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.
Note: This week's episode is a replay of the August 20, 2023 episode.
Rocco Bellagio beats Jason Levels.
Backstage, Michael Hopkins and Guy Cool wait for Miggy Rose, and Hopkins has a bad feeling about the wait. "Pretty" Peter Avalon shows up and says that Miggy Rose has been involved in a car accident and that he is in the hospital and is okay, and that Guy Cool may have to step up to the plate to keep the tag match alive.
Backstage, Big Hoss and Rob McKnight meet with Peter Avalon regarding The Institution ("Benevolent" Jack Banning, Brendan Divine, Honest John, Savanna Stone). "Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams shows up and challenges Rob McKnight and Big Hoss, and proposes tagging with a ticket-paying fan. Avalon makes this the main event.
24K (Guy Cool and Michael Hopkins) beat The Institution (Brendan Divine and Honest John) after Guy Cool manages to outsmart The Institution. After the match, Brendan Divine and Honest John argue with each other and shove each other. "Benevolent" Jack Banning has to get between them, and when he shoves John, Savanna Stone shows up and hits Divine from behind. All of a sudden, The Institution turn on Divine and attack him, and Banning puts Divine in a guillotine choke.
Backstage, Jeremy McPete interviews Brittnie Brooks. Brittnie says it felt good to get her first win, even if it were by disqualification, and says that neither she nor Savanna Stone can control Savanna Stone's emotions. Johnnie Robbie shows up and talks about her first win, then calls herself an exception to the rules as she can make them and break them before telling Brittnie she will see her in the ring.
Johnnie Robbie beats Brittnie Brooks.
Backstage, Jeremy McPete interviews Kevin Martenson, who says that while he is not sure what Bateman is trying to do, he knows it did not work, and that Bateman should not be playing mind games with him. He tells Bateman he will see him when he is ready.
Before the next match, "Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams says that he likes it in California so much that he has decided to stay a little longer, then sticks to his word about picking any ticket-bearing fan in the crowd as his tag team partner. After telling the fans to raise up their tickets, Aaron Williams picks Lord Crewe, who - despite being banned from Championship Wrestling after a loser leaves town match - actually has a ticket to the show. The match then starts.
"Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams and Lord Crewe beat Rob McKnight and Big Hoss (now known as "Wild West") after Lord Crewe goes low while Aaron Williams distracts the referee.
It is announced that Keith Lee is not medically cleared to compete against Swerve Strickland, and that he will be replaced by "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes.
Stokely Hathaway guests on commentary for the next match.
Willow Nightingale beats Kris Statlander on Zero Hour.
We hear from Serena Deeb, who says that she has locked herself into a dojo and has trained and watched the women's division extensively. She says she can break out of any hold and has become the woman of a thousand holds, and now, she has returned.
Killswitch last eliminates Trent Beretta to win a 20-man battle royal and a shot at the AEW TNT Championship on Zero Hour.
Before the next match, Wheeler Yuta says Hook has been sticking his nose where it does not belong, which is no surprise given where he is from, and asks if there is any redeeming quality about Long Island, New York. He makes fun of the local hockey team, then the New York Islanders' goal horn keeps blaring as Wheeler Yuta addresses Taz before Hook shows up.
Hook retains the FTW Championship against Wheleer Yuta under FTR Rules on Zero Hour after breaking a hockey stick over Wheeler's back and using it to make Wheeler tap to Redrum.
"Daddy Magic" Matt Menard guests on commentary for the next match.
The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli and "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson), Mark Briscoe and Daniel Garcia beat Brody King, Jay Lethal, Rush and "Switchblade" Jay White in an eight-man tag match following a jackknife pin from Daniel Garcia to Jay Lethal after Garcia hits Brody King with a Saito suplex. After the match, Brody King hits "Daddy Magic" Matt Menard in the jaw off camera in disgust.
Miro beats Andrade el Idolo with Game Over after CJ Perry breaks up the Figure Eight on the outside.
"Timeless" Toni Storm retains the AEW Womens' World Championship against Riho. After the match, Mariah May shows up with a champagne bucket, then throws rose petals all over a celebrating Toni Storm.
AEW sends condolences to the families of Masashi Ozawa (aka Killer Khan) and "Mad Kurt" Kurtis Chapman.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Dante Martin. Dante says he has been doing good, but he needs to do great, because injury set him back from being a champion. He got a win yesterday, but he almost got a win over a champion. Orange Cassidy shows up, and Dante takes the challenge for the International title, saying he needs the title. Orange dares him to try to take it.
Swerve Strickland beats a defiant "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes with two House Calls, an arm breaker and the Swerve Stomp after Dustin dares Swerve to do his worst and flips him off twice.
Chris Jericho, Sammy Guevara, Sting and Darby Allin beat Big Bill, "Absolute" Ricky Starks and The Don Callis Family ("The Alpha" Konosuke Takeshita and Powerhouse Hobbs) in an eight-man tag match. (During the match, Jericho is booed and showered with "NDA" chants following rumors that Jericho took part in an act of sexual harassment backstage in AEW back in 2019.)
Julia Hart retains the AEW TBS Championship against Abadon. Abadon's House Rules stipulation for the match is that biting is legal. During the match, Skye Blue shows up and shoves Abadon off the top rope, but Abadon immediately rises and goes after Skye Blue and attacks her, giving Julia the opportunity to finish Abadon off.
Adam Copeland beats Christian Cage in a no-disqualification match to become the AEW TNT Champion after nearly putting "The Prodigy" Nick Wayne through a flaming table with a powerbomb. After the match, Copeland is attacked from behind by Killswitch, who proceeds to choke slam him before doing it again through an opened metal folding chair. After the match, Killswitch is about to cash in his shot at the TNT Championship when Christian demands he give him the contract. Killswitch gives in after Christian whispers into his ear. Christian then signs the contract, and he gets his title rematch. Christian hits Copeland with a Spear to regain the TNT Championship, ending Copeland's reign three minutes after it started. Afterwards, Copeland has to be helped to the back.
"The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson guests on commentary for the next match.
Eddie Kingston beats Jon Moxley to win the Continental Classic, retain the Ring of Honor World Championship, retain the New Japan Pro Wrestling Strong Openweight Championship, become the inaugural AEW Continental Champion, and win the Continental Crown. After the match, the AEW Continental Championship is revealed as it is handed over to Eddie Kingston. Eddie and Moxley then hug in a show of respect afterwards.
We see a video package of people from Long Island, New York saying that MJF is the best wrestler and their scumbag before the next match. Adam Cole also shows up before the next match to stand in MJF's corner.
Samoa Joe beats MJF with the Coaquina Clutch to become the AEW World Champion! After the match, the crowd chants "Bullshit!" as Adam Cole tells MJF that he gave Joe everything he had. All of a sudden, The Devil's Masked Men show up as Cole is still in the ring, and they attack both MJF and Adam Cole. As both Adam Cole and MJF are held down and both of them dare one of the men with a chair to hit him, the lights go out. When they come back on, Adam Cole is sitting in the chair with the masked men, who reveal themselves to be The Kingdom (Matt Taven and Mike Bennett), Roderick Strong and Wardlow. The Kingdom are revealed to be the Ring of Honor World Tag Team Champions, and MJF is ganged up on before Adam Cole produces The Devil's mask from out of his jacket.
Note: This week's episode is a "best of 2023" episode. Matches and moments include:
#10: The special appearances - Bushwhacker Luke; Episode 106, March 4, 2023 / "The Real1" NZO; Episode 134, September 15, 2023 / Prince Nana; Episode 144, November 25, 2023
#9: "The Boogie Woogie Man" Jimmy Valiant's guest appearance; Episode 148, December 23, 2023
#8: The Halloween Costume Contest; Episode 140, October 28, 2023
#7: The Monster Brawl Battle Royal; Episode 140, October 28, 2023
#6: Austin and Nikki Lane Attack Jerry Lynn; Episode 116, May 13, 2023 / Austin Lane confronts Dr. Tom Prichard; Episode 127, July 29, 2023
#5: Winner Takes All - The Lane Dynasty vs. Tim Bosby and McKenzie Morgan for the Memphis Wrestling Internet and Women's Championships; Episode 144, November 25, 2023
#4: Tim & Lance Arrive; Episode 117, May 20, 2023 / Son Betrays Father; Episode 127, July 29, 2023
#3: Mr. Crisp; Episode 140, October 28, 2023 / The Prodigal Son; Episode 142, November 11, 2023
#2: The Nightmare Ends - "The GunShow" Bret Michaels vs. "The Genetic Nightmare" Mike Anthony for the Memphis Wrestling Heritage Championship; Episode 100, January 21, 2023
We see a video package of other great moments that did not make the top ten.
