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.
Jayden Dominic Rose beats Ted "The Trailer" McNaler. After the match, Count Noctis runs into the ring and attacks Jayden Dominic Rose, and Ted McNaler joins in. Damian Chambers then runs into the ring and attacks Noctis as well as McNaler.
Brian Myers quickly beats "Pretty" Peter Avalon with a schoolkid pin. After the match, a furious Avalon says he was not ready and that the loss does not count, and that he wants a rematch. Avalon then puts $10,000 of his own money on the line if the match is restarted, and the match is restarted.
Brian Myers quickly beats "Pretty" Peter Avalon again in the $10,000 rematch after Avalon is caught using the ropes for leverage during a schoolkid pin, allowing Myers to quickly counter with a backslide pin attempt for the win. After the match, Avalon reluctantly writes Myers a check for $10,000 in front of the announce table.
Backstage, Sean Phillips interviews Marti Bell, who says that she has been proud of Billie Starkz, but when it comes to last week's match, experience is what counts. When asked who she wants to face for the upcoming United Women's World Champion, Marti says it does not matter and that everyone will know why she is "The Dominican Dynamite."
Johnnie Robbie vs. J-Rod from last week's Championship Wrestling presented by CarShield is replayed.
Danny Limelight retains the United World Championship against Rocco Bellagio after escaping a powerbomb and putting him in a sleeper. After the match, both men shake hands, and Bellagio raises Limelight's hand.
The show starts with UWN representative Jonny Loquasto addressing the fans, who is about to announce the next contender for the United World Championship, and introducing United World Champion Danny Limelight. Limelight wants to know who his next challenger, then Loquasto mentions that Limelight has had a laundry list of competitors that he has put down before announcing he will be defending against "Filthy" Tom Lawlor in two weeks. Lawlor shows up and says he has faced the best and has also had history with Limelight, then says that the two of them are not the same, as while Limelight might have fought some of the best, he has not fought him. He then says that in two weeks, the United World Championship is coming home where it belongs, and Limelight responds by saying he knew he was here for his title, and while Lawlor is one of the best fighters in the world, they are not in New Japan. Limelight then says that he is the face of the United Wrestling Network and that he will put Tom Lawlor out.
Backstage, Jack Farmer interviews Halston Boddy, who says that he already has "La Mariposa" Dom Kubrick's attention and is dancing around in his head rent-free. Boddy says that Kubrick fears success and that he cannot make it to the top by himself, and that he needs a small army. Boddy then asks Kubrick to join The Boddy Shop - now known as Prism - and tells him that he is a forgiving mood, then tells him that when he makes that decision, he can either help him or hurt him.
"Poppin'" EJ Sparks beats "La Mariposa" Dom Kubrick.
Backstage, Jonny Loquasto meets with "Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater, who hands him the contract for his rematch clause, and tells him that there is a stipulation in the contract that ensures that his match is a fair fight. Loquasto says he will look into it, then tells him that he will be facing Invictus Khash. Clearwater says Invictus Khash is "washed up" and "old news" while he runs the market and sets the standard.
"Benevolent" Jack Banning retains the United Television Championship against Ju Dizz and Jordan Cruz after Cruz gets on his feet while Banning has him in the guillotine choke and stacks him up on top of Ju Dizz. With both of Ju Dizz's shoulders down and the body-to-body contact between Banning and Ju Dizz, despite it being facilitated by Cruz, causes Banning to retain the championship. After the match, Jordan Cruz attacks Ju Dizz and blames him for the loss.
K-Toomer beats "Remarkable" Ryan Rembrandt by submission. After the match, Dustin Starr interviews K-Toomer at the announce desk. K-Toomer proclaims that in two weeks, we will be looking at the next Heritage Champion. After K-Toomer leaves, however, The Circuz (Barnabas the Leader and Maurice the Strong) shows up, and Barnabas says that K-Toomer is more miserable than the fans for thinking he deserves a Heritage title shot and that Maurice The Strong pinned K-Toomer to get such an opportunity. He says that he and Maurice will keep an eye on K-Toomer, "The GunShow" Brett Michaels and the Memphis Heritage Championship. K-Toomer dares Maurice in the ring, but Barnabas holds Maurice back.
Dustin Starr interviews James Ellsworth and Matt Williams at the announce desk. Ellsworth asks the Memphis fans if they are happy to see him back and that he was scouting talent for Ellsworth Enterprises while he was away and he wanted to find the most fabulous women in Memphis Wrestling, who happened to be "The Goddess of the Night" Nyxx. When asked where Storybook Prince Gaston is, Matt Williams says Gaston is out on business, and Ellsworth says everyone should be talking about Nyxx instead as he puts her on a pedestal above the rest of the women's division. He says that it is all about Ellsworth Enterprises and all about Nyxx as the fans tell him to shut up, then Matt Williams introduces Nyxx, who shows up. Through Matt Williams, Nyxx states that she had no one-on-one matches for the women's title and that nobody was in her corner as she wrestled for the title, and the only reason Cassandra Golden held the women's title was because "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock hit her in the face with it. She then says she took what was rightfully hers.
Backstage, Mackenzie Morgan and Cassandra Golden try to get a hold of "The Goddess of the Night" Nyxx, but to no avail. They then realize they need a partner against Nyxx, James Ellsworth and Matt Williams, then Big John Dalton shows up, much to Mackenzie and Cassandra's chagrin.
"The Problem Child" Aaron Roberts beats Mike Anthony after Justin Case distracts the referee so that Roberts can hit Anthony with a Kendo stick. After the match, Roberts hits Anthony with the Kendo stick a few more times and chokes him with it.
Dustin Starr tries to interview "The Best of the Best" Austin Lane at the announce desk, but Austin Lane simply heads to the ring.
"The Best of the Best" Austin Lane beats the debuting Gryffen X with a guillotine choke in a "Best of the Best" Challenge, then refuses to let go of the hold for some time. After the match, a very trouble Austin Lane refuses to give Dustin Starr any answers as to what is going on with him.
We hear from Mr. Chris, who says it is time to put the spikes away for good as he washes his facepaint off his face, and that it is the end of The Posse's (Simon and Mr. Chris) story. We also hear from Simon, who says that it is time to take the facepaint off and that they cannot cut it against the younger wrestlers.
Uncle Mikey beats "Main Event" Brad Skimahorn in a Hair vs. Hair Match. Mikey uses the scissors at first, and when Brad comes to, Mikey uses the electric razor, as does a few of the fans. Finally, Mikey puts shaving cream all over Brad's head and uses a traditional razor.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Kelly Kincaid interviews Hank Walker and Tank Ledger. Walker says the two of them bonded over similar food choices, and Ledger calls The Dyad (Rip Fowler and Jagger Reid) "the green beans of the tag team division," but at the end of the day, they want that meatloaf. The two of them then ask The Dyad if they are ready for the beef.
Ivy Nile beats Lola Vice with the Diamond Chain.
The Dyad (Rip Fowler and Jagger Reid) beat Hank Walker and Tank Ledger.
Triple H shows up for the first WWE Draft picks. He mentions that every Superstar on Raw and SmackDown are open to being moved to the other brand, with half of the roster being drafted tonight and the other half being drafted next week on Raw. He says that select Superstars are also available to be drafted to either Raw or SmackDown, and post-draft rosters will go into effect on May 8th after Backlash. The first pick in the first round is Paul Heyman, Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns of The Bloodline for SmackDown. With this, the new World Heavyweight Championship is exclusive to Raw. The second pick is "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes for Raw. The third pick is Bianca Belair - the current Raw Women's Champion - for SmackDown. The fourth pick is Becky Lynch for Raw. After the first round WWE Draft picks are made, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) show up. They congratulate Roman Reigns for being picked in the first round, then tell Roman that they will bring back the tag team gold despite Roman not answering their correspondence. After they dedicate tonight's match to Roman, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn show up. Sami says he is not here to talk sense into The Usos or to talk them into anything, but he mentions that The Usos do not find it strange that ever since he and Owens beat them for the tag team titles, Roman has not answered them back and that they have not been drafted with the rest of The Bloodline. He says that if this does not tell them everything they need to know, nothing will. As Sami says they will retain the tag team titles, Jey Uso says they will leave with nothing and that The Usos will be champions again, and Jimmy says that Kevin is going to turn his back on Sami after they both lose. Kevin finally has enough and tells The Usos that they will beat the hell out of them and keep their titles.
