Results
Mitchell’s WWE SmackDown Results & Report! (4/4/25)
CM Punk is home!
We’re two weeks away from WrestleMania!
And for the second SmackDown in a row, CM Punk, Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins will be under one roof! But will we learn more on Paul Heyman’s favor to Chicago’s own?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- Rey Fenix VS Nathan Frazer; Fenix wins.
- LA Knight VS Tama Tonga w/ Solo Sikoa; Knight wins.
- WWE Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Match: #DIY VS Motor City Machine Guns; MCMG wins and will challenge The Street Profits for the titles.
- Naomi VS B-Fab; Naomi wins.
- WWE United States Championship #1 Contender’s Last Man Standing Match: Jacob Fatu VS Braun Strowman; Fatu wins and will challenge LA Knight for the title.
PLAY BY PLAY
CM Punk is here!
Chicago was already fired up, and now they erupt as they sing along with Cult of Personality! Punk walks out on stage, smiles as he takes in this homecoming scene, and even goes over to stage left to high-five fans. Punk goes all the way to stage right, then kneels down. He checks, and “IT’S CLOBBERIN’ TIME~!” Punk revels in the introduction, and in the reception from the fans, before he goes to ringside. Punk makes sure to high-five and fist-bump fans over there, and he even stands on the barriers for everyone to see! Punk then hops down to step up into the ring. The fans continue to chant for Punk as he stands on top of the corner.
Punk feels good as he steps into the ring and grabs a mic. The chanting continues, and he says, “I don’t know where to begin. They told me that the best television audiences were overseas. But I knew we were coming to Chicago!” Punk borrows a camera so he can look at hard cam side and show that this is 360 degrees of fans! Punk says he understands why camerawork is so tricky, and he hands the camera back. But see, this is why Chicago doesn’t listen to outside voices. Little known fact: Punk’s not supposed to be here. The fans boo but Punk says stop if you heard this one before.
Punk was born at Silver Cross Hospital with the cord around his neck. He came out blue, they had to bring him back to life, so he’s not supposed to be here! And every time he comes out on TV, no matter where it is across the world, Netflix streaming or USA Network, it doesn’t matter. Punk’s goal is to make new fans every single time. But tonight, ladies and gentlemen, all of TV land, please forgive Punk as he takes this time not to make new fans, but to thank 16 THOUSAND of Punk’s hometown friends ‘n’ family! The fans cheer that! “When they tell you you’re not supposed to be here, you say, ‘Well who’s gonna make me leave?'”
That is what Punk has done every single time he’s laced his boots up. Hell, every time he goes to the grocery store and they tell him he’s not supposed to be here, he buys his groceries, he pays the man, and then he leaves. Nothing has changed! And he isn’t sure if anyone knows this, but Punk’s in the main event of WrestleMania. The fans cheer that! “You Deserve It! You Deserve It!” Punk says he’s got goosebumps, though perhaps also copying The Rock on that. Punk says he deserved it? Ladies and gentlemen, Punk earned it! He started in the backyards of Chicago, they said “You’re not supposed to be here!”
He trained in the Steel Domain, and they said, “You’re not supposed to be here!” He signed a contract here, they said, “You’re not supposed to be here!” He paraded out like Al Capone right on John Cena’s gangster car, and they said, “That’s as good as it gets, kid. You’re not supposed to be here!” To Punk, that is when the hard work began. He appreciates all the fans congratulating him, even just at the airport as he came home. They congratulated him, but he wants us to know that NOW the hard work begins! Punk is a product of Chicago, he has to thank each and every single one of them, but he of course has to thank his beautiful wife, April, first.
The fans cheer for AJ Lee, and Punk says she’ll be mad at him for that. But here’s someone who won’t be mad: Larry! The fans cheer for Punk’s dog, and Punk says there are too many people to thank for getting him right where he needs to be. But he figured coming out here on TV and thanking everyone here is a good start. He wouldn’t be who he is without Chicago, he wouldn’t be where he is without Chicago. From the bottom of his heart, Punk thanks you all! And now, the hard work begins! Because he has a date at WrestleMania, and he promises us, that he will whip Seth Rollins’ ass! he will put a beating on The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns! And it’s at the MAIN EVENT of WrestleMania!
The fans are thunderous, but “Ladies and gentlemen…!” Paul Heyman gives his introduction and Punk smirks as Heyman says he just go tin, so he apologizes for being late. No disrespect to The Second City. And he absolutely means no offense to his best friend in the world, The Second City Saint, the Best in the World, C M PUNK! Heyman asks if he may enter the ring, and Punk says he was gonna thank him so go ahead. Heyman steps in, the fans chant for “E C DUB! E C DUB!” Punk says you can’t escape it. Heyman smiles, and he thanks them for that. But tonight, ask not what Chicago can do for The Wise Man. Ask what The Wise Man can do for Chicago.
But first he can do, he wants to tell The Voice of the Voiceless that dammit, he belongs here! Punk belongs in this ring! In Chicago! And by gawd, he belongs in the main event of WrestleMania! The fans cheer that! Heyman says the last time they were standing here in this ring, Heyman came up to Punk because of how Solo and Tama and Jacob were breathing down his neck, and he asked Punk, “Please, take me with you.” Next week, Madison Square Garden, Solo’s Bloodline put Heyman through a table and on the shelf for the longest he’s ever been out, not including when he was fire. Don’t laugh at that, that’s not funny.
Heyman says Punk had his Hell in a Cell with Drew McIntyre. Punk won but the beating was so severe that he was contemplating never coming back. But then Heyman pleaded with Punk, it was 4v5 at WarGames, and there’s no other way out. Heyman asked Punk to do him the favor of helping out, and Punk said, “Yes, I’ll do it for you.” Punk saved the match, and The Bloodline, so he deserves all the credit in the world. For that, Heyman thanks Punk, and if Punk will indulge him, Heyman has another favor to ask. Oh? Another favor? Well, guess Punk’s stockpiling favors. What can he do for Heyman?
Heyman please asks Punk to tell him the favor he owes. Roman’s gonna be here any minute now, and he’s pissed off as is, and you don’t know how Roman gets when he’s mad. You ever heard of Sika? Does Punk know what happens when Samoans get angry? Punk asks if Heyman just said Roman isn’t here. Y-Yet! He’s not here yet! It’s training camp for WrestleMania, so- Punk says that’s what Roman should be doing. And as much as the favor is none of Roman’s business, it will affect him. So Punk would like to tell Roman to his face when he also tells Heyman. So let Punk and all his friends here know when “Big Chief” decides to show up.
Punk leaves and Heyman is again stressed out. What will happen between Tribal Chief, Wise Man and Second City Saint on the Road to WrestleMania?
Rey Fenix VS Nathan Frazer!
The King Firebird has landed in WWE, ready to make his debut right here in the Windy City. But similarly, one half of the NXT Tag Team Champions is here for his SmackDown debut. Will Frazer look to ruin Fenix’s fun? Or will WWE be ready to #ANIMO?
The bell rings and the two tie up. The fans rally as Frazer headlocks. Frazer wrenches, hits an ELBOW BREAKER, but Fenix body shots and goes to ropes. Fenix uses the ropes to flip and wrench back. Frazer rolls, handsprings, wrenches and WRINGS Fenix, but Fenix UP KICKS! Both men kip up, but Fenix shows superkick! Frazer scrambles away and the fans fire up! Fenix and Frazer reset, tie up, and Frazer headlocks. Fenix powers up and out, Frazer goes up and over to handspring! Things speed up, Frazer redirects and redirects, then ducks ‘n’ dodges to kick low! Frazer whips, but Fenix goes Spider-Man!
Fenix comes back to HEEL KICK! Roll up, TWO, and Frazer rolls, only for Fenix to cradle! TWO, and Fenix RANAS! Cover, TWO! Frazer escapes, but Fenix kicks him down! The fans fire up and Fenix CHOPS Fenix in the corner! Fenix whips, Frazer goes up, but Fenix catches him. Frazer RANAS Fenix out, builds speed, and DIVES! Not the cleanest hit but Frazer still puts Fenix in the ring. Fenix hurries to BOOT Frazer back out! Fenix goes up, up, and TORNILLO! Down goes Frazer and Chicago is all fired up while SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Fenix fires up as he stands back up. Fenix drags Frazer up, CHOPS him against the apron, then pushes him into the ring. Fenix clamps onto Frazer, throws down some elbows, then goes for the double wristlock. Frazer endures, so Fenix HEADBUTTS him in the ribs! Fenix pulls on the arm, drags Frazer into a ghost pin, TWO! Fenix CHOPS, then he reels Frazer in. Frazer fights so Fenix wrenches and fireman’s carries. But Frazer fights that and hits a REVERSE DDT! RUNNING SHOOTING STAR! Cover, TWO! Fenix survives and Frazer is stunned. Fenix bails out, Frazer hurries after him and throws hands.
Frazer SMACKS Fenix off the desk, then CHOPS! Fenix CHOPS in return! Frazer sputters, Fenix puts him in the ring, but Frazer DROPKICKS right back! Frazer drags Fenix up, snapmares him, and KNEES him in the back! Frazer KNEES Fenix again, then runs to NECK SNAPPER! Cover, TWO! Fenix stays in this but Frazer stays focused. Frazer drags Fenix into a chinlock, but Fenix endures. Fenix fights up, fires body shots, but Frazer RAMS him into the corner! Frazer RAMS in again and again as SmackDown returns to single picture. Frazer puts Fenix up top, ROCKS him, then climbs up. But Fenix CHOPS in return!
Fenix SHOVES Frazer down, the fans rally up, and Fenix stands up, only for Frazer to spring up after him! Fenix SHOVES Frazer again, Frazer backflips through! Frazer is back again, SUPER DUPER PLEX, roll through and ANARCHY! Cover, TWO!! Fenix survives and Frazer is beside himself! The fans rally for Fenix while Frazer drags him into the drop zone. Frazer goes up, up, and PHOENIX- NO, Fenix dodges! Fenix somersaults, but Frazer kicks low! And KNEES him down! Frazer hurries to get Fenix back up, suplexes, but Fenix slips free. Fenix shoves Frazer and DROPKICKS him! Frazer sputters, Fenix goes up!
Fenix shouts, “Goodbye, Amigo!” then he tightrope walks, PENALTY KICK! Fenix isn’t done there, he fireman’s carries and then tucks Frazer. Knee and BLACK FIRE DRIVER!! Cover, TWO?!?! Fenix is shocked but Chicago is thunderous! Frazer goes to ropes, “This is Awesome!” as he kicks at Fenix. Fenix grabs the legs, YANKS Frazer up, but Frazer PELES! The fans fire up and rally again while both men flounder. Fenix kips up and SUPERKICKS Frazer Then he runs at the corner, JUMPING SOBAT! Fenix puts Frazer up top, CHOPS him, then tucks him in! MEXICAN MUSCLE BUSTER!! Cover, Fenix wins!
Winner: Rey Fenix, by pinfall
Chicago is giving a standing ovation as this double debut did not disappoint! Byron Saxton joins Fenix in the ring for an interview. Byron knows Fenix’s emotions must be all over the place, but how does it feel to finally debut in the WWE? Fenix takes a breath, and says, “Gracias, Chicago! I have a lot of history in Chicago, and with all of you. Tonight, it’s not the debut of Rey Fenix. Tonight is so much more. Tonight, I reborn as Rey Fenix! I am reborn with love, I am reborn with passion, and with ANIMO! I waited my whole life to say this: I AM W W E!! ANIMO~!” Fenix is all fired up, and he gives a deep bow to the fans. Will he soon blaze a trail to the top of the WWE?
Legado Del Fantasma is watching backstage.
Santos Escobar says now that was an impressive win. See, that is the kind of performance he expects from Los Garza. Do they understand? Humberto asks if Escobar is serious. Look at Fenix. He’s a flying lizard! A flash in the pan. Los Garza, on the other hand. Not to mention Legado as a whole! Berto is better than Fenix! Is that so? Then where has this fire been? Escobar likes it! But if Berto means it, he has to show it. Escobar will talk to Nick Aldis to make Rey Fenix VS Berto official. Escobar heads out, did Fenix light a fire in everyone else here on SmackDown?
Drew McIntyre speaks.
Sporting an eyepatch, the Scottish Terminator says, “It wasn’t enough that I gave you everything you have. Every big moment at my expense. Every girl you talked to at the bar, bragging you were champion, that was my title. All the money you made, you profited off of me being screwed. Then you realized, without me in your world, even fighting for the title, no one really cares about Damian Priest unless you’re feasting off of my scraps. So you took away both my world title opportunities at WrestleMania when my back was turned. All I asked for was for you to verbally explain to me how I’m wrong, poke a hole in my logic, maybe face me like a man.
“But no. You did what you always do: You hid in the shadows, like a vulture. After I beat Randy Orton right in that ring, I was heading out with my buddies, you attacked me, put me through a windshield. I can live with my back hurting, but a shard of glass went in my eye and I might never be the same. I need a miracle. I need to pray. And everybody knows when Drew McIntyre prays, bad things happen.” The Scottish Terminator is putting Priest on notice, but will having only one eye make him even more blind to the truth?
Backstage interview with Braun Strowman.
Byron Saxton is with the Monster of All Monsters, and says we have seen it for months now. Jacob Fatu has been a massive thrown in Braun’s side. Braun says that is a massive understatement. Braun is done with Jacob sticking his nose in his business. Tonight, Braun shows Jacob why Braun is The Monster when he buzzsaws through Jacob in this match. Then Braun goes to WrestleMania, and he takes the US Championship to complete the grand slam. But Solo Sikoa walks over, laughing at the idea. Last Man Standing? Braun, you are finished! No matter what you say, he still has to go out there and face the Samoan Werewolf!
Braun snarls but LA Knight steps in. Knight tells Braun to not waste his energy on the pumpkin headed bum and his bacon lips flapping. What Solo should do is get his boys in order, and Braun needs to keep his eyes on the prize. Solo says Knight has a lot of balls for coming up and talking to him like that. Knight says no lies told, his are gargantuan! But don’t worry about that. Tama Tonga says “YEHYEHYEHYEH YEAH!” Knight should be worried about Tama tonight. Knight says yes, he’s worried a little bit. If he wants to make noise, go ahead, because he’s gonna make a lot of noise in the ring. Yehyehyeh kehkehkeh checheche as Knight’s stomping Tama’s ass out!
Knight heads to gorilla as he says time to get a ref out here so Knight can remind everyone whose game it is, with everybody saying “L! A! KNIGHT!” The music hits, Knight goes right to the ring, but will the kavorka see him through against the Good Bad Guy?
LA Knight VS Tama Tonga w/ Solo Sikoa!
SmackDown returns as Tama makes his entrance, Solo by his side. The bell rings, Knight and Tama circle while the fans rally up. Solo distracts Knight and Tama runs up, only for Knight to block the cheap shot! Knight fires haymakers,’ YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight kicks and whips, then he ELBOWS Tama down! Knight brings Tama up but Tama DROPKICKS! Tamam runs, Knight BOOTS him, then brings him around for a suplex! Knight tells Solo to watch himself, then he stands Tama up. Tama YANKS Knight into buckles! Tama fires hands, then UPPERCUTS Knight! Tama HEADBUTTS, then clamps on for a BIG back suplex!
Knight flounders, Tama pushes him to a cover, TWO! Tama runs, but Knight BOOTS him down! The fans rally as Knight stalks Tama to the corner. Knight stands Tama up to bump him off buckles. Then he bumps him off buckles in another corner! And in another corner! Knight stomps a mudhole in, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight stops as the ref counts 4, and he runs corner to corner for a KNEE! “YEAH!” The fans fire up while Tama flops out, but Knight WRECKS him with a dropkick! Solo and Knight stare down, but Knight stays focused on Tama. Knight dribbles Tama off the desk, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!”
Knight then winds up to SMACK Tama off the desk one more time! Knight puts Tama in, Solo lurks, but Knight still RAMS into Tama! Solo gets on the apron, the ref has him back off, and Tama BLASTS Knight! Knight hits the desk, fans boo while Solo mocks him, and SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns as Knight endures a chinlock. The fans rally, Knight fights up and fires body shots. Knight ROCKS Tama again and again, but Tama hits back. Knight headlocks, Tama powers up and out, but Knight runs him over! Things speed up, Knight sunset flips, TWO! Tama runs up to LARIAT Knight down! The fans boo but Solo soaks up that heat. Tama gator rolls Knight to then suplex high and hard! Cover, TWO! Knight stays in this but Tama stays focused. Tama rains down fists, then he paces around. Solo tells Tama to keep on Knight and Tama rains down more fists. Tama then goes up a corner, smiles, and mocks the “L! A! KNIGHT!”
Tama leaps, but Knight avoids the macho elbow! The fans fire up while Tama goes to a corner. Knight runs up, but Tama BOOTS him! Tama runs up, but Knight ROCKS him! “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight JABS, JABS, JABS, then winds up to LARIAT! And LARIAT again! Knight whips Tama to the corner, then hits a JUMP NECKBREAKER! Tama staggers into the scoop and POWERSLAM! Knight stares Solo down, then paces around. Time to spell it out: L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH! ELBOW DROP! Knight fires up and Chicago is with him! Knight waits on Tama to rise up, and then Knight catches Tama for the cravat! Tama powers out!
Knight grabs ropes, ELBOWS Tama, but Solo takes a swing! Knight ducks to DECK Solo, but Tama rolls Knight up! TWO!! Knight gets free and spins Tama, B F T!! Cover, Knight wins!
