

Kelani crawls away, Roxie pursues, but Kelani ROCKS Roxie! Roxie ROCKS Kelani! Kelani ROCKS Roxie again! Roxie ROCKS Kelani again! The forearms keep going, but Kelani gets the edge! Kelani whips, then CLOBBERS Roxie! And CLOBBERS her again! Cartwheel BACK ELBOW! Kelani kips up and she storms up on Roxie. Kelani reels Roxie in, but Roxie wrenches and WRINGS the arm! Then she SHOTGUNS Kelani down! Kelani flounders out of the ring, but Roxie builds speed! Roxie DIVES, and down goes Kelani at the ramp! Roxie hurries to drag Kelani up and into the ring! Roxie points to the belt and says that’s already hers.

Roxie storms up to the apron, but Kelani DROPKICKS her down again! Kelani aims, and she TORNILLO PLANCHAS! Down goes Roxie! Kelani hurries to put Roxie back in, and she gets moving, SPLASH DOWN! Roxie staggers up, into an X FACTOR! NXT returns to single picture as Kelani covers, TWO!! Roxie survives and Kelani is beside herself! Kelani hauls Roxie up, torture racks her, and the fans duel for the TOWER HACKER- ARM-DRAG from Roxie! Roxie then snatches Kelani, but Kelani fights the takedown! Kelani rolls Roxie up, TWO, and Roxie SOB- NO, Kelani blocks the kick! Step over, WHEEL KICK!

The fans rally as Kelani goes up the corner! ONE OF A KIND- FLOP!! Roxie avoids the RVD style moonsault to handspring and KNEE DROP! Roxie shouts out Meiko Satomura with that one, and she pushes Kelani to a cover, TWO! The fans fire up and Roxie is furious! Roxie tells Kelani that she is NOT on Roxie’s level! Then she SLAPS Kelani! The fans fire up as Kelani scowls. Roxie is worried, and Kelani fires off fast hands! Roxie SOBATS, runs, and hops on, but Kelani pops out the back! Roxie waistlocks, Kelani grabs ropes, and the ref counts. Kelani mule kicks Roxie’s legs! Then Kealni hits a BASEMENT DDT!

Kelani has Roxie in the drop zone! Up, up, and ONE OF A KIND! Cover, KELANI WINS!

Winner: Kelani Jordan, by pinfall (advances to Stand & Deliver)

The Standout takes down The Prodigy, but this was just the first hurdle! Will Kelani become the first-ever TWO-TIME NXT Women’s North American Champion?

Ava meets with Robert Stone & Stevie Turner.

The newly appointed Evolve General Manager tells the NXT General Manager that she apologizes for Swipe Right. Ever since Ava put Stevie in charge, Brad & Ricky have been nothing but a headache every Wednesday. She had no idea they were even showing up tonight. Stone says just deal with them tomorrow night then. For now, we should be talking Stand & Deliver. The Triple Threat for the NXT Championship, a Six Woman Ladder Match for the NEW Women’s North American Champion, and now Vaquer gets to choose her own opponent?! Ava says all of that is great, but her real focus right now is Dark State. We’ve all seen what they’ve done.

If they’re trying to intimidate Ava, that won’t work. They keep saying they don’t wanna wait, then fine. Six Man Tag: Any three of them can compete. But against who? Ava says it’ll be THE main event of Stand & Deliver, Oba, Trick & Je’Von. Wow, okay. That’s huge. But will Oba, Trick & Je’Von even bother working together? Or can they focus on common enemies before fighting each other?

Backstage interview with Ricky Saints.

Sarah Schreiber is with The Absolute, and says he already has his first ever title opportunity here in NXT against Shawn Spears. The last time we saw Ricky, Spears blindsided him in more ways than one. Ricky says c’mon, can’t she see this chiseled jaw? It’s gonna take a lot more than that to put him out. If anything, it lit a fire under him! Spears wants to talk about their history, he wants to bring up their past like Spears knows Ricky? Spears knows nothing, jack! Ricky ain’t worried about no past, only the future, and you’re looking at him! The future says that Ricky’s gonna be dripping with gold tonight!

Spears took a very long time to even taste glory! Meanwhile, Ricky is gonna do it in record time when he marries destiny! Spears and everyone else will really see that The Revolution is indeed televised, because Ricky Saints will be the NEW North American Champion tonight! Ricky heads out, and that main event is next! Will NXT be Absolute?

Zaria & Sol Ruca talk backstage.

Zaria feels good as being the first to qualify for Stand & Deliver, and Sol is proud of her. Zaria knows Sol didn’t become Women’s US Champion, but Zaria would love to have Sol with her at Stand & Deliver. Sol says she’ll definitely be there. Kelani walks by and asks if they saw that. She just beat one of the greatest champions in NXT history! Yeah, they saw, that was awesome. Kelani says she’s already calling her shot. She WILL be Women’s North American Champion again. Zaria says she loves the confidence and all, but not this time. Sol says it is either her or Zaria who become the NEW Women’s North American Champion.

Zaria asks what Sol means by that. Sol says her qualify is next week, didn’t Zaria hear? So they can both go to Vegas together. Kelani says nice people finish last, ain’t that right? Okay, Kelani, just stop. Kelani will not drive a wedge between #ZaRuca. Yeah, not worth her time. Kelani leaves, and Zaria thinks on that new team name Sol just came up with. She doesn’t mind it. Sol knew she’d like it. But will ZaRuca both Stand & Deliver? And what will happen in the ladder match if they do?

Dark State speaks.

Saquon Shugar says, “What? Y’all thought you had it figured out?! Ey, ey, Cutty, talk to they ass!” Cutler James says, “No one knows how Dark State’s gonna move, and no one knows when Dark State’s gonna strike. But there’s one thing you should know: No one is safe.” Dion Lennox shouts, “Ava, you ain’t give us no match! We forced your hand! We got the whole locker room looking over they shoulders, for US!” Osiris says, “Giving us a match against the three top dogs of NXT? That sounds like war to us. But hey, is Tony D gonna be watching?”

Saquon says The D’Angelos can do all they can to find out who Dark State is, but Dark State is real, real simple, man! Four men, one goal, and next week, they taking it all! Will these wild cards trump the Stand & Deliver main event? Or will Oba, Trick & Je’Von make sure to knock down their house of cards?

NXT North American Championship: Shawn Spears w/ The Culling VS Ricky Saints!

Ever since his return to NXT, The Chair Man has been about exposing painful truths and twisting them to fit his goals. But will he continue to sow seeds of discord and reap the rewards? Or will he find he can’t twist an Absolute?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if the past loses to the future!

The bell rings and Spears bails right out. But Saints DIVES! Direct hit into Spears, and then Saints fires off haymakers! The Culling goes running as Saints ROCKS Spears and CHOPS him! Saints CHOPS again, then ROCKS Spears! Spears hurries into the ring, but Saints hurries to fire hands! Saints whips, but Spears grabs ropes to avoid the dropkick! Spears runs, but into Saints’ DROPKICK! The fans fire up, Saints bumps Spears off buckles, and Saints fires off fast hands! The ref counts but Saints DECKS Spears! Spears flounders out of the ring but Saints pursues. Saints is on the apron, and he leaps, but into a kick down low!