#1: Viral Table Crash; Episode 130, August 19, 2023 / Against All Odds - McKenzie Morgan vs. "The Goddess of the Night" Nyxx for the Memphis Wrestling Women's Championship; Episode 132, September 2, 2023
Chris Jericho heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Jericho talks about the events between him and Sammy Guevara and the aftermath from Dynamite, then talks about how he and Sting will be teaming at Worlds End. He says that after their no holds barred match, Sting told him that he respects him and has his back, and he was true to his word. Jericho then asks Sammy Guevara to come to the ring, as he still has some loose ends to take care of between himself and Sammy. Sammy shows up and heads to the ring. Jericho asks Sammy why he joined Don Callis' family. Sammy says it is hard being in Jericho's shadow, and that he started blaming Jericho for not being where he wanted to be, and that it was him who held himself back, not Jericho. Sammy says that it is time to get to work and be the man he should have been back then after months of watching and thinking after his concussion and the birth of his son, then apologizes to Jericho. Jericho accepts Sammy's apology, then admits that he is a bit controlling but is still one of his biggest fans. He says he knows Don Callis can be manipulative and leech off young guys who doubt themselves, and that he will always believe in Sammy. Jericho then says that he still needs a partner for his tag team title match after Worlds End, and asks Sammy if he will reunite with him and bring back Le Sex Gods. Sammy hugs Jericho, confirming the reunion.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Daniel Garcia and "Daddy Magic" Matt Menard. Menard says Garcia's win against Brody King was the biggest of Garcia's career, then Garcia says that he is sick of people like The House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, Buddy Matthews) walking over people like him and Menard and that they have them in their sights.
Ruby Soho beats "The Problem" Marina Shafir following the distraction from Harley Cameron in a match that also sees "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose chase Saraya through the crowd when Cameron's attacks against Nyla prove to be ineffective.
Backstage, we hear from The Don Callis Family (Don Callis, Konosuke Takeshita, Powerhouse Hobbs, Kyle Fletcher), Big Bill and "Absolute" Ricky Starks. Don Callis says that Chris Jericho's world will end tomorrow, as does Konosuke Takeshita, Powerhouse Hobbs, and Kyle Fletcher. Big Bill says they will beat everyone, and Starks calls their eight-man tag match at Worlds End his retirement gift to Sting.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interview Kris Statlander and Willow Nightingale. Willow wants to know that she and Kris are on good terms after Stokely Hathaway's recent words, as she wants to tag with Kris at Worlds End. Stokely shows up and wants them one-on-one at Worlds End, and while Willow is reluctant, Kris likes the idea and shakes hands on it.
Wheeler Yuta retains the Ring of Honor Pure Championship against Matt Sydal. After the match, Danhausen shows up and appoints himself "the fourth judge" and has kept an eye on him before disqualifying him for a closed fist to Sydal's face behind the referee's back and declaring him the loser. Wheeler Yuta responds by laying Danhausen out and telling him to kiss his ass before hitting him with elbows. All of a sudden, Hook shows up and chases Yuta out of the ring.
We see a video package of the aftermath of Samoa Joe betraying MJF on Dynamite.
Action Andretti and Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) beat Best Friends (Orange Cassidy, Trent Beretta, "Azucar" Rocky Romero) in a trios match.
This week's episode is a recap episode with no new matches. Matches and moments include:
Kevin Owens vs. Carmelo Hayes from last week's SmackDown
We hear from Paul Heyman, who calls 2023 "a three-peat" for Roman Reigns with 1,212 days as champion while listing a who's who of opponents that Roman Reigns has beaten throughout the year, then states that no one will unseat Roman in 2024. He also says that 2024 is a leap year and brings one extra day to acknowledge the Tribal Chief.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins' interview from this week's Raw
Santos Escobar vs. Bobby Lashley from last week's SmackDown
"Main Event" Jey Uso's interview from this week Raw
The events leading up to Randy Orton vs. LA Knight vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles on next week's SmackDown
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles vs. Solo Sikoa from last week's SmackDown
Note: This week's episode is a "best of 2023" episode. Matches and moments include:
LA Knight introduces everyone to tonight's show.
John Cena vs. Solo Sikoa, Crown Jewel 2023
We hear from John Cena, who says that he will never forget the respect and reception that he got this year. He says he does not know how much time he has left in WWE, but he has always been welcomed as one of the fans' own whenever he returns. He thanks the fans as he says that he looks forward to his next return, and for making 2023 memorable.
We hear from Bobby Lashley and The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). Lashley says that they want more. Angelo Dawkins says that 2024 will be the year that they get all the gold.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn vs. The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships, WrestleMania 39
Cathy Kelley interviews Kevin Owens. Owens says winning the tag team gold was an incredible moment and that it was a shame how it all ended, then says he is focused on the United States Championship and taking it from Logan Paul. He says that Logan Paul being champion is a nightmare and that he will make it go away and restore prestige to the title, broken hand or not.
We hear from Austin Theory and Grayson Waller. Both of them look forward to winning gold, winning big matches and headlining WrestleMania before noticing that Kevin Owens is on the social media ticker and getting upset.
The Rock beating up Austin Theory; SmackDown, September 15, 2023
Jackie Redmond and Corey Graves interview Bianca Belair.
Bianca Belair, Charlotte Flair, Shotzi, and Becky Lynch vs. Damage CTRL (Bayley, Asuka, Iyo Sky, Kairi Sane) in WarGames; Survivor Series WarGames 2023
Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, Asuka, Iyo Sky, Kairi Sane) look back on all the good things that happened to them in 2023 and look forward to Iyo Sky retaining the WWE Women's Championship against "Michin" Mia Yim next week.
We look back on the life and career of Bray Wyatt.
We look back on WWE live events taking place in the last week, including at Magison Square Garden.
We hear from General Manager Nick Aldis, who is glad to be General Manager before announcing that 2024 will kick off on another level next week. Suddenly, Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) show up wanting a tag team title match with The Judgment Day (Finn Balor and Damian Priest) instead of Butch and a tag team partner of his choosing next week. Pretty Deadly get denied.
Logan Paul vs. Rey Mysterio for the WWE United States Championship, Crown Jewel 2023
Santos Escobar turns on the Latino World Order (Rey Mysterio, Zelina Vega, Joaquin Wilde, Cruz del Toro, Carlito)
Jackie Redmond and Corey Graves interview Rey Mysterio.
Jackie Redmond and Corey Graves interview Paul Heyman, who shows up at the studio. Heyman leaves after calling Jimmy Uso, who finishes the interview.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, WrestleMania 39
Note: This week's show is part two of the best of 2023. Matches and moments include:
Nick Aldis vs. Alex Shelley for the IMPACT World Championship, Slammiversary 2023
Alex Shelley is the Male Wrestler of the Year for 2023.
Subculture (Mark Andrews and "Flash" Morgan Webster) vs. Brian Myers and Moose vs. Rich Swann and Sami Callihan vs. ABC ("Inevitable" Ace Austin and Chris Bey) for the IMPACT World Tag Team Championships, Slammiversary 2023
KENTA vs. Chris Sabin for the IMPACT X Division Championship, Bound For Glory 2023
"Speedball" Mike Bailey is X Division Star of the Year for 2023.
"The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander vs. Alex Shelley for the IMPACT World Championship, Bound For Glory 2023
Mickie James vs. Trinity for the IMPACT Knockouts World Championship, Bound For Glory 2023
The Match of the Year 2023 is "Speedball" Mike Bailey vs. Will Ospreay from Bound For Glory 2023.
"Speedball" Mike Bailey vs. Will Ospreay, Bound For Glory 2023
"The Native Beast" Nyla Rose beats Alejandra Lion.
Zak Knight beats "Pretty" Peter Avalon.
We hear from "Legit" Leyla Hirsch, Kiera Hogan, Lady Frost, Rachael Ellering and Billie Starkz prior to the tournament for the ROH Women's World Television Championship Tournament.
