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.
Dustin Starr interviews Big John Dalton and "The GunShow" Brett Michaels at the announce desk. Dalton says that for two weeks, he has had to sit with his father as his father was hurting. He then issues a challenge to Mike Anthony to a no count-out, no disqualification match. Dustin Starr and Brett Michaels both show concern, and Brett says from experience that Mike Anthony is on another level. Dalton insists on doing this, and says it will be him and Mike Anthony as soon as the bell rings. Brett Michaels says he will watch Big John Dalton's back from a distance, then says that regardless of whoever wins, Mike Anthony will have to watch his back, for he is coming for him.
Derrick King and Ray Ray Sanders beat The Hollywood Clique (Van Viciouss and "Casanova" Colton Cage) to become #1 contenders for the Memphis Wrestling Tag Team Championships after Colton Cage inadvertently punches out Van Viciouss with a punch meant for Derrick King after Derrick King ducks it, allowing Derrick King to hit the superkick for the win.
Dustin Starr interviews Martin and Jennifer Justice at the announce desk. Martin says he and Jennifer Justice have noticed that some people need some attitude adjustments, and from now on, they will be known as "The Re-Adjustments." He also says they are the best intergender tag team in Memphis Wrestling. Martin then calls out The Golden Savages (Cassandra Golden and Gio Savage), who show up. Martin challenges The Golden Savages to a mixed tag match, and Cassandra Golden says she and Gio never back down from a challenge. Martin then adds a stipulation, and demands Cassandra Golden defend the Memphis Women's Championship. Cassandra accepts.
The Golden Savages (Cassandra Golden and Gio Savage) beat Martin and Jennifer Justice in a mixed tag match. Cassandra Golden retains the Memphis Wrestling Women's Championship.
Dustin Starr interviews Mike Anthony at the announce desk. Mike Anthony says that he is 2022 and that he is 2023, then refuses to call Big John Dalton "big" because the word "big" has been thrown around way too much, especially when he put down Big Jack. Mike Anthony then brags about Dalton's father's blood being on his hand, then tells Dalton that he just signed his own death certificate before telling him that he accepts his challenge.
"Remarkable" Ryan Rembrandt beats Action Jackson. During the match, Rembrandt brings a chair into the ring, but the referee takes it away. As the referee removes the chair from the ring, Rembrandt hits Jackson with a low blow.
Backstage, "Coach" Justin Klein meets with Ray Collins. Klein says Collins has some natural talent, but not wins, and says he can offer him clout and confidence before giving him an offer to join The Hot Shots. Ray Collins asks what is in it for him, then Klein offers him a ride in a Hummer and not in Collins' Nissan Versa.
King Cobra guests on commentary for the next match.
Mike Anthony retains the Memphis Wrestling Heritage Championship against Big John Dalton in a no count-out, no disqualification match after putting Big John Dalton through a table. After the match, "The GunShow" Brett Michaels runs into the ring and checks on Big John Dalton alongside the referee.
Kip Sabian guests on commentary for the next match.
Orange Cassidy retains the AEW All-Atlantic Championship against Trent Beretta after Penelope Ford shows up and distracts Trent Beretta.
In backstage footage from after this week's Dynamite, Tony Schiavone interviews Darby Allin and Sting. Darby Allin says that when he wanted to become a professional wrestling, everyone doubted him and he listened to them. He then says he only listened to himself, then became TNT Champion only to lose it all. Allin then says that nobody believes in him, and asks Sting if he believes in him. Sting says that if he says no, he will be the man who doubted Allin, and that if he says yes, Allin will lose the chip on his shoulder. Sting tells Allin that he cannot lose the chip on his shoulder, for Samoa Joe is a killer, and that he needs to go out there and win his title back.
Kip Sabian beats Atiba with a mocking Orange Punch.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Preston Vance - who wants to be known as "Perro Peligroso" - and Jose the Assistant. Vance says he has no remorse from turning on The Dark Order, and says that if he knew it would have given the spotlight, he would have done it three years ago.
Tony Schiavone interviews Jon Moxley in the ring. Moxley says that in the first three years of AEW, two men stood up above everyone else and beat everyone except each other: himself and "Hangman" Adam Page. He says that he knew that a showdown was inevitable and that there was only be one top guy and one last man standing, and that it would be him. Moxley says he hit Page so hard he woke up in another dimension, and that Page woke up in a hospital while he slept like a baby, because The Blackpool Combat Club goes harder than anyone else. Moxley then says that Page is hurt, then says he has been hurt for ten years and that he has gotten over it because AEW is "the major leagues." He then says that if Page wants a match, then he can go see his doctors and that he will be there waiting for him. Moxley then says this is a tough business, and if Page makes it to January 11th, he will remind him and everyone how tough he is. Moxley then tells Page "Keep your hands up, bitch," then leaves.
We hear from Sonjay Dutt, Jay Lethal, Jeff Jarrett and Satnam Singh. Sonjay Dutt says they are tired of The Acclaimed's ("Platinum" Max Caster and Anthony Bowens) games, and Jay Lethal says they have been waiting for championship gold and that the time to wait is over. He says that The Acclaimed has pissed them off and that they are now fighting. Jarrett says he has been in the business for 36 years, and that there have been things he has said and done that he regrets. He then says Max Caster will regret that rap, and that he and Jay Lethal will not only end The Acclaimed's tag team title reign, but also their careers.
Jade Cargill retains the TBS Championship against Kiera Hogan despite Red Velvet working against Jade Cargill during the match.
We hear from Jamie Hayter, who says that her match with Hikaru Shida was a war and will dictate the pace of her matches going forward, then says that it does not matter who Saraya brings with her because she and Britt Baker are willing to go to war and she hits hard.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews "Smart" Mark Sterling, "The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese and "The Technical Beast" Josh Woods. Sterling says Bryan Danielson has gotten in his business for far too long. Nese then says that next week on Dynamite, he will challenge Danielson to a match and beat him in his hometown.
Mark Henry interviews Swerve Strickland, Parker Boudreaux, the tattooed associate, Wheeler Yuta, Jon Moxley and Claudio Castagnoli. Moxley says there will be no fear or pain in Wheeler Yuta's head and that he will destroy, then says there is nothing Swerve can dish out that already has been dished out. Swerve says that he wants to get gritty and violent just like Moxley and Yuta, and that in 2023, he and his associates will be the definition of violent. Wheeler Yuta says that he does not need two big tattooed men to back him up, and that they can go violent one-on-one.
Swerve Strickland beats Wheeler Yuta after Swerve traps the referee briefly in the corner after Yuta blocks the JML Driver, allowing Swerve to hit Yuta with a low blow before hitting the JML Driver for the win.
This week's episode is a complete recap episode. Matches from earlier in 2022:
Hit Row (Top Dolla and Ashante "Thee" Adonis) vs. The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships; SmackDown, December 24, 2022
Logan Paul vs. Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, Crown Jewel 2022
Raquel Rodriguez beating Sonya Deville and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler in the Gauntlet Match to determine a #1 contender for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship; December 24, 2022
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Oro Mensah. Mensah says Javier Bernal has been making a lot of noise. He says that Bernal has been running his mouth and that beating him would make him the most popular man in Orlando, and that he would rather do his talking in the ring.
Bronco Nima and Lucien Price beat Bryson Montana and Oba Femi.
Bray Wyatt heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Bray introduces himself to everyone and says that deep down, he does not think of himself as a good person even though he tries hard to be one, and when he looks back at the horrible things he has done to get here, he does not regret much. He then says that he did something that he regretted last week - attacking a cameraman in cold blood when he did not deserve it - but when he tries to apologize to the cameraman, L.A. Knight shows up. Knight says that Bray cannot keep his composure or even finish a sentence and that he attacked a cameraman. He says that Bray is "the responsible party" and that it is time to cash the check. L.A. Knight then says that Bray Wyatt used to be something and that he used to a force, but all he has proven is that he is "a broken down loser." He then says he has the medicine, and at Royal Rumble, he will put him out of his misery. Bray calls Knight "a little idiot" and asks him who he thinks he is talking to, then says he has been patient and knew that he could have ended this whenever he wanted. He then says it is time to remind everyone and him how cruel he can be when he feels like it. Bray Wyatt then accepts L.A. Knight's challenge. Afterwards, Uncle Howdy approaches the ring and takes off his hat, then enters the ring. He looks at L.A. Knight, then at Bray, then stands besides Bray. Uncle Howdy then hits Bray Wyatt with Sister Abigail, and L.A. Knight is left wondering what is going on. Howdy then leaves the ring, puts his hat back on, and walks away.