Winner: LA Knight, by pinfall
Solo storms in but Knight gets away! Solo is fuming, Tama is sputtering, but will this be the end of Knight VS the rogues? Or can Jacob Fatu tear down #OneBigSOB and become #1 contender?
Paul Heyman waits in the parking lot.
Byron walks over and asks, “If you don’t mind,” to which Heyman says, “Yes, I do mind.” Heyman is waiting on Roman Reigns and now Byron has to bother him? Byron asks if Heyman got any hints as to the favor. No, and Heyman isn’t sure why. No matter what, the… Heyman stops, and wonders why he has to tell this to Byron. Heyman has the cameraman focus on just Heyman. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am saying this for the record. CM Punk, I’m on record saying this, okay? No matter what the favor is, my answer is yes! Okay?! That’s it! That’s it! So now you can just tell me, and get me outta this jam!”
Wait! The car pulls up as Heyman says whatever Punk wants, that answer is yes! Heyman is elated that The Tribal Chief has arrived, but NOPE! It’s Seth Rollins! The Visionary laughs as he sees Heyman in dismay. Cheer up! Not happy to see Rollins? Oh, right, you were expecting the other Shield guy. Rollins takes off his sunglasses and says Heyman looks awful. We’ve seen Heyman in a bad way before, but this might be the worst yet. He looks like he had a horrible week. Rollins, on the other hand, has actually had a great week. He got away from the CM Punk main event celebration, gained some perspective, and formulate a plan.
And Rollins was just thinking… This favor thing? Heyman really dug himself into a hole, huh? But it kinda affects Rollins, too. So when Roman does get here, let Rollins know, because Rollins wants to be present to hear what the favor is, too. Wipe those tears away, it’ll be alright. Rollins heads out, can things only get worse for The Wise Man?
Charlotte Flair is here!
Chicago is a bit torn on The Queen strutting her way out to the ring, ready to confront Tiffany Stratton face-to-face. What will she have to say to the WWE Women’s Champion? We find out, after the break.
SmackDown returns, and now Wade Barrett is in the ring, mic in hand. But without need for introductions, Tiffany Stratton makes her entrance. And it seems like she chose a very similar outfit to what Charlotte chose tonight… Charlotte is not amused, but Wade says due to the heated nature of recent interactions, he was volunteered to moderate this face-to-face. He gives the introductions for champion Tiffany and her WrestleMania opponent, the 2025 Women’s Rumble winner, Charlotte. The fans boo and “WOO~” and Charlotte hopes Tiff hears that, because that is power! Tiff says, “What time is it?” “TIFFY TIME!”
Charlotte says how cute. Wade says he would like to start with Charlotte. Give us more depth as to why Charlotte chose Tiff as your WrestleMania 41 opponent. And does she still feel, after recent events, that Tiff was the wise choice? Charlotte says Tiff was begging, Charlotte is the gift that keeps giving. Tiff wanted a moment, Charlotte hadn’t done charity work lately. And every week, the desperation leaks through! So yes, Charlotte made the right choice. Because Charlotte wanted to show the “smartest” wrestling fans here in Chicago that there is NO comparison! Tiff asks if Charlotte is done. Did she get the “WOO” in?
Tiff wants Charlotte to understand that her biggest opponent has never been in this ring. Charlotte’s biggest opponent has been the fans. And no matter how hard Charlotte tries, how long she’s out for, that is a battle that she’ll never win. And Charlotte loves to put on the facade that nothing gets to her, that she’s above everything, but then she’s crying on some talk show? Which one is it, Charlotte? And the saddest part of this is, no matter how many titles Charlotte wins, and she could break all the records, but when it’s all said and done, Charlotte will always be second to her dad, Ric. And at WrestleMania, Charlotte comes second to Tiffany Stratton.
The fans chant for “Tiffy Time! Tiffy Time!” and Tiff says that is power. Charlotte wants Chicago to hold on. They and Tiff are just regurgitating the things her previous opponents have said. Chicago, Tiff, and everyone around the world, if Charlotte has to… The fans are still thunderous with “TIFFY TIME! TIFFY TIME!” so Charlotte just smirks. Charlotte says it doesn’t matter if Tiff wins 100 times… Oh, well, the fans are booing so loud. What would Chicago like her to say? This is really cool! The thing is, Tiff could win again and again. But fine, Tiff can have the last word.
Tiff asks Charlotte what Charlotte was doing at 25 years old. She was trying to be a volleyball player, drinking in daddy’s basement. What is Tiff doing now at 25 years old? Walking in as WWE Women’s Champion! Chicago cheers that! Charlotte says this is just another match? Seems like Tiff’s gotten to her. And Charlotte’s WrestleMania record may be 4-3, and the Queen inside this ring, but outside, Charlotte ain’t the Queen of SH*T! Charlotte mockingly asks she can’t hear Tiff cuz she’s so squeaky. Tiff says for 16 more days, Charlotte can say she’s WWE’s least favorite nepo-baby! Congrats! No, she’s the Nepo QUEEN! Number one nepo-baby!
Tiff says when she beats Charlotte at Mania, when it’s all said and done, Charlotte will be just like she is outside this ring: ALONE. What’s that record? 0-3? Tiff gives a “WOO~” and a mic drop, then leaves. Charlotte tries to snap back with, “Is that why Ludwig Kaiser is in my DMs?” Tiff ignores that cheap attempt while holding up the belt. Will nothing Charlotte says or does be enough to end Tiffy Time?
Nick Aldis speaks.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to make a major announcement. In conjunction with Raw General Manager, Adam Pearce, next week here on SmackDown, we will present a Women’s Tag Team Gauntlet Match featuring teams from both Raw and SmackDown. The winners will face Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez for the Women’s Tag Team Championships at WrestleMania.” A golden opportunity awaits, who runs the gauntlet and wins their golden tickets to Las Vegas?
The Street Profits are here!
Chicago cheers as Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins walk in through the smoke, gold in hand as they prepare to watch this next match in person. DIY and Motor City Machine Guns look to settle their grudge while also going for gold, who will meet The Profits for WrestleMania?
WWE Tag Team Championship #1 Contenders Match: #DIY VS Motor City Machine Guns!
SmackDown returns as the introductions are given. The teams sort out and Chris Sabin starts against Johnny Gargano. They circle, tie up, and Sabin wrenches to wristlock. Gargano spins, wrenches, and wristlocks in return, but then Sabin rolls, wrenches, and spins to then slip through. Sabin spins Gargano, steps over, then arm-drags! The fans cheer as Sabin arm-drags again! Gargano tags out to Tommaso Ciampa, but Sabin arm-drags him, too! The fans cheer, Ciampa fights up, but Alex Shelley tags in. Sabin facelocks Ciampa, Shelley goes up, and Shelley AX HANDLES! MCMG double whip Ciampa to DOUBLE SHOULDER TACKLE!
Gargano runs in, but into double mule kicks! MCMG has DIY in opposite corners and whip them in. DIY reverse but MCMG dosido, but DIY dodges! MCMG dodges, and they stereo LARIAT in the corners! The fans fire up while DIY flounders. Shelley has Ciampa in a corner, climbs up, and he rains down fists! The fans count along, but Gargano runs up from the apron! Shelley AX HANDLES Gargano down, then runs up to LARIAT Ciampa up and out! The fans rally, Shelley builds speed, but he has to slide out as Ciampa runs away! Shelley pursues, Ciampa slips in and tags Gargano! Shelley dodges Ciampa, but not Gargano’s SLINGSHOT SPEAR!
Gargano grins and blows out the finger guns, but SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Gargano stomps Shelley into the corner, backs off as the ref counts, but that lets Ciampa CHOKE Shelley behind the ref’s back! Gargano comes back to tag Ciampa in, and Ciampa ELBOWS Shelley. Gargano runs to KNEE Shelley down, then Ciampa runs in and KNEES Shelley through the ropes! DIY soaks up the heat, Ciampa even talks trash on The Profits, then he brings Shelley around. Ciampa tags Gargano back in, they mug Shelley, and Gargano soaks up heat. Gargano stays between Shelley and Sabin, but Shelley CHOPS! And CHOPS! But Gargano ROCKS him in return! Gargano snapmares Shelley down, basement DROPKICKS, then covers, ONE!!
Gargano is annoyed, but he mocks Sabin with the MCMG hand pointing, and a “SUCK IT!” The ref keeps Sabin back, but that lets Gargano put Shelley in the corner. DIY mugs Shelley, but they get away with it before the ref sees. Gargano tags Ciampa, and Ciampa stomps Shelley around. Ciampa CHOKES Shelley on the ropes, then stops at the ref’s count. Gargano BOOTS Shelley down! Ciampa SLAMS Shelley’s arm down on the mat, then tags Gargano. DIY split the wishbone! Shelley writhes and crawls to the ropes, but Gargano drags him up to DECK him! Gargano sucker punches Sabin, then soaks up heat.
Gargano runs in at Shelley to LARIAT, then he snapmares Shelley down. Gargano goes up, AX- NO, Shelley body shots in return! Ciampa tags in, runs Sabin off, but Shelley gets him for a NECKBREAKER! SmackDown returns to single picture as Gargano grabs Shelley’s legs! Shelley BOOTS Gargano away, hot tag to Sabin! The fans fire up as Sabin climbs, and he CROSSBODIES DIY down! Sabin fires haymakers on Gargano, then Ciampa, and repeat! Sabin fires kicks, then he runs, and he breaks through the double clothesline with a JUMP KNEE! Sabin kicks Ciampa, reels him in, and kicks off Gargano to TORNADO DDT Ciampa!
The fans fire up and Shelley holds the way open! Sabin builds speed to DIVE! Down go DIY and the fans fire up! Sabin puts Ciampa back in, then he tags Shelley. MCMG brings Ciampa up but Ciampa fires haymakers and CHOPS! Ciampa runs, but into a JUMP KNEE! ENZIGIRI! KNEE! LEG SWEEP! DOUBLE SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO! Ciampa survives that strike fest but Shelley brings Ciampa up. Shelley tags Sabin, Sabin climbs, but Ciampa pulls Shelley’s hair! The ref reprimands, but Gargano trips Sabin up! Ciampa TOSSES Shelley out, then notices the buckle pad fell! Ciampa takes that pad, the ref stops him from using it as a weapon!
Ciampa says fine, and he brings Sabin up to go for the corner! Sabin stops the buckle bump to kick Ciampa! Sabin runs, rolls Ciampa up, TWO!! Ciampa escapes and PSYCHO KNEES! Then he reels Sabin in, PROJECT CIAMPA!! Cover, TWO!! Sabin survives and Ciampa is furious! Tag to Gargano, Ciampa underhooks Sabin, SUPERKICK FAIRYTALE! Cover, Shelley breaks it! The fans fire up but Ciampa kicks Shelley! Ciampa TOSSES Shelley, then hurries to tag back in. DIY has Sabin down as they go to corners! MEET IN THE- NO, Sabin dodges! DIY stops short of colliding, and Sabin waistlocks Ciampa.
Ciampa switches with Sabin but Sabin BOOTS Gargano away. Sabin then switches with Ciampa to shove ihm into Gargano! Shlley is back, atomic drop! Dropkick to the legs! Chancery and basement dropkick! Dream Sequence complete! Shelley hurries up, Sabin turns Ciampa, but Gargano SHOVES Shelley off the corner! Sabin BLASTS Gagano, Ciampa rolls Sabin up, feet on the ropes! The ref sees that and stops the count! The fans fire up while Ciampa is furious! Ciampa runs in, but Sabin sends him into the bare buckle! Roll up, MCMG WINS!
Winners: Motor City Machine Guns, by pinfall (NEW #1 Contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championships)
Ciampa’s attempts at cheating just cost him and Gargano! MCMG let the Profits know this match is coming, but Dawkins & Ford say go ahead and bring it. Will Sabin & Shelley quickly become TWO-TIME WWE Tag Team Champions? Or will nothing stop The Profits now that they’re up?
The Miz talks with Carmelo Hayes.
The Hollywood A-Lister tells H1M that they need to be ready for an opportunity when it presents itself. Unlike these two. Miz points over to Pretty Deadly! Miz says Elton Prince & Kit Wilson, in their home country, had a title shot and lost! Pretty Deadly? More like Pretty Useless. Melo says, “Imagine getting an opportunity, finally, and fumbling at the one yard line.” Are they a team or just the Chicago Bears? Either way, they’re both jokes. Oh, they’re jokes, huh? Well here’s a joke: The Marine 3. Quick, tag Elton in. Kit “tags” Elton and Elton says, “The Marine 4!” Tag back to Kit, “The Marine 5!” Miz says at least they were made! How’s that musical coming?
Funny Miz should mention that. They just got finished writing this song, and Miz would love it. It is about a character who hasn’t been awesome for at least ten years, if ever. What was it called again? “I was The Miz.” Miz reminds them he is a NINE-TIME tag team champion. How many have they had? Wow, nine times? How many partners did that take? Miz has had so many partners, and now he’s with this younger, hotter model. Miz is like the Leonardo DiCaprio of tag team wrestling. Which leaves them standing here wondering why Melo is so happy to be relegated to The Miz. Kit doesn’t think they’re even a real team.
Miz says this is Melo Don’t Miz! And Pretty Deadly couldn’t beat them on their worst day! Because they are Melo Don’t Miz, and they are AAAAWES-HIM! Melo says they’re working on the catchphrase. But will Melo & Miz prove they’re more than just a struggling sequel? Or will Pretty Deadly light it up like Broadway?
Naomi VS B-Fab!
The Glow’s bright light was hiding the dark shadows, but now we are seeing that dark side loud and clear. Naomi put everyone on notice, but will B-Fab heed that warning? Or will she just be fab in the Windy City?
SmackDown returns and Naomi makes her entrance, only for JADE CARGILL to attack! Jade gets the jump on Naomi now, and she rains down fists on the ramp! Security rushes out here, but Jade fires shots on them now! Jade is a storm of fury but Naomi gets away from her to go to the ring. Jade gets loose, Naomi taunts her, but the bell rings! B-Fab throws Naomi down! Jade smiles, letting B-Fab LARIAT and LARIAT and whip! B-Fab runs in, blocks a shot and she fires forearms! B-Fab bumps Naomi off buckles, then whips her corner to corner. LEG LARIAT! B-Fab whips side to side then BOOTS Naomi down! Cover, TWO!
Naomi survives but B-Fab snarls. B-Fab rains down fists and takes out all her own anger! Naomi gets loose, but B-Fab runs up. B-Fab ROCKS Naomi, ROCKS her again, then SLAPS her! B-Fab clinches, and URENAGES! Cover, TWO! Naomi survives again and B-Fab is furious. The fans rally while Naomi crawls to a corner. B-Fab runs up, but Naomi ducks the leg lariat! Naomi CLUBS B-Fab, has that leg stuck int he ropes, and Naomi fires off shots! Naomi has B-Fab in the Tree of Woe, then STOMPS her into buckles! B-Fab flops down, Naomi drags her up, and RIPCORD CODE BREAKER!! Cover, Naomi wins!
Winner: Naomi, by pinfall
Naomi is seething, and now she grabs a mic. “Where you at, Jade?! I’m still standing!” The fans fire up as Jade runs back in! BOOT! Jade drags Naomi up, chicken wings her, but security rushes in! Jade again beats all of them up, SUPERKICKS and HAYMAKERS left and right! Jade clears the ring, and Nick Aldis hurries out here. he says he has had just about enough. He can see that there is only one solution: Naomi VS Jade at WRESTLEMANIA! Jade is all fired up, and Naomi has a sinister smile. They both want to put an end to this, but who will be left laying in Las Vegas?
Damian Priest speaks.
“Drew McIntyre: the victim. No holes in your logic, right? WrestleMania 40, you had your moment. But your weird obsession took you to CM Punk, and he ended up clowning your ass. I did my job as Senor Money in the Bank: I cashed in and became world champion at WrestleMania. You screwed yourself, but I’m the villain, right? Clash at the Castle should’ve been about us, but this weird obsession you couldn’t let go of, it followed you. I did my job and remained World Heavyweight Champion. You screwed yourself, but I’m the villain, right? Money in the Bank, you should’ve been focused on the moment. You tried to cash in, but your baggage once again followed you.
“I did my job and remained champion. You screwed yourself, but I’m the villain, right? Rumble, Chamber, I eliminated you from both, plain and simple. Then you attack me like a coward, and you cost me my shot at main eventing WrestleMania. You know what you are, Drew? You’re a hypocrite. You make excuses, you bitch and complain, and you point your finger at everybody but yourself. I know what you are, Drew. You’re a junky. You get off on this high from telling stupid ass jokes every week for a cheap ass pop, and you play the victim every, damn, week. You don’t have to paint me as the villain of your story anymore, I am your villain!
“The time to pray IS now, Drew! No looking for me in the shadows. Look for me in the middle of the ring next week, face to face, eye to eye. Because I want you to stop playing the victim and become my victim at WrestleMania!” Priest has issued his challenge, what will McIntyre say to it?
Nick Aldis is in the ring.
SmackDown returns and Aldis says this is a part of his job that frankly, is not very fun. In this industry, there is a fine line between coming back like it’s all fine, and then finding out that you may never set foot in this ring again. It is a cliche, but there is a reason we say, “Don’t try this at home.” Aldis doesn’t want to say much more as he’d rather we hear it from the man himself. Please welcome out Kevin Owens. The Prizefighter makes his entrance to a mixed reaction, but still rather positive.
