Recapping American wrestling since 2013. Not only following the current stuff in WWE, Impact and ROH but also going back in time and doing stuff from back then as well.
Backstage, "The Librarian" Peter Avalon and Brandon Cutler argue with each other when someone tells them that they are together in a tag team match tonight. As Avalon and Cutler argue over who will cost them them match, The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) show up, tell them that they are facing them tonight, and they will teach them some tag team psychology and that one of them would never turn on the other. Cutler tells them that they have done that before, having known them for a long time. The Young Bucks leave after saying that happened "a generation ago," then Avalon says it was true because he read their new book Young Bucks: Killing The Business - From Backyards to the Big Leagues, even though the book does not come out until November. After some more humorous banter between Avalon and Cutler, both men leave, with "The Librarian" Leva Bates looking forward to tonight's tag team match.
Shawn Spears beats Max Caster. After the match, Tully Blanchard hands Spears a steel slug, then Spears hits Caster with a loaded glove.
Lance Archer beats Pineapple Pete. During the match, Archer attacks Pineapple Pete before the bell rings and agitates "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela. After the match, Archer is about to attack Pineapple Pete again when Janela rushes at Archer with a leaf blower.
Ricky Starks beats Griff Garrison.
Scorpio Sky beats Brady Pierce.
Brandi Rhodes and Allie beat KiLynn King and Skyler Moore. Before the match, Allie and Brandi are introduced as "The Nightmare Sisters," but Brandi corrects ring announcer Justin Roberts, stating that is not correct as they are not related. At the end of the match, Allie does her best impression of "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes before allowing Brandi to get in and get the win.
The Butcher and The Blade beat Low Ride and Fuego del Sol.
The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) beat "The Librarian" Peter Avalon and Brandon Cutler.
It is announced that the Impact World Championship is now vacant and that there will be a new World Champion at Slammiversary. The match for the title at Slammiversary will be Ace Austin vs. Eddie Edwards vs. Trey Miguel vs. a mystery opponent. (Tessa Blanchard has been fired and stripped of the Impact World Championship due to not cutting promos for a "via satellite" interview while still quarantined in Mexico, and Michael Elgin has been suspended and later fired from Impact Wrestling due to previous sexual assault allegations resurfacing.)
Chris Bey beats Suicide after Johnny Swinger tosses Suicide off the top rope.
Backstage, Moose says his match is big because he is in it, and that Crazzy Steve does not take anything seriously. He says fun and games did not get him where he is now, make him a champion or get him through seven years in the NFL. Moose says that tonight, Crazzy Steve will find out why he is a five-star athlete, a world champion and the legend known as Moose.
Backstage, Johnny Swinger congratulates Chris Bey on his victory and says that his strategies will get them around the referees and buy them off. Suddenly, the referee from Chris Bey's match shows up and says that Bey's match against Willie Mack for the X Division Championship at Slammiversary will be called right down the middle and that Swinger is banned from ringside.
TJP and Fallah Bahh beat Reno Scum (Adam Thornstowe and Luster the Legend).
It's time for Locker Room Talk. Tonight's guest is John E. Bravo. Johnny Swinger complains about being banned from ringside at Slammiversary, then Bravo shows up. Bravo refuse to hint that he may have a potential relationship with Rosemary, then Madison Rayne brings out Rosemary, who teleports into the room. Rosemary admits she is new to "understanding mortals," but it is obvious that there is a thing between John E. Bravo and Rosemary. Swinger says Rosemary is into her, but Bravo tells him that Rosemary is not interested in him, and this starts an argument. As Madison asks John E. Bravo if he is in love with Rosemary, Taya Valkyrie shows up and asks Rosemary to be her tag team partner. Rosemary accepts, then she and Taya leave.
The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) show up. Josh Alexander says that all good things to an end when it comes to fights one does not back down from, as Ken Shamrock was attacked before he made it to the ring last week. Ethan Page says Shamrock will never have a friend or tag team partner because he is crazy and has rage issues, and that nobody will deal with them because of them. He says having a friend makes someone dangerous. Suddenly, Shamrock shows up. Before Shamrock gets in the ring, Sami Callihan shows up on the video screen and asks "Who needs friends when you've got an enemy?" The arena goes dark, and when the lights come back on, Sami is in the ring. Callihan and Shamrock easily overpower The North, then Callihan and Shamrock have a staredown before Callihan makes the arena dark and disappears before the lights come back on.
Backstage, The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page and "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) meets with Scott D'Amore regarding being attacked by Ken Shamrock and Sami Callihan. D'Amore puts them in a match against Callihan and Shamrock with the Impact World Tag Team Championship on the line at Slammiversary.
The Impact Plus Flashback Moment of the Week is Eric Young vs. Magnus for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship from April 10, 2014.
Backstage, Jimmy Jacobs interviews Trey Miguel, who says he does not care if he has to break Ace Austin first, because he will break his foot off in Madman Fulton's ass for "leaving change on the table," as he can make a dollar out of 15 cents.
Moose retains the TNA World Heavyweight Championship against Crazzy Steve. After the match, Moose continues to attack Crazzy Steve, and referees have to show up. Tommy Dreamer also shows up and confronts Moose, who pretends to walk away only to attack Dreamer.
After the commercial break, Tommy Dreamer says he has been in the business for years and that he can count the amount of wrestlers he has seen with the same amount of talent and ability as Moose with one hand. He says that Moose played football because his friends wanted him to and that he became a wrestler to get another paycheck, but his talent and ability got him far in both sports. He also says that Moose didn't listen to other people in the business and began making the same mistakes he made, and as a result, he has never been a champion and had to create a championship for himself. Dreamer says he has been beaten by better, and while the world is going through hard times, wrestling has not stopped, and while Impact Wrestling did everything they could to keep everyone happy and secure while everything else was going on, Moose continued to be ungrateful. Dreamer says that while his belly and his hiney might be a little bit big like Dusty Rhodes', he is a bad, violent man, and Moose will be a footnote in football and wrestling because he is a waste of talent.
Backstage, Hernandez beats Cousin Jake in an arm wrestling match. Cody Deaner bets double or nothing he can beat Hernandez. Hernandez wins again, and Cody Deaner has to pay up.
Kiera Hogan beats Havok after Tasha Steelz tosses Havok's mask to Hogan to use as a weapon, which Hogan is successfully able to do.
Backstage, Moose says that Tommy Dreamer knows nothing about him except what he read on Wikipedia, and that everything Dreamer said about him was slander. He demands Dreamer respect him and give him a public apology or else he will sue him and Impact Wrestling.
At Slammiversary: A Knockouts Gauntlet Match to decide a #1 contender for the Impact Knockouts Championship! Next week: Sami Callihan vs. "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander!
Madman Fulton beats Trey Miguel by disqualification after Trey hits Fulton with Ace Austin's cane. After the match, Trey hits Austin and Fulton with a steel chair to end the show.
After the show, we see the Super Eric cape and mask. Somebody takes the mask.
Here's this week's post-show!
Here are all of the backstage segments!
