This week's episode is a "best-of" episode focusing on Rush. Highlights and matches include:
Rush talking about his family watching from ringside as he faced Matt Taven for the ROH World Championship at Death Before Dishonor 2019
Rush vs. Matt Taven for the ROH World Championship at Death Before Dishonor 2019
Rush's promo at Death Before Dishonor Fallout 2019
Jeff Cobb vs. Rush for the ROH World Championship at Honor United 2019
PCO vs. Rush for the ROH World Championship at Final Battle 2019 and Rush's formation of La Faccion Gobernables (Rush, Dragon Lee, Kenny King) at Final Battle Fallout 2019
Rush vs. PCO for the ROH World Championship at Glory By Honor 2020
Rush says he came to ROH to become the biggest star it has ever seen, and that he plans to continue making history in the company while dismantling everyone who gets in his way. He says that he is stuck at hime, but when he finally comes back out, he will be back and better than ever.
Saturday, May 30, 2020
Championship Gold - Championship Wrestling From Hollywood recap for May 30, 2020 (Non-PRO Shingle Edition)
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode, and is a repeat of the February 8, 2020 episode. Highlights and matches include:
Jack Banning vs. Watts from February 8, 2020 and Watts' post-match promo
The Millennials (Brendan Devine and Daniel Luna) vs. The Wolf Zaddies (Che Cabrera and "Bad Dude" Tito) from February 8, 2020
PK MODE (Bamboo Crusher and Black Mamba) vs. The Rocknes Monsters (YUMA and BHK) for Middle Kingdom Wrestling from February 8, 2020
Backstage, John Roberts interviews Levi Shapiro, who says that he thought Buddy Royal was his best friend and that they were on the same page, but he was wrong. He says he has gone through a transformation in the past year, and that he plans to make his name in history and do something different, because he is timeless. (from February 8, 2020)
Dan Joseph vs. Royce Isaacs for the United Television Championship from February 8, 2020, and Royce Isaacs kicking Jimmy Iovine to the curb after the match
Jack Banning vs. Watts from February 8, 2020 and Watts' post-match promo
The Millennials (Brendan Devine and Daniel Luna) vs. The Wolf Zaddies (Che Cabrera and "Bad Dude" Tito) from February 8, 2020
PK MODE (Bamboo Crusher and Black Mamba) vs. The Rocknes Monsters (YUMA and BHK) for Middle Kingdom Wrestling from February 8, 2020
Backstage, John Roberts interviews Levi Shapiro, who says that he thought Buddy Royal was his best friend and that they were on the same page, but he was wrong. He says he has gone through a transformation in the past year, and that he plans to make his name in history and do something different, because he is timeless. (from February 8, 2020)
Dan Joseph vs. Royce Isaacs for the United Television Championship from February 8, 2020, and Royce Isaacs kicking Jimmy Iovine to the curb after the match
Championship Gold - Championship Wrestling presented by PRO Shingle recap for May 30, 2020
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode and looks back on the formation of STATiC (Ray Rosas, Andy Brown, Adrian Quest). Highlights and moments include:
Ray Rosas vs. Watts from August 31, 2019, and Rosas' heel turn after the match
Vermin (Johnny Yuma and Kevin Martenson) vs. Bateman and Andy Brown from November 30, 2019, and Andy Brown's heel turn after the match
The road to Adrian Quest winning - and then losing - the United Television Championship
Adrian Quest vs. Royce Isaacs for the United Television Championship at Milestone 2020
Ray Rosas vs. Watts from August 31, 2019, and Rosas' heel turn after the match
Vermin (Johnny Yuma and Kevin Martenson) vs. Bateman and Andy Brown from November 30, 2019, and Andy Brown's heel turn after the match
The road to Adrian Quest winning - and then losing - the United Television Championship
Adrian Quest vs. Royce Isaacs for the United Television Championship at Milestone 2020
Friday, May 29, 2020
Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 29, 2020
The show starts with Renee Young reporting on a car accident involving Elias outside of the WWE Performance Center. The driver of another car wearing a black shirt and black pants has been seen entering the WWE Performance Center. Inside the nearby crashed car, a bottle of alcohol is found, and a piece of paper with Jeff Hardy's name is found. Strowman says he just saw a car and heard a crash, and before he knew it, somebody jumped out of a car and Elias was hurt. Suddenly, Jeff Hardy is found in the bushes. Jeff says he was not driving, but he supposedly reeks of alcohol. Jeff Hardy is handcuffed, and as he is escorted to the back of a police car, Hardy notices Elias being placed in an ambulance. The police then drive off with Jeff Hardy in the car for questioning.
At the Performance Center, what happened to Jeff Hardy is mentioned, and it is announced that Jeff cannot compete in the Intercontinental Championship tournament before. It is then revealed that Jeff has been arrested. Sheamus uses the opportunity to take potshots. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles says he will be facing Daniel Bryan in the finals, but Daniel Bryan says that everyone in the tournament should face a random opponent. Styles tells Bryan to take his ride to the finals, but Sheamus agrees with Bryan, wanting another shot. Sheamus proposes Daniel Bryan face him, but King Corbin wants another shot, and he wants to take on Styles. Styles says he did not sign up for this, and says that Sheamus and Corbin lost once before and he wants his free ride. Sheamus proposes that he, Corbin and Daniel Bryan face each other in a Triple Threat Match with the winner facing Daniel Bryan in the semi-finals. Jey Uso wants in on the match, as does Dolph Ziggler, and it is decided everyone in the room will be in a battle royal. The winner of the battle royal will face Styles in the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament, and the battle royal is next. After everyone leaves, Styles tells Bryan that he is an idiot.
Sheamus last eliminates Jey Uso in a ten-man over the top rope battle royal to face Daniel Bryan in the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament. During the match, Cesaro throws Shorty G over the top rope after being eliminated to eliminate Shorty G in retaliation.
We hear from Sonya Deville, who brags about beating Mandy Rose last week before telling Lacey Evans she will meet the same fate. Suddenly, Lacey Evans shows up and pushes her from behind before telling her she will see her in the ring.
Backstage, Cesaro and Shorty G argue over Cesaro's elimination of Shorty G in the battle royal. Cesaro implies someone like Shorty G cannot be Intercontinental Champion, and tells him to either walk away or get beaten in the ring. Shorty G punches Cesaro and says "Challenge accepted."
Lacey Evans vs. Sonya Deville ends in a double count-out. After the match, Lacey sends Sonya into the announce table, and Sonya tells Lacey she will fight her on her own time.
We hear from The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). Wesley Blake makes it clear they will not turn the other cheek, and that everyone's blood is now on theirs as they do unto others.
As Nikki Cross tells Alexa Bliss she has a surprise for A Moment of Bliss tonight, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) sneak up on them.
It's time for A Moment of Bliss. Tonight's guests are The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E). Nikki gifts The New Day with a box of Scottish pancakes, and The New Day return the favor with coffee beans. When asked if there are any standout tag teams on SmackDown, Kofi mentions The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). As Big E is about to ask the same question of Alexa, Bayley and Sasha Banks show up. Bayley says she sees two tag team champions in the ring, but not the best tag team. Sasha throws her coat at Alexa Bliss, then Bayley mocks Alexa and Nikki. Alexa then mentions that Sasha is the only non-champion in the ring. Bayley says Sasha is the best in the women's division, and Sasha says she and Bayley put the women's tag titles on the map, and says that without them, the women's tag team titles would not be here. Alexa tells Bayley to name the time and place, then Bayley says Sasha will show how good she is when she beats Alexa tonight. Alexa accepts the challenge for right now, then throws Sasha's jacket back at Sasha and drop kicks her.
Bayley and Nikki Cross guest on commentary for the next match.
Sasha Banks beats Alexa Bliss after Bayley gets on the ring apron and pushes Nikki Cross into Alexa as Alexa is on the top rope when Nikki tries to keep her from interfering.
It is announced that Elias is currently in stable condition.
Shorty G beats Cesaro with a roll-up out of a powerbomb.
In footage from earlier today, Otis and Mandy Rose have a day out by the pool drinking peach champagne. As Otis goes to the pool, Mandy falls asleep and has a dream where she and Mandy kiss while another Mandy watches. Mandy wakes up after Otis splashes her with a cannonball in the pool, then she and Otis kiss in the pool.
We hear from Kurt Angle, who says that it is great to be back on SmackDown. He says that he looks forward to Randy Orton vs. Edge at Backlash, then announces that Matt Riddle is coming to SmackDown. We then see a video package of Matt Riddle during his time in NXT.
Backstage, Sheamus shows up and says that while Jeff Hardy and Matt Riddle bring all the hype, he gives the results, and says that he will not let "a little rat" like Daniel Bryan or "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles stand in his way of becoming a Grand Slam Champion. He says he will leave a trail of bodies in his wake, for his world is no place for the weak. Daniel Bryan shows up, and when Sheamus mocks him, Daniel Bryan kicks him in the shin and leaves.
Next week: The Miz and John Morrison's warning to Braun Strowman! Bayley and Sasha Banks vs. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships!
Daniel Bryan beats Sheamus to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament after Jeff Hardy shows up out of nowhere, distracting Sheamus and allowing Daniel Bryan to hit the running knee for the win.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
At the Performance Center, what happened to Jeff Hardy is mentioned, and it is announced that Jeff cannot compete in the Intercontinental Championship tournament before. It is then revealed that Jeff has been arrested. Sheamus uses the opportunity to take potshots. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles says he will be facing Daniel Bryan in the finals, but Daniel Bryan says that everyone in the tournament should face a random opponent. Styles tells Bryan to take his ride to the finals, but Sheamus agrees with Bryan, wanting another shot. Sheamus proposes Daniel Bryan face him, but King Corbin wants another shot, and he wants to take on Styles. Styles says he did not sign up for this, and says that Sheamus and Corbin lost once before and he wants his free ride. Sheamus proposes that he, Corbin and Daniel Bryan face each other in a Triple Threat Match with the winner facing Daniel Bryan in the semi-finals. Jey Uso wants in on the match, as does Dolph Ziggler, and it is decided everyone in the room will be in a battle royal. The winner of the battle royal will face Styles in the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament, and the battle royal is next. After everyone leaves, Styles tells Bryan that he is an idiot.
Sheamus last eliminates Jey Uso in a ten-man over the top rope battle royal to face Daniel Bryan in the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament. During the match, Cesaro throws Shorty G over the top rope after being eliminated to eliminate Shorty G in retaliation.
We hear from Sonya Deville, who brags about beating Mandy Rose last week before telling Lacey Evans she will meet the same fate. Suddenly, Lacey Evans shows up and pushes her from behind before telling her she will see her in the ring.
Backstage, Cesaro and Shorty G argue over Cesaro's elimination of Shorty G in the battle royal. Cesaro implies someone like Shorty G cannot be Intercontinental Champion, and tells him to either walk away or get beaten in the ring. Shorty G punches Cesaro and says "Challenge accepted."
Lacey Evans vs. Sonya Deville ends in a double count-out. After the match, Lacey sends Sonya into the announce table, and Sonya tells Lacey she will fight her on her own time.
We hear from The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). Wesley Blake makes it clear they will not turn the other cheek, and that everyone's blood is now on theirs as they do unto others.
As Nikki Cross tells Alexa Bliss she has a surprise for A Moment of Bliss tonight, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) sneak up on them.
It's time for A Moment of Bliss. Tonight's guests are The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E). Nikki gifts The New Day with a box of Scottish pancakes, and The New Day return the favor with coffee beans. When asked if there are any standout tag teams on SmackDown, Kofi mentions The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). As Big E is about to ask the same question of Alexa, Bayley and Sasha Banks show up. Bayley says she sees two tag team champions in the ring, but not the best tag team. Sasha throws her coat at Alexa Bliss, then Bayley mocks Alexa and Nikki. Alexa then mentions that Sasha is the only non-champion in the ring. Bayley says Sasha is the best in the women's division, and Sasha says she and Bayley put the women's tag titles on the map, and says that without them, the women's tag team titles would not be here. Alexa tells Bayley to name the time and place, then Bayley says Sasha will show how good she is when she beats Alexa tonight. Alexa accepts the challenge for right now, then throws Sasha's jacket back at Sasha and drop kicks her.
Bayley and Nikki Cross guest on commentary for the next match.
Sasha Banks beats Alexa Bliss after Bayley gets on the ring apron and pushes Nikki Cross into Alexa as Alexa is on the top rope when Nikki tries to keep her from interfering.
It is announced that Elias is currently in stable condition.
Shorty G beats Cesaro with a roll-up out of a powerbomb.
In footage from earlier today, Otis and Mandy Rose have a day out by the pool drinking peach champagne. As Otis goes to the pool, Mandy falls asleep and has a dream where she and Mandy kiss while another Mandy watches. Mandy wakes up after Otis splashes her with a cannonball in the pool, then she and Otis kiss in the pool.
We hear from Kurt Angle, who says that it is great to be back on SmackDown. He says that he looks forward to Randy Orton vs. Edge at Backlash, then announces that Matt Riddle is coming to SmackDown. We then see a video package of Matt Riddle during his time in NXT.
Backstage, Sheamus shows up and says that while Jeff Hardy and Matt Riddle bring all the hype, he gives the results, and says that he will not let "a little rat" like Daniel Bryan or "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles stand in his way of becoming a Grand Slam Champion. He says he will leave a trail of bodies in his wake, for his world is no place for the weak. Daniel Bryan shows up, and when Sheamus mocks him, Daniel Bryan kicks him in the shin and leaves.
Next week: The Miz and John Morrison's warning to Braun Strowman! Bayley and Sasha Banks vs. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships!
Daniel Bryan beats Sheamus to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament after Jeff Hardy shows up out of nowhere, distracting Sheamus and allowing Daniel Bryan to hit the running knee for the win.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
205:Alive - 205 Live recap for May 29, 2020
"The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese beats Tyler Breeze.
Tehuti Miles beats Danny Burch after grabbing the tights during a schoolkid pin.
Tehuti Miles beats Danny Burch after grabbing the tights during a schoolkid pin.
Friday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for May 29, 2020
Bianca Belair beats Ruby Riott.
Shelton Benjamin beats Akira Tozawa.
Shelton Benjamin beats Akira Tozawa.
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Total Bellas Island - Total Bellas recap for May 28, 2020
In Los Angeles, Brie does some vocal training with vocal coach Bob Garrett courtesy of Nikki. Brie finds out that she has a bit of power in her voice and that she has the potential to do more.
At Headspace Headquarters, Brie and Nikki host their podcast with special guest Andy Puddicombe, founder of Headspace. Brie feels that she and Bryan have a lot going on in their lives and that she is happy to go to Sedona. Andy gets to meet Artem, as well.
Brie and Nikki have a coffee with Kathy. Brie mentions that she and Bryan have busy lives and that they are growing apart rather than together. Brie also mentions that Bryan wishes she was still the girl that he met years ago, and it becomes obvious that both want different things and that they will have to compromise. She mentions that Bryan wants to work on this and mentions the trip to Sedona, which she hopes will remind them of why they got married. Kathy tells Brie to go into this with honesty and says that Bryan should do the same.
Brie and Nikki have a wine dinner for Bellaridicci, as they are soon going to France. Artem tells Brie and Nikki that his parents are coming to France. Brie talks with Kathy, and it becomes apparent that Artem wants a long-term relationship with Nikki and wants to marry her.
At Artem's house, Artem has gotten work on a dancing show on television.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie and Kathy talk about Artem's plans to potentially propose to Nikki. They are afraid that Nikki will be pressured to say yes if Artem's parents are there.
Brie and Bryan spend time with Birdie one last time before heading to Sedona. Bryan hopes to reconnect with Brie at Sedona. The two of them head to a wellness resort and head to the spot where they got married. Brie feels happy walking through that spot, and she - much like Bryan - wants to feel the way that she did when they got married, but knows that she has to put in the effort to make it work.
