What will Der Ring General demand in the rematch?

Before Gunther gets another shot at Cody Rhodes and the Undisputed WWE Championship, he will announce the special stipulation he has chosen!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• 2026 Queen of the Ring Opening Round Fatal 4 Way: Charlotte Flair VS Jade Cargill VS Sol Ruca VS Lyra Valkyria; Charlotte wins and advances.
• Brie Bella & Paige VS Fallon Henley & Lainey Reid w/ Jacy Jayne; Brie & Paige win.
• AAA Cruiserweight Championship: Rey Fenix VS Axiom; Fenix wins and retains the title.
• Tiffany Stratton & Chelsea Green VS Mia Yim & B-Fab; Mia & Fab win.
• 2026 King of the Ring Opening Round Fatal 4 Way: Jey Uso VS LA Knight VS Royce Keys VS Finn Balor; Jey wins and advances.

PLAY BY PLAY

Cod Rhodes arrives.

And Nick Aldis is there to see him. The American Nightmare says lay it on him: Have we heard anything from Gunther yet? The SmackDown General Manager says hard to believe, but no, Gunther has not said anything about the stipulation. But Der Ring General did assure Aldis that we find out tonight. Cody says he’s beaten Gunther before, let’s have a good SmackDown. Cody moves on from Aldis, but The Usos are there. Cody offers a fist bump, Jey gives it, and says good to see you. Now check this out. Jey’s got King of the Ring, he’s gonna win the whole thing, and when he does, he’s coming after that WWE Championship at SummerSlam. Just business, Uce.

Cody says he hopes Jey is right. If anyone deserves to chase this title, it’s Jey. But he also hopes this is Jey’s decision and not Roman’s. Cody heads out, and it seems Main Event Jey still has a lot to prove. Will Jey YEET three opponents and take one step closer to the throne?

Rhea Ripley is not medically cleared!

The knee injury suffered from the Euro Tour and exasperated by Clash In Italy is keeping the WWE Women’s Champion out of action for now, but hopefully she will be back to 100% very soon.

Backstage interview with Jade Cargill & The Baddies.

Cathy Kelley is with The Storm and brings up that in mere moments, she has her Queen of the Ring Fatal 4 Way. As last year’s winner, does she feel pressure going for the repeat? Jade says yeah, but she built her career off of pressure. Does Jade have anything to worry about? Mia Yim says no, ma’am. That’s right. Because if Jade did it once, she can do it twice. They proved to Charlotte last week who the real queen is, and they showed Tiffy what time it is when you try to cut the line and mess with a future two-time WWE Women’s Champion. Jade tells Rhea that she’s looking forward to getting her lick back. Rest up, and they’ll see you at SummerSlam.

But wait, Charlotte’s music hits first! The Queen is making the first move, will she be able to take #ThatB1tch off the board? Or are they both overlooking the other two elements in the Fatal 4?

2026 Queen of the Ring Opening Round Fatal 4 Way: Charlotte Flair VS Jade Cargill VS Sol Ruca VS Lyra Valkyria!

The bell rings and the fans fire up as the four circle. Jade swings and ROCKS Charlotte, ELBOWS Sol, but Lyra jmps on for a SLEEPER! Sol storms up, Jade guzels, but Charlotte BOOTS Jade! Lyra jumps back on for the SLEEPER, but Jade RAMS her into a corner! Sol & Charlotte DOUBLE BOOT Jade into Lyra, then they reel her in. Jade stops the suplex to DOUBLE SUPLEX them! The fans are torn, but Lyra leaps! Jade catches the crossbody to FALL AWAY SLAM her into Sol! Jade kips up, mocks the Charlotte “WOO~,” but Charlotte stands up. The fans fire up as Charlotte eggs Jade on, and she dodges a shot to fire off CHOPS!

Charlotte CHOPS and CHOPS and CHOPS, Jade shoves back, but Charlotte dodges to GERMAN SUPLEX! Jade flounders, Charlotte kips up, and the fans cheer! Charlotte then hauls Jade up, but B-Fab trips her! Michin helps drag Charlotte out, and the Baddies mug Charlotte! The fans boo, but ALEXA BLISS is here! And she runs down the ramp to dodge Fab and ROCK Michin! But Fab goes after Bliss, and the Baddies mug her, until TIFFANY STRATTON rushes out here! Tiff dodges Mia to ROCK Fab! The fans fire up again, but Tiff gets mugged. Tiff THROWS Mia over barriers, Bliss and Fab brawl up the ramp!

Jade says that’s fine, her girls have this, But then Charlotte CROSSBODIES her down! Cover, Sol and Lyra break it! The fans rally up while all four women are down, and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns as Jade CLOBBERS Sol! The fans boo but Jade soaks up that heat, only for Sol to roll her up! TWO, but Sol kicks low, CLUBS Jade, then dodges to UPPERCUT! Sol CHOPS away on Jade, but Jade shoves her away. Sol ducks ‘n’ dodges to springboard, CROSSBODY, but Jade manages to roll through with Sol! Th efans fire up, but Lyra SHOTGUNS Jade down! Sol covers, Lyra breaks it, and Lyra TOSSES Sol out! Charlotte returns but Lyra LARIATS again and again. Lyra whips, Charlotte reverses, but Lyra cartwheels through! ENZIGIRI! The fans fire up as Lyra kicks Sol, brings her in, and FISHERMAN BUSTERS!

Jade kicks Lyra, then suplexes her, but Lyra DDT COUNTERS! But then NATURAL SELECTION on Lyra! Cover, Sol SENTONS on it! The fans fire up while Charlotte goes to a corner. Sol runs up, Charlotte dodges, but Sol ELBOWS back! Charlotte GAMANGIRIS! Charlotte whips Sol, Sol reverses, but Charlotte tumbles up and out! Charlotte BOOTS her way back in, then goes up the corner! But Sol GAMANGIRIS back! Sol goes up, out, then back up, to then fire hands on Charlotte! Charlotte SHOVES Sol, Sol lands out, but Lyra SHOVES her into Charlotte! Then ENZIGIRI! Lyra springs up after Charlotte, but Jade gets under Lyra!

The fans fire up for the TOWER OF DOOM, POWERBOMB SAMOAN DROP VARIANT! Jade covers Charlotte, TWO!! Charlotte survives and Jade snarls as she brings Charlotte up. Jade pie faces Charlotte, “This is Awesome!” as Charlotte rises up. Jade guzels, but Charlotte ROCKS Jade! And CHOPS! And ROCKS again! Repeat! Charlotte winds up but Jade ROCKS Charlotte! Charlotte dodges the next shot, then HANDSPRING LARIATS! The fans fire up for Charlotte and she grabs a leg, but Sol MISSILE DROPKICKS her down! The fans fire up, and Sol kips up! The fans fire up with Sol as she waits on Jade.

Jade runs up, Sol hurdles her! Lyra rolls Sol, TWO! Sol kicks and whips, then runs in at the corner, but Lyra puts her on the apron! Lyra DECKS Sol, then she builds speed to WRECK Jade! But Sol is up top now, ARIHARA MOONSAULT onto everyone else! The fans fire up for Sol, she claims the crown, but she hurries to get Lyra into the ring. The fans fire up as Sol aims, springboards, and FROG SPLASHES! Cover, TWO! Lyra survives and Sol grits her teeth while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Sol stalks Lyra, and pulls her into a DRAGON SLEEPER! Lyra endures being bent back, and Charlotte headscissors Sol to THROW her down! And THROW her again! And again! Then a cover, ONE, and Sol has it now! TWO!! Charlotte escapes in time, sees Sol on the apron, and runs up. Sol jumps over to TARANTULA! And she doesn’t have to let go because it’s No Disqualifications! But then Lyra DROPKICKS Sol down! Lyra hooks the legs, turns Sol over, and she grabs the arms! MEXICAN SURFBOARD! But Jade BOOTS Lyra down! Jade smothers Sol in a cover, TWO! Charlotte CLUBS Jade! Jade UPPERCUTS Sol before going after Charlotte in a corner.