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
The show begins with Bayley and Sasha Banks attacking Asuka while Samoa Joe is calling for referees to rush into the ring and stop the brawl. After the brawl is over, Samoa Joe introduces everyone to the show, then the brawl restarts with the referees breaking it up again. Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler shows up. Ziggler introduces Drew McIntyre as "the man with the audacity not to give [him] what he wants" as well as "the most ungrateful man." McIntyre shows up. After this, the double contract signing begins, with Samoa Joe moderating. Ziggler says McIntyre is WWE Champion because of him, and says that McIntyre would be nowhere without him, as he has carried monsters like McIntyre on his back. Ziggler says he knows McIntyre will do anything to retain the WWE Championship, but at Extreme Rules, McIntyre will hate him when he continues to keep getting up and surviving and destroys his redemption story. Ziggler tells McIntyre that he created him, and that at Extreme Rules, he will destroy him. He then signs the contract, and McIntyre does the same. McIntyre says there was a time that he and Ziggler were like family, and while he admits he was fired and had to go through a lot to become the champion he is today, he has learned that Ziggler wants the WWE title to be the center of attention. He notes that Ziggler has always dropped the ball when he has come so close, and at Extreme Rules, he will hurt and slaughter him. McIntyre says that since Ziggler thinks he has a chance, he can pick the stipulation for their title match. Ziggler says that there is no storybook ending or third chance for McIntyre, then Asuka grabs the microphone and interrupts him before signing the contract for her match. Sasha tells Asuka that she is not the same person she beat before, and that she will become a dual champion and take over both locker rooms and "the whole damn company" before signing the contract with her stamp of approval. After Bayley mouths off at Asuka, Asuka attacks Sasha and Bayley, and Dolph Ziggler tries to attack Drew McIntyre only to get booted in the head and out of the ring by McIntyre.
Backstage, Angel Garza tries to flirt with referee Jessica Carr. When Charly Caruso interviews him, Zelina Vega and Andrade, Zelina says they are trying to make sure their match is called fairly. As Andrade says that they will soon be next in line for a tag team title shot, Big Show shows up and says he has to cut rank and deal with Randy Orton. Andrade, Garza and Andrade take exception to this.
Asuka and Drew McIntyre vs. Dolph Ziggler and Sasha Banks is official for later tonight.
Big Show is in the ring. He calls out Randy Orton, but gets Andrade, Angel Garza and Zelina Vega instead. Big Show apologizes to Zelina Vega for interrupting her interview, but says he is on important business and is not a man to try. Andrade and Angel Garza mock Big Show, but Big Show warns them again not to try him. When Big Show, Zelina Vega says that Andrade and Angel Garza will do Randy Orton a favor when they teach him a lesson, then tells Big Show to say hello to Edge and Christian in the retirement home. Suddenly, "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair shows up and says he needs to have a word with Big Show, and says that nobody will handle his career like Randy Orton will, saying that Orton will take him out whenever he feels like it. Flair says that Orton will show up whenever he feels like it and that he is doing his "light work," then tells Big Show that he has had his run and tells him that if he plays around with Orton, Orton will have him on the outside looking in all over again. He then tells Zelina Vega to continue with sicking Andrade and Garza on Big Show before leaving, then The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up and brawl with Andrade and Garza.
Andrade and Angel Garza beat The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) despite Andrade and Garza having another verbal spat with each other mid-match.
Backstage, Ruby Riott is approached by The IIconics (Billie Kay and Peyton Royce), who say that Ruby Riott has no friends and that Ruby can't get any wins, but Ruby Riott reminds them that they blew their tag team titles before challenging one of them to a match.
Backstage, "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair approaches Zelina Vega, Andrade and Angel Garza as they argue, congratulates them on their victory, then asks to meet with Zelina.
R-Truth beats Akira Tozawa to become the WWE 24/7 Champion after feigning a leg injury and pinning Tozawa with a schoolkid pin. Afterwards, R-Truth runs away from Tozawa's ninjas.
Backstage, Lashley tells MVP that Apollo Crews disrespected both of them by rejecting MVP's offer, and MVP says that the offer is dead as Apollo's title reign. MVP then proposes dropping a few lessons so that Lashley can learn from Apollo's mistakes. They pass by Seth Rollins and Murphy. Seth Rollins says that tonight's message is the most important to date, and that he must deliver it now before he loses the chance.
Big Show vs. Andrade and Angel Garza is official for later tonight.
Seth Rollins and Murphy show up. Rollins talks about how Rey stood in the ring and stated that nothing would stop him from returning to the ring and believed that with all of his heart. Rollins agrees, stating that Rey has a duty to uphold even though he has not seen things clearly as of late. Rollins states that instead of his family, Rey's real duty is to be a sacrifice for Raw, yet Rey has defied him at every turn. Rollins then asks Rey to forgive him not for what he has done, but for what he is forcing him to do. Rollins says he and Rey are bound by fate, as as fate would have it, he is the Monday Night Messiah and Rey is meant to be a sacrifice for the greater good of Raw. He says that every time Rey steps into the ring, he will be forced to take a piece of him. He says that little by little, he will tear him apart piece by piece until there is nothing left but a memory. Suddenly, Rey and Dominick are on the TitanTron. Rey asks for forgiveness from Dominick for what he will do to Seth Rollins after what he did to his eye as well as to Dominick, and says he must do something to Seth that is remorseless as what Seth did to him. Rey tells Rollins that what he will do to him is not by fate, but by design. Dominick forgives Rey, but tells Rollins he will never forgive him and that what Rey will do to Rollins will be ordained by fate. Rollins tells Dominick to be careful what he wishes for, for if he continues to stand in the way of the greater good, he will be forced to end his career before it ever begins. Suddenly, Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo show up and run Rollins and Murphy off. After the commercial break, Rollins wants to know why Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo keep fighting for Rey when Rey will not fight for them, calling Rey a fraud and a coward when he says Carrillo looks to him like a god. Carrillo says Rollins is the fraud and also less of a man than Rey is, and Aleister says he knows a thing or two about evil and that he recognizes evil when he looks at it. He says there will be no forgiveness; only atonement for what Rollins has done. Rollins tells Aleister that he has seen nothing yet if he thinks he has seen evil, and that this ends now. This starts a match.
Seth Rollins and Murphy beat Aleister Black and Humberto Carrillo. After the match, both teams continue to fight, and Aleister is tossed into the timekeeper's area while Rollins and Murphy prepare to sacrifice Carrillo on the steel steps. Carillo fights back, but Murphy strikes him with the steel steps. Rollins then puts the purple Rey Mysterio mask on Carrillo's head before Murphy drags Carrillo to the steel steps. As Rollins tries to sacrifice Carrillo, Aleister stops them and goes after Murphy, but Rollins hits Carrillo with The Stomp to the steel steps.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Asuka and Drew McIntyre. Drew says they will have fun with Sasha Banks and Dolph Ziggler tonight, and that Dolph will try to get an advantage on him. He also says that he allowed Dolph Ziggler to pick the stipulation for their WWE Championship match so that Ziggler will have no excuses when he beats him. He says that Sasha Banks is not ready for Asuka, and Asuka says Ziggler is not ready for McIntyre.
We see a video package chronicling The Undertaker's WWE career.
Backstage, Lana meets with Ruby Riott, but Ruby says she is not interested and tells her to ruin another promising career and leave her alone. Lana then proceeds to put Natalya on a pedestal, then leaves.
It is announced that this week's NXT will air with limited commercials.
It is announced that Charlotte Flair has suffered a fracture to her left collarbone after being attacked by Nia Jax.