We hear from Bianca Belair, who is excited to be SmackDown Women's Champion again, as the title was the first one that she ever won.
LA Knight beats Butch.
Backstage, Jimmy Uso tells Jey Uso that tonight is the night. Paul Heyman agrees, as they will be drafted tonight either onto the island of relevancy or the ocean of obscurity, and that one way or another, Roman Reigns will only accept the fact that tonight is the night.
It is announced that Rob Van Dam will be a special guest drafter for Raw and that Michael P.S. Hayes will be a special guest drafter for SmackDown.
Rob Van Dam and Michael P.S. Hayes show up for the second round of WWE Draft picks, with RVD announcing the Raw picks and Hayes announcing the SmackDown picks. For #5, The Street Profits are picked for SmackDown. For #6, Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) are picked for Raw, bringing the Intercontinental Championship to the red brand. For #7, Edge is picked for SmackDown. For #8, Matt Riddle is picked for Raw.
Before the next match, Montez Ford proclaims that he and Angelo Dawkins are back in blue, and that nothing has changed except that the day that they work on and that they want the smoke.
The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat the team of Braun Strowman and Ricochet and the team of The Latino World Order (Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro) in a Triple Threat Tag Team Match.
Bad Bunny comes to SmackDown next week in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Teddy Long and JBL are the special guest drafters for Raw and SmackDown respectively for Round 3.
Teddy Long and JBL arrive to announce the Round 3 WWE Draft picks for Raw and SmackDown respectively. #9 is Bobby Lashley for SmackDown. #10 is Drew McIntyre for Raw. #11 is The O.C. ("The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson, Mia Yim) for SmackDown. #12 is The Miz for Raw.
Zelina Vega beats Sonya Deville. After the match, Zelina is attacked from behind by Rhea Ripley, who also headbutts Sonya Deville when she confronts her. Chelsea Green decides she wants none of Rhea Ripley, and when Rhea goes for the Riptide on Zelina, Zelina counters it into a DDT.
Backstage, Santos Escobar and Zelina Vega are met by Rey Mysterio, who congratulates Zelina on her win. Zelina says she will do it for her family and her people at Backlash, and Rey tells Zelina that no matter what people think, all Zelina needs to do is believe. Rey tells her that he did that and made it all the way to the WWE Hall of Fame, and that if she fights with what is in her heart and soul, she will become SmackDown Women's Champion.
The O.C. ("The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson, Mia Yim) head to the ring. Before Styles can say much of anything, The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) and Valhalla show up. Styles, after realizing they want to pick a fight, decides to watch from the corner and tells The O.C. to handle their business, and The O.C. come out on top in the ensuing brawl. Styles tells SmackDown that they have just started, then The O.C. flashes the "Too Sweet" hand signal. As they leave, Styles hits Ivar with a Phenomenal Forearm.
"Road Dogg" Jesse James and "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels represent Raw and SmackDown respectively in the fourth and last round of tonight's WWE Draft picks.
"Road Dogg" Jesse James and "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels show up to announce the draft picks for Raw and SmackDown respectively for the fourth and final round of the night. #13 is Damage CTRL (Bayley, Iyo Sky, Dakota Kai) for SmackDown. #14 is Shinsuke Nakamura for Raw. #15 is Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre, the current NXT Women's Tag Team Champions, for SmackDown. #16 is Indi Hartwell, the current NXT Women's Champion, for Raw.
As Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre are excited to be on SmackDown, Katana Chance and Kayden Carter show up and challenge them to a match for the NXT Women's Tag Team Championships on NXT next Tuesday.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Shinsuke Nakamura, who is excited to be going to SmackDown when he is suddenly attacked from behind by Karrion Kross.
Backstage, Paul Heyman tells The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) that tonight, Roman Reigns wants the spotlight on them because tonight is the night. As a result, Solo Sikoa stays behind, and he gives Heyman the thumbs up.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn retain the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships against The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso). During the match, Paul Heyman gets a call from Roman Reigns, and Heyman then tells Solo Sikoa "Tonight...is your night." Near the end of the match, Solo Sikoa shows up. All of a sudden, Matt Riddle fights Solo Sikoa on the ramp and takes the brawl to the back.
This week on SmackDown LowDown: Rhea Ripley! Shinsuke Nakamura! Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn!
Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!
Round 1:
#1 - Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa and Paul Heyman (SmackDown)
#2 - "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes (Raw)
#3 - Bianca Belair (SmackDown)
#4 - Becky Lynch (Raw)
Round 2:
#5 - The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) (SmackDown)
#6 - Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) (Raw)
#7 - Edge (SmackDown)
#8 - Matt Riddle (Raw)
Round 3:
#9 - Bobby Lashley (SmackDown)
#10 - Drew McIntyre (Raw)
#11 - The O.C. ("The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson, Mia Yim) (SmackDown)
Bullet Club ("Rock Hard" Juice Robinson and "Switchblade" Jay White) beat "Absolute" Ricky Starks and Shawn Spears. After the match, Starks and Juice continue to go at it, and Juice rolls out of the ring just before Starks can hit the Spear.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Hook and The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy). Matt says he knows The Firm is behind Isiah Kassidy's disappearance, then The Firm shows up on the nearby monitor and reveal that they are holding him hostage. "All Ego" Ethan Page says the match at the Hardy compound will happen last week or else Isiah Kassidy is getting choke slammed. Matt agrees to the match being next week, and Big Bill choke slams Isiah Kassidy anyway. As The Hardys look for The Firm backstage, Hook says "The Firm are getting deleted."
Naturally Limitless ("The Natural" Dustin Rhodes and "Limitless" Keith Lee) quickly beat Brady Pierce and Charlie James. After the match, The Mogul Embassy (Prince Nana, "The Machine" Brian Cage, Bishop Kaun, Toa Liona, Swerve Strickland) shows up and stares down Naturally Limitless from the stage.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Sammy Guevara when Tay Melo shows up and stops the interview to tell Sammy that MJF is not his friend and that she wants the best for Sammy, and that his younger self would not be proud of him. Tay tells Sammy that he does not need the money and that he does not even like MJF, and that it is his turn to listen.
Anna Jay A.S. beats Ashley D'Amboise with the Queenslayer. After the match, the lights go out, and when they come back on, Anna Jay A.S. is attacked from behind by Julia Hart. Anna sends Julia Hart into the ring post and stretches her out on it as referees try to restore order.
We hear from The Outcasts (Saraya, Toni Storm, Ruby Soho). Saraya says they have been proving their point as of late and that Willow Nightingale is lucky to face her on Dynamite next week and get walked like a dog, and that The Outcasts will prove that AEW is their house.
The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster, Anthony Bowens, "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn) quickly beat Ryzin, Cameron Stewart and an unnamed third opponent.
Mark Henry interviews Jay Lethal, Jeff Jarrett, Satnam Singh, Sonjay Dutt and FTR. Lethal says Jarrett beats Dax earlier this week, and he will prove that FTR cannot hold a candle to them and that they will be the new tag team champions. Wheeler expects Lethal and his group to cheat like they did on Wednesday, as they have the worst of intentions for them and everyone else, and that they will have Mark Briscoe in their corner to stop the cheating.
Next week's Rampage will also air next Friday at 5:30 PM Eastern/2:30 PM Pacific.
Jay Lethal beats Cash Wheeler in a match with Mark Briscoe as special enforcer after Sonjay Dutt gets in the ring, distracting Wheeler and allowing Lethal to get the ring as Mark Briscoe is knocked off the apron and into the barricade.
Kenny King beats Channing Decker in the BTI match after rolling out of a top rope cross body to hit the Royal Flush.
Jordynne Grace beats Masha Slamovich in a back-and-forth chain of Sunset Flip attempts.
We see a video package of Nick Aldis' IMPACT Wrestling return.
It is announced that Joe Hendry has suffered a broken nose following his Digital Media title defense against Sheldon Jean.
Steve Maclin heads to the ring. Maclin says PCO wanted to catch him off guard last week, and he did. He says he made a tactical retreat and yet the fans want to call him a coward, then asks why they should wait until Under Siege and challenges PCO for the IMPACT World title now. PCO shows up, but he is soon attacked from behind by Champagne Singh and Shera and thrown into the ring, and Maclin heads to the back as Singh and Shera continue their attack on PCO. After PCO gets the upper hand with a double clothesline, Director of Authority Santino Marella shows up. Singh tries to bribe Santino, but Santino puts Singh in a match with PCO and bans Shera from ringside.
PCO beats Champagne Singh.