Spears reels Saints in, but Saints BACKDROPS free! The fans fire up as Saints knuckle locks, then goes up onto the barrier! Saints gives the fans some Old School up close and personal! The fans fire up as Saints then AX HANDLES Spears down! Saints gets back on the barriers to strut some more, and the fans cheer as he does his pose! Saints is feeling good while NXT goes picture in picture.

Saints drags Spears up, puts him in the ring, and tells The Culling to back off. Saints climbs, but Spears jumps up after him! SUPER OVERHEAD SUPLEX! Saints goes flying, then flounders into the far corner. Spears storms up, rains down fists, then pulls his kneepad down! Spears hoists Saints up to BACKBREAKER! Saints writhes, Spears pulls his kneepad back up, and then Spears goes outside. Saints crawls while Spears repositions the steel steps. Spears then storms back in and TOSSES Saints out! The ref reprimands but Spears goes out to stands Saints up. Saints ROCKS Spears! And ROCKS him again!

Saints whips, Spears reverses, but Saints hops up and over the steps! Then he comes back and leaps off the steps, only for Spears to SUPERKICK him down! Saints flops back, but Spears drags him up and brings him to the steps. BACKBREAKEAR on the steel steps! The ref reprimands but the damage is done! Saints flops to the floor while Spears mocks the pose. Spears then hobbles over to bring Saints back up. Spears puts Saints in the ring, covers, TWO! Saints is tougher than that, but Spears stays calm. Spears drags Saints up and ROCKS him in the lower back! Spears stalks Saints, drags him back up, and ROCKS him again!

NXT returns to single picture, and Spears has Saints up again. But Saints fires a body shot! And a CHOP! And a CHOP! Saints whips, Spears reverses, and Saints hits buckles hard! Saints slumps down but Spears is right on him! Spears rains down fists, then lets off to soak up the heat. The Culling taunt Saints, and Spears scoops for a SLAM! The fans boo while Spears steps back outside. Spears climbs up the corner while The Culling cheers. But saints ROCKS Spears first! Spears ROCKS Saints again, then climbs up to CLUB Spears again and again! Saints brings Spears up, but Spears fires body shots!

Saints ROCKS Spears with forearm after forearm, then tries again. They go to the very top, for a SUPER DUPER JACKHAMMER!! The fans lose their minds, but Saints can’t the cover! Spears crawls away, he and Saints rise, and Spears throws a haymaker! “This is Awesome!” as Saints hits back! The two go back and forth, shot for shot, then Spears CHOPS! Saints CHOPS Spears! And CHOPS again! Saints ROCKS Spears, whips, but Spears reverses. Saints comes back to LARIAT! And LARIAT! Spears tries, Saints dodges and DROPKICKS! Spears goes to a corner, Saints runs in, ELBOW! Saints reels Spears in, TORNADO-

NO, Spears stops the DDT, then runs up, but into a SPINEBUSTER! The fans are thunderous for Saints and he feels that energy! Saints hoists Spears up but Spears fights free! Spears bails out, Saints pursues, but then Spears takes a swing! Saints ducks it, and he reels Spears in for a TORNADO DDT to the floor! The Culling panics, the fans are fired up, but the ring count is climbing! Saints puts Spears in, hurries after him, but Niko gets on the apron! The ref stops Niko, but Izzi slips Spears the title belt! Spears takes aim at Saints! BELT SHOT!! Spears throws the title away, then covers Saints, TWO?!?! Saints survives and Spears is shocked!

The fans are electric while The Culling are in disbelief! Spears seethes as he drags Saints back around. “You made me do this!” Spears drags Saints up, fireman’s carries, but Ricky slips free! Fireman’s carry in return, Saints steals C4!! Jensen gets on the apron, but Saints TOSSES him in! Niko is up, Saints BLASTS him! Saints LARIATS Jensen up and out, then goes out to SPEAR Niko!! Saints is all fired up, and he gets in the ring! Spears takes a swing, Saints dodges, and he SPEARS Spears!! Then a gut wrench and ROSHAMBEAUX!! Cover, SAINTS WINS!!

Winner: Ricky Saints, by pinfall (NEW NXT North American Champion)

Izzi is furious, but she has no choice but to hand over the belt! The Chair Man will now have to accept the painful truth that NXT is Absolute! The fans chant “You Deserve It!” and Ricky nods, but ETHAN PAGE ATTACKS! TWISTED GRIN!! The fans boo as All Ego ruins Ricky’s moment! Ethan smiles as he holds up the belt, will he be the one to Stand & Deliver?

My Thoughts:

A great NXT, and their Stand & Deliver build is clearly going down to the wire here. A little disappointing that Vaquer relinquishes the Women’s North American Championship, but she already made history be becoming the Double Champion and surviving a double header. So now, she will focus on her title, and clearly it is going to be Jordynne Grace for Stand & Deliver. Jordynne and Jaida had great stuff, they’ll have a match, and Jordynne will win to stand out as the clear choice for Vaquer, unless Giulia suddenly returns. This entire WrestleMania Weekend in Vegas is slowly becoming about Triple Threats and bigger (as it should in my opinion), so why not one for the women?

After all, we’re also getting one for the men. Oba, Trick and Je’Von had a very good promo segment, and while it of course became a brawl, Dark State jumping in on it was fitting, too. But with that, there goes my theory that maybe, just maybe, Trick was secretly in charge of Dark State. They mugged him just as bad as the others, so it’s all just the four of them doing this on their own. Good promo from The D’Angelo Family to help the audience understand who Dion, Osiris, Cutler & Saquon are, and regardless of how Dark State VS Oba, Trick & Je’Von goes, we will surely get a Six Man Tag of Dark State VS D’Angelo Family, and that will be a make or break moment for the D’Angelo Family as Stacks and Tony continue to disagree on things.

Back to the Women’s North American Championship, this coming ladder match really is the best move, as we just got some awesome stuff out of qualifiers. When the qualifiers are this great, you can bet the ladder match will be amazing. Kelani getting that win over Roxie was also the right choice, as Roxie doesn’t really need another NXT title reign, she’s basically waiting on the call up. Roxie and Bayley didn’t even get their proper 1v1 feud, that can be a thing soon, and Kelani can move up as a top Heel or something. Good promo from Kelani with Zaria & Ruca, aka ZaRuca. Not a bad team name, it’s very Fraxiom of them.