Kevin steps into the ring with Aldis, grabs himself a mic, and then says, “I’ve been doing this for 25 years, and uh… I think I can say confidently that for those 25 years, I really gave everything I had every time I stepped foot in this ring. And in those 25 years, because of this industry, I’ve gotten to live incredible things, and experienced things I’ll never forget.” Kevin says he’s been able to care for his family in a way he could’ve only dreamed of. But… There is a price to pay for that amazing opportunity. And that is the toll it takes on their bodies. Every single guy and girl back there has paid that price at different times. Now, it is Kevin’s turn.
The fans don’t like where this is going, but Kevin says that the reality is, for the last four months, he has been dealing with a very serious neck injury. No one really knew what it was or how serious it was. Thankfully, this week, they figured out what it was, and now Kevin must go get neck surgery. That is what Kevin will do, and the timing couldn’t be worse. Kevin will tell us, not getting to be in the ring with Randy at WrestleMania really sucks. Kevin is really thankful for the WWE allowing him to come out here and tell us all this, because the truth is, he doesn’t know when he’ll have the privilege to be in front of us again.
What Kevin does know is… The last few years, he has learned not to take anything for granted. He will never take this for granted. The fans applaud, and Kevin continues by saying that for now, he wants to say thank you, and he is sorry. The fans applaud again while Kevin and Aldis shake hands. Kevin takes his leave, fans chant “Thank You, Kevin!” but wait! Randy Orton is here! The vans cheer as The Viper makes his way out here, and he seems a bit emotional himself. Orton goes to the ring, walks up the steps, and he looks Kevin in the eyes. Kevin nods and hops down from the apron to go up the ramp. Is this the last we’ll see of Kevin on WWE TV?
The fans rally up for Randy, and Aldis says he hates to be the one to tell him this, but unfortunately, this means Orton no longer has a WrestleMania match. The fans don’t like that, and Orton doesn’t seem to, either. RKO FOR ALDIS!! Orton is upset, but perhaps that wasn’t the best response…?
WWE United States Championship #1 Contender’s Last Man Standing Match: Jacob Fatu VS Braun Strowman!
The Samoan Werewolf and the Monster of All Monsters have gone back and forth in brutal battle after brutal battle, but this is where it all comes to a head! LA Knight has the United States Championship, so which of these behemoths will completely demolish the other to go for the gold?
Fatu rushes Braun at the ramp and the fans fire up! The bell rings and Braun HEADBUTTS Fatu! Braun whips Fatu into steel steps, Fatu tumbles, and the count begins already. Fatu sits up at 3 of 10, then drags himself up at 5, but Braun is there to CHOP him! Jacob hobbles, Braun follows, and Braun puts him in the ring. Braun storms in but Fatu KICKS him! And SUPERKICKS him! And runs to LARIAT! Braun is down, Fatu rises, and then Fatu goes up the corner! But Braun is up to YANK Fatu down! Braun scoops Fatu, but Fatu slips free to RAM Braun into buckles! SUPERKICK! Braun stays up, but Fatu runs to BODY CHECK!
Braun is down, the count starts, but Fatu hits the BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Direct hit, but Fatu isn’t satisfied! BEST MOONSAULT EVER! Braun is still down, fans want that “ONE MORE TIME! ONE MORE TIME!” Braun sputters at 4 of 10, pushes up off the mat at 6, but then flops back over. Braun rolls out to stand at 8! Fatu goes outside, storms in around the way, but SmackDown goes picture in picture.
Fatu ROCKS Braun with a haymaker! Braun staggers, Fatu HEADBUTTS, but Braun UPPERCUTS! Braun SHOVES Fatu into the steel steps again! Fatu tumbles, but Braun pulls the steps apart! Fatu stands, Braun RAMS him down! The fans fire up with Braun, and Braun RAMS Fatu down again! Braun rips off his shirt and throws it to the fans! Fatu flounders, the count is 7, but Fatu drags himself up at 9! Braun CLUBS Fatu on the back! Braun brings Fatu around to THROW into the Hydration Station! Braun flips Fatu off while the count starts again. Fatu stirs, Braun watches closely, and the count is 6! Fatu stands at 7, so Braun takes the desk hood and SMACKS him with it!
Braun looms near while Fatu is down. Fatu rises at 4, so Braun SMACKS him back down with the hood! Fatu writhes but he sits back up at 5. Fatu stands at 7, but Braun is on him with an UPPERCUT! Fatu staggers around, Braun brings him over to whip, but Fatu reverses! Now Braun runs into steel steps! Braun falls in a heap and the count is on. Fatu goes looking for things while Braun rises at 6. Braun stands at 8, but Fatu SUPERKICKS him! Fatu puts Braun in the ring, then storms in for HEADBUTTS! Braun wobbles, SmackDown returns to single picture, but HEADBUTT after HEADBUTT forces Braun to kneel.
The fans rally up, Fatu runs, but Braun gets under him to SPINEBUSTER! Both men fall over so the count is on both of them! Braun and Fatu both rise at 4, Braun rolls out so he’s on his feet again. Fatu is still down at 6, but Braun gets an idea. The fans cheer as Braun brings out a TABLE! Fatu stands at 9, but Braun slides the table into the ring. Braun storms in and UPPERCUTS Fatu back down! Braun props the table up in a corner, the fans cheer, but Fatu SUPERKICKS again! Braun wobbles, Fatu runs up, but into a BOOT! Fatu is down but rolling, and he makes it to the ropes at 5. Braun runs up but Fatu DUMPS him ojtu!
Fatu builds speed and he DIVES! Braun is sent over the desk! Both big men are down on the outside and the fans fire up! The count rises, Fatu stands at 4, but Braun flounders at 6. Braun drags himself up at 7, and he officially stands at 8. Fatu is right on Braun to POST him! Braun falls in a heap but hurries to get moving. Fatu gets space, and he runs in at Braun, but Braun CLOBBERS him with a chair!! Fatu goes right down and the fans are fired up! Fatu sputters but Braun is on the tracks! STROWMAN EXPRESS through the barriers!! The fans are thunderous as #OneBigSOB just took out the other!
The count is climbing, and we’re at 7 already! Both men flounder up at 8, then stand at 9! The fans fire up as this continues, but SmackDown goes to break.
SmackDown returns and these behemoths are now brawling in front of the bleachers. Fatu rises at 7 of 10, but Braun is on him! Braun UPPERCUTS Fatu, then drags him on top of a road case! This is near the technical area, and while the ref says don’t do it, the fans say definitely do it! Braun suplexes Fatu up, and they crash down through tables!! Chicago loses its mind all over again while the count begins again! We pass 5, then 7! Braun and Fatu only now stir, and we’re 8! 9! Both men stand at 9.9!! Both men stagger around, Braun has a bloody cut on his shoulder, and “This is Awesome!” Braun has somehow made it to ringside, but so has Fatu.
Braun hobbles around, drops to his knees, but he uses the steps to keep going. Braun flounders against the apron, the count is going, and Braun slips into the ring. Fatu is up at 9 again, and he runs up! BODY CHECK through the corner table!! The fans lose their minds again, and the count is back! Both behemoths are down in the wreckage at 5, and then 6! 7! 8! Fatu springs to life at 9! He stands, Braun doesn’t, Fatu wins!!
Winner: Jacob Fatu (NEW #1 Contender to the WWE United States Championship)
The Samoan Werewolf is not only victorious, he is the first man to best Braun in a Last Man Standing match! Will Knight not survive fighting Fatu in Las Vegas?
Backstage interview with Paul Heyman, again.
Byron walks over to The Wise Man, who is still waiting. When exactly is Roman Reigns going to arrive? Heyman mocks Byron’s question, then says it’ll be any minute now. Byron thanks Heyman for that, but will Roman even bother to show? We’ll have to wait and, after the break.
SmackDown returns and…
Finally, another car pulls into the building. And out steps The Tribal Chief! But he blows right past Heyman to head for gorilla. The music hits, the fans fire up even more, and Roman makes his entrance. He doesn’t even take time to raise the one and cue the pyro, because he wants to get right to the business of this favor. Roman goes to the ring, Heyman doing his best to keep up, and Heyman quickly fetches mics for the two of them. The fans chant “O T C! O T C!” Roman paces, then tells Chicago, “ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer and raise their ones to the sky. Roman asks The Wise Man, “Is he here?” Heyman says, “Yes, My Tribal Chief.”
The fans cheer for CM Punk and Roman says yes, that’s who he is talking about. “Wise Man!” “Yes, My Tribal Chief!” “Is he still talking about this favor?” “Y-Yes, My Tribal Chief…” Roman says he doesn’t know how Chicago deals with this guy. “Wise Man.” “Yes, My Tribal Chief?” “Should I share a secret with Chicago?” “Yes, My Tribal Chief!” Roman says CM Punk wouldn’t be back here if not for Roman! The fans boo that, but Roman paces. Roman says CM Punk wouldn’t be in the main event of WrestleMania if not for Roman! And he gets it, Chicago is good people. “He’s from the same city as me, I have to like him! Yay~!”
Roman says Chicago means well but they’re not that smart. CM Punk has been around for forever, wrestled everyone under the sun! Hall of famers, legends, champions, but he’s never been in the main event of WrestleMania. No, he hasn’t. Not until he was introduced to the Tribal Chief! The fans duel between “O T C!” and “C M PUNK!” Roman says that’s right. You hear them chanting for The Tribal Chief in your city. Roman’s in the ring, so bring Punk out here so we can quit wasting our time! Roman wants Punk to come on out so we can hear about this favor! Punk needs to come out here and indulge the Tribal Chief!
The fans chant harder, but “BURN IT DOWN!” plays instead! The fans sing along now with “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as Rollins struts his way to the ring. Rollins steps in and struts around Roman and Heyman to get himself a mic. Rollins revels in the singing, then tells Chicago, “I am a Visionary, I am a Revolutionary, I am… SETH! FREAKIN’! ROLLINS! And I wouldn’t have missed this one for the world, HAHAHAHAAA~!” Rollins doesn’t know what the favor is, but the reality, he feels it’ll knock Roman’s sock off. The thing about reality and Roman is that they don’t seem to jive very well, because unlike all of us, Roman doesn’t like to live in the real world.
But every time Roman steps outside of his little universe, reality bites him in the ass! Rollins won’t do a history lesson, but Example A: The Heist of The Century! Example B: The main event of WrestleMania 40! Fans chant, “What’s The Favor?” Rollins says he’s wondering the same thing, Chicago. But the reality is, Roman underestimated CM Punk. Roman thinks he’s above CM Punk, Roman thinks he doesn’t have to worry about CM Punk. Roman thinks that he can ignore Punk and he’ll go away. Rollins tried that, it doesn’t work, and now Punk is in the main event of WrestleMania, and that is a reality Rollins has to deal with.
Roman could’ve stopped this at WarGames, he didn’t. He could’ve let Rollins stop this at Madison Square Garden, he didn’t. And now, here we are, waiting on the favor. The fans chant for Punk, and Rollins says he’s in a lot better place than he was last week “celebrating” that news of Punk in the main event. Rollins realized that the reality gives him two options: Either you suffer and get left behind, or you adapt and you control reality. Roman isn’t sure what Rollins is getting at. But he tells Rollins the reality here is, Rollins is untrustworthy. Roman could bring up loyalty, but he feels Rollins has no clue what that word means.
CM Punk is here because Roman made a promise to The Wise Man. And Roman keeps his word. The reality is, Roman didn’t call Rollins out here, Roman called Punk out here! The fans sing, “Roman! Roman Reigns~!” Rollins takes off the sunglasses to be serious. Roman called Punk out here, Rollins is here to hear from Punk. So there’s only one thing missing, and that’s CM Punk. The fans chant for Punk, and Rollins steps back as he says time mot hear what the favor is. Punk makes his entrance again and the fans cheer! Punk steps into the ring, wary of Rollins. Rollins keeps his distance, and now Punk smirks at Roman.
The fans cheer on Punk as he has a mic to say, “The favor. What’s the favor? This is about friendship. This is about legacy. This is about promises made and promises kept. This is about… loyalty. Paul, this goes back to 4400 Shepherdsville Road in Louisville, Kentucky, when on day one, I showed up and they told you that I don’t belong, and they told you to fire me, and you said no. And hell, your Wise Man is just that: he is wise beyond his years. Paul, you prophesized this on national television on Monday Night Raw. And if everybody else has forgotten about it, that certainly doesn’t mean I have.”
The fans cheer, and Punk says even before that. Let’s throw it back to the day Heyman left this company on Big Show’s bus. Punk, Heyman, Show, RVD, standing there and talking amongst themselves. And Punk mistakenly made it about himself. Punk told Paul, “They’re gonna fire me! Without you, I’m nothing! Paul, don’t leave!” Paul said no, Punk will be fine. Punk said he is sorry about making it about him, and asked Paul what he could do for him. In that moment, Paul Heyman told CM Punk, “When you main event WrestleMania, force them to deal with us.” Well “they” aren’t here anymore, so Punk will force Roman Reigns, “My Tribal Chief,” out of his comfort zone!
Punk will force Roman to deal with “us.” Heyman is realizing what Punk is getting at. And Punk says in the main event of WrestleMania, in Punk’s corner, it will be Roman’s Wise Man, Punk’s best friend, PAUL HEYMAN! The fans cheer and Rollins says he told Roman this was coming. Heyman remembers back to Raw a decade ago, and Roman is beside himself! Roman says, “That’s the favor?” Roman now laughs! Roman says, “You understand he loves me, right? He needs me! I saved him! Even if I let him, he wouldn’t!” Roman laughs some more and says, “Wise Man.” Heyman responds, “Yes, My Tribal Chief.”
Roman says, “Let this desperate fool down easy, will ya?” The fans duel, but the CM Punk chants return. Punk smiles as Heyman hesitates. Roman is confused and upset, and Heyman is on the brink of tears! Roman asks if Heyman is crying. Heyman better wipe his eyes and tell Punk, “No.” But Heyman tries to explain this out. Roman says he took Heyman, he made Heyman relevant, so tell Punk, “No!” Heyman wipes his eyes, takes a breath, and Roman says he has one more opportunity. “Tell him, ‘no.'” Heyman raises the mic, looks between Roman and Punk, and says, “No, My Tribal Chief, I can’t do that.”
The fans fire up and Rollins is loving this! Heyman says Roman means a lot to him, but so does Punk! Roman backs Heyman into a corner, but Punk goes after Roman! The fans fire up, and Punk fireman’s carries! Heyman is so conflicted, but Punk hits a G T S!! Punk and Rollins stare down while Chicago is thunderous! Heyman is devastated, and Rollins just leaves it at this. The fans boo, but will the Triple Threat main event at WrestleMania be more than enough for Rollins to burn it down?
My Thoughts:
A great SmackDown with some great build, and some sadder news. Kevin Owens’ neck injury and following surgery are all legit, so the highly anticipated grudge match between him and Randy Orton is legitimately canceled. Orton giving Aldis an RKO is certainly one way for Orton to respond. I’m not sure how, but they might improvise some kind of consolation story so Orton can still be part of Mania. Meanwhile, it is great that we’re adding Naomi VS Jade to WrestleMania for their grudge match. Good stuff from them as Jade attacks, Naomi still finds a way to beat B-Fab, and then they brawl again. I almost feel like their match should have a special stipulation given the heat behind it.
Very good promos from Drew McIntyre and Damian Priest to also direct us towards their grudge match. I almost feel like those two need a stipulation, too. I know NXT and Halloween Havoc is where “Spin the Wheel, Make the Deal” has been featured, but this is Las Vegas. Why not spin the wheel to up the ante? Well, that aside, both McIntyre VS Priest and Naomi VS Jade feel very up in the air, either side could win and come away strong enough to go for a title. Speaking of titles, I guess the theme for Charlotte VS Tiffany really is “Anything you can do, I can do better.” And that was perhaps the sloppiest worked-shoot I’ve seen in a long time. Oddly, I think the last one also involved Charlotte…
Fenix VS Frazer was an awesome match, practically PPV level, but naturally Fenix won. Good promo from him after, and good promo from Legado to help set up Fenix’s next match. Fenix VS Berto will be great stuff, and maybe Andrade joins in the story as he’s been trying to convince Berto and even Angel that Santos isn’t really the leader they deserve. We definitely need to see Fenix VS Santos and maybe even Fenix VS Andrade as this story gets going. Also, I like them making a tag team gauntlet for the Women’s Tag titles. The six teams between both Raw and SmackDown (because that’s all there really are right now) all have a pretty good chance, can’t wait to see who wins.
Great tag team match from DIY VS MCMG, and it works that MCMG won. They finally settle things with DIY from when DIY turned Heel, and now MCMG will have a proper tag match against The Profits. Very good promo from Braun and Knight with Solo and Tama, and then a very good match from LA Knight VS Tama Tonga. Solo of course did his best to interfere, and of course Knight wins out. Braun VS Jacob was an awesome main event match, and they made good use of the Last Man Standing stipulation. It was clear Jacob would win given how he cost Braun last week and has basically had Braun’s number since the beginning of this feud. The question now will be, does Solo cost Jacob the title at Mania? And how?
And of course, the big attraction for being in Chicago is everything CM Punk. Great opening promo from him, as well as with Heyman. Heyman waiting for Roman to get Rollins first was a good promo, too. And while a lot of fans were expecting something big for “the favor,” I do give WWE credit for using this as a way to call back to over 10 years (maybe closer to 12?) when Heyman was Punk’s Advocate and did make that promise to Punk that they’d be together for Punk’s WrestleMania main event. This is about as close to a #FinishTheStory moment for Punk as I think we’ll get, but it’s pretty good for all of us longtime fans who were even watching way back when. Punk standing tall tonight is good stuff, too, since it’s Chicago, but it’s still too early to call the match.