Backstage, we hear from Athena, Lexy Nair and Billie Starkz in their M.I.T. Meeting. Athena says that Billie is going to beat everyone in the Women's Television title tournament, and Billie says that she has a new goal and that every "hussy" in the tournament should know what they are in for.
"The Bounty Hunter" Bryan Keith and The Von Erichs (Ross and Marshall Von Erich) beat The Iron Savages (Boulder, Bronson, Jacked Jameson) in a six-man tag match with simultaneous Iron Claws to Boulder and Bronson.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Griff Garrison and Cole Karter. As Karter is irritated with Maria being gone for the week to spend Christmas with her family, Spanish Announce Project (Angelico and Serpentico) show up and blame Garrison and Karter for their loss last week, which leads to Garrison challenging them to a match next week.
Taya Valkyrie and The Renegades (Charlette and Robyn Renegade) beat Trish Adora, Lady Frost and Kiera Hogan in a six-woman tag match.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews "Legit" Leyla Hirsch and Rachael Ellering. Leyla says that Maria showed her true colors and only cares about the spotlight while she and Rachael only care about winning. As Rachael says that they are focused on competition, Diamante and Mercedes Martinez show up to challenge them for a fight, saying they have their competition right here, even as Leyla reminds them that they lost their recent street fight.
Before the next match, "Smart" Mark Sterling talks about "The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese's loss to "All Ego" Ethan Page before saying lesser men or any man from Texas would not be able to get out of bed afterwards and that Tony Nese flew to Texas to entertain everyone. He also says that everyone was cheering for the downfall of a man who just wanted to get everyone in shape, then says there will be no more helping the fans or the people in the back, and instead, the fans will witness the rebirth of Tony Nese as he knocks his opponent's head off.
"The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese beats Joey Hyder.
Billie Starkz beats Vertvixen.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Kyle Fletcher, who says that the ROH World Television Championship is now the most important title in the world because he is holding it, and that everyone is witnessing a star being born and that he will go down as one of the gretest of all time. He says that to get there, he has to be the best World Television Champion in history, and that starts next week with an open challenge. All of a sudden, Willie Mack shows up to answer the open challenge, stating that a new constellation is forming and it looks like him breaking his foot in Kyle Fletcher's ass when he beats him for the Television title.
"All Ego" Ethan Page beats Johnny TV following the distraction from Dalton Castle.
Jon Moxley beats "Switchblade" Jay White and Swerve Strickland in the Gold League Finals of the Continental Classic.
Backstage, Tony Schiavone interviews Prince Nana and Swerve Strickland. Swerve says he wanted the AEW World Championship badly and that he has proved he is one of the best in the industry, then says that if Keith Lee is looking for him, then he will be at Worlds End. Tony Schiavone then produces a contract for Swerve vs. Keith Lee, and when Prince Nana says that he has not approved of the match, Swerve says that they will simply see if Keith Lee will show up on Saturday.
Renee Paquette interviews Mariah May on the stage. Mariah says she attacked Riho in support of "Timeless" Toni Storm, then announces that her debut will be next week on the first Dynamite of 2024 because 2023 did not have enough energy and 2024 is all about her. Riho shows up, and Mariah May runs away before Toni Storm shows up and brawls with Riho in the ring. Riho gets the upper hand, and Toni gets out of the ring as quickly as she gets in. That does not stop Riho from hitting Toni and Luther with a top rope cross body on the outside.
Backstage, we hear from Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) and Action Andretti. Dante says they came up short against The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster, Anthony Bowens, "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn), but there are other trios they can match up against. As Darius issues an open challenge, Orange Cassidy, Rocky Romero and Trent Beretta show up, and Orange says they will see them Friday. Action Andretti then takes a plastic water bottle and squashes the bottom, downing the entire contents in about three seconds.
We hear from Miro, who says that he thought that wrestling poisoned CJ Perry only to realize CJ poisoned him. He says he is done avoiding people and that he is ready to destroy everyone, and he wants to fight Andrade not because he is CJ's client, but because he is an asshole.
Tony Schiavone interviews The Don Callis Family (Don Callis, Powerhouse Hobbs, Kyle Fletcher, Konosuke Takeshita) in the ring. Don Callis says that the last two weeks have been very difficult and that he could not get through it without his family. He then reveals some "Boxing Week" gifts for the family in the form of highly stylized paintings. Before Don Callis can say much else, Sammy Guevara shows up and interrupts Callis, but Callis reveals that he has a special painting for Sammy. Sammy unveils it to see a group painting of the family with Guevara, which also has Guevara's newborn child on it. Sammy takes offense to his new child being in the painting, and Callis says Sammy is not mentally capable of raising a child and needs all the help he can get. Sammy accuses Callis of clouding his accomplishments and says Callis never called him recently. Callis says that Sammy dropped the ball when he got injured and didn't show up for five months, then gives Sammy the choice of "the other family" or his family. He also tells Sammy to answer carefully before he is remembered as much of a failure of a wrestler as he is a parent. Sammy shoves Callis, and he is attacked by The Don Callis Family before Chris Jericho shows up and goes on the attack with a baseball bat. Jericho then smashes three of the paintings before llowing Sammy the satisfaction of smashing the picture with him and his newborn child in it, which Sammy does. Sammy then hugs Jericho, then Big Bill and Ricky Starks attack them. The lights go out, and when they come back on, Sting and Darby Allin are in the ring. Starks is tossed out of the ring while Big Bill is ganged up on with baseball bats.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Roderick Strong. Roddy and The Kingdom (Matt Taven and Mike Bennett) reveal their research that reveals that all roads lead to MJF, and says that he will prove MJF is The Devil.
Eddie Kingston beats "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson in the Blue League Finals of the Continental Classic. After the match, Jon Moxley shows up and says that all he has ever asked of Eddie is his best, and says that Eddie has a lot of people who love him for a man who thinks the world is against him. He says that everyone loves Eddie and that they deserve his maximum effort, then says that he knows Eddie better than Eddie knows himself and knows that Eddie cannot beat him and has already lost. He says that in their last meeting, he let him go out on his shield so he could come back stronger, and says that he will have to earn every inch this time. Eddie tells Moxley not to treat him like "his young boy bitch" Wheeler Yuta and that he should be lucky he let him breathe.Eddie says he will show his fighting spirit and demands that Moxley show his when he busts him up and enjoys it.
Backstage, Lexy Nair hosts a sit-down meeting between Adam Copeland and Christian Cage. Copeland is nowhere to be seen at the beginning until the moment that the meeting is about to begin. After the commercial break, Adam Copeland shows up and attacks "The Prodigy" Nick Wayne before brawling with Christian Cage. Security quickly moves in only to get decked, and Copeland continues to throw Christian around. This time, the locker room has to get between Copeland and Christian.
Stokely Hathaway guests on commentary for the next match.
Skye Blue beats Kris Statlander with an avalanche Skye Blue after Julia Hart shows up and nails Kris Statlander at the top rope with the TBS Championship. After the match, Skye Blue and Julia Hart both attack Kris Statlander, then Willow Nightingale runs into the ring and makes the save. As Skye Blue and Julia Hart are on the ramp, however, Abadon suddenly shows up at the top of the ramp.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews The Outcasts (Saraya and Ruby Soho). Saraya brings out Harley Cameron, then Ruby Soho gets a call from "Cool Hand" Angelo Parker and takes it before Harley suddenly brandishes a knife.
Before the next match, Samoa Joe does not show up when his music plays, and it is revealed that Joe has been attacked backstage. MJF elects to wrestle the match as a two-on-one handicap match.
Two of The Devil's masked men beat MJF for the Ring of Honor World Tag Team Championships after a third masked man shows up from underneath and hits MJF with a pipe. After the match, two more masked men show up from underneath the ring and attack MJF, and Samoa Joe hobbles out to the ring with a chair. The masked men run away, then The Devil appears on the video screen and says "Pleasure doing business with you." Joe then takes the chair and smashes it into MJF. Joe then says "I did this to you!" before hitting MJF with the Muscle Buster.
OTM (Bronco Nima and Lucien Price) beat Chase University (Andre Chase and Duke Hudson). As per pre-match stipulation, OTM earns a shot at the NXT Tag Team Championships, while Chase University is back to square one on handling their debt.
The NXT Tag Team of the Year is The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed). The NXT Female Superstar of the Year is Tiffany Stratton. The NXT Male Superstar of the Year is Ilja Dragunov.
