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.
We hear from Jordan Castle and "One in a Million" Maximilien. Jordan Castle says that a ten-month prophecy will come to pass when Maximilien becomes the Heritage Champion and proves that he is the best thing Championship Wrestling has going. He then tells "Poppin'" EJ Sparks that the only head that he should be worried about is his own when it gets ripped off.
Che Cabrera beats Luster the Legend.
Backstage, Jonny Loquasto is on the phone when he is interrupted by The Evantourage ("Main Evant" Evan Daniels, Bryce Saturn, Damian Desire). Bryce Saturn says that they are on a roll, and Evan Daniels says that they have more in store for 2026 in the form of championship gold. Loquasto proposes putting Bryce Saturn and Damian Desire in a match against each other to see who should be #1 contender for a singles title, and while The Evantourage are irritated at first, they go with it, and even have Loquasto leave this time.
We see Marti Belle vs. Big Mama for the UWN Women's Championship from Gotham Wrestling.
Backstage, Alex Gracia makes fun of Jonny Loquasto before demanding her Women's Championship match against Big Mama, saying that Big Mama is scared of her and that it is her time. She says that she has beaten the locker room and that she wants her title match.
"One in a Million" Maximilien beats "Poppin'" EJ Sparks by submission with the Max Factor to become the UWN Heritage Champion!
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Chelsea Green. Chelsea shares advice from John Cena: There is no substitute for hard work.
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Shawn Michaels. Shawn says that John Cena has always been wonderful with NXT and praises his work ethic, saying he is the hardest-working man anyone will ever meet. He calls Cena "one of the rare good dudes in this line of work."
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Oba Femi. Oba says that he was a big fish in a small pond for a very long time, but tonight is a much bigger stage due to John Cena's very last match. He hopes that Cena's end is his beginning, and that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes views him as a distant future when he has already arrived. He says that Cody's time is up and his time is now.
Sam Roberts and Megan Morant interview Je'Von Evans and Leon Slater. Slater admits he is nervous, but he and Je'Von will make history and show who they are tonight. Je'Von feels the same way, and hopes that tonight proves that they can hang with the big dogs.
We see WWE Superstars at The Children's Inn at NIH Bethesda in Bethesda, Maryland as part of WWE's community outreach.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Trish Stratus. She says that Cena is a once-in-a-generation Superstar and that we will never see another like him again, and that Cena has mastered "the art of the comeback" and has made decisions that have ensured his legacy.
Sam Roberts and Megan Morant interview Sol Ruca. Sol Ruca mentions John Cena picking her for the women's Iron Survivor Challenge, then says that it is time to show that she belongs here with her match against Bayley tonight. She is focused on one day at a time, one night at a time, and tonight, she is focused on Bayley.
Jackie Redmond interviews Stew, the WWE cameraman that John Cena has mentioned for many years. Stew says John Cena is a good man all the way through, which he considers a rarity. He says that John Cena did something great in WWE and that he will continue to do something great. Jackie Redmond then interviews Stephanie McMahon, who says that John Cena is something special and has given his all throughout his career, and that as much of a hero Cena has been in the ring, he has been one outside of the ring through the Make-A-Wish program.
Sam Roberts and Megan Morant interview The Miz. The Miz says that he never got his final match with John Cena despite being an important part of Cena's career, then mentions that only the people who have matches tonight get cappucinos in catering.
Byron Saxton interviews CM Punk. Punk says that John Cena's retirement gave everyone a chance to say goodbye, and tonight is it. He says he would not have missed tonight for the world, and says that legends are always taken overnight. He is proud to have been a small part of Cena's story and career.
Lilian Garcia sings The Star Spangled Banner.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Oba Femi by disqualification after he is suddenly attacked by Drew McIntyre. Oba Femi confronts McIntyre and shoves him to the mat, and Cody hits the Cody Cutter on McIntyre before Oba hits McIntyre with a choke slam. Cody then takes the NXT and WWE Championships and hands the NXT title to Oba before raising his hand. Oba returns the favor and raises Cody's hand.
Indiana Pacers player Tyrese Halliburton, actor Jon Bernthal, and actor and stuntman Chuck Zito are all seen in the crowd.
Sol Ruca beats Bayley after hitting the Sol Snatcher, getting Bayley back into the ring, and reversing a roll-up by Bayley with one of her own.
Michelle McCool, Mark Henry, Kurt Angle, Eve Torres, Trish Stratus, Rob Van Dam, and Sami Zayn are seen in the front row.