Backstage, Sami Zayn meets with Paul Heyman. Heyman says he and Roman Reigns have been talking about Sami's statement of loyalty as well as his words towards John Cena and Kevin Owens, and says that Roman is proud of him. After addressing that Roman has also mentioned the crowd cheering for Sami - and cautions Sami not to let the fans chant his name - Heyman then tells him that one stays three steps ahead at all times on the island of relevancy, then allows him to see Roman.
Solo Sikoa beats Sheamus after Jey Uso distracts the referee so that Jimmy Uso can pull Solo Sikoa to safety out of the Texas Cloverleaf before he and Jey brawl with Ridge Holland and Butch. Before the match begins, Don West's death is acknowledged on WWE programming by Michael Cole. After the match, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) and Solo Sikoa attack Sheamus, then Solo grabs a chair and wraps it around Sheamus' head. As he goes for the hip attack in the corner, Drew McIntyre shows up. McIntyre fends off Solo Sikoa and hits Jimmy Uso with the Claymore, then Jey pulls Jimmy to safety.
"Rowdy" Ronda Rousey retains the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship against Raquel Rodriguez following an arm bar from the middle rope after Baszler helds Ronda get a rope break. After the match, Charlotte Flair suddenly shows up for the first time in months. Ronda Rousey mocks Charlotte as she asks if she is challenging for Royal Rumble, but Charlotte says she is challenging her tonight. Ronda draps the title on the mat and tells Charlotte that she is lucky because she is feeling spicy, despite the protests from Baszler. This starts another championship match which ends in Charlotte countering the arm bar with a pinfall attempt to become WWE SmackDown Women's Champion and a 14-time women's champion in WWE.
Backstage, Sami Zayn and Roman Reigns talk about their holiday, then talk about their match before Sami asks Roman if the chants for him bother him. Roman says he is not bothered, and both he and Sami agree tonight will be a great night.
We see footage of Dominik Mysterio and Rhea Ripley showing up at Rey Mysterio's parents house on Christmas only for Dominik to get arrested.
Backstage, everyone makes light of Top Dolla's botched dive over the top rope from last week. When Ricochet says that Top Dolla has learned that it is not as easy as he makes it, Top Dolla shoves Ricochet with authority.
It is announced that Bray Wyatt vs. L.A. Knight will be in the "MTN DEW Pitch Black" Match at Royal Rumble.
Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) head to the ring. After the commercial break, Kaiser says that 2022 was the year of The Ring General, and Vinci says Gunther has become the most dominant Intercontinental Champion in history and that nobody will take the title away from him. We then see a video package of all the challengers that Gunther has turned away, then Braun Strowman shows up. Strowman mentions that Gunther did not put him in his video and says that he did not beat him, and says that while there may not be a man who can beat him, but he is a monster. Imperium brush him off, then Strowman says that he is telling him he is taking him on for the title and not asking him for turning Gunther around and fending off all of Imperium. As Strowman charges through everyone on the outside, Gunther sidesteps Strowman, sending him through the timekeeper's area barricade so he can hit him with a chair. Gunther then proceeds to punish Strowman in the ring, and officials have to run into the ring to stop Gunther. Ricochet then runs into the ring with a chair to make the save for Strowman (with the chair glancing off Gunther in the process).
Kevin Owens and John Cena beat Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn.
This week on The SmackDown LowDown: Drew McIntyre! Tegan Nox! Ricochet! During Tegan Nox's interview, Xia Li shows up and tells Tegan Nox she can beat her anytime, anywhere.
Yuya Uemura and Delirious beat John Skyler and Jason Hotch - now known as "The Good Hands" - in the BTI match.
Tom Hannifan and "The Drama King" Matthew Rehwoldt look back on the best of 2022. Matches and moments include:
W. Morrissey vs. Matt Cardona vs. Moose for the Impact Wrestling World Championship, Hard To Kill 2022
"The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo vs. Mickie James in a Texas Death Match for the Impact Wrestling World Knockouts Championship, Hard To Kill 2022
We hear from Jordynne Grace, who is 2022 Knockout of the Year. Jordynne says nothing beats hard work and that the fans recognize this, and she is happy to keep working hard into the new year.
2022 Moment of the Year: "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander vs. Moose for the Impact Wrestling World Championship, Rebellion 2022
We hear from "Speedball" Mike Bailey, who is 2022 X Division Star of the Year. Bailey thanks the fans for voting for and supporting him, then says he is super grateful for this honor and that he hopes that he and the fans can work together to make the next year even better.
We hear from Kenny King, who congratulates "Speedball" Mike Bailey on winning X Division Star of the Year, then wants to know what kind of man Bailey really is and that he wants to get to know the real Bailey by meeting him at his home.
"Speedball" Mike Bailey vs. Alex Zayne vs. Andrew Everett vs. Kenny King vs. Trey Miguel vs. "Inevitable" Ace Austin in an Ultimate X Match for the Impact Wrestling X Division Championship, Slammiversary 2022
We hear from The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley), the 2022 Men's Tag Team of the Year. Alex Shelley thanks the fans.
The Impact Originals (Alex Shelley, Chris Sabin, Davey Richards, Frankie Kazarian, Nick Aldis) vs. Honor No More (Eddie Edwards, Matt Taven, Mike Bennett, PCO, Vincent), Slammiversary 2022
We hear from Joe Hendry, who says that he inspires, yet he has inspired people to come after him for the Digital Media Championship. He says he is not hard to find, and he challenges Moose to a Digital Media Championship match at Hard To Kill.
We hear from The Death Dollz (Rosemary, Taya Valkyrie, Jessicka), the 2022 Knockts Tag Team of the Year. Taya Valkyrie thanks the fans for voting for and supporting them, and says that she looks forward to 2023.
We hear from Bhupinder Gujjar, voted The One To Watch in 2023. He says that he has worked hard to get to this moment, then says that 2023 will be his year before thanking the fans for their love and support.
Bhupinder Gujjar vs. Brian Myers in a Ladder Match for the Impact Wrestling Digital Media Championship, Impact Wrestling from September 22, 2022
We hear from Anthony Greene, who says that after ten years of traveling the world for the perfect destination, "X marks the spot." He says he is the man with the high wrestling IQ, and next week, he will show that "The Alternative" is the best thing in wrestling.
We hear from Decay (Crazzy Steve and Black Taurus). Crazzy Steve says that Trey Miguel should have realized that he crossed a line, and while he understands why Trey did what he did, his actions have consequences, and those consequences will lead to Black Taurus becoming X Division Champion.
We hear from "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander, the 2022 Male Wrestler of the Year. Alexanders thanks the fans for voting him for this honor for a second year as well as voting for him for 2022 Moment of the Year, and hopes that he can win the award again in 2023.
Eddie Edwards vs. "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander for the Impact Wrestling World Championship, Bound For Glory 2022
Match of the Year 2022: "Speedball" Mike Bailey vs. "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander for the Impact Wrestling World Championship, Impact Wrestling from December 8, 2022
Before the next match, Hathaway shows up wearing a hat and angry at "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson for making fun of his bald head. Also, MJF is in the skybox with a beautiful woman, and he taunts Danielson before the match, allowing Ethan Page to hit Danielson with a cheap shot.
"The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson beats "All Ego" Ethan Page after kicking his head in prior to a submission, knocking Ethan Page out.
We see a video package for Samoa Joe vs. Wardlow for later tonight. Afterwards, Renee Paquette interviews Wardlow, who says that there has been too many words and that tonight is about powerful action before Wardlow attacks him with a pipe.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews "Hangman" Adam Page, who says that there is no real update on his condition, but he finds out that he is doing well and that he may come back in two weeks if he does not get riled up by Jon Moxley again.