Speaking of Fraxiom, the tag division is still having a lot of fun. As I hinted at in the report, Hank ‘n’ Tank are still going about this the wrong way. They think being like some other team is the key when they got this far being themselves. And for one, Pretty Deadly is not the team a couple hosses should be mirroring. They lose, which helps NQCC stay afloat as they haven’t done much, and then Hank ‘n’ Tank have that bit with Fraxiom. Fraxiom is again dysfunctional, and perhaps they and Hank ‘n’ Tank will face off for the titles by Stand & Deliver.

I’m very surprised that Swipe Right is getting to be part of Evolve-NXT crossover so soon, but I guess that means they show the most promise. But they’re kinda overdoing the kayfabe of Evolve. Stevie was literally put in charge last week, so she’s only had to deal with Swipe Right for one week. “Every Wednesday” is just ONE Wednesday so far. But that aside, Swipe Right VS Fraxiom will be a very good match to help get Swipe Right some recognition, and perhaps bring interest over to Evolve.

Good promo from Briggs & Inamura with The Wes Side, especially with Inamura stepping up. Inamura VS Wes will be a great match, maybe we get Briggs & Inamura VS Tyriek & Tyson (which also counts as Evolve-NXT crossover now), and who knows if either team gets in on the tag titles for Stand & Deliver. Good promo from The Culling, even if this entire gimmick doesn’t quite fit right. And very good promo from Saints to lead into the main event. That was a great match, the NXT crowd clearly loves Saints, and what a great win for Saints. Sorry, Spears, you’re a transitional champion to Saints VS Page for an even bigger feud of former AEW stars.

My Score: 8.9/10

The final stop on the Euro Tour!

London has another dose of WWE as Monday Night Raw arrives in the O2! But will John Cena tear down the UK like he has everywhere else?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• The New Day VS New Catch Republic; The New Day wins.
• Jimmy Uso VS GUNTHER; Gunther wins.
• Bron Breakker & PENTA VS Finn Balor & Dominik Mysterio w/ Carlito; Finn & Dom win.
• WWE Women’s World Championship, Special Guest Referee Bianca Belair: Iyo Sky VS Rhea Ripley; Double Disqualification, Iyo retains the title.

PLAY BY PLAY

JOHN CENA IS HERE!

The fans already chant “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” before the music even begins! Then they sing along, “JOHN CENA SUCKS~!” as Cena walks out in the custom London merchandise. Cena goes to the ring, “The Last Time Is Now” towel draped over the back of his head like the other times, then he sets the towel on the apron. Cena grabs a mic, the fans continue to duel, and Cena winds up before bringing the mic up. Only for Cody Rhodes to make his entrance! The fans sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” The pyro goes off, Cody high-fives the fans in the front row and along the ramp, then he heads to the ring.

We get the second “WHOA~ OH~” and pyro before Cody pounds on the steel steps and steps up into the ring. Cody and Cena circle each other a bit before Cody grabs himself a mic. The fans finish singing the song, “YOU’LL FOLLOW ME UNTIL THE END~! I AM MY KINGDOM!” The fans cheer, then change to singing, “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” Cena steps to Cody but Cody tells him, no no no. We listened to Cena talking for two weeks, so allow Cody to do his job for him! Cena will cook Cody, end him, but where does he want to start? There is so much to make fun of when it comes to Cody! For starters, Cody’s lisp.

Cody will give him this one: Stardust! Fans cheer for “STARDUST! STARDUST!” Cody says that must bother Cena, that is who he is wrestling at WrestleMania 41, his final time! What else can Cena go after? Oh, yes! Cody spots it in the crowd and brings up the “arm tattoo on his neck.” The fans again sing for “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” Cody keeps going: He got booed in a company he helped make. But Cena won’t go for that. Maybe Cody is struggling with the idea that Superman is truly dead. The fans duel for “Let’s Go, Cena!” “CENA SUCKS!” Cody says this brings him to his next point: Cena’s words have not matched his actions.

For these last two weeks, Cena has lied to the audience. The fans boo, and Cody says they used to ride together, sing Poncho & Lefty. Cena surely cared about Cody, and he for sure cared about the fans. Don’t even look at Cody, look at the fans and tell them the real reason why. The fans chant, “You Sold Out!” while Cena thinks on his words. Cena says he is not going to reduce himself and punch down to Cody’s level. Cody’s been protected long enough. Cena also won’t “cook” Cody, he’ll just BURY him! Just like Cena has buried everyone else! The fans have been saying for years that Cena buries talent. Cena doesn’t bury talent, he IS talent! Cena BURIES mediocrity!

Cena doesn’t give a rat’s ass about the lisp or his failures. Cody has manipulated his way to the top of this business, and his ego outweighs his ability. All Cody has done is ride the coattails of Cena’s success! Cena has been so great, that the WWE could hand the heartbeat of this business to Cena’s chauffer! That’s right! Cody, your champion, is nothing more than Cena’s chauffer. A slimy pickpocket that thinks just cuz he stole the blueprints, he can run the kingdom! That is WHY Cena did it! Because it disgusts him! Cody sat by Cena’s side for YEARS, and stole every secret he needed to be undeniable, but he is still underwhelming.

Cena tried to drill it into Cody’s egotistical skull. Cody has to be authentic because fans can see through phony. Cody is too polished, too rehearsed, and relies on lazy gimmicks like fans singing his name just to get by! The fans boo, but then also sing, “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” Cena says Cody is just like the Pied Piper! All he’s ever done is find a way to make a catchy tune trick the people into loving mediocrity. Strip away the music and entrance, there is not much to look at but that pinstriped suit. But you could walk Cena out in silence, and you can bet your last dollar that he could body you before your first breath!

Cody Rhodes does not look like John Cena, doesn’t act like him, and doesn’t work like him. But Cody also doesn’t look like himself, act like himself, and work like himself, because he is still afraid to show who he is. So what do we get instead? Cody gives us a generic mix of every superstar he’s ever loved and every TV show he’s ever watched, in some big confused blob, that makes him still look like a 16-year-old kid taking acting lessons, because he is too afraid of public speaking. Cody Rhodes has shown Cena ONE thing, and the one thing is that someone mediocre wearing something meaningful is all it takes to trick the people!

Cena has worked too damn hard to make THAT a symbol of mastery to have it paraded by a paint-by-numbers, sociopathic nepo-baby who is so into himself that he had his wrestling gimmick tattooed for the world to see! It’s not where the tattoo is, it’s what the tattoo IS that exposes Cody for who he is: a common fan like the rest of them. So after WrestleMania, it’ll be great for Cody! He can go to Fanatics, buy the toy belt, call himself the fans’ champion, because the last real champion is taking that belt home forever to expose Cody for who he is: an errand boy that got lucky! Fans are actually fired up behind Cena!?

Cody tells Cena that he didn’t expect this. But maybe Cena is right. Maybe Cody was chosen. But you know who chose him? The fans did. Can Cena say the same? Or was it some guy in an office who isn’t even here anymore and we can’t even talk about him? Yeah, let’s go ahead and go there. Stirp everything away from Cody, does he know who he is? He’s a wrestler like his father before him, and if anyone is a corporate creation, it is Cena and not Cody! Gosh, everyone is so terrified of Cena on the mic but Cody isn’t not. Cena had more d*ck in his promo than in his jorts! Making fun of Cody for looking like he’s a kid?