My Score: 8.8/10
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Ain’t Nobody Safe!
After costing Dion Lennox, Saquon Shugars looks to redeem himself by taking the NXT North American Championship from Myles Borne!
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- NXT North American Championship: Myles Borne VS Saquon Shugars w/ DarkState; Myles wins and retains the title.
- EK Prosper &
Dorian Van DuxSean Legacy VS Uriah Connors & Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo w/ Birthright; Prosper & Legacy win. - Lizzy Rain VS Nikkita Lyons; Lizzy wins.
- Kelani Jordan VS Wren Sinclair w/ Kendal Grey; Kelani wins.
- Ricky Saints VS Shiloh Hill; Shiloh wins.
PLAY BY PLAY
Robert Stone talks with Shawn Michaels & Matt Bloom.
The NXT General Manager is with the heads of NXT management and wants to get right to the point. Ethan Page, Joe Hendry, Fatal Influence, Sol Ruca, Blake Monroe, and even Ricky Saints, all called up to Raw and SmackDown to make an impact there. Those are big shoes to fill, though, and Stone’s phone has been blowing up from all the talent. But he thinks it is time for some fresh faces, maybe even from Evolve and LFG. Bloom says they have a great crop of international talent looking for their chance. HBK says they’ve done what NXT does, they’ve been through this before many times. Now, Stone can put names on cards, put pictures on the board, and continue to take calls.
Or… He can throw a stick of dynamite into the locker rooms and see who runs out. Stone likes that bold approach. Things are about to change drastically, but who will show up while the others blow up?
NXT North American Championship: Myles Borne VS Saquon Shugars w/ DarkState!
Speaking of, we just saw Myles overcome a member of DarkState when he defeated Dion Lennox, but admittedly, The Sugar Man muddied the waters on that. But will it be clear that Myles will #NeverBreak? Or can Saquon redeem himself by taking this title for himself?
The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see if nobody’s safe!
The bell rings and Saquon runs up! Myles dodges then fires hands! The fans rally for Myles as he UPPERCUTS again and again! Saquon flounders, but then he YANKS Myles! Myles stops from hitting ropes, but Saquon gets around for the NECK JACKER! Myles goes to a corner, Saquon runs up again, but Myles dodges again! Saquon tumbles off buckles, and Myles kicks him low. Myles reels Saquon in for the X-PLEX! The fans rally as Myles then deadlift GUT WRENCH PLEXES! Saquon tumbles again while the fans fire up. Myles storms up but Saquon BOOTS him! Saquon runs, but into a SNAP POWERSLAM! Saquon bails out and DarkState regroups.
But wait! Myles goes AIR BORNE! Down go Saquon & Osiris while the fans fire up! Myles puts Saquon in, but Cutler drags him out! Myles ROCKS Cutler, then he CHOPS Saquon! Myles ROCKS and whips but Saquon avoids the dropkick! Saquon grins and runs up to RAM Myles! Saquon climbs up, he rains down fists, but Myles carries him away! Atomic drop! And LARIAT! Then a wrench and hook, but Saquon hooks the ropes! Saquon turns things around on Myles to backslide him onto ropes! A unique hotshot to say the least, and then Saquon goes up, out, around, and he YANKS Myles into the crossbar!
The fans boo but Saquon skins the cat. Myles sputters, Saquon WRECKS him with a dropkick! Saquon wants after Myles but the ref backs him off! Saquon says screw that, and he goes up onto the desk! Saquon soaks up the heat while NXT goes picture in picture.
The ref checks Myles as he sputters, that crossbar he hit was exposed steel! Saquon still stands Myles up to SMACK him off the desk! Saquon drags Myles up and puts him in the ring for a KNEE DROP! Myles coughs and sputters again, but Saquon lines up another KNEE DROP! Saquon stalks Myles, brings him around, and JUMPING KNEE DROPS! Cover, TWO! Myles toughs it out but Saquon stays focused. Saquon drags Myles up, kicks him to a corner, then stomps a mudhole into him! The ref counts, Saquon stops at 4, and Myles sputters as he leans against the ropes. Saquon storms up but Myles fires body shots!
Saquon CLUBS Myles , turns him, but Myles turns neckbreaker into O’Conner Roll! TWO, and Saquon has the legs to drag Myles under the ropes! ROPE GUILLOTINE! Myles again sputters and coughs while Saquon looms over him. Saquond rags Myles to a cover, TWO! Myles tough sit out but Saquon clamps on with a chinlock. Myles endures, fights around, but Saquon KNEES him in the back! Myles goes to the apron, Saquon storms up, and Saquon ROCKS Myles with a right! Saquon turns Myles around, CLUBS away on his chest, then stops as the ref counts. Myles RAMS into Saquon, and NXT returns to single picture as Myles slingshots to sunset flip!
The fans rally and even duel as Saquon flails to stay up! Saquon breaks free, but Myles avoids the knee drop! Saquon hurries to headlock but Myles powers up, out, then drops down. Saquon hurdles over the backdrop, but turns around into a HIP TOSS! Myles still coughs, and Saquon UPPERCUTS him! Saquon KNEES Myles in the back and Myles is on the ropes! Saquon runs to BLINDSIDE LARIAT! Then slingshot LEG DROP! Cover, TWO! Saquon clamps on with a chinlock and he grinds Myles down. The fans rally while Dion coaches Saquon on the squeeze. Myles fights up, but Saquon wrangles him again! Saquon adds a top wristlock into the hold!
The fans rally again and Myles fights back up. Myles fires body shots, then he runs up in the corner, but Saquon puts him up top! Saquon ENZIGIRIS, then mocks the fans cheering Myles. Saquon climbs up, he neck wrenches Myles, then goes to the very top! The fans rally as Saquon stands Myles up for a SUPER DUPER- CROSSBODY COUNTER!! Cover, TWO!! Saquon survives Myles turning this around and the fans fire up! The fans rally as both men rise, and Myles hobbles his way over to Saquon. But Saquon fights the dragon sleeper to victory roll! TWO, Myles has it, TWO! DROP- NO! Saquon blocks the kick, but Myles twists for a cradle, TWO!
Saquon hits a headlock takeover, Myles headscissors, but Saquon pushes to a jackknife bridge, TWO as Myles bridges up! Myles spins things to a backslide, TWO! Myles reels Saquon in, dodges the lariat, but Saquon UP KICKS while he skins the cat! But Myles DROPKICKS a mile high! The fans fire up as Saquon flops down! The fans fire up as Myles LARIATS again and again! Then EYE OF THE HURRICANE! Myles is all fire dup, kick and FISHERMAN SUPLEX! Bridging cover, TWO! Not quite perfect, and now Dion gets on the apron! Myles swings on him but Dion gets back. Saquon clinches, EXPLODING NORTHERN LIGHTS!
Saquon rolls through to basement DROPKICK! Myles tumbles out, but DarkState argues with the ref? Saquon isn’t sure why, but that’s because Dion has a chair! Saquon shouts at him, “What’re you doing?! I’m trying to win!” The ref spots them both with the chair, and then Myles SHOVES Saquon into Dion! Then BACKDROP for Saquon! Myles SHOVES Dion into the steel steps! Myles slingshots for a BORNE AGAIN!! Cover, Myles wins!
Winner: Myles Borne, by pinfall (still NXT North American Champion)
Just as Saquon tried last week, Dion tried to put the fix in, and it all backfires! What is it going to take for DarkState to get back on the same page? As for Myles, Evolve’s Tristan Angels is here! And he tells Myles congratulations on another successful defense. It truly is very impressive. Now, if you’d allow him to introduce himself, he is Mr. England, Tristan Angels! The fans boo but he tells them, “Order, order! Do not let my good looks have you fooled. For I am here today as a courtesy to let you and all these people know that you will be seeing much, much more of Tristan Angels on NXT from here on out!”
Angels lives- OH NO, KAM HENDRIX ATTACKS! The fans boo as Kam gives Myles the KAMERA SHOT! Kam says he is about that action! NXT is now HIS show, because it’s showtime! Well, the opening left by the call-ups is already being filled, but who will prove they’re not just ready to Evolve, but to reign?
Wren Sinclair & Kendal Grey talk backstage.
The Women’s Speed Champion says first it was Kali Armstrong and Lizzy Rain, and now there’s Tristan Angels and Kam Hendrix! It’s all happening so fast! Kendal says yeah, but good thing for Wren is she’s built for Speed, right? Incoming new talents and she’s no longer the new kid on the block anymore. Kelani Jordan walks in and Kendal asks if she’s good. No, she’s not good. She’s staring at someone who got a two-part Chronicle when she doesn’t deserve it, and someone who has had multiple shots at THE NXT Women’s Championship when Lani hasn’t even gotten one! Not to mention, LANI tapped out Lola Vice, something not even Kendal could do. Lani is the one to beat!
Kendal asks about what happened when she faced Lola again. Oh, that’s right! Lani’s ass got knocked out in the Underground! Even though Kendal didn’t win at Stand & Deliver, she also didn’t get pinned, so she deserves her shot at Lola. Lani sighs and says oh, Wren, clueless as always. They both need to realize there are no such things as friends in NXT! Kendal will turn on Wren just like Charlie did. Oh? How about instead of worrying about the NXT Women’s Champion, you worry about this women’s champion? Lani says okay, they can face off, and Wren doesn’t even have to put up the title. Lani will settle for embarrassing Wren in front of Kendal, who better be ringside to watch.
Lani leaves, Kendal says Lani is just crazy. But will the Standout stand tall over Wren as she aims for Lola?
Tony D’Angelo is here!
The fans cheer as THE NXT Champion makes his way to the ring, stoic and stone faced as usual. He already has a mic to say, “Now the more this place changes, the more it stays the same. And there’s only one thing that’s for certain in NXT, and that’s competitors, they come and go. But ever since I got into this building, I have been the constant. And now that I have this title, there isn’t a man on this roster who is tough enough to kick me off of this mountain!” The fans cheer for that, and Tony says that includes whoever sent him the little box last week. Some fans already ask, “What’s in the box~?!”
Tony says there are competitors from LFG and Evolve jumping Myles Borne, European talents stepping up, Keanu Carver side-eyeing him, but Tony’s more curious about that box. Now Tony ain’t stupid, he knows that wasn’t a gift. That was a warning. Wait! The lights go out! Then a blacklight turns out, and from the stage, a man in a hooded jacket walks down the ramp. The man steps into the ring, and the fans chant “EVIL! EVIL!” The man hands Tony a scroll, then reveals, it IS the former IWGP World Heavyweight Champion, Evil! The scroll is actually a shirt, and on it is simply the kanji for war. Evil has made his declaration, but when and where will these two battle?
But wait, someone else is trying a sneak attack! Tony is quick to dodge, but then that man clinches and BELLY2BELLY! WAIT! That’s Tavion Heights! Tavion says he ain’t asking no more, he’s taking! He is after everything he deserves, and he deserves it all! But hold on, someone is adding insult to injury! MOONSAULT off the top rope! The fans here know him, but will the entire WWE Universe soon learn what is going on?
Shiloh Hill & Tatum Paxley are… somewhere in the woods…
And they’re looking down in a grave they dug. Tatum says, “Here lies the final resting ground for Blake Monroe here in NXT. May the cold darkness engulf her glamorous and narcissistic ways.” Shiloh likes those last words. Tatum says she didn’t want to do it, but Blake made her! Tatum had to end it! At least now they don’t have to hear Blake’s voice. Well, they don’t call it soundproof foam for nothing. RIGHT, BLAKE?! HAHA! But seriously, hopefully Blake’s soul finds peace wherever it winds up. Tatum says in a funny way, she does, too. It’s just… She feels like something comes over her when it comes to this title. Like she goes into survival mode.
Shiloh sits with Tatum and says that makes sense. Sometimes, when we work so hard for things, it feels like they become part of us. And when that thing is threatened, it feels like you’re threatened. Plus, Tatum is the kind of person who forms really strong attachments to things and people. That’s what makes her so fun to be around. Tatum says she never thought of it like that. She’ll figure it out later, but as for Shiloh, he has a big match with Saints! Yeah, he’s so excited! Biggest moment of his life! He’s watched every Ricky Saints match the past six months, even made a simulator to study how Saints strings his moves together. Wow, so cool!
Yeah, but it’s sad, though. It got super realistic, and now the virtual Ricky is a little lonely… But at least now, Shiloh knows what to do to win. But speaking of, he’d love to enjoy this scene… Tatum understands, he can go. Shiloh will kill it. No offense to the deceased here. Tatum says she’ll rest here a bit first. Tatum reclines back, holding her title tight. Will anyone ever stop #TuesdayAddams and her reign? Will #ToothlessAggression give the Absolute a proper sendoff before Saints goes to SmackDown?
EK Prosper & Dorian Van Dux VS Uriah Connors & Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo w/ Birthright!
The Disrespectfully Athletic was definitely disrespected when the entirety of Birthright made sure Lexis King would reign as WWE Speed Champion. And the Muscles from Brussels stepped up to help EK step up to these entitled brats in a 2v2 situation. But before the match, the Drama King himself gets a mic so he can speak. “Hey, there’s no such thing as a slow news day when you are the Fastest Man Alive! And I do have some news to share with y’all, some terrible, terrible news. And y’know, I just wanted to come out here and cheer on my brothers, because they were gonna put on a tag team classic that only generational talent can do.
“But unfortunately for EK, he’s gonna have to prosper all on his own tonight! Because his Belgian bud suffered from a little accident.” They cue up footage, and it was Arianna Grace selfie video vlogging BIRTHRIGHT BEATING DVD UP! Oh no~! The fans boo as they don’t even try to hide what they did! EK makes his entrance and he rushes the ring! EK dodges Lexis, SUPERKICKS Stacks, fires hands on Charlie & Uriah, then SUPERKICKS Lexis! But it’s still a numbers game! WAIT! Sean Legacy is here! #SuperSean rushes the ring to throw hands on Birthright! Things are evening out now, and they TOSS Birthright out! Then they SLIDE Stacks onto the pile!
The fans fire up as legacy is 100% and ready to roll! The ref slides in, and as they say, card subject to change! Birthright is riled up so they’re more than willing to take this fight! Will Prosper & Legacy make sure Birthright gets what they deserve?
EK Prosper & Sean Legacy VS Uriah Connors & Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo w/ Birthright!
Stacks rushes in, the bell rings, and Sean dodges to headlock. Stacks powers up and out, Legacy rolls through the hip toss, then trips Stacks up for a DOUBLE STOMP! And DROPKICK! The fans fire up with Legacy and he whips Stacks to ropes. Uriah sneaks the tag, Stacks sunset flips but Legacy stays up. But then Legacy lets himself roll back to avoid Uriah’s lariat! Legacy blocks Uriah’s kick, hands it to Stacks, then he SUPERKICKS Stacks! Then a GERMAN SUPLEX for Uriah! The fans fire up as Legacy stands Uriah up, CHOPS him, and CHOPS again! Uriah sputters but Legacy snapmares for a KICK to the back! Cover, TWO!
Legacy keeps Uriah from his corner, brings him over to EK and EK tags in. EK goes up, up, and DOUBLE STOMPS Uriah on the back! The fans fire up as EK headlocks but Uriah powers out. Stacks tags in, they drop down and hurdle, but EK ducks the double lariat to NO HAND HANDSPRING! Birthright dodges, but EK comes back to DOUBLE DROPKICK! The fans fire up with EK, and he runs up on Uriah. Uriah puts him on the apron, Stacks trips EK up, and EK hits apron! Uriah BLASTS legacy , then he DIVES! Down goes EK, and then Stacks PLANCHAS! The fans boo but Birthright proves they can fly! They also stand tall while NXT goes to break.
NXT returns as the fans rally for Legacy, but Uriah drags him up. Uriah stomps Legacy back down, kicks him around, and talks trash while he does. Uriah then stands Legacy up to CHOP! Uriah runs up, Legacy puts him on the apron, but Uriah ROCKS him! Uriah goes up but Legacy GAMANGIRIS! The fans rally as Legacy climbs, but Uriah fires body shots! Uriah goes up, calls his shot, but Legacy SUPER BACKDROPS him! Then QUEBRADA into the SAVING GRACE! Both men are down but the fans fire up again! Legacy and Uriah crawl, hot tags to Stacks and EK! The fans fire up as Prosper somersaults to NECKBREAKER DROP Stacks!
EK dodges Uriah to ENZIGIRI! Then he runs up on Stacks, blocks a boot, and DROPKICKS! The fans fire up as EK wrenches Uriah, kicks off Stacks, TORNADO DDT on Uriah! EK gets moving, springboard to DOUBLE QUEBRADA! Then a MICHINOKU DRIVER on Stacks! Uriah SUPERKICKS the cover apart! Legacy BOOTS Uriah! Stacks ENZIGIRIS Legacy! Stacks catches EK to a waistlock, they go to the ropes, and Uriah tags in before EK can buck the O’Conner! Stacks sends EK back into the corner for a GAMANGIRI! Then FLATLINER! Uriah is up top, SWANTON BOMB! Cover, Legacy DOUBLE STOMPS it apart!