The Blackpool Combat Club (Jon Moxley and Claudio Castagnoli) beat Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin).
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Kip Sabian, Penelope Ford and Best Friends (Orange Cassidy, Chuck Taylor, Trent Beretta, Danhausen). Kip Sabian says this has been going on for too long and that the final act where he takes the All-Atlantic Championship from Orange Cassidy. Trent Beretta reminds Kip Sabian that he eliminated him after Kip eliminated Orange Cassidy in last Friday's battle royale and that he is more deserving of a title shot, and Orange Cassidy agrees and gives him the title shot. Kip Sabian reluctantly says he looks forward to seeing it before leaving with Penelope, then Orange says the title match will happen on Rampage.
Hook quickly beats Baylum Lynx with Redrum. After the match, Stokely Hathaway shows up with Big Bill and Lee Moriarty and says that while he is repeatedly told Hook is a badass, he will not get the job done against them, as he is like "the Southwest of AEW." Before the three of them can get in the ring, "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry runs out and fights Lee Moriarty while Big Bill and Hook stare down in the ring. Big Bill goes for a choke slam, but Jungle Boy hits him with a 2x4 after taking Moriarty down. Big Bill is forced to retreat along with Moriarty and Hathaway.
We see a video package chronicling what has happened to Chris Jericho in the last few weeks. We then hear from Chris Jericho, who says "Absolute" Ricky Starts turned out the opportunity of a lifetime to join The Jericho Appreciation Society and mocked them instead, then calls him foolish, small-minded and a flash in the pan. He says Starks has the arrogance and the confidence of a superstar, but he does not have the tools to succeed that he does. He says that he will take Starks to the top of the mountain to the bottom of the ocean and back because he is Chris Jericho and he always wins. He brags about throwing a fireball at Action Andretti and tells Andretti to get out of AEW and back to the indies before saying he will beat Starks and put an end to "the Starks experiment."
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Swerve Strickland, Parker Bordreaux and his tattooed affilitate. Swerve says Keith Lee had to go, then Wheeler Yuta shows up and challenges Swerve to a match on Rampage after criticizing him for having to get some outside help to make a point.
The Elite (Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson) and Death Triangle (PAC, Penta el Zero M, Rey Fenix) are seen attacking each other backstage prior to their Falls Count Anywhere match. Don Callis guests on commentary for the next match.
The Elite (Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson) beat Death Triangle (PAC, Penta el Zero M, Rey Fenix) in a Falls Count Anywhere Match in Match 6 of their best-of-seven series after Omega hits Fenix with a One-Winged Angel through a table as PAC has Nick Jackson in the Brutalizer and gets the pinfall victory before PAC can win by submission. Both teams are tied at three wins (3-3) apiece.
We see a music video from The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster and Anthony Bowens) where they diss Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett.
Tay Melo and Anna Jay A.S. beat Ruby Soho and Willow Nightingale after the referee is preoccupied with keeping Anna Jay from using a chair on the outside, allowing Tay Melo to kick a chair into Ruby Soho's head for the win.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews The Gunns (Austin and Colten Gunn), who have reservations for a party. Colten says they will address their big win against FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) next week.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews "Absolute" Ricky Starks. Starks says he is feeling better than Action Andretti, who is the victim of a fireball to the face, and says he will get some revenge for him next week. He says that Chris Jericho is right about him being a star, but he is a star Jericho cannot control and that Jericho does not like that. He says he will beat Jericho and take him down several notches.
Before the next match, Samoa Joe says Wardlow is suffering from stage fright and will not be out here right now before Wardlow shows up with a limp while medical staff and officials tell him not to wrestle. Wardlow gets in the ring and wrestles anyway.
Samoa Joe retains the TNT Championship against Wardlow with the rear naked choke after Wardlow's left knee gives out before he can powerbomb Joe. After the match, Wardlow gets back on his feet, but Joe blasts him with the TNT Championship before looking underneath the ring, pulling out a toolbox and finding a pair of scissors. Joe shoves referee Paul Turner down before cutting Wardlow's bun and claims it as a trophy, then Darby Allin shows up from behind Joe and smacks him with a skateboard. Joe and Darby stare each other down from both sides of the ring as the show ends.
Backstage, The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) get focused back on in-ring action, while JD McDonagh says he will give Julius Creed a gift in the form of a loss tonight.
Julius Creed beats JD McDonagh after avoiding a top rope moonsault. After the match, Indus Sher (Veer Mahaan and Sanga) show up. Sanga says The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) have proven themselves, and Veer Mahaan says they will finally face off in two weeks at New Year's Evil and get the respect they deserve by beating The Creed Brothers.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo. D'Angelo says he will end this year with his first title after what has happened between him and Wes Lee, and Stacks says that Dijak will not be an issue tonight.
We hear from The Schism (Joe Gacy, Rip Fowler, Jagger Reid, Ava Raine). Gacy says he has heard their lifestyle has been intimidating to everyone in 2022 and that everyone who has opposed them has not been treated favorably. Rip Fowler, Jagger Reid and Ava Raine say that Malik Blade, Edris Enofe and Odyssey Jones' look for short-term thrills lead to long-term insecurities. Rip Taylor say they were masks of fake happiness and that they cannot live happily and multiply, and Gacy says that The Schism's bonds are what allows The Schism to be successful.
Wendy Choo beats Cora Jade.
Backstage, we hear from Ikemen Jiro, who says his jacket is part of who he is and that it is what makes him number one, and without it, he is just Jiro. He says the jacket is what makes people smile more, and he will beat Scrypts tonight and take his jacket back.
Backstage, Josh Briggs gets Fallon Henley focused on her match for the bar with Kiana James tonight. Meanwhile, Brooks Jensen is more focused on his shirt, and does not mention Fallon by name when Briggs asks Jensen whose side he is on.
Scrypts beats Ikemen Jiro. After the match, Scrypts drapes Jiro's jacket on top of a downed Jiro and leaves.
We hear from Oro Mensah, who says that he is in the middle of the action and that night life heightens one's senses. He says that when the music is right, it is all about the moment, and he is bringing that moment to NXT.
Lyra Valkyria is next!
We hear from Alba Fyre, who says that Isla Dawn's mystical darkness has pushed her to her breaking point and that she has awakened a deeper fire inside her soul. She says that the fire of her ancestors is stronger than the darkness of Isla Dawn's spirits, and next week, anything goes, and she will end this feud and end Isla Dawn as well.
Lyra Valkyria beats Lash Legend.
We hear from Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne. Gigi says that this year has been Toxic Attraction's (Mandy Rose, Gigi Dolin, Jacy Jayne), and Jacy Jayne says that even at their lowest point, everyone's eyes have not shifted away from them. Gigi says that they were created by doubt and that they have built their success off the back of the non-believers, and Jacy says they will rebuild and regroup by taking down the woman who took down their empire. (Mandy Rose is not seen or even mentioned once during this promo.)
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Bron Breakker. Bron admits he fell into Grayson Waller's trap, and while he is all better now, he is not in the mood for games and he will be calling him out tonight. After McKenzie tells him that Grayson is not here tonight, she shows him a video message from Grayson Waller. Grayson says that while Bron is big and strong, he is smarter, and that he is home in Australia getting ready for his match with Bron. Grayson brags about being in Sydney Harbor and being at the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach, then says he is taking care of his body and his mind before taking Bron Breakker's title. He says that while Australia is home, he is bigger than Australia, and that he had to leave Australia to be even bigger. He then says he will be there for the contract signing on a special edition of The Grayson Waller Effect. Bron Breakker responds by throwing the TV into the lockers and leaving with the NXT Championship.
The Schism (Joe Gacy, Rip Fowler, Jagger Reid) beat Malik Blade, Edris Enofe and Odyssey Jones in a six-man tag match.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams. Trick Williams says that while Axiom is good, he cannot "whoop that trick." Carmelo says he will be NXT Champion in 2023, but Apollo Crews is standing in his way, and he has no problem getting him out of his way.
Fallon Henley beats Kiana James to regain control of her family's bar.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Roxanne Perez. Roxanne says being NXT Women's Champion is a dream she does not want to wake up from, but the honeymoon phase will wear off soon and she needs to be on point in order to defend her title. She says that all the past champions are Hall of Fame material while she is not even close, and that she does not take being champion lightly. Roxanne then says she will do everything she can to defend the championship.