The Impact Plus Flashback Moment of the week is Magnus (Nick Aldis) vs. Christopher Daniels on the February 14, 2013 episode of Impact Wrestling.
We hear from The Design (Deaner, Angels, Kon). Deaner says he trusted Sami Callihan despite what others told him, and Callihan betrayed him and The Design so he can be his own man. He says that Callihan is not a machine, as machines feel no pain and Callihan will feel every ounce of pain The Design will give him for his betrayal. Deaner says that if he is willing to kill Eric Young, then one can only imagine what he will do to Callihan. He tells Callihan to watch tonight, as what The Design will do tonight is only a fraction of the pain in Callihan's future.
We hear from The Coven (Taylor Wilde and KiLynn King). Taylor Wilde asks a spirit to bring pain to Deonna Purrazzo as part of a spell. Taylor has her misgivings about the effectiveness of the spell, but KiLynn King says it will work.
Before the next match, "Outlandish" Zicky Dice mentions the "Road To Fifty," then says he and Johnny Swinger will fix their winning streak tonight. Zicky Dice then brings out Swinger's opponent due to a language barrier, and that opponent is El Dineroco, who is Zicky in disguise.
Johnny Swinger quickly beats El Dineroco with a La Magistral Cradle, finally giving Swinger his first win of fifty. After the match, it is obvious that Zicky Dice is El Dineroco, then Director of Authority Santino Marella shows up and says the victory is nullified. Johnny Swinger then kicks Zicky Dice to the curb.
Backstage, Kenny King meets with Channing Decker. Channing admits that Kenny King was the better man and thanks him for the opportunity, and Kenny shakes his hand before thanking him for allowing him to beat his ass in his hometown. Kenny King then meets with Sheldon Jean and says that while he has potential and reminds him of himself, potential is nothing without someone to steer the ship. When Sheldon asks what is going on, Kenny tells him he has to keep his head on a swivel in IMPACT as people keep talking about Nick Aldis over him and worry about what it is in it for himself.
"Inevitable" Ace Austin and Chris Bey beat The Design (Angels and Kon) after Sami Callihan shows up and attacks Deaner at ringside. During the match, it is announced that Director of Authority Santino Marella has been attacked backstage.
Backstage, Dirty Dango shows up to check on Director of Authority Santino Marella, who says that he was attacked from behind and managed to get a tuft of hair. The doctor tells Santino to take some head off, and Dango "resigns" as "Assistant Director of Authority" to become "Detective of Authority."
Backstage, Rosemary and Jessicka size up their situation regarding the Undead Realm when Crazzy Steve shows up. Steve says he has seen what is going on, then is surprised by Jessicka's appearance before asking Rosemary if she has talked to everyone. Rosemary is reluctant to talk to Father James Mitchell, but Steve tells her she has to do it.
Jody Threat beats Seleziya Sparx.
We hear from Killer Kelly, who wants another battle with Masha Slamovich - who she considers "the perfect playmate" - after the fun she had at Hardcore War.
Backstage, Gia Miller interviews Frankie Kazarian. In part one of a sit-down interview series, Kazarian talks about how he met Scott D'Amore and Jeff Jarrett on an overseas tour and his early days in Impact Wrestling, and how he learned that he did not want to be a veteran clinging to their spot to keep the younger talent from becoming stars. He says that he left in 2014 because of tumultuous management who did not care what he or his peers were doing.
"The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo retains the IMPACT Wrestling Knockouts World Championship against Taylor Wilde after countering the Witch's Wrath into the Venus de Milo. After the match, KiLynn King attacks Deonna from behind, and Taylor Wilde joins in. Jordynne Grace runs into the ring to even the numbers game, and The Coven (Taylor Wilde and KiLynn King) retreat. Jordynne makes it clear she still wants the Knockouts title, then she and Deonna shake hands.
Here is tonight's post-show!
Here are the must-see moments from tonight's show!
Athena beats Lady Frost in a ROH Women's World Championship Proving Grounds Match.
We hear from The Kingdom (Matt Taven, Mike Bennett, Maria Kanellis-Bennett). Bennett says that Ring of Honor was built on honor. Taven says that Supercard of Honor was supposed to be their moment of glory, but they were given a match with Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) instead. Bennett says he is tired of "little kids" using their company as a stepstool and stealing their moment every chance they get. Taven then says that they were disrespected at Supercard of Honor and were screwed out of the tag team titles and their moment. Maria Kanellis-Bennett says Jay Briscoe gave them respect, and says that when respect is taken from The Kingdom that is something they do not forget. Taven says they will teach everyone a lesson until they get revenge against every single team in the Reach For The Sky Ladder Match. Maria says that ROH was built by The Kingdom, and says that they will teach every team they face what ROH means, and if they do not give them respect, they will take that respect and show them what it means to be part of the ROH locker room.
La Faccion Ingobernable (Preston Vance and Rush) beat The Infantry ("The Captain" Shawn Dean and "Bad News and Tattoos" Carlie Bravo).
Best Friends (Chuck Taylor and Trent Beretta) beat Joe Ocasio and Mookie Summers.
"The Machine" Brian Cage beats Leon Ruffin with the Texas Cloverleaf.
Before the next match, The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch) show up and watch the next match from the stage.
The Dark Order (Evil Uno and Stu Grayson) beat The Trustbusters (Jeeves Kay and Sonny Kiss).
Backstage, Dasha Gonzalez interviews "The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels. He says that after thirty years in professional wrestling, he knows what it is like to be on top and at the bottom, and right now, he is at one of his all-time lows. He has not had his hand raised in victory as much as he would like, but he knows nothing will be handed to him and that nothing will come easy despite his accomplishments. Daniels says he must earn everything that he wants and desires in Ring of Honor, and if he is going to swing, he is going to swing for the fences with Samoa Joe. He says the two of them have had a long, blood-drenched history and have been friends, enemies and opponents as they fought tooth and nail for the things that they wanted. Daniels tells Joe that he wants the ROH World Television Championship. He says that he is not scared or intimidated to put his name in the hat against Joe again and that he is ready to go, and dares Joe to make him bleed if he can, for he wants his title next week.
Skye Blue beats Diamante. After the match, Athena shows up and stomps Skye Blue's baseball cap on the stage.
Lee Moriarty beats Rocky Romero after Moriarty distracts the referee so that Big Bill can choke slam Romero on the corner of the ring apron.
Backstage, we hear from Rocky Romero. Romero says Lee Moriarty is the type of talent that Ring of Honor was built on and could be World Champion, and says he managed to outsneak him with help from Big Bill. He says he is not happy with that, and that he challenges Moriarty to a Pure Rules Match next week so he can give him "a pure ass whuppin'."
At Nick Jackson's home, The Young Bucks watch their recently match with Death Triangle (PAC, Penta el Zero Miedo, Rey Fenix) as they get ready for their next challenge: a best-of-seven series between The Elite and Death Triangle. Nick says he considered retiring after the events of All Out, but he is still here. Both of them know that the Chicago, Illinois crowd will be hostile, as All Out took place there, and Matt admits he is not exactly looking forward to it.
At AEW Dynamite, MJF does a photo shoot. Meanwhile, Tay Melo finds out from Britt Baker that Thunder Rosa as she has a three-way tag team match. She also mentions that Ruby Soho is back from injury after that she does not know what to expect after she accidentally broke her nose. Britt tells Tay to just be professional.
We hear from Ruby Soho, who talks about how wrestling gave her an identity of her own and an environment where she did not feel like a misfit as she returns for the first time in three months since Tay Melo broke her nose. Backstage, she and Eddie Kingston catch up on things, and Eddie Kingston admits that he likes Ruby more than he likes himself. Ruby is not cleared to wrestle just yet, and she hopes to get cleared tonight so she can wrestle next week. Ruby admits to Eddie that she has not talked to Tay Melo since the injury, and Eddie tells her to be professional.
Thunder Rosa trains to get her confidence back in the ring, as she knows she will have to alter her wrestling style and move forward, and if she cannot get back in the month, AEW will need a new women's champion. As she trains, she feels a lot fo pain in her back, and says she may have to do more to heal up.
Two hours before Dynamite in Chicago, Britt Baker makes it to the arena. She finds out that there will be a big announcement later in the show.
Sammy Guevara finds out that he does not have a match this week. For fun, he tries out one of the camera crew's cameras.
The show finally starts. Tay Melo says that it has been a while since she has a match and that she needs to prove what she can do. She hopes that she will keep getting chances to prove herself and put her personality out there.