Well, Cena’s the one who hangs out with Zac Efron and wishes he was 16 again! And thanks for the softball saying Cena created all of this and he created Cody. Well, Cena created a lot of disenfranchised fans that made it easy for Cody to pack up, go somewhere else, and say, “Hey! Look at me!” Cody tells Cena not to act like he cleaned up his room before he packed up for Hollywood. And while we’re at it…! There are two of them in this ring right now, and what Cody is about to ask might punch a giant hole in Cena’s logic. Between the two of them, which one of them sold out to The Rock? The fans again chant at Cena, “You Sold Out!”

Cody tells Cena that Cena is still Cody’s hero. But Cena is also a POS. Cena smirks while fans repeat that. Cena says just like all the fans’, Cody’s head is full of feces and not facts. Cena has worked 100 times harder than Cody and never once in all of that was he ever protected from the audience, or the superstar, present company included, taking their best shot. Everyone knows that every time Cena steps in the ring, it is a challenge to every superstar to take their strongest swing to see if they are worthy to put Cena down. NO ONE has been worthy! So Cena has just decided to do it himself. That’s why Cena has never left, has always been here.

No matter how high the hill is to climb, no matter what garbage they give him, Cena finds a way to make it great. Cody had to leave because Cody realized that at best, he can’t even wipe Cena’s ass! Cena makes empires for billionaires! All Cody ever did was steal money from their kids. “See you at WrestleMania, champ.” Cena turns to go but Cody wants to remind Cena, that all the time Cody has been here, never once has an audience ever chanted, “You Can’t Wrestle.” Cena hears the fans repeat that and he turns red int he face! Cena storms back into the ring, he and Cody square up, but then Cena smirks again.

Cena tips his hat and then takes a swing! Cody catches him! CROSS RHODES!! Cody smooths out his suit while he stands over Cena. Then he points to the sign while fans sing, “CODY! CODY RHODES~!” Cody holds the belt up before he exits, will Cody do very much the same in just 19 days?

The New Day VS ???

Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods demanded a shot at the WWE World Tag Team Championships, but they were told to earn it. If they’re truly the best tag team in history, will they have absolutely no problem beating a mystery opponent? We find out, after the break.

Raw returns and Adam Pearce walks out. He reminds the new Day that they need to earn their title shot, and so London, please help in welcoming Tyler Bate & Pete Dunne! New Catch Republic is back! The London fans fire up as their Big Strong Boi & Bruiserweight are here, will they be the ones to earn that tag team title shot?

The teams sort out and Bate starts with Woods. The fans chant “Welcome Back!” as Bate and Woods circle. They tie up, and Bate wrenches to a knuckle lock. Bate rolls, then catches Woods with headscissors to bring him to the corner! Bate waves to the fans, tags Dunne, then RANAS Woods away! Dunne runs up to CLOBBER Woods! The fans fire up again and Dunne brings Woods up. Dunne bends the fingers, isolates Woods’ arm, and STOMPS it! Bate tags in, goes up, and he uses Dunne to KNEE-BOARD SENTON! Bate waves to Kofi,. Kofi runs in, but Bate DUMPS him out! Bate builds speed, Dunne CLOBBERS Kofi while Bate FLIES to hit Woods!

The fans fire up for their guys as they high-five, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns and Woods keeps Dunne from Bate. Dunne reaches out but Woods sends him into ropes. Woods then CHOKES Dunne, but stops at 4. Kofi CHOKES Dunne behind the ref’s back! Woods then runs to DROPKICK Dunne in the back! Cover, TWO! Dunne stays in this, but Woods grins as he soaks up the heat. The fans rally for Dunne as he rises, and Dunne CHOPS! And CHOPS! And forearms! Woods ROCKS Dunne, puts him back on ropes, and he tags Kofi. Woods holds Dunne down for Kofi’s APRON SENTON! The fans rally for NCR but Kofi AX HANDLES Dunne down! Cover, TWO! Kofi keeps Dunne down with an armlock.

Dunne reaches out, even as Kofi adds a chinbar. The fans rally, Dunne fights up, but Kofi CLUBS him! Kofi whips Dunne to the corner, Dunne goes up and over! Then hot tag to Tyler! The fans fire up as Bate rallies on Kofi, then he BLASTS Woods! Bate runs at the corner, Kofi dodges, but Bate catches Kofi! EXPLODER! Bate kips up, the fans fire up, and Bate fireman’s carries! AIRPLANE SPIN! The fans cheer as Bate goes around and around, TEN, then the THROW! The fans fire up while Bate is a bit dizzy. Bate wobbles but he tags Dunne. Bate then runs at Kofi, Dunne meets him, TOP BIN! And the LARIAT GERMAN SUPLEX COMBO! Cover, Woods breaks it!

The fans rally up, Woods dodges Bate to BOOT him! Dunne kicks Woods, then puts him through ropes! Woods swings on Dunne, but Dunne grabs that hand! Dunne SNAPS the fingers! Woods falls, Kofi runs up! S O S! Cover, TWO! Dunne survives and Kofi is furious! The fans rally up, but Kofi brings Dunne up and tags Woods. New Day double whip, but Dunne KICKS Kofi! Dunne mule kicks Woods,. STOMPS Woods’ hands, but Woods ducks! BUZZSAW hits Kofi! Woods BACK SUPLEXES, but Dunne lands out! Tag to Bate! Bate blocks a kick, Bop up, BANG connects! Tag back to Dunne, then Bate runs up.

Woods puts Bate on the apron, but Dunne GAMANGIRIS! Dunne lifts Woods but Woods CLAWS Dunne’s eyes! Kofi YANKS Bate off the apron! Woods RAMS Dunne into buckles! Tag to Kofi, and then DAYBREAK!! Cover, New Day wins!

Winners: The New Day, by pinfall

New Catch Republic’s return was ruined, all because the “best” tag team had to cut corners! Cathy Kelley interviews New Day, congratulating them on the win. They felt deserving of a title opportunity, but do they feel this win cements that? Woods asks if Cathy is slow. They obviously deserve the title match, and they want it now! Kofi says they did what they said they would, and now they demand what they are owed! That is a title match for THE WWE World Tag Team Championships! Well, here come the War Raiders! The fans fire up as Erik & Ivar storm out on stage, belts on their shoulders, and they stare down with The New Day.

Erik & Ivar are always ready, so will they and New Day take this all the way to Las Vegas?

Jey checks on Jimmy.