The fans fire up but Stacks is on Legacy! “This is Awesome!” as Stacks whips but Legacy stops himself. Legacy DUMPS Stacks out, then runs up on Uriah. Uriah dodges to SUPERKICK! Legacy tumbles out, Uriah builds speed, but Legacy is back! Stacks tags in before the SPANISH FLY! EK SHINING WIZARDS Stacks! EK then goes up, up, and Legacy tags in! MOONSAULT onto Stacks! Legacy hauls Stacks up, for SHAMBLES!! Cover, Legacy & Prosper win!
Winners: EK Prosper & Sean Legacy, by pinfall
But then Birthright attacks, the sore losers! The fans boo but it is a 4v2 mugging! Lexis has them set EK up while Stacks holds Legacy back. Lexis throws hands, but wait! TATE WILDER is here?! And he goes up, up, and away with a DOUBLE MISSLE DROPKICK! The Modern Day Cowboy then SLINGBLADES Lexis! Wilder fires off hands, then he TOSSES Stacks! Legacy has Dempsey while Wilder DOUBLE SHOOTING STAR ATTACKS Birthright on the outside! Legacy TOSSES Dempsey, Lexis scrambles around, and security rushes out here before this gets any wilder than it already is! But has Birthright found out they can’t just do what they want when they want?
The women’s locker room is buzzing.
Thea Hail wonders with all the faces we’re seeing for the men, and with Fatal Influence on SmackDown, will some new ladies show up? Jaida Parker says NXT is literally anyone’s for the taking, so who knows. Meanwhile, Kali Armstrong walks in and asks why everyone’s worried. Jaida says they’re not worried, they’re just unsure. Kali says oh, Jaida Parker is scared of a little competition. What was that? Kali says Jaida is scared! Oh, okay, that’s what Jaida thought she said. But Jaida ain’t ever scared, so Kali better tread lightly. Or what?! Thea says she wouldn’t do that, Kali. Uh, ain’t nobody asked you!
Kali says that’s the problem with the NXT Women’s Division. Kali is gonna be THE difference maker up in here! And if that has to start with checking Jaida, then so be it. Jaida says okay, we’re having none of that. Jaida stands up, Kali steps up, but the rest of the women step in so this doesn’t get physical. But to the point, with all this change, who pulls ahead as the new alpha female of NXT?
Shawn Michaels speaks.
“WWE NXT will soon be available in one place. NXT PLEs will air exclusively on CW starting this summer. All your favorite NXT superstars, the heart pounding action, will be available in one place, and that is only right here on the CW.” HBK drops a big news bomb, but how hot will this summer be now that the CW IS N X T?
Robert Stone talks with Tate Wilder backstage.
Suit Man Stone tells Tate he is “throwing caution to the wind, you look fired up.” They shake hands as Wilder says heck yeah, he’s fired up! Time to let him loose! Then welcome to NXT. Wilder heads out, Lola steps in, and Lola says if Izzi Dame wants to play games, them Lola is about to knock her ass out! The NXT Women’s Champion goes right to gorilla and makes her entrance! The fans cheer as the Mayor of Vice City goes right to the ring, grabs a mic, and tells Izzi, “Last week, you said The Culling was always two steps ahead. You blindsided me, and you think you did your big one. You think you had your moment.”
But Izzi, Lola feels sorry for you! Because Izzi can’t do anything on her own, and the moment she does, she is getting knocked out! Lola is here in this ring, no waiting, no hiding, and she wants Izzi to come out here so everyone can see what Lola’s about to do to her! The fans cheer, and Lola says she already told us she was gonna be the realest champion this place has ever seen! No excuses, just a straight up fight! So Izzi, mama, show her what you got! But Shawn Spears responds on the tron. “Hola, Lola. You really didn’t think this through, did you? Especially after what happened last week. But listen, champ, some free advice.
“If you’re looking to hang on to your NXT Women’s Championship, then you need to stay one step ahead, just like The Culling always is. One. Step. Ahead.” And yes, The Culling is now in the ring behind Lola! Lola says oh, looks like they got her again. Or did they? MR. IGUANA slides out from under the ring, La Yesca in mouth! The fans fire up as Iguana SMACKS Niko with Yesca, then throws her to Izzi! Izzi freaks out while Lola SOBATS Niko! Then SUPERKICK! Iguana RANAS Niko while Lola ROUNDHOUSES Izzi! The Culling is scurrying away as THE AAA Mixed Tag Team Champions are here! Will this dynamic duo teach The Culling a thing or two?
DarkState regroups.
Osiris tries to keep Dion calm, but Saquon is heated. What were they doing?! Is this what Dion wanted? Dion must be real happy now, huh? Dion says no, he was genuinely trying to help out. Saquon says he didn’t need it, fool! Just cuz Dion couldn’t get the job done last week… Oh, now Saquon’s making this personal? Saquon can’t seriously believe Dion would cost him gold on purpose! Saquon says he doesn’t know what to believe, Dion has been acting real weird as of late! Dion says don’t act like Dion never put Saquon on game. Dion gave Saquon HIS tag title, didn’t he? Oh, yeah, a participation trophy, real nice!
Cutler shouts at them both to shut up! They did it Dion’s way, they did it Saquon’s way, and it didn’t work out! Just give it up! Osiris says Dion & Saquon need to get their heads out their asses, that’s why they’re dropping the ball. Now, here’s a new plan. The first gold was tag gold, so let’s go get that back. Cutler & Osiris head out, Dion & Saquon cool off. Will starting from square one be just the thing for DarkState to survive?
Lizzy Rain VS Nikkita Lyons!
The newest star of NXT and the lover of all things heavy metal makes her entrance as she says, “Scream for me, NXT! Lizzy Rain is bringing heavy metal tonight! And the world is about to find out that Lizzy Rain and heavy metal will never, ever DIE!” The fans cheer the rock ‘n’ roll, but Lizzy is going up against #BigKatKita and her love of hip hop. Will this battle of the genres turn out alright for Lizzy? Or will she fail to top the charts in her debut?
The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally as the two tie up, go around, and Lyons KNEES low. Lyons THROWS Lizzy by her hair, then swaggers, only for Lizzy to kip up! The fans cheer as Lizzy dodges then THROWS Lyons by her mane! Lizzy runs up to CHOP, then she reels Lyons in. Lyons fights the suplex wrench and BODY BLOW! Lizzy dodges the lariat to springboard and BACK ELBOW! The fans fire up as Lizzy ELBOWS in the corner, then goes up, up, and BOOTS! Lizzy leaps, but Lyons catches her! Lyons grins, swings, and SLAMS Lizzy down! Lizzy sputters, Lyons roars, HEEL KICK!! Lyons rains down forearms!
The fans are torn but then Lyons YAM SLAMS! Lizzy sputters away but the fans rally up. Lyons runs in at the corner, JUMP PUNCH! Lyons then tells Lizzy that if she wants to head bang, let’s head bang! Lyons dribbles Lizzy’s head off buckles! The ref counts, Lyons mocks the rockstar, but Lizzy CHOPS! Lyons BODY BLOWS, then she SCRAPES Lizzy’s face off ropes! The fans cheer, “Make It Rain!” Lyons says shut up! But Lizzy CHOPS Lyons’ leg! Lyons CHOPS Lizzy, KICKS her down, then covers, TWO! Lyons is frustrated but she clamps on with a half nelson, then the COBRA CLUTCH! The fans rally as Lizzy endures.
Lizzy fights up, but Lyons ripcords. Lyons swings but Lizzy ducks, to then BOOT Lyons away! Lizzy ducks a heel kick, but then so does Lyons! But Lizzy comes back with the ROUNDHOUSE! Lyons sputters and flounders, but Lizzy LARIATS! And LARIATS! Then the Matrix bridge for the CUTTER! The fans fire up with Lizzy, and she’s ready to rock! CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! CHOP, CHOP, CHOP! Fans chant along, “MAKE, IT, RAIN!” MACHINE GUN CHOPS!! Lizzy then fireman’s carries, but Lyons fights free! THRUST KICK! Lizzy staggers, Lyons scoops, and MICHINOKU DRIVER! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally for Lizzy but Lyons drags her to a drop zone. Lyons stomps Lizzy, then she goes up the corner. VADER BOMB FLOPS as Lizzy moves! The fans fire up again, and Lizzy goes up and over, somersaults, then LEAPING HEADBUTTS! Now that’s head banging! Lizzy fires up again, then runs up, THUNDER STRUCK!! Cover, Lizzy wins!
Winner: Lizzy Rain, by pinfall
Lizzy rocked the house and the fans are loving it! But will it be long before Lizzy reigns in NXT?
Myles Borne and Tavion Heights talk backstage.
Myles asks what the heck was that! Which part? Myles getting dropped by Kam Hendrix or Tavion dropping Tony D? Myles says he will handle Kam, but he wants to know why Tavion attacked Tony. Uh, that’s Tavion getting his opportunity! That’s him kicking down the door. But that’s not like Tavion. Oh, so Tavion can’t shine with Myles? The spotlight ain’t big enough for the both of them? As if it wasn’t exactly the same thing Myles did to Ethan. But no, now that Myles has a title, he’s gonna act different. Myles says let’s not do that. What he’s saying is, that caught him by surprise. But Tavion is right, NXT is prime for the taking. There are guys coming from all over!
Like that Tristan Angels guy, Kam Hendrix, and that big guy hitting a moonsault! Tavion says add him to the list, champ. Tavion heads out, but Keanu steps in. Keanu says he told Tony, and now he tells Myles, this place is full of sharks, and they’re circling. And you are looking at the Great White. Keanu heads back out, will Myles have to watch his back from now on?
Vanity Project meets up backstage.
Jackson Drake says, “Beep, beep, beep, beep, birthday alert!” Drake pats Ricky Smokes on the shoulder and Smokes says thanks, guys. But just so they know, Drake says things are looking up. And not just cuz Miss Micah’s tall, heh heh. Brad Baylor says yeah, the reality of it is, NXT is changing. Everyone knows Smokes & Brad have the tag division on lock, so now it is Drake’s chance to stand out. For real! New people jumping railings, out of the sky, dudes offering gifts for title shots?! What?! Drake says now he has Micah. Ever since last week, he just feels he’s on top of the world! No one can touch them! He can take on anything! He’s in there like swimwear!
But then Jasper Troy steps in. The MonStar says, “Talk, talk, talk, talk, talk. Jackson, you’ve got a wide mouth, but not much to show for it. Luckily, your boys have these tag titles. You’re focused on dating apps, you should be focused on gold.” Drake asks what Troy just said, and Troy says someone just got rage baited. If he wants a date so bad, Drake VS Troy in the ring, next week. Troy leaves, Swipe Right says chill. But will Dr. Thirst be able to take a bite out of big bad Troy? Or will Drake be the one facing heartbreak while Troy heads for a title?
Kelani Jordan VS Wren Sinclair w/ Kendal Grey!
The Standout continues to mouth off, but she’s also ready to throw down! Will she score a win on the WWE Women’s Speed Champion? Or will the #WrenQCC prove they’re ready for bigger and better?
NXT returns as Wren makes her entrance, Kendal following. The bell rings and the two tie up, Lani waistlocks and SLAMS Wren down, then floats all over her. Lani rear mounts, then talks trash by saying she knows how to wrestle, too. They tie up again, but now Wren waistlocks. Wren half nelsons Lani, spins her, but Lani powers out of the cravat. Lani runs up, goes for a roll-up, but Wren sits on it! TWO and Lani sunset flips it! TWO and Wren sits on the cover, ONE! Wren runs back up but into a shove! Lani talks trash, but Wren TACKLES Lani! Wren then turns Lani over, hooks up the legs, and scissors a leg for a modified toehold!
The fans rally as Lani endures, but Lani reaches back to headlock. Wren slips free to hammerlock, but Lani fights to her feet. Lani ELBOWS free, then headlocks. Lani hits the takeover, but Wren powers her way tot he headscissors. The fans rally but Lani kips up, only for Wren to wrangle her back down! Lani kips free again, cartwheels, but ends up back in the headscissor hold! Lani kips up again, but is brought right back down! Lani flips over, has Wren’s leg, but Wren floats to a headlock. Lani fights up again, powers out, but Wren RUNS her over! Things keep moving, Lani drops down then hurdles over, only for Wren to catch Lani to a cover, TWO! Lani has Wren again, TWO!
Both women scramble up, Lani dodges to slingshot arm-drag! Wren staggers up into a DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Lani is frustrated, but she brings Wren up to CLUB her down! And CLUB her again! Lani bumps Wren off buckles, stomps a mudhole in, but the ref counts. Lani stops at 4 and Kendal coaches Wren. Lani storms back up but Wren BODY BLOWS! Lani CLUBS Wren down for that, then stands her up. Lani goes to buckle bump but Wren blocks! Wren ELBOWS Lani, then whips Lani to ropes. Lani reverses, Wren RUNS her over, then things keep moving! Basement BULLDOG! Cover, TWO!
Lani stays in this but Wren stays focused. The fans rally as Wren runs up in the corner, but Lani dodges! Lani comes back, but she blocks boots to put Wren int he ropes! Lani CLUBS Wren, then goes up, but Wren avoids the guillotine leg drop! Wren ROCKS Lani, then SOBATS! Lani tumbles to the floor, Wren takes aim, and MISSILE DROPKICKS! The fans fire up for Wren but she hobbles as she stands back up. Wren says she’s fine but we’ll see, as NXT goes picture in picture.
Wren hobbles after Lani, drags her up, and puts her in the ring. Wren rolls in, then runs to tilt-o-whirl and IRON OCTOPUS! Lani endures as Wren pulls on the arm! Lani manages to power her way through and dump Wren, but Wren sunset flips it! TWO, and Lani goes to a corner. Wren storms up, whips corner to corner, but Lani reverses. Wren goes up, but Lani blocks the over to THROW Wren down! Wren writhes and clutches her knee, but Lani pushes her down. Lani stomps away on the bad leg, then DDTS the foot! Wren writhes more but Lani steps on her leg. Lani puts Wren’s leg on the ropes to stand on it again!
The ref counts, Lani stops at 4, then stalks Wren. Lani drags Wren around, hooks the leg up, and SNAP LOCKS it! Wren writhes again but Lani just soaks up the heat. Lani drags Wren around, steps through, and has a standing toehold! Lani endures, keeps her shoulders up, and Kendal coaches her. Wren moves around, kicks at Lani with the free leg, and kicks her way free! Lani hurries back but Wren BODY BLOWS! And BODY BLOWS! And BODY BLOWS again! Lani sputters but Wren whips her to ropes. Lani reverses to kick the bad leg out! Lani then drags Wren back up for a SHIN BREAKER! Wren falls and writhes while Lani soaks up more heat.
Lani drags Wren, snapmares, and she twists the bad leg. Wren endures as she moves around again, and NXT returns to single picture. Lani keeps on the toehold but Wren kicks and kicks and kicks free again! Wren then catches Lani to a cradle, TWO! Lani pulls Wren’s hair, lifts, but Wren sunset flips! TWO, and Lani CHOP BLOCKS the leg! Wren writhes again but Lani doesn’t stop. Lani steps over on the bad leg, but Wren BOOTS her out of the ring! Wren hobbles but Lani is back! Wren jumps the chop block to CHOP Lani! And CHOP again! The fans fire up as Wren DOUBLE CHOPS! And LARIATS! Then she dodges a shot to LARIAT Lani again!
The fans fire up with Wren as she shakes the bad leg out. Wren runs up in the corner to SPLASH! Then BUTTERFLY PLEX! Cover, TWO! Lani survives but the fans cheer on “WREN Q C C! WREN Q C C!” Wren underhooks again but Lani blocks! Lani wrenches out, kicks the bad leg, then brings Wren up again. Lani wrenches and fireman’s carries, but Wren slips free! O’Conner Roll, TWO! Wren flounders but Lani runs up! Wren DUMPS Lani to the apron! Lani KICKS the bad leg again! The fans boo but Lani slingshots for the CUTTER! Wren sputters but Lani goes up the corner! Lani aims for the FROG SPLASH but onto knees! Cover, TWO!
Lani survives the turnaround but Wren hurries to get the arm! FINAL WRENCH!! But Wren’s bad leg won’t let her bridge! Lani is up, and she wrenches Wren into the ANGLE SLAM! Then Lani puts Wren in the drop zone for her ONE OF A KIND SAULT! Cover, Lani wins!
Winner: Kelani Jordan, by pinfall
The Standout took advantage of Wren having one leg to stand on, and now she stands tall. Will Lani make it clear that she gets next when it comes to the title opportunities?
Zaria speaks.
Looking at the burning wreckage that was Sol Ruca’s ship, “Much like a wave, you were a thing of beauty from a distance. But up close, you were drowning me until I finally opened my eyes and remembered who I am.” The vision of Sol fades dithers away, and Zaria says she doesn’t make compromises, she doesn’t let anyone extinguish her. She burned through the tide until Sol was evaporated. And now that Sol is gone, all she sees is the path forward. Zaria will scorch everyone and everything in her way! The Agent of Change is ready to change the landscape, but will she truly shape NXT in her image?
Ricky Saints VS Shiloh Hill!
While the Absolute is already advertised for SmackDown, he has a score to settle here in NXT. Granted, Ricky’s been the one talking down to Shiloh, and was the one who wanted to tip the scales in Ethan Page’s favor against Tony D, only for Shiloh to stand up to him. Will Saints get one last win on his way out? Or will NXT now belong to #ToothlessAggression?