Peyton Royce beats Ruby Riott following the distraction by Billie Kay.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Big Show. He knows "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair and Randy Orton have a plan, and that Flair is the dirtiest player in the game. Because of that, Orton is the most dangerous apex predator in the business, but he welcomes the challenge. As far as Andrade and Angel Garza, they are getting an angry giant tonight.
Big Show beats Andrade and Angel Garza after Andrade and Garza argue when Andrade wants to finish off Big Show. After the match, Big Show gives Andrade a knockout punch.
Backstage, R-Truth meets Apollo Crews, Cedric Alexander and Ricochet, then suddenly thinks they are Akira Tozawa's ninjas in disguise. He soon realizes they aren't, then says they have no idea what it is like to be a fighting champion.
Before the next match, MVP says that when he returns home, people ask him how they can be successful like him. MVP says it is important to give back, hence why he is managing Lashley and tapping into the potential he possesses. He says that Apollo Crews has rejected his mentorship and that he will not let Apollo disrespect him, then Apollo shows up and says he is a self-made man like MVP, and says if MVP didn't care about himself, he would have listened to him. Instead, MVP kept pushing, because the only person MVP cares about helping is himself. MVP tells Apollo he will find out he did not want him as his enemy.
MVP beats Apollo Crews following the distraction by Bobby Lashley. After the match, Apollo attacks MVP, but Lashley puts Apollo in the full nelson and referees have to break the hold.
Bobby Lashley beats Ricochet in the full nelson. After the match, Lashley puts Cedric Alexander in the full nelson when Cedric checks on Ricochet.
Backstage, Dolph Ziggler talks with Sasha Banks and Bayley. Sasha and Bayley make it clear to Ziggler not to ruin tonight for them.
Bayley guests on commentary for the next match.
Sasha Banks and Dolph Ziggler beat Asuka and Drew McIntyre after Sasha rolls out of the Asuka Lock and pins Asuka's shoulders to the mat.
Raw Talk: Bayley and Sasha Banks talk about being double champions.
Today's episode is a "best-of" episode and recaps the March 7, 2020. Highlights and matches include:
Ice Williams vs. Dan Joseph for the United Television Championship from March 7, 2020
Backstage, Buddy Royal says that he and Levi Shapiro were not only tag team partners, but brothers in the ring, and that money has come between them. He says that Shapiro used to rely on him to obtain a shortcut victory, but now that they are enemies, he will tap him out as soon as he gets his hands on him.
Jack Banning vs. Levi Shapiro from March 7, 2020, and Shapiro's post-match promo
Anthony Idol and Frankie Frank vs. Vermin (Johnny Yuma and Kevin Martenson) from March 7, 2020
Backstage, The Wolf Zaddies (Che Cabrera and Bad Dude Tito) are interviewed. Che lets Tito handle the interview, and Tito says they see Johnny Yuma trying to stir things up and that Vermin (Johnny Yuma and Kevin Martenson) is in the past. He then says that The Wolf Zaddies will beat them at the PP3 Cup finals.
Ray Rosas vs. Jordan Clearwater in the PP3 Cup semi-finals from March 7, 2020
The show begins with a video package tribute to The Undertaker.
The locker room is on the stage and the ramp, clapping and chanting "Thank you, Taker."
We look back on The Undertaker's debut at Survivor Series 1990.
We hear John Cena and Roman Reigns talk about The Undertaker's dedication to professional wrestling.
We look back on the Boneyard Match between The Undertaker and "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles from WrestleMania 36. (During the show, it is announced on commentary that this is The Undertaker's final match, confirming that The Undertaker has retired from in-ring competition.)
We hear from Edge on his thoughts on The Undertaker.
Kane and "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair talk about what The Undertaker means to them.
King Corbin is in the ring. He calls The Undertaker is "an old bag of bones" and a shell of what he used to be despite having a storied 30-year-career, then brings up The Undertaker being a founding member of the Kiss My Ass Club. Corbin says The Undertaker only has a 30-year career because he was "coddled and protected" by the owners and that The Undertaker has stolen money from WWE for the last 20 years. He goes on to call The Undertaker "a selfish son-of-a-bitch" who kept talented wrestlers like him down, then says he does not thank The Undertaker at all before leaving him with one final thought: "You suck!" Suddenly, Corbin is attacked from behind by Jeff Hardy.
We hear from "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Kurt Angle about their thoughts on The Undertaker.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Jeff Hardy, who says that King Corbin hit a nerve and that if it were up to him, The Undertaker - whom he calls his mentor - would be on WWE's Mount Rushmore four times. After saying that he will teach Corbin a lesson in The Undertaker's stead, he challenges Corbin to a match, saying that he got his degree from Deadman University and he is about to unleash some painful knowledge.
Bayley and Sasha Banks guest on commentary for the next match.
Nikki Cross beats Lacey Evans, Dana Brooke and Alexa Bliss in a Fatal 4-Way Match with a schoolkid pin to Lacey, who has just hit Dana with a Woman's Right, to face Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship.
We hear from Triple H and "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels concerning their thoughts on The Undertaker.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) and The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) beat Cesaro, Shinsuke Nakamura, The Miz and John Morrison.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews King Corbin, who says that Jeff Hardy's mentoring only led him in and out of jail and that Jeff should hang it up like The Undertaker. He says that Jeff will rest in peace like The Undertaker after tonight.
Braun Strowman shows up. He talks about the first time he saw Bray Wyatt, saying he felt fear that makes one's hair stand on end and leave a feeling in the pit of one's stomach. He mentions one night in the swamp of the Wyatt compound and how Bray stopped him from stomping a water moccasin, saying it was his friend before kneeling down and taking multiple bites to the face only to laugh. It was then that he knew that he was in the presence of evil, as all Bray Wyatt did was laugh as he was repeatedly bit. He knew that Bray was not only "the devil himself," but that he was "the serpent." It was then that he did "the devil's work." His voice gets even deeper as he says that he loved every second of it and that parts of him still do, then it goes back to normal when he says he has tried to lock that part of him away only for it to call for him. Strowman tells Bray that he cannot continue to live this way and proposes to Bray that they return to the swamp he calls home, saying he will either come out "the most evil son-of-a-bitch the world has ever seen" or having torn the devil apart. He then says he will let the alligators finish Bray Wyatt off when he is done with him, as he will turn his home into the site of his destruction. Bray's laughter is heard, and Strowman laughs along with it.
We hear from Batista and Mick Foley about their thoughts on The Undertaker.
Sheamus' toast to Jeff Hardy has been pushed back to next week. (This is due to positive tests of COVID-19 at the Performance Center, which has caused the plans for this week's show to be changed into a tribute show for The Undertaker.)
Jeff Hardy beats King Corbin. After the match, Corbin attacks Jeff Hardy from behind. This causes The New Day to get in the ring, and after Corbin clotheslines Kofi, Big E catches Corbin and hits the Big Ending. Hardy then asks Braun Strowman to get in the ring. Strowman gets in the ring and hits Corbin with a powerslam, then Hardy asks Matt Riddle to get in the ring. Riddle gets in the ring and hits Corbin with the Floating Bro. The show ends with everyone in the ring celebrating as a photo of The Undertaker is shown on the TitanTron.
Note: This week's episode is a "Superstar Picks" episode.