Jade RAMS Charlotte again and again, then CHOPS! Jade storms over to Sol, SMACKS her off buckles, then stomps away! Jade digs her boots in, then stops so she can go to Lyra. Jade CLUBS Lyra, CLUBS her again, then digs her boot in! Jade stops so she can snapmare Lyra down, and KICK her in the back! Jade paces, brings Charlotte up, and she CLUBS Charlotte! Then RAMS Charlotte! Then RAMS her again! Jade waits, runs in, and ELBOWS Charlotte down! Jade talks some trash before she stands Lyra up. Jade runs in and ELBOWS! Then she runs up on Sol, but sol dodges! Sol runs up, but Jade catches her! Back suplex, but Sol lands out!

SmackDown returns to single picture as Sol rallies with ELBOW after ELBOW! Sol keeps moving, but Jade SPINEBUSTERS! Cover, TWO! Jade is stunned, but she drags Sol to a drop zone. Jade goes up, but Charlotte ROCKS her! Charlotte climbs up, CLUBS her, then reels her in. Sol goes up after them, and she helps Charlotte with Jade! DOUBLE SUPERPLEX! All three are down, but Lyra hurries back in! Lyra drags Sol to cover, ONE!! Lyra hurries to bring Sol back up, whips her to a corner, then runs up, but Sol slips outside! Sol GAMANGIRIS, Charlotte runs up, but into a BOOT! Sol springboards, 450 DOUBLE LARIAT!!

The fans fire up, but then Jade BOOTS Sol down! Jade stomps Sol, she drags Charlotte up, and Jade chicken wings the arms! JADED!! Cover, LYRA SHOTGUNS JADE! Lyra brings Jade up, fireman’s carries, but Jade fights fere! Jade TOSSES Lyra, out, BUT SOUL SNATCHER ON JADE!!! Cover, LYRA YANKS SOL OUT! Lyra won’t let Sol snipe her again! Lyra goes up, up, and PERIPETEIA!!! But NATURAL SELECTION on Lyra!! But then Lyra makes that a GHOST PIN! Cover, TWO?!?! Charlotte escapes, Lyra fireman’s carries! But Sol SUPERKICKS Lyra! Charlotte BOOTS Sol! Lyra runs up, but Charlotte catches her! FIGURE FOUR!!

Charlotte bridges, puts on the pressure, and LYRA TAPS! Charlotte wins!!

Winner: Charlotte Flair, by submission (advances to the next round)

The Queen reminds everyone why she’s a living legend, and she rounds out the final four! But can Charlotte earn herself a golden ticket one way or another by defeating the Women’s World Champion, Liv Morgan, in the next round?

Tiffany Stratton returns backstage.

Cathy Kelley hurries over to ask why Tiff bothered to help Charlotte & Alexa with The Baddies. Tiff says she won’t pretend like she’s besties with Charlotte, but they can agree on one thing: They don’t want Jade as champion. But then The Baddies find Tiff! Mia & Fab run up, but then CHELSEA GREEN jumps in, armed with a kendo stick! The Hot Mess says back off! They wanna fight?! She and Tiff aren’t afraid of you! Chelsea will talk with Nicholas, he’ll make this a match! The Baddies back off, and Chelsea says no need to thank her. Tiff is surprised all the same, but will she and Chelsea handle Jade’s minions as a team?

The Usos talk backstage.

Jimmy hypes Jey up for the King of the Ring! And then in steps Jacob Fatu. What’s he doing here? Fatu says he’s here on behalf of The Tribal Chief. Yeah? That’s funny, Roman already called the play, and the play is Jey handles business on his own. YEET. Well good. Cuz Fatu ain’t here for Jey. Fatu is here to speak with Solo. What? Yeah, matter o’ fact, what’s Jimmy doing here? Jimmy is making sure no one gets involved. Okay, okay. Then handle y’all’s business while he handles his. The Samoan Werewolf heads out, what exactly will he discuss with the Would-Be Tribal Chief?

Blake Monroe speaks.

“Dear Diary, let’s talk about Charlotte Flair. Charlotte, I’ve been watching you as a part of the history Women’s Evolution. You are truly one of the greats. And with Alexa Bliss by your side, well, you’re a match made in codependent heaven. I mean, what a farce. You’ve deluded yourselves into thinking you’re stronger together, when you’ve only turned soft, weak. Friends aren’t something I’ve ever burdened myself with. True stars shine brighter alone, and my beauty is blinding. Hold on tight to each other, girls, because The Glamour is coming to SmackDown. Yours Truly, Blake Monroe.”

Nick Aldis is on the phone.

He tells the other side that they’re just waiting on Gunther’s stipulation. In fact, they’re about to find out right now. Aldis ends the call as Gunther steps into his office. Okay, everything is set for the rematch next week in Kansas City. All they need is his stipulation. So lay it on him. Gunther says they’ve only established one thing: They can’t trust Aldis’ vetting of the officials. So for Gunther’s match next week, a match so very important, he cannot trust Aldis’ judgment. Gunther will handpick his referee. Well, okay, fine. Who is it going to be? Oh, Aldis really wants to know? He’s contemplating, but he’ll let us know by the end of the night.

Der Ring General smirks as he makes his exit, but how do we know Gunther will be the one playing fair?

Backstage interview with Finn Balor.

Cathy Kelley says The Prince is officially part of the SmackDown roster as he enters the King of the Ring, but she wanted to ask, how is he feeling about being on Friday nights? Finn says he could not be more excited! This new chapter doesn’t erase the past. He has old friends here, and a lot of old enemies. But first thing’s first. He enters KOTR- Oh, R-Truth steps in. Truth says Finn even brought Raquel Rodriguez with him! She lost some muscle. Must be working out with Dom. But welcome to SmackDown, dog! Judgment Day is back together again! Truth, Finn, Mami & DP! They can’t wait to see you! Tom ‘n’ Nick, though, who really cares.

But Truth says he is hoping Finn can help bring Royce into the club, y’know? Truth had to sell merch, swim with sharks, and constipate a wedding. Wait, doesn’t he mean consummate? Truth isn’t sure that’s PG. Damian Priest steps in and Truth says see! The team’s back together again! Priest “welcomes” Finn to SmackDown, and Finn says he’s still “happy” to be here. Truth says this is awkward, huh? Cuz Truth & Priest are tag champs. But it’s okay, Finn will become King of the Ring! And they can build the clubhouse in the castle, behind the moat. Finn says he has a match to get ready for, then heads out. Truth says love you, Finn!

Priest says he knows Truth is a good dude and he wants to help everyone, but Priest thought he knew Finn, and look what Finn did to him. Look, Priest & Truth are the tag team champions, that’s all that matters. Next week, they face MFT, and when it is over, they will STILL be tag team champions, because it is just Priest & Truth, that’s all they need. Truth says classic Judgment Day. Live, laugh, love. The OG Judgment Day gonna rise again! Truth smiles, full of hope, but will the hopes be in vain?