The Usos are pumped up. Jey knows Jimmy told him earlier, but Jey would just feel better if he was out there with Jimmy tonight. Jimmy knows that, but tonight is different. Jimmy knows the world is doubting Jey. But tonight, Jimmy closes that noise. Gunther’s a big deal, but so is Jey. And so is Jimmy. Ain’t no Ring General, just a man who is beatable. Tonight, Jimmy beats Gunther. At WrestleMania, Jey beats Gunther and becomes World Heavyweight Champion! YEET! They shake it out and then Jey holds on. “I hear you. Just be careful.” Jimmy nods, and Jey heads out. Will #BigJim make good on his word? Or will Gunther get back at him for last week’s slap?

Jimmy Uso VS GUNTHER!

Raw returns as Jimmy is in the ring, and then Gunther makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally as Jimmy stares Gunther down. Gunther grins, then he and Jimmy circle. Then Gunther runs up, but Jimmy counter punches! Jimmy ROCKS and CHOPS but Gunther shoves him back! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, then fires CHOP after CHOP! Gunther shoves Jimmy and BOOTS him down! The fans fire up, and Gunther TOSSES Jimmy out. Gunther storms out after Jimmy to whip him hard into barriers! Gunther CHOPS Jimmy, the fans “WOO~,” and Gunther stalks Jimmy along the way. Gunther CHOPS Jimmy again!

Gunther THROWS Jimmy into the barriers! Gunther refreshes the ring count at 7 of 10, to then drag Jimmy up. Gunther wrenches Jimmy, chinbars him and dares him to slap Gunther now! Gunther reels Jimmy in, but jimmy BACKDROPS free! Jimmy hurries into the ring, builds speed, but Gunther’s on the apron! Jimmy UPPERCUTS, then he runs to DIVE! Down goes Gunther into the desk! The fans fire up and Jimmy hurries to put Gunther in! Jimmy climbs up, the fans rally for “UCE! OH!” and USO SPLASH, onto knees! Gunther hurries to the corner and climbs up, but Jimmy UPPERCUTS first!

Jimmy climbs up after Gunther, brings him to the top rope, and SUPER DUPER PLEXES!! Jimmy hurries right back up, and USO SPLASH!! Cover, TWO!! Gunther survives and Jimmy is shocked! Gunther goes outside, Jimmy leaps off the apron, into a CHOP! Gunther APRON BACK SUPLEXES Jimmy, then reels him in for a short arm LARIAT! The fans are torn while Gunther looms over Jimmy, and Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Gunther drags Jimmy by an arm. The fans rally while Gunther eggs Jimmy on. Gunther dares Jimmy to slap him, then winds up, but Jimmy blocks the shot! Jimmy SLAPS Gunther after all! And mule kicks! And UPPERCUTS! And SUPERKICKS! Jimmy dodge a lariat to GERMAN SUPLEX! And SUPERKICK! The fans fire up as Jimmy unloads his arsenal! Gunther is in a corner, Jimmy runs up, but into a SHOTGUN! Gunther hauls Jimmy up and reels him in! GUNTHER BOMB! Cover, but Gunther lets off?! Gunther shakes his head, because this is not enough! Gunther wants to send a message to Jey!

The fans chant “ONE MORE TIME! ONE MORE TIME!” as Gunther kicks Jimmy around. Jimmy rises, but Gunther BOOTS him! Jimmy staggers, into a LARIAT! Cover, but again Gunther lets off! The fans are torn as Gunther sadistically lets this continue. The fans chant “YEET! YEET! YEET!” while Jimmy sputters. Gunther eggs Jimmy on, stalks him to the ropes, then CHOPS Jimmy on the back! SLEEPER!! Jimmy is caught, he is OUT! Gunther wins!

Winner: Gunther, by submission

Der Ring General shows how truly dangerous he is, and he puts the World Heavyweight Championship back around his waist. But then he decides he isn’t done! Gunther hauls Jimmy up and into the SLEEPER!! The fans chant “YEET! YEET! YEET!” and here comes Jey! Jey rushes the ring but Gunther lets Jimmy go, only for Jey to TACKLE him! The fans fire up as they brawl, and Gunther is retreating! Jey pursues, he throws hands, but Gunther shoves Jey away! Gunther runs away into the crowd and the fans boo. Jey dares Gunther to finish what he started, but Der Ring General is going to make him wait. Will Gunther regret all of this once WrestleMania arrives?

Raw returns and…

Jey helps Jimmy to the back, but then Gunther CLOBBERS THEM BOTH! Der Ring General then THROWS Jey into steel steps! Gunther pushes the steps apart, then he hauls Jey up. Gunther CHOPS, referees and producers and security all rush out here, and they stop Gunther from hitting Jey off the steps. So Gunther takes a guard and POWERBOMBS him on the steps!! And he BOOTS another guard! Then he POSTS Jey! The fans boo but Gunther grabs a zip tie off the security guard?! Gunther straps Jey’s wrist into one, then CLAWS Jey’s face! The fans boo but Gunther ties Jey to the bottom rope!

Jey tries to fight free but he’s stuck as Gunther drags Jimmy up! Gunther whips Jimmy hard into barriers! The fans boo and Jey swipes at Gunther, but he can’t reach him! Gunther kicks Jey, then slides into the ring. Jey tries to get Gunther even now, but Gunther taunts him with the world title. Gunther soaks up the heat, even as Jey pulls at the zip tie as hard as he can! Gunther says this is as close as Jey will ever get! Jey is not on Gunther’s level! He is not a superstar! The fans boo, Gunther taunts Jey more, but Jimmy’s back up! Gunther BLASTS Jimmy with the belt! The fans boo and Gunther continues to taunt Jey.

Jey is furious, but the zip tie is tough. Jimmy flounders back up?! Gunther sets the belt down and lets Jimmy get in the ring. Jimmy is busted open from taking that belt to his forehead! Jey tells Jimmy to get away but Gunther drags Jimmy up! GUNTHER BOMB!! Jey is enraged but he can’t get free! Gunther rains down fists on Jimmy, painting himself with Jimmy’s blood! Gunther even tastes the blood, and the fans tell Gunther he’s sick! Gunther shoves Jimmy towards Jey so Jey can grab Jimmy’s hand, but then Gunther sits Jimmy up for HAMMER ‘N’ ANVIL ELBOWS! And the SLEEPER! Jey is enraged but there’s nothing he can do!

Refs and producers get in the ring, they tell Gunther to stop, but Gunther just keeps taunting Jey! Gunther lets Jimmy go, and he’s covered in blood like a damn psychopath! Pearce is finally here and he asks what the Hell is wrong with Gunther! Gunther raises the belt and soaks up the heat, will Jey make him pay in spades?

The Judgment Day talks backstage.

Finn Balor checks with Dominik Mysterio, how many chicken tendies did he have? A lot. But sadly, no ranch! Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez walk in, and Liv sees the boys buried the hatchet. Finn says of course they did! Everyone knows that brothers fight, but they always make up. Dom says they always have each other’s backs. And now that the funny business about a new member is behind them, they’ll focus on what’s important: bringing gold back to the clubhouse! And that starts with showing Bron Breakker & Penta that the Judgment Day are a well-oiled machine. Everyone likes that!