The Elite (Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson) head out for their match with Death Triangle (PAC, Penta el Zero Miedo, Rey Fenix), and find out that the crowd is against them. Nevertheless, the match goes well, but Nick Jackson is fearful that he will overthink things and Matt wonders what will happen if the crowds continue to boo them.
The women's division finds out that Thunder Rosa has been asked to relinquish the AEW Women's World Championship. Britt Baker feels relieved that the women's division can finally move forward.
In Indianapolis, Indiana, Britt Baker tells Tony Schiavone that the women's division received a big morale boost with the recent announcement. Tony mentions that Jamie Hayter is stressed about being a champion, and Britt mentions that she is cautious about being the women's champion again because of all the drama that came with her championship reign.
Eight hours before Dynamite, Sammy Guevara does not have a match again this week. Meanwhile, Tay Melo finds out that she and Ruby Soho will be working together again, and that she needs to clear the air with her so they can be on the same page.
During the show, Tay Melo meets with Ruby Soho and apologizes to her and makes sure everything is okay. Ruby Soho wants to make sure that what Tay Melo did was an accident, and says that if it happens again, they will have a problem. Tay Melo hopes for the best and hopes that both of them will be professional, and Ruby Soho thinks that people will think that people will see the problems between them manifest on screen. After the women's tag team match, things go well, but Tay Melo knows that things are getting tense between her and Rubyl she is, however, prepared for what is to come.
"Freshly Squeezed" Orange Cassidy retains the AEW International Championship against Bandido. After the match, Orange helps Bandido up and gives him a pair of sunglasses.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Adam Cole, who says that he will go out to the ring and call out Chris Jericho. He says that he will show Jericho the mistake he made, and if he does not show up, he will find him. After Adam Cole leaves, Orange Cassidy and Bandido show up, but they find out that she has already interviewed Adam Cole. Both Orange and Bandido go "Oh."
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Darby Allin and "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry. Darby says they both said things that they should not have and took things too far, and that they should squash things, especially with how Jack Perry lost last week. Darby also says he should have been ringside and not in the rafters. Jungle Boy agrees, and says it would have been nice if it were the two of them in the ring tonight. Darby says he would beat him again, but Jungle Boy begs to differ.
Before the next match, Jeff Jarrett finds out that the rest of his team is ejected from ringside by referees. When Dax Harwood shows up, Cash Wheeler sees him to the ramp, then heads to the back.
Jeff Jarrett beats Dax Harwood after Sonjay Dutt shows up and trips Dax on the outside, causing Dax to chase him around until he runs into The Stroke. After the match, Jarrett celebrates with one of the AEW World Tag Team titles.
We hear from Tony Khan, who announces that the opening ceremonies for The Owen Hart Cup will take place at Double or Nothing, and that the cup will be held in Canada as well as at Forbidden Door with the finals taking place in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Wardlow beats an unnamed opponent. After the match, Arn Anderson says he has been in the business for 40 years and that he has walked the halls of AEW in three years and knows who is who, then mentions the NFL Draft and calls Wardlow "AEW's dynasty." He says nobody else has the power or the future he has, then says that Wardlow will one day have to do whatever it takes to win when Christian Cage and Luchasaurus show up. Christian teases heading into the ring, but does not do it.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Sammy Guevara. MJF soon shows up and tells Sammy that this is his moment, then kisses him on the forehead. Sammy kisses him on the forehead back and says it is "[their] big moment." MJF then says some people consider him "a gutless coward," and Sammy says that his agreement to lay down for MJF at Double or Nothing has made a mockery of the sport. Both of them then agree that they don't care, and Sammy says he has a fat check while MJF says his title reign has just begun, and Sammy says he will kick Darby Allin's ass before giving MJF a vest that matches his. MJF returns the favor with his own Burberry scarf. Both men then hug.
Backstage, RJ City is jumped by Jon Moxley while Claudio Castagnoli and Wheeler Yuta show also. Moxley says tonight will be a big night for them, as they have scars to leave tonight. Wheeler Yuta then stomps RJ City.
Sammy Guevara beats Darby Allin after Tay Melo distracts the referee and MJF takes Darby's skateboard and hands it to him, which leads to Sammy Guevara falling to the mat after MJF leaves. The referees sees the aftermath of this and disqualifies Darby, giving Sammy the win. After the match, Sammy and MJF attack Darby, then "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry shows up and chases them out of the ring as Tony Schaivone gets a message from Tony Khan. Darby Allin then yells at Jungle Boy for allowing this to happen, then MJF says that he and Sammy are the main event of Double or Nothing before telling Jungle Boy and Darby Allin to kick rocks back to the undercard. Suddenly, Tony Schiavone tells MJF and Sammy Guevara that as per Tony Khan, Sammy has earned the title shot, but he may not be the only one, as next week, there will be a tag team match where MJF and Sammy will face Jungle Boy and Darby Allin. If MJF and Sammy win, they will have their one-on-one match, but if Jungle Boy and Darby Allin win, it will be a four-way match.
Backstage, MJF is furious with Tony Khan's announcement and says that wherever he goes, the "Triple B" follows. He then rides out of the arena alone after telling Sammy Guevara that the car is full when it is not.
Adam Cole heads to the ring. He says it is one thing for Chris Jericho and Daniel Garcia to beat him up, but the beating of him and Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. that they orchestrated is unforgiveable. He then calls Jericho out, promising to beat him within an inch of his life. When Jericho refuses to show up immediately, Adam Cole threatens to come find him. Jericho's music hits, then we find out he is backstage. Jericho says that he does not want to be anywhere near a man like Cole who will allow the love of his life to be beaten in front of his eyes and do nothing, and calls Adam Cole a coward. He then says that while he wants nothing to do with him, the rest of the Jericho Appreciation Society does. As the rest of the Society goes on the attack, Orange Cassidy and Bandido run into the ring, but they are still overpowered. All of a sudden, Roderick Strong suddenly shows up and overpowers the Society to make the save for Adam Cole. Cole and Strong then hug in the middle of the ring.
It's time for QTV. Powerhouse Hobbs grabs QT Marshall and pins him to the wall, and Marshall says there is a conspiracy against them and that Hobbs will become a champion again. Hobbs tells him "Fix it," then leaves. QT then tells the QTV staff to "go to Plan B."
Rampage starts this Friday at 5:30 PM Eastern/2:30 PM Pacific.
Jade Cargill retains the TBS Championship against Taya Valkyrie with an Oklahoma Roll after Taya has to be warned not to use the Road to Valhalla or else become disqualified. After the match, Taya Valkyrie attacks Jade Cargill and Leila Grey and nearly puts Aubrey Edwards in the Road to Valhalla, but the rest of the AEW referees stop her from doing it.
We hear from Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. and Jamie Hayter. Britt says that The Outcasts (Saraya, Toni Storm, Ruby Soho) do not know what they are capable and that she and Hayter are reasonable people until they have a reason not to be. Hayter chews out The Outcasts for declaring war against them and that the only way this will end is if they send them to the morgue.
We see a video package for "Absolute" Ricky Starks and Shawn Spears vs. "Rock Hard" Juice Robinson and "Switchblade" Jay White.
"The American Nightmare" Bryan Danielson guests on commentary for the next match.
Kenny Omega and Konosuke Takeshita beat The Butcher and The Blade.
After the match, "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson says Omega is coasting off of his legacy and that Takeshita would be a "world beater" if he trained with the best instead of The Elite. The rest of The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta) then show up and attack Takeshita and Omega from behind, but as Danielson threatens to attack Omega with a screwdriver, The Young Bucks show up and level Castagnoli and Yuta before doing the same to Moxley in the ring. As Omega is about to attack Moxley with the screwdriver, Takeshita begs Omega not to do it, and that allows The Blackpool Combat Club to get the better of Omega and raise Takeshita's hand. Danielson tells Takeshita that he wants to be part of The Blackpool Combat Club, but Yuta hits Takeshita with a low blow and Moxley hits Takeshita with the screwdriver.
The D'Angelo Family (Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo) beat Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) in a Trunk Match. After the match, Tony D'Angelo and Channing Lorenzo drive off in the car.
We hear from Tiffany Stratton, who says that she will give the fans a break when she takes her place at the top of the women's division when she beats Roxanne Perez and Indi Hartwell for the NXT Women's Championship.