Jinny picks Nikki Cross vs. Asuka in a Last Woman Standing Match for the NXT Women's Championship from June 28, 2017.
Nina Samuels picks The British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith and The Dynamite Kid) vs. The Dream Team (Greg "The Hammer" Valentine and Brutus Beefcake) for the WWF Tag Team Championships at WrestleMania 2
We see a vignette for Ridge Holland.
Next week: more Superstar Picks!
Aoife Valkyrie picks Finn Balor vs. Kevin Owens for the NXT Championship at The Beast In The East
In footage from one hour before the show, it is revealed that Damian Priest has been attacked near his black sports car. Cameron Grimes gets the attention of the cameraman before this, saying Priest looks "a little squashed."
Before the next match, Cameron Grimes says that Damian Priest is no-showing the biggest match of his career after slashing his own tires and acting like he's been attacked on the parking lot while he faced Finn Balor with a broken jaw. Grimes tells the referee to get in the ring, raise his hand and declare him winner via forfeit, but Damien Priest gets in the ring. Cameron Grimes attacks Priest, who is still willing to fight despite a hurt back.
Cameron Grimes beats a freshly injured Damian Priest.
In footage from earlier today, Rhea Ripley is approached by Robert Stone, who states that Aliyah has officially signed with the Robert Stone brand and that he has a golden ticket and second chance to join him. Rhea Ripley punches Robert Stone in the gut and throws him in a dumpster, then Aliyah confronts her. When Aliyah slaps Rhea Ripley, Ripley tells Aliyah that she just earned a golden ticket into her ring.
We see Timothy Thatcher teach some prospects a half crab and a double wrist lock.
Santos Escobar beats Jake Atlas.
The Undisputed Era's (Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O'Reilly, Roderick Strong) therapy sessions for Roderick Strong continue. Strong says that he can still keep seeing Dexter Lumis chasing him, but he says that today, he can conquer his fear of the trunk. Strong then realizes that Kyle O'Reilly is the doctor, then the four of them go outside. Strong gets in the trunk, then Adam Cole shuts it before having the driver pop the trunk. Cole then tells Strong that he will face Lumis tonight.
Backstage, Mackenzie Mitchell interviews Malcolm Bivens, who says he is pissed off after Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch attacked Indus Sher (Rinku and Saurav) last week, and that if it weren't for him, Lorcan and Burch would have been in an ambulance.
Dakota Kai and Raquel Gonzalez beat Kacy Catanzaro and Kayden Carter.
Karrion Kross beats Bronson Reed with the Kross Jacket.
Backstage, Mackenzie Mitchell interviews Adam Cole, who says that it does not matter who he defends the NXT Championship against because he will beat them, and that he is focused on putting the North American title on his mantle.
We see another vignette for Mercedes Martinez.
Rhea Ripley beats Aliyah after chasing Robert Stone around the ring for throwing a shoe at her and grabbing the ropes to avoid a roll-up attempt by Aliyah.
Dexter Lumis beats Roderick Strong by count-out after Strong cannot bear the thought of facing Lumis and runs to the back. After the match, Lumis grabs onto Bobby Fish, and Fish escapes his grasp and runs to the back.
Backstage, Robert Stone tells General Manager William Regal that they both want a rematch between Aliyah and Rhea Ripley. Regal makes the match official, but Robert Stone is put in the match, making it a two-on-one handicap match. After Stone says that Ripley will join his brand if he and Aliyah win, Rhea Ripley shows up and tells Robert Stone she will see him and Aliyah next week.
Next week: Mia Yim vs. Tean Nox vs. Candice LeRae vs. Dakota Kai in a NXT Women's Championship #1 Contender Fatal 4-Way Match! Dexter Lumis vs. Roderick Strong in a Strap Match!
Next week: The Great American Bash comes to NXT!
Keith Lee retains the NXT North American Championship against Finn Balor and Johnny Gargano, and will face Adam Cole for the NXT Championship in two weeks. After the match, Adam Cole gets in the ring and has a staredown with Keith Lee to end the show.
Wardlow beats Luchasaurus in a Lumberjack Match with a low blow after Jungle Boy tackles MJF off the apron. After the match, MJF attacks Jungle Boy, which in turn causes the lumberjackst o keep Wardlow and Luchasaurus apart. It is announced that MJF and Wardlow vs. Jurassic Express (Jungle Boy and Luchasaurus) is official for Fyter Fest.
Taz explains Brian Cage's Drill Claw as part of "Technique By Taz."
Dr. Britt Baker is now guarded by a plexi-glass barrier and a bodyguard as she sits in her Role's Royce.
Before the next match, Penelope Ford confronts Hikaru Shida from behind the barricade, then slaps her. The referee has to keep Hikaru Shida from hitting Penelope with her Kendo stick. This fire Hikaru Shida up, and she beats Red Velvet in record time before jumping the barricade and attacking Penelope Ford, also slapping "Superbad" Kip Sabian in the process.
We see footage from a press conference between "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Jake Hager regarding their match for the AEW TNT Championship at Fyter Fest. "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson is not fazed by Jake Hager's absence at the start of the press conference, as Hager is either doubting himself or too stupid to put up a brave front despite Cody wanting to face him , and says that Cody will still be champion after Fyter Fest. Cody says that he is hopeful for Fyter Fest, and states that Ricky Starks left last week's Dynamite with work and a job after last week's TNT Championship match. He says that he takes wrestling seriously, as it has fed him as long as he has been alive and that he likes the feeling of professional wrestling from wrestling in the ring to the enjoyment the fans have at home. Cody also credits the TNT Championship - which is still incomplete - with getting AEW through the COVID-19 pandemic. Suddenly, Hager shows up with his wife, and both Cody and Hager have a staredown before Hager places his fist mere inches away from Cody, who smacks it back. After Hager backs off, his wife throws a glass of water at Cody's face, then she and Jake Hager walk off.
Sonny Kiss talks with "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela, saying that everybody loses themselves every once in a while. As Joey Janela buys food at a convenience store, five men attack Sonny Kiss as he refuels his convertible. Sonny Kiss fights back, and Joey joins in when he sees what is going on. Afterwards, Sonny says that he can get used to this, and Joey agrees.
Colt Cabana and Brodie Lee beat Sonny Kiss and "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela. After the match, Lance Archer shows up and attacks Sonny Kiss. Joey Janela throws a steel chair at Archer, but it does not faze him, and Jake "The Snake" Roberts has to hold Archer back.
FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) beat SoCal Uncensored ("The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian). (SoCal Uncensored replaces The Natural Nightmares ("The Natural" Dustin Rhodes and QT Marshall) in this match-up due to QT Marshall having been exposed to someone with COVID-19.) After the match, Harwood says that he and Wheeler are "a welcome addition to the AEW tag team roster," then says there are good guys and there are bad guys. He says that they may be barely scratching the surface, but FTR is "the absolute baddest." Harwood then congratulates The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson)for graduating from "the kiddie table," but they are now with the big boys and they are biting off more than they can chew as they are the baddest men on the planet. Suddenly, The Butcher and The Blade are commandeering FTR's pick-up truck, and The Blade says that they have been looking for a new meat wagon and that this fits the bill. As FTR try to get out of the ring, The Blade threatens to have The Butcher tear the truck apart if they take another step. Suddenly, The Lucha Bros. (Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix) are standing behind FTR in the ring, and The Blade says that while FTR may be excited to take on The Young Bucks, they are challenging them and The Young Bucks to an eight-man tag team match against them and The Lucha Bros. FTR accept their challenge, then brawl with The Lucha Bros., who overpower FTR. The Young Bucks then show up and chase The Lucha Bros. out of the ring.