Backstage, Trick Williams meets with Carmelo Hayes. Carmelo says it is a shame what happened to Ilja Dragunov, but it will take a lot more to keep Dragunov down. He tells Trick to take his shot and that there is no better time to beat Dragunov than now.
Noam Dar retains the NXT Heritage Cup Championship against Josh Briggs by disqualification. Josh Briggs scores the first fall with 1:43 (one minute, forty-three seconds) left in Round 2 following a powerbomb out of a triangle hold followed by a clothesline. In Round 4, Lash Legend hits Briggs with a bucket, but Briggs kicks out. Jakara Jackson soon gets on the apron, allowing Lash to throw the bucket into the ring. Noam and Briggs fight over the bucket, and the referee turns around to see Briggs hits Noam Dar with the bucket, which ends the match with a disqualification win for Noam Dar.
Backstage, Axiom and Nathan Frazer talk about Bron Breakker not winning Male Superstar of the Year. Bron shows up and tells Frazer to slow down and think before he speaks, but Frazer says he will not slow down and says whatever he has to say about Bron to his face. Bron then takes this as a challenge, which Frazer accepts, and Bron tells Frazer to be careful what he wishes for.
Cora Jade beats Karmen Petrovic. After the match, Gigi Dolin shows up as Cora is about to attack Petrovic again, and Cora retreats.
Riley Osborne beats Lexis King to advance to the finals of the NXT Men's Breakout Tournament following the distraction by Trey Bearhill. After the match, Bearhill gives Lexis King a beating, and Lexis King is forced to retreat.
The NXT Match of the Year is Ilja Dragunov vs. Carmelo Hayes for the NXT Championship at No Mercy. The NXT Moment of the Year is The Undertaker arriving on the October 10th episode of NXT.
Backstage, Ava says that nobody has heard from Ilja Dragunov all week and that it will be up to him if he can defend the NXT Championship next week.
Bron Breakker beats Nathan Frazer.
Backstage, Drew Gulak says that Dragon Lee and The Latino World Order (Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro) will learn what he and the No Quarter Catch Crew (Gulak, Damon Kemp, Charlie Dempsey, Myles Borne) have learned. Damon Kemp says that heart means nothing and that one must be remorseless. Charlie Dempsey says that their flashy moves mean nothing when they grind their faces into the mat. Myles Borne says that they take no prisoners and show no mercy. Kemp says their breaking point is their starting line, then Drew Gulak challenges Lee and the lWo to a six-man tag match at New Year's Evil. Gulak says NXT is about to become "a no-fly zone" and that The No Quarter Catch Crew will show no quarter.
Backstage, Fallon Henley and Brooks Jensen says Josh Briggs nearly had the Heritage Cup, then Jensen says he knows Briggs wants to be a solo star and that Fallon should spread her wings against Tiffany Stratton as well. The three of them decide to go their seperate ways, but they still see themselves as family.
Backstage, Arianne Grace talks to Ava about getting slapped by Roxanne Perez last week and demands that Roxanne enlist in anger management classes. She then finds out that she is facing Roxanne at New Year's Evil.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Blair Davenport and Lyra Valkyria. Both Blair and Lyra accuses each other of ducking the other, and Blair says she got everyone's attention with the parking lot attacks, but Lyra says that backfired thanks to Nikkita Lyons' return. Blair says she became Iron Survivor, and Lyra says she welcomes competition. Lyra says she knows Blair will do whatever it takes to become champion, and Blair says she has seen Blair's rise and will be there to see her fall.
Oba Femi beats Tavion Heights to advance to the finals of the NXT Men's Breakout Tournament.
Backstage, Ilja Dragunov says he is looking out for Trick Williams when Kelly Kincaid tries to interview him in the parking lot.
It is announced that an exclusive interview with Ridge Holland will be shown next week.
Joe Gacy beats Joe Coffey after Hank Walker and Tank Ledger pull Mark Coffey and Wolfgang off the ring apron.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Dragon Lee, Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro, who accept the No Quarter Catch Crew's challenge, then Elektra Lopez and Lola Vice show up for a reunion. Joaquin and del Toro are proud of Elektra for making her own way, then Elektra introduces a disinterested Lola.
Eddy Thorpe beats Dijak by knockout in an NXT Underground Match following a Manifest Destiny through the announce table.
Ilja Dragunov meets with Trick Williams, who wants to know if Dragunov is willing to defend his title against him before saying he will not hold back and signing the contract for their championship match at New Year's Evil. He says that they can push the match back and that all Dragunov has to do is let him known, but Dragunov takes his neck brace off and says no one and nothing can stop him before signing the contract. Both men shake hands.
This week's episode is the very best of 2023. Matches and moments include:
The Miz shows up to introduce this year's "best of" episode.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles in the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament finals, Night of Champions 2023
Jackie Redmond and Peter Rosenberg interview Seth "Freakin'" Rollins.
Backstage, Alpha Academy (Chad Gable, Otis, Maxxine Dupri, Akira Tozawa) look back on 2023, and Maxxine Dupri plugs the current deals on WWEShop.com as she supplies some shirts while combating what she thinks is "holiday blues" from Chad Gable saying goodbye to the current year.
Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship, WrestleMania 39
We hear from Rhea Ripley, who says that the women's division was eradicated in 2023 and that Ivy Nile will find out that she does not belong in her world.
Logan Paul vs. Ricochet, SummerSlam 2023
Damian Priest vs. Bad Bunny, Backlash 2023
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) talk about big meaty men slapping meat, the current state of the Raw women's division, the three hardest kicks to the head in WWE, the current state of the tag team division, and Alpha Academy (Chad Gable, Otis, Maxxine Dupri, Akira Tozawa).
Chad Gable vs. Gunther for the WWE Intercontinental Championship; Raw, September 4, 2023
We hear from Paul Heyman, who calls 2023 "a three-peat" for Roman Reigns with 1,212 days as champion while listing a who's who of opponents that Roman Reigns has beaten throughout the year, then states that no one will unseat Roman in 2024. He also says that 2024 is a leap year and brings one extra day to acknowledge the Tribal Chief.
Jackie Redmond and Peter Rosenberg interview "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Brock Lesnar, SummerSlam 2023
Becky Lynch vs. Tiffany Stratton for the NXT Women's Championship, NXT, September 12, 2023
Jackie Redmond and Peter Rosenberg interview Becky Lynch.
Becky Lynch vs. Trish Stratus in a steel cage match, Payback 2023
Backstage, General Manager Adam Pearce is met by Chelsea Green, who is irritated from not being in a single highlight tonight. Pearce apologizes and says she has a present for her in the form of a video montage of her greatest moments which ends up making Chelsea look like a fool. Chelsea Green is outraged, and threatens to speak to management as she leaves. R-Truth shows up and says the whole ordeal was better than "It's a Wonderful Life."
Jackie Redmond and Peter Rosenberg interview "Main Event" Jey Uso.
The Judgment Day (Finn Balor, Damian Priest, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio, JD McDonagh) and Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton, Seth "Freakin" Rollins, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Sami Zayn and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes in WarGames, Survivor Series 2023
Note: This episode is a repeat of the August 13, 2023 episode.
Backstage, "King FatBoy" Papo Esco is looking for Slice Boogie. Jonny Loquasto tells Esco that Slice is here, as he left a trash can full of weapons for him. Danny Limelight shows up and says Slice Boogie may a wildcard, but he will show up.
Before the next match, Jonny Loquasto shows up and tells Kevin Martenson that Bateman did not show and that Bateman has sent a message saying he will face him on his own time and has sent a replacement - probably to soften Martenson up - if Martenson is up for it. Martenson is up for it, and Martenson's new opponent is "Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams.
Kevin Martenson retains the United Heritage Championship against "Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams.
Backstage, Jeremy McPete interviews Marti Belle, who was impressed with Savanna Stone and Zeda Zhang, stating both are the future of professional wrestling. She then says that she is not going anywhere because she is the present, and when she becomes United Women's Champion, nobody is getting in her way.
"Benevolent" Jack Banning retains the United Television Championship against "King FatBoy" Papo Esco in a Bodega Street Fight following interference from the rest of The Institution (Honest John, Brendan Divine, Savanna Stone) and despite assistance from Danny Limelight.