The bell rings and the two circle. The fans rally, but then Saints CLUBS Shiloh while he’s not looking! Saints fires off, then CHOPS and ROCKS Shiloh in the corner. Saints stomps away, but he stops as the ref counts. The fans rally for Shiloh and he fires hands! Saints KNEES low, bumps Shiloh off buckles, but then Shiloh turns things around! DOUBLE CHOP! Saints is stinging but Shiloh whips. Saints reverses and ELBOWS Shiloh down! Saints stomps Shiloh, drags him up, and ELBOWS him! Saints brings Shiloh up but Shiloh fires body shots and haymakers! Shiloh blocks a kick, ducks the enzigiri, and he deadlifts Saints onto the ropes!
Shiloh CLUBS away on Saints’ back, then he winds up to DOUBLE CHOP! The fans cheer as Shiloh KNEE LIFTS Saints to the floor! Shiloh goes out after Saints, brings him up, and CLUBS him again. Shiloh whips but Saints tiger feints on the apron to kick Shiloh down! Saints strikes a pose, but Shiloh crawls under the ring! Saints goes to fetch Shiloh, stomps at him, but then yanks out… a dummy?! Shiloh made a double of himself, and Shiloh CANNONBALLS from the steps! The fans fire up for the unorthodox genius, and he shakes hands with his dummy. Shiloh cradles and dances with his dummy while NXT goes picture in picture.
Shiloh carries his dummy, perhaps nicknamed “Jason” given the mask it wears, and sits it on the barriers. Shiloh goes back for Saints, brings him up, and whips him at the ring again. Saints rolls in, staggers to his feet, and Shiloh scoops to SLAM! Then FIST DROP! Saints scrambles away, Shiloh runs up, but Saints FLAPJACK HOTSHOTS Shiloh down! Saints rains down fists fast, but stops so he can bring Shiloh up. Saints bumps Shiloh off buckles, CLUBS away, then ROCKS Shiloh with a forearm. The ref counts again but Saints snapmares Shiloh down for a JUMP KNEE DROP! Cover, TWO!
Saints is frustrated but he CLUBS Shiloh again. And ROCKS him with another forearm. Shiloh slumps against the ropes but Saints brings him to the corner. Shiloh fires back with body shots and haymakers, and he backs Saints down. Shiloh whips, Saints reverses, and Shiloh hits buckles! Saints hurries to stomp away on Shiloh in the corner! The ref counts, Saints stops, and he again snapmares Shiloh. Saints KICKS Shiloh in the back, then grabs the arms for a motorcycle stretch! Shiloh endures, reaches out, and fights up to his feet. Shiloh RAMS Saints into a corner, then fires off body shots! Shiloh RAMS into Saints, then whips corner to corner.
Shiloh runs up, but Saints dodges! Shiloh hits buckles again, and Saints runs to DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Shiloh survives but saints stays on him. They throw hands as NXT returns to single picture, and the fans rally behind Shiloh. Shiloh ROCKS and whips Saints, but Saints crossbodies, only for Shiloh to catch him! But Saints makes it a DDT! Cover, TWO! Shiloh survives and Saints grows frustrated. The fans rally up while Saints scuffs Shiloh. Saints kicks Shiloh, but Shiloh rises up. Saints reels Shiloh in, REVOLUTION- NO, Shiloh powers out of the DDT, then scoops to POWERSLAM! Both men are down but the fans fire up!
Shiloh rises up, Saints ROCKS him, but Shiloh just roars! the fans fire upas Shiloh DECKS Saints, DECKS him again, then scoops and DROPS him! Whip and scoop, TILT-O-WHIRL SLAM! Cover, TWO! Saints survives but Shiloh drags him up. Saints JAWBREAKERS free, but Shiloh HEADBUTTS in return! And then the IMPLDER SENTON but into a body scissors! Saints has the REAR NAKED CHOKE! Shiloh fights the scissors while the fans rally up, and Shiloh moves around. Saints is a backpack on Shiloh, but Shiloh swings Saints around to back suplex! Saints lands out, ducks ‘n’ dodges, and ABSOLUTE SPEARS! Cover, TWO!!
Shiloh survives and the fans cheer but Saints is furious! Saints fires a forearm, Shiloh fires back, and repeat. The fans rally and even duel as the shots keep going! Saints UPPERCUTS, Shiloh ROCKS Saints, repeat! Shiloh ROCKS, whips, and POP-UP FOREARMS! Saints is down, Shiloh hits the IMPLODER! Cover, TWO! Saints survives but Shiloh snarls. Shiloh goes to a corner, climbs up top, but Saints staggers around. He shoves the ref into the rope to trip Shiloh up! The fans boo and the ref reprimands, but Saints is wily as always. Saints goes up after Shiloh, brings him up to the very top, for a SUPER DUPER PLEX! Cover, TWO!!
The fans fire up as Shiloh survives! Saints is frustrated, but he SLAPS Shiloh around. Saints brings Shiloh over to a corner, SLAPS and CLUBS him, then he goes up the ropes. Saints SMACKS Shiloh, and the fake tooth comes out! Saints goes Old School, but #ToothlessAggression has been activated! Shiloh BOOTS the ropes to trip Saints onto his absolute! Shiloh SHAKES the ropes to make it worse! Shiloh then BOOTS Saints down! Shiloh goes out, but Saints FLAPJACKS him off the steps! Then Saints reels Shiloh in, Canadian Rack, ROSHAMBEAUX on the floor! Saints puts Shiloh in, and he grabs a chair!
The fans boo but Saints doesn’t care, he’s head to SmackDown! The ref stops Saints from using the chair, and Shiloh ROCKS Saints! Drop toehold onto the chair! Then the WHISPER TO THE BEAST! Cover, Shiloh wins!!
Winner: Shiloh Hill, by pinfall
Whether or not the simulator prepared Shiloh for this exact fight, that training certainly paid off! Toothless and ruthless, will Shiloh soon find himself on top of NXT?
Tony D’Angelo meets with the heads of NXT.
The champion sits down with Stone, HBK, and Bloom. Tony says Keanu is right: The sharks are circling, and they got one on him. But y’know what? Tony loves the chaos! HBK says Tony won that title, Tony IS NXT Champion. Now, time for Tony to prove it. Damn right! LET’S EFFIN’ GO! HBK likes the fire as Tony D heads out, but just how chaotic will things get in this new chapter of the silver ‘n’ black era?
My Thoughts:
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Tribal Chief, Samoan Werewolf, and Backlash!
Jacob Fatu stated point blank, he’s coming for that WWE World Heavyweight Championship! How will Roman Reigns respond?
OFFICIAL RESULTS
- PENTA VS Rusev; Penta wins.
- WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch VS Iyo Sky; Becky wins and retains the title.
- El Grande Americano w/ Los Americanos VS Rey Mysterio; Rey wins.
- Grayson Waller VS Oba Femi; Oba wins.
- Bayley & Lyra Valkyria VS Raquel Rodriguez & Roxanne Perez w/ Liv Morgan; Raquel & Roxie win.
PLAY BY PLAY
The OG Bloodline sits down to talk.
The Tribal Chief tells The Usos that he appreciates them coming, being here with him. They know exactly where Roman Reigns comes from, and they know exactly why he stands here today. Roman knows the past is the past, that’s where they’re gonna leave it because they’re blood, and The Usos are the only ones Roman can trust. He needs their thoughts. he doesn’t understand where Jacob is coming from. Roman said it to the whole roster, the family included, that they had two years to take advantage of Roman taking a backseat. And what’d Jacob do? He pushed, procrastinated, then Roman climbed the mountain and beat CM Punk.
Now, Jacob wants to take that from Roman? Help him understand! #BigJim tells #BigUce that he does not disagree. But he also agrees with Jacob. Jacob wants to upgrade his household. Jimmy gets that, they all get that, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of Roman Reigns. Jacob is a different breed. Jey says he’s DANGEROUS! On SmackDown, we all saw Jacob drop MFT one by one by one! Unpredictable, Uce! Unhinged! They left him “out there” for a reason! If Jacob beats Roman, Jacob takes it all! Ula Fala, the family name, Jacob becomes the shot caller! Jimmy debates that but Jey says Jimmy saw it! This is it, Uce!
It can’t be all about respect here. There has to be consequences! Roman’s the Tribal Chief! Roman ponders on the concept of consequences. Jey is right, they’re not doing charity. Roman thanks The Usos for this. He will make it his own, then he will address this later tonight. He appreciates The Usos. They say it is all love and respect, too. Family first, Uce. They all put hands in, for they are the “first family.” Is the Tribal Chief giving Jacob his match at Backlash? We simply have to wait and see.
Seth Rollins is here!
Laredo, Texas cheers as The Architect makes his way to the ring in all black like Neo from the Matrix! The fans sing, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” as Rollins goes right to the ring. Rollins grabs a mic, revels in the singing, then says, “Laredo, Texas! Welcome to Monday Night Rollins~! I am the Visionary, I am the Revolutionary, I AM Seth! Freakin! Rollins!” The fans cheer for that! Rollins continues by saying he has a lot of ground to cover so let’s get to it.
There is a reason he lost to Gunther at WrestleMania, and it is NOT because Gunther was better that night. There is a reason Roman Reigns is walking around with ROLLINS’ World Heavyweight Championship, and it is NOT because Roman pinned Rollins’ shoulders to the mat. The reasons for those things are one in the same, and they have a name, and that name is BRON BREAKKER! Fans boo and bark, but Rollins knows Bron is sitting in the back, NINE staples in his dome, which you can thank Rollins for. But they have business to tend to, a score to settle, so Bron can get his pea brain out here so they can do the damn thing!
The fans cheer as Bron obliges! The Unpredictable Badass storms down the ramp, Paul Heyman following behind. The fans are torn as Bron keeps eyes locked on Rollins as he steps into the ring. Bron stares Rollins down while fans either bark or sing the song, “WHOA~ OH~ OHH~!” Rollins tells Bron, “I gave you everything. I gave you the world, I handed it to you on a silver platter, and you repaid me by taking EVERYTHING away from me! You are the reason I had to forfeit the World Heavyweight Championship, you are the reason I didn’t get to main event WrestleMania this year, and you are the reason I didn’t get my hand raised at WrestleMania this year.
“But I gotta ask you, Bron… For what? What’d you get out of it? How did it benefit you in any way?” Heyman has Bron step back, then hands him a mic. The fans tell Heyman off but Bron says, “You gave me everything? What’d you give me, by the way? What’d you give Reed and I? Because the way that I see it, every single week, we were like you errand boys. We got to come out here and fight all your battles for you, and put out all the fires that YOU started all on your own! Because look around, Seth! You got nothing! You got no one! You got no friends, you are nothing! You needed us to fight all your battles for you!
“And what? You were giving me such great wisdom and all this guidance when every single week, you’d kick off the show, and Reed and I would have to stand in the back and listen to you regurgitate the same crap every single week.” Bron plugs his nose so he can imitate Rollins’ voice as he repeats, “I am a Visionary, I am a Revolutionary, I am Seth Freakin’ Rollins!” Bron wants to make it clear to Rollins that he never needed him or Rollins’ Vision. The only reason they’re standing here today is because Bron needed HEYMAN. Rollins double checks: Bron needed Heyman? “That dried up sack o’ meat? You needed him?”
Rollins almost laughs, and he says Bron just proved Rollins right on everything. Let’s go on a little ride down memory lane. A couple years ago, Rollins is World Heavyweight Champion, he won a fight with the Best in the World, then calls up The Heartbreak Kid. Rollins asked Shawn Michaels about facing NXT’s best, and who was NXT’s best? Bron Breakker. Rollins said hell yeah, let’s do the damn thing! Last year, Heyman comes to Rollins, asks Rollins about taking Bron under his wing and Rollins said hell yeah, that kid with a year under Rollins’ tutelage will be THE next main event star in this industry!
Just look at Bron! Bron’s got it all! Rollins has been here for 14 YEARS, seen athletes from every single discipline, they are big, strong, fast, but Bron is unique. Bron is the biggest, strongest, fastest, most versatile performer Rollins has ever seen here. Bron has EVERYTHING to be THE next big star… except the most important thing. Rollins points to the brain, and Rollins knows better than anyone what it means to be a 28 year old young cat full o’ piss ‘n’ vinegar, thinking this business owes him something, not wanting to wait for nobody. Rollins knows better than anybody to bet on yourself, take chances, make the hard decisions.
But the difference between them is, Bron tries, Rollins succeeds! And do you know why? Rollins will paint a picture: Every time Rollins bet on himself, it ended with a world title or a main event. Bron bets on himself and it gets him Austin Theory & Logan Paul. It gets him steak dinners, private jets, and happy endings from Heyman. Bron tries, Rollins succeeds, because Rollins will say this plainly for even Bron’s pea brain: Bron is NOT ready. Bron says, “I’m not ready? That’s the narrative you wanna go with? I hate to break it to you, superstar, but before all this was a thing, I was well on my way to becoming a main event with or without you!”
Bron never needed that help, and yet you blame Bron for losing the WHC? The truth is, Rollins’ body can’t handle it, his mind is brittle, and his shoulder can’t handle the weight of a strap on it anymore! The fans boo, but Bron grins as he says yeah, he took his shot and came up short. But y’know what? Bron can go to sleep at night a lot better knowing he lost to the Best int he World instead of someone who self-proclaims it! Bron believes Rollins is everything he says, with all the accolades, titles, everything there is to win here. A first-ballot WWE Hall of Famer, no doubt.
Rollins is THE very best pro-wrestler in the entire world… at being number two. The fans are torn, but Rollins says that was pretty good for Baby Steiner. He come up with all that on his own? Or did he call Big Poppa Pump for the hook up? Bron thinks he is ready, but Backlash is two weeks away! Rollins is going to give Bron the opportunity to prove that he is ready. But let Rollins let you in on a little secret that everyone else knows. As a Steiner, Bron’s not even number two in his own family. Rollins drops the mic and heads out, but will Rollins be ready for the backlash of challenging Bron to a match?
Stephanie Vaquer arrives backstage.
La Primera is ready to get back at Liv Morgan, but RAQUEL RODRIGUEZ ATTACKS! La Ruda catches Vaquer with the cheap shot, then THROWS her into road cases! Roxie & Liv are there, and they RAM a road case into Vaquer! Judgment Day stands over Vaquer, and Liv tells Vaquer this is HER title! Judgment Day leaves Vaquer behind, but have they truly moved past her? Or is the Dark Angel only going to be more hellbent on her revenge?
PENTA VS Rusev!
Speaking of revenge, the Man With No Fear may still be Intercontinental Champion, but now he owes The Bulgarian Brute a beating for last week. Will #CeroMiedo withstand the power of MACHKA?
Raw returns as Rusev makes his entrance. But wait, then so does Ethan Page! The fans boo All Ego getting involved in this, but he technically was part of the problem last week. The bell rings and the fans rally as the two tie up. Rusev KNEES and CLUBS Penta while Ethan takes a seat ringside. Rusev suplexes Penta, then drags him up for a GUT WRENCH PLEX! The fans rally for Penta, but Rusev scoops for a FALL AWAY SLAM! Penta tumbles, but Rusev CLUBS him and BOOTS him! Rusev stands on Penta, but only Ethan applauds. Rusev steps off to whip Penta, but Penta KICKS on return! and SUPERKICKS!
Penta runs, DROPKICKS, and Rusev tumbles out! Penta then FLIES! Down goes Rusev, right in front of Ethan and commentary! Ethan mockingly applauds but Penta warns him. Ethan says eyes on the prize, and Rusev back suplexes! Penta lands out to SUPERKICK Rusev again! Penta puts Rusev in, Ethan protests how close that got, but Penta keeps moving. Springboard, but into the MACHKA KICK! Rusev scoops for a SWINGING SLAM! The fans boo, Rusev snarls, and Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again as Rusev has Penta up top! Penta fights the suplex with body shots, then with forearms! The fans cheer as Penta HEADBUTTS Rusev down! Penta then adjusts and leaps, CROSSBODY! Penta keeps moving, he ducks ‘n’ dodges to mule kick a leg! SLING-DOG! Rusev goes to a corner, Penta GAMANGIRIS! Penta sits Rusev down, then runs up to headstand and SWINGING DROPKICK! Rusev sputters but Penta drags him to a cover, ONE!! Rusev still has a lot of gas in the tank, and he KNEES Penta down low! Rusev whips, Penta goes up and over, BACKSTABBER! Cover, TWO! Even Ethan is surprised!
Penta and Rusev rise, the fans rally, and Penta runs up to DEST- NO, Rusev BACKDROPS! Then ROUNDHOUSE! Rusev clinches, URENAGES, and he goes to a corner. The fans boo as Penta stirs and Rusev stomps around. Rusev runs up, MACHKA KICK! Penta falls, but Rusev isn’t done there! Ethan applauds as Rusev shouts, “CRUSH!!” Stomp and ACCOL- NO, Penta slips out, SUPERKICKS, then feints the springboard! Machka kick misses, Penta rolls Rusev up! PENTA WINS!
Winner: Penta, by pinfall
The fans cheer, but Rusev CLOBBERS Penta! Ethan cheers, he is also a sore loser so he likes this! The fans tell Rusev off while he stomps away on Penta! Ethan steps in the ring, takes off his jacket and undoes his cufflinks, but then Rusev glares at him. Ethan says okay, Rusev can have his time with Penta. But then Penta CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOPS! Ethan CLOBBERS Penta! The fans boo as now Ethan and Rusev stomp away on Penta! But wait, here comes Je’Von Evans! The fans fire up as The Young OG DUMPS Rusev out, then RAMS into Ethan! And then springboards to FLYING LARIAT! The fans fire up as Evans taunts Rusev!