At Artem's house, Nikki feels that she needs to learn some Russian to make a good impression in front of Artem's parents. After learning the basics, they then head to Grandma's Deli Babushka to practice the basics and learn some new words, but Nikki soon realizes this will not exactly work. Artem admits that Nikki is trying hard to learn.
In Sedona, Brie and Bryan meet a shaman in hopes of healing their relationship. When they pray to the great spirits, Bryan breaks down. He enters a trance-like state, but soon comes out of it. Bryan feels a weight has been released from him. Brie asks Bryan to be more open with him about his feelings. Bryan mentions that he wants to live a simple life - something that he has always mentioned time and again - and this time, it hits Brie hard. Bryan admits that while it went differently than planed, he and Brie have grown closer together, and Brie feels they are at the point where they want to give their marriage quality time.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Nikki and Artem are babysitting Birdie. Nikki thinks that Artem would be a good dad.
In Sedona, Brie and Bryan meet another shaman. Bryan talks about his mental breakdown from three years ago and how he left Brie for three months to go back home to the state of Washington, and feels he cannot do that again. Brie feels that Bryan seeing leaving as the "healing" part instead of staying with her was what hurt the most. Brie and Bryan talk about what drew them to each other. It becomes clear that the two of them need to devote quality time with each other to their marriage.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie and Bryan pick some spinach and spend some time with Birdie. Brie feels that the trip to Sedona did her and Bryan some good and that they both need to put effort into their marriage or else they will lose it.
Brie meets Artem at a restaurant. Artem tells Brie that he got an engagement ring and admits that he may propose to Nikki. Brie asks Artem to ask for both her and Nikki's mother and father's blessing. Brie is nervous, as even though Artem may be ready, Nikki may not be.
At Headspace Headquarters, Brie and Nikki host their podcast with special guest Andy Puddicombe, founder of Headspace. Brie feels that she and Bryan have a lot going on in their lives and that she is happy to go to Sedona. Andy gets to meet Artem, as well.
Brie and Nikki have a coffee with Kathy. Brie mentions that she and Bryan have busy lives and that they are growing apart rather than together. Brie also mentions that Bryan wishes she was still the girl that he met years ago, and it becomes obvious that both want different things and that they will have to compromise. She mentions that Bryan wants to work on this and mentions the trip to Sedona, which she hopes will remind them of why they got married. Kathy tells Brie to go into this with honesty and says that Bryan should do the same.
Brie and Nikki have a wine dinner for Bellaridicci, as they are soon going to France. Artem tells Brie and Nikki that his parents are coming to France. Brie talks with Kathy, and it becomes apparent that Artem wants a long-term relationship with Nikki and wants to marry her.
At Artem's house, Artem has gotten work on a dancing show on television.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie and Kathy talk about Artem's plans to potentially propose to Nikki. They are afraid that Nikki will be pressured to say yes if Artem's parents are there.
Brie and Bryan spend time with Birdie one last time before heading to Sedona. Bryan hopes to reconnect with Brie at Sedona. The two of them head to a wellness resort and head to the spot where they got married. Brie feels happy walking through that spot, and she - much like Bryan - wants to feel the way that she did when they got married, but knows that she has to put in the effort to make it work.
At Artem's house, Nikki feels that she needs to learn some Russian to make a good impression in front of Artem's parents. After learning the basics, they then head to Grandma's Deli Babushka to practice the basics and learn some new words, but Nikki soon realizes this will not exactly work. Artem admits that Nikki is trying hard to learn.
In Sedona, Brie and Bryan meet a shaman in hopes of healing their relationship. When they pray to the great spirits, Bryan breaks down. He enters a trance-like state, but soon comes out of it. Bryan feels a weight has been released from him. Brie asks Bryan to be more open with him about his feelings. Bryan mentions that he wants to live a simple life - something that he has always mentioned time and again - and this time, it hits Brie hard. Bryan admits that while it went differently than planed, he and Brie have grown closer together, and Brie feels they are at the point where they want to give their marriage quality time.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Nikki and Artem are babysitting Birdie. Nikki thinks that Artem would be a good dad.
In Sedona, Brie and Bryan meet another shaman. Bryan talks about his mental breakdown from three years ago and how he left Brie for three months to go back home to the state of Washington, and feels he cannot do that again. Brie feels that Bryan seeing leaving as the "healing" part instead of staying with her was what hurt the most. Brie and Bryan talk about what drew them to each other. It becomes clear that the two of them need to devote quality time with each other to their marriage.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie and Bryan pick some spinach and spend some time with Birdie. Brie feels that the trip to Sedona did her and Bryan some good and that they both need to put effort into their marriage or else they will lose it.
Brie meets Artem at a restaurant. Artem tells Brie that he got an engagement ring and admits that he may propose to Nikki. Brie asks Artem to ask for both her and Nikki's mother and father's blessing. Brie is nervous, as even though Artem may be ready, Nikki may not be.
Generation NXT UK - NXT UK recap for May 28, 2020
Note: This week's episode is a "hidden gems" episode with never-before-seen matches.
Finn Balor beats "The Lucky Yin" Kenny Williams in a match from March 7, 2020.
Rhea Ripley beats Nina Samuels in a match from October 5, 2019.
Killian Dain beats "The Kiwi Buzzsaw" Travis Banks in a match from the 2019 Download Festival.
Before the next match, Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) are in the ring. For one night only, they are joined by Joseph Conners. Gibson says he has been backstage all night hearing the fans trying to steal the show and make it about them. Gibson says he can see everyone's wet toes from the ring and tells everyone to put their shoes back on their feet, then states that he and his men would like a warm-up and prove a point. Drake is about to speak, but Conners takes the microphone and says the three of them are willing to take on the best the world has to offer. Suddenly, Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) show up. Street Profits introduces themselves to Conners and Grizzled Young Veterans, then call up Matt Riddle, who shows up.
Next week: Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, Wolfgang)!
Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and Matt Riddle beat Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) and Joseph Conners in a match from July 19, 2019.
Finn Balor beats "The Lucky Yin" Kenny Williams in a match from March 7, 2020.
Rhea Ripley beats Nina Samuels in a match from October 5, 2019.
Killian Dain beats "The Kiwi Buzzsaw" Travis Banks in a match from the 2019 Download Festival.
Before the next match, Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) are in the ring. For one night only, they are joined by Joseph Conners. Gibson says he has been backstage all night hearing the fans trying to steal the show and make it about them. Gibson says he can see everyone's wet toes from the ring and tells everyone to put their shoes back on their feet, then states that he and his men would like a warm-up and prove a point. Drake is about to speak, but Conners takes the microphone and says the three of them are willing to take on the best the world has to offer. Suddenly, Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) show up. Street Profits introduces themselves to Conners and Grizzled Young Veterans, then call up Matt Riddle, who shows up.
Next week: Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, Wolfgang)!
Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and Matt Riddle beat Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) and Joseph Conners in a match from July 19, 2019.
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Generation NXT - NXT recap for May 27, 2020
Drake Maverick beats Jake Atlas and KUSHIDA in a Triple Threat to win Group A of the Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament by pinning Atlas with his right arm while KUSHIDA has Atlas in an arm bar. After the match, El Hijo del Fantasma shows up and offers his hand to Maverick. Both men shake hands.
It is announced that Charlotte Flair will defend the NXT Women's Championship against Io Shirai and Rhea Ripley in a Triple Threat Match at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. As for tonight, Flair will have to team up with a partner of her choosing against the team of Shirai and Ripley.
Backstage, Kurt Angle - who is the referee for Timothy Thatcher vs. Matt Riddle in a Fight Pit Match tonight - gives instructions to Thatcher.
It is revealed that Atlas tapped out to KUSHIDA's arm bar as the referee counted Drake Maverick's pinfall in the previous match.
Johnny Gargano and Candace LeRae show up. Gargano says his way is not about getting rid of people; it is about making NXT better, and says people who are deserving of opportunities should get them. Gargano then announces that tonight is the first-ever Johnny Gargano Invitiational, and for the first time ever, a young Superstar will get the honor of getting in the ring with him. That Superstar is Adrian Alanis.
Johnny Gargano quickly beats Adrian Alanis with the Garga-No Escape. After the match, Mia Yim and Keith Lee mock Gargano and LeRae on the video screen, then are delivered a box with exactly one slice of pizza by Tegan Nox. Mia Yim and Keith Lee then make it clear that they are ready to make Gargano pay.
Backstage, Drake Maverick is being interviewed about the controversy behind his win when KUSHIDA shows up and tells him to go out there and win the NXT Cruiserweight Championship. Maverick tells KUSHIDA that when he wins the title, he will have the first shot.
We hear from Imperium (Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel). Barthel states that they have officially taken over the NXT tag team division, and Aichner says that the titles are not coming off their shoulders. He calls Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch are a disgrace to their countries and the ring. Barthel says that they now dictate the pace and set the rules, and that their era begins now.
Raquel Gonzalez beats Shotzi Blackheart. During the match, Dakota Kai tries to break Shotzi's miniature tank, but Tegan Nox stops her and stays in Shotzi's corner for the rest of the match. Later on in the match, Candice LeRae shows up and confronts Tegan Nox, distracting the referee and allowing Dakota Kai to get involved, giving Raquel the win.
We hear from Finn Balor, who says that Damian Priest is not going about living forever in a very smart away, and that he will kneel at his altar before he buries him. It is then announced that Damian Priest will face Finn Balor at NXT TakeOver: In Your House.
Charlotte Flair's tag team partner is revealed to be Chelsea Green.
Charlotte Flair and Chelsea Green beat Rhea Ripley and Io Shirai after Charlotte uses the ropes for leverage.
Backstage, Johnny Gargano states that he and Candace LeRae are the only power couple in NXT and that he cannot wait to take the North American title from Keith Lee. Candace tells Mia Yim she will see her next week, and tells Tegan Nox that she should be ashamed of herself.
Backstage, Kurt Angle gives instructions to Matt Riddle concerning his Fight Pit Match against Timothy Thatcher tonight.
We see a negotiation between Adam Cole and General Manager William Regal. Adam Cole demands that The Undisputed Era be given a fair shot at the NXT Tag Team Championships, and that Velveteen Dream never steps foot in his business ever again. Regal states that Velveteen Dream deserves another shot at the NXT Championship and that it will happen at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. When Cole states that Dream wants the spotlight on, Regal says that is also true of Cole. Cole takes exception to this, stating that The Undisputed Era has made Regal look very good over the years. He then demands that Velveteen Dream never gets another shot at the NXT title again for as long as he is champion after he wins. Regal agrees to this for NXT TakeOver: In Your House, and says he will find a location that will put a spotlight on both men's talents.
We see a vignette for Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch, where both men meet at a pub concerning their recent hot streak and propose that they take the NXT Tag Team Championships from Imperium (Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel).
Tommaso Ciampa quickly beats Leon Ruff while Scarlett watches from ringside. After the match, Karrion Kross appears on the video screen and agrees that Ciampa is special, and promises that at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, he will make him feel something he has never felt in his life.
Next week: Drake Maverick vs. El Hijo del Fantasma to determine a new NXT Cruiserweight Champion! Mia Yim vs. Candice LeRae!
Timothy Thatcher beats Matt Riddle in a Fight Pit Match with a rear naked choke. Kurt Angle is the special guest referee for the match. During the match, Riddle kicks Thatcher so hard in the face that it bloodies his mouth and knocks out a few teeth. Despite blood dripping out of his mouth, Thatcher is still cleared to fight.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
It is announced that Charlotte Flair will defend the NXT Women's Championship against Io Shirai and Rhea Ripley in a Triple Threat Match at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. As for tonight, Flair will have to team up with a partner of her choosing against the team of Shirai and Ripley.
Backstage, Kurt Angle - who is the referee for Timothy Thatcher vs. Matt Riddle in a Fight Pit Match tonight - gives instructions to Thatcher.
It is revealed that Atlas tapped out to KUSHIDA's arm bar as the referee counted Drake Maverick's pinfall in the previous match.
Johnny Gargano and Candace LeRae show up. Gargano says his way is not about getting rid of people; it is about making NXT better, and says people who are deserving of opportunities should get them. Gargano then announces that tonight is the first-ever Johnny Gargano Invitiational, and for the first time ever, a young Superstar will get the honor of getting in the ring with him. That Superstar is Adrian Alanis.
Johnny Gargano quickly beats Adrian Alanis with the Garga-No Escape. After the match, Mia Yim and Keith Lee mock Gargano and LeRae on the video screen, then are delivered a box with exactly one slice of pizza by Tegan Nox. Mia Yim and Keith Lee then make it clear that they are ready to make Gargano pay.
Backstage, Drake Maverick is being interviewed about the controversy behind his win when KUSHIDA shows up and tells him to go out there and win the NXT Cruiserweight Championship. Maverick tells KUSHIDA that when he wins the title, he will have the first shot.
We hear from Imperium (Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel). Barthel states that they have officially taken over the NXT tag team division, and Aichner says that the titles are not coming off their shoulders. He calls Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch are a disgrace to their countries and the ring. Barthel says that they now dictate the pace and set the rules, and that their era begins now.
Raquel Gonzalez beats Shotzi Blackheart. During the match, Dakota Kai tries to break Shotzi's miniature tank, but Tegan Nox stops her and stays in Shotzi's corner for the rest of the match. Later on in the match, Candice LeRae shows up and confronts Tegan Nox, distracting the referee and allowing Dakota Kai to get involved, giving Raquel the win.
We hear from Finn Balor, who says that Damian Priest is not going about living forever in a very smart away, and that he will kneel at his altar before he buries him. It is then announced that Damian Priest will face Finn Balor at NXT TakeOver: In Your House.
Charlotte Flair's tag team partner is revealed to be Chelsea Green.
Charlotte Flair and Chelsea Green beat Rhea Ripley and Io Shirai after Charlotte uses the ropes for leverage.
Backstage, Johnny Gargano states that he and Candace LeRae are the only power couple in NXT and that he cannot wait to take the North American title from Keith Lee. Candace tells Mia Yim she will see her next week, and tells Tegan Nox that she should be ashamed of herself.
Backstage, Kurt Angle gives instructions to Matt Riddle concerning his Fight Pit Match against Timothy Thatcher tonight.
We see a negotiation between Adam Cole and General Manager William Regal. Adam Cole demands that The Undisputed Era be given a fair shot at the NXT Tag Team Championships, and that Velveteen Dream never steps foot in his business ever again. Regal states that Velveteen Dream deserves another shot at the NXT Championship and that it will happen at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. When Cole states that Dream wants the spotlight on, Regal says that is also true of Cole. Cole takes exception to this, stating that The Undisputed Era has made Regal look very good over the years. He then demands that Velveteen Dream never gets another shot at the NXT title again for as long as he is champion after he wins. Regal agrees to this for NXT TakeOver: In Your House, and says he will find a location that will put a spotlight on both men's talents.
We see a vignette for Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch, where both men meet at a pub concerning their recent hot streak and propose that they take the NXT Tag Team Championships from Imperium (Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel).
Tommaso Ciampa quickly beats Leon Ruff while Scarlett watches from ringside. After the match, Karrion Kross appears on the video screen and agrees that Ciampa is special, and promises that at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, he will make him feel something he has never felt in his life.
Next week: Drake Maverick vs. El Hijo del Fantasma to determine a new NXT Cruiserweight Champion! Mia Yim vs. Candice LeRae!