Backstage, Duke Hudson meets with Andre Chase, who is gathering his thoughts. He knows that it will be a battle against Bron Breakker, but he must stand up for himself and for Chase University, and Chase says he will give Breakker a Chase University-sized ass whupping.
Bron Breakker beats Andre Chase with the Steiner Recliner.
We see a video package for Carmelo Hayes.
Backstage, Mackenzie Mitchell tries to interview Ilja Dragunov, but Dragunov gets booted in the face by Dijak, who proceeds to throw Dragunov into multiple ladders and trap him underneath a steel sliding door. Multiple officials try to restore order.
Cora Jade beats Lyra Valkyria as the referee tries to keep Cora Jade from using her Kendo stick.
Outside of the arena, Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo are driving around when Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) start making noises. Stacks slams the trunk door on them several times, then tells D'Angelo it was nothing.
Carmelo Hayes retains the NXT Championship against Grayson Waller. After the match, Carmelo Hayes challenges Bron Breakker for the NXT Championship at Battlegrounds on May 28th while simultaneously calling him out. When Bron Breakker shows up, Trick Williams sees Bron Breakker rushing in from behind, but Bron Breakker lays him out and powerslams Carmelo Hayes before putting Trick in the Steiner Recliner. Breakker then puts Carmelo Hayes through part of the stage with a Spear, and Carmelo Hayes has to be taken out on a stretcher.
We hear from Roxanne Perez, who talks about how her friends wanted to be more like Disney princesses and how she saw WWE for the first time and got hooked. After talking about how she represents young female fans who want to be seen, she says she has a chance to win back the NXT Women's Championship and do it not just for herself, but for those fans.
Backstage, Joe Coffey is met by Joe Gacy. Ava Raine also shows up and says The Dyad (Rip Fowler and Jagger Reid) want a far tag team title match, and Gacy knows that Joe Coffey wants to punch him in the face and tells him that he can get the chance to do so next week. Ava Raine adds that if Joe Coffey wins, The Dyad cannot challenge for the NXT Tag Team Championships as long as Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, Wolfgang) are champions. Joe Coffey accepts the challenge.
Josh Briggs and Fallon Henley beat Brooks Jensen and Kiana James in a mixed tag tea match after Jensen tosses Kiana's bag at Briggs and misses. After the match, Kiana tries to slap Jensen, but Jensen catches the slap, Kiana tells Jensen that she never loved him, takes her bag and leaves. Afterwards, Briggs tells Jensen he is still there for him.
Backstage, Mackenzie Mitchell interviews Dragon Lee, who says that he has seen a little of what Noam Dar can do and that he will show him what heritage is when they meet again. Suddenly, a message from Scrypts is shown on the nearby screen, where Scrypts says that he has gotten to Axiom and that everyone will learn who believes in themselves more between the two of them.
Oba Femi debuts next!
We hear from Indi Hartwell, who says that is has been a long year and that the NXT Women's Championship was all she ever wanted. She says everyone can say what they want, but she fought hard for the title and that this was the result of a long career in WWE. Indi then says it can be undone in three seconds, but it will not happen tonight.
Oba Femi beats Oro Mensah. After the match, Gigi Dolin takes a commentary headset and calls out Jacy Jayne for involving her family in everything and mocking her life choices and tells her that her baby brother will be watching at ringside when she pounds her face in.
Backstage, Mackenzie Mitchell interviews Drew Gulak and Charlie Dempsey. Both of them agree that Wes Lee uses his talents improperly as he defends the North American title at a record pace, and Drew Gulak says he will break Wes Lee, telling him this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Backstage, Tyler Bate meets with Wes Lee and says he is worried that Wes will wear himself out. Wes Lee says he is okay, but Tyler Bate asks to be in his corner to bring some balance. Wes Lee agrees to the idea.
Despite injuring her leg and being taken to the back, Indi Hartwell retains the NXT Women's Championship against Roxanne Perez and Tiffany Stratton in a Triple Threat Match.
We find out that Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo have thrown Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) into the ocean, and that they are focusing on the NXT Tag Team Championships. They then head out to celebrate.
Backstage, we hear from Brock Andesron and Brian Pillman Jr. Anderson says wrestling is a family business, and while some people get into the business for fun or money, they are in it because it is in their blood and that it is the reason why they have a roof over their head and food on their table. Pillman says they do not have a choice and that wrestling is the one thing they do best, and because they have "looks that kill and the lineage that will."
"All Heart" Blake Christian beats "Big Shotty" Lee Johnson.
Brock Anderson and Brian Pillman Jr. beat The Wingmen (Cezar Bononi and "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth) with an inside cradle from Anderson to Nemeth.
Mei Suruga and Emi Sakura beat Reka Tehaka and Ashley D'Amboise.
Backstage, we hear from "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth. He says he has more in common with the fans that the fans might think, as he went into a expensive private school for all of twelve years and an extremely elite Division I college where he thrived academically and athletically. He then went through a very dark job and had to get a real job for three months, and holds back tears as he says this. He then says that he made it and has become the man everyone knows today, and tells everyone not to give up. He then asks the director if the tears were real enough and if that was good enough, then tells everyone to put what he just said on social media as he leaves.
"The Reality" Zack Clayton beats Jake Logan.
The Dark Order (Alex Reynolds and John Silver) beat The Varsity Athletes ("The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese and "The Technical Beast" Josh Woods).
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Cody says anything could to happen to him in the WWE Draft and mentions "the unenviable task" he has in beating Brock Lesnar at Backlash and the in-ring betrayal leading up to it. He then removes his watch and tie, throws the tie into the crowd and does the same with his button-down shirt and shows off the scar from his torn pec at Hell In A Cell . After admitting he has not watched that match with Seth Rollins back, he dares Brock Lesnar to pick a spot on him and leave another scar there, as he has not learned from the one from his torn pec. Cody says that when it came to that night, a sold-out arena carried him on their shoulder and took him to the finish line, then says that he and the fans have shared milestones and have more to come before thanking the fans for their support. All of a sudden, Finn Balor shows up and says "We all got scars, mate," then says Cody got screwed at WrestleMania because he had nobody there to have his back. He also says that Cody trusted "the wrong man" when he trusted Lesnar and that he needs to be smarter like him, and that Cody is now in a match that he cannot win on his own. Cody says that he thought there was some mutual respect between them at first, then says that whatever Finn is selling, he is not buying. Finn says the both of them and that the fans know that Cody and The Judgment Day (Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley, Dominik Mysterio) would be unstoppable. Finn brags about Rhea Ripley winning the SmackDown Women's Championship, Damian Priest putting Bad Bunny through a table and Dominik Mysterio proving that he is greater than his father Rey Mysterio ever was, saying it is something Cody should try. Finn tells Cody that he made a mistake at WrestleMania and to not make the same mistake at Backlash, and to let The Judgment Day have his back. Cody declines Finn's offer and extends his hand. Finn says this is a real pity, and tells Cody that he is either with The Judgment Day or against him, and tells him to watch his back as he will slap the bleach out of his head one day. Cody stops Finn, saying that Finn is under the impression that he is not medically cleared to compete, then tells him that he is medically cleared to compete tonight and challenges Finn to a match to send a message to Brock Lesnar.
The Bloodline (Jimmy Uso, Jey Uso, Solo Sikoa) beat The Latino World Order (Santos Escobar, Joaquin Wilde, Cruz del Toro) in a six-man tag match after Solo Sikoa and Jey Uso distract the referee so that Solo Sikoa can hit Cruz del Toro with the Samoan Spike before The Usos hit del Toro with the 1D. After the match, Jey Uso says that in one bad night, he and Jimmy Uso lost the tag team titles and let down the Bloodline, then Jimmy Uso says that this week, they will win the tag team titles back and dedicate their match to Roman Reigns.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Bianca Belair. Bianca says Iyo Sky has proven she is a worthy competitor and that she stays ready, then Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky) shows up. Bayley tells Bianca to count down the days that she loses her title, and Iyo Sky interrupts as Bayley talks about how good Iyo Sky is. Dakota Kai then says Iyo Sky wants to face Bianca tonight. Bianca accepts, then Bayley makes it a six-woman tag match. Bianca is also up for a six-woman tag match, and tells Damage CTRL she will see them in the ring.