Rusev runs up, Penta SUPERKICKS! Evans goes up, up, O G CUTTER!! The fans fire up as Evans kicks Rusev out, and he stands tall with Penta. They shake hands on it, they’ll stand against Rusev & Ethan to clear them out of the way. Will Cero Miedo get BOUNCY~?
Los Americanos speak.
Rayo introduces himself, Bravo, and El Grande himself. El Grande steps forward to say, “In a few weeks, I will be competing in one of the biggest and most important matches in the history of lucha libre against Chaparro Americano, Mask VS Mask!” And he cannot lie, this match will be the most important match of his entire life! The biggest fight he’ll ever have. And y’know what? He’ll have to be ready to fight for his life. And to be honest, there is much more on the line. He must be ready to fight for his name, his colors, for Mexico, and for his home.
And what better way to prepare for that than to issue a respectful challenge to the biggest lucha libre legend ever, Rey Mysterio? It would be an honor to step into the ring against Rey here in Laredo, Texas! That is a GRANDE challenge, but is he biting off more than he can chew facing the King of Lucha?
Becky Lynch is here!
The Man has come around to Laredo, and she is the THREE-TIME Women’s Intercontinental Champion. But what will Becky have to say about her big time WrestleMania win? We’ll find out, after the break.
Raw returns as Becky stands in the ring, still wearing the ring gear from her WrestleMania victory. Becky takes a moment before she says, “The Man, and the NEW Women’s Intercontinental Champion, has come around to Laredo, Texas!” The fans are torn on that, but Becky says we just entered a whole new era of “The Manosphere,” because a lot of history was made at WrestleMania 42! Becky finally got rid of Loser AJ Lee, having ended her horrible title reign, and she put gold around the waist of someone who truly deserves it in herself. She became the first WWE Superstar to win four different titles at Mania.
She became the first-ever THREE TIME Women’s IC Champion! She’s now won more WrestleMania matches than any woman in history! And Undertaker, she’s coming for that streak next! And she proved once and for all why she is the Greatest Women’s Wrestler of All Time, and it’s not just her saying that, other people say it. Sports Illustrated says it, The Bleacher Report says it. All of that is wonderful, all of that is great, but what was most important is that she looked out at a sea of over 50 THOUSAND fans, and she saw her baby girl in the front row.
Becky was able to take her out, walk with her up the ramp, and she realized that she needed to show her daughter what a real champion is. It isn’t about the five-star hotels, the fancy restaurants and the private jets, even though they indulge in all of those. It is not about going to the biggest cities and performing in front of the best crowds. It is also about going to the rundown towns like Laredo and showing out for the commonfolk like everyone here. And Becky knows what they need and what they want. They want a fighting champion! They want her to defend the title! And not just against some nostalgia act or an underdog.
They want Becky VS the best of the best! They want new, exciting, shiny! So Becky stands here before us as The Man of the People, issuing an open challenge to whoever wants to come out here, look them in the eyes and say, “Welcome to the Big Time. Now let’s throw some hands!” Who is it gonna be?! Becky waits, and we get… IYO SKY! The fans cheer that! Iyo gets herself a mic while Becky is rather stunned, and she tells Becky, “I accept!” Becky laughs and asks what Iyo accepts. She wanted to fight the best of the best, the new, the shiny, the exciting. Iyo is none of those things! The fans boo but Becky says that’s for Iyo!
Iyo says no, that’s for Becky! The fans cheer Becky but Becky says okay, okay, she understands. Iyo is accepting on behalf of Rhea Ripley, the part of the team that actually has gold. Is Rhea coming back? Mami VS Becky, Becky Two Belts again. Becky wanted Shawn Michaels, not Marty Jannetty. And clearly, Iyo was holding Rhea back. Iyo SLAPS Becky down! The fans fire up as Iyo stomps Becky, Becky bails out, but Adam Pearce says whoa, hold on, where are you going? The champ wanted a fight, Iyo answered the call, and in case you forgot, we’re in Laredo! So it will be a title match, let’s get a ref, cuz we’re doing it now!
The fans cheer, but Becky CLOBBERS Iyo! The ref hurries in here and backs Becky off. Iyo is still getting her shot, is the Genius about to make The Man’s historic reign historically short, too?
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch VS Iyo Sky!
Raw returns as the match is already going, and Iyo SHOTGUNS Becky down! the fans fire up with Iyo, and she CLUBS Becky on the back. Iyo whips, Becky reverses, but Iyo goes up, only for Becky to BOOT her outta the sky, and LARIATS her down! Cover, TWO! The fans cheer but Becky scowls as Iyo survives. Becky runs up in the corner, forearm SMASH, then clinch for the BECKSPLODER! Iyo bails out but Becky builds speed, and Becky WRECKS Iyo with a dropkick! The fans boo but Becky aims, FLYING FOREARM and down goes Iyo! Becky gets Iyo back into the ring, climbs up a corner, and drops the MAN’S LEG! Cover, TWO!
The fans rally as Iyo survives, but Becky talks herself down. Becky drags Iyo up, clinches again, BECKS- NO, Iyo slips free and ROCKS Becky! Becky fires back with forearms, UPPERCUT, and SOBAT, but Iyo blocks! GERMAN SUPLEX! Becky sputters but both women are down! The fans rally up, Iyo and Becky go to ropes, and Becky runs up! Iyo dodges, and URAKEN! SHOTEI! And then FLAPJACK! The fans fire up for Iyo as she brings Becky up to whip. Becky reverses, but Iyo goes up, out, and ROCKS Becky! Then HOTSHOTS her! The fans fire up as Iyo climbs, to then MISSILE DROPKICK! Direct hit, and Iyo kips up!
The fans fire up as Iyo does her crazy taunt! Iyo then aims at Becky in the corner, SHINKANSEN! Iyo pushes Becky to the cover, TWO! Becky survives but Iyo stays focused. Iyo goes up, up, but Becky YANKS her back down! And dragon sleeper for an EYE OF THE HURRICANE! Cover, TWO! Iyo is still in this and that frustrates Becky. Becky demands Iyo stand, then clinches, but Iyo victory rolls for STOMP 182! Becky bails out, Iyo builds speed, but Becky ROCKS Iyo first! Becky reels Iyo in, but Iyo PELES free! Iyo then runs up, SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMB to the FLOOR! The fans are thunderous while both women are down, and Raw goes to break!
Raw returns again as Becky has Iyo up top! The fans rally as Iyo fights, but Becky SUPERPLEXES! Then roll through for a DDT! Cover, TWO! The fans cheer as Iyo survives! Both women are down, “This is Awesome!” Becky and Iyo stir but it is Becky that stands first. Becky brings Iyo up and clinches again, but Iyo turns the lift into a crucifix, then sunset flip! TWO, Becky ducks the roundhouse but not HEEL KICK! Iyo hurries to underhooks and TIGER BACKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!! Becky survives and Iyo is shocked! The fans rally as Iyo goes to the corner! Iyo goes up, but Becky trips her up again! Becky climbs, but Iyo ELBOWS her away!
Becky staggers but Iyo reels Becky in, TORNADO DDT! Iyo goes up, up, and OVER THE MOONSAULT, but into BOOTS! Becky hurries to clinch! MANHANDLE SLAM!! Cover, TWO?!? Becky is shocked as Iyo survives her best shot! Laredo is all fired up for Iyo but that infuriates Becky. Becky drags Iyo to the drop zone, goes up, but Iyo trips her up now! Becky SMACKS off post, tumbles to the apron then the floor, but Iyo goes right out! ASAI MOONSAULT! Down goes Becky at the ramp! Iyo hurries to get Becky up and in, then takes off a shoe that’s bothering her. Becky distracts the ref, ASUKA TRIPS IYO!! Becky clinches, MANHANDLE SLAM!! Cover, Becky wins!!
Winner: Becky Lynch, by pinfall (still WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion)
The Man survives thanks to a big time assist from The Empress of Tomorrow! Asuka may be without her Pirate Princess, but she’s still pissed at Iyo for her supposed disrespect! BUZZSAW! ASUKA LOCK!! Iyo flails, even taps, but nothing can save her from Asuka’s wrath! Fans chant “We Want Kairi!” but Asuka stands on Iyo with a sinister smile. Will Asuka break Iyo and make her respect her senpai?
El Grande Americano Original talks with Rey Mysterio.
EGA OG says hola to Rey, and knows Rey is fraternizing with that faker, that supposed El Grande Americano Dos. First he endorses the guy, then he has a match against him. Original just wants to know that on May 30th for AAA, Mask VS Mask, does Original have to watch his back? Rey says no, he does not, Mr. OG Grande. Listen, the only thing Rey is looking for is for them all to respect lucha libre. Rey says in Spanish that for a luchador, their mask is everything. All OG Grande can says is si, bueno. But then Los Americanos step into the room! And they ask what Rey is doing with this guy! Rey says it is not what they think.
The Grandes start arguing, both in Spanish and English, but Rey shouts them all down. Tranquilos, cabrones! He is not choosing sides. Rayo & Bravo say he better. Is that a threat?! No, take it easy, jefe, they’re just saying. See you in the ring. Los Americanos head out, Rey is a little annoyed with them and OG Grande, but will the King of Lucha teach them all a thing or two about the culture?
Backstage interview with The Usos.
Byron Saxton is with Jimmy & Jey, and he gets to it: Can they give us some intel on which direction Roman Reigns is leaning towards? #BigJim says the OTC will make his decision when The OTC is ready to make his decision. Jey adds YEET, but LA Knight steps in. The Mega Star hopes he didn’t just hear them say that. OTC, sitting at the head of the table. Knight isn’t here to tear them down but to remind them of who they are. Main Event Jey Uso, a former world champion, and how’d he do that? On his own! Big Jim Uso, also all the potential in the world to be world champion, but how is he gonna do that? Not under Roman Reigns, that’s for sure!
Jey tells Knight to stay in his lane, but Jimmy calms him down. Jimmy told Knight that this is family business. Knight understands that, and he can respect that. But the problem is, the whole Bloodline thing, they had immense power, they run roughshod over everybody. But the problem was, that power corrupts, and when it does, it becomes Knight’s business, YEAH! Knight leaves it at this, but does he have a point? Is The Bloodline about to relapse into their old ways?
Joe Hendry is here!
Laredo waves their hands from side to side as The Prestigious One is in the ring. “Say his name because he has appeared in Laredo, Texas!” The fans cheer, and Hendry knows they know he had a big decision to make, so he wants to tell us all about it in the song. “I’ve won the titles everywhere I go. I’ve been on WrestleMania and many other shows. But the time has come for me to pick one brand. I’m sorry to the others, I hope they understand. Joe Hendry’s on Raw, Raw, Joe Hendry signed to Raw. Raw, Raw, Joe Hendry signs to Raw.
“Next time you turn on Netflix, you won’t just want to chill. I’ll have you believing in a better kind of thrill. Raw, Raw, Joe Hendry’s on Raw. respect to the Ruler, I acknowledge The OTC. But Adam Pearce, if you’re listening, can you make one change for me? That’s Logan Paul, Paul, can we fire Logan Paul? Paul, Paul, can we fire Logan Paul? Everyone! Paul, Paul, can we fire Logan Paul? All together! Paul, Paul, can we fire Logan-” Well, now The Maverick is here, and he says you can’t fire him! You can’t fire him, he’s unfireable! Boo you, Hendry, you can’t fire him! He’s Logan Paul! All of you are awful, just like that song!
Logan says, “You’re awful!” to the fans in the front row. He knows this is Hendry’s first not on Raw, and now it’s also his last! He’s made the worst mistake of his life! Theory then tells Hendry that he isn’t seeing things right. See this right here? That’s gold, that makes them the greatest tag team champions of the world! Of the UNIVERSE! What they’re telling Hendry is that they are winners! Hendry asks if these guys are winners. The fans say, “NO!” Hendry says Joe says no to that. He saw ESPN< he saw Mania, he just saw some primetime losers! Now The Vision is mad, and they throw stuff out of the ring!
Theory says lemme tell you something! This mat belongs to The Vision! The camera that everyone sees through belongs to The Vision. And The Vision goes through everybody! Hendry is in a lucky spot, because they’re gonna go through him! They push Hendry, but he TURNS! LARIAT for Theory! Hendry RAMS Logan into a corner! Theory goes after Hendry, the Vision mugs him 2v1, and the fans boo as they KNEE Hendry low! But wait! Here come the Street Profits! Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins went after The Vision last week, so here we go again! Dawkins DUMPS Logan out before he DECKS him!
Dawkins ROCKS Theory, whips him, REVELATION! The fans fire up and pump it up with Ford! He goes up top but Logan saves Theory! At least, for now. Ford points to Hendry, he HIGH JUMPS to take The Vision down! The fans fire up for Hendry & The Profits, and we all get to wave our hands from side to side! The Profits are believers, but will they also be the hunters when it comes to The Vision and those World Tag Team Championships?
Grayson Waller complains to Adam Pearce.
The Aussie Icon doesn’t like the Raw General Manager just giving people opportunities outta nowhere. That bouncy idiot, Je’Von, is one cutter away from retirement! Then Pearce has one guy singing songs, there’s some little vampire kid cursing people, where are the opportunities for Waller? He’s in the shape of his life, lad! Pearce says he’ll give Oba Femi a shot. Wow, okay, he beat Brock at the END of his career? #Obarated! Uh, no, Oba’s behind you. Waller regrets everything but Oba says if Waller wants a chance, then Pearce can give him one against Oba tonight. Waller says Pearce should’ve warned him!
Pearce says he did, but too late. Waller needs to go get his gear on, because that match is official. Is Waller about to have a Fall From Grace?
Joe Hendry & The Street Profits regroup backstage.
Ford & Dawkins are singing the very catchy, “Paul, Paul, can we fire Logan Paul?” Hendry thanks for the help, what a welcome to Raw. They shake hands on it, and Ford says get a different colored shirt now that he’s on the red brand, you know what he means? Hendry nods and heads out, and The Profits secret handshake. And then Rollins steps in, and he tells them that last week- Ford stops Rollins there, because there he goes thinking this is all about him. Last week wasn’t about him but about those tag titles. Rollins thinking he special. The Profits leave and Rollins does have to consider that.
But either way, will Rollins and The Profits find themselves working together against The Vision? Or is this all going to be for naught?
El Grande Americano w/ Los Americanos VS Rey Mysterio!
The battle of Los Grande Americanos is set for May 30th, and the King of Lucha has ended up in the middle of it all. Will Rey be much more than just a tune-up for El Grande Americano Dos? Or will this El Grande be more than ready to face the other Grande Americano next month?
Raw returns as Los Americanos make their entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally as the two circle. The two tie up, and Grande wrenches to wristlock. Rey rolls, uses the ropes to flip through, then Rey wrenches, only for Grande to wrangle him. Rey kips up to wrench but Grande rolls, spins, and he drop toeholds Rey to then go for the wristlock. The fans applaud the technical exchange as Grande then floats to a cover, ONE as Rey gets an arm up! Grande puts the arm down, TWO as Rey gets the other arm up! Another cover, TWO! A third cover, TWO as Rey bridges! Grande hops on, but Rey stays up! The fans cheer while Grande is stunned!
Grande jumps again but Rey uses that to get up and up and sunset flip! TWO, Grande runs up but Rey sweeps! Cover, ONE! Grande sweeps and covers, ONE! The fans cheer as the two stand off. Rey and Grande applaud each other, then Rey offers a handshake. Grande accepts, but Rey kicks low! Rey whips, Grande reverses to kick low! Grande hammerlocks Rey, brings him around, but Rey fires elbows. Rey cravats to jump and flying-mare! Grande RUNS Rey over! Things keep moving, Rey bypasses Grande to tilt-o-whirl and RANA! Grande’s on the ropes, Rey dials it up, but Grande GAMANGIRIS first! Cover, TWO! The fans rally while Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again as Rey whips Grande to ropes and BACKDROPS him! Grande goes to a corner while the fans cheer, and Rey whips corner to corner. Grande reverses, blocks a kick, and SMACKS Rey! Rey staggers to another corner but Grande whips corner to corner. Grande runs up but Rey BOOTS him! Rey ELBOWS Grande, then goes up, but Grande CLUBS him on the back! Grande gets under Rey but Rey slips free. Grande SMACKS Rey again, whips, but Rey reverses. Grande goes up and over, but Rey goes up to QUEBRADA, but Grande stays up! Only for Rey to TORNADO DDT! The fans fire up while Rey covers, TWO!
Rey is surprised but many are surprised he pulled that counter off in the first place. Rey waits on Grande to get up, then DROPKICKS him onto the ropes! The fans cheer as Rey dials it up, but Rayo distracts so Bravo can trip Rey! The fans boo but Bravo plays dumb. Rayo hurries to sneak Grande his metal plate! Rey DECKS Bravo, then runs to 619 Rayo down! The fans cheer, Rey slingshots, but Grande dodges the splash! Grande grabs the metal plate, but then ORIGINAL GRANDE is here! They tug-o-war over the plate, Rey BLASTS the Grandes into each other! Rey runs again, RANA! Grande Dos is on the ropes, so Rey redials, 619!!
Rey aims again, slingshot and DROP THE DIME! Cover, Rey wins!
Winner: Rey Mysterio, by pinfall
El Grande Americano Dos tried to lie, cheat and steal, but Rey spots the metal plate! And he even tells Original that no one is getting it! They’re gonna have to fight fair ‘n’ square in May! Well for now, Grande Original CLOBBERS Grande Dos! The fans fire up as these two brawl while they grapple! Producers and refs rush out here but fans want to “Let Them Fight! Let Them Fight!” The Grandes are separated, but the animosity between them is only growing! Who proves they are El Grande Americano Superior on May 30th?