Timothy Thatcher beats Matt Riddle in a Fight Pit Match with a rear naked choke. Kurt Angle is the special guest referee for the match. During the match, Riddle kicks Thatcher so hard in the face that it bloodies his mouth and knocks out a few teeth. Despite blood dripping out of his mouth, Thatcher is still cleared to fight.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
Those Dynamite Kids - Dynamite recap for May 27, 2020
The show begins with The Inner Circle talking backstage. Chris Jericho says it may have been a tough week and their egos may be bruised, but they are having a pep rally to fire up, get back on top and find a way to recoup the money spent on all the shirts stating they won the Stadium Stampede that they bought. Santana reveals that thanks to a deal he made with a friend, they have way more than a whole truck's worth of shirts. Jericho wipes his brow in shock.
Before the next match, Matt Hardy says he was proud to go to war with The Elite at Double or Nothing. "Hangman" Adam Page leaves for a drink and Kenny Omega leaves with him, then Hardy says that he and The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) will team up for the first time ever. The Young Bucks request that they team up with a different version of Matt, and after initially getting "Team Extreme" Matt, Matt Hardy turns back the clock even more.
Matt Hardy and The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) beat "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela and Private Party (Marq Quen and Isiah Kassidy). During the match, Quen inadvertently tweaks his knee during a tope suicida, effectively turn the match into a 3-on-2 handicap match. Matt Hardy and referee Rick Knox help Marq Quen to the back after the match, then The Butcher and The Blade attack The Young Bucks after one of the Bucks inadvertently superkicks The Blade on the outside during the match. Suddenly, a black pick-up truck speeds in, and The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) - now known as FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) - get in the ring and tease attacking The Young Bucks only to attack The Butcher and The Blade instead. The Young Bucks superkick The Butcher when he gets back in the ring, then the Bucks and FTR have a stand-off before FTR walk away.
Jon Moxley guests on commentary for the next match.
Brian Cage beats Lee Johnson in his Dynamite debut. At the start of the match, QT Marshall is seen being distracted by Allie in the stands. After the match, Taz tells Jon Moxley that it is great to see him and that he has respected what he has done in the business, and tells him that he will be dealing with something different - a machine - at Fyter Fest, and to bring the grit and heart that he is known for, as Brian Cage will put his head in his chest and rip his heart out. Taz then tells Moxley "Beat him if you can...survive if he lets you." Moxley is game for a fight after this.
Tony Schiavone interviews Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. - who is in a wheelchair with the words "Roll Model" on the back of the seat - on the stage. Britt Baker then goes over the third rule of being a role model: don't hurt the role model. She calls last week's "egregious, tandem assault" on her left her with a broken tibia as well as a conspiracy that goes far and beyond due to it being a 3-on-1 attack on her that had been - in her words - in the making for months, and says that she is close friends with some top TNT executives and that without her, there would be no women's division. She then says Kris Statlander being an alien is "a crock of shit," that Hikaru Shida broke her nose, brandishes a weapon and is a fraudulent champion, and that "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose is smart enough to guide herself away from her fragile leg. Reba then brings out a board providing evidence of "a web of evil centered on the brains of the operation, [referee] Aubrey Edwards," mentioning that Edwards was there every time she got injured. Baker then says that everyone has been put on notice, saying that everyone has tried to take her out, but the joke is on them as she will be back at All Out.
Backstage, Chris Jericho says The Inner Circle's pep rally will be one of the greatest spectacles in AEW history and that they will get back on track. Suddenly, Orange Cassidy walks in on the interview, looks around, and then walks out. Jericho takes exception to this and says he will see him later.
Hikaru Shida beats Christi Jaynes.
Tony Schiavone interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes in the ring. Cody compares himself to Tom Brady, saying he was not first pick and yet he ran the score up and that when Tony Khan thinks of making AEW a merit-based company, he wants the best in the world. Cody admits that he wasn't even the third call, but he is the very first champion of the world's greatest network. Cody says his story is not based on nepotism or favoritism, as he grew up and got better while the whole world watched. He says that his mother taught him everything he knows about grit and that he will outperform anybody bell-to-bell and asks that he be judged by what he does next. Cody announces that he will stand in the ring every week and propose an open challenge, and asks that if the people can give AEW two hours of their time, he can give them the best in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, as this is where the fun begins.
"Superbad" Kip Sabian and Jimmy Havoc beat SoCal Uncensored (Frankie Kazarian and Scorpio Sky) after Penelope Ford grabs Kazarian's foot to stop the SCU-Later.
In footage from earlier today, MJF says he is perfection in the ring and on the microphone and the breakout star in AEW without having to come from elsewhere to get that handle. He also says that he has been undefeated for over a year, but he has still not received a title opportunity in the company does not like him. He then says that when that certain someone was holding a battle royal to see would face him for the AEW TNT Championship, he made sure that that certain person would get some good competition. MJF also states that Wardlow will also be in the battle royal, and when he and Wardlow are in the final two, Wardlow knows what to do. Wardlow says "But," MJF says "But nothing!" then says he was kidding and that they will have fun in the ring.
Jungle Boy last eliminates Orange Cassidy to win a battle royal and face "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the AEW TNT Championship. Orange Cassidy is attacked by Santana and Ortiz before he can get in the ring for the match, but he is able to enter the match near the end. Colt Cabana is given a flyer to join The Dark Order by somebody in the stands after he is eliminated. MJF and Wardlow are both eliminated by Orange Cassidy and Jungle Boy, who end up being the final two men in the match.
Next week: Jungle Boy vs. "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the AEW TNT Championship! Jimmy Havoc and "Superbad" Kip Sabian vs. Kenny Omega and "Hangman" Adam Page for the AEW World Tag Team Championships! Chris Jericho in action!
Vickie Guerrero shows up to kick off The Inner Circle's pep rally. Chris Jericho welcomes everyone to the pep rally, and admits that while it has been a rough time for The Inner Circle, they will rise again. The Inner Circle throws their shirts into the crowd, but a few of them get thrown back into the ring. Sammy Guevara says that while they did not win the Stadium Stampede, they participated, and that he has gotten The Inner Circle participation trophies. (Jericho's reads "King of Dad Jokes." Santana gives everyone else in The Inner Circle random things (including a pair of Timberlands for Jake Hager and a picture of Marc Anthony for Jericho). Jericho gives Guevara a scooter to replace his crutches and Ortiz a pair of headphones to help him hear after suffering from ringing ears after the Stadium Stampede match. Hager reads a poem, which ends with Hager threaten to beat up The Elite where they individually live. Guevara then asks Jericho what he truly wants, and Jericho says he wants Mike Tyson's head on a platter, as he has not forgotten what Tyson did to him on January 11, 2010 on Raw, and ever since the day Tyson turned traitor of him, he has dreamed of getting his hand on Tyson's head. Guevara says he couldn't get him that, but he did get him a cheese platter and "a little bit of the bubbly." Unfortunately, there is no cheese and no "bubbly," and when Jericho asks where it is, Tyson shows up with an entire entourage. Jericho tells Tyson that he has been dreaming of this moment for ten years, and Tyson said he knocked him out because he stole the championship. Jericho then gives Tyson one chance and once chance only to apologize for knocking him out before he does the same to him. Tyson rips his shirt off and flexes, then shoves him. This starts a brawl between The Inner Circle and the entourage, and the entire locker room runs to the ring to keep all hell from breaking loose. It takes Tyson's entire entourage and then some to hold Tyson back as Jericho is restrained in the ring.
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
Before the next match, Matt Hardy says he was proud to go to war with The Elite at Double or Nothing. "Hangman" Adam Page leaves for a drink and Kenny Omega leaves with him, then Hardy says that he and The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) will team up for the first time ever. The Young Bucks request that they team up with a different version of Matt, and after initially getting "Team Extreme" Matt, Matt Hardy turns back the clock even more.
Matt Hardy and The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) beat "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela and Private Party (Marq Quen and Isiah Kassidy). During the match, Quen inadvertently tweaks his knee during a tope suicida, effectively turn the match into a 3-on-2 handicap match. Matt Hardy and referee Rick Knox help Marq Quen to the back after the match, then The Butcher and The Blade attack The Young Bucks after one of the Bucks inadvertently superkicks The Blade on the outside during the match. Suddenly, a black pick-up truck speeds in, and The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) - now known as FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) - get in the ring and tease attacking The Young Bucks only to attack The Butcher and The Blade instead. The Young Bucks superkick The Butcher when he gets back in the ring, then the Bucks and FTR have a stand-off before FTR walk away.
Jon Moxley guests on commentary for the next match.
Brian Cage beats Lee Johnson in his Dynamite debut. At the start of the match, QT Marshall is seen being distracted by Allie in the stands. After the match, Taz tells Jon Moxley that it is great to see him and that he has respected what he has done in the business, and tells him that he will be dealing with something different - a machine - at Fyter Fest, and to bring the grit and heart that he is known for, as Brian Cage will put his head in his chest and rip his heart out. Taz then tells Moxley "Beat him if you can...survive if he lets you." Moxley is game for a fight after this.
Tony Schiavone interviews Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. - who is in a wheelchair with the words "Roll Model" on the back of the seat - on the stage. Britt Baker then goes over the third rule of being a role model: don't hurt the role model. She calls last week's "egregious, tandem assault" on her left her with a broken tibia as well as a conspiracy that goes far and beyond due to it being a 3-on-1 attack on her that had been - in her words - in the making for months, and says that she is close friends with some top TNT executives and that without her, there would be no women's division. She then says Kris Statlander being an alien is "a crock of shit," that Hikaru Shida broke her nose, brandishes a weapon and is a fraudulent champion, and that "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose is smart enough to guide herself away from her fragile leg. Reba then brings out a board providing evidence of "a web of evil centered on the brains of the operation, [referee] Aubrey Edwards," mentioning that Edwards was there every time she got injured. Baker then says that everyone has been put on notice, saying that everyone has tried to take her out, but the joke is on them as she will be back at All Out.
Backstage, Chris Jericho says The Inner Circle's pep rally will be one of the greatest spectacles in AEW history and that they will get back on track. Suddenly, Orange Cassidy walks in on the interview, looks around, and then walks out. Jericho takes exception to this and says he will see him later.
Hikaru Shida beats Christi Jaynes.
Tony Schiavone interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes in the ring. Cody compares himself to Tom Brady, saying he was not first pick and yet he ran the score up and that when Tony Khan thinks of making AEW a merit-based company, he wants the best in the world. Cody admits that he wasn't even the third call, but he is the very first champion of the world's greatest network. Cody says his story is not based on nepotism or favoritism, as he grew up and got better while the whole world watched. He says that his mother taught him everything he knows about grit and that he will outperform anybody bell-to-bell and asks that he be judged by what he does next. Cody announces that he will stand in the ring every week and propose an open challenge, and asks that if the people can give AEW two hours of their time, he can give them the best in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, as this is where the fun begins.
"Superbad" Kip Sabian and Jimmy Havoc beat SoCal Uncensored (Frankie Kazarian and Scorpio Sky) after Penelope Ford grabs Kazarian's foot to stop the SCU-Later.
In footage from earlier today, MJF says he is perfection in the ring and on the microphone and the breakout star in AEW without having to come from elsewhere to get that handle. He also says that he has been undefeated for over a year, but he has still not received a title opportunity in the company does not like him. He then says that when that certain someone was holding a battle royal to see would face him for the AEW TNT Championship, he made sure that that certain person would get some good competition. MJF also states that Wardlow will also be in the battle royal, and when he and Wardlow are in the final two, Wardlow knows what to do. Wardlow says "But," MJF says "But nothing!" then says he was kidding and that they will have fun in the ring.
Jungle Boy last eliminates Orange Cassidy to win a battle royal and face "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the AEW TNT Championship. Orange Cassidy is attacked by Santana and Ortiz before he can get in the ring for the match, but he is able to enter the match near the end. Colt Cabana is given a flyer to join The Dark Order by somebody in the stands after he is eliminated. MJF and Wardlow are both eliminated by Orange Cassidy and Jungle Boy, who end up being the final two men in the match.
Next week: Jungle Boy vs. "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the AEW TNT Championship! Jimmy Havoc and "Superbad" Kip Sabian vs. Kenny Omega and "Hangman" Adam Page for the AEW World Tag Team Championships! Chris Jericho in action!
Vickie Guerrero shows up to kick off The Inner Circle's pep rally. Chris Jericho welcomes everyone to the pep rally, and admits that while it has been a rough time for The Inner Circle, they will rise again. The Inner Circle throws their shirts into the crowd, but a few of them get thrown back into the ring. Sammy Guevara says that while they did not win the Stadium Stampede, they participated, and that he has gotten The Inner Circle participation trophies. (Jericho's reads "King of Dad Jokes." Santana gives everyone else in The Inner Circle random things (including a pair of Timberlands for Jake Hager and a picture of Marc Anthony for Jericho). Jericho gives Guevara a scooter to replace his crutches and Ortiz a pair of headphones to help him hear after suffering from ringing ears after the Stadium Stampede match. Hager reads a poem, which ends with Hager threaten to beat up The Elite where they individually live. Guevara then asks Jericho what he truly wants, and Jericho says he wants Mike Tyson's head on a platter, as he has not forgotten what Tyson did to him on January 11, 2010 on Raw, and ever since the day Tyson turned traitor of him, he has dreamed of getting his hand on Tyson's head. Guevara says he couldn't get him that, but he did get him a cheese platter and "a little bit of the bubbly." Unfortunately, there is no cheese and no "bubbly," and when Jericho asks where it is, Tyson shows up with an entire entourage. Jericho tells Tyson that he has been dreaming of this moment for ten years, and Tyson said he knocked him out because he stole the championship. Jericho then gives Tyson one chance and once chance only to apologize for knocking him out before he does the same to him. Tyson rips his shirt off and flexes, then shoves him. This starts a brawl between The Inner Circle and the entourage, and the entire locker room runs to the ring to keep all hell from breaking loose. It takes Tyson's entire entourage and then some to hold Tyson back as Jericho is restrained in the ring.
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
After Dark - AEW Dark recap for May 26, 2020
Before the show, Tazz says he will not get into details concerning his working relationship with Brian Cage.
The Natural Nightmares ("The Natural" Dustin Rhodes and QT Marshall) beat The Dark Order (Alex Reynolds and John Silver). During the match, Allie (who is no longer The Bunny here) shows up in the empty stands, eating an apple and distracting Marshall in the process.
Michael Nakazawa beats Brandon Cutler by count-out. (The count-out victory is the first in AEW history. During the match, Nakazawa not only is forced to use his wrestling ability after the referee tosses his first bottle of Turkish oil out and Cutler throws out his second, but also has his trunks fall apart on him.) After the match, "The Librarian" Peter Avalon shows up with "The Librarian" Leva Bates and makes fun of Cutler, telling him that he sucks and that he is the worst wrestler in AEW. Cutler takes the microphone and tells Avalon that he is afraid that he will get a win before him and leave him in the dust. Avalon takes this as a challenge and says his match is up next, and tells Cutler to watch him get the win. Cutler then guests on commentary for the next match.
Jungle Boy beats "The Librarian" Peter Avalon with the SGS after "The Librarian" Leva Bates' interference attempt backfires, with Luchasaurus holding Bates on his shoulders while Marko Stunt kisses Bates.
"The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels beats Serpentico.
Sonny Kiss and "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela beat John Skyler and Brady Pierce.
Jimmy Havoc and "Superbad" Kip Sabian beat Tony Donati and Faboo Andre.
Wardlow beats the debuting Mr. Grim by referee stoppage after Wardlow knocks Mr. Grim out. After the match, Wardlow gets Mr. Grim up and hits him with the F-10.
Colt Cabana beats Lee Johnson with the Billy Goat's Curse.
Penelope Ford beats the debuting KiLynn King.
Best Friends (Chuck Taylor and Trent) beat Shawn Dean and Alan Angels.
The Natural Nightmares ("The Natural" Dustin Rhodes and QT Marshall) beat The Dark Order (Alex Reynolds and John Silver). During the match, Allie (who is no longer The Bunny here) shows up in the empty stands, eating an apple and distracting Marshall in the process.