We see a video package for Best Friends (Chuck Taylor and Trent) vs. Kenny Omega and "Hangman" Adam Page for the AEW World Tag Team Championships at Fyter Fest.
We see a video package for Jon Moxley vs. Brian Cage for the AEW World Championship at Fyter Fest.
Brian Cage quickly beats Jon Cruz. (Jon Moxley was Cruz' original opponent, but has pulled out due to coming in contact with someone who has COVID-19; it is later revealed to be his wife, WWE personality Renee Young.) After the match, Taz says that Cage came to work and competed while Moxley is "sitting at home with some bullshit excuse" because he is afraid of Cage. He says that Fyter Fest is coming and that the AEW World Championship is in danger, and that Cage will hurt Moxley more than he ever had been at Fyter Fest before taking the title. He then asks Moxley if he can stop the path of Cage.
Backstage, Brodie Lee meets with Colt Cabana regarding their win. Lee asks Colt to allow him one more opportunity against some unbelievers in SoCal Uncensored ("The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian, Scorpio Sky), and tells them to bring their best man at Fyter Fest, for they are in his sight.
Next week: Jurassic Express (Luchasaurus and Jungle Boy) vs. MJF and Wardlow! Private Party (Marq Quen and Isiah Kassidy) vs. Proud 'n Powerful (Santana and Ortiz)! Penelope Ford vs. Hikaru Shida for the AEW Women's World Championship! Jake Hager vs. "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for the AEW TNT Championship! Best Friends (Chuck Taylor and Trent) vs. Kenny Omega and "Hangman" Adam Page for the AEW World Tag Team Championships! In two weeks: Lance Archer vs. "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela! "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose in action! SoCal Uncensored ("The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian, Scorpio Sky) vs. Colt Cabana and The Dark Order (Brodie Lee and Stu Grayson)! Orange Cassidy vs. Chris Jericho! The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) and FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) vs. The Butcher, The Blade and The Lucha Bros. (Pentagon Jr. and Rey Fenix)! Brian Cage vs. Jon Moxley for the AEW World Championship!
Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. sends a message to Big Swole, saying that she will get her revenge against Big Swole. Suddenly, Big Swole approaches Baker, wanting to know why she keeps running her mouth. She then goes behind the Role's Royce, climbs up and pours a whole trash can's worth of trash onto Britt Baker.
"Broken" Matt Hardy beats Santana after reversing an O'Connor Roll into one of his own. After the match, Ortiz hits Matt Hardy with a madball, then he and Santana hit him with the Street Sweeper. Santana and Ortiz get out of the ring when Private Party (Marq Quen and Isiah Kassidy) run into the ring.
Orange Cassidy shows up, followed by Chris Jericho. Jericho says that the chicken crossed the road to get to the other side, and while it is amusing to hear at first, it soon becomes "annoying and dumb," which explains Orange Cassidy. He calls Cassidy the "chicken crossed the road joke" in wrestling, and the more he sees him, the more he pisses him off. He says that his name was stupid and that his matches were an embarrassment, and when Cassidy was signed to AEW, he found out that it was because people loved him. Jericho admits that he "kinda got it" after watching a few more of Cassidy's matches, saying that Cassidy is different and has done things differently enough that he got over on his own just by being himself. He says that Cassidy's appeal is that he like the fans: lazy, a slacker, and not having what it takes to make it to the top, and that he made a mistake getting in his face. Jericho then tells Cassidy to be the best person he can be at Fyter Fest, because he will kick his teeth down his throat in 30 seconds if he tries his comedic shin kicks. He tells Cassidy to reach deep into his pockets and pull out "a man-sized miracle," as that is what it will take to beat him at Fyter Fest, and says that will not happen as the phenomenon will be over and he will run out of juice. Cassidy takes the microphone away from Jericho, then puts it down and comically kicks at Jericho's shins before putting his hands in his pockets. Jericho takes Cassidy's sunglasses and breaks them, and Cassidy hits Jericho with a double-leg takedown, starting a brawl that sees Cassidy take Jericho behind the barricade before Jericho strikes back and takes it into the stands. Jericho eventually smacks Cassidy with a Steadicam, busting Cassidy's right ear open, but Cassidy fights back and punches Jericho off a box and into a table with a Superman Punch t end the show.
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
SoCal Uncensored ("The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian) beat David Ali and Musa.
Shawn Spears beats Pineapple Pete after Tully Blanchard leaves a metal slug in the ring for Spears to place in his glove, which lets him hit Pineapple Pete with a knockout punch.
Before the next match, Lance Archer brings a man to the ring and hits him with a running powerslam.
Lance Archer beats Griff Garrison by pinfall with the iron claw. After the match, the man that Archer powerslammed gets choke slammed when he rolls into the ring.
"The Bad Boy" Joey Janela and Sonny Kiss beat The Dark Order (Alex Reynolds and John Silver, also known as 3 and 4).
Mel beats KiLynn King.
Scorpio Sky beats Lee Johnson.
Jurassic Express (Jungle Boy, Marko Stunt, Luchasaurus) beats Luther, Serpentico and Max Caster after and SGS to Caster.
Orange Cassidy beats "The Librarian" Peter Avalon.
Tasha Steelz beats Nevaeh with a schoolkid pin following the distraction by Kiera Hogan.
We see an excerpt from Deonna Purrazzo's recent interview on Busted Open Radio where Jordynne Grace confronts Purrazzo, saying she will "fucking crush her" when they meet in the ring. Deonna calls Jordynne "jealous" and "classless," and says that when they meet in the ring, she will become Knockouts Champion.
Backstage, Deonna Purrazzo says that Jordynne Grace wants to put her hands on her, but she came to Impact to become a champion. Suddenly, Alisha Edwards shows up to give some advice, but Deonna wants nothing to do with her. This leads to Alisha Edwards challenging her to a match.
Backstage, Johnny Swinger meets with Rich Swann and tries to get him to be his and Chris Bey's mystery partner tonight. Swann says he is still injured, that Willie is still his friend, and that he will tell Willie what he tried to do.
The Impact Plus Flashback Moment of the Week is Bully Ray vs. Devon from November 1, 2012.
Backstage, "All Ego" Ethan Page tells "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander it annoys him to no end that everyone "drools over Ken Shamrock" and that he does not get the hype while he and Josh are the two best wrestlers in Impact today. He says that they should get more matches and more money, but they are getting no attention and he is getting angrier and angrier. Suddenly, Shamrock shows up and tells him that him nothing came easy for him. Alexander challenges Shamrock to a match, which Shamrock is all too willing to accept.
Backstage, Moose says nobody is taking him seriously as champion when Crazzy Steve shows up and calls Moose a fake world champion. He says that if Moose is a champion, then he has a top ten hit on Billboard. Crazzy Steve continues to mock Moose, who tells Steve that he has earned a title opportunity and that he will realize who the real world champion is when he sends him to the hospital.