We hear from Isla Dawn, who says that she is having fun with Alba Fyre and that she knows the evil in inside of her and is dragging it to the surface. She says an extreme resolution will happen when they face off next week.
Drew Gulak and Hank Walker are in the ring for The Drew Gulak Invitational. Hank Walker heads to the corner to Drew Gulak as he tells him that he will meet all sorts of opponents, then calls forward a newcomer named Lucah. Drew Gulak exhibits a chickenwing on Lucah, who taps out as soon as Drew lays on the hold. Gulak says a hold should be released as soon as the opponent taps, then brings forward Tavion Heights. Tavion and Gulak exhibit some amateur wrestling and how he can take control, and puts him in a leg bar. Tavion taps, and Gulak releases. Gulak then brings forward Myles Borne, then the two of them lock up. Myles gets behind Gulak, and as they go back and forth, Gulak eventually gets behind him and puts him in a sleeper, and Hank Walker has to remind him to let go when Myles taps. Shortly after this, Charlie Dempsey shows up and tells Gulak that if he wants to step up to a real wrestler, he can give him a run for his money. Hank Walker holds Gulak back before Dempsey says he will make an example out of Hank next week. Gulak says Hank will be ready.
Wes Lee retains the NXT North American Championship after Dijak shows up and holds Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo hostage, distracting D'Angelo in the process.
Angelico beats Dante Casanova with the Navarro Death Roll.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Brock and Arn Anderson. Brock Anderson says that he and Arn Anderson have been backed against a corner by The Jericho Appreciation Society, but now, he fights his way out of that corner starting tonight against "Daddy Magic" Matt Menard. Arn Anderson says it has been the Anderson against the world and that they have hurt people and done bad things in the last 40 years, and that . He also tells Brock that he is ready to dump him out of the nest and give him a chance to show who he is and kick Matt Menard's ass.
The Workhorsemen (J.D. Drake and Anthony Henry) beat The Hughes Brothers (Terrence and Terell Hughes).
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews "Daddy Magic" Matt Menard. Menard says The Jericho Appreciation Society is like an itch he loves to scratch, and he is scratching alone against Brock Anderson. He says that Arn Anderson leaving Brock Anderson to fight on his own makes his nipples hard.
Before the next match, Fuego del Sol says everyone will be elated and captivated, mesmerized and hyptonized by "The Fuego Experience" and that his opponent will be hearing everyone chant for him all match long.
Fuego del Sol beats Lucky Ali.
"Daddy Magic" Matt Menard beats Brock Anderson after ripping the cover off of a top turnbuckle and later sending Anderson head-first into it.
Evil Uno beats Blake Li.
Red Velvet beats Billie Starkz.
The Iron Savages (Boulder and Bronson) beat Brandon Bullock and Jameson Ryan.
We see The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) enter a blank, white room. Montez Ford is initially disappointed, but Angelo Dawkins uses his mind to make some footage of them appear in the walls behind them. We then find out that this week's episode is a clip show of the best of 2022, then Corey Graves and Jackie Redmond host the show. Matches and moments for this year include:
Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns in a Last Man Standing Match for the Undisputed WWE Championship at SummerSlam 2022
John Cena's 20th anniversary return; June 27, 2022 episode of Raw
Kevin Owens vs. Steve Austin from WrestleMania 38
Sami Zayn vs. Johnny Knoxville from WrestleMania 38
We hear from Sami Zayn, who is flabbergasted that his match with Johnny Knoxville has been shown and that while he is disappointed, it is fine, as it is the holidays and nobody can talk about the best of 2022 without talking about The Bloodline.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods). Woods compliments Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) on their talent and bringing the battle, and that it is great to hold the NXT Tag Team Championships. Kofi Kingston says it is great to be part of a small group of people who have held all three tag team titles. Woods then talks about the formation of The New Day (Kofi, Woods, Big E), and Kofi Kingston talks about their history with The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) and what The New Day is all about.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) vs. The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships; November 11, 2022 episode of SmackDown
Bianca Belair talks about the holiday celebrations over in her and Montez Ford's household and her feud with Becky Lynch.
Becky Lynch vs. Bianca Belair for the WWE Raw Women's Championship at WrestleMania 38
Sheamus vs. Gunther for the WWE Intercontinental Championship at Clash at the Castle
Jackie Redmond interviews Sheamus, who talks about his holiday celebration plans, his relationship with Ridge Holland and Butch and their fighting style.
The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Ridge Holland, Butch) vs. Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) in a Good Old Fashioned Donnybrook Match at Extreme Rules 2022
We hear from Sami Zayn, who puts The Bloodline on a pedestal and talks about their dominance throughout the year - and shows off the first edition of the Bloodline Dictionary - before talking about The Bloodline's WarGames Match. Sami then says that The Bloodline's dominance in 2022 is just a small taste of what will happen in 2023.
Drew McIntyre vs. Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship at Clash at the Castle
Jackie Redmond and Corey Graves interview Drew McIntyre about his holiday plans, his match at Clash at the Castle, his wishes for another premium live event in Europe and a potential match with Gunther.
We see a video package of Karrion Kross' return and his feud with Drew McIntyre.
We look back at the many Superstar returns in 2022.
Jackie Redmond and Corey Graves interview "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes about his return, his series of matches with Seth "Freakin'" Rollins, his match at Hell in a Cell 2022, and his injury in that match and how he fought throughout it.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Seth "Freakin'" Rollins in a Hell In A Cell Match at Hell In A Cell 2022
We look back on Liv Morgan's Money In The Bank Ladder Match victory and her successful cash-in for the WWE Smackdown Women's Championship.
Jackie Redmond and Corey Graves interview Liv Morgan about Money In The Bank 2022 and her championship match with "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey.
"Rowdy" Ronda Rousey vs. Liv Morgan in an Extreme Rules Match for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at Extreme Rules 2022
We look back on The Judgment Day's (Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley) betrayal of Edge and the addition of Dominik Mysterio into their ranks.
We look back at the feud between Seth "Freakin'" Rollins, Austin Theory and Bobby Lashley.
Logan Paul vs. Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Crown Jewel 2022
"The Native Beast" Nyla Rose and "The Problem" Marina Shafir beat Leva Bates and Karizma via submission from Shafir to Karizma.
Julia Hart beats Promise Braxton with Hartless.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Vickie Guerrero, "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose and "The Problem" Marina Shafir. Vickie says she should be managing champions, but they have nothing, and she feels disrespected and that nothing is working anymore.
The Bunny beats Madison Rayne. After the match, The Bunny and Penelope Ford attack Madison Rayne, but they get out of the ring when Skye Blue runs in to make the save.
We hear from "All Ego" Ethan Page, who brings out Matt Hardy and Isiah Kassidy before he announces that they have the night off for Boxing Day. Matt and Isiah are not happy to have been brought here just to be told that, and Page says that with Marq Quen out for a while, the two of them will be a tag team. He takes credit for last week's win as well as their potential future wins, then leaves. Matt Hardy then pulls a burgundy robe - a reference to his his "Broken" gimmick - out from his briefcase and says "I can't take this shit much longer."
Konosuke Takeshita beats Frankie Kazarian. After the match, Takeshita bows to Kazarian in a sign of respect, then both men shake hands
Willow Nightingale and Ruby Soho beat Vertvixen and Madi Wrenkowski.
Athena retains the Ring of Honor Women's World Championship against Kiera Hogan.
We hear from Danny Limelight. He says he has been with UWN for seven years and has been bred and groomed here, and that he learned everything from those before him there after a long journey from New York to California. He talks about his career and especially the last couple of years where he, Papo Esco and Slice Boogie were claiming championships while he took on and defeated top talent to get to "The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater. He says Clearwater was born to be successful while he did not get that same silver spoon, and while Clearwater has beaten top opponent after top opponent, he has not beaten him. Limelight says he is championship material and that it is his time, and when he is done with Clearwater, he will become United World Champion, and that he will have done it for his people and his family while giving Clearwater a reality check.