Michael Nakazawa beats Brandon Cutler by count-out. (The count-out victory is the first in AEW history. During the match, Nakazawa not only is forced to use his wrestling ability after the referee tosses his first bottle of Turkish oil out and Cutler throws out his second, but also has his trunks fall apart on him.) After the match, "The Librarian" Peter Avalon shows up with "The Librarian" Leva Bates and makes fun of Cutler, telling him that he sucks and that he is the worst wrestler in AEW. Cutler takes the microphone and tells Avalon that he is afraid that he will get a win before him and leave him in the dust. Avalon takes this as a challenge and says his match is up next, and tells Cutler to watch him get the win. Cutler then guests on commentary for the next match.
Jungle Boy beats "The Librarian" Peter Avalon with the SGS after "The Librarian" Leva Bates' interference attempt backfires, with Luchasaurus holding Bates on his shoulders while Marko Stunt kisses Bates.
"The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels beats Serpentico.
Sonny Kiss and "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela beat John Skyler and Brady Pierce.
Jimmy Havoc and "Superbad" Kip Sabian beat Tony Donati and Faboo Andre.
Wardlow beats the debuting Mr. Grim by referee stoppage after Wardlow knocks Mr. Grim out. After the match, Wardlow gets Mr. Grim up and hits him with the F-10.
Colt Cabana beats Lee Johnson with the Billy Goat's Curse.
Penelope Ford beats the debuting KiLynn King.
Best Friends (Chuck Taylor and Trent) beat Shawn Dean and Alan Angels.
Final Impact - Impact Wrestling recap for May 26, 2020
In memory of Shad Gaspard, 1981 - 2020. In memory of Hama Kimura, 1997 - 2020.
Ace Austin beats Hernandez to advance to the finals of the Impact World Championship #1 Contender's Tournament after working on Hernandez's knee throughout the match.
We sees a video package of Cody Deaner on a four-wheeler after yelling at a guy on a motorcycle.
Backstage, Johnny Swinger tells Chris Bey that they will get along time as a tag team and that he has all the tricks up his sleeves. Chris Bey just wants Swinger to get in the ring and get the job done.
We see The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) in a white limousine, making fun of Cody Deaner's neck of the woods. They are suddenly welcomed by a strange man, who tells them that something happened to the last people who laughed at the Deaners before running.
We hear from Michael Elgin, who tells Trey Miguel that it is time for him to stop running and be serious, for he will always be the number one contender for the Impact World Championship.
Chris Bey beats Cousin Jake following the distraction by Johnny Swinger. After the match, Swinger and Bey stomp on Cousin Jake, then Willie Mack shows up and forces them to retreat.
Backstage, Rohit Raju wants to know what his next opportunity is, as there is nothing next for him. Suddenly, Chase Stevens shows up and accuses him and TNA originals of taking his spotlight. Stevens says that his resume pales to Rohit's, which consists of being slapped around by Gama Singh. Rohit takes offense to this and challenges him to a match next week. Stevens is not exactly stressed out about this.
Kimber Lee beats Havok by disqualification. During the match, Kimber Lee rakes Havok in the eyes and gets her brass knuckles, but when she is about to strike, Neveah shows up and attacks Kimber Lee and kicks her brass knuckles out of the ring, ending the match. Havok and Neveah team up and annihilate Kimber Lee, then celebrate in the ring.
Backstage, Kylie Rae runs into Kiera Hogan and Tasha Steelz. As Kiera and Tasha confront Kylie Rae, who yells at them, Susie shows up and tells them to stop. Tasha hits Kylie with a cheap shot to the gut, then she and Kiera stomp on Susie. This action awakens Susie's dark side.
The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) approach the Deaner compound. When the door refuses to open, they turn back, but the guy from last time shows up and runs away again. Suddenly, the doors open up and The North are welcomed to the compound.
Backstage, Joseph P. Ryan meets with oVe, asking them to come into the ring so as to learn how to deal with problems like #CancelCulture (Rob Van Dam, Katie Forbes, Ryan).
At Cody Deaner peps up the rest of the Deaner compound members, The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) show up and demand a 2-on-2 match. Cody insists that everything is fair, and the referee from last week shows up. Suddenly, a woman shows up on a tractor, but when The North find out she is not Wheels, Page begins to verbally bash the place and throws a toy car that belongs to Wheels: a big man who takes offense to his cars being touched.
The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) retain the Impact World Tag Team Championships against Cody Deaner and Wheels at the Deaner Compound in the middle of Canada after The North's announcer from the past few weeks gets involved in the match by hitting Wheels with a low blow, revealing that he is wearing a referee's shirt, and making a fast count to help The North retain the tag team titles after the original referee knocks himself after missing a top rope 450 splash. After the match, The North and their announcer/referee are chased out of the Deaner Compound.
Backstage, TJP and Fallah Bahh are interviewed. TJP says their are still on The North's ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) trail, and it was not too long ago that they had the whole tag team division in the ring. Suddenly, The Rascalz (Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz) show up and say that they are ahead of TJP and Fallah Bahh in the line, and TJP challenges them to a match next week. The Rascalz accept.
At the treehouse, Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz mention their backstage meeting with TJP and Fallah Bahh from earlier. Suddenly, Moose shows up and hands Trey Miguel a pair of sunglasses. Moose tells Trey Miguel that he should come after the TNA World Heavyweight Championship and be like some of the greatest TNA alumni. When he asks Trey if he wants to be like him, The Rascalz laugh. Moose tells them to remember what happened the last time they made fun of him, then leave.
The Impact Plus Flashback Moment of the Week is Moose vs. Cody Rhodes for the Impact Grand Championship on March 30, 2017.
We hear from "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo, who says that she has outstanding technical ability and boasts that she unlocked parts of her brain to be faster than the competition.
At the bar, Rosemary talks with John E. Bravo about a guy that he used to date as well as Father James Mitchell. Bravo says he feels he has sold his soul to Taya Valkyrie (whom he does not mention by name), but Rosemary tells him he has a demon in his corner. Rosemary proposes they find someplace different next week, and tells Bravo that she does not sacrifice somebody on an altar on the first date.
Next week: The Rascalz (Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz) vs. TJP and Fallah Bahh! Kiera Hogan and Tasha Steelz vs. Kylie Ray and Susie! Crazzy Steve vs. Joseph P. Ryan! Chris Bey guests on Locker Room Talk! The finals of the Impact World Championship #1 Contender's Tournament!
Trey Miguel beats Michael Elgin to advance to the finals of the Impact World Championship #1 Contender's Tournament after Sami Callihan's "ICU" graphic pops up and white noise is heard throughout the arena, distracting Elgin and allowing Trey to win with a jackknife pin on a distracted Elgin. After the match, Michael Elgin is furious for having lost.
Here's tonight's post-show!
Here's all the backstage segments!
Here's the top five moments from tonight's show!
Ace Austin beats Hernandez to advance to the finals of the Impact World Championship #1 Contender's Tournament after working on Hernandez's knee throughout the match.
We sees a video package of Cody Deaner on a four-wheeler after yelling at a guy on a motorcycle.
Backstage, Johnny Swinger tells Chris Bey that they will get along time as a tag team and that he has all the tricks up his sleeves. Chris Bey just wants Swinger to get in the ring and get the job done.
We see The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) in a white limousine, making fun of Cody Deaner's neck of the woods. They are suddenly welcomed by a strange man, who tells them that something happened to the last people who laughed at the Deaners before running.
We hear from Michael Elgin, who tells Trey Miguel that it is time for him to stop running and be serious, for he will always be the number one contender for the Impact World Championship.
Chris Bey beats Cousin Jake following the distraction by Johnny Swinger. After the match, Swinger and Bey stomp on Cousin Jake, then Willie Mack shows up and forces them to retreat.
Backstage, Rohit Raju wants to know what his next opportunity is, as there is nothing next for him. Suddenly, Chase Stevens shows up and accuses him and TNA originals of taking his spotlight. Stevens says that his resume pales to Rohit's, which consists of being slapped around by Gama Singh. Rohit takes offense to this and challenges him to a match next week. Stevens is not exactly stressed out about this.
Kimber Lee beats Havok by disqualification. During the match, Kimber Lee rakes Havok in the eyes and gets her brass knuckles, but when she is about to strike, Neveah shows up and attacks Kimber Lee and kicks her brass knuckles out of the ring, ending the match. Havok and Neveah team up and annihilate Kimber Lee, then celebrate in the ring.
Backstage, Kylie Rae runs into Kiera Hogan and Tasha Steelz. As Kiera and Tasha confront Kylie Rae, who yells at them, Susie shows up and tells them to stop. Tasha hits Kylie with a cheap shot to the gut, then she and Kiera stomp on Susie. This action awakens Susie's dark side.
The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) approach the Deaner compound. When the door refuses to open, they turn back, but the guy from last time shows up and runs away again. Suddenly, the doors open up and The North are welcomed to the compound.
Backstage, Joseph P. Ryan meets with oVe, asking them to come into the ring so as to learn how to deal with problems like #CancelCulture (Rob Van Dam, Katie Forbes, Ryan).
At Cody Deaner peps up the rest of the Deaner compound members, The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) show up and demand a 2-on-2 match. Cody insists that everything is fair, and the referee from last week shows up. Suddenly, a woman shows up on a tractor, but when The North find out she is not Wheels, Page begins to verbally bash the place and throws a toy car that belongs to Wheels: a big man who takes offense to his cars being touched.
The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) retain the Impact World Tag Team Championships against Cody Deaner and Wheels at the Deaner Compound in the middle of Canada after The North's announcer from the past few weeks gets involved in the match by hitting Wheels with a low blow, revealing that he is wearing a referee's shirt, and making a fast count to help The North retain the tag team titles after the original referee knocks himself after missing a top rope 450 splash. After the match, The North and their announcer/referee are chased out of the Deaner Compound.
Backstage, TJP and Fallah Bahh are interviewed. TJP says their are still on The North's ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) trail, and it was not too long ago that they had the whole tag team division in the ring. Suddenly, The Rascalz (Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz) show up and say that they are ahead of TJP and Fallah Bahh in the line, and TJP challenges them to a match next week. The Rascalz accept.
At the treehouse, Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz mention their backstage meeting with TJP and Fallah Bahh from earlier. Suddenly, Moose shows up and hands Trey Miguel a pair of sunglasses. Moose tells Trey Miguel that he should come after the TNA World Heavyweight Championship and be like some of the greatest TNA alumni. When he asks Trey if he wants to be like him, The Rascalz laugh. Moose tells them to remember what happened the last time they made fun of him, then leave.
The Impact Plus Flashback Moment of the Week is Moose vs. Cody Rhodes for the Impact Grand Championship on March 30, 2017.
We hear from "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo, who says that she has outstanding technical ability and boasts that she unlocked parts of her brain to be faster than the competition.
At the bar, Rosemary talks with John E. Bravo about a guy that he used to date as well as Father James Mitchell. Bravo says he feels he has sold his soul to Taya Valkyrie (whom he does not mention by name), but Rosemary tells him he has a demon in his corner. Rosemary proposes they find someplace different next week, and tells Bravo that she does not sacrifice somebody on an altar on the first date.
Next week: The Rascalz (Dezmond Xavier and Zachary Wentz) vs. TJP and Fallah Bahh! Kiera Hogan and Tasha Steelz vs. Kylie Ray and Susie! Crazzy Steve vs. Joseph P. Ryan! Chris Bey guests on Locker Room Talk! The finals of the Impact World Championship #1 Contender's Tournament!
Trey Miguel beats Michael Elgin to advance to the finals of the Impact World Championship #1 Contender's Tournament after Sami Callihan's "ICU" graphic pops up and white noise is heard throughout the arena, distracting Elgin and allowing Trey to win with a jackknife pin on a distracted Elgin. After the match, Michael Elgin is furious for having lost.
Here's tonight's post-show!
Here's all the backstage segments!
Here's the top five moments from tonight's show!
Monday, May 25, 2020
Raw Deal - Raw recap for May 25, 2020
WWE takes time to acknowledge Memorial Day in the United States.
For the first time, members of NXT and the WWE Performance Center act as fans behind the barricade.
Kevin Owens starts tonight's show with The Kevin Owens Show. He announces he will face Angel Garza later tonight, then talks about tonight's Triple Threat Match, where the winner faces Asuka for the Raw Women's Championship at Backlash. Owens the introduces the Raw Women's Champion, Asuka. Asuka starts a "Becky" chant when she shows up. The topic then switches to Nia Jax's attack on both Asuka and Kairi Sane from last week. Asuka doesn't get a chance to say much when Charlotte Flair shows up. Charlotte tells Asuka that the Raw Women's Championship should have been handed to her, as every time they have faced off, Asuka has never beaten her. Suddenly, Natalya shows up. Natalya apologizes to Owens and his show's crew for her actions last week, but Charlotte interrupts and says that sucking up to Kevin Owens won't help her win tonight. As Charlotte jokingly apologizes to Asuka and said that she should have called Natalya "irrelevant," Nia Jax shows up and says everyone knows she will be the next champion and tells everyone to get ready. As Nia gets in the ring, Kevin Owens gets out, and Nia says what she did to Kairi Sane will be a taste of what she does to Asuka at Backlash. Owens leaves and tells Asuka not to hit Nia in the face. Asuka hits Nia in the face with a spinning backfist, starting a brawl. Asuka is quickly the only one left in the ring, yelling at Nia Jax at brawl's end.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Apollo Crews. Crews says tonight is the greatest night of his career, for he will beat Andrade and become WWE United States Champion.
Apollo Crews beats Andrade to become WWE United States Champion! During the match, Kayla Braxton interviews Angel Garza, who says a match is like making love, due to the eye contract, the moment between the two bodies coming together and what happens when they crash together. After the match, Charly Caruso interviews Apollo in the ring. Crews says that when he started, everyone told him he couldn't do it, but he never gave up, and after eleven years, he can say he won his first WWE title. He knows that people thought he blew his chance, but he continued to believe in himself and now he can tell the world that he is the new United States Champion. As Apollo Crews celebrates, Andrade is destroying things backstage.
Backstage, Seth Rollins stares at a purple Rey Mysterio mask.
Backstage, we hear from Seth Rollins, who says that tonight is a night of celebration as he is here and better than ever thanks to Rey Mysterio. He says that he was in a dark place after Money In The Bank until Rey presented himself in his time of need and allowed himself to be sacrificed for the greater good, and says he cannot imagine the pain that Rey and his family went through. Seth says he does not know what the future holds for Rey, but if that act was his final act as a WWE Superstar, then it was a courageous win, for it allowed him and his disciples to move into the future. Seth then introduces his newest disciple Austin Theory, and says that Theory and Murphy know what it is like to be cast aside and be overlooked. Murphy says he has faced many obstacles, but he needed a leader and he needed Rollins. Theory says that when he came to Raw, he thought he had friends, but when they abandoned him, Rollins found him, and he thanks him for that. Rollins says they are welcome and that the night is only beginning, for later on tonight, they will show Rey the goodness he has brought to Raw when they make examples out of Humberto Carrillo and Aleister Black.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Charlotte Flair. Charlotte says she is the most consistent and prolific women's champion in WWE history, and that she has raised the bar for the women's division and that nobody else compares. Asuka suddenly dances her way into the interview and tells Charlotte that red is not her color before dancing away.