Deonna Purrazzo beats Alisha Edwards by submission. After the match, Jordynne Grace chases Deonna Purrazzo out of the ring.
Backstage, Johnny Swinger is seen asking Suicide to be his and Chris Bey's mystery partner. Suicide walks away as soon as Swinger looks away from him.
Backstage, Johnny Swinger tries to talk Hernandez into being his and Chris Bey's mystery partner. Hernandez says he will do it if Swinger can beat him at arm wrestling. Hernandez beats him, then gives him a Rhino Micro Brawler as a consolation prize. He then runs into Taya Valkyrie and asks her to be his and Chris Bey's partner, but Taya refuses and says she is looking for John E. Bravo.
The North ("All Ego" Ethan Page tells "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander) attack Ken Shamrock before the next match begins and easily overpower him, and Ethan Page stomps on Shamrock as Alexander puts him in the ankle lock.
Taya Valkyrie beats Susie.
After the match, Taya mocks Susie before choking her out with her hair, then Kylie Rae shows up and smacks Taya with a superkick.
Backstage, Jimmy Jacobs interviews Madman Fulton, but Ace Austin shows up and says he should worry less about what Fulton thinks and more about what he does. He says that Fulton has potential, and that their alliance is all about becoming the greatest Impact World Champion of all time.
Backstage, Chris Bey meets with Johnny Swinger, who says he has got his "original pick:" Rohit Raju. Chris Bey is not happy with Swinger's pick for their mystery partner.
Chris Bey, Johnny Swinger and Rohit Raju beat Willie Mack and The Deaners (Cody Deaner and Cousin Jake).
Backstage, Reno Scum (Adam Thornstowe and Luster The Legend) gives D'Lo Brown a hard time when TJP and Fallah Bahh show up and confront them for accusing them of attacking Trey Miguel. This leads to Reno Scum challenging them to a match next week.
Next week: TJP and Fallah Bahh vs. Reno Scum (Adam Thornstowe and Luster The Legend)! Kiera Hogan vs. Havok! Crazzy Steve vs. Moose for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship! At Slammiversary: Deonna Purrazzo vs. Jordynne Grace for the Impact Knockouts Championship!
Madman Fulton beats Eddie Edwards.
After the show, D'Lo Brown is seen talking with someone on a laptop, saying he is tired of being a corporate stooge and that it is time for "the band to get back together. He gets out of his seat to reveal his old Aces and Eights kutte, which he takes with him.
Here are all the backstage segments...and more!
Here are the top five moments from tonight's show!
Drew McIntyre shows up to start tonight's show. McIntyre talks about last week's match with R-Truth against MVP and Bobby Lashley, then says it is time to look to the future. Before he can say anything else, however, Dolph Ziggler shows up. Ziggler announces that after AJ Styles was traded to SmackDown, he and Bobby Roode were been traded to Raw in return. He then says he is happy to see Drew as WWE Champion, then says Drew owes him. Ziggler then goes on and says that years ago, Drew was fired, and that Drew would have been done if it were not for him bringing Drew to the main roster. He then says Drew is WWE Champion because of him, then says he knows Drew needs a challenger for Extreme Rules. Ziggler then says that all he is asking for is what he is owed, but McIntyre reminds Ziggler that he has done nothing but lose since they split apart because Ziggler became what they used to despise: an entitled jackass. McIntyre then mentions that he does need an opponent for Extreme Rules, then mentions Ziggler's old "Scottish Psychopath" nickname for him and tells him what he is capable of now before asking if he still wants the match. Ziggler says yes, and McIntyre says the match is official.
Nia Jax shows up with a steel chair and sits in the center of the ring. Nia says that Charlotte Flair got what she wanted tonight regardless of whether she deserved it or not while she was cheated out of a championship at Backlash by a crooked referee. Suddenly, R-Truth shows up. R-Truth says he is supposed to have a match against an evil leader of a ninja clan in Akira Tozawa for the WWE 24/7 Championship, then thinks Nia is the real Tozawa, as ninjas are masters of deception and disguise. Nia says she is not in the mood, then R-Truth sees Akira Tozawa behind the announce table. As ninjas surround the ring, Truth says he sees two Tozawas, then runs over the barricade. Charlotte Flair then shows up. Charlotte says that Nia squandered her last two title matches and dropped the ball, and now she is throwing "a huge hissy-fit." Nia says Charlotte gets what she wants because of her dad being "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair, then Charlotte gets in the ring. After Nia says that her father has helped her career, she tells Charlotte has never beaten her and has only beaten "easy targets," for she is the only woman built to take her crown. Charlotte hits Nia, and both women brawl in the ring, leading referees to run into the ring and separate them.
Backstage, The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) are ready for their tie-breaker with The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik), who soon show up as soon as they are about to say that "The Viking Profits" are forever. Dawkins says that when the bell rings, it is on and they will do what it takes to stay champions. Erik tells The Street Profits that nothing will stop them from taking the titles back. As both teams leave, Zelina Vega shows up and smiles, as if she has an idea.
The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) retain the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships against The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik). After the match, The Street Profits are attacked by Andrade and Angel Garza, who run when The Viking Raiders rush back into the ring.
Backstage, Austin Theory and Murphy try to speak to Seth Rollins, who tells them that he has a message for Rey Mysterio and that soon, all will be revealed.
Backstage, Seth Rollins says that sometimes in life, we are destined for roles beyond our choices and that he did not choose to be the Monday Night Messiah as Rey Mysterio did not choose to be a sacrifice. He then says the difference between himself and Rey is that he he has embraced his role in the greater good, while Rey has been defiant and that defiance breeds suffering. He also says that Rey has allowed his son Dominick to become involved. Rollins that whatever becomes of Rey and Dominick will be on Rey, as the greater good is coming for us all and there is nothing Rey can do to stop it. Rollins says that while legends never die, they can outlive their welcome.
Backstage in the trainer's room, Charly Caruso interviews Charlotte Flair, who says her arm will be just fine holding the WWE Raw Women's Championship. As she leaves, Charly Caruso hears Andrade, Zelina Vega and Angel Garza, and interviews them. Angel Garza says that when you know what you want, you know you have to take risks. Zelina says the three of them are now a united front and have turned their differences into strength and will be taking a common prize: the Raw tag team titles.
Asuka retains the WWE Raw Women's Championship with the Asuka Lock.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Nia Jax, who says it would be a real shame to kick Charlotte Flair while she is down.
We hear from Edge, who admits that Randy Orton won at Backlash but did not live up to his claim of being the greatest technical wrestler. He says he felt the panic when he was about to hit the Anti-Venom, and that it caused Orton to hit him with a low blow. He says that while Orton beating him means everything in his world, him beating Orton is what he expects, and he is ashamed that he did not hit the low blow first. He says that will not happen again. Edge goes on to say that he lit a fire in Orton's gut and reminded him that he is "The Legend Killer," and says that his injury has reminded him to wake up a side of him that has laid dormant for way too long. He says that after what Orton did to his life-long friend Christian, he woke up a side of him that will sink to any level to get what he wants, and now he wants to embarrass and emasculate Orton. He says that his family will know that Orton is not okay, and while Orton has voices in his head, he will scream louder than all of them and tear his life apart brick by brick from the inside. Edge tells Orton that he has no idea what he has done, and that he has woke him up.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Randy Orton, who says that when a snake feels threatened, it will strike wildly and blindly to survive, which is what he did to Edge and Christian. He says he will do to defend his family and livelihood and to survive, and while he wishes Edge and Christian a full recovery, he recommends they do it far away from him.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Charlotte Flair, who says she is not happy with what happened tonight. As she says that targeting her arm is the only way Asuka won tonight, she is suddenly attacked by Nia Jax. Nia slams the lid of a box on Charlotte's arm before leaving.