Backstage, Jey Uso is on the phone, saying that The Bloodline have gotten the win. He suddenly runs into Sami Zayn, who says that he has heard what Jey Uso has had to say and questions why Jey Uso wants to win the tag titles for Roman Reigns and not for himself. He then says that he and Kevin Owens will not lose the tag team titles, then asks Jey what will happens if he loses and reminds him that it may not be good. Jey asks Sami why he even cares, and Sami says he feels bad. Jey tells Sami not to feel bad for him, as The Usos will take the tag team titles back, and tells him not to worry about The Bloodline anymore because he and Sami have both made their choices.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Trish Stratus. Trish says Becky Lynch is not doing so good and that Becky has told her she has had a hard time with the pressure of being a mom and the star of the women's division, then says that she can do the same thing and that she is thriving while Becky is not. She says that she could see the pressure making her crumble and that she put Becky out of her misery, and that Becky should be thanking her.
The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin.
Triple H heads to the ring. He says that as a WWE Superstar, he had the privilege of competing at the highest level and defending the WWE Championship against John Cena at WrestleMania 22, and now he has the privilege of ensuring that WWE is all it can be in the future. Triple H then brings up Roman Reigns coming up at 1,000 days as champion and says that after what Roman has done, he cannot name too many people who can hang with Roman, who he says is "that damn good." He also says that Roman Reigns negotiated himself into a position where he did not have to defend the undisputed WWE Universal Championship as frequently, and while it is great for Roman, it is not great for WWE. Triple H says that WWE - and the fans - deserve more than that, and states his previous announcement that the draft would change WWE to its very core. He says that Roman will stay Universal Champion on the brand he is on, then states that the other brand will decide a new champion. He then announces that the other brand will decide a new WWE World Heavyweight Champion, complete with a new belt design, at Night of Champions on May 27th, and says that this will be a champion that fans can respect, admire and be proud of. He says that this champion will defend the title anywhere, any time, all over the world, and that this champion will earn the fans' acknowledgement and the title of WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Damian Priest and Dominik Mysterio. Damian has no problem with Bad Bunny being here and says he was successful when he had his back, but he has no problem putting him through a table if he gets involved again.
We hear from Bronson Reed, who says that nobody in WWE can compete with him because they do not have his strength, speed and power, and even if they did, they just want to be popular while he just wants to win. He tells everyone to be popular, because nobody can measure up to him.
Backstage, Jey Uso is lost in thought, and Jimmy Uso is able to tell. Jey asks Jimmy if he has ever thought about what would happen if they do not win on Friday. When Jey mentions running into Sami Zayn earlier, Jimmy gets angry. Solo calms him down, and Jimmy tells him not to talk to Sami and that they will do what they always do and win the tag team titles back for the family.
Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez beat Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky) in a six-woman tag match.
Austin Theory heads to the ring. Austin Theory says that Bronson Reed and Bobby Lashley want "the Austin Theory experience," as he is the greatest United States Champion of all time. He then asks where his respect his, as he did not choose his opponents for his match. He the notices and addresses the new WWE World Heavyweight Championship on the pedestal and says it should be around his waist, as he is the man who has earned it. Theory then mentions that he does not have to be pinned to lose the United States Championship at Backlash, then counters the "You Suck" chant by reminding the fans that he beat John Cena at WrestleMania. The crowd chants "You tapped out!," which leads to Theory saying that the fans tapped out because they are in their seats watching the greatest. Bobby Lashley then heads to the ring. Lashley says the only problem he has with Theory is that Theory is holding his title and running his mouth about being the greatest United States Champion of all time before asking him when he will step up and face all comers. He says that he has been in the ring with Theory and that he knows how tough Theory is, and that Theory does not know how good he is, then asks Theory if he is lazy and doesn't want to work or if he is scared. Lashley says Theory should welcome every opportunity to fight for the title, because he would, and admits that he requested the Triple Threat Match for the United States title. Theory then asks Lashley where his WrestleMania match was. Lashley tells Theory he should knock his teeth down his throat for saying that, and Theory says he should before going for a cheap shot. This leads to a brawl between both men, and Bronson Reed shows up in the middle of it. Theory and Bronson gang up on Lashley and attack him at the ring post, and Theory hits Lashley with the A-Town Down in the middle of the ring. Bronson then attacks Theory and hits him with the Tsunami. Bronson then holds up the WWE United States Championship.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Elias, Rick Boogs and Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis) talk about the WWE Draft and how it has broken teams up, and that he has ensured Alpha Academy stays together. Maxxine Dupri shows up and says she she has ensured that she and Otis stay on the same brand. Mustafa Ali shows up and says Chad Gable is worried about losing Otis, but he could reach his true potential and become the new World Heavyweight Champion, assuming this doesn't end Gable's life as he knows it and turns him into a loser. This leads to a match between Gable and Ali.
Mustafa Ali beats Chad Gable after reversing a deadlift German suplex into an Oklahoma roll.
Backstage, Jimmy Uso confronts Sami Zayn for "playing mind games," and tells Sami that he and Jey Uso will take back what is theirs. He also tells Sami that Kevin Owens used him to get the tag team titles and will turn on him when they lose. He then tells Sami to worry about himself, not Jey.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Finn Balor.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins heads to the ring. Rollins looks at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship on the pedestal at ringside and mentions that the title is an opportunity for everyone to fight and push the industry forward. He says that if a new World Heavyweight Champion is to be crowned at Night of Champions, he is the one to put money on. Suddenly, Omos and MVP show up. MVP says that he respects Rollins immediately and calls him one of the most aggressive Superstars to grace a WWE ring, and says he has accomplished everything that can be accomplished, and aside from his fashion choices, he is brilliant. He then says it is his responsibility to give Omos "giant matches," and proclaims that a win over Rollins would be huge, then cautions Rollins about predicting his future when he might not have much of one after Backlash. Rollins tells MVP that he has undersold Omos, as Omos is the largest man he has ever seen in his entire life and is "once in a generation" because he was born that way while he is once in a generation while he made himself that way. He says that he is not afraid of Omos and that he will make him famous at Backlash when his head bounces off the mat.
Backstage, Matt Riddle talks with Kevin Owens about the annexation of Puerto Rico and how they could use it to beat The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso). Sami Zayn shows up and admits that he ended up talking to both of The Usos. Owens tells Sami it is too late for The Usos and that they deserve whatever happens to them. Riddle is more sympathetic, saying he knows what Sami is going through after everyone warned him that Orton would turn on him and that everything will be cool between Sami and Owens.
Rey Mysterio beats Damian Priest by disqualification. During the match, Bad Bunny arrives at the arena. Priest grabs Bad Bunny by the neck, but Bad Bunny escapes and hits Priest in the back of the legs before Priest retreats. Bad Bunny then grabs a microphone and tells Damian Priest that he is not hosting Backlash anymore because he is coming to Puerto Rico to kick his ass in a street fight.
This week on Raw Talk: Omos and MVP! Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis) and Maxxine Dupri! The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford)!
This episode is a "best-of" episode. Highlights and matches include:
Chaos Project (Luther and Serpentico) and RSP vs. Darby Allin, Jon Moxley, and Eddie Kingston
Andrade el Idolo vs. Frankie Kazarian
Brandon Cutler vs. Konosuke Takeshita
Mazzerati vs. Mercedes Martinez for the ROH Women's World Championship
The Workhorsemen (JD Drake and Anthony Henry) vs. Best Friends (Chucky Taylor and Trent Beretta)
Emi Sakura, The Bunny, Diamante and "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose vs. Julia Hart, Skye Blue, Ryo Mizunami and "Legit" Leyla Hirsch
The Wingmen ("Pretty" Peter Avalon, "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth, Cezar Bononi) vs. Death Triangle (PAC, Penta Oscura, Rey Fenix)
QT Marshall vs. Minoru Suzuki
The Varsity Blonds (Griff Garrison and Brian Pillman Jr.) and The Dark Order (John Silvers and Alex Reynolds) vs. Chaos Project (Luther and Serpentico) and The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster and Anthony Bowens)
David Marquez interviews "Outlandish" Zicky Dice. Zicky says it would be a pleasure to be in Louisville, Kentucky, but that would be a total eye. He asks if this is where they filmed The Hills Have Eyes and asks Marquez "Have you seen these mutants?" After demanding respect and saying the people love him as he is booed, he says that Marquez must hate it here and that he would be happier working for Mickey Mouse. Zicky then says he has unfinished business here as well as a surprise for the fans and that they will see him in action. He says that when all is said and done, they will call this "Dice City Wrestling," then he will fire Marquez first to continue the pattern of Marquez getting fired from every place he has ever worked. After David Marquez tells Zicky Dice that there is no need to get personal, Zicky says he will make it very personal, then asks Marquez if he can borrow five dollars from him while he still has a job.