Asuka speaks.
“Iyo, did you think you were done with me? I say when we’re done! Because I am still your senpai. All I’ve done is try to help you and all you’ve done is disappoint me. For so long, I blamed myself for your mistakes. I thought I did something wrong for you to turn your back on me. But I finally realize YOU are the problem! You are ungrateful, selfish, and my biggest failure. But I didn’t fail you, you failed me. You failed your family! And now, we’re both alone, because I didn’t want another Iyo. I’ve spared you until now because I thought we could be a family again. But now that you killed that family…NOTHING will stop me from destroying you!
“So, at Backlash, I fix my failure. I teach you one final lesson. And that lesson is… You are not and will never be ready for Asuka!” The grudge match is finally set, but will the Empress of Tomorrow make sure Iyo has no future? Or will the Genius prove that she’s left her senpai behind long ago?
Grayson Waller VS Oba Femi!
The Aussie Icon likes him a good “shoey,” but he stuck his foot in his mouth this time. Grayson wanted an opportunity, but will he even survive against The Ruler that conquered The Beast?
The bell rings and the two circle. The fans already chant “O~BA!” as he blocks Waller’s kick. Oba LARIATS Waller, TOSSES him to a corner, then fires body shots from all sides. Oba UPPERCUTS Waller, whips him corner to corner, then UPPERCUTS again! Oba runs corner to corner for another UPPERCUT! Oba keeps going, but Waller bails out! The fans boo, but Oba has Waller at the apron. Waller HOTSHOTS Oba, then somersaults, but into the SHOTPUT BOMB! Oba UPPERCUTS Waller back down and the fans fire up! Pop-up, and FALL FROM GRACE!! Cover, Oba wins!
Winner: Oba Femi, by pinfall
Waller wanted on the card tonight, but maybe he regrets it. At the very least, Waller learned Femi isn’t #Obarated! Oba has the mic to ask Laredo if they’re feeling good tonight. The fans cheer because indeed they are! Oba says they’re feeling good, he’s feeling good, Waller isn’t, but we don’t care about how Waller feels. Waller did say something that was right, though. There is no opportunity around here, because all the big champions are locked in with contenders, the US Champion doesn’t do open challenges, so Oba is going to take it upon himself to create a solution to the problem. Ladies and gentlemen, as of today, the Oba Femi Open Challenge will commence!
The fans cheer, and Oba says to any man back there who wants to prove himself, step up! If you want to see how you fair at the top of the mountain, step up! But Oba will not take too kindly to their decision. Because he will be merciless, unforgiving, and relentless! He will punish them! They are not stepping to just any man, but to OBA FEMI! The fans cheer as Oba makes himself equal to a title! Will anyone be able to overthrow The Ruler?
Judgment Day is in the clubhouse.
Liv, Raquel & Roxie are still feeling great after what they did to Vaquer, because THEY run Raw! Vaquer found out the hard way, and so will BayLyra. Liv asks Raquel for time alone with Roxie. Is this about the thing? Yes, it is. Raquel says sure, she’ll go finish warming up. Raquel heads out, and Liv says hey to Roxie. Liv wanted to finish the conversation they tried having before WrestleMania. Remember? Before Vaquer smacked their heads together? Right, yeah. Well, really, Liv just wants to apologize to Roxie.
Liv is sorry for how things went down with Finn while she was gone. She knows Roxie and Finn were close, and that must’ve been hard watching from home. Liv knows how that felt, because she sat at home watching Finn bring Roxie into the group. And Liv wants Roxie to know that they are family, but Finn put himself before the family. That is not something Liv would do to Roxie, she wants to support her like Roxie supported Liv. So Liv will be in their corner and cheer them on as Roxie & Raquel get one step closer to the tag titles. Liv takes Roxie’s hand and asks, “Do you trust me, my little Roxie?”
Roxie nods yes, but then says she needs a second. Liv says okay, see you out there. Liv heads out, saying this is exciting. But Roxie doesn’t seem so sure. Wait, FINN is in the clubhouse?! Roxie tells him he’s not supposed to be here, but Finn says Roxie CANNOT trust Liv! In fact, she can’t trust anyone in the Judgment Day! Roxie asks if she can’t trust them, or can’t trust Finn. Roxie is with Judgment Day, she has a match coming up, so he has to go. Finn says good luck with the match, and hopes she knows what she’s doing. Finn leaves, but is The Prince right about them all?
Bayley & Lyra Valkyria VS Raquel Rodriguez & Roxanne Perez w/ Liv Morgan!
The Role Model & Morrigan fell short of the tag titles at WrestleMania, but Judgment Day wasn’t even in the match! Who proves themselves worthy of the next opportunity with a win tonight?
Raw returns as Judgment Day makes their entrance. The teams sort out and Bayley starts against Raquel. The fans rally as the two circle, tie up, and Bayley wrenches to wristlock. Raquel swings, Bayley ducks, and she puts on the pressure. Raquel powers Bayley to a corner, ROCKS her, then whips her corner to corner. Raquel runs up but Bayley BOOTS her! Bayley headlocks but Raquel blocks the takeover! Raquel lifts Bayley but Bayley fights that with fists. Bayley jumps to tornado takeover! They roll, Raquel fights up, and Raquel hits a BIG back suplex! Raquel looms over Bayley but hears the fans chanting, “We Want Roxie!”
Raquel points to the corner, the fans cheer, so Raquel tags Roxie! The fans cheer even more now as the Judgment Day mugs Bayley! Roxie stomps away, the fans cheer her on, but the ref counts. Roxie backs off, but Bayley lifts Roxie! Roxie kicks and flails but Bayley RAMS Roxie into the corner. Tag to Lyra, she and Bayley mug Roxie, and the fans boo. Lyra headlocks Roxie but Roxie pulls hair. Roxie headlocks and the fans cheer her on. Lyra powers out, but Roxie cartwheels over the dropdown! Roxie takes a bow, then SLAPS Lyra! Lyra CLOBBERS Roxie and rains down fists! Laredo boos but Lyra whips Roxie to ropes.
Roxie tilt-o-whirls through to RANA, but Lyra handsprings through that! Lyra SLAPS Roxie in return! Liv tells Bayley to shut up but Lyra whips Roxie to the corner. Roxie dodges, but Lyra grabs her by the wrist! Tag to Bayley, scoop and BACKBREAKER, but Roxie knees free! Roxie SMACKS Bayley, but Lyra WHEEL KICKS! Bayley goes back up, MACHO ELBOW! Cover, TWO! The fans cheer as Roxie survives, and she bails out to regroup with the others. Judgment Day avoids Lyra’s dropkick, and Raquel CLOBBERS her! But Bayley fires off on Roxie! Bayley puts Roxie in the ring, but Raquel trips Bayley up!
Bayley POSTS Lyra, all while Roxie distracts the ref! Judgment Day is in control as Raw goes to break.
Raw returns again as both Bayley and Raquel are down! The fans rally as both women crawl, Liv coaches Raquel, hot tags to Roxie and Lyra! The fans fire up, but then Lyra CROSSBODIES Roxie and GAMANGIRIS Raquel! Lyra LARIATS Roxie, dodges Raquel, and goes up to MISSILE DROPKICK! Lyra kips up, then clinches Roxie, NORTHERN LIGHTS! Roll through for the fisherman BUSTER! Cover, TWO! The fans cheer as Roxie survives! Liv coaches her team on but Lyra drags Roxie up. Lyra brings Roxie over, tags Bayley, and Bayley fireman’s carries while Lyra climbs. Roxie slips free, SHOVES Bayley into Lyra, then tags Raquel!
Roxie runs, tilt-o-whirls, and clinches, Raquel adds as BOOT to the LEG SWEEP! Cover, but Lyra SPLASHES onto it! The fans rally again and Raquel crawls, hot tag back to Roxie! The fans fire up again as Roxie BLASTS Lyra, SOBATS Bayley, then hops up and hops on! But Bayley SMACKS Roxie off buckles! Then a BAYLEY2BELLY! Cover, Raquel breaks it! The fans cheer, Lyra runs up and CROSSBODIES Raquel and herself out of the ring! Liv shouts at Bayley, but she gets caught! The fans cheer, but then Liv HOTSHOTS Bayley! Roxie SHINING WIZARDS! Then the POP-ROX!! Cover, Judgment Day wins!
Winners: Judgment Day, by pinfall
Laredo cheers their hometown hero, but it was certainly a team effort as always for Judgment Day! Will nothing stop them from having all the gold again?
Roman Reigns heads to the ring!
Laredo, Texas puts up their ones to the sky as The OTC makes his entrance. The WWE World Heavyweight Champion stands on stage, raises the title to the sky, and the pyro goes off. But what has he decided when it comes to him and Jacob Fatu? We’ll find out, after the break.
Raw returns as Roman is in the ring, and he raises the belt again for the second round of pyro. Roman grabs a mic while the fans chant “O T C! O T C!” The fans then shift to singing, “Roman, Roman Reigns~!” then go back to “O T C! O T C!” Roman enjoys that for a moment before he says, “Y’see, it’s been awhile since I’ve been here in Texas. But if you can’t tell from home, they love their Tribal Chief here, baby!” The fans cheer that! Roman continues by saying, “They made this title in spite of me. They made this title to try and take away from my shine. But it never worked. Y’see, there’s an old saying and it’s very true.
“The title don’t make the man, the man makes the title!” The fans cheer that, too! Roman says that’s what he’s done with this strap! He’s put it in the main event! He’s put it on night two of WrestleMania! He’s made this title relevant! See, now you can finally be proud of this title. Now you can respect this title! Now, you can actually choose to acknowledge this title. “As a matter of fact, let’s demonstrate. Laredo, Texas…!” The fans erupt with “O T C! O T C!” Roman says it again, “Laredo, Texas… ACKNOWLEDGE ME!” The fans cheer again! But then Jacob Fatu makes his entrance! The fans cheer again as The Samoan Werewolf arrives!
Jacob goes right to the ring while the fans chant “FATU! FATU!” Jacob and Roman stare down, and Roman says, “Fatu, right on cue. Perfect timing, I was just getting to you. I gave you a week, gave you time to think. I’m hoping you made the right choice, Jacob. I’m hoping you made the choice to unite our family, and not divide it.” Jacob has a mic to say Roman gave him a week but he didn’t need a week. He didn’t need a day. Hell, he didn’t even need an hour! He knew exactly what he wanted when he came out here last Monday. Jacob didn’t stutter, didn’t hesitate, when he said he doesn’t want the title, but that he needs the title.
What? Is Roman stuck in his WWE main event bubble? Is he stuck in Tribal Chief Land? Roman ain’t grind like Jacob! Jacob is uncut and raw! 12 YEARS of hard work, 12 YEARS of grinding, 12 YEARS of suffering, not knowing when the next meal was gonna be! While y’all was running things up here as The Bloodline, Fatu was foaming at the mouth, grinding, on the frontlines, trying to figure out if he was gonna be here or not! The fans cheer that, and Fatu says it ain’t how you start but how you finish. And that has Fatu standing here in front of Roman. So before WWE, Roman didn’t call, Jimmy didn’t call, Jey didn’t call.
You know who did call? Solo Sikoa! The fans boo that name but Jacob says Solo gave him a chance! Roman says, “Solo?! Either you’re completely confused or you’re dumber than I think. Solo couldn’t get a cup of coffee delivered to the building if he wanted to. Take a look around. Who you think runs this place?” The fans chant, “O T C! O T C!” Laredo ain’t lying, OTC runs WWE. And yeah, he’s been distracted, things get hectic around here, but Roman never forgot about Jacob. Roman signed off on Jacob. But Jacob’s sounding confused, sounding like a fool. Jacob doesn’t deserve it, he hasn’t earned it.
Roman allowing Jacob to compete against him is nepotism! And Roman can’t allow- JACOB GRABS ROMAN BY THE FACE! The fans freak out as the TONGAN DEATH GRIP grinds Roman down, but then Roman SMACKS him with the mic! Fatu just shakes it off?! TONGAN DEATH GRIP!! Roman sputters as Fatu HEADBUTTS away! Fatu chokes Roman right out, and he tells Roman, “I am going to take everything, EVERYTHING, from you!!” Fatu finally lets Roman go, and he picks up the belt. Fans are torn, but the decision should be clear now. Roman coughs and sputters but he grabs the mic to shout at Jacob!
“You want me at Backlash?! I’ll see you at Backlash!!” The fans cheer, and the match is made! The Samoan Werewolf has made The Tribal Chief into his prey, but will he have what he’s really after in the world title? Or will The OTC punish Fatu for this insolence?
My Thoughts:
A very good Raw that was a bit toned down on the action after that hot Raw After Mania. Great bookending with the OG Bloodline, though I’m not sure about the set-up of Roman & Usos sitting at the table that was more like a press conference table than a meeting. But Jimmy and Jey each having a different side of the argument was good, this builds a bit on what we saw before Mania when Jey was telling Roman to “get him” in reference to CM Punk. And great ending with Roman and Jacob, where Jacob is already done with talking, and he brings out a submission type move to make himself even more menacing. It’d be rather shocking of Fatu actually wins at Backlash, but I feel like Fatu losing and joining Roman is too much of a rehash of everything we’ve already seen in the Bloodline Saga.
Very good match from Penta VS Rusev, and very good win for Penta, but Ethan Page and Je’Von Evans getting involved made sense. That’ll be a great tag match, and I bet we’ll sort out who is challenging Penta for Backlash through that match. Very good promo from Rollins and Bron to set up their match, I appreciate Bron’s perspective because that is how it looked and felt and was definitely not how it should’ve been even in kayfabe. I feel like Bron wins out to then send him to the world title after Backlash. Another great song promo from Hendry, and honestly a great over-the-top angry reaction from Logan Paul for it. Profits helping Hendry out was logical and very good stuff, and Profits putting Rollins in his place was also good. But yeah, there’s gotta be a Six Man Tag there, too.
Waller getting upset only to get humbled by Oba is classic wrestling trope, and Oba making his own open challenge is also great. That’s in the same lineage as like Andre the Giant daring people to body slam him when he knows they couldn’t, or even Chris Masters and the Master Lock Challenge. This will give us some really fun matches while also building Oba up towards a title opportunity of his own. Becky wanting her own Open Challenge series is good, and Iyo challenging her tonight was probably their best way to improvise from releasing Kairi Sane and ruining their own story of Kairi, Iyo & Asuka. The fans are already starting #WeWantKairi, not sure WWE will listen this time, but Asuka VS Iyo is happening for Backlash and that’s all we can really expect.
Very good stuff with Los Americanos, this ended up a great plug for the AAA story of Mask VS Mask. Rey Mysterio being part of the story was good, too, and Rey keeps himself afloat with this win. Gable Americano of course got involved in the match, he and Kaiser Americano are even in math right now, but I would think Gable loses to finally be exposed. And great stuff with Judgment Day, from the attack on Vaquer to the tag match as the main event match. But I’m a little confused as to the Finn & Roxie part. Finn and Roxie should’ve discussed how their ultimate plan was still working. It should’ve been revealed that Finn really did bring Roxie into the group to mess with Liv x Dom. They can still have Roxie turn on Judgment Day in the most pivotal moment, but now it’ll be a bit confusing as to why.
My Score: 8.8/10
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WEDNESDAY - The Greg DeMarco Show (wrestling)
THURSDAY - Nefarious Means
FRIDAY - DWI Podcast (Drunk Wrestling Intellect)
SATURDAY - The Mindless Wrestling Podcast
SUNDAY - 30 Mindless Minutes
CHAIRSHOT RADIO NETWORK PODCAST SPECIALS
Attitude Of Aggression Podcast: The Big Five Project (chronologically exploring WWE's PPV/PLE history) Unidentified History (Ufology) & Game Gone Wrong (Game of Thrones Universe)
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4 Corners Podcast: Did The Red Sox Panic?
Dave & Patrick discuss a seismic shift in Boston as the Red Sox clean house. Plus, NFL Draft thoughts and...
4 Corners Podcast: NHL & NBA Playoff Preview
Dave & PC Tunney preview the NHL & NBA Playoffs!
4 Corners Podcast: The Masters, NBA & MLB
Join Patrick and Dave weekly as they explore the 4 Corners of the American sports scene.
4 Corners Podcast: College Madness
The guys recap the Final Four, discuss March Madness expanding, and discuss an Executive Order that the guys actually agree...
4 Corners Podcast: Return to the Dance
Illinois & Arizona return to the Big Dance. Plus, lots of other March Madness talk, the latest Tiger Woods debacle,...
Bandwagon Nerds #338: Impossible Choices
Your favorite Nerds review the season finale of Invincible, as well as continuing their review of Daredevil: Born Again and...
Bandwagon Nerds #337: Parallels & Purpose
The NERDS continue to review Invincible, Daredevil, and The Boys. Plus, we take a look at the new trailer for...
Bandwagon Nerds #336: Invincible, Daredevil, The Boys… Oh My!
Don't miss the Bandwagon, NERDS!
Bandwagon Nerds #335: Glenn Gets His Revenge!
The Nerds check out trailers for Master of the Universe and Supergirl, and break down tremendous episodes of Invincible and...
Bandwagon Nerds #334: To Hell and Back Again!
The Nerds go to hell and back again as we cover diabolically good episodes of Invincible and Daredevil: Born Again!
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