Before the next match begins, MVP and Bobby Lashley show up. Akira Tozawa hides underneath the ring as MVP and Lashley attack the ninjas and confront R-Truth. Lashley then puts R-Truth in the full nelson before leaving with MVP. After Lashley and MVP leave, Tozawa comes out from underneath the ring and pins R-Truth to win the WWE 24/7 Championship.
Backstage, Natalya says she feels bad for Charlotte Flair and says that the women's division needs her leadership, as Asuka is not the best leader. She then chews out Sarah Schreiber for not interviewing her, as they have no time for her announcement due to her match being next.
Natalya beats Liv Morgan with the Sharpshooter following the distraction by Lana.
Backstage, Charly Caruso interviews Big Show, who says that just when he thinks he's seen it all, he's seen ninjas. He says he was only here last week to say hello to some old friends, then he had an opportunity to fight ninjas. He says that his career is mostly focused on his acting career, but right now, he has some business from last week to take care of and he can still be an angry, heartless giant.
Dolph Ziggler vs. Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship is official for Extreme Rules.
"The Nature Boy" Ric Flair shows up. Ric tells Nia Jax that she will wish she worked in a different environment when his daughter Charlotte Flair comes back, then says that Randy Orton is the greatest wrestler today after punting Edge and Christian back into retirement. He then introduces Randy Orton to the ring. Ric calls Orton the best performer in the history of WWE, then shakes his hand. Orton thanks Ric, saying it is nostalgic that they are both in the ring, and that nostalgia can be confused with legacy. He says it is nostalgic that Ric hit Christian with a low blow and that he punted Christian last week, and that Edge stepped in the ring for the very last time at Backlash. Orton then calls the fire reignited in him to become "The Legend Killer" once again is him reigniting his legacy, and that he gets nothing but pleasure from it. Suddenly, Big Show shows up. Big Show says he will not let Flair glorify everything Orton did, and that Orton will pay for what he did to Edge and Christian. He says that Orton has been nothing more than "a narcissistic parasite" who will feed on anyone he feels will get him to the next level. He says that Orton latches on to performers who make him look better as he lacks what it takes to better himself, and that Orton only cares about getting what he wants and leaving the host to die. Big Show says that Edge is not done and that he will make Orton pay for what he has done, but he will not do it alone as he will break every bone in Orton's body. Orton says he knows he will not lay a hand on him or Flair, as he respects both of them and he took Big Show under his wing, and that Big Show is indeed a future Hall of Famer and legend. He did not expect to anger Big Show, but he says it would be tragic for him to share the same fate as Edge and Christian. This does not bother Big Show, who wants to fight Orton. Orton leaves, saying he is focused and motivated and that what happens next is on Big Show.
We look back on Razor Ramon and "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels' Ladder Matches from WrestleMania 10 and SummerSlam 1995, courtesy of Sonic.
Bayley and Sasha Banks retain the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against The IIconics (Billie Kay and Peyton Royce) with a Banks Statement to Peyton Royce. After the match, Sasha shows interesting in being a double champion, and tells Bayley she wants a title shot at Extreme Rules. Sasha then says she is challenging Asuka for the WWE Raw Women's Championship. Asuka shows up and tells Sasha she is not the boss of her, then says she accepts her challenge. Asuka is then attacked by Bayley and Sasha, and quickly falls victim to the Banks Statement.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Bobby Lashley, who says he should be WWE Championship but isn't because of R-Truth. MVP says that Lashley is "a man revitalized" and free of distractions, and says he could work wonders for Apollo Crews' career. He says that Crews does not understand the business side of being a champion, and says that under his learning tree, he could become one of the best United States Champions since himself, and if he makes the wrong decision, that is on him. MVP and Lashley then head towards the ring.
Backstage, Ruby Riott meets with Liv Morgan, who says that nothing has gone her way and that she does not feel like feeling worse than she already does.
It's time for The VIP Lounge. Tonight's guest is Apollo Crews. MVP tells Crews that he gained a lot of respect for him after beating him to get a shot at the WWE United States Championship, then realized that Crews needs someone to keep him from bad decisions after he blew out his knee. As MVP tries to persuade Crews to join him, Crews says he made it this far without help, and while he appreciates his offer, his answer is still no. MVP tells Crews he has the potential to be one of the best champions of all time, but not without him in his corner. Crews asks what MVP will do to make tonight's match harder for him, and says he has deal with people like him throughout his life and will not let the United States title change who he is. MVP mentions his 343-day reign, then warns Crews there won't be a third chance, and tells him that the United States title will come back home where it belongs before Shelton Benjamin shows up. As Shelton confronts Crews, MVP distracts Crews, allowing Benjamin to hit Crews with a cheap shot and throw him into the ring post. MVP warns Crews never to put himself in a two-on-one situation. He then tells him that this piece of advice is free, and that the next one is going to cost him.
Apollo Crews retains the WWE United States Championship against Shelton Benjamin. After the match, MVP tries to raise Crews' hand in victory on the ramp, and when Crews confronts him for it, he is put in the full nelson by Bobby Lashley.
Backstage, Rey Mysterio tells Dominick that they will show Seth Rollins how the Mysterio family rolls.
Rey Mysterio and Dominick show up. Rey says that one of the most terrifying things to happen to a parent is not being able to get a hold of one's child, and last week, Dominick scared him when he went to avenge what Seth Rollins did to him. He did not expect Dominick to get out of a three-on-one situation, but he did, and while he is proud of him, he is angry with him as he worried his family, and tells him that he will always be his child no matter what. Rey then says that since Dominick fought for him, he will fight for Dominick, and that he must get revenge against Rollins on his own. Dominick tells Rey he isn't going anywhere, and tells Rollins that this family is going to fight. Rollins shows up, and tells Rey and Dominick that if they want a fight, then they are putting him in a difficult position over who to destroy first. He then says this is fate, prophecy and destiny and that both men are at the same place at the same time. After saying two eyes are better than one, he slowly walks down the ramp, then kneels down at the bottom of it as Murphy and Austin Theory show up. Suddenly, Humberto Carrillo and Aleister Black attack Murphy and Theory and send them into the ring, and Dominick, Aleister and Carrillo make quick work of them. Rollins tries to talk his way out, but he is quickly overpowered. As Rey and Dominick take Rollins to the steel steps, Murphy and Theory are forced to attack everyone to save Rollins. Rollins tries to do to Dominick's eye what he did to Rey, but he and his disciples retreat after Aleister and Carrillo return with steel chairs.
Raw Talk: Rey Mysterio doesn't want Seth Rollins near his son Dominick.
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode highlighting the February 29, 2020 episode. Highlights and matches include:
Jai Vidal vs. Watts from February 29, 2020
Backstage, Jeff Reznick interviews Ray Rosas, Adrian Quest and Andy Brown. Rosas says they have been static for way too long, and now they have the power after winning the tag titles themselves. He says they will do what they want when they want and do it themselves.