Brie Bella & Paige VS Fallon Henley & Lainey Reid w/ Jacy Jayne!

Speaking of tag team championships, the Women’s Tag Team Champions were jumped during their photoshoot, and now they’re having a match with the new girls! Will SmackDown still be on #ScreamMode? Or will the Fatal Influence be that much closer to a hostile takeover?

SmackDown returns as Fatal Influence makes their entrance. The teams sort out and Brie starts against Fallon. The fans rally up for Brie as she circles with the Toxic Cowgirl, but the Southern Belle distracts her. Fallon kicks Brie, bumps her off buckles, and Fallon taunts Paige. Fallon goes back to Brie to whip corner to corner, but Brie goes up and around to LARIAT! Brie bumps Fallon off buckles, then keeps Fallon from Lainey. Fallon breaks free, Brie dodges a shot, and Brie RUSSIAN LEG SWEEPS! Cover, ONE, but Brie facelocks. Tag to Paige, the champs double whip, then Brie sends Paige in for a KNEE! Brie adds a SMACK!

The champs DOUBLE BULLDOG Fallon, then Paige KNEES her down! Cover, TWO! Paige drags Fallon back, Fallon kicks her away, hot tag to Lainey! But Paige drop toeholds Lainey, then HEADBUTTS! Paige brings Lainey over, tags Brie, and Brie KICKS! And KICKS! And KICKMS! “YES! YES! YES!” Fallon runs up but Brie dodges to DROPKICK! Brie and Paige coordinate, KICKS and KNEES on repeat! “YES! YES! YES!” Brie stops the kicks and Paige lets Fallon flop down as the ref counts. Brie waistlocks but Lainey bucks the O’Conner, then she runs up! Fallon distracts the ref while Brie dodges, and that lets Jacy trip Brie up!

The fans boo but the Toxic Rockstar gest away with one. Lainey DOUBLE STOMPS Brie down! Lainey rains down fists, then she LEG DROPS! Lainey drags Brie over, bumps her off buckles, and she tags Fallon. Lainey sends Fallon in for the UPPERCUT! Fallon sends Lainey in for an UPPERCUT! Snapmare and SLIDING FOREARM! Cover, TWO! Brie toughs it out but Fallon drags her up. Fallon cravats but Brie fires body shots. Brie whips, Fallon reverses, but Brie KICKS back! But Fallon BODY BLOWS! Lainey distracts the ref as Brie goes for her corner, and the ref misses the tag! The fans boo as the ref stops Paige from coming in!

The fans boo but Fallon brings Brie over, tags Lainey, but Brie fights back! Fatal Influence double kicks, double whips, then FLAPJACKS to BLOCKBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Brie toughs it out but Lainey taunts the fans and mocks “YES!” while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again as Brie and Fallon trade forearms back and forth! Fallon kicks low, but Brie still ROCKS Fallon! Fallon ROCKS Brie, Brie ROCKS Fallon again and again, then leaps, but Fallon keeps her from Paige! Fallon throat chops Brie, tags Lainey, btu Brie still fires forearms! Brie DECKS Lainey, BOOTS Fallon, btu Lainey reels Brie in! Brie fights the suplex, manages to suplex Lainey, but Fallon saves her! But Brie dodges them both, hot tag to Paige! The fans fire up as Paige rallies with LARIATS, then hits a THESZ PRESS and fast hands on Lainey! Paige slips around Lainey to SNAP GERMAN! Then she reels Lainey back in, FISHERMAN BUSTER!

The fans fire up with Paige, “This is MY house!” THRUST KICK on Lainey! Cover, TWO! Paige hurries to tie up those legs, P T O! Lainey endures, but Fallon drags Paige off the hold! Paige THROWS Fallon out, Lainey rolls Paige! Both women stand., Paige spins Lainey to hoist up and RAM-PAIGE!! Cover, Fallon breaks it! But Brie MISSILE DROPKICKS Fallon for it! But Lainey SWEET TEA KNEE! Paige rolls Lainey, the ref is too busy with Brie and Fallon! TWO, and Lainey SUPERKICKS Paige! Tag to Fallon, Fallon whips, and FLAPJACK! Lainey runs, but Brie DUMPS Lainey out! Fallon storms up on Brie, Brie ducks the shot!

Paige trips Fallon! The ref argues with Brie, Paige turns Fallon over, P T- NO, Jacy drags Fallon to safety! But the ref sees that! Jacy panics, but the ref EJECTS her! The fans cheer, he finally does something right! Jacy freaks out, but Fallon snatches Paige! But Brie tips the cover for Paige! Cover, PAIGE & BRIE WIN!

Winners: Brie Bella & Paige, by pinfall

Jacy is beside herself! Fatal Influence tried a little too hard to cheat this one and it all backfires! Will nothing stop these ring veterans from rolling through the summer?

Sami Zayn vents to Johnny Gargano again.

Wearing his new “The Last Real Good Guy” shirt, he says you’re damned if you do, damned if you don’t. If he doesn’t help, he’s the bad guy. But if he does, and it still ends up with him paying the price! And all with his supposed friend, Cody Rhodes! He swears, at a certain point, you gotta start asking yourself some serious questions. Candice LeRae is there and says yeah, serious questions. Like, when are you ever gonna get up and do something about it?! Sami says yeah, he WILL do something about it! He’s gonna talk to Cody and clear the air once and for all. Thanks, Johnny. Sami heads out, Candice wonders if she’s invisible, and Gargano is still down. Will Johnny Wrestling ever get back up?

Danhausen is back in the laboratory.

And The Very Nice, Very Evil Overlord is visited by Los Garza! Angel y Berto were looking for him. He has to recurse the Knicks. What? No, no, he just uncursed them. Angel pleads with Danhausen, they put so much money on the Spurs, and Spurs winning would get them a HUGE payout. Why would Danhausen care? Well… Berto hands over a bag FULL of “human money.” That’s just a signing bonus, if you catch their drift. Also, think about the Mexico national soccer team for the World Cup while you’re at it. Um, sure, Danhausen will consider it. Los Garza head out, and then Matt Cardona steps in.

Cardona tells Danhausen he needs to keep the Knicks uncursed, no matter what Los Garza says. Danhausen does agree, but he will need more human money. Cardona doesn’t have money. But that IS a nice watch. Cardona says fine, anything for the Knicks. He gives the watch over, but then Kit Wilson storms in! Kit says he has been gone two weeks, and look what Danhausen did to The Miz! Kit yanks Miz into the room, and Miz’s hair is standing on end, with a white streak through it! And he keeps saying all his old catchphrases, like “HOORAH!” and “Be Jealous!” All from that electrocution that happened!

Danhausen says he likes that hairstyle. Kit says reverse this now! Danhausen will try something. Miz, what do you think about Danhausen? “AWESOME~!” NO, he is NOT awesome! Stop this! “When my hand goes up, your mouth goes shut.” No, Miz, please! Zone in. “Master! Inspire! Zone-In!” That’s close… Danhausen likes this Miz. Really? Really? Really? TOXIC! TOXIC! Kit loses his cool, takes a pipe and SMASHES equipment, but then KIT gets zapped! Ooh… Well, see you later. Danhausen hurries away while Kit spasms. “AWESOME~!”

Sami Zayn heads to the ring.