Finn then tells Raquel, hard luck on that loss to Lyra. But don’t worry, Finn will bring home the Intercontinental Championship. Sure he will. Finn & Dom head out, Carlito nods, but Raquel looks at him. What is he still doing here? Go with them! Go! Right, right! Carlito heads out, and Raquel is annoyed. Liv says they just need to handle Bayley and Lyra. Will Judgment Day be truly golden again? Or will their fortunes only turn worse on the Road to WrestleMania?

Bron Breakker & PENTA VS Finn Balor & Dominik Mysterio w/ Carlito!

Well, speaking of the Badass and the Man with No Fear, it’s going to be a rather tricky team-up for these two when they only just battled over the Intercontinental Championship. But can they put their differences aside to destroy some common enemies? We find out, after the break!

Raw returns and Judgment Day makes their entrance together. The teams sort out and Dom starts against Penta. They circle, but then Finn snags Penta’s shirt! Dom fires off on Penta in the distraction! The fans boo, the ref counts, but Dom stops at 4. Finn soaks up the heat while Dom whips Penta to ropes. Penta ducks ‘n’ dodges to RANA! Tag to Bron and the fans bark as Bron CLOBBERS Dom! Bron snarls at Finn, stands Dom up and military presses for a SLAM! Bron then scoops Dom, but Dom slips free! Tag to Finn, but Bron catches Finn by the neck! Finn fires a body shot, but Bron headlocks. Finn powers up and out, drops down, then leaps, into a POWERSLAM!

The fans bark with Bron again, and he runs up to ELBOW Finn in the corner! Tag to Penta, and Penta GAMANGIRIS! Penta sits Finn down, headstands on the corner, and DROPKICKS! The fans fire up, Dom runs up, and Penta scoops to BACKBREAKER! Bron steps in and he LARIATS Dom up and out! Penta builds speed and he FLIES! Down go Finn & Dom and the fans fire up while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns again and Finn RAMS Penta into the corner again and again. Tag to Dom, Dom RAMS into Penta again and again, then Dom snapmares Penta. Tag to Finn and he slingshot STOMPS! Finn tags back to Dom, and Dom slingshot SENTONS! Cover, TWO! Penta stays in this but Dom stays on him. The fans rally up as Dom reels Penta in, and snap suplexes! That’s Uno Amigo, and then Dom hits Dos Amigos! The fans boo as Dom gives some Latino Heat, but Penta slips free! Dom kicks Penta, whips, but Penta goes up and over to BACKSTABBER! Both men are down and the fans fire up! The fans bark as Penta crawls, hot tags to Finn and Bron!

Bron CLOBBERS Finn, DECKS him, then DECKS Dom! Bron clinches Finn for an OVERHEAD BELLY2BELLY! BELLY2BELLY for Dom! Finn kicks low, reels Bron in, but Bron fights the suplex! Dom helps out, but Bron still fights it! Bron DOUBLE SUPLEXES Dom and Finn! The fans are thunderous as Bron brings down the straps! Bron has Finnin a fireman’s carry, but Finn CLAWS eyes! Finn runs, but Bron dodges and builds speed! LARIAT! The fans fire up again, and Bron tags Penta. Bron says go up, so Penta climbs. Bron stands Finn up, Electric Chair Lifts, and we get a SUPER SLING-DOG! Cover, Dom breaks it!

The fans boo but Bron has Dom! Bron TOSSES Dom out, Penta aims at Finn. Finn stands into a SUPERKICK !Penta then goes up the corner, the fans sing, “OLE~ OLE OLE OLE~! CERO~ MIEDO~!” Carlito distracts the ref as Dom anchors Penta’s foot! Bron DECKS Carlito, Penta ROCKS Dom! “CERO! MIEDO!” Penta leaps, but Dom helps stop the Destroyer! Dom sees Finn, runs up, but Dom shoves Penta into the SPEAR!! Bron is upset, but then Finn TOSSES Bron out! Dom WRECKS Bron with a dropkick! Finn goes up, and he gives Penta the COUP DE GRACE!! Cover, Judgment Day wins!

Winners: Finn Balor & Dominik Mysterio, by pinfall

The numbers game pays off once again, and Judgment Day just gave Penta the first loss on his WWE record! Will Judgment Day finally stay on the same page and have all the success in the world?

Adam Pearce talks with Chad Gable.

Gable admits, Pearce did a great job signing El Grande Americano. Did you see that last week? Gable wouldn’t mind getting into the ring with that guy some day. Pearce says the LWO would like that, too, but apparently, Gable still isn’t well enough to compete? Uh… Gable coughs on cue, and has another doctor’s note. Of course… That’s a shame, though, because next week, Raw returns to Minneapolis. Wait, Gable’s hometown? Well, he’ll be good by then! Give him a match! He’ll compete! Pearce says that while he appreciates that, the doctor’s note kinda ties his hands. Gable says by the time he’s back on American soil, he’ll be fine. Gable knows how to get healthy.

Pearce says no, nothing is more important than Gable’s health. Beside, Pearce is already making arrangements. Who better to compete on American soil than El Grande Americano? Gable says no, that’s HIS hometown! But it is official. Doctor’s orders, Gable. Gable frowns, turns to go, but runs into the Alpha Academy. Gable says, “Clowns. Idiot.” He leaves, Pearce apologizes for that, but Maxxine Dupri hopes Pearce has time to talk the tag team division. He is always happy to talk about Otis & Tozawa. Maxxine says it’s not just them, but also she wants to discuss her opportunities. Maxxine has been talking with Natalya lately, and they’ve got some ideas.

Pearce says in that case, let’s all get together and talk. Maxxine appreciates that! What could we be getting for The Alpha Babes & The Queen of Harts?

AJ Styles is here!

London cheers the Phenomenal One, and he goes right to the ring to get the mic. The fans cheer Styles on more, and Styles says he has been waiting in the back patiently. Logan Paul said he was gonna call Styles out, but Styles is tired of waiting. If Logan has something to say, come out and say it right now. Logan makes his entrance, and the fans boo the Maverick. Logan grins as he swaggers out here in sleeveless hoodie, drinks some Prime, then rips up a fan’s sign mocking Prime. London taunts Logan with “Who Are Ya? Who Are Ya?” Logan grabs a mic to say he hears them. Styles, bud, you wouldn’t understand. And neither would the fans.

No one here has the same fame as Logan Paul. As a global phenomenon who is incredibly wealthy, and also really good looking, everyone here is on his time. Styles enjoys the fans booing Logan, but Logan says he is making them wait. They do as they’re told because they’re all sheep. But Styles, don’t get your shiny panties in a bunch. Logan had a change of heart, brother. Fans tell Logan to S T F U! Logan says that’s a shame, he came out here to be nice. But Styles, Logan had a change of heart. He is a dad now! He’s trying to teach his daughter the art of forgiveness, so please. No, you’ll all like this, so please.