The IIconics (Billie Kay and Peyton Royce) show up. Peyton Royce apologizes to Billie Kay for their loss last week, but Billie says she is the one to apologize for slapping her backstage, saying it made her sick to her stomach and that they have come so far, and that there should be no animosity. After mentioning that they have done so much together, and says they never had the opportunity to defend the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships. As they say that Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross have what is theirs, Alexa and Nikki show up. Alexa tells The IIconics had every opportunity, despite taking shortcuts and cheap shots to get them, and blew them all. When Nikki speaks, The IIconics tell her to shut up and look grateful. Nikki says that she has taken the same steps that Alexa has, having left Glasgow, Scotland with nothing, and when Alexa showed up, she gave her time and was there for her to keep her from bouncing off the walls. When Nikki says she cannot think of anything more IIconic than that, The IIconics attack Nikki and Alexa and lay them out before holding up the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
Backstage, MVP is met by Lana, who tells MVP "We need to talk." MVP says "No. We don't," then leaves.
In memory of Shad Gaspard, 1981 - 2020.
It's time for The VIP Lounge. After MVP gives a warm welcome to the Performance Center attendees, he says that The VIP Lounge will still be the only one to hold the star power of the "soon-to-be-former" WWE Champion, Drew McIntyre, whom he introduces to the ring. McIntyre tosses the couches in the ring around, then demands to know where Bobby Lashley is. MVP tells him not to worry about an ambush, saying "No contract, no contact" and that the physical aggression will be saved for the match. MVP then asks McIntyre to look back to when he offered him his services only to get Claymore Kicked, and says that after ending up on his back, he knew McIntyre would be champion and that he would play a role in him losing it. He says that after thirteen years, Lashley has a WWE Championship opportunity because of him, but McIntyre is not impressed, saying it took nineteen years to get his first opportunity, enter the main event of WrestleMania and beat Brock Lesnar in five minutes. He says Lashley will not be so lucky, and says that the things he said the last time he was in The VIP Lounge resonated perfectly. McIntyre says he does not need anyone to think or talk for him, or also kiss his ass. He says Lashley will not be so lucky, and says that the things he said the last time he was in The VIP Lounge resonated perfectly. McIntyre says he does not need anyone to think or talk for him, or also kiss his ass. After MVP introduces Lashley, he gets Claymore Kicked, and Lashley has to help MVP to the outside. MVP stops Lashley from getting into the ring as McIntyre demands Lashley fight him right now.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Natalya, who suddenly has to take a call. It is from her husband TJ aka Tyson Kidd, who is not happy with her after her apology to Kevin Owens. When she gets back to the interview, Charly Caruso says her interview time has run out.
Angel Garza attacks Kevin Owens as Owens makes his way to the ring for the next match, smashing Owens' left knee into the ramp.
Angel Garza beats Kevin Owens with the Wing Clipper after Owens' left knee gives out during the pop-up powerbomb. After the match, Garza kicks Owens in the back of his left knee.
In footage from earlier today, The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up for their game of golf with Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). Despite the rules of etiquette being mentioned, all etiquette gets thrown out the window and The Viking Raiders quickly get frustrated. Both teams get kicked off the golf course, and they both head to a miniature gold course. Not surprisingly, all logic and reason goes out the window, Street Profits win, and The Viking Raiders get the same treatment from a member of staff that they did from the police officer from the ax throwing competition. Street Profits lead two-to-one, then Ivar finds a wallet, a Solo cup and a turkey leg inside the last hole. Ivar tries to stop a gator from staring at him, but Street Profits hold him back.
Backstage, Lana apologizes to MVP and brings him a bag of ice, but MVP asks Lana if she thinks this is a joke and asys that Drew McIntyre sent a message to Bobby Lashley. MVP says they must send a message back, then gives the bag back to Lana. Lana is furious.
Seth Rollins talks to Austin Theory and Murphy backstage before the next match.
Austin Theory and Murphy beat Humberto Carrillo and Aleister Black. After the match, Theory and Murphy toss Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo, and Seth Rollins says that Humberto "needs to learn." Murphy and Theory then take Carrillo to the steel steps. Rollins also tells Aleister not to take another step or else Humberto will lose an eye. Rollins says that he knows Aleister and Carrillo are fighting for Rey Mysterio, but Rey was sacrificed, and that if they continue to fight, it will be for nothing. He then tells Aleister to put the chair down and take it out of the ring, which Aleister does. Murphy and Theory then let go of Carrillo and follow Rollins to the back.
Backstage, we hear from Edge, who says that Randy Orton caught him flat-footed as he congratulates Orton for laying the bait last week. He says that he doubts his ability, and during his over 3,000 days of retirement, Orton had over 1,000 matches. Edge says he must now prove himself to himself, and thanks Orton for making him contemplate things he either has not contemplated or buried very deeply. After contemplating whether to hang up the boots, he is still here. If Orton wants to doubt his wrestling ability, then he needs to look to whom he has faced through his career and every style he adapted to in order to pull people up to his level as a workhorse of the company. He then mentions that everything he has said has been in the past tense, for he does not know if he can do any of those things anymore, then says at Backlash, he will dig to the very depths of his soul to beat Orton.
Backstage, Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) meet. Once again, The Viking Raiders tell Street Profits that they let them win again. When given the choice to pick the next game for their competition, The Viking Raiders ask "Have you ever bowled?" before leaving. MVP then shows up with Bobby Lashley, saying that Street Profits are clowns who waste their talents golfing. After Street Profits make fun of MVP for getting a Claymore Kick and show how unimpressed they are with Lashley, MVP challenges them to a tag team match against him and Lashley tonight.
Asuka guests on commentary for the next match.
Nia Jax beats Natalya and Charlotte Flair in a Triple Threat Match to face Asuka for the WWE Raw Women's Championship at Backlash.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Drew McIntyre, who is about to leave when he says that he did mean to hit MVP with a Claymore Kick, but that he was asking for it. As for MVP and Bobby Lashley's tag team match tonight, McIntyre decides to stick around for it.
We look back on The Rock 'n Sock Connection (The Rock and Mankind), courtesy of Dairy Queen.
We hear from R-Truth, who says that he knows Rob Gronkowski is the WWE 24/7 Champion, and says that he is coming for him and will tackle any "football men" to get to Gronk before putting on shoulder pads. We then hear from Gronkowski, who tells "R-Lies" to bring it on before telling R-Truth that he is prepared to make sure the WWE 24/7 Championship stays with him and that he has eyes in the back of his head.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews MVP and Bobby Lashley. When asked why he is taking on Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) tonight, MVP points to Lashley and says "That's why."
We hear from "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair, who says that Randy Orton will come out on top at Backlash.
We see a preview of Chapter 3 of "Undertaker: The Last Ride" on WWE Network.
We hear from Liv Morgan, who says her biggest stumbling block in life is her own self-worth, and says she has never felt "good enough." She has always wondered what life had in store for her, but she found what she was missing when she became a WWE Superstar. She does not know everything about life as life changes all the questions, but she is alive being the best person she can be and living her best life.
Next week: Aleister Black vs. Seth Rollins! Rey Mysterio's retirement ceremony!
Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat MVP and Bobby Lashley by disqualification after Lashley - who is not the legal man - refuses to listen to the referee's five count and let go of the full nelson on Montez Ford. After the match, Lashley continues to keep the hold on Ford, then McIntyre gets in the ring and brawls with Lashley, and the referee has to call for help from the Performance Center trainees in the crowd to separate both men. McIntyre beats up the two guys who get in the ring only to get Speared by Lashley. More Performance Center trainees show up to separate both men, and they are eventually able to keep them in separate corners to end the show.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
For the first time, members of NXT and the WWE Performance Center act as fans behind the barricade.
Kevin Owens starts tonight's show with The Kevin Owens Show. He announces he will face Angel Garza later tonight, then talks about tonight's Triple Threat Match, where the winner faces Asuka for the Raw Women's Championship at Backlash. Owens the introduces the Raw Women's Champion, Asuka. Asuka starts a "Becky" chant when she shows up. The topic then switches to Nia Jax's attack on both Asuka and Kairi Sane from last week. Asuka doesn't get a chance to say much when Charlotte Flair shows up. Charlotte tells Asuka that the Raw Women's Championship should have been handed to her, as every time they have faced off, Asuka has never beaten her. Suddenly, Natalya shows up. Natalya apologizes to Owens and his show's crew for her actions last week, but Charlotte interrupts and says that sucking up to Kevin Owens won't help her win tonight. As Charlotte jokingly apologizes to Asuka and said that she should have called Natalya "irrelevant," Nia Jax shows up and says everyone knows she will be the next champion and tells everyone to get ready. As Nia gets in the ring, Kevin Owens gets out, and Nia says what she did to Kairi Sane will be a taste of what she does to Asuka at Backlash. Owens leaves and tells Asuka not to hit Nia in the face. Asuka hits Nia in the face with a spinning backfist, starting a brawl. Asuka is quickly the only one left in the ring, yelling at Nia Jax at brawl's end.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Apollo Crews. Crews says tonight is the greatest night of his career, for he will beat Andrade and become WWE United States Champion.
Apollo Crews beats Andrade to become WWE United States Champion! During the match, Kayla Braxton interviews Angel Garza, who says a match is like making love, due to the eye contract, the moment between the two bodies coming together and what happens when they crash together. After the match, Charly Caruso interviews Apollo in the ring. Crews says that when he started, everyone told him he couldn't do it, but he never gave up, and after eleven years, he can say he won his first WWE title. He knows that people thought he blew his chance, but he continued to believe in himself and now he can tell the world that he is the new United States Champion. As Apollo Crews celebrates, Andrade is destroying things backstage.
Backstage, Seth Rollins stares at a purple Rey Mysterio mask.
Backstage, we hear from Seth Rollins, who says that tonight is a night of celebration as he is here and better than ever thanks to Rey Mysterio. He says that he was in a dark place after Money In The Bank until Rey presented himself in his time of need and allowed himself to be sacrificed for the greater good, and says he cannot imagine the pain that Rey and his family went through. Seth says he does not know what the future holds for Rey, but if that act was his final act as a WWE Superstar, then it was a courageous win, for it allowed him and his disciples to move into the future. Seth then introduces his newest disciple Austin Theory, and says that Theory and Murphy know what it is like to be cast aside and be overlooked. Murphy says he has faced many obstacles, but he needed a leader and he needed Rollins. Theory says that when he came to Raw, he thought he had friends, but when they abandoned him, Rollins found him, and he thanks him for that. Rollins says they are welcome and that the night is only beginning, for later on tonight, they will show Rey the goodness he has brought to Raw when they make examples out of Humberto Carrillo and Aleister Black.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Charlotte Flair. Charlotte says she is the most consistent and prolific women's champion in WWE history, and that she has raised the bar for the women's division and that nobody else compares. Asuka suddenly dances her way into the interview and tells Charlotte that red is not her color before dancing away.
The IIconics (Billie Kay and Peyton Royce) show up. Peyton Royce apologizes to Billie Kay for their loss last week, but Billie says she is the one to apologize for slapping her backstage, saying it made her sick to her stomach and that they have come so far, and that there should be no animosity. After mentioning that they have done so much together, and says they never had the opportunity to defend the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships. As they say that Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross have what is theirs, Alexa and Nikki show up. Alexa tells The IIconics had every opportunity, despite taking shortcuts and cheap shots to get them, and blew them all. When Nikki speaks, The IIconics tell her to shut up and look grateful. Nikki says that she has taken the same steps that Alexa has, having left Glasgow, Scotland with nothing, and when Alexa showed up, she gave her time and was there for her to keep her from bouncing off the walls. When Nikki says she cannot think of anything more IIconic than that, The IIconics attack Nikki and Alexa and lay them out before holding up the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
Backstage, MVP is met by Lana, who tells MVP "We need to talk." MVP says "No. We don't," then leaves.
In memory of Shad Gaspard, 1981 - 2020.
It's time for The VIP Lounge. After MVP gives a warm welcome to the Performance Center attendees, he says that The VIP Lounge will still be the only one to hold the star power of the "soon-to-be-former" WWE Champion, Drew McIntyre, whom he introduces to the ring. McIntyre tosses the couches in the ring around, then demands to know where Bobby Lashley is. MVP tells him not to worry about an ambush, saying "No contract, no contact" and that the physical aggression will be saved for the match. MVP then asks McIntyre to look back to when he offered him his services only to get Claymore Kicked, and says that after ending up on his back, he knew McIntyre would be champion and that he would play a role in him losing it. He says that after thirteen years, Lashley has a WWE Championship opportunity because of him, but McIntyre is not impressed, saying it took nineteen years to get his first opportunity, enter the main event of WrestleMania and beat Brock Lesnar in five minutes. He says Lashley will not be so lucky, and says that the things he said the last time he was in The VIP Lounge resonated perfectly. McIntyre says he does not need anyone to think or talk for him, or also kiss his ass. He says Lashley will not be so lucky, and says that the things he said the last time he was in The VIP Lounge resonated perfectly. McIntyre says he does not need anyone to think or talk for him, or also kiss his ass. After MVP introduces Lashley, he gets Claymore Kicked, and Lashley has to help MVP to the outside. MVP stops Lashley from getting into the ring as McIntyre demands Lashley fight him right now.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Natalya, who suddenly has to take a call. It is from her husband TJ aka Tyson Kidd, who is not happy with her after her apology to Kevin Owens. When she gets back to the interview, Charly Caruso says her interview time has run out.
Angel Garza attacks Kevin Owens as Owens makes his way to the ring for the next match, smashing Owens' left knee into the ramp.
Angel Garza beats Kevin Owens with the Wing Clipper after Owens' left knee gives out during the pop-up powerbomb. After the match, Garza kicks Owens in the back of his left knee.
In footage from earlier today, The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up for their game of golf with Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). Despite the rules of etiquette being mentioned, all etiquette gets thrown out the window and The Viking Raiders quickly get frustrated. Both teams get kicked off the golf course, and they both head to a miniature gold course. Not surprisingly, all logic and reason goes out the window, Street Profits win, and The Viking Raiders get the same treatment from a member of staff that they did from the police officer from the ax throwing competition. Street Profits lead two-to-one, then Ivar finds a wallet, a Solo cup and a turkey leg inside the last hole. Ivar tries to stop a gator from staring at him, but Street Profits hold him back.
Backstage, Lana apologizes to MVP and brings him a bag of ice, but MVP asks Lana if she thinks this is a joke and asys that Drew McIntyre sent a message to Bobby Lashley. MVP says they must send a message back, then gives the bag back to Lana. Lana is furious.
Seth Rollins talks to Austin Theory and Murphy backstage before the next match.
Austin Theory and Murphy beat Humberto Carrillo and Aleister Black. After the match, Theory and Murphy toss Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo, and Seth Rollins says that Humberto "needs to learn." Murphy and Theory then take Carrillo to the steel steps. Rollins also tells Aleister not to take another step or else Humberto will lose an eye. Rollins says that he knows Aleister and Carrillo are fighting for Rey Mysterio, but Rey was sacrificed, and that if they continue to fight, it will be for nothing. He then tells Aleister to put the chair down and take it out of the ring, which Aleister does. Murphy and Theory then let go of Carrillo and follow Rollins to the back.
Backstage, we hear from Edge, who says that Randy Orton caught him flat-footed as he congratulates Orton for laying the bait last week. He says that he doubts his ability, and during his over 3,000 days of retirement, Orton had over 1,000 matches. Edge says he must now prove himself to himself, and thanks Orton for making him contemplate things he either has not contemplated or buried very deeply. After contemplating whether to hang up the boots, he is still here. If Orton wants to doubt his wrestling ability, then he needs to look to whom he has faced through his career and every style he adapted to in order to pull people up to his level as a workhorse of the company. He then mentions that everything he has said has been in the past tense, for he does not know if he can do any of those things anymore, then says at Backlash, he will dig to the very depths of his soul to beat Orton.