We hear from "Outlandish" Zicky Dice, "The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater and Slice Boogie before this week's main event.
Slice Boogie beats "Outlandish" Zicky Dice and "The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater in the finals of the Golden Opportunity Tournament to earn a guaranteed shot at the United World Championship after Invictus Khash shows up and hits Clearwater in the back with a chair and Slice Boogie hits the Statue of Misery on Zicky Dice.
"The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson vs. Claudio Castagnoli in the Blue League of the Continental Classic ends in a time-limit draw. Danielson and Claudio both earn one point. Danielson ends the tournament with ten points. Claudio ends the tournament with seven points. Danielson advances to the Blue League finals, while Claudio does not.
We see a recap of what has happened recently in the Gold League of the Continental Classic.
The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster, Anthony Bowens, "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn) retain the AEW World Trios Championships against Action Andretti and Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) after Max Caster pulls the tights when he pins Andretti.
We hear from Hook, who says that if Powerhouse Hobbs wants to fight him by his rules for his title, then they can do it on his turf in New York next week at Worlds End.
"Limitless" Keith Lee beats "The Machine" Brian Cage after Prince Nana produces a cinderblock from underneath the ring. After the match, Keith Lee says that almost a year ago, someone took him out for almost two months with a cinderblock, and it appears that someone seems to be listening. He says that he has a house to tear down, and it will be brick by brick.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Mariah May, Luther and "Timeless" Toni Storm. Mariah May says her American wrestling license has been approved and that she will debut soon, and asks Toni Storm for advice. Toni says winter is coming and she will be ready for Riho.
Christian Cage and "The Prodigy" Nick Wayne head to the ring. Christian addresses Shayna Wayne striking Adam Copeland with a chair, then says that while he could explain it, he will let Shayna explain it herself, and brings Shayna out. Shayna heads to the ring, then takes offense to being booed before stating that Nick Wayne is her son and that she watched Copeland smack a steel chair into his head, which she says led to the choice that she made to protect her son. She says that the one person who cares for her son as much as he does is Christian Cage. Christian says both Shayna and the world now knows that Adam Copeland is "a despicable human being" and "a piece of crap." Christian says Shayna worked low paying jobs for $40,000 a year to make Nick's dream come true and that Adam Copeland tried to take that dream away when his life was the same way, and he wishes Adam's mom was still alive to disown him. He says that Adam's anger issues made it so that their title match was a terrible night for Adam and a great night for him, and that he scored in another way with "Mother Wayne." He says that since his family is secure, he will accept Adam's invitaton to a fight, but he does not take Adam as a challenge for he has beaten him and is now on levels above everyone in the business. Christian Cage then says he will take Adam Copeland out back and deal with him one more time for all the single mothers.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews "Absolute" Ricky Starks and Big Bill. Big Bill says diverticulitis sounds "made up" and that Omega is afraid to face him, especially when his uncle Joe has gingivitis and is doing fine. As Starks says they are free to party in New York, Chris Jericho shows up and says he is not forfeiting anything. Chris Jericho says he still has a contract for a match and that he will find a tag team partner and take their titles, then tells Big Bill that his Uncle Joe sucks.
"Daddy Magic" Matt Menard guests on commentary for the next match.
Daniel Garcia beats Brody King with a jackknife pin in the Blue League of the Continental Classic and earns three points. Garcia ends the tournament with three points and is mathematically eliminated from winning. Brody King ends the tournament with six points. After the match, the lights go out, and when they come back on, Malakai Black and Buddy Matthews are holding Garcia down. Matt Menard gets in the ring only to get laid out by Matthews, and Malakai snaps Garcia's fingers. When Menard lays down on top of Garcia to protect him, FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) shows up, and The House of Black (Malakai, Brody, Matthews) retreat. Dax Harwood then tells The House of Black that FTR accepts their challenge.
Before the next match, Thunder Rosa arrives in a Chevrolet low rider.
Abadon and Thunder Rosa beat Julia Hart and Skye Blue.
Eddie Kingston beats Andrade el Idolo in the Blue League of the Continental Classic and earns three points. Kingston ends the tournament with nine points. Andrade ends the tournament with nine points. Due to a head-to-head victory against Andrade, Eddie Kingston goes on to face "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson - who shows up to stare down Eddie Kingston at the end of the show - in the Blue League finals.
Dustin Starr interviews Ellsworth Enterprises (Matt Williams, Storybook Prince Gaston, "The Goddess of the Night" Nyxx) at the announce desk. Nyxx says this is the holiday season and that she has a gift for the fans. She then takes a ceremonial sword and knights Matt Williams and Storybook Prince Gaston as "Sir Matthew" and "Lord Gaston" respectively, which makes her "Queen of Memphis Wrestling." As a bonus gift, she renames Ellsworth Enterprises "The Nyxx Network." Sir Matthew says that she has a wife and kids, but winning the tag team titles with Gaston was the greatest moment of his life.
Backstage, Mikey - now with a very clean look, a three-piece suit and calling himself "Michael" - shows up wanting to help King Cobra. King Cobra says he will think about it.
We see a strange vignette of Christmas imagery and static. Images of The Twins of Salem can also be seen as a voice states to guard against decay.
The Twins of Salem (Jacksyn Crowley and Abel Booker) beat The Top Guns (Brandon Barretta and Joe Vinetti).
Memphis Wrestling wishes everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year.
Backstage, Terrence Ward interviews Ray Ray Sanders, who admits that while he has been feeling down and has let everyone down, he is still willing to fight, and he will enter the Grind City Rumble.
Dustin Starr interviews Big John Dalton at the announce desk. Big John Dalton says he cannot imagine celebrating Christmas any other way than with the fans, then produces Reverend Ash Taylor's to produce some "gifts" for Reverend Ash Taylor.
"Main Event" Brad Skimahorn guests on commentary for the next match.
Big Nasty Phil beats Jay Smooth, Big John Dalton and "Righteous" Ryan Rembrandt in a Christmas Chaos Match following interference by "Main Event" Brad Skimahorn.
We see footage of U-Gene meeting "Handsome" Jimmy Valiant at the WrestleCenter.
Dustin Starr interviews "Handsome" Jimmy Valiant - dressed as "Boogie Claus" - at the announce desk after Boogie Claus gives out gifts to the fans. Jimmy Valiant says Memphis wrestling is in his heart and soul and will be in him forever, and thanks Dustin Starr for bringing it back. As he thanks the Memphis fans for being the best fans, Van Viciouss and "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock show up. Blaylock wants to know what Jimmy Valiant is here when he has "retired more times than Garth Brooks", then brings out "the real Santa Claus," who is really some guy dressed like Jimmy Valiant trying to make fun of Jimmy. Jimmy Valiant things brings out "All the Way" Ray Collins as back-up, and Ray Collins challenges Van Viciouss to a match.
"All The Way" Ray Collins beats Van Viciouss with a schoolkid pin after "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock gets on the apron and distracts Collins only for Jimmy Valiant to get him and put him to sleep while fending off the fake Jimmy Valiant. After the match, Blaylock - and the fake Jimmy Valiant - suffer the ignominy of having their pants fall down as they and Van Vicouss head to the back, with the fake Jimmy Valiant wearing an obvious diaper.
Dustin Starr interviews matchmaker King Cobra at the announce desk. King Cobra says that he has a Christmas present for everybody, and announces that the first match of 2024 will be a Triple Threat Match for the Memphis Heritage Championship. All of a sudden, The Posse (Simon and Mr. Chris) show up. Simon says "Merry Christmas" to King Cobra before he and Mr. Chris jump King Cobra. Security tries in vain to stop the attack, and Simon hits Kin Cobra with the eye with a spiked shoulder pad. The Posse then grabs a member of security by the hair so that Simon can powerbomb him. Dustin Starr leaves commentary and heads to the ring as The Posse are told to leave just after Simon chokes out a referee.
Orange Cassidy retains the AEW International Championship against Rocky "Azucar" Romero.
AEW and Jazares donate $1,000,000 in toys to Toys for Tots. Earlier this week, AEW donated toys to children in need in the Dallas metropolitan area.
Backstage, Tony Schiavone interviews Kris Statlander. She says that she and Willow Nightingale have been through a lot, but have gotten back on track and are stronger than ever. Stokely Hathaway shows up and says Willow has said that she carried Statlander, and that being in a group does not work long term. Stokely then tells Kris Statlander to look in the mirror and go back to being the former TBS Champion and stop hanging out with Willow, Orange Cassidy and Danhausen.