Logan takes off his sunglasses and forgives Styles for what Styles did at Madison Square Garden. But Logan doesn’t forget, so don’t try that again. The fans still taunt Logan, Logan says they know who he is, and it’s why they’re here. Styles says okay, he feels that. He has a daughter, too. So y’know what? Styles forgives Logan, too. The fans cheer Styles, and Logan asks what Styles has to forgive him for. Styles wants us all to hear him out. Styles forgives Logan Paul for being the biggest douchebag to ever step foot in the WWE. The fans cheer that! Styles says Logan brags about his success and his money, but the fans don’t care about that!

The fans care about what Logan is willing to sacrifice in this ring for them! Logan has all the talent in the world, Styles gives him that. But in this business, talent only gets you so far. So the question is: What’s Logan gonna do with it? Logan says okay, that’s true. He’d ask Styles for advice, but the saying goes, “Don’t take advice from someone you wouldn’t want to trade places with.” Styles says that’s a good one. Another saying goes, “Don’t let your mouth write a check your ass can’t cash!” Logan asks if that’s a threat. Styles says no, it’s Monday Night Raw! And they’re in London, England! Styles has his gear, he’s right here in the ring. What does Logan think?

Logan thinks Styles is just saying stuff that’s true. Logan is done talking! Styles knows it, London know sit, Logan doesn’t fight for free, and London cannot afford him! Everyone here is poor, congrats! That guy, this guy, and this guy probably spent his entire life’s savings just to get front row. Congrats, you peaked. How about this? Call a spade a spade, Styles must want the big money match. So how about setting his sights a little higher? Logan pionts tot he Mania sign, then takes a cheap shot! Styles blocks it to fire off on Logan! The fans fire up, and Styles brings Logan around, only for Logan to get away!

Logan bails out, but Styles pursues! Styles dodges a lariat to SMACK Logan off the desk! Styles says this is Bullet Club Styles tonight! Styles steps in, but Logan YANKS the ropes to jam him up! The fans boo while Styles writhes. Logan dares Styles to get up, and then he reels Styles in! PAUL-VERIZER!! The fans boo but Logan just soaks it up. Will Logan be even more ImPAULsive should they go to Vegas?

Backstage interview with Lyra Valkyria.

Jackie Redmond is with the Women’s Intercontinental Champion, and congratulates her on the successful defense against Raquel last week. Now, WrestleMania is less than three weeks away, what is Lyra’s focus now? Lyra thanks Bayley for last week for having her back against Liv & Raquel. But when it comes to the title, Lyra wants to make it clear, she can stand on her own two feet. Bayley is the one person who has beaten Lyra since Lyra won the title, and it drives Lyra a little crazy. So not only does Lyra have to keep her promise to Bayley, but she has to prove she can and will beat her.

Next week, it will be the rematch! Lyra VS Bayley for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship! Jackie likes the breaking news! Lyra said she’d be a fighting champion, she is living up to the reputation. But will The Morrigan hold onto the Shiny Shiny after taking on The Role Model?

Bianca Belair heads to the ring!

Tonight, the #1 contender to the WWE Women’s World Championship is the Special GuEST Referee! But will she be the fairEST referee? Or will she let emotions get the better of her when calling this main event?

Judgment Day regroups backstage.

Liv & Raquel are so proud of Dom & Finn for winning out there. Finn says he pinned Penta 1-2-3! And not only that, this is the second week in a row that he got the better of Bron Breakker! It is WrestleMania season, Finn’s on a roll, and he’ll go talk with Pearce about getting another title match. Great work, Dom! Finn is back! Finn hurries off, but then Liv frowns at Dom. Did Finn just say that? Did Finn just say he won, not they won? Dom says that’s not what he meant, but Liv says Dom worked just as hard as Finn to get that win. Finn thinks he deserves another title match when he had one and lost already?

Liv says Dom never lost. And she is going to talk with Pearce as soon as Finn is done! Liv heads out, Dom and Carlito don’t understand why this is happening. But who will get their shot at the title as we draw closer to WrestleMania?

WWE Women’s World Championship, Special Guest Referee Bianca Belair: Iyo Sky VS Rhea Ripley!

The Evil Genius got this title thanks in part to Bianca distracting Mami, and Mami’s been trying to get back on top ever since! Will Rhea win her rematch in part thanks to Bianca? Or will Iyo always have Rhea’s number?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised by Bianca, and we see how WrestleMania’s title match shakes out!

The bell rings and the fans sing for “IYO! IYO SKY~!” Rhea and Iyo circle, tie up, and they go around. Iyo headlocks, they go around some more, and Rhea puts Iyo on ropes. Bianca calls the break, counts, but no one listens so she has to get in there herself. The fans rally, the two tie up and then throw hands! Rhea waistlocks and she THROWS Iyo to a corner! Rhea RAMS into Iyo again and again, Bianca counts, but she again has to get Rhea to stop. Bianca reminds Rhea, she’s the ref so they have to listen. Iyo leap son Rhea for a facelock, and she rains down fists! Rhea and Iyo scrap in the corner, the fans duel, and Bianca counts.

Iyo doesn’t listen, so Bianca brings her back. Bianca reminds Iyo that Bianca is the ref. Rhea returns, Iyo headlocks, but Rhea powers up and out. Rhea then blows past Iyo, rolls, but Iyo steps over the takedown to a cover! TWO, Rhea has it, ONE! Iyo has it! ONE, Rhea has it! ONE and Iyo has it! TWO, and Iyo jackknife bridges! ONE, Rhea sunsets, ONE! The two scramble to their feet, the fans cheer, and Iyo runs to handspring! Rhea gets clear but Iyo SHOTGUNS! Iyo kips up, but Rhea LARIATS! Both women are down and the fans fire up while Raw goes to break.

Raw returns and Rhea covers, TWO! Rhea argues the count with Bianca but Bianca says her count is fair. Rhea is annoyed but she drags Iyo back up. Iyo JAWBREAKERS back, then SHOTEIS! And SHOTEIS! Iyo runs to SHOTGUN Rhea down! The fans rally and duel as Iyo whips Rhea to a corner. Rhea reverses, Bianca has to hurry out of the way. Iyo goes outside, GAMANGIRIS, then goes up top! MISSILE DROPKICK! The fans fire up while Rhea flops out of the ring and Iyo kips up! Iyo builds speed, and she DIVES! Down goes Rhea and the fans fire up again! Iyo hurries back into the ring, but refreshes the count.

The fans cheer as Iyo says let’s go again! But Rhea Electric Chair Lifts Iyo to SLAM her off the apron! Bianca counts, but Iyo POISON-RANAS in return! Rhea and Iyo are both down, Bianca keeps counting, and we’re past 5 of 10! Rhea hears 8, Iyo and Rhea both spring in at 9.5! The fans fire up as this continues, and Bianca watches both women closely. Rhea and Iyo fire forearms, the fans fire up again, and the shots go back and forth! Iyo seems to have the edge with the fans, and she blocks a shot to fire a flurry! Iyo then KICKS a leg out, winds up, but Rhea ducks the buzzsaw! Rhea waistlocks, Iyo victory rolls, STOMP 182!