The Last Real Good Guy is doing just as he said, he is ready to talk things out with Cody Rhodes. Sami is happy to see there are some, some, fans who are on his side as they sing along with the song. Sami grabs a mic as he steps into the ring, and he hears the conflict between cheers and jeers. Sami says, “I gotta say, a little bit of a strange reaction considering I was in Europe for the last couple of weeks. And I’m not comparing the European crowd to the American crowd, I’m not doing that. But… I will say that the Ride or Dies showed up in full force for me in Europe, alright?

“But look, you’re here, I’m here, you have two choices right now. You can either sit there with a sour look on your face and boo me, or you can ride or die with the Last Real Good Guy! I hear you! I hear you! Ride or die, baby!” Sami continues to say that as much as he’d love to party with Providence’s day ones, he is here because something has been brewing and it has to end. Sami wants to clear the air once and for all with one man, and he knows he’s there! C’mon out, CODY RHODES! And so, Cody makes his entrance! The fans sing along with Kingdom, “WHOA~ OH~!” Cody gets his pyro, he high-fives the fans along the ramp and the front row, then continues to the ring.

We get the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro before Cody steps into the ring to join Sami. Sami says he doesn’t mind, and the fans continue to cheer Cody. Cody asks Providence, Rhode Island, “What was The Dunk, now The Amp, one of my favorite arenas on Earth, and you know why! My good friend, Sami Zayn… Whaddya wanna talk about?” The fans cheer, and Sami asks Cody not to do that. Don’t do this. Don’t be The American Nightmare and just be Cody with him, his friend, so they can have this earnest and honest conversation. Because it feels like there’s a pattern developing over the last few months of what Sami will call “misunderstandings.”

It’s a series of situations where Sami finds himself helping Cody, and over and over, Sami pays the price for it. The fans sing for “Cody, Cody Rhodes~!” and Sami acknowledges that. But Cody, you made Sami feel like the worst person in the world when he watched Gunther choke the life out of Cody and Sami just let it happen. Even though, in all honesty, that particular night, that is what Cody deserved. The fans boo but Sami says he’s just being honest. But then last week, the same position, Sami saves Cody, and how does that end? Sami still ends up on his back and Cody is standing tall. And it all just keeps happening over and over!

So at some point, Sami has to ask himself, “Is this an accident?” Sami wants Cody to tell him the truth. The fans chant, “Sami Sucks!” Not as many Ride or Dies here as he thought… Cody says Sami is asking him to basically explain pro-wrestling, which Sami doesn’t need explained, because he’s one of the best in the world. No, Cody means that. Accidents? These were all in the confines of a match, this is competition! And then Sami asks Cody to turn it off? Sami calls Cody out in a public forum, wearing his brand new WWE merch, which Cody believes more than Sami does apparently. Turn it off? That’s what they should do?

And besides, they shouldn’t be standing here like this. Think two years ago, the biggest moment of Cody’s entire career, something he thought would never happen. WrestleMania 40, a memory he shares with Sami. Sami says yeah, let’s be clear about that moment, though. Sami wasn’t just “some guy,” he was the first guy in the ring that night when Cody finished the story and won the title. Before Kevin Owens, before Jey Uso, LA Knight, John Cena, or Randy Orton! And let’s be honest, if anyone had reason to have sour grapes, it was Sami, but Sami didn’t! e was happy! Even to this day, he’s happy for Cody! Y’know why? Because Sami is a GOOD GUY!

Sami was happy for Cody, he really was. But all those guys he just listed, how many of them are still Cody’s friend now? It just gets Sami wondering, is the problem all those guys? Or is it Cody? Cody says everything is about change, Sami knows that. You gotta be better than the day before. Sami stops Cody and says he wants Cody to level with him. Cody says he is leveling with Sami. When this title gets involved, from Kevin to Randy to Cena, Cody could not be honest with them that he needs to be honest with Sami. Yes, that’s what Sami is asking for! Just be honest for once! Don’t talk in platitudes, don’t grand stand, just-

Cody shouts, “Do you want me to be honest with you?! You want me to be honest?! I’m standing out here for this, I’m taking all this fire, listening to this BS! Here’s me being honest with you! They are booing you, they are chanting ‘Sami Sucks,’ and the reason is that lately, you DO suck! You’re whining, you’re crying! You’re not the Sami Zayn that they fell in love with, you’re not the Sami Zayn they took a ride with! You’re not MY Sami Zayn! You’re something else! If anything, you are desperate! Let’s not pretend that it’s about anything, anything, between you and I other than the WWE Championship.

“And I owe you an apology. I am sorry. I’m sorry that I have this, and that that means you never will.” Sami SLAPS Cody for that! And even Sami is stunned! Sami tries to apologize, but Cody paces and scowls. Sami gets close to Cody to tell him he’s sorry, and he shakes his head to take ownership. Sami tries to hug Cody but the fans chant “SAMI SUCKS!” And Cody SLAPS Sami! Cody asks if they’re good now. They got it out of their system? Sami nods, then steps out of the ring. The fans boo, but Sami paces on the outside. Then Sami grabs a chair and storms into the ring! The fans fire up, they wanna see this! But then Sami hesitates.

Sami drops the chair, hops off the apron, and storms off. The fans boo again, but Sami is doing what he can to maintain his friendship with Cody, and with the integrity he swears to have. But will there come a time when none of that matters?

Jacob Fatu finds Solo Sikoa.

Solo asks what he wants, and The Samoan Werewolf says he has a message from The OTC. About what? Solo, it’s been way too long, and long enough. Roman needs Solo to come home. Solo chuckles and says, “Home? He wants me to come home? That’s what your Tribal Chief said? That ain’t home, Jacob. That’s a doghouse. And you’re his lap dog.” Solo really doesn’t understand, what the hell happened to Jacob? Jacob used to be a killer, a man that everyone was afraid of. The Samoan Werewolf, a man this close to beating Roman, and now he is just his bag boy. Jacob knows Solo is right. Because Solo is still standing here, and Jacob’s come here to deliver a message.

Listen to Solo. Roman has done nothing but embarrass Fatu, humiliate him, made him kneel down like a dog in front of the whole world, and in front of their family! That right there is not how you treat someone that you love! But Roman wants Solo to come back? No, Solo’s not going anywhere. So tell Roman that he can go to hell. Fatu says he gets it. He understands everything Solo is talking about. He understands what that comes from. But Fatu made his decision, and he stands on business. So if the OTC sends Fatu for Solo, then Fatu is coming after Solo. Solo chuckles again, and says okay. But you tell Roman that if Roman wants Solo to come home, then he can come get Solo.

Solo heads out, what will it take to bring MFT into the fold?

AAA Cruiserweight Championship: Rey Fenix VS Axiom!

Noche de Los Grandes wasn’t just big for El Grande Americano, it was the night The Immortal Firebird became a TWO-TIME Cruiserweight Champion. And now, he brings that title stateside to defend against the Undeniable Truth! But will Axiom truly be undeniable in this match? Or will Fenix keep the reign going through the summer?

SmackDown returns as Fraxiom makes their entrance, and the Jersey Island Rocket sees off his amigo before heading back to the back. The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and we see who can fly higher, further, faster!

The bell rings and the fans fire up already as the two stare down. They tie up, Fenix headlocks, but Axiom powers up and out. Fenix RUNS Axiom over, things speed up, and Axiom hurdles into a DROPKICK! Axiom tumbles out, Fenix builds speed, and Fenix DIVES! Down goes Axiom and the fans fire up for Fenix! Fenix hurries to put Axiom in the ring, then springboards, but into a clinch! SLEEPER! Fenix quickly arm-drags free, then he runs to tilt-o-whirl and clinch! Fenix makes it a bow ‘n’ arrow rack, but Axiom flips through to fireman’s carry! But Fenix slips free, shoves Axiom, then hurdles! Axiom shoves Fenix now, but Fenix sunset flips!