Technical Difficulties (Raheem de la Suede and "The Deliverer" Moses) beat The Boys (Brandon and Brent Tate) after being attacked by Infrared (Logan James and and Tyler Matrix).
We hear from "The Pope" D'Angelo Dinero. He says he will not take away anything from Dylan Bostic, but he knows who he is, and if Bostic wants to be put over, he will bring him a couple of notches just to bring him back down.
Backstage, "Outlandish" Zicky Dice meets Darien Bengston and immediately decides to take him underneath his wing on the way to his match.
Darien Bengston - who takes "Outlandish" Zicky Dice's place in the match - vs. Robbie Walker ends with Zicky Dice attacking Walker on the outside. After the match, Bengston is reluctant at first, but he soon stomps Walker alongside Zicky Dice, who then tosses the referee out of the ring before saying "It's all part of the plan!"
David Marquez interviews "Pretty" Peter Avalon. Brian Myers soon shows up and says Avalon must be the ugliest man ever nicknamed "Pretty" and says he will give him a complete makeover while promising he will look much better with two black eyes.
"The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater vs. Jason Levi and the aftermath is replayed.
We hear from Rocco Bellagio, who says that he will steal the show and beat Danny Limelight for the United World Championship.
Dylan Bostic beats "The Pope" Elijah Burke after exposing a turnbuckle behind the referee's back and sending The Pope face first into it.
Flex McCalleon guests on commentary for the next match.
Divine beats Big Hoss after Honest grabs Big Hoss' ankle from the outside, allowing Divine to hit Big Hoss with Left For Dead twice.
Backstage, The Mighty Zaddies (Che Cabrera, Bad Dude Tito, "Hysterical" Shane Haste) meet, and Bad Dude Tito says their plan went perfectly. As Shane Haste admires the United World tag team titles, and Che Cabrera credits being on commentary with their win. Shane Haste then says that Cabrera is cool with him. Tito then says they will get all the gold, then says he should their alliance to the test in another match and put everyone on notice as to who the best team is. Everyone is in agreement.
Backstage, Jack Farmer introduces "Filthy" Tom Lawlor. Lawlor says he has heard that the United Wrestling Network is the place to be and that he has won championships everywhere he has went. He says that his friend Danny Limelight has had a great world title reign so far, and that he would love to meet him face-to-face next week.
J-Rod beats Johnnie Robbie.
Backstage, ring announcer Adnan Kureishy is met by The Institution ("Benevolent" Jack Banning, Honest, Divine, Savanna Stone). Jack Banning tells Adnan that he controls the airwaves with the United Television Championship, which protects them from bad journalists and corporate yes-men. He also says that he does not live in Shady Pines and wants him to know that what The Institution are doing is for everyone's benefit. As Divine says he has benefitted from being in The Institution, Alex Gracia interrupts only to get beaten up by Savanna Stone.
Backstage, Johnny Loquasto is met by Jordan Cruz, who demands a rematch for the United Television Championship while calling himself "an American hero." Loquasto, noting that he was champion for 182 days, gives him that rematch next week. When Jordan Cruz also demands that Ju Dizz be banned from ringside, Loquasto adds Ju Dizz to the match instead. Jordan Cruz sees this as a means to kill two birds with one stonea nd thanks Loquasto.
Kevin Martenson retains the United Heritage Championship against Charles "R-Three" Cassus. After the match, Final Destination (Evan Daniels and Bryce Saturn) - who were ejected from ringside - return to attack Martenson.
Jon Moxley beats "The Fallen Angel" Christopher Daniels with a bulldog choke into a sleeper. Amazingly, Moxley and Daniels shake hands after the match.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Jade Cargill and "Smart" Mark Sterling. Sterling says Jade will get rid of Taya Valkyrie next week, and emphasizes that Taya cannot use the Road to Valhalla or else she will be disqualified.
Hook, Isiah Kassidy and The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy) head to the ring. Jeff Hardy says he has worked so hard to get to this moment right now and that he is trying really hard to love himself again, and that the smartest thing for him to do is retire. Jeff Hardy then declares that he will leave AEW at an extreme high than a depressing low. As Matt Hardy gets on the microphone, Stokely Hathaway shows up on the video screen saying that he is pissed and that Matt refuses to get in contact with him regarding their match. Matt says Stokely will know when the time is right, then Stokely teases leaving by saying he is working on being a better man and that he is working on having some patience when The Firm ("All Ego" Ethan Page, Big Bill, Lee Moriarty) suddenly attacks Hook, Kassidy and The Hardys from behind. This does not last long, as The Firm retreats after The Hardys chase after them with chairs.
We hear from Naturally Limitless ("Limitless" Keith Lee and "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes). While Keith Lee has a modicum of respect for Chris Jericho, he would have won had it not been for Swerve Strickland. Dustin Rhodes says that next week on Rampage, they will be in action.
Julia Hart beats Kiera Hogan with Hartless. After the match, Anna Jay A.S. runs into the ring and brawls with Julia Hart, and referees have to restore order.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Christopher Daniels. Daniels says he is not here for just respect, but for victory and championships. Suddenly, Claudio Castagnoli and Wheeler Yuta show up, but Jon Moxley shows up and says Daniels "is cool." After Daniels says that Moxley still has some honor in him, Moxley attacks Daniels, then says that The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, Jon Moxley, "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson) never changed and that everyone else is "out of their damn minds."
Jeff Jarrett, Jay Lethal and FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) beat Slim J and The Varsity Athletes ("The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese, Ari Daivari, "The Technical Beast" Josh Woods) despite Jarrett inadvertently punching Dax when Dax grabs "Smart" Mark Sterling from behind. After the match, Mark Briscoe, who has been watching from backstage, has to play peacemaker between both sides.
We see a video package of Orange Cassidy's reign as AEW All-Atlantic and International Champion.
We hear from The Butcher, The Blade and Kip Sabian. The Blade says that if Kenny Omega and Konosuke Takeshita want to walk around like a couple of tough guys, they will have to get through them first.
El Hijo de Vikingo retains the AAA Megas Championship against Dralistico after Jose the Assistant, Rush and "El Perro Peligroso" Preston Vance get ejected for putting their hands on Vikingo. After the match, Rush, Jose the Assistant and Preston Vance return to attack Vikingo.
Dustin Starr interviews The Posse (Simon and Mr. Chris) at the announce desk. Mr. Chris invites the fans to celebrate the last hour of Derrick King's career, and Simon says everyone knows Derrick King is the only who still believes that he is "greater than great" and that he can either give up and quit or end up in a hearse or a funeral home.
"Big Swole" Justin Cole and Ray Collins beat The Righteous Path (Brother Bruce and Brother Red) by disqualification after Reverend Ash Taylor hits Ray Collins with his collection plate. After the match, Brother Red confronts Justin Cole, but Reverend Ash Taylor holds him back.
Dustin Starr interviews "The GunShow" Brett Michaels at the announce desk. Brett Michaels says that when he screws up, he admits it, and tells K-Toomer to meet him face-to-face so he can tell him that the GunShow Lariat hitting him was his fault. K-Toomer shows up, then Brett says they have been friends for a while and that K-Toomer has made a name for himself. Brett admits to inadvertently hitting him with the GunShow Lariat. K-Toomer says that in this business, mistakes are going to happen, and while he wants the Heritage Championship, the easy way did not work, and he needs to refocus. He says that he has to go through Brett Michaels to get the Heritage Championship, and that the time for him to take the title is now, but everything seems to come back to Brett. He says that it is between the two of them regardless of whether Brett was in on the attacks on him, and Dustin Starr gets out of the way at K-Toomer's request so both men can brawl. Referees quickly intervene. After the commercial break, the brawl is still going, and it also takes the whole locker room to hold both men back. Afterwards, Brett tells K-Toomer to get ready.
Uncle Mikey guests on commentary for the next match (after distracting "Main Event" Brad Skimahorn).
Tim Bosby retains the Memphis Wrestling Internet Championship against "Main Event" Brad Skimahorn after Uncle Phil gets on the apron only for Bosby to knock Bradley into him and hit the ripcord lariat.
Dustin Starr interviews The Posse (Simon and Mr. Chris) at the announce desk again. Simon says if he was the fans' mothers, he would wash all their mouths out with soap, then says that The Posse does not suck and that Derrick King's career ends now. Dustin Starr then interviews Derrick King at the announce desk. Derrick says that Ray Ray Sanders cannot compete right now, but as sure as his name is Derrick King, he will get in the ring and beat both members of The Posse.