Backstage, "The Machine" Brian Cage says it is Christmas and that he is getting a giant-sized gift in the form of Keith Lee, and he plans to give him a giant-sized ass whipping on Collision.
Before the next match, Roderick Strong says that if Oklahoma City does not think MJF is The Devil, they are stupid. He then calls random fans stupid before siccing The Kingdom (Matt Taven and Mike Bennett) on The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy).
The Kingdom (Matt Taven and Mike Bennett) beat The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy) after Matt Taven pins Matt Taven with a schoolkid pin and a grab of the tights from out of nowhere.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Ruby Soho. Angelo Parker shows up and admits he has been trying to get some alone time with Ruby for some time, then Saraya shows up. Saraya shows up and apologizes to Ruby, then says she is okay with the relationship between Ruby and Angelo as she says that she has gifts for Ruby. When Ruby and Renee leave, Saraya does an about face on Angelo and says he cannot have Ruby.
Skye Blue beats Queen Aminata with a Dragon Sleeper.
El Hijo del Vikingo retains the AAA Mega Championship against Black Taurus.
Backstage, Javier Bernal says he is back to give his "Big Body Believers" a special Christmas surprise. He says he has a list and has checked it twice, and knows who is naughty and nice, and while he compliments Sarah Schriber and the camera crew, he gets the attention of Mr. Stone, whom he says is getting coal for the suit he is wearing. Mr. Stone tells Sarah Schreiber that Javier Bernal is not going to have a good Christmas after Bernal leaves.
Roxanne Perez beats Brinley Reece.
Javier Bernal enters the ring. Bernal says it is the season of giving and that he is as generous as he is good-looking, then says he will give the fans the greatest gift that they are about to receive: some quality time with "Big Body Javi." He then says that the fans did not come here just to see him and that every single man, woman and child wants to see him humble yet another NXT Superstar. He then says he will beat anyone in the locker room who is willing to step up, then Von Wagner shows up dressed like Santa Claus to answer the challenge.
Von Wagner beats Javier Bernal, then tosses candy to the people in the crowd.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles heads to the ring to start tonight's show. He says that Randy Orton wants Roman Reigns at Royal Rumble and LA Knight wants Roman any time, anywhere. He says he does not blame either of them, even though he does not care about either of them. He says that he is number one when it comes to getting his hands on Roman and wants him at Royal Rumble. Suddenly, LA Knight shows up. Knight says Styles can get Roman after he does, because he is getting Roman first when it could just as easily be Styles before Roman. Styles mentions Knight stepping over his dead body to get a match with John Cena, and says he will drop anyone who gets in his way. Orton shows up and says he can appreciate both of their issues with Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, but they put him on the shelf for eighteen months, but Knight says he has yet to be taken out and is bulletproof before calling dibs on Roman. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and says they all have good points, then announces that in two weeks at New Year's Revolution, Styles, Knight and Orton will compete in a Triple Threat Match to see who faces Roman at Royal Rumble. Styles agrees to this and leaves, but promises to take either of them out if they get close to the ring in his match with Solo Sikoa tonight.
Bianca Belair, Shotzi, Zelina Vega and "Michin" Mia Yim beat Damage CTRL (Bayley, Iyo Sky, Asuka, Kairi Sane) in a Holiday Havoc eight-woman tag match after Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre come out of boxes and attack Asuka and Kairi Sane.
Backstage, Jimmy Uso gets solo Sikoa fired up for his match with AJ Styles tonight, then Roman Reigns asks Paul Heyman to bring General Manager Nick Aldis to him.
Dragon Lee retains the NXT North American Championship against Butch.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with Roman Reigns in his dressing room. Roman asks Paul Heyman to leave them, then compliments Aldis on his booking ideas before telling him to run it all by him first. Roman says that as head of the table, everything goes through him, and he demands Aldis understand that. Aldis then says that he is an executive with no feelings while Ama Pearce is more of "a middle management type" while he is the sharp end of the stick. He also says Solo Sikoa took care of John Cena in a way that Roman never did and that he looks forward to Solo's match with AJ Styles and the Triple Threat Match to see who faces Roman before telling Roman he looks forward to "more productive dialogue" and getting to know each other better.
Kevin Owens beats Carmelo Hayes to advance to the finals of the United States Championship Tournament. Owens shakes Carmelo's hand after the match.
"Michin" Mia Yim, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson meet up with "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles backstage. Anderson wants to know if they are still good after Styles has failed to keep in touch with them the last few months, to which Styles says "I don't know. Are we?"
We hear from Karrion Kross and Scarlett again. Kross says he knows the power of words and how they lead to action, and how he warned of The Bloodline's implosion. He says that he took away Drew McIntyre's temperament and sent him spiraling out of control, Rey Mysterio's patience to such a degree that he smacked "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio in front of his own mother, and Shinsuke Nakamura's honor. He then says that even the greatest proclamation is soon to be forgotten without a scribe and without authors. After Scarlett says "Do you see the vision?", we see what looks like silhouettes of Paul Ellering and The Authors of Pain (Akam and Rezar).
Santos Escobar beats Bobby Lashley to advance to the finals of the United States Championship Tournament after two masked men show up out of the crowd and attack The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) at ringside, allowing Escobar to win with a schoolkid pin. After the match, the masked men are revealed to be Humberto Carrillo and Angel Garza.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Butch. Butch says he brought the fight, and as he congratulates Dragon Lee, he is met by Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince), who sing about Butch being lonely. This causes Butch to attack them. General Manager Nick Aldis gets involved when officials break up the brawl, and gives Butch a tag match against Pretty Deadly in two weeks.
We hear from Logan Paul, who says that he, but it is now between a man who cried for Rey Mysterio and a man who who will not take his shirt off at the pool. He says Santos Escobar is not on his level and calls Kevin Owens "Reddit as a person." He tells them both to enjoy the temporary clout, as it is all they will get from him.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles beats Solo Sikoa by disqualification after he is attacked by Roman Reigns. After the match, Roman lifts Styles up, but takes too long, and Styles fights back with an enzuigiri. Solo gets back in the ring and attacks Styles alongside Roman when Randy Orton runs to the ring and fends them both off before Jimmy Uso shows up to attack Orton from behind. LA Knight then runs to the ring to even the numbers game and clean house. Styles gets angry at bth Knight and Orton afterwards, then fights them both. This leads to all three men going at it in the ring to end the show.
At the beginning of the show, Athena questions why Lexy Nair was hesitant in bringing her the title during her match at Final Battle, then says that the family is back together before stating she will take out the frustrations Lexy caused on her on Maya World later tonight.
Before the next match, JD Drake says that the Dallas area is not just the armpit of Texas, but American in general, and that everyone has a than fidning decent wrestling to ever come out of this area. He says The Workhorsemen (JD Drake and Anthony Henry) will prove that "that other place that produced so many legends" is trash while they are for real.
The Von Erichs (Ross and Marshall Von Erich) beat The Workhorsemen (JD Drake and Anthony Henry). After the match, Kevin Von Erich puts the Iron Claw on Anthony Henry.
Athena beats Maya World, then helps her up only to punch her in the face after the match.
Tony Khan is on the stage. He announces that there has been so much great wrestling in Ring of Honor and that the women's division is getting better and growing, and that it is time to introduce something new: the Ring of Honor Women's World Television Championship.
Dante Martin beats "Big Shotty" Lee Johnson.
In backstage footage from Final Battle, we hear from Scorpio Sky and "All Ego" Ethan Page. Ethan says he has said that he was great, but he has not believed his own words until recently and that he has "faked it until he made it." He says that he means everything he says now and that he can smell the fear and insecurity in the locker room. He says that he is not alone anymore and that he can back his words up by having one of the best champions in his corner. Scorpio Sky remembers Ethan Page having his back when he was TNT Champion, then says he is here to back Ethan Page up until he can bring championship gold home.
Gates of Agony (Bishop Kaun and Toa Liona) beat "All Heart" Blake Christian and Willie Mack.
In backstage footage from Final Battle, "The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese says it took Mark Henry, Scorpio Sky, powder in the eye, crushing his fingers with a 45 pound plate, and smashing his head with a chair to make him quit. "Smart" Mark Sterling says it felt as if the deck was stacked against them before they entered the ring, and that it is time for them to stack the deck against Ring of Honor. Sterling says he has a plan.