Backstage, Jack Farmer interviews "The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater, who calls Danny Limelight's story "cute" and that he is a professional and not "a criminal in a jumpsuit," and that he signed the contract for today's main event because he is a fighting world champion. He says that Danny Limelight will be on his back looking up at the lights while he stays United World Champion.
We see a video package chronicling the feud between Danny Limelight and "The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater.
Before the next match, actor Angelo Pagan performs a musical number before introducing Danny Limelight. Jordan Clearwater also berates ring announcer Adnan Kureishy and the fans before demanding silence while he takes his robe off and shows what a champion looks like.
Danny Limelight beats "The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater with the sleeper to become the United World Champion after "King Fatboy" Papo Esco and Slice Boogie take Talos out of the equation, the ref is taken down inadvertently by a Midas Touch and a frustrated Clearwater shoves Johnny Loquasto when Loquasto keeps him from using the United World Champion as a weapon. After the match, "King FatBoy" Papo Esco and Slice Boogie celebrate with Limelight. After the match, "King FatBoy" Papo Esco and Slice Boogie celebrate with Limelight. Limelight then addresses the crowd and says that seven years ago, when every other companies shut the doors on him, United Wrestling Network gave him a chance. He says he was a street rat kid with no future, but he had ambition and passion, and knew everyone else would look stupid one from. He then says that he is opening the doors to anyone who wants to face him, then announces that he will defend against Eddie Kingston at Red Carpet Rumble on January 14th.
Reverend Ash Taylor heads to a podium between the announce desk and the ring to hold a sermon. Before talking about the holiday, he talks about the disrespect he received at Starrs of Tomorrow. He says he expected more from the fans, but instead, he received garbage and trash. Nevertheless, he has decided to forgive the fans before leading them in prayer, then Tommy Dreamer shows up. Taylor takes exception to this, and says he is "a sinner" and "a no-good" heathen while poking his chest after saying that he has followed Dreamer's career. Dreamer tries to talk some sense into Taylor, then punches him in the face, sends him into the ring post, hits him with a trash can and chops him in the chest. He then grabs him by the scarf and throws him into the wall, then tells Taylor that when he insults the great people of Memphis, he has to come out here, as he grew up watching Memphis wrestling. Dreamer then praises not only the Lord, but also the world of professional wrestling and the fact that he helped sell out another house in the city before welcoming everyone to the show. Dreamer then offers to be in the main event, to which Dustin Starr agrees, then says it is a pleasure to see everyone in Memphis except for Reverend Ash Taylor.
"The GunShow" Brett Michaels beats Jason Genesis despite the distractions and interference from Goddess. After the match, Dustin Starr interviews Brett Michaels at the announce desk. Michaels says he has done his part and signed the contract, and sooner or later, Mike Anthony will sign it and get the GunShow.
Dustin Starr interviews "The Problem Child" Aaron Roberts and Justin Case at the announce desk. Justin Case says it started when Aaron Roberts and Zay Washington was a tag team, which did not sit well with Roberts. Justin Case then says that when he came along, it was not about the wins and losses, but about respect, and after taking Washington's title and hair, they now want Zay Washington's dignity in a hair vs. hair match. Aaron Roberts says he has not forgotten about Tim Bosby, as he has benefitted from his and Justin Case's actions, then says he can either hand him the Internet Championship that he says he is too big for, or he can take it from him.
"The Problem Child" Aaron Roberts vs. Tim Bosby ends in a no-contest after Zay Washington rushes into the ring and takes out Roberts before he can hit Bosby with the Problem Bomb. Afterwards, Zay Washington says they can have the hair vs. hair match right now, but Justin Case and Aaron Roberts retreat.
Dustin Starr interviews Ray Ray Sanders and Derrick King at the announce desk. After Derrick King wishes everyone a happy holidays, Santa Claus shows up and gifts Ray Ray Sanders and Derrick King with the Memphis Trios Championship rings, with the third going to Big John Dalton. Derrick King and Ray Ray Sanders are both glad to have the championship rings.
We hear from The Hollywood Clique. "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock tells Van Viciouss and Colton Cage to win the #1 contender's match and beat Ray Ray Sanders and Derrick King, and Colton Cage that he and Van Viciouss will take it one step further and win at Grind City Rumble.
We hear from The Posse (Simon and Mr. Chris), who asks the fans if they thought they would get through Christmas without them, then bring out Santa Claus and say that they have taken care of his presents and that they will take care of him.
Dustin Starr interviews Brad Skimahorn at the announce desk. Brad Skimahorn says he beat Uncle Mikey last week, then says he disagrees with Tommy Dreamer and says the Memphis fans are disrespectful because they chant for Mikey and not him. He says there is no making up between him and Uncle Mikey when he beat Mikey and proved he is main event material, and says that he will beat Tommy Dreamer in the main event today.
Tommy Dreamer beats Brad Skimahorn in a hardcore Christmas match with help from Uncle Mikey. Dreamer beats Brad Skimahorn by hitting the Dreamer Driver into a barbed wire Christmas tree. Marty Elias is the referee for this match.
Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) and AR Fox last eliminate Claudio Castagnoli to win the $300,000 Three Kings Trios Holiday Battle Royale.
Eddie Kingston and Ortiz head to the ring. Eddie says that they have been seeing The House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, Buddy Matthews) beating people up and mentions them laying out Ortiz, then says that he wants to fight them right now before calling them out. The House of Black appear on the video screen. Malakai Black says "all in due time," then says that if the enemy of his enemy is his friend, and the friend of his enemy is influenced by him, would he be his enemy, too. Eddie Kingston and Ortiz try to figure out what Malakai Black meant by that, and are confused.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Daniel Garcia and Sammy Guevara. Daniel Garcia admits he does not like Sammy Guevara, but if Chris Jericho wants them to be together, he will make an effort. Sammy Guevara calls Daniel Garcia "a professional tight-ass" and hugs him, and tells him that as the new year approaches, they will do great things.
Jade Cargill beats Vertvixen in a TBS Championship Eliminator Match and goes 45-0.
We hear from Ruby Soho, who says that she beat Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., but Anna Jay attacked her as she had her moment. Ruby then says that she has some back-up in the form on Willow Nightingale.
We hear from Wardlow, who says that he finds it funny that Samoa Joe calls himself a king when he did not even beat him to take his crown. He then says that next week, the games come to an end.
Backstage, Powerhouse Hobbs is seen pressing someone against a wall.
Mark Henry interviews "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn, Anthony Bowens, "Platinum" Max Caster, Jeff Jarrett, Jay Lethal, Sonjay Dutt and Satnam Singh. Sonjay Dutt says that Jeff Jarrett and Jeff Jarrett will take Anthony Bowens and Billy Gunn out. Jay Lethal says they will prove they are the better wrestlers, but Billy Gunn says he knows the game Jarrett plays, and Anthony Bowens says they will kick their asses all over Texas.
Jeff Jarrett and Jay Lethal beat Anthony Bowens and "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn after Sonjay Dutt hits Billy Gunn with a low blow behind the referee's back.
We see a video package for Axiom, who debuts on Main Event tonight.
Backstage, Axiom is met by Mustafa Ali, who accuses Axiom of disrespecting him before telling him he was just joking. Axiom tells Mustafa he has nothing but respect for him, then offers to shake his hand. Mustafa tells Axiom he will shake his hand in the ring, but he will have to earn his respect.
Mustafa Ali beats Axiom. After the match, Mustafa raises Axiom's hand in a sign of respect.
Charlie Demspey (whose name is spelled "Charlie Dempsy" on the chyron) beats Myles Borne.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Kelly Kincaid interviews Dani Palmer. Dani says being in WWE is an absolute dream, especially after coming from a small town with an acrobatics background. She feels that everything before she came to WWE has prepared her for this moment, and she cannot wait to prove herself on LVL Up.
Sol Ruca beats Dani Palmer with the flipping cutter from the corner from her last match in LVL UP, which is now known as the "Sol Snatcher."