Derrick King beats The Posse (Simon and Mr. Chris) to become the Memphis Wrestling Tag Team Championships after Ray Ray Sanders shows up to become Derrick King's tag team partner for the match and manages to kick powder into Simon's face, blinding Simon and causing him to inadvertently slam Mr. Chris. After the match, Ray Ray Sanders celebrates with his family at ringside, and Dustin Starr congratulates the new tag team champions.
Wendy Choo and Valentina Feroz beat Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Kelly Kincaid interview Kale Dixon and Javier Bernal. Bernal says he is all about giving back, and that he is giving another up-and-comer a shot. After Dixon takes off his shirt, Bernal says he sees a lot of himself in Dixon and tells him to be ready and focused for Malik Blade and Edris Enofe. Dixon says their relationship will be good, then he and Bernal leave, but not before Dixon poses in front of the camera and Bernal has to shove him out of the way.
Damon Kemp beats Oro Mensah.
Malik Blade and Edris Enofe beat Javier Bernal and Kale Dixon despite Malik's left knee being targeted throughout the match.
The Judgment Day (Finn Balor and Damian Priest) beat The LWO (Santos Escobar and Rey Mysterio). After the match, Damian Priest mentions Bad Bunny's return on Raw next week and hopes that this visit goes better for him than it did last time.
Backstage, WWE official Adam Pearce is met by Zelina Vega. She says that with the WWE Draft on the horizon and her future in doubt, she wants to control her destiny right now and challenge Rhea Ripley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at Backlash, and as the only Puerto Rican female on the roster, she has to do this for her people and prove herself. After Pearce says he will look into it, Zelina Vega pulls out a light blue sandal and asks Pearce to keep her posted on what Rhea says.
We see a vignette of Shinsuke Nakamura training. We then hear from Karrion Kross, and Scarlett shows up with tarot cards as Kross anything can be gone in an instant and says that the cards - not him - are what hurts people and what took away Drew McIntyre's temperament, Madcap Moss' joy and Rey Mysterio's patience as well as Nakamura's honor.
Braun Strowman and Ricochet beat The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik).
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. Liv rambles about their match, which is happening next, and Raquel tells her to save it for the ring. Liv then simply says "Watch us."
Before the next match, Sonya Deville demands respect from the fans, and Chelsea Green chastises the fans for booing them before teasing throwing water at Liv Morgan again.
Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez retain the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green after Liv throws Chelsea's water into Chelsea's face and Raquel puts her boot on Liv's back from the outside during the pinfall attempt.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Matt Riddle. Riddle says that he sees Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn as "step-bros," then says that tonight, Solo Sikoa will be the one buried underneath the table.
Gunther retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Xavier Woods with a sleeper hold.
We see a video package chronicling the feud between The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) and the team of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn.
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) head to the ring. Jimmy Uso mocks Matt Riddle in a mock interview with Jey Uso, then Jey says that they will complete the mission and bring the undisputed tag titles back home next week and beat Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens and Matt Riddle at Backlash. They also say that their tag team title next week will not be just any rematch and that they will become nine-time tag team champions when Sami and Owens get bodied just like Riddle will get bodied by Solo Sikoa tonight.
Solo Sikoa beats Matt Riddle in a no-disqualification following the interference of The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso), which allows Sikoa to come out from underneath a toppled announce table and hit the Samoan Spike for the win. After the match, The Usos put Matt Riddle through a table with the 1D.
Heath and Rhino beat Jack Prince and Shogun in the BTI Match.
Time Machine (Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley, KUSHIDA) beat "Speedball" Mike Bailey, Jonathan Gresham and Trey Miguel in a six-man tag match.
Backstage, Gia Miller interviews Director of Authority Santino Marella. Marella says he may return to the ring from time to time, but he is not here to rule with an iron firt. He says justice was served and that he has a busy job, then Alisha Edwards shows up wanting to know what Santino will do about PCO. Santino asks here why she is not in her gear for her match, then Alisha hurriedly leaves in a huff. Suddenly, Johnny Swinger and "Outlandish" Zicky Dice shows up, offering to set up a match for Swinger, even paying their opponent themselves. Santino makes the match official.
We hear from "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo, who says that "The New Age of the Virtuosa" has begun.
Alisha Edwards beats Taylor Rising. After the match, Alisha continues to attack Taylor, and Jody Threat runs into the ring and tosses Alisha away from her.
Backstage, Taylor Rising thanks Jody Threat, and Jody tells Taylor not to let anyone push her around. She says that Alisha Edwards will get hers and that she will make sure of it.
Moose beats Yuya Uemura after Brian Myers distracts the referee and Bhupinder Gujjar attacks him.
Jimmy Jacobs interviews Nick Aldis. Aldis thanks the fans for supporting him on his return, then talks about his history in Impact before saying he had not come close to his full potential on his first World title win and that he had to leave to realize that potential. He then says he has his eyes set firmly on the World Championship and on Steve Maclin, and asks him if he understands that he holds the legacy of IMPACT in his hand, then says he is holding a huge weight and that he is ready to pounce on him and usher in a new era. Aldis says he will not be attending Maclin's "Changing of the Guard" ceremony tonight and that he respects Maclin for using his champion's prerogative, then warns Maclin that he has his eye on him.
Before the next match, John Skyler says that the fans witnessed Frankie Kazarian assault them when they were not part of Hardcore War, and for that, they have challenged him to a two-on-one handicap match. He says that they do not care what Kazarian has done or where he has been, because this house was built by "two Good Hands."
Frankie Kazarian beats The Good Hands (Jason Hotch and John Skyler) in a two-on-one handicap match with a crossface chickenwing to Skyler.
We hear from The Coven (Taylor Wilde and KiLynn King), who predict through tarot cards that something new is coming and with that, comes a new balance. They also agree that Deonna Purrazzo is "the virtuosa of nothing," then agree that they should go after her and usher in the age of Aquarius.
We hear from Callihan, who says that "The Death Machine" is back and that he never wanted to join The Design. He says that he planned to tear them apart from within and that he had seven steps of his own to destroy them. Callihan then says that he will run the lives of everyone in The Design, and that he will come for them and destroy them.
Before the next match, Joe Hendry says he has once again graced Toronto, Ontario, Canada with his presence and that he will defend the Digital Media Championship against Sheldon Jean. Hendry mentions Sheldon Jean's history on Big Brother Canada and how he lasted four weeks, then says everyone can last a lifetime in Joe Hendry's house if they say that they believe.
Joe Hendry retains the IMPACT Wrestling Digital Media Championship against Sheldon Jean.
Steve Maclin heads to the ring for the Changing of the Guard Ceremony for the IMPACT World Championship. Maclin talks about how his back was against the wall in February 2021 and how he had to figure out who he was and who he wanted to become, and not long after that, IMPACT gave him that opportunity, and he kicked the door down. He says that he has made it abundantly clear since day one that he wanted to become IMPACT World Champion, and even mentions "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander making a name for himself at the same time. Maclin says that while Alexander had the fame and the glory, his plan was going into action, and now, he is IMPACT World Champion. He then says his mission is not complete and that there is one step left: to beat and humiliate Alexander in his hometown. He says this is not just a changing of the guard ceremony, but an open challenge to anyone in the building who wants to face him for the IMPACT World Champion, so long as they are Canadian. As Maclin entertains the idea of fighting the crowd, Scott D'Amore shows up and reminds Maclin that he gave him the opportunity, and says that he knew Maclin had what it took to be World Champion and congratulates him. He then mentions Maclin altering facts to suit his reality, then asks if he opening a challenge to Canadians to duck Nick Aldis. Maclin gives credit to D'Amore where credit is due, and asks D'Amore when he traded his balls in. D'Amore admits he should not have thrown the World Championship in his face at Rebellion and gave him the opportunity to face him, but Maclin hit him with the belt when his back was turned like a "coward son of a bitch." He says he has made a lot of mistakes, but he has rarely make the same mistake twice, then takes off his suit jacket and undoes his cufflinks before telling him that he will face the "perfect Canadian" in PCO at Under Siege. PCO shows up and powers through Maclin's security only for Maclin to hit him with the belt, but PCO overpowers security and soon beats up Maclin, who crawls between PCO's legs and retreats. As the crowd calls Maclin a coward, PCO puts two members of Maclin's security through a table.