Lance Archer and The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch) beat Iron Savages (Boulder, Bronson, Jacked Jameson) in a six-man tag match.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Maria Kanellis-Bennett, Griff Garrison and Cole Karter. Maria says her song brought them to victory last time, then says she has been in the studio all week to put thefinal touches on their new entrance music. She also tells Garrison and Karter that she has signed a conract for an eight-man tag match and that they need some tag team partner. When Karter says he is okay with whomever Maria has picked, Spanish Announce Project (Angelico and Serpentico) appear and high-five each other, then leave. Karter quickly changes his tune, but Maria says they are great.
Taya Valkyrie beats Vertvixen.
Backstage, we hear from Shane Taylor Promotions (Shane Taylor and "Taiga Style" Lee Moriarty). Shane Taylor says that Final Battle did not exactly go to plan for them, and Lee Moriarty says that while he has come up short and may have hit a plateau, he is not stopping here because he is motivated and he is not stopping until he reaches the top. Shane Taylor says that everyone is on notice and that one's hands cannot hit what one's eyes cannot se and that everyone is getting put down.
Rachael Ellering beats Charlette Renegade despite Maria Kanellis-Bennett grabbing at Rachael's foot as "Legit" Leyla Hirsch deals with Robyn Renegade on the outside. This time around, Leyla sees what Maria is up to, and catches Maria out.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie. Johnny TV says he and Taya are ratings king and queen while Dalton Castle is "a pigeon," and where they are from, pigeons are full of "you-know-what."
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Dalton Castle. Castle is winded, saying he has been lying awake, devastated for the ROH viewers. He says that the television title was his ticket onto every screen in the world and that he was going to buy the respect that he deserved. He says that his face was going to be on the truths and get a ton of action figures until Johnny TV ruined it for everyone, including his boys. He says that Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie will pay for ruining ROH and that he will ruin them.
The team of Action Andretti and Dante Martin beat The Outrunners (Truth Magnum and Turbo Floyd) and The Infantry ("The Captain" Shawn Dean and "Bad News and Tattoos" Carlie Bravo) in a three-way tag team match.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Maria Kanellis-Bennett. Maria says that the Women's Television Championship means more opportunities and that Tony Khan has been listening. Suddenly, "Legit" Leyla Hirsch and Rachael Ellering confront Maria for trying to stop Rachael from winning tonight, and Leyla is not buying Maria's explanation for what she was doing. Rachael says their dynamic is not going to get them any closer to the Women's Television title, and Leyla says that if this is Maria's way of helping them, then she does not want it. Maria tells them to see what they do without her help, for it will not be good and her spotlight will always outshine theirs everyday. With Maria out of the way, Rachael and Leyla pledge to do their best.
Gravity, Dalton Castle and The Boys (Brandon and Brent Tate) beat The Spanish Announce Project (Angelico and Serpentico), Griff Garrison and Cole Karter in an eight-man tag match. Before the match, Dalton Castle is lacking in energy as he shows up in his first-ever entrance robe in ROH history from his debut in 2015. When he wins, Dalton Castle is back to his usual self.
Komander and El Hijo del Vikingo beat Gringo Joe and Jack Cartwheel.
This week's episode is a "best of 2023" episode. Matches and memories include:
Bully Ray vs. "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander in a Full Metal Mayhem Match for the IMPACT World Championship, Hard To Kill 2023
Mickie James vs. Jordynne Grace for the IMPACT Knockouts World Championship, Hard To Kill 2023
MK Ultra (Masha Slamovich and Killer Kelly) are the Knockouts Tag Team of the Year.
Gail Kim, Jordynne Grace, Mickie James, Trinity and Awesome Kong vs. "The Quintessential Diva" Gisele Shaw, Angelina Love, "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo, Savannah Evans and Tasha Steelz, IMPACT 1000
The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) vs. ABC ("Inevitable" Ace Austin and Chris Bey) in an Ultimate X Match for the IMPACT World Tag Team Championships, Rebellion 2023
ABC ("Inevitable" Ace Austin and Chris Bey) are the Male Tag Team of the Year for 2023.
Steve Maclin vs. KUSHIDA for the vacant IMPACT World Championship, Rebellion 2023
It is announced that Eddie Edwards, KUSHIDA, Jade Chung, Brian Myers, Dani Luna and The Rascalz (Trey Miguel and Zachary Wentz) have all either signed or re-signed with TNA/IMPACT for 2024.
Jordynne Grace vs. "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo for the vacant IMPACT Knockouts World Championsip, Rebellion 2023
KiLynn King is The One To Watch In 2024.
Trinity's debut in IMPACT Wrestling; May 4, 2023
Trinity is Knockout of the Year for 2023.
Trinity vs. "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo for the IMPACT Knockouts World Championship, Slammiversary 2023
Swerve Strickland beats Rush in the Gold League of the Continental Championship and earns three points. Swerve Strickland completes the tournament with twelve points. Rush completes the tournament with six points.
Backstage, Chris Jericho says that last week, Kenny Omega ended up in the hospital after suffering the effects of diverticulitis and is now out indefinitely. He says that his and Omega's chances of becoming tag team champions are effective, but Omega's health is more important. He tells Omega that everyone is pulling for him and to take as long as he needs to get healthy, as everyone will be here when he gets back and he will be waiting for him. He then says that this is "good night, mwah, and good night, bang, for now."
Mark Briscoe beats Jay Lethal in the Gold League of the Continental Championship with a Burning Hammer followed by the Jay Driller and earns three points. Mark Briscoe completes the tournament with three points. Jay Lethal completes the tournament with zero points.
In footage from last Monday in Long Island, NY, MJF is inducted into the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.
We hear from Wardlow, who says that this has always been a battle between good and evil and that the clock is ticking for MJF. He says they are getting closer to MJF's world ending, for he has been running, crying and weak, and soon the world will see him broken. Wardlow says the payment for his sins cannot be delayed any longer, and he will be the one to bring the Devil to his knees.
Samoa Joe heads to the ring. He says that he is here to seek answers, and says that while he was asking the right questions, he may not have asked the right people. He says that The Devil has been attacking people week after week, and while his victims have been seen being attacked, MJF was just seen on the ground. Samoa Joe then demands that MJF head to the ring and answer some questions right now, and MJF arrives. MJF asks Joe if he is accusing him of being The Devil, and finds it interesting, as he remembers Samoa Joe having his back and declaring him his property, and says Joe only cares for his property as much as his diet. MJF then says he has some accusations of his own, saying that he does not remember The Devil's minions laying a finger on Samoa Joe, and says that he does not like or trust Joe to the point that they might as well not wait to fight until Worlds End. MJF shoves Joe, but when Joe is about to shove back, masked men all clad in black suddenly flood the ring. Joe and MJF fend them off, but more show up from over the barricade and surround the ring. The lights then go out, and when they come back on, The Devil appears on the video screen followed by a message of "Where can you go? Who can you trust? Next week, will you accept a challenge...for your ROH World Tag Team Championship? Are you a hero, Max?" MJF says he knows Joe will say no even though he made a promise to Adam Cole, then Joe takes the microphone and screams "We accept!" He then tells MJF that the best way to beat a devil is with one's bare hands, and next week, they will "beat his boys' asses."
Bckstage, Renee Paquettte interviews Kris Statlander, Orange Cassidy, Rocky Romero and Trent Beretta. Rocky says he spent almost a year as a champion in Mexico and is now looking for new international opportunities. Orange Cassidy takes this as a challenge and tells him he will see him next week. Rocky is aghast, as he was not asking for a title shot.
"Timeless" Toni Storm guests on commentary for the next match.
Riho beats Saraya to earn a shot at the AEW Women's World Championship at Worlds End. After the match, Luther carries "Timeless" Toni Storm to the ring, and as Toni looks at Riho with some opera glasses, Riho beats her up. When Riho turns around, she is attacked with the AEW Women's World Championship by Mariah May.
Tony Schiavone presents a prepared statement from Christian Cage, who admits that his absence has left a hole in everyone's lives and that he has taken Nick Wayne on a well-deserved vacation. He then addresses Adam Copeland's challenge, saying he will make his return at Collision and addresses Copeland and any questions people may have regarding his previous AEW appearance. He also says he expects nothing more than a hero's welcome upon his return.