Axiom stays up, stomps, but Fenix blocks to kip up! Fenix ducks an enzigiri, waistlocks, but Axiom switches. Fenix bucks the O’Conner, but Axiom kips up and GERMAN SUPLEXES! Then PENALTY KICK! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up while Axiom stays cool. Axiom brings Fenix up, but Fenix CHOPS! The fans “WOO!” and Fenix CHOPS again. And CHOPS, but Axiom blocks! Fenix rolls, facelocks, but Axiom slips through to a takedown! FUJIWARA! But Fenix rolls to the ROPEBREAK! The fans cheer while Axiom lets go. Axiom waits, then storms up, but Fenix DUMPS Axiom out to ENZIGIRI! Axiom drops, the fans fire up, and Fenix takes aim again.

Fenix goes up, up, but Axiom slides in! Fenix still leaps but Axiom dodges! Axiom comes back, dodges, and DROPKICKS! Fenix falls out of the ring and the fans fire up for Axiom now! Axiom runs to GOLDEN TRIANGLE MOONSAULT! Down goes Fenix and the fans fire up! Axiom hobbles a bit but he still fires up while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again as Axiom has Fenix in a chinlock. The fans rally and duel as Fenix fights up and fires elbows. Fenix is free, he goes up, up, and TORNILLOS into a REAR NAKED CHOKE! The fans fire up as Fenix fights around! Fenix rolls back to a cover, TWO! Axiom mule kicks! Axiom brings Fenix up, but Fenix SLAPS him! Fenix SLAPS Axiom again, then ROCKS him with forearm after forearm! Axiom KNEES low, whips, but Fenix goes Spider-Man to rewind and HEEL KICK! The fans fire up again as Fenix aims from a corner. Axiom rises, Fenix goes up, but Axiom GAMANGIRIS! Then Axiom goes up after Fenix!

The fans fire up as Fenix fights with headbutts! Axiom drops back, Fenix aims, ADIOS AMIGO! The kick knocks Axiom down, then Fenix goes back up! FROGGY CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! The fans fire up as Fenix rises, and he winds up to KICK! Axiom sputters but he sits up, so Fenix KICKS, but Axiom blocks! Axiom puts the foot down but Fenix ROUNDHOUSES! Fenix fireman’s carries, Axiom slips free and shoves Fenix again. Fenix ELBOWS Axiom, jumps up the ropes, but Axiom slips through the legs to ELEVATED GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans fire up as Axiom goes up, and he MISSILE DROPKICKS Fenix down! Cover, TWO!

The fans fire up again as Axiom has Fenix down. Axiom aims from a corner, runs up, but Fenix goes Matrix to dodge the Golden Ratio! SUPERKICK and fireman’s carry! Then DEATH VALLEY BRAINBUSTER!! Cover, TWO?!? Axiom survives and Fenix is beside himself! The fans fire up as Fenix and Axiom go to corners. They both run up, DOUBLE LARIATS collide! Both men fall, but they lean on each other as they stand up. Then Axiom snatches Fenix to an ARMBAR! Fenix hurries to fight up, stack, TWO! Fenix somersaults but Axiom throws him back! Axiom runs up, GAMANGIRI misses as Fenix ducks!

Axiom hobbles from kicking the buckle! Fenix runs up, JUMP SOBAT! Fenix says that’s it, and he puts Axiom up top. Fenix shouts, “ANIMO!” but Axiom kicks and kicks! But Fenix uses the knuckle locks to jump up. Fenix has to steady himself, but Axiom CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOPS! Fenix blocks a chop, then jumps up! But Axiom uses that to SUPER SPANISH FLY!! Cover, TWO!! The fans fire up again as Axiom goes to a corner. But Fenix SUPERKICKS first! Fenix runs up, JUMP SOBAT again! Axiom leans on Fenix, Fenix puts him up, JUMPING SOBAT! Fenix puts Axiom up top, tucks him in, MEXICAN MUSCLE BUSTER!! Cover, Fenix wins!

Winner: Rey Fenix, by pinfall (still AAA Cruiserweight Champion)

History was made with this title being defended on WWE programming at all, and now Fenix has his first title defense under his belt! Will the Firebird heat up the Summer like no one else can?

Gunther returns to Aldis’ office.

And he tells the SmackDown GM that he has thought long and hard, and he is here to let Aldis know he has made a decision. So obviously, for this to go down smoothly, Gunther needs someone water tight with the rulebook, someone with an advanced level of experience. But then Gunther thought he should take the human factor into consideration. And he thinks what he needs is a man with his heart in the right place. A good guy. The Last Real Good Guy. Gunther’s choice for the title match next week with Cody Rhodes is none other than Sami Zayn. Gunther smiles and tells Aldis to make it happen.

Gunther leaves, but is that allowed? Gunther is going for a special guest referee that he knows is at odds with Cody, but does Sami dislike Cody more than he dislikes Gunther?

Trick Williams is here!

Providence chants, “WHOOP DAT TRICK!” as the WWE United States Champion makes his way to the ring, Lil Yachty by his side. Trick Yachty Gang goes to the ring, they get the mics, and Yachty asks, “How y’all feelin’ tonight?” The fans cheer, and Yachty says ladies and gentlemen, all those in attendance, and the millions watching at home though he can’t see you, he would like to introduce to you the real champion of SmackDown! Mr. Trick- Trick stops Yachty there. Usually, it’s a party and he loves that, but today is not one of those days. Trick has something he has to get off his chest. Yachty says you can’t do that to the people after they’ve waited all week to come and party!

Trick says he feels what he’s saying, but after losing KOTR- What about it? We all know “Dominique” cheated! But it’s not about that, Yachty! The truth is, Trick lost. Last week, he lost. He doesn’t like it, it didn’t feel good, but the truth is, in some weird way, it woke up something in Trick. It brought a fire in him he hasn’t felt in a long time. It makes Trick wanna step the game up and bring SmackDown to new levels. People always asking, tweeting, “Who’s gonna be the man now? Who’s the man carrying the brand?” Well let him break it down for you: Trick Williams is the leader of the new school! Yachty says that’s right!

And losing KOTR pisses Trick off. It makes him wanna step up, show the people who he is and what he’s capable of! So let him tell you who he is! He is Trick Williams! He is STILL United States Champion! He is STILL Hollywood Trick! He is STILL Mr. Lemon Pepper Steppers! Never mind who you thought he was, he’s TRICK JAMES, B*TCH! And that’s why SmackDown is- Wait, Ricky Saints interrupts with his entrance! The Absolute gets a mixed reaction, but he barely gets halfway down the ramp before Carmelo Hayes makes his entrance! And he even pushes right past Ricky to go to the ring, mic already in hand!

Melo says alright, alright, hey, listen up, Trick. Let’s cut all this right now. Cuz here’s the problem. But then Ricky storms in and grabs himself a mic! Melo says since Trick’s gotten that title, all he’s done is come out here and spout catchphrase after catchphrase! Melo feels like he’s reading a Dr. Seuss book! Saints asks yeah, what the hell are they doing out here?! Melo says no, no, Saints. Trick needs to make up his mind. He’s standing here aura farming, but he needs to pick somebody! Is it Ricky or is it Melo? Saints asks what Melo’s talking about! First off, Saints beat Melo, so it is all Saints as #1 contender, let’s talk about it!