Backstage, Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) meet. Once again, The Viking Raiders tell Street Profits that they let them win again. When given the choice to pick the next game for their competition, The Viking Raiders ask "Have you ever bowled?" before leaving. MVP then shows up with Bobby Lashley, saying that Street Profits are clowns who waste their talents golfing. After Street Profits make fun of MVP for getting a Claymore Kick and show how unimpressed they are with Lashley, MVP challenges them to a tag team match against him and Lashley tonight.
Asuka guests on commentary for the next match.
Nia Jax beats Natalya and Charlotte Flair in a Triple Threat Match to face Asuka for the WWE Raw Women's Championship at Backlash.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Drew McIntyre, who is about to leave when he says that he did mean to hit MVP with a Claymore Kick, but that he was asking for it. As for MVP and Bobby Lashley's tag team match tonight, McIntyre decides to stick around for it.
We look back on The Rock 'n Sock Connection (The Rock and Mankind), courtesy of Dairy Queen.
We hear from R-Truth, who says that he knows Rob Gronkowski is the WWE 24/7 Champion, and says that he is coming for him and will tackle any "football men" to get to Gronk before putting on shoulder pads. We then hear from Gronkowski, who tells "R-Lies" to bring it on before telling R-Truth that he is prepared to make sure the WWE 24/7 Championship stays with him and that he has eyes in the back of his head.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews MVP and Bobby Lashley. When asked why he is taking on Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) tonight, MVP points to Lashley and says "That's why."
We hear from "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair, who says that Randy Orton will come out on top at Backlash.
We see a preview of Chapter 3 of "Undertaker: The Last Ride" on WWE Network.
We hear from Liv Morgan, who says her biggest stumbling block in life is her own self-worth, and says she has never felt "good enough." She has always wondered what life had in store for her, but she found what she was missing when she became a WWE Superstar. She does not know everything about life as life changes all the questions, but she is alive being the best person she can be and living her best life.
Next week: Aleister Black vs. Seth Rollins! Rey Mysterio's retirement ceremony!
Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat MVP and Bobby Lashley by disqualification after Lashley - who is not the legal man - refuses to listen to the referee's five count and let go of the full nelson on Montez Ford. After the match, Lashley continues to keep the hold on Ford, then McIntyre gets in the ring and brawls with Lashley, and the referee has to call for help from the Performance Center trainees in the crowd to separate both men. McIntyre beats up the two guys who get in the ring only to get Speared by Lashley. More Performance Center trainees show up to separate both men, and they are eventually able to keep them in separate corners to end the show.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
Saturday, May 23, 2020
Honor Roll - Ring of Honor recap for May 23, 2020
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode focusing on Dragon Lee. Highlights and moments include:
Dragon Lee talking about his first match in ROH against Hiromu Takahashi aka Kamaitachi.
Dragon Lee vs. Hiromu Takahashi/Kamaitachi at All Star Extravaganza VIII
Dragon Lee talking about his IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship win at G1 Supercard
Bandido vs. Dragon Lee vs. Taiji Ishimori for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship at G1 Supercard
Dragon Lee talking about his match with Shane Taylor for the ROH World Television Championship at Final Battle 2019
Dragon Lee vs. Shane Taylor for the ROH World Televison Championship at Final Battle 2019
Dragon Lee thanks the fans for following his family's dynasty and Ring of Honor before promising that he will be back in action soon
Dragon Lee talking about his first match in ROH against Hiromu Takahashi aka Kamaitachi.
Dragon Lee vs. Hiromu Takahashi/Kamaitachi at All Star Extravaganza VIII
Dragon Lee talking about his IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship win at G1 Supercard
Bandido vs. Dragon Lee vs. Taiji Ishimori for the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship at G1 Supercard
Dragon Lee talking about his match with Shane Taylor for the ROH World Television Championship at Final Battle 2019
Dragon Lee vs. Shane Taylor for the ROH World Televison Championship at Final Battle 2019
Dragon Lee thanks the fans for following his family's dynasty and Ring of Honor before promising that he will be back in action soon
Double or Nothing 2020 - The Results
Tony Schiavone interviews Jake "The Snake" Roberts as Lance Archer pounds on a sledgehammer with a tire in an abandoned building. When Roberts is asked if Archer is ready for tonight, Archer smashes a toilet.
Best Friends (Chuck Taylor and Trent) beat Private Party (Marc Quen and Isiah Kassidy) during the Buy-In to become #1 contenders for the AEW World Tag Team Championships.
Backstage, Tony Schiavone interviews "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson, who says that toilets don't hit back and that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes does, and says that Mike Tyson could beat him and/or Jake "The Snake" Roberts out. He also says that Cody is the clear favorite to win the TNT Championship due to his inner qualities, and that Cody will start his own legacy when he wins the big one tonight.
AEW thanks all first responders for giving the power to persevere during the current world situation regarding COVID-19. Also, "Shad Gaspard 1981 - 2020" appears in front of a picture of the ocean on the shore of a beach.
We hear from some of the competitors in tonight's Casino Ladder Match. Joey Janela says that he is suddenly in the Casino Ladder Match due to Fenix suffering an injury on last week's Dynamite.
The Casino Ladder Match is won by Brian Cage, who makes his AEW debut in this match. Cage takes the poker chip off the hook above the ring after putting Darby Allin on top of a ladder and tossing both the ladder and Allin out of the ring at the behest of Taz, who accompanies him to the ring and acts as Cage's manager.
MJF beats Jungle Boy after raking Jungle Boy's eyes prior to a modified European clutch pin.
Before the next match, "Iron" Mike Tyson presents the AEW TNT Championship, and Lance Archer choke slams a random person in the ring. (The TNT Championship does not have gold plating, as the belt is not complete due to COVID-19.)
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Lance Archer to become the inaugural AEW TNT Champion! "Iron" Mike Tyson presents Cody with the championship. During the match, both Arn Anderson and Jake "The Snake" Roberts are ejected from ringside simultaneously, but after Roberts tries to come back with a snake in a bag, he is forced to retreat by "Iron" Mike Tyson, who threatens to beat Roberts up if he tries to interfere in the match.
It is announced that Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. has been injured as of last week's Dynamite. Dr. Michael Samson mentions that Baker has a few tears in her leg, but thankfully, the injuries are not serious.
Kris Statlander beats Penelope Ford. (Penelope Ford replaces Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. in this match.) Before the match, "Superbad" Kip Sabian has tape wrapped around himself and is on crutches following what happened to him in the Casino Ladder Match.
Before the next match, Shawn Spears says that all mediocre careers must come to an end, and as he says that "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes is "sitting at home, washing his tights" (an obvious reference to the 1989 Batman movie), Dustin Rhodes' music plays. Shawn pretends to be afraid, then slowly turns to the camera and smiles, saying he had everybody fooled before telling referee Aubrey Edwards to ring the bell and count Rhodes out. Edwards reluctantly starts the count, but Rhodes' entrance theme music plays again, and this time, Brandi Rhodes shows up. As Brandi distracts Spears from the middle of the ramp, Rhodes shows up from behind Spears and attacks him, starting the match.
"The Natural" Dustin Rhodes beats Shawn Spears. During the match, Spears' clothes are ripped off and he is down to his underwear, which has Tully Blanchard's face on the crotch.
All Out is live September 5th!
AEW pays tribute to Hana Kimura (1997 - 2020), who passed away last night at the age of 22. AEW asks that people be nicer to each other on social media.
Hikaru Shida beats "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose in a no-disqualification, no count-out match with a Kendo stick shot to the head followed by a running knee strike to become AEW Women's World Champion!
Jon Moxley retains the AEW World Championship - and gets it back - against Brodie Lee following a Paradigm Shift through the ramp, two more in the ring and a rear naked choke.
The AEW Unrivaled Collection of action figures is coming August 2020 from Jazwares!
The Elite (Nick Jackson, Matt Jackson, Kenny Omega, "Hangman" Adam Page, "Broken" Matt Hardy) beat The Inner Circle (Chris Jericho, Jake Hager, Santana, Ortiz, Sammy Guevara) in a Stadium Stampede Match. "Hangman" Adam Page shows up shortly after the beginning of the match on a horse and chases Guevara to the back of the stadium. When he cannot find him, Page heads to the bar. Hager ends up finding Page at the bar. After a drink, both men fight each other in the bar. Later on in the match, Santana and Ortiz throw Matt Hardy into a nearby pool, where - thanks to the water, which is apparently from the Lake of Reincarnation - Hardy transforms into Matt Hardy V1 (complete with a Matt Fact), Matt Hardy V2 and then back into "Broken" Matt Hardy. Also, Jacksonville Jaguars mascot Jackson De Ville gets a Judas Effect from Jericho, Jericho and referee Aubrey Edwards make a reference to instant replay in the NFL, Rick Knox gets superkicked after calling a foul for excessive celebration and un-sportsmanlike conduct for Alex Wright-style dancing, and Neo-1 - the successor to Vanguard-1 - shows up to spoil the fun for Sammy Guevara before Kenny Omega plants Guevara through a platform with One Winged Angel for the win. After the match, Omega gets the celebratory Gatorade bath.
Championship Gold - Championship Wrestling From Hollywood recap for May 23, 2020 (Non-PRO Shingle Edition)
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode covering the 2020 PP3 Cup Tournament. Highlights and matches include:
Lacey Ryan vs. Heather Monroe in Match 1 of their Best of Seven series, which must be won by a five-count
Ice Williams vs. Andy Brown in the quarterfinals of the PP3 Cup Tournament
Kathy Campanelli interviewing Adrian Quest, who suggests that certain people start watching their backs
Keita Murray vs. Steven Tresario vs. Mikey O'Shea
Kathy Campanelli interviewing The Wolf Zaddies (Che Cabrera and Bad Dude Tito), who are excited to be back in Championship Wrestling From Hollywood and dominate the tag team division, with Johnny Yuma meeting with Tito and inviting him back into Vermin
Frankie Frank vs. Ray Rosas in the quarterfinals of the PP3 Cup Tournament
Lacey Ryan vs. Heather Monroe in Match 1 of their Best of Seven series, which must be won by a five-count
Ice Williams vs. Andy Brown in the quarterfinals of the PP3 Cup Tournament
Kathy Campanelli interviewing Adrian Quest, who suggests that certain people start watching their backs
Keita Murray vs. Steven Tresario vs. Mikey O'Shea
Kathy Campanelli interviewing The Wolf Zaddies (Che Cabrera and Bad Dude Tito), who are excited to be back in Championship Wrestling From Hollywood and dominate the tag team division, with Johnny Yuma meeting with Tito and inviting him back into Vermin
Frankie Frank vs. Ray Rosas in the quarterfinals of the PP3 Cup Tournament
Championship Gold - Championship Wrestling presented by PRO Shingle recap for May 23, 2020
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode. Highlights and matches include:
MJF vs. Willie Mack at Coastline Clash 2019
Simone Sherie vs. Heather Monroe, July 13, 2019
Bateman vs. Royce Isaacs for the United Television Championship in a bullrope match from November 16, 2019
MJF vs. Willie Mack at Coastline Clash 2019
Simone Sherie vs. Heather Monroe, July 13, 2019
Bateman vs. Royce Isaacs for the United Television Championship in a bullrope match from November 16, 2019
Friday, May 22, 2020
Friday Night's Main Event - Main Event recap for May 22, 2020
Results courtesy of The Smackdown Hotel.
Jinder Mahal beats Akira Tozawa.
Ricochet beats Shane Thorne.
Jinder Mahal beats Akira Tozawa.
Ricochet beats Shane Thorne.
Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 22, 2020
WWE takes the time to recognize Memorial Day in the United States.
It's time for The Dirt Sheet to start tonight's show. The Miz and John Morrison state that Otis is a big buffoon due to the people around him, such as Braun Strowman, who suddenly got into their business. Miz says Strowman does not deserve the Universal Championship, and says that virtually anyone else - such as themselves - could have gotten it. After mentioning Bray Wyatt's Firefly Fun House puppets, we see some rejected puppets. One of them is "Mandyquin Rose," who whispers plans into Otis' ears to cost Braun Strowman the Universal Championship. Suddenly, Braun Strowman shows up. Strowman throws the two chairs Miz and Morrison were sitting in out of the ring, then admits that The Dirt Sheet isn't that half bad of a show before bringing up Bray Wyatt. Miz warns Strowman that Bray Wyatt will send him to his lowest point just like he did him, then says he had Morrison to back him up. When Morrison says that Miz will light Strowman up, Miz tries to stop him, but Strowman takes it as a challenge and accepts.
Braun Strowman beats The Miz. After the match, John Morrison challenges Strowman to a 2-on-1 handicap match for the WWE Universal Championship at Backlash. Strowman accepts without hesitation.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles beats Shinsuke Nakamura to advance to the semi-finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament.
Backstage, Bayley asks Sasha Banks to be in her corner because people think she cannot win without Sasha, and says there should be no reason for "the sheep" to believe that. Sasha understands and wishes Bayley good luck.
Bayley beats Charlotte Flair after using the middle rope for leverage.
Sonya Deville and Dolph Ziggler beat Mandy Rose and Otis. After the match, Ziggler superkicks Otis as Otis checks on Ziggler.
Backstage, we hear from Jeff Hardy, who says that he did not know where his journey would take him and that his positive vibrations have led him to the Intercontinental Championship Tournament. He holds the title dear to his heart due to the legends who have won it and due to the title being the first he won on his own, and tonight, his path to one more blaze of glory runs through Sheamus.
In memory of Shad Gaspard, 1981 - 2020.
We hear from The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). Steve Cutler says that they have had tough times adjusting to life back home and that they have had some dark times, but that is their blood on others' hands. He says that the only important thing is others' blood on their hands.
The Miz and John Morrison vs. Braun Strowman in a 2-on-1 handictp match for the Universal Championship is official for Backlash.
Backstage, Renee Young interviews The Miz and John Morrison, who are currently arguing over whether their challenge to Braun Strowman is a good idea. Miz and Morrison are confident that they can beat Braun Strowman.
Jeff Hardy beats Sheamus to advance to the semi-finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament after ducking the Brogue Kick and stacking Sheamus up on his shoulders.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
It's time for The Dirt Sheet to start tonight's show. The Miz and John Morrison state that Otis is a big buffoon due to the people around him, such as Braun Strowman, who suddenly got into their business. Miz says Strowman does not deserve the Universal Championship, and says that virtually anyone else - such as themselves - could have gotten it. After mentioning Bray Wyatt's Firefly Fun House puppets, we see some rejected puppets. One of them is "Mandyquin Rose," who whispers plans into Otis' ears to cost Braun Strowman the Universal Championship. Suddenly, Braun Strowman shows up. Strowman throws the two chairs Miz and Morrison were sitting in out of the ring, then admits that The Dirt Sheet isn't that half bad of a show before bringing up Bray Wyatt. Miz warns Strowman that Bray Wyatt will send him to his lowest point just like he did him, then says he had Morrison to back him up. When Morrison says that Miz will light Strowman up, Miz tries to stop him, but Strowman takes it as a challenge and accepts.
Braun Strowman beats The Miz. After the match, John Morrison challenges Strowman to a 2-on-1 handicap match for the WWE Universal Championship at Backlash. Strowman accepts without hesitation.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles beats Shinsuke Nakamura to advance to the semi-finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament.
Backstage, Bayley asks Sasha Banks to be in her corner because people think she cannot win without Sasha, and says there should be no reason for "the sheep" to believe that. Sasha understands and wishes Bayley good luck.
Bayley beats Charlotte Flair after using the middle rope for leverage.
Sonya Deville and Dolph Ziggler beat Mandy Rose and Otis. After the match, Ziggler superkicks Otis as Otis checks on Ziggler.
Backstage, we hear from Jeff Hardy, who says that he did not know where his journey would take him and that his positive vibrations have led him to the Intercontinental Championship Tournament. He holds the title dear to his heart due to the legends who have won it and due to the title being the first he won on his own, and tonight, his path to one more blaze of glory runs through Sheamus.