The fans fire up and Iyo hurries to the corner. Iyo steps on Rhea as she goes up, up, and- NO, Rhea CLUBS Iyo first! Rhea climbs up, Electric Chair Lifts again, but Iyo fires fists! SUPER- NO, Rhea stops the Rana, fireman’s carries Iyo, but Iyo makes it a SUPER CRUCIFIX DRIVER!! The fans are thunderous as Iyo crawls to the cover, TWO!! Rhea survives and “This is Awesome!” Rhea flounders to a corner, Iyo goes to the other. Iyo runs in, SHINKANSEN! Iyo puts Rhea back in the drop zone, then goes up, up, and- NO, Rhea shoves Iyo tot he apron! Rhea drags Iyo up, but Iyo HOTSHOTS back! Iyo then climbs, CROSSBODY into a HEADBUTT!? Cover, TWO!!

Rhea is beside herself as Iyo survives that antiair! The fans rally and duel while Rhea talks trash on Iyo. Rhea wobbles, drags Iyo up, and then Rhea pump handles. RIP- DD- NO!! Rhea counters the counter to suplex! But Iyo slips around, only for Rhea to pop her around, RAZOR’S EDGE!! And a PENALTY KICK!! Cover, TWO!!! Iyo survives that double shot and Rhea is freaking out! Bianca swears her count was fair, and Rhea is pulling at her hair in frustration. Rhea drags Iyo up, pump handles again, RIP- NO, Iyo slips out to body scissor and JAPANESE LEG ROLL CLUTCH! TWO!! Now Iyo is the one shocked!

Iyo hurries to wheelbarrow, but Rhea stops that! Rhea lifts, but Iyo switches! Rhea switches, Iyo switches, but Rhea ELBOWS Iyo away! Iyo staggers into Bianca, Rhea runs up, but Iyo dodges! The BOOT hits Bianca!! Bianca falls out of the ring, Iyo rolls Rhea, but Rhea rolls through! EDDY GORDO KICK! RIPTIDE!!! Cover, but there’s no one to count! Rhea would’ve won twice over but she realizes what happened! Bianca sputters and stands back up, and Bianca is upset with Rhea. Rhea’s upset that Bianca didn’t position herself better. Rhea tells Bianca to get back in to do her job, and Rhea covers. Bianca counts, TWO!?!?

Iyo survives and Rhea is again beside herself! Bianca still checks her chin while defending her count. Rhea is pissed with Bianca, they argue about this and that, but Bianca pushes Rhea’s accusing hands away. Iyo storms up, but Rhea trips her! Rhea rains down fists, they’re in the ropes, Bianca counts! Bianca pulls Rhea back, but Rhea is furious! Rhea ROCKS Bianca! The fans are torn and Rhea realizes she shouldn’t have done that. Rhea turns around, Iyo is up top! MISSILE DROPKICK, but Rhea moves! Bianca takes the hit again! Bianca is completely wiped out, Rhea CLOBBERS Iyo! Rhea drags Iyo up again but Bianca says screw it, she’s done!

Double Disqualification; Iyo retains the title

Rhea is furious, and she bites the rope in her anger! Rhea goes after Bianca now, and she fires hands! They both brawl, the fans are thunderous again, but now Iyo ASAI MOONSAULTS! Down goes BOTH Bianca & Rhea! Iyo is just as pissed and she puts Rhea in the ring! The fans cheer Iyo on, but here comes Bianca! Bianca DECKS Iyo, rains fists down on her, but now Rhea is back! HEADBUTT for Bianca! Pump handle and RIPTIDE!! Then Rhea drags Iyo up, and gives her a RIPTIDE!! The fans fire up as Mami IS on top, title or not! Fans want all that “ONE MORE TIME!” so Rhea obliges! Rhea drags Bianca by her braid to bring her to a corner!

Rhea drags Bianca up top, pump handles, and SUPER RIPTIDE!!! Rhea tells both Bianca and Iyo that this is far from over! Rhea holds up the title as she stands over both of them, but will she really be denied her WrestleMania Moment?

My Thoughts:

A great Raw here, especially to close out the Euro Tour. Cena and Cody gave us another awesome promo, the first one that actually had a back and forth, not just Cena’s part then Cody’s part. They both really got some strong digs into each other, hard to say who won the war of words, but Cody stood tall tonight as Cena did deserve some comeuppance from Elimination Chamber. But at the same time, this could be an indication that Cena is winning at WrestleMania, but two weeks out is a little early for go-home math.

Great stuff bringing New Catch Republic back for London, but I had a feeling New Day would win no matter what. Erik & Ivar showing up to confront New Day was good stuff, and that’s gotta be the Mania match. At the same time, Maxxine Dupri surely wants Pearce to consider Otis & Tozawa as potential contenders. Mania has been crafting Triple Threats and perhaps even some Fatal 4 Ways, so it wouldn’t be surprising if War Raiders VS New Day also had Alpha Academy or some other team adding to the mix.

Speaking of, there’s been word that the Men’s Intercontinental Championship will be a Fatal 4, and we certainly got that teased with the Judgment Day. Good promos from Judgment Day to keep that passive aggressive dysfunction going. Very good tag match from Finn & Dom VS Bron & Penta, and the usual tactics of course helped Judgment Day win. Finn wants his shot, Liv wants Dom to get his shot, and surely Penta will be owed something for how Judgment Day’s been doing stuff, so there is the Fatal 4, easy as that.

Great bit with Gable and Pearce where Gable is going to miss out on wrestling in his hometown, but El Grande Americano gets his chance, and brings into question if Gable will start to flip things so that El Grande is “sick” but Gable is just fine. Great stuff with Gunther and the Usos. Good match, and Gunther attacking the Usos from behind was also a good touch. I won’t say that beating makes up for the bad pacing of this build, but Jey watching Jimmy just bloodied and battered, that was still some strong stuff. This finally gets Gunther VS Jey in gear, but there’s still two more Mondays to hopefully keep this up, not drop the ball again.

Good promo segment from Styles and Logan, maybe just a little thrown off by how fired up the fans were to cheer Styles and boo Logan, but they got their points across. Logan self-righteously apologizing, Styles backhandedly apologizing, and they brawl to where Logan uses a cheap tactic to get the advantage, there’s our Mania match. And similarly, great main event for the Women’s World Championship. Bianca did a very good job playing up how she doesn’t know how to be a referee, it’s what made that first “accidental” strike believable. Then you add on the tension we’ve seen the last few weeks, it just works that Bianca would make this a draw, only for Rhea to stand tall anyway. At this point, Pearce is just stuck because Bianca and Iyo will each want payback on Rhea, Triple Threat is made.

My Score: 8.9/10