Oh, okay, Ricky. What’s clear is that they gotta cut Saints out the picture. Until Saints got involved, Melo and Trick were handling business. Trick, you’ve got two guys killing themselves to get a title match with a guy who doesn’t even wanna defend it. What’s up with that? Saints asks what Melo is forgetting about last week! Oh, well, Melo beat Saints, so what they gonna do about it? Saints says they can split the difference right here, and Melo says he’ll split Saints’ head! Trick says how about both of them shutting the hell up! Cuz the truth is, it doesn’t matter. They keep bickering and battering about who is deserving, but it doesn’t matter, he’ll stomp the winner out anyways.

So you Siamese Twins can still battle it out, and the winner can come see Trick. But until then, shut up while grown folks is talking. Melo keeps Trick from leaving, but then Saints RAMS Melo into Trick! The fans boo but Melo fires hands on Saints! Saints clinches, Melo powers out, dodges, and DIRTY DIANA!! Melo throws off his jacket so he can rain down fists! But Trick POSTS Melo! Trick then hits Saints with a BOOKEND! Trick is all fired up now, but will he just have to whoop both of them? Or will someone #WhoopDatTrick and take his title?

Backstage interview with Royce Keys.

Cathy Kelley is with the Powerhouse, and says he is moments away from his own King of the Ring Tournament Fatal 4 Way against three incredibly accomplished competitors. How is he approaching such an opportunity? But then Solo steps in. Solo says just listen, he isn’t here to make things harder than they already are, so hear him out. The Bloodline is here. The same Bloodline that’s been running this company for years. The same one he was in. Solo knows why they’re here, what type of play they’re gonna run. Bloodline is here to make sure Jey goes onto the next round, and guess who is here to help? Jacob Fatu.

Yeah, the very one Royce called family. Doesn’t sound like family to Solo. Jacob is gone, he took an L from Roman. Now listen, Royce doesn’t have to fight for Solo, or even with Solo, Solo just doesn’t wanna see Royce as a casualty in Roman’s war. Solo leaves Royce to think on that, and perhaps Royce is seeing Solo’s side. But how can he be sure Solo isn’t twisting the truth to fit his own agenda?

Tiffany Stratton & Chelsea Green VS Mia Yim & B-Fab!

The Women’s US Champion helped Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss with The Baddies, and then The Hot Mess helped Tiff! Though, she also dragged Tiff into a tag match without asking… Can Tiff & Chelsea make this a good time? Or will Michin & The Fabulous make sure it’s a very bad time?

SmackDown returns as The Baddies make their entrance. The teams sort out and Tiff insists she start. Chelsea accepts that, but then Tiff’s hair whip kinda gets her in the face… Tiff and Mia start, the bell rings, and the two slowly circle. They tie up, Tiff headlocks, but Mia powers up and out. Tiff cartwheels over the dropdown, then she LARIATS Mia down! Tiff fires up, the fans cheer, and Tiff whips corner to corner. Mia reverses, Tiff goes up, but Mia does her best to stop it. Tiff just turns that into a HIP ATTACK and Mia tumbles away. Tiff kicks Mia, whips her corner to corner, but Mia reverses again.

Tiff goes up and over clean this time, then rolls to go up and over again. Chelsea tags in as Tiff keeps moving,  then Tiff cartwheels to ALABAMA SLAMS! Chelsea runs up, SLIDING FLATLINER! Chelsea covers, TWO! The fans cheer Chelsea on, and she wrenches to whip Mia. Chelsea then runs past Mia, waistlocks, but Mia elbows free! Tag to Fab, and the Baddies double whip for a SOBAT, BOOT, and cover, TWO! Fab keeps on Chelsea with a full nelson but the fans rally up. Chelsea switches and SLAPS Fab, then reels her in for a BIG back suplex! Fab lands out, CLUBS Chelsea, then tags Mia. The Baddies reel Chelsea in for a DOUBLE ATOMIC SLAM!

The Baddies high-five, then Mia sucker punches Tiff! The fans boo but Mia KICKS Chelsea down! Cover, TWO! Mia taunts Chelsea, mocks the salute, and SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again as Chelsea fires body shots on Mia, then CLUBS away, but Mia RAMS Chelsea to a corner! Mia hoists Chelsea up top, but Chelsea SLAPS back! Fab runs up, Chelsea SLAPS her! But Mia ROCKS Chelsea, goes up the corner, and SUPER STEINERS! Cover, TWO! Chelsea survives but Mia drags her up. Mia facelocks but Chelsea fights her way forward. Chelsea reaches out for Tiff, Tiff reaches out for Chelsea, but Mia digs in her heels. But then Chelsea NORTHERN LIGHTS Mia away! Mia hurries to anchor a foot! But Chelsea turns over and BOOTS Mia away! Fab runs up, she grabs a foot! But Cheslea ENZIGIRIS Fab away!

The fans fire up as Chelsea fights her way forward, but stumbles to the other corner! Mia runs up, Chelsea dodges to then TOSS her out! Fab runs up but Chelsea dodge! Fab POSTS herself, then Chelsea crawls! And crawls! But JADE yanks Tiff down! The fans boo as #ThatB1tch recreates her return from when she screwed Rhea over against Fatal Influence! Fab runs up, but Chelsea BOOTS her away! And then dodges! Fab hits buckles, Chelsea chicken wings, UNPRETTY-HER! But Mia reels Chelsea in for a STYLES CLASH!! Cover, Baddies win!

Winner: Mia Yim & B-Fab, by pinfall

Jade tips the scales for her girls, but Tiff is in! Tiff CLOBBERS Mia, CLOBBERS Fab, and fires off on Jade! Jade fires back, Tiff kicks low, but The Baddies CLOBBER Tiff! The fans boo the mugging, but Fab & Mia set Tiff up for Jade! Chicken wings and JADED!! Jade looks over, points to the Women’s US Championship, and she picks it up! Jade may not be Queen of the Ring this year, but will she take Tiffy’s title and her time?

Backstage interview with Kiana James.

Cathy Kelley is with Miss Management, and brings up last week, the break up in Bologna, Italy. Kiana stops Cathy there to say that her client, her friend, betrayed her. And she knows it is just juicy gossip for Cathy, but for Kiana, it is her life. She did everything for Giulia! She secured her matches, got her the title, Giulia needed Kiana! And the one time Kiana needs Giulia, Giulia is useless! But Giulia steps in! She tells Kiana that she only needed Kiana’s help with English! That included contracts! Not with being a fighter. That is just who Giulia is. Well, Kiana didn’t need Giulia for anything! Giulia says oh no, Kiana needed Giulia’s name and momentum.

Kiana says she has eclipsed Giulia. Giulia tells Kiana that her English has gotten better, so she finally has the words to say. But then she SLAPS Kiana! Kiana almost falls over while Giulia storms off. Will Miss Management realize she’s the one in the wrong? Or will Giulia just have to drive that through her thick head?

Finn Balor heads to gorilla.

And on the way, he crosses paths with Tama Tonga. Tama says it’s been a long time. Welcome to SmackDown. And good luck. Finn moves on, is The Prince about to become a King of the Ring?

Cody Rhodes talks with Nick Aldis.

The champ is double checking: Are we going through with this? Aldis says Cody knows that Aldis’ hands are tied! Gunther got his lawyers involved, and everything going on, Gunther named a stipulation. His stipulation was a handpicked referee, and he chose Sami! Yes, but Sami is a wreck right now, he is emotionally all over the place. Oh, Sami showed up… Cody says Sami gave him one so Cody gave Sami one, please let it end there. Let it be good. Sami says he doesn’t know. He is a bit of a wreck, his emotions are all over the place. Good luck next week. Sami leaves, but will Cody be able to fight an enemy while keeping a friend?