In memory of Shad Gaspard, 1981 - 2020.
We hear from The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). Steve Cutler says that they have had tough times adjusting to life back home and that they have had some dark times, but that is their blood on others' hands. He says that the only important thing is others' blood on their hands.
The Miz and John Morrison vs. Braun Strowman in a 2-on-1 handictp match for the Universal Championship is official for Backlash.
Backstage, Renee Young interviews The Miz and John Morrison, who are currently arguing over whether their challenge to Braun Strowman is a good idea. Miz and Morrison are confident that they can beat Braun Strowman.
Jeff Hardy beats Sheamus to advance to the semi-finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament after ducking the Brogue Kick and stacking Sheamus up on his shoulders.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
205:Alive - 205 Live recap for May 22, 2020
Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch beat Ever-Rise (Chase Parker and Matt Martel) by submission.
Isaiah "Swerve" Scott beats Tyler Breeze.
Isaiah "Swerve" Scott beats Tyler Breeze.
Thursday, May 21, 2020
Total Bellas Island - Total Bellas recap for May 21, 2020
Brie, Nikki and JJ head to a whiskey bar. Brie pulls up a quiz on her phone about what kind of neighbor Nikki could be, as Nikki is about to move into her new house near Brie's.
At Nikki's new house, things are being set up. At Brie and Bryan's house, everyone gets ready to see Nikki's new house. Nikki has a cat suit for Winston to make him look like a black cat to scare the ghosts away as part of a Russian tradition brought up by Artem, who is currently in Los Angeles. Winston is the first guest to enter Nikki's new house, which everyone loves. Nikki has now moved into her new house and is now Brie's next door neighbor, and feels more accomplished, powerful and independent now that she has her own home. When Brie looks around, though, she realizes it is not exactly toddler-friendly, and is afraid that Brie could escape her house, go into Nikki's and have an accident. JJ finds out that Artem never really brought up bringing a black cat into the house first after Nikki FaceTimes Artem.
Nikki goes to her OB/GYN with Kathy to see where her fertility is and to see if she can have a baby in the future. She finds out that she needs to freeze her eggs - and embryos - at 35 to ensure that she can have a child with Artem. Nikki is reluctant about the idea
Brie and Bryan go to a pool supply store to buy a pool fence for the pool at Nikki's house, and find out that it can get pretty expensive.
Brie calls Nikki about a pool fence, but Nikki shuts the idea down, not liking the idea of Brie trying to dictate things in her house. Nikki is suddenly interested when told there is a Louis Vuitton pool cover.
Artem and Nikki go grocery shopping. Nikki brings up the idea of freezing her eggs rather than freezing an embryo. Artem feels like he should have more of a say when it comes to having a child.
Brie and Nikki sign autographs at the Arizona Food and Wine Festival. Brie brings up trying to get a pool gate for Nikki with JJ and Lauren, but JJ wants Brie that Nikki is "messing with Brie's baby."
Later on in a wine store, Nikki brings up telling Artem that she is freezing her eggs to Brie, and mentions Artem being upset. As they talk, Brie feels that Nikki is afraid of commitment. Brie says she cannot handle having pressure in a relationship, since she feels she will shut down, and tells Nikki that she does not want total commitment right now, but Brie reminds Nikki that she makes Artem feel that they will be married.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie brings over a pool safety sign for the pool. Nikki is reluctant to the idea, and tosses the signs over the fence between their houses.
Artem meets Brie for some coffee. Artem says she is surprised that Nikki is freezing her eggs, and that he feels they are in different places in their relationship. He says that he wants to have kids, but that Nikki does not feel that way. He eventually says that he wants to marry Nikki eventually. Brie realizes that Nikki is terrified and that Artem is taking their relationship seriously.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie contacts Nikki via walkie talkie, and apologizes for trying to force a pool gate or a pool sign on her. Nikki says she will have a pool gate and a cover for the pool.
At Nikki's house, Artem is cooking eggs. Nikki continues their conversation about her freezing her eggs from the grocery store, and admits that she does not want to feel pressured into anything in their relationship. Artem tells Nikki not to be worried about such a thing. Nikki also asks Artem to move in with her full-time, which Artem is on board with.
Brie and Artem go ring shopping, and Artem is surprised by how expensive rings can be. Artem looks forward to being in a long-term relationship with Nikki.
At Nikki's new house, things are being set up. At Brie and Bryan's house, everyone gets ready to see Nikki's new house. Nikki has a cat suit for Winston to make him look like a black cat to scare the ghosts away as part of a Russian tradition brought up by Artem, who is currently in Los Angeles. Winston is the first guest to enter Nikki's new house, which everyone loves. Nikki has now moved into her new house and is now Brie's next door neighbor, and feels more accomplished, powerful and independent now that she has her own home. When Brie looks around, though, she realizes it is not exactly toddler-friendly, and is afraid that Brie could escape her house, go into Nikki's and have an accident. JJ finds out that Artem never really brought up bringing a black cat into the house first after Nikki FaceTimes Artem.
Nikki goes to her OB/GYN with Kathy to see where her fertility is and to see if she can have a baby in the future. She finds out that she needs to freeze her eggs - and embryos - at 35 to ensure that she can have a child with Artem. Nikki is reluctant about the idea
Brie and Bryan go to a pool supply store to buy a pool fence for the pool at Nikki's house, and find out that it can get pretty expensive.
Brie calls Nikki about a pool fence, but Nikki shuts the idea down, not liking the idea of Brie trying to dictate things in her house. Nikki is suddenly interested when told there is a Louis Vuitton pool cover.
Artem and Nikki go grocery shopping. Nikki brings up the idea of freezing her eggs rather than freezing an embryo. Artem feels like he should have more of a say when it comes to having a child.
Brie and Nikki sign autographs at the Arizona Food and Wine Festival. Brie brings up trying to get a pool gate for Nikki with JJ and Lauren, but JJ wants Brie that Nikki is "messing with Brie's baby."
Later on in a wine store, Nikki brings up telling Artem that she is freezing her eggs to Brie, and mentions Artem being upset. As they talk, Brie feels that Nikki is afraid of commitment. Brie says she cannot handle having pressure in a relationship, since she feels she will shut down, and tells Nikki that she does not want total commitment right now, but Brie reminds Nikki that she makes Artem feel that they will be married.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie brings over a pool safety sign for the pool. Nikki is reluctant to the idea, and tosses the signs over the fence between their houses.
Artem meets Brie for some coffee. Artem says she is surprised that Nikki is freezing her eggs, and that he feels they are in different places in their relationship. He says that he wants to have kids, but that Nikki does not feel that way. He eventually says that he wants to marry Nikki eventually. Brie realizes that Nikki is terrified and that Artem is taking their relationship seriously.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie contacts Nikki via walkie talkie, and apologizes for trying to force a pool gate or a pool sign on her. Nikki says she will have a pool gate and a cover for the pool.
At Nikki's house, Artem is cooking eggs. Nikki continues their conversation about her freezing her eggs from the grocery store, and admits that she does not want to feel pressured into anything in their relationship. Artem tells Nikki not to be worried about such a thing. Nikki also asks Artem to move in with her full-time, which Artem is on board with.
Brie and Artem go ring shopping, and Artem is surprised by how expensive rings can be. Artem looks forward to being in a long-term relationship with Nikki.
Generation NXT UK - NXT UK recap for May 21, 2020
This week's episode looks back on the road to Toni Storm vs. Piper Niven vs. Kay Lee Ray for the NXT UK Women's Championship at NXT UK TakeOver: Blackpool II. Highlights and matches include:
Jinny vs. Toni Storm for the NXT UK Women's Championship, April 12, 2019
The debut of Piper Niven.
Piper Niven vs. Rhea Ripley, July 3, 2019
Kay Lee Ray winning the battle royal to decide a #1 contender to the NXT UK Women's Championship
Next week: Four more hidden gems are unearthed!
Piper Niven talking about her friendship with Kay Lee Rya and Toni Storm on NXT UK TakeOver II: Prime Target
Toni Storm vs. Piper Niven vs. Kay Lee Ray for the NXT UK Women's Championship at NXT UK TakeOver: Blackpool II
Jinny vs. Toni Storm for the NXT UK Women's Championship, April 12, 2019
The debut of Piper Niven.
Piper Niven vs. Rhea Ripley, July 3, 2019
Kay Lee Ray winning the battle royal to decide a #1 contender to the NXT UK Women's Championship
Next week: Four more hidden gems are unearthed!
Piper Niven talking about her friendship with Kay Lee Rya and Toni Storm on NXT UK TakeOver II: Prime Target
Toni Storm vs. Piper Niven vs. Kay Lee Ray for the NXT UK Women's Championship at NXT UK TakeOver: Blackpool II
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Generation NXT - NXT recap for May 20, 2020
In memory of Shad Gaspard, 1981 - 2020.
Karrion Kross quickly beats an unnamed opponent (who is Liam Gray, who is not even mentioned by name in this match) with the Kross Jacket. After the match, Tommaso Ciampa shows up and formally introduces himself to Karrion Kross, and says that Kross knows NXT is his home and that he attacked him to make a point. Ciampa says that part of him respects that, given the kind of guy that Kross is, and says that Kross stands out in a locker room consisting of the absolute best. He says that Kross is special, but so is he, and he had to look him in the eye and tell him that at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, they will face off in the ring. After welcoming Kross to the main event, Ciampa drops the microphone and leaves.
El Hijo del Fantasma beats Akira Tozawa in Group B of the Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. After the match, Fantasma and Tozawa are both now at 2-1.
We hear from Timothy Thatcher, who says that he escaped the Matt Riddle circus and enjoyed dishing out pain to him. He then says he wants a rematch, and this time, the winner will be decided by knockout or submission. He tells Riddle to pick the place, as he is ready.
We hear from Shotzi Blackheart, whose mission is taking care of business. We also see her on top of an Abrams tank with a 105mm Howitzer she calls "The Dirty Blonde." She also talks about how her grandfather got her into motorcycles and punk rock. She then commandeers the tank as she warns Dakota Kai, Raquel Gonzalez and the rest of the NXT Women's Championship that they can't handle her and that they will get crushed like the car she runs over in the tank.
Mia Yim beats Santana Garrett. After the match, Johnny Gargano and Candace LeRae show up, with Gargano mocking Mia Yim's entrance theme in the process before LeRae makes fun of Mia Yim for losing to Charlotte Flair because she was "pandering to the fans." Candace LeRae says it is a tragedy that she cannot face Mia Yim for the NXT Women's Championship, then Gargano and Candace try to make an example out of Mia Yim. When LeRae knocks Mia into the ropes, Gargano pulls the rope down. Mia Yim falls out of the ring, but she is soon joined by Keith Lee, and together, Keith Lee and Mia Yim force Gargano and LeRae to retreat.
We hear from Cameron Grimes, who brags about his win against Finn Balor. He says he used to look up to him, but after a Cave-In, Balor was looking up at him, and regardless of what people think, it is "Grime Time."
Backstage, Drake Maverick says that tonight, he is going into the ring with one of the best wrestlers in the world, and that he is tired of second-guessing himself as he says that he has to go out there and win.
Roderick Strong beats Dexter Lumis with a roll-up as Lumis tries to kick out of a Strong Hold attempt. Before the next match, Adam Cole promises a championship celebration next week to commemorate one year of himself being NXT Champion. After the match, Lumis puts Strong in a straitjacket hold, and when Bobby Fish and Adam Cole run in, they cannot break the hold. Velveteen Dream shows up and attacks Fish and Cole and hits a nasty dive off the top rope onto Cole on the outside. Lumis is in a trance stroking Strong's hair afterwards.
Backstage, Akira Tozawa and El Hijo del Fantasma show good sportsmanship in the parking lot, then two masked luchadors show up and attack Tozawa. They run away when Fantasma gets out of his car.
Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch beat Ever-Rise (Chase Parker and Matt Martel) by submission.
Backstage, Keith Lee says he does not care what Johnny Gargano and Candace LeRae say about what he says or does, but their antics will reach their limit at NXT TakeOver: In Your House.
Backstage, Matt Riddle talks about how he beat Timothy Thatcher last week and calls Thatcher "a putz" for his actions afterwards. As for Thatcher's challenge, he wants that match in a cage.
Drake Maverick beats KUSHIDA in Group A of the Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament after countering a Hoverboard lock into a pinfall attempt after forcing KUSHIDA's shoulders to the mat. During the match, Jake Atlas watches the match from behind the barricade in support of Maverick. After the match, KUSHIDA and Maverick are both 2-1 in Group A, forcing a three-way tie with Jake Atlas. Byron Saxton shows up and announces that as per General Manager William Regal, all three men will face each other in a Triple Threat Match where the winner goes to the finals.
Next week: Matt Riddle vs. Timothy Thatcher in a cage fight!
We hear from Damian Priest, who says that the key to infamy is multiple targets. He says that the championships will come, but Finn Balor is a potential target turned opportunity, and due to his putting NXT on the match, he will go after him at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. He says that Balor's name will turn to ash while his will live forever.
Io Shirai beats Rhea Ripley by disqualification after Charlotte Flair hits her with a big boot. During the match, Charlotte Flair shows up, and Shirai sends Ripley into Charlotte with a head scissors. After the match, Charlotte hits Rhea Ripley with a Spear to end the show.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
Karrion Kross quickly beats an unnamed opponent (who is Liam Gray, who is not even mentioned by name in this match) with the Kross Jacket. After the match, Tommaso Ciampa shows up and formally introduces himself to Karrion Kross, and says that Kross knows NXT is his home and that he attacked him to make a point. Ciampa says that part of him respects that, given the kind of guy that Kross is, and says that Kross stands out in a locker room consisting of the absolute best. He says that Kross is special, but so is he, and he had to look him in the eye and tell him that at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, they will face off in the ring. After welcoming Kross to the main event, Ciampa drops the microphone and leaves.
El Hijo del Fantasma beats Akira Tozawa in Group B of the Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. After the match, Fantasma and Tozawa are both now at 2-1.
We hear from Timothy Thatcher, who says that he escaped the Matt Riddle circus and enjoyed dishing out pain to him. He then says he wants a rematch, and this time, the winner will be decided by knockout or submission. He tells Riddle to pick the place, as he is ready.
We hear from Shotzi Blackheart, whose mission is taking care of business. We also see her on top of an Abrams tank with a 105mm Howitzer she calls "The Dirty Blonde." She also talks about how her grandfather got her into motorcycles and punk rock. She then commandeers the tank as she warns Dakota Kai, Raquel Gonzalez and the rest of the NXT Women's Championship that they can't handle her and that they will get crushed like the car she runs over in the tank.
Mia Yim beats Santana Garrett. After the match, Johnny Gargano and Candace LeRae show up, with Gargano mocking Mia Yim's entrance theme in the process before LeRae makes fun of Mia Yim for losing to Charlotte Flair because she was "pandering to the fans." Candace LeRae says it is a tragedy that she cannot face Mia Yim for the NXT Women's Championship, then Gargano and Candace try to make an example out of Mia Yim. When LeRae knocks Mia into the ropes, Gargano pulls the rope down. Mia Yim falls out of the ring, but she is soon joined by Keith Lee, and together, Keith Lee and Mia Yim force Gargano and LeRae to retreat.
We hear from Cameron Grimes, who brags about his win against Finn Balor. He says he used to look up to him, but after a Cave-In, Balor was looking up at him, and regardless of what people think, it is "Grime Time."
Backstage, Drake Maverick says that tonight, he is going into the ring with one of the best wrestlers in the world, and that he is tired of second-guessing himself as he says that he has to go out there and win.