The Bloodline head to the ring to start the show. Paul Heyman declares that The Bloodline will have two big weeks back-to-back after The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) retain the undisputed tag team titles before Solo Sikoa takes out Sheamus and Roman Reigns and Sami Zayn smash Kevin Owens and John Cena. Roman Reigns says that there is money to be made in smashing Owens and Cena because smashing people is what he does, then says he wonders what Sami Zayn is going to do as he looks frustrated. Sami says he always wanted a little respect, and that he found that - and family - in The Bloodline, and now everyone loves him. He says this should put him on top of the world, but he has a black cloud over his head and it is Kevin Owens. He says that his moment last week was ruined by Owens' existence and the fact that his name is connected to his, and says that Owens has a problem with him. He also says Owens is trying to bring John Cena back to upstage The Bloodline, but The Bloodline is the show. Sami Zayn says The Bloodline will rip John Cena and Kevin Owens apart, for when they step up, they get smashed, and they will acknowledge the Tribal Chief.
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) retain the WWE Undisputed Tag Team Championships against Hit Row (Top Dolla and Ashante "Thee" Adonis).
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci. Kaiser says their match is an abomination and a mockery of what they do, and Vinci says Braun Strowman and Ricochet are rejects and freaks who belong in a circus. Kaiser says that tonight, they will bring honor back to the ring and what they do.
Raquel Rodriguez beats Emma, Tegan Nox, Xia Li, Liv Morgan and Sonya Deville in a gauntlet match despite an injured left arm to become #1 contender for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship. After the match, Ronda Rousey tells Raquel to wipe the smile off her face, as she still has one more opponent: Shayna Baszler, who goes after Raquel's left arm, tearing off the cast and stomping the injured arm. Raquel rolls Shayna up with a schoolkid pin, and she manages to beat Shayna and survive.
Bray Wyatt heads to the ring. Bray says that heading to the ring to speak to the fans is the hardest thing in the world for him to do, and that he will never truly understand why people are excited to see him, as he presents his truest self to the fans. He says that L.A. Knight owes him an apology and that nobody, including L.A. Knight, listened to him. Bray says he is not and never was Uncle Howdy, then loses his train of thought and crouches in the middle of the ring before dropping the microphone. He then attacks a cameraman who gets in the ring, and Adam Pearce and officials have to get the cameraman away from Bray.
Rey Mysterio beats Angel Garza as Karrion Kross and Scarlett watch from the crowd.
Backstage, we hear from Ricochet and Braun Strowman. Ricochet says Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci do nothing but talk, and after Ricochet mentions how they said they belong in a circus, Strowman says "Maybe we do," then says they will show who runs the big top.
Backstage, Karrion Kross and Scarlett are confronted by Emma. Emma confronts them for disrespecting Rey Mysterio, then slaps Emma for calling Riddick Moss a fool. Kross stops Scarlett, then tells Emma she has no idea what she has just done.
We see a video package of John Cena's 20-year career in the ring and on the screen.
We see another vignette of Lacey Evans, who is in combat training with other Marines. It is then announced that she is in action next week.
Ricochet and Braun Strowman beat Imperium (Ludwig Kaiser and Braun Strowman) in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight that sees The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) kick Imperium in the crotch while dressed as nutcrackers, a ballerina in a box that dances away and Strowman reviving Ricochet with a kiss under the mistletoe by ring announcer Samantha Irvin.
Taylor Wilde - now with a new look and entrance theme - beats KiLynn King in the BTI Match.
The Death Dollz (Rosemary and Jessicka Havok) retain the Impact Wrestling Knockouts World Tag Team Championships against "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo and "The Quintessential Diva" Gisele Shaw.
Backstage, Jordynne Grace gets suited up for her match when she is met by Mickie James, who tells her that Jordynne Grace that Tasha Steelz is hers. Jordynne says she wants her to beat Tasha and that she will be make sure the job gets done.
Backstage, "The Quintessential Diva" Gisele Shaw and "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo run into each other and immediately vow never to team up again.
Sami Callihan heads to the ring. Callihan thought that when he took care of Eric Young, his problems with Violent By Design (Eric Young, Deaner, Angels, Kon) would be done, but three heads grew where the one head was and he got his ass beat, and he is sick of it. He says that he is not one to run away from his issues, then calls out The Design (Deaner, Angels, Kon), who show up. Deaner says people think Callihan might be brave calling The Design out on his own, but he knows the truth and that Callihan is sick, not brave, and the sickness he has is simple, for every time he gets in the ring, he sacrifices himself. He says that Callihan mutilates himself for the love of the people, but the people do not care and will never care about Callihan, and until he realizes that, the poison of the sickness will continue to flow through his body. Deaner then says he has the antidote to his sickness, and that the antidote is violence. As The Design surround the ring, Callihan says he is not here to fight them, but Deaner says The Design does not do truces and it will not end well for him. Callihan says he wants to join The Design, not fight them or make a truce, but Angels laughs and says it is not about the numbers, but who is in the numbers, and that he is not the man he used to be and that he will never be one of "the chosen few" like him and Kon. Callihan says The Design should be thanking him, and says that while Deaner killed Eric Young, he softened Young up and allowed Deaner to create something he can appreciate. He says he wants The Design, but asks if The Design wants him. Angels punches Callihan in the face, and Angels and Kon attack Callihan as he is down. Angels and Kon then hold Callihan down so that Deaner can put his thumbs in Callihan's eyes and hit him with a DDT.
Backstage, Tommy Dreamer talks with "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander. Josh says he gets what Tommy said to Bully Ray, and tells Tommy that he has decades of baggage with Bully that he must deal with. Alexander asks Tommy if he wants his forgiveness if that is what it takes to make Dreamer feel better, then forgives him.
We see footage of "Inevitable" Ace Austin and Chris Bey in action in New Japan Pro Wrestling.
"Speedball" Mike Bailey beats Yuya Uemura. After the match, Kenny King shows up on the video screen from Arena Mexico, saying that the fans do not deserve to see him here in Mexico before telling Bailey "See you never."
The Impact Plus Flashback Moment of the Week is Hulk Hogan's TNA debut from the January 4, 2010 episode of Impact.
Backstage, The Major Players (Matt Cardona and Brian Myers) demand a tag team title shot from Scott D'Amore's door when Heath and Rhino show up. The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) come out of D'Amore's office and tell both teams that they and the team of Chris Bey and Ace Austin will face them for the Impact tag titles at Hard To Kill in a four-way tag match, then Sabin challenges Cardona to a one-on-one match.
Next week: the best of 2022!
Before the next match, Johnny Swinger and "Outlandish" Zicky Dice retreat as Bully Ray makes his way to the ring and attacks Jason Hotch and John Skyler. Bully tosses Skyler out of the ring, then zipties Hotch to the top rope, demands a microphone and demands that "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander get to the ring before he ends Hotch's career. He asks Alexander if he listens to everything his wife and Scott D'Amore says, then tells Hotch that his career is in Alexander's hands and that Alexander is not here. Alexander eventually runs into a ring with a chair, and Bully Ray slides out. Alexander then cuts the ziptie off Hotch, then Hotch grabs Alexander so that he and Skyler can gang up on him. This allows Bully Ray to get back in the ring and hit Alexander in the throat with a chain, then Bully Ray, Hotch and Skyler gang up on Alexander. Hotch and Skyler zip tie Alexander to the top rope so that Bully Ray can torture Alexander with a chair, then Tommy Dreamer gets in the ring and takes out Bully Ray. Hotch and Skyler then grab Tommy Dreamer, but Dreamer fends them off. Bully then hits Dreamer with a low blow followed by a piledriver, then gets a ladder from Hotch and Skyler. Bully Ray smashes the ladder into Dreamer before slamming a chair on it multiple times. As this goes on, Hotch and Skyler hold Alexander down by the legs, then Bully Ray teases hitting Alexander with the chair before hitting the ladder one more time.
Backstage, "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander is met by Scott D'Amore. D'Amore tells him that Tommy Dreamer is going to the hospital and is going to be okay. Alexander admits he was less than nice to Dreamer the last time he talked to him, and says what happened earlier is his fault. D'Amore says Tommy knew what he was getting into, then Alexander says that Bully Ray refuses to play by the rules while he does. Both he and D'Amore agree that Alexander has never been in a fight like this, and Alexander says he never will again. Alexander then asks D'Amore that he wants a Full Metal Mayhem Match against Bully Ray. D'Amore says he has tried to get him to keep his emotions in check, but for once, he wants Alexander to go as low as Bully Ray and beat him at his own game. D'Amore then says that until the Full Metal Mayhem match at Hard To Kill, he will be sending both him and Bully Ray home.