Backstage interview with LA Knight.

Cathy Kelley is now with The Mega Star, and she brings up his big opportunity in KOTR. But The Bloodline is also in the building, and given- Knight says that’s all she’s gotta say, because The Bloodline, LEMME TALK TO YA! They’re here, but so is Knight! And what that means is we’re looking at… Didn’t he call this? He said all The Bloodline is gonna show up. He isn’t Nostradamus but he’s LA Damus, and Roman is Nostra-dumbass! Roman was the one saying that Jimmy will do it by himself! No, wait, Jey’s in the match, sorry. It’s easy to get them mixed up. But the bottom line is, Jey, Jimmy, Jacob, and now they’re trying to get Solo back in the fold!

Oh my word, can’t wait to see Jacob & Solo pregnant ‘n’ barefoot back in The Bloodline kitchen. But he won’t make us any promises, because when you look at what’s going on, he has insurmountable odds! But what it comes down to is, if he can defy those odds by the grace of God, he’ll be wearing that crown right to the front door of Roman Reigns, and Knight will stomp him out! YEAH! With everybody saying, L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH! Knight is ready, but will he be able to become a King?

Jey Uso is in the concourse.

The fans are going nuts already as he asks them to please, please, play his music! UH UH, YEET!! Providence is now on YEET ISLAND as Main Event Jey is indeed in the main event! But will he really do it all by himself? Or will The Bloodline prop him up on his way to the throne?

2026 King of the Ring Opening Round Fatal 4 Way: Jey Uso VS LA Knight VS Royce Keys VS Finn Balor!

SmackDown returns as Finn makes his entrance, joining Jey in the ring. Next out is the Powerhouse, leaving the Mega Star for last but certainly not least. Knight mocks the “run it back,” and he gets an encore for his music! But then Jey goes after Knight at the corner! Royce RAMS Finn at the same time and the bell rings to get this on record! Jey fires hands with Knight, Finn CLUBS away on Royce, but Royce still RAMS away! Finn fires body shots, Knight bumps Jey off buckles, but Jey returns the favor. Royce fires hands, then he runs to CLOBBER Knight and Jey! Then he SPLASHES Finn! Royce storms around while he waits on anyone to get up.

Royce sees Jey and Knight stand, so he runs up to DOUBLE LARIAT them up and out of the ring! The fans fire up for Royce and he goes back to Finn. Finn KNEES low, KICKS and KICKS, then whips, but Royce blocks! Royce whips, Finn goes up and over! Then Finn DUMPS Royce out! Finn builds speed and FLIES! Down go Knight and Jey! The fans fire up with Finn, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Finn brings Jey up, puts him in the ring, then rallies the fans as he goes after Jey in a corner. Finn CHOPS Jey, keeps him cornered, then whips corner to corner. Finn runs up and CHOPS again! Knight is back but Finn DECKS him! Finn snapmares Jey, runs, and basement DROPKICKS! Cover, TWO! Jey toughs it out but Finn stays on him. Finn reels Jey in, but Jey RAMS Finn into buckles! Jey RAMS again and again, then climbs up. Jey rains down fist, and goes all the way to TEN! Jey then winds up, but Knight kicks him low! Knight bumps Jey off buckles, then he climbs up to rain down fists! Knight goes to nine before Royce yanks him down!

Royce TOSSES Knight out, but Finn and Jey DUMP Royce out! Finn storms up on Jey but Jey UPPERCUTS him down! Jey huffs ‘n’ puffs, covers, TWO! Jey hurries to wind up, but Finn blocks a shot to ROCK Jey again and again! Finn has Jey on the ropes, whips him to ropes, but Jey reverses to ELBOW Finn down! Jey and Finn both sputter on the mat, but Jey is up first. Jey throws off the armbands while Royce whips Knight hard into barriers! Jey kicks, Finn blocks, but the DRAGON WHIP knocks Finn down! Cover, TWO! Finn is tougher than that but Jey clamps onto Finn with a chinlock. Royce beats up on Knight but Knight kicks back.

Knight SMACKS Royce off barriers while Finn fights up. But Jey wrangles Finn back down! Knight brings Royce around, but Royce RAMS him into the apron! SmackDown returns to single picture as Finn fights up again. Finn fires body shots, but Jey ROCKS Finn in return! Jey whips, Finn reverses, but Jey sunset flips! Finn rolls through to basement DROPKICK! Cover, TWO! Knight returns but Finn KICKS him in the side! Finn JUMP STOMPS away on Knight at the ropes, but Royce is up! Finn rushes Royce but Royce guzels Finn! Royce SMACKS Finn off buckles, then storms in and CLUBS Finn down.

Royce eggs Finn on while the fans rally up. Royce reels Finn in and suplexes, but Finn slips free! Finn runs, but Royce RUNS him over! Royce snarls, but Jey is up! Jey mule kicks, UPPERCUTS, then runs, but into a SPINEBUSTER! Cover, but Knight breaks it! Knight CLUBS Royce, ROCKS him with rights, but Royce hits back! The fans cheer both men on, Royce KNEES low! Royce suplexes Knight, Knight lands out, NECKBREAKER! Knight ELBOW DROPS Royce, then brings him around to a corner. Knight stomps a mudhole in, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight then gets space, runs up, but Royce LARIATS Knight back down!

The fans cheer as Royce then RIPCORDS Knight into the POWERSLAM! Cover, but Finn breaks it! Finn goes to the apron, Royce storms up, but Finn RAMS Royce! Then GAMANGIRIS! Finn hurries up a corner, and the fans cheer as Finn leaps, but into Royce’s arms! Royce hits a BACKBREAKER and drops Finn. Finn goes to a corner, Royce fires hands, then he puts Finn up on the top rope! Royce CLUBS away on Finn while Jey and Knight return. But Royce DOUBLE LARIATS them down again! Royce goes up the corner, and he deadlifts Finn! SUPER POWERSLAM! #TopChoiceRoyceSlam! Cover, Knight kicks it apart!

Knight drags Royce up, but Royce THROWS Knight out! Knight trips Royce to drag him out, they brawl, and Royce POSTS Knight! Jey sees Royce on the apron and SUPERKICKS him down! The fans “YEET!” as Jey DIVES, but Royce blocks it! And then he scoops Jey to SNAKE EYES off the apron! The fans fire up again, and Royce THROWS Jey into steel steps! Royce talks trash on Jey, but then Jimmy appears! #BigJim stares Royce down, but is he going to let it be? Well, now Solo Sikoa storms out here! Solo stares down his brother, and Royce says forget this. Royce goes to the ring while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Royce ROCKS Finn, HEADBUTTS him, then brings him around to ROCK with a haymaker. Royce soaks up the cheers before he runs up, but Finn SLINGBLADES first! Finn is fired up, and he takes aim now. Finn runs up, but Royce LARIATS him first! Finn sputters on the floor while Royce leaves him behind. Solo again insists he’s here to help Royce, and Royce steps into the ring. Jey and Knight are trading shots, but then Royce ROCKS Jey and puts Knight in a corner. Royce KNEES Knight low, then looms over him. Royce CHOKES Knight on the ropes, then goes after Jey. Jey fires hands on Royce, and he backs Royce down.