Roderick Strong beats Dexter Lumis with a roll-up as Lumis tries to kick out of a Strong Hold attempt. Before the next match, Adam Cole promises a championship celebration next week to commemorate one year of himself being NXT Champion. After the match, Lumis puts Strong in a straitjacket hold, and when Bobby Fish and Adam Cole run in, they cannot break the hold. Velveteen Dream shows up and attacks Fish and Cole and hits a nasty dive off the top rope onto Cole on the outside. Lumis is in a trance stroking Strong's hair afterwards.
Backstage, Akira Tozawa and El Hijo del Fantasma show good sportsmanship in the parking lot, then two masked luchadors show up and attack Tozawa. They run away when Fantasma gets out of his car.
Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch beat Ever-Rise (Chase Parker and Matt Martel) by submission.
Backstage, Keith Lee says he does not care what Johnny Gargano and Candace LeRae say about what he says or does, but their antics will reach their limit at NXT TakeOver: In Your House.
Backstage, Matt Riddle talks about how he beat Timothy Thatcher last week and calls Thatcher "a putz" for his actions afterwards. As for Thatcher's challenge, he wants that match in a cage.
Drake Maverick beats KUSHIDA in Group A of the Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament after countering a Hoverboard lock into a pinfall attempt after forcing KUSHIDA's shoulders to the mat. During the match, Jake Atlas watches the match from behind the barricade in support of Maverick. After the match, KUSHIDA and Maverick are both 2-1 in Group A, forcing a three-way tie with Jake Atlas. Byron Saxton shows up and announces that as per General Manager William Regal, all three men will face each other in a Triple Threat Match where the winner goes to the finals.
Next week: Matt Riddle vs. Timothy Thatcher in a cage fight!
We hear from Damian Priest, who says that the key to infamy is multiple targets. He says that the championships will come, but Finn Balor is a potential target turned opportunity, and due to his putting NXT on the match, he will go after him at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. He says that Balor's name will turn to ash while his will live forever.
Io Shirai beats Rhea Ripley by disqualification after Charlotte Flair hits her with a big boot. During the match, Charlotte Flair shows up, and Shirai sends Ripley into Charlotte with a head scissors. After the match, Charlotte hits Rhea Ripley with a Spear to end the show.
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
Those Dynamite Kids - Dynamite recap for May 20, 2020
The show starts with The Inner Circle coming out of a black limousine and being interviewed by Alex Marvez. Chris Jericho says that if you thought what they did to Vanguard-1 was bad, what they will do to The Elite will be even worse.
Before the next match, Brodie Lee addresses the fans at home after asking 10 to take a proper knee, saying that he does relate to the fans, as he sweats and put his pants on the same way they do. He says that it may be hard to fathom, but he is a man, not a god, who has come into possession with a "very, very special piece." He then says that that the difference between the Dark Order of then and the Dark Order of now is that he operates at a higher, elite level and that the Dark Order of now are "the lions of AEW," and that the results speak for themselves. He says that come Saturday, he has to win not only to satisfy his hunger and desire, but to pay off the loyalty and love of his men in the Dark Order. Brodie Lee then tells 10 that he knew that he was special, and that now is his time to shine. He calls him "a high knight of the Dark Order," then orders him to rise and hurt Jon Moxley for him.
Jon Moxley beats 10. After the match, Moxley rips off 10's left elbow pad, puts 10's left arm through a steel chair, then admits while he does not understand the message behind Brodie Lee stealing the AEW World Championship, he sees it as a punk-out and he will give Brodie Lee ten seconds to come out and correct his mistake before he breaks 10's arm. Brodie Lee shows up on the video screen, telling Moxley he has made his bed and that he will put him to sleep on Saturday. He says that all Moxley had to do was ask to have it back, and that Moxley has made it personal. He says that in these times, everybody has to make sacrifice, then says he is leaving with the Dark Order, sacrificing 10 in the process. Moxley says he will see Brodie Lee on Saturday, then smacks the steel chair wrapped around 10's arm with another steel chair.
MJF beats Marko Stunt with The Salt of the Earth. After the match, MJF congratulates Marko Stunt for lasting much longer than he thought they would, then proposes letting one of his rats kiss him before saying that nobody in the world would ever touch Marko's lips. Wardlow then picks Marko up so that Marko can kiss the Dynamite diamond ring, and MJF punches Marko in the face, knocking him down. Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus then run into the ring and chase MJF and Wardlow out.
Jake Roberts and Arn Anderson - the latter of whom has not been seen in months - set down at a table for a face-to-face meeting moderated by Tony Schiavone. Roberts says it is surreal to sit across the table from Anderson, as they have crossed paths through the years but never in the ring. He is also not used to seeing Anderson show up alone, either. He says that people have dreams and nightmares, and while those are not real, Lance Archer is and he has destroyed everyone put in front of him. He says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes has "wormed his way around" to stay away from Archer, but he will have to come face-to-face with the truth that Archer is a "mean son-of-a-bitch who will rip his damn heart out." He then makes fun of the fact that Anderson has not been seen in months. Anderson says that Roberts almost made him believe him, and ponders what would have happened if they got in the ring years ago, and says they are so credible that if they told someone a pissant could pull a freight train, they would hook it up. He says that he can feel the evil in him that used to frighten people permeate from across the table, and he knew way back when that what is in his heart is what should be worried about. Roberts says he has been to Hell and back and that one more trip with him wouldn't be so bad. Anderson mentions "Iron" Mike Tyson is going to not only present the AEW TNT Championship, but that he may have free reign around the arena and questions if Robert will throw Archer at Tyson. Roberts says that whatever he throws at Tyson will knock him down, and that Archer is willing to knock Tyson out for fun and that he can do it. He then says that he expected Brandi Rhodes to present the title, and says he wouldn't mind running into her again. Anderson says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes has to win the TNT Championship, not because he is a member of the Rhodes family, but because he has turned the wrestling world on its head in a year's time and made it what it is now, and that his leadership is being recognized and he has earned it. He also warns Roberts that he is "a vicious prick," and that he has one more tidbit of information. He tells Roberts that he had better be limber from his DDP Yoga when he plants him into the mat with a spinebuster and stick his head where the sun doesn't shine. Roberts overturns the table and wants to brawl with Anderson, but referees get between them and Roberts eventually leaves.
We see a black-and-white video package of Darby Allin climbing a ladder and playing poker with other people wearing masks that look like the faces of other AEW wrestlers.
We hear from PAC, who says that nobody is safe in these times. He says that while he has been forced to stay home and weather the storm, he no longer has to walk this path, and says that tonight is the night that Orange Cassidy will get over himself when Rey Fenix kicks his head off and sends him to his maker.
Rey Fenix beats Orange Cassidy. During the match, "Superbad" Kip Sabian shows up with a ladder, places it on the ramp, and climbs up to the top of the ladder to sit down and watch the match. This distracts Orange Cassidy and allows Fenix to hit a low blow behind the referee's back to get the win. After the match, Sabian flips Cassidy off, then Frankie Kazarian and Scorpio Sky show up, test Sabian's adder for balance, then push the ladder down and topple Sabian off before fighting both Sabian and Jimmy Havoc, who has also shown up. Fenix then takes everyone else out on the outside, then Colt Cabana shows up and hits everyone with an Asai moonsault. Chuck Taylor and Trent then show up and check on Orange Cassidy before heling him take out everyone on the outside with an assisted Swanton Bomb. Cassidy then gives the thumbs up from the bottom of the ladder.
Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. and "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose beat Kris Statlander and Hikaru Shida. After the match, Nyla Rose pulls a table out form underneath the ring, sets it up, places Shida on top of it and goes up top. Statlander stops Nyla, and Shida gets off the table and goes up top to put Nyla through the table with a superplex.
Backstage, Alex Marvez interviews Jon Moxley, who says that in sports, business and life, everything is a reduction to violence, and that it only gets worse from here. He knows it will get very bad on Saturday when he hits Brodie Lee with a Paradigm Shift, and when Lee wakes up, he will have lost the match and the power he thinks he has, and all he will have is a three-piece suit and a bunch of guys in masks to repair his shattered ego.
Shawn Spears hosts "Shawn Spears News," and reports that "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes has decided to retire from professional wrestling at the behest of family and friends. He then congratulates "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for his actions, then says that retirement was not an easy pill for Dustin to swallow. He then says that swallowing pills wasn't all that hard for Dustin twelve years ago. Spears then asks why he does not have a match at Double or Nothing and asks himself who he has to piss off to get a match, and quickly realizes that he challenge Dustin to a match at Double or Nothing before joking that one can find Dustin at their local museum. The match is quickly made official.
Next week: a battle royal where the winner faces the AEW TNT Champion!
Matt Hardy beats Sammy Guevara. After the match, Chris Jericho appears on the video screen with The Inner Circle, who are tossing water on Kenny Omega and holding him down in front of a football goal post. Jericho then hits Omega with a baseball bat as Matt Hardy heads towards the stadium, then The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) show up and lay waste to The Inner Circle. This does not last long, and The Inner Circle turns the tables until the sudden reappearance of "Hangman" Adam Page, who runs across the stadium and hammers members of The Inner Circle, allowing The Young Bucks to get back into the fight. Matt Hardy shows up just in time for The Inner Circle to retreat.
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
Before the next match, Brodie Lee addresses the fans at home after asking 10 to take a proper knee, saying that he does relate to the fans, as he sweats and put his pants on the same way they do. He says that it may be hard to fathom, but he is a man, not a god, who has come into possession with a "very, very special piece." He then says that that the difference between the Dark Order of then and the Dark Order of now is that he operates at a higher, elite level and that the Dark Order of now are "the lions of AEW," and that the results speak for themselves. He says that come Saturday, he has to win not only to satisfy his hunger and desire, but to pay off the loyalty and love of his men in the Dark Order. Brodie Lee then tells 10 that he knew that he was special, and that now is his time to shine. He calls him "a high knight of the Dark Order," then orders him to rise and hurt Jon Moxley for him.
Jon Moxley beats 10. After the match, Moxley rips off 10's left elbow pad, puts 10's left arm through a steel chair, then admits while he does not understand the message behind Brodie Lee stealing the AEW World Championship, he sees it as a punk-out and he will give Brodie Lee ten seconds to come out and correct his mistake before he breaks 10's arm. Brodie Lee shows up on the video screen, telling Moxley he has made his bed and that he will put him to sleep on Saturday. He says that all Moxley had to do was ask to have it back, and that Moxley has made it personal. He says that in these times, everybody has to make sacrifice, then says he is leaving with the Dark Order, sacrificing 10 in the process. Moxley says he will see Brodie Lee on Saturday, then smacks the steel chair wrapped around 10's arm with another steel chair.
MJF beats Marko Stunt with The Salt of the Earth. After the match, MJF congratulates Marko Stunt for lasting much longer than he thought they would, then proposes letting one of his rats kiss him before saying that nobody in the world would ever touch Marko's lips. Wardlow then picks Marko up so that Marko can kiss the Dynamite diamond ring, and MJF punches Marko in the face, knocking him down. Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus then run into the ring and chase MJF and Wardlow out.
Jake Roberts and Arn Anderson - the latter of whom has not been seen in months - set down at a table for a face-to-face meeting moderated by Tony Schiavone. Roberts says it is surreal to sit across the table from Anderson, as they have crossed paths through the years but never in the ring. He is also not used to seeing Anderson show up alone, either. He says that people have dreams and nightmares, and while those are not real, Lance Archer is and he has destroyed everyone put in front of him. He says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes has "wormed his way around" to stay away from Archer, but he will have to come face-to-face with the truth that Archer is a "mean son-of-a-bitch who will rip his damn heart out." He then makes fun of the fact that Anderson has not been seen in months. Anderson says that Roberts almost made him believe him, and ponders what would have happened if they got in the ring years ago, and says they are so credible that if they told someone a pissant could pull a freight train, they would hook it up. He says that he can feel the evil in him that used to frighten people permeate from across the table, and he knew way back when that what is in his heart is what should be worried about. Roberts says he has been to Hell and back and that one more trip with him wouldn't be so bad. Anderson mentions "Iron" Mike Tyson is going to not only present the AEW TNT Championship, but that he may have free reign around the arena and questions if Robert will throw Archer at Tyson. Roberts says that whatever he throws at Tyson will knock him down, and that Archer is willing to knock Tyson out for fun and that he can do it. He then says that he expected Brandi Rhodes to present the title, and says he wouldn't mind running into her again. Anderson says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes has to win the TNT Championship, not because he is a member of the Rhodes family, but because he has turned the wrestling world on its head in a year's time and made it what it is now, and that his leadership is being recognized and he has earned it. He also warns Roberts that he is "a vicious prick," and that he has one more tidbit of information. He tells Roberts that he had better be limber from his DDP Yoga when he plants him into the mat with a spinebuster and stick his head where the sun doesn't shine. Roberts overturns the table and wants to brawl with Anderson, but referees get between them and Roberts eventually leaves.
We see a black-and-white video package of Darby Allin climbing a ladder and playing poker with other people wearing masks that look like the faces of other AEW wrestlers.
We hear from PAC, who says that nobody is safe in these times. He says that while he has been forced to stay home and weather the storm, he no longer has to walk this path, and says that tonight is the night that Orange Cassidy will get over himself when Rey Fenix kicks his head off and sends him to his maker.
Rey Fenix beats Orange Cassidy. During the match, "Superbad" Kip Sabian shows up with a ladder, places it on the ramp, and climbs up to the top of the ladder to sit down and watch the match. This distracts Orange Cassidy and allows Fenix to hit a low blow behind the referee's back to get the win. After the match, Sabian flips Cassidy off, then Frankie Kazarian and Scorpio Sky show up, test Sabian's adder for balance, then push the ladder down and topple Sabian off before fighting both Sabian and Jimmy Havoc, who has also shown up. Fenix then takes everyone else out on the outside, then Colt Cabana shows up and hits everyone with an Asai moonsault. Chuck Taylor and Trent then show up and check on Orange Cassidy before heling him take out everyone on the outside with an assisted Swanton Bomb. Cassidy then gives the thumbs up from the bottom of the ladder.
Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. and "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose beat Kris Statlander and Hikaru Shida. After the match, Nyla Rose pulls a table out form underneath the ring, sets it up, places Shida on top of it and goes up top. Statlander stops Nyla, and Shida gets off the table and goes up top to put Nyla through the table with a superplex.
Backstage, Alex Marvez interviews Jon Moxley, who says that in sports, business and life, everything is a reduction to violence, and that it only gets worse from here. He knows it will get very bad on Saturday when he hits Brodie Lee with a Paradigm Shift, and when Lee wakes up, he will have lost the match and the power he thinks he has, and all he will have is a three-piece suit and a bunch of guys in masks to repair his shattered ego.
Shawn Spears hosts "Shawn Spears News," and reports that "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes has decided to retire from professional wrestling at the behest of family and friends. He then congratulates "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for his actions, then says that retirement was not an easy pill for Dustin to swallow. He then says that swallowing pills wasn't all that hard for Dustin twelve years ago. Spears then asks why he does not have a match at Double or Nothing and asks himself who he has to piss off to get a match, and quickly realizes that he challenge Dustin to a match at Double or Nothing before joking that one can find Dustin at their local museum. The match is quickly made official.
Next week: a battle royal where the winner faces the AEW TNT Champion!
Matt Hardy beats Sammy Guevara. After the match, Chris Jericho appears on the video screen with The Inner Circle, who are tossing water on Kenny Omega and holding him down in front of a football goal post. Jericho then hits Omega with a baseball bat as Matt Hardy heads towards the stadium, then The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) show up and lay waste to The Inner Circle. This does not last long, and The Inner Circle turns the tables until the sudden reappearance of "Hangman" Adam Page, who runs across the stadium and hammers members of The Inner Circle, allowing The Young Bucks to get back into the fight. Matt Hardy shows up just in time for The Inner Circle to retreat.
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
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