Steve Maclin vs. Rich Swann ends in a double count-out as Maclin proceeds to beat Swann up on the outside. After the match, Maclin put his hands on the referee, then security guards show up and Maclin lays one of them out. Swann fights back, and both Swann and Maclin have to be kept apart.
Backstage, we hear from Eddie Edwards. Edwards says he wants to concentrate on his future, but his past continues to haunt him and he questions why when all he did was stand up for himself. Alisha Edwards shows up and says that he hurt a lot of people, and while she understands that he wants to put his past behind him, he cannot ignore his past and that he must face it head on by beating Jonathan Gresham. Edwards says he will do to Gresham what he did to PCO - bury him so that he is never seen again - then they can move on together.
Mickie James and Jordynne Grace beat Tasha Steelz and Savannah Evans after Jordynne hits Steelz with the top rope Muscle Buster. After the match, Mickie James confronts Jordynne Grace for beating Jordynne Grace with the Muscle Buster for the win, then kicks her in the face.
"Absolute" Ricky Starks heads to the ring. Starks admits that he lost last week and says it is on him because he should have known better against MJF, then says he lost like a man while MJF won like a coward, and he can stand with respect and dignity while MJF has neither as well as a pair of balls. He tells MJF to imagine what will happen next time, as he says there will be a next time between them. Starks says this is not the end of the road, but just the start, and if he has to work his way back to title contention, he will do it and become "the man" in AEW. Suddenly, Chris Jericho, Sammy Guevara and Daniel Garcia arrive. Jericho tells Starks he has been watching him for a long time and says that Starks did come close to become World Champion, then tells him he is not a dollar store version of anybody, but a million dollar talent, but he will be a world champion someday. Jericho then tells Starks that he is not just quite ready yet, and that while has everything it takes to make it in AEW, he just needs a little advice, guidance and Chris Jericho. Jericho also responds to the "Sammy sucks" chants by saying that if people says Sammy sucks, they see he sucks. He then asks Ricky Starks to join The Jericho Appreciation Society. Starks praises Jericho for being able to stay relevant and popular, then says Jericho went from being "built like an air fryer" to "looking like a dad on his fifth divorce," then admits the offer is tempting before rejecting it. Starks also tells Jericho that his stock dropped after losing to Action Andretti and that the J in "J.A.S." might as well stand for "jobbers." He then calls Sammy and Garcia "J.A.S.Hole #1" and "J.A.S.Hole #2" before saying they have not done anything, that Daniel Garcia lost the ROH Pure title, and that he could not care for Sammy Guevara before telling Jericho to suck his balls. Starks then challenge Jericho to a match on January 4th, then Jake Hager shows up from behind Starks and attacks him. Sammy and Garcia soon join in while Jericho directs traffic, then Action Andretti runs into the ring. Andretti ducks the baseball bat shot and takes out Jericho and Hager, and Starks is able to get back in the fight before Andretti hits Jericho with a split leg moonsault.
Don Callis guests on commentary for the next match.
The Elite (Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson) beats Death Triangle (PAC, Penta el Zero Miedo, Rey Fenix), brining Death Triangle's lead to 3-2 (three wins to two). After the match, Death Triangle viciously attack The Elite.
We see post-match footage from last week's show where MJF calls out "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson, who he calls a nobody in his world for ruining his moment. He says everyone wants to ride his wave and eat off his place, but Danielson will eat less than he desires and more than he deserves during his reign of terror.
Backstage, Tony Schiavone interviews Action Andretti, who says that he did the unthinkable last week and beat Chris Jericho, and since then, his life has never been the same. He says that while he has gotten a ton of support, he knew The Jericho Appreciation Society would take their anger out on someone. As he talks about how they took their anger out on "Absolute" Ricky Starks, Angelo Parker and Matt Menard show up to compliment him. Angelo Parker says that Andretti is on a hot streak and is "on fire," then Andretti is hit from behind with a fireball by Chris Jericho.
Renee Paquette interviews "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson in the ring. On the subject of William Regal's departure, he says he does not expect The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta) to forgive Regal for what he did, then talks about how he fought his first wrestling match in the nearby Far West Rodeo and how he was trained by Rudy Boy Gonzalez and Shawn Michaels. He then says that Regal turned him into the wrestler and the person that he is today. He says that while Claudio Castagonli and Jon Moxley do not have the same relationship he did with Regal, and that when Regal was in the hospital, he cried. Danielson says that Regal made him and so many other people better and has meant so much to the industry, and that he loved having Regal in AEW. He then says that Regal taught him that there are consequences to one's actions. Danielson then says that MJF needs to learn about said consequences, for he has heard every word that MJF has said and that there will be consequences for what he did to Regal and calling him a coward before calling MJF out. "All Ego" Ethan Page and Stokely Hathaway show up instead, and Ethan Page says that he should have been the one to win the battle royal and the AEW World Champonship, and that "Vegetable Man" Danielson is trying to jump the line. Stokely tells Danielson to go home, be a family man, shop at Trader Joe's and eat vegan snacks, then Danielson says that he couldn't hear a word that Stokely said before he makes fun of Stokely's bald head, asks him to grow some hair and shut up, and questions the use of "Vegetable Man" as an insult. Hathaway responds with "You raggedy bitch," then Ethan Page says he called Danielson "vegetable man" not because of what he eats, but because he will make him a vegetable if he jumps the line to the World title. Danielson dares Ethan Page to turn him into a vegetable right now, and Page says that while he has no problem taking his shirt off, the pants will stay on, and they can do it next week.
We hear from Jon Moxley, who says that the $300,000 Three Kings Christmas Casino Trios royale on this week's Rampage is right up his alley and that he will be there. He also says he and "Hangman" Adam Page can fight for as long as Page wants, but he wants to settle this in the ring. He then says there is nothing to settle after he knocks Page out and that it is not his fault that Page has a glass jaw, then says he is not a bad guy before telling Page not to become "a play wrestler." As for his opponent tonight, Darius Martin, it is not his fault that Darius is "injury prone" and that he will have to teach Darius a lesson tonight.
In footage form earlier today in Tampa, Florida, Samoa Joe wishes the AEW fans a happy holidays, then wishes Wardlow the happiest and merriest of holidays, because they both know he will not have a happy new year when he gives him more than he ever asked for. He then says that afterwards, he will take from Wardlow, then wishes him a happy holiday again before telling him the holiday cheer will end on December 28th.
Hook beats Exodus Prime with the Redrum. After the match, Stokely Hathaway shows up on the video screen with Big Bill and Lee Moriarty attacking "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry and throwing him into a dumpster.
Jon Moxley beats Darius Martin.
We see a video package for Hikaru Shida vs. Jamie Hayter for the AEW World Women's Championship later tonight.
We hear from Powerhouse Hobbs, who talks about how he watched his uncle overdose from drugs and cough and vomit up his own blood at three years old and how he was beaten, robbed, stabbed and shot growing up. He says only monsters do this to a child and that they created a monster themselves, and that is time to spill some blood of his own in the next chapter of The Book of Hobbs.
The Gunns (Austin and Colten Gunn) beat FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) after Austin Gunn grabs Colten Gunn's hand as he has Dax Harwood in a roll-up.
Sonjay Dutt makes fun of "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn and The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster and Anthony Bowens) while rapping over The Acclaimed's theme.