The Wolf Zaddies (Che Cabrera and Bad Dude Tito) vs. The Friendship Farm ("Sweet" Robin Shaw and Super Beetle) from February 29, 2020, and Vermin's (Johnny Yuma and Kevin Martenson) post-match attack
Buddy Royal vs. Keita Murray
Gentleman Jervis vs. Lazarus
Backstage, Jeff Reznick interviews Halston Boddy, who tells Lacey Ryan to study Heather Monroe, as there will be a special stipulation waiting for her at the PP3 Cup Finals.
Adrian Quest and Andy Brown vs. Wasted Youth (Adriel Noctis and Sketch) from February 29, 2020
Oney Lorcan beats Chase Parker. After the match, Malcolm Biven shows up, then Ever-Rise (Chase Parker and Matt Martel) attacks Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch from behind. Bivens then sics Indus Sher (Rinku and Saurav) on Lorcan and Burch.
Jake Atlas beats "Gentleman" Jack Gallagher (who was released from the company three hours before the show aired due to sexual assault allegations laid against him) in his 205 Live debut.
Renee Young introduces "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for a championship celebration to start tonight's show. Styles says he is "an accolade machine" and that SmackDown is the house that he built, which is why he invited the locker room to ringside to tell them that ringside is as close as they will get to the Intercontinental Championship. He says that the Intercontinental Championship is vindication of everything that he has said and that the title is for those who want to work towards their success, then says there is one person qualified to award him the title: Daniel Bryan. Styles asks Daniel Bryan to get in the ring and award him the belt. Daniel gets in the ring and is initially reluctant to do so, but does it. Styles then demands Daniel congratulate him like a man, which he does. Daniel admits that they may disagree with a lot of things, but he respects Styles' ability in the ring and says he has the potential to be the greatest Intercontinental Champion if he shows up every week as a fighting champion. Styles says he is sorry he allowed Daniel to say anything and tells him to shut up, as they do not share the same vision and only people on his level get a shot at the title. He then says that Daniel is at the back of the list. Daniel then says he is okay with that, and that since Styles is about earning things, then he should defend the title against Drew Gulak, who beat him two weeks ago. Styles declines, saying his opponent must be #1 contender. Suddenly, Matt Riddle - fresh out of NXT - shows up, and Styles sees him as another person looking for a handout. Riddle tells Styles that he is "the bro who's gonna run the show," then Styles punches Riddle. Riddle soon fights back and sends Styles out of the ring, and an angry Styles demands a referee show up, starting a match.
Before the next match, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles declares that his match against Matt Riddle will not be for the WWE Intercontinental Championship.
Matt Riddle beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles after grabbing Styles out of the Phenomenal Forearm and hitting the Bro Derek in a match that sees Riddle have a verbal altercation with King Corbin and Styles shove Daniel Bryan at ringside.
Backstage, Renee Young interviews Jeff Hardy, who says it has been a roller coaster for him for the last two months and that he has been trying to turn his life around and do what is best for him and his family. He feels that as soon as he is about to turn a corner, he has to put out a fire only to have to put out another, and that Sheamus is a constant reminder of what he does not like about himself. He feels that while winning would have confirmed that he is turning things around, his loss to Sheamus makes him doubt himself, and he has to catch himself before negative thinking takes over. Jeff understands that he is an adrenaline junkie and an alcoholic, and says that Sheamus is just an obstacle on his path to redemption. Jeff also says he is not done yet.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Shorty G. As she does, Mojo Rawley shows up and mocks Shorty G behind his back. After Shorty G says he has eyes in the back of his head, he punches Mojo in the face.
Shorty G beats Mojo Rawley with an inside cradle.
It's time for Miz TV. Tonight's special guest is Mandy Rose. Miz admits he lost focus at Backlash, and John Morrison says it all happened because the rules were changed and that they were planning on being co-Universal Champions. They also mention that they were both looking over their shoulder for Otis, and Morrison says that if it were not for Otis, one of them would be champion right now. Miz then introduces Mandy Rose, who shows up. Mandy says that she and Sonya Deville were best friends for five years, but as soon as Miz and Morrison say that Mandy was a terrible friend, Mandy prepares to leave. Miz and Morrison then stop her and introduce Sonya. Mandy, having none of this, says that Sonya was the one who tried to sabotage her career and that she is done with her. Sonya says she wishes she could be done, but she watches Mandy get the spotlight and question what Mandy did to get it. Sonya then says that Mandy has not done anything with any opportunities given to her, then Mandy asks what Sonya wants, as Sonya can try to hurt her, but she has people who are by her side and that Otis has been loyal to her. Mandy then says that despite being a fighter, Sonya is alone, and asks how long she will hold on to petty resentments. Sonya says she is just confused as to what to do to get "The Mandy Rose treatment," and the only difference is Mandy's appearance. Sonya says that she is done and that she will tear her apart until her insides are just as hideous as her outer appearance. This starts a brawl, and Sonya gets out of the ring thanks to Miz and Morrison. Mandy then slaps Miz in the face and heads to the back.
Bayley and Sasha Banks guest on commentary for the next match.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) beat The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik). After the match, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura show up and attack The New Day. After the attack, Cesaro says he and Shinsuke Nakamura are tired of being overlooked.
Backstage, Alexa Bliss, Nikki, Lacey Evans, Tamina and Dana Brooke talks about Bayley and Sasha Banks. As Dana says that they all deserve a shot at Bayley, everyone wonders where Nikki Cross is.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Sheamus. Sheamus says he has realized that things have become serious between him and Jeff Hardy, then takes pride in being a bully and says that Jeff deserves to be bullied because he is weak and pathetic. He only regrets crushing his voice box so he would not have to hear him, and says that deep down, Jeff does not believe he is turning his life around and that he will raise Jeff up himself with a toast to Jeff Hardy next week.
Nikki Cross attacks Bayley and Sasha Banks at ringside. Alexa Bliss runs to ringside to hold Alexa Bliss back, then Nikki gets in the ring and demands a fight with Sasha Banks. Bayley accepts on Sasha's behalf.
Sasha Banks beats Nikki Cross following the double knees into a pinfall attempt.
WWE puts a spotlight on Titus O'Neil's community outreach as it is announced that O'Neil is a finalist for the 2020 ESPN Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award.
Next week: Drew Gulak vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for the WWE Intercontinental Championship! Sheamus presents a toast to Jeff Hardy!
It's time for Firefly Fun House. Bray talks about the things that he has done in the last few months - including learning to reanimate the dead and infiltrating a Reptilian stronghold - then Ramblin' Rabbit butts in and mentions Wyatt's loss to Braun Strowman. Bray admits that he lost to Strowman and that he went about everything the wrong way. As he explains himself, Strowman's entrance theme interrupts him. Strowman tells Bray he had his opportunity and failed, and that there are no more games and that their story is over. Bray laughs, and warns him that their story is just getting started. After some Wyatt Family imagery, we see the pre-Firefly Fun House Bray Wyatt, who says that in order to move forward, they must step back to where it all began. Bray says he created Strowman and that it is his duty to destroy him. He says that Strowman knows where to find him, and that all he has to do is follow the buzzards.