Jey whips but Royce reverses, and Jey hits buckles hard! Royce snarls, but Knight CLOBBERS Royce from behind! Knight bumps Royce off buckles, then off more buckles! Then off the third corner! Then Knight whips, but Royce reverses and BACKDROPS! Knight writhes from that crash landing, and Royce waits for him to go to a corner. Royce runs up to SPLASH Knight, then he goes out after Finn. Solo keeps talking while Royce puts Finn in the ring. Royce brushes Solo off while SmackDown returns to single picture. Finn ROCKS Royce in return! Then runs up again to ROCK Royce again! Royce holds onto ropes but Finn BLASTS him down!

The fans fire up for Finn, he PLANCHAS, but Royce catches Finn! And APRON POWERSLAMS! Royce drags Finn back up, takes aim, but Jey SUPERKICKS Royce first! And then Knight WRECKS Royce with a dropkick! Royce falls in front of commentary, Knight and Jey storm up on each other, but Finn says hold on! They can’t win with Royce in the way, so let’s get him! They clear the desk and the fans fire up! They hoist Royce up and Jey takes the Roman position for the TRIPLE POWERBOMB down through the desk!! The fans go nuts and Solo is shocked! Jey and Knight get back in the ring, and Knight ROCKS Jey! Jey ROCKS Knight!

The fans duel, “YEAH!” “YEET!” and repeat! Knight gets the edge, YEAH, YEAH, YEAH! But Jey fires back, “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Jey says “SUCK IT!” and he DECKS Knight! But Finn rolls Jey up! TWO, Finn DECKS Knight! And he DECKS Jey! Finn trips Knight to DOUBLE STOMP! Finn trips Jey to DOUBLE STOMP! Finn catches Knight for EYE OF THE HURRICANE! Cover, Jey breaks it! Jimmy cheers Jey as Jey wrangles and whips Finn. Finn reverses to SLINGBLADE! Finn goes to a corner, he takes aim, but Jey SUPERKICKS first! Jey lines up a shot, but runs into a KICK! Finn SLINGBLADES again! Then Finn goes to a corner!

Finn reloads, runs up, and he SHOTGUNS Jey down! The fans fire up as Finn climbs up! But Knight springs up after Finn! But Finn SUPER GOURD BUSTERS Knight onto Jey! And then FInn has his choice! COUP DE GRACE on Jey!! Cover, ROYCE YANKS FINN AWAY?!? Royce lives, and he THROWS Finn into Jimmy, and they fall into the timekeeper’s area!! Solo says that’s what he’s talking about! Solo cheers Royce on, but Knight runs up! He WRECKS Royce into Solo! Knight puts Royce in, hurries up, and he dodges a shot to then LEAPING LARIAT! Then he slips around, RUSSIAN LEG SWEEP on Royce!

But Jey runs up! Knight dodges that to torture rack, BURNING HAMMER! Knight fires up, but Royce is up again! Scoop and- NO, Knight slips free, REVERSE DDT! Everyone is down, even those not in the match! But Knight rolls back and rises up! The fans cheer as he spells it out, “L! A! KNIGHT! YEAH!” BOX JUMP ELBOW DROP!! The fans fire up with Knight and he waits on Royce. Kick and cravat, B F- NO! Royce powers out, but Knight BOOTS back! SAMOAN SPIKE!! Royce didn’t see it, neither did the ref, and Royce hits Knight with TOWN BIDNESS!! But Jey is up top! USO SPLASH onto them both!! Cover on Knight, JEY WINS!!

Winner: Jey Uso, by pinfall (advances to the next round)

Solo is shocked all over again! Jey really did do this on his own! The semifinals is Raw through and through, but will Jey make himself King of the Ring?

My Thoughts:

A very good episode, bordering on great. Very good stuff in ongoing saga of Sami Zayn’s slow turn, and how it relates to the Undisputed WWE Championship. Gunther waiting on his decision does feel very in character for how he’s been, but it also felt like an excuse from the bookers to wait until after Sami had it out with Cody. I feel like Gunther could’ve done all of his talking to Aldis in one swoop, where he was making us wait on the stipulation the entire night, and upon seeing Sami and Cody go from arguing to slapping each other, that was the inspiration for the special guest referee stipulation. The flow of the show works out the same, but with better logic.

That said, that was some great stuff from Sami and Cody. We want Sami to fight Cody, that’s why the fans were cheering for Sami with the chair. But for Sami, he may be choosing peace for the sake of staying Cody’s friend, but clearly fans see it as Sami not being man enough to do what he wants for his own sake. The special guest ref match will certainly be a breaking point for Sami, and I would think Sami would make sure Cody won so that Sami could go after Cody for Night of Champions. Sami can definitely rely on some strong fans of his in Riyadh, and that crowd would be red hot for Cody VS Sami.

Great AAA Cruiserweight Championship match, Axiom matched up well with Fenix, but naturally Fenix won when this was an AAA title but not an AAA event. Good promo from Danhausen with Los Garza and Cardona plugging the NBA Finals, and Danhausen basically scamming Los Garza out of their money and Cardona out of his watch, as he isn’t gonna curse anyone and simply profit. Hilarious stuff from Miz and Kit joining in, with “FrankenMiz” brain fried from that electric shock. I still think we’re in a slow burn towards another tag match of Danhausen VS MizKit, and that’s probably for SummerSlam after more shenanigans.

Very good tag match from Brie & Paige VS Fatal Influence, and I’m actually a little surprised Fatal Influence didn’t win that one through cheating. I would’ve thought that was going to give us a tag title match, but maybe we’ll build to that for SummerSlam. Good promo from Kiana and Giulia, though it’s bad logic that Kiana is ignoring the facts when she could rewatch the episode like we all can. But whatever, Giulia got to smack Kiana, and she’ll surely beat Kiana in their 1v1 match. Not sure what Giulia does after that, with the Women’s US title spoken for and the top title perhaps just out of reach for her right now. Money in the Bank also got moved back a month so who knows what anyone will be doing by then.

Great Queen of the Ring Fatal 4 Way, and I’m surprised Charlotte advanced instead of cancelling out with Jade. At the same time, Tiff helping against The Baddies and Chelsea helping Tiff, that helps build a few stories at once. The Baddies needed a win so good on them here, though that match got a bit sloppy at times. Jade VS Tiff for the Women’s US title works as a consolation to QOTR, and I wonder if Chelsea helps Tiff, only to cost her. Good promo from Blake Monroe, though we do have to question how they think they can get away with acting like Blake hasn’t shown up on SmackDown when she did that one time to talk to Chelsea…

And great King of the Ring story with all the different parts. LA Knight kinda flubbed some of his promo, maybe it was stream of consciousness as opposed to written down. But while Jimmy showed up to support Jey, Jimmy never got directly involved, so Knight was only half right. I loved Truth thinking Finn would want to join up with the other OG Judgment Day members, given they’re all on SmackDown now. Tama wishing Finn luck was also a nice touch, as they’re OG Bullet Club. It’d be pretty wild if we not only got the OG Judgment Day reunited, but Tama joined them after leaving Solo Sikoa behind.

Jacob had a good promo with The Usos, and with Solo. Solo twisting the truth to talk to Royce was a fitting move, but I feel like Royce should continue to reject an invitation. We need to keep using the logic that this is all available to watch back, so Royce can use that against Solo. But I guess at this point, if Solo’s in danger of losing MFT, and if Royce isn’t being accepted by Priest, he might still be compelled into joining Solo. Still not what I want, but I guess we’ve just gotta wait and see if they can do it the right way.

My Score: 8.7/10