Tony Schiavone interviews Keith Lee and Swerve Stickland, with hip hop recording artist and mogul Rick Ross acting as a mediator. Keith Lee arrives first, then Rick Ross says history will be made today as business gets taken care before he introduces Swerve and says to Keith Lee "You're a big motherfucker." Swerve's music fails to play before Swerve shows up with a bag in his hand, complaining that this is being done on Keith Lee's time and that he will be doing things his way. Swerve says he tried to give Keith Lee the whole world and that they should own everything, then tells Rick Ross that he cannot deal with all the accusations before telling Keith Lee to keep his eyes on the tag team titles, his health and in the back of his head. All of a sudden, Parker Boudreaux shows up from behind Keith Lee and attacks Lee while dressed in the same shirt as Swerve. Keith Lee soon clotheslines Boudreaux over the top rope, then Rick Ross puts Swerve over as an icon and a legend. As Keith Lee approaches Swerve, he is soon attacked from behind by a man with a lot of tattoos over his body, and he too is an affiliate of Swerve. Keith Lee is then hit from behind with a chair by Parker Boudreaux. Parker Boudreaux and the tattooed man continue to attack Keith Lee as Rick Ross says it is time to make history, then lay him on the stairs so that Swerve can stomp a cinderblock through Keith Lee from the top rope.
We hear from some of the trios in the $300,000 Three Kings Christmas Casino Trios royale.
Jamie Hayter retains the AEW Women's World Championship against Hikaru Shida after Shida fends off Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. while Rebel distracts the referee. After the match, Britt Baker attacks Shida, then Toni Storm runs into the ring and takes down Rebel and Britt before Hayter hits her in the back of the head with the AEW Women's World Championship. Rebel and Britt hold Toni Storm, then Saraya runs into the ring and takes down Rebel before kicking Britt Baker in the face to end the show.
Carmelo Hayes beats Axiom following the interference from Trick Williams. After the match, Axiom hits Trick Williams with a moonsault to the outside.
Backstage, Grayson Waller says he cannot believe Roxanne Perez is champion after refusing to wait and calling her shot, then says he wants his title match tonight. When told Bron Breakker is not here and is on a media tour for Vengeance Day elsewhere, Waller does not care and wants Breakker in the ring anyway.
Backstage, Tony D'Angelo finds out he has a North American Championship match, then Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo asks what to do next. D'Angelo tells Stacks to tell Dijak to stay out of his way and that Dijak can get the first shot at the title afterwards. Grayson Waller then shows up looking for Bron Breakker, and tells D'Angelo to let him know if he sees him.
Zoey Stark beats Nikkita Lyons after rolling Nikkita up in the corner and grabbing the bottom rope for leverage.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Cora Jade, who says Roxanne Perez is the luckiest person alive right now and that the NXT Women's title should be hers. Suddenly, she gets attacked by Wendy Choo, and referees have to hold both women back.
In footage from earlier this week, Josh Briggs, Brooks Jensen and Fallon Henley talk about the status of the bar. As Briggs and Jensen think about how to become tag team champions again, Kiana James shows up with her assistant. Kiana James says she has taken care of the financial situation. While the commercial debt is done, there is a lien placed on the bar by the bank and that she can sell the bar outright. Fallon Henley calls Kiana James "a real bitch," but Kiana says she prefers "businesswoman," then puts the bar on the line in a match next week. If Fallon Henley wins, her parents keep the bar with none of the debt, and Kiana removes the lien and leaves them alone. If Kiana James wins however, she gets the bar for only what she paid for it, pennies on the dollar. Kiana James accepts the challenge.
Katana Chance and Kayden Carter retain the NXT Women's Tag Team Championships against the team of Ivy Nile and Tatum Paxley and Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne) in a Triple Threat Tag Team Match after Kayden Carter walks up the rope to pin Ivy Nile as Ivy has her in the Diamond Chain.
We see a vignette of Oro Mensah at a dance club as he says that while he may not be here for a long time, but he is here for a good time, as it is his time to shine.
In footage from earlier today, Booker T interviews Roxanne Perez. Roxanne Perez says he is overwhelmed and did not expect to win the NXT Women's title when she did, but she pulled it off after coming to Booker T's school five years and pulling off several first in nine months in NXT. She also says that she remembers Booker T telling her to bet herself, and last week, she bet on herself and everything worked out. Roxanne then asks Booker T for advice, Booker says he has always been about checks and championships, and that if one has butterflies, they must make those butterflies line up.
Apollo Crews heads to the ring. Apollo congratulates Roxanne Perez on becoming the new NXT Women's Champion, then says he expected to walk out of Deadline as NXT Champion, as it was his night and his vision was clear. He says that he has been knocked down a few pegs, but he is not out of championship contention, as Bron Breakker and Grayson Waller will be wrestling each other for the title, then Carmelo Hayes shows up. Carmelo tells him he cannot see the NXT Championship from the back of the line, then says he is next in line for the title. He also says that he has no problem beating Apollo Crews in a wrestling match. Apollo says he expected more from Carmelo, and says that while Carmelo has it all, no matter how good Carmelo is, there is always someone better. He says that he does not have to tell him he is better, and that Carmelo can name the time and place so he can show him that he is.
Backstage, Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) show up with all the Christmas presents that The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) have asked for, but they have yet to get Nailz's prison outfit in exchange for an NXT tag team title shot.
Backstage, Isla Dawn blinds Alba Fyre with some sort of orange dust.
In footage from last week, Malik Blade, Edris Enofe and Odyssey Jones suddenly notice Ava Raine. Raine asks them if the feeling they are looking for is only temporary, then the rest of The Schism (Joe Gacy, Rip Fowle,r Jagger Reid) shows up and mocks them for going out for a night on the town.
Backstage, Isla Dawn gets checked out at the trainer's room as Grayson Waller looks around for Bron Breakker.
Elektra Lopez beats Indi Hartwell with some brass knuckles that she hid in a top turnbuckle as Indi Hartwell grabs her out of the corner, then hides the evidence in her gear after the match.
Backstage, Alba Fyre finds out she is cleared for her match against Sol Ruca, which is up next.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Wes Lee, who says he refuses to be "a reactionary champion" and that he will give his all against all his opponent. He says that he will beat Tony D'Angelo, then he will deliver cold, hard facts to Dijak to keep his title.
Before the next match can begin, Alba Fyre is pulled off the ring apron by Isla Dawn, who traps Alba's arm behind the ring steps before hitting the steps with Alba Fyre's baseball bat to injure the arm.
At Chase University, everyone is having a Christmas party. Thea Hail gifts Andre Chase a new sweater, then Chase chews someone out for presenting fruitcake, which he is allergic to. This causes a few people to question their gift choice of fruitcake. Duke Hudson, having no gift, tricks someone into thinking the principal wants to see them, then takes their gift of a "#1 Professor" plaque and gifts it to Andre Chase.
Backstage, Mackenzie Mitchell interviews Josh Briggs, Brooks Jensen and Fallon Henley. Briggs says he and Jensen are ready to rock against The New Day, and Jensen says this is the fight of their life and that 2023 will be their year. Kiana James shows up and wishes Jensen good luck, much to the confusion of Briggs and Henley.
In footage from earlier today, Drew Gulak practices in a wrestling ring when Hank Walker shows up and asks him for advice. Gulak asks Hank to attend his seminar next week, which Hank Walker agrees to do.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) retain the NXT Tag Team Championships against Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen. Both teams shake hands after the match. Kiana James and her assistant are seen watching from the front row during the match.
Backstage, Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo practices warning Dijak not to get in Tony D'Angelo's way.
Backstage, Grayson Waller tells Bron Breakker to meet him in the ring.
Backstage, Ivy Nile says she and Tatum Paxley made great strides as a team, and Brutus Creed says he and Julius Creed are proud of them. Suddenly, Indus Sher (Veer Mahaan and Sanga) show up knowing The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) are clear, but they want to know if there are no trust issues between them. Julius says that Indus Sher will see that there are no trust issues in Diamond Mine when he faces JD McDonagh next week.
Grayson Waller heads to the ring. Waller calls out Bron Breakker, saying he is not waiting any longer and that he is calling his shot. When Bron Breakker fails to show up, Waller calls him a coward and says he has carried NXT on his back all year and is the biggest star here. He then says that there is nobody who can do what he does and that he is soon to become the greatest NXT Champion of all time, then says Bron Breakker is not the dog he thinks he is before Bron Breakker suddenly shows up at the arena. Breakker runs to the ring and hits Waller with a Spear, but Waller is the one left standing when he reveals that he had body armer and a steel plate behind his jacket. Waller brags that he has outsmarted Bron Breakker again, and that he will outsmart him one more time at New Year's Evil when he becomes NXT Champion.