Backstage, MJF tells Samoa Joe that he does not want him involved. As Samoa Joe walks away, MJF finds a facemask near a door with "Mogul Embassy." MJF knocks on the door and demands an explanation from Prince Nana, then Swerve Strickland walks out of the room and confronts MJF. MJF mentions their history together after Swerve says MJF has been ducking him, then says Swerve is not on his level. Swerve mentions MJF's interactions with William Regal and says MJF became "a little bitch." Swerve then says MJF does try-outs while he signs contracts. MJF compliments Swerve on his promo skills, then tells him that he is his champion before questioning whether or not he and The Mogul Embassy are The Devil and his minions so he can break his arms so he always swerves while he drives. Swerve threatens to drop MJF if he keeps waving his championship in his face. Joe finally shows up and says he and MJF has business elsewhere, then he and MJF leave.
Roderick Strong beats Komander. After the match, The Kingdom place "MJF is the Devil" flyers on the barricade as Renee Paquette interviews Roderick Strong. He tells Samoa Joe to listen to him and that it is obvious that MJF is The Devil, and that it is time to wake up. When Renee Paquette asks Roderick Strong if he thinks that Samoa Joe would heed his advice if that were true, Roderick says that Samoa Joe is his friend by proxy.
"Switchblade" Jay White beats Jon Moxley in the Gold League of the Continental Classic after reversing Death Rider with Blade Runner and earns three points. Jon Moxley completes the tournament with twelve points. "Switchblade" Jay White completes the tournament with twelve points. As a result, the Gold League finals is a triple threat match between Moxley, Jay White and Swerve Strickland to decide a winner. After the match, Swerve Strickland shows up on the ramp. When Jon Moxley tries to get up, Jay White clips him in the knee before egging Swerve on.
Fallon Henley beats Tiffany Stratton with a Sunset Flip. After the match, Tiffany snaps and attacks Fallon from behind, dragging her by her hair, rubbing her with a wet mop and dumping trash out of a trash can on her.
Backstage, Carmelo Hayes apologizes to Trick Williams for last week. Trick says they are good and that accidents happen, then asks Carmelo if he knows who attacked him. Carmelo says he only has Ilja Dragunov's strength to go by, then proposes that they make the NXT Championship a triple threat match. Trick is reluctant, and says that he won the Iron Survivor Challenge to earn his own title shot. Carmelo says they will not have to fight each other and that it will not matter who wins the NXT Championship, but Trick says it will. Carmelo says he wants Dragunov to pay, and Trick says they have to do it the right way. Trick then asks Carmelo to be by his side on the road to his title match with Dragunov. Carmelo accepts.
Ilja Dragunov heads to the ring. Dragunov says he feels like the third wheel in a weird romance story with Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams. As he keeps talking, Ridge Holland suddenly shows up. He says he is not here to cause problems, and that he has been struggling mentally and needs to know who he is. Dragunov welcomes him back, then asks Ridge what he wants. Ridge says he knows where Dragunov is coming from, and says that he is here to redeem himself. He says that Dragunov can not only help him redeem himself, but also earn redemption. Ridge says that he feels like that he can be in the main event. When Dragunov asks Ridge if he wants a title shot, Ridge says he has too much respect to ask for anything, and that he will run through the locker room to earn that shot. He says their title match will happen, and when it does, it will be his honor, then calls this the first chapter in his own redemption story. Dragunov says that he wrestles with unbridled passion, and if Ridge wants to know where he stands, he will find out tonight. Ridge and Dragunov then have a staredown in the middle of the ring.
Backstage, we hear from Lexis King, saying he is already a breakout star and that when he wins the Men's Breakout Tournament, he will have the contract to prove it.
Backstage, Trick Williams confronts Ilja Dragunov for having a match with Ridge Holland, but Dragunov reminds him that he is the champion and that he calls the shots. Trick says he is champion, but only until New Year's Evil.
Lexis King beats Dion Lennox to advance in the NXT Men's Breakout Tournament. After the match, Trey Bearhill shows up with a chair, and Lexis gets out of the ring, saying Bearhill has not earned another shot at him. Bearhill then helps Lennox up.
We hear from Eddy Thorpe, who says that this year has been "trial by fire" for him and that his feud with Dijak has been heartbreaking for his family. He says that he fights through the pain for his family. He says that Dijak took him out, and in return, he took the Iron Survivor Challenge from him. He then wants a match with no ropes and no excuses and challenges Dijak to an NXT Underground match.
Kiana James and Izzi Dame beat Thea Hail and Jacy Jayne after Izzi gets the hot tag, making it so Thea cannot get the submission win on Kiana.
Backstage, the female locker room talk about Kiana James and Izzi Dame, and Roxanne Perez says that she is not done with them. Arianna Grace says it's only about how you play the game and not wins and losses, but Roxanne says she feels otherwise before she slaps Arianna.
Andre Chase and Duke Hudson are seen gambling with OTM (Bronco Nima, Lucien Price, Scrypts). Duke Hudson tells Andre Chase to stop while he is ahead, but OTM tells him to keep going. Andre Chase proposes a match, where if he and Hudson win, they double their money, and if he and Hudson lose, they walk out with what they came in with. Scrypts also wants a tag team title match. A member of The D'Angelo Family shows up and calls Tony D'Angelo, then says they have a deal.
Before the next match, Dragon Lee picks Charlie Dempsey as his opponent. Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, Wolfgang) shows up, and Joe Coffey tells Dragon Lee to pick him or Dempsey. Dragon Lee picks both, making it a Triple Threat Match.
Dragon Lee retains the NXT North American Championship against Charlie Dempsey and Joe Coffey in a Triple THreat Match. During the match, Joe Gacy is seen underneath the ring, and he drags Joe Coffey underneath the ring. After the match, Joe Gacy flees, then Dempsey, Drew Gulak, Myles Borne and Damon Kemp attack Dragon Lee until Joaquin Wilde and Cruz del Toro show up and make the save.
Backstage, Trick Williams says he should be getting the first shot at the NXT Championship, not Ridge Holland. He says that he should be the one to take the title off Ilja Dragunov.
Cora Jade returns to the women's locker room and reclaims her locker from Karmen Petrovic before throwing her jacket to the ground. When Karmen shows up and see what happened, Gigi Dolin says there's only way to deal with Cora.
Tavion Heights beats Luca Crusifino to advance in the NXT Men's Breakout Tournament.
We see a video package for Blair Davenport vs. Lyra Valkyria for the NXT Women's Championship.
Backstage, Lyra Valkyria is met by Nikkita Lyons. She says she will take care of Tatum Paxley tonight, but tells Lyra she is back for Blair Davenport and for the NXT Women's Championship.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Meta-Four (Noam Dar, Oro Mensah, Lash Legend, Jakara Jackson), who are celebrating the holidays. Noam Dar says Josh Briggs has a Christmas miracle coming his way, as he will defend the Heritage Cup against him.
Nikkita Lyons beats Tatum Paxley.
Backstage, Hank Walker and Tank Ledger say they are about to flip the script on Gallus (Mark Coffey and Wolfgang) tonight.
Backstage, Fallon Henley says she is humiliated, embarrassed and pissed off, and that Tiffany Stratton has had everything handed to her and that she is not done with her. Fallon leaves, then Josh Briggs feels that he will win the Heritage Cup. Brooks Jensen says he and Fallon will have Briggs' back, but Briggs says he has to do this one solo.
Gallus (Mark Coffey and Wolfgang) Hank Walker and Tank Ledger. After the match, Joe Gacy is seen in the Chase U student section of the crowd.
We hear from Dijak, who talks about how he put Eddy Thorpe in the hospital in their strap match before attack him with the turnbuckle last week before telling Thorpe he will see him in the underground.
We hear from Tiffany Stratton, who says that it feels good to put Fallon Henley in her place as "a servant in society," and that the two of them do not belong in the same world. She says that Fallon will always be trash and challenges her to a match at New Year's Evil, and when she wins, Fallon will become her servant.
Ridge Holland vs. Ilja Dragunov ends with Ridge Holland accidentally dropping Dragunov as Dragunov elbows him. Referees and medical check on Dragunov, who has to be placed on a stretcher, while Ridge Holland is disappointed with himself. Dragonuv is helped to the back to end the show.