Michael Cole thanks Taz, JBL, Corey Graves, Jerry "The King" Lawler and Jim Ross for being among the commentators who called John Cena's matches throughout Cena's career.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Dragon Lee retain the World Tag Team Championships against Je'Von Evans and Leon Slater after Styles catches Slater out of the air for the Styles Clash.
Rapper Metro Boomin and retired Navy SEAL Master Chief and Medal of Honor Recipient Edward Byers are seen in the crowd.
The Miz is suddenly in the ring. He says that John Cena's retirement tour pretends that he does not exist when he was the one to beat John Cena in the same gear he is currently wearing in the main event of WrestleMania 27. R-Truth shows up dressed like John Cena and confronts The Miz for switching around the balls in Smackdown General Manager Nick Aldis' tumblr and costing someone an opportunity. The Miz reads out loud the name in the ball in R-Truth's hand: Joe Hendry. Joe Hendry shows up out of nowhere, and The Miz becomes absolutely furious. The Miz swings at Joe Hendry, but Joe Hendry fights back, and after he and R-Truth hit a double Five Knuckle Shuffle, Joe Hendry hits the Standing Ovation on The Miz.
Gunther beats John Cena in Cena's final match by submission following six consecutive sleeper attempts. On the sixth attempt, John Cena faintly smiles, then softly taps out. After the match, the fans chant "Bullshit!" before giving Cena a standing ovation. Cena kisses the ring before the fans chant "Thank you, Cena." John Cena takes a bow before a locker room full of wrestlers, legends, Hall of Famers, producers and officials empties and heads to the ring. CM Punk and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes pay it forward, placing the WWE and World Heavyweight titles on Cena's shoulders. The crowd chants "You fucked up" at first before chanting "Thank you, Cena" again. Cena raises both of the titles up multiple times before handing them back to Cody and Punk. Triple H is booed as he congratulates Cena, and we see a video package chronicling Cena's career. After the video package, Cena takes a bow before leaving his sneakers, his armband and his wristbands in the center of the ring. He high-fives the fans on the way out, then takes one last look around and winks at the camera before taking one final bow and one final salute. John Cena then looks at the camera and says "It's been a pleasure serving you all these years. Thank you." He then heads to the back, and the show fades to black.
Don Callis guests on commentary for the next match.
Swerve Strickland beats "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander. After the match, Swerve says that the last time he was in Wales, he was AEW World Champion. He says it is time he gets back to being World Champion, as he did not come back to face off against The Don Callis Family or The Opps (Samoa Joe, Hook, Powerhouse Hobbs, Katsuyori Shibata). He says that he is back for the AEW World Championship, then tells Samoa Joe that his days are numbered and that he is the most dangerous man in AEW, and that he is declaring for top contendership for the title.
Backstage, we hear from Timeless Love Bombs ("Timeless" Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa), who say that that you cannot have a tag team toast without them and that there are here to wet your whistle.
Kris Statlander and Jamie Hayter beat Sisters of Sin (Julia Hart and Skye Blue).
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Kris Statlander and Jamie Hayter, who both immediately agree on a Women's World Championship match at Worlds End. Hayter says the woman that Statlander teamed with tonight will not be her opponent.
Don Callis guests on commentary for the next match.
Claudio Castagnoli vs. "The Alpha" Konosuke Takeshita in the Blue League of the Continental Classic ends in a draw. Both men earn one point, and both men are still tied in first place with seven points apiece. After the match, both men continue to slug it out, and more referees show up to restore order. Members of The Death Riders and The Don Callis Family also show up.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews JetSpeed ("The Jet" Kevin Knight and "Speedball" Mike Bailey). Kevin Knight knew they would face each other, but he has respect for Speedball and that tonight will be special. Speedball says he needs six points to get to the finals - as does Kevin Knight - and expects Knight not to hold back.
Backstage, we hear from Ricochet, who says that 2025 has been good to him and that 2026 will be even better when he enters the Dynamite Diamond Ring battle royal, wins the diamond ring and wins the AEW World Championship.
We see a video package for the 2026 Dynamite Diamond Ring Battle Royale.
"Speedball" Mike Bailey beats "The Jet" Kevin Knight via pinfall in the Gold League of the Continental Classic. "Speedball" Mike Bailey earns three points and has six points in total, while "The Jet" Kevin Knight still has three points in total.
Backstage, "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher says he had all the momentum in the Gold League, but it is now ruined. He says that if he has to bring it to a member of his own family, he will do it, and he will get his momentum back. We hear from PAC, who says that while he is in awe at what Fletcher wants to be, he does not care how brilliant his matches are, as he is about to dip his toe in a very difficult pool and nothing brilliant is going to happen, as he is on another level.
Mark Briscoe retains the TNT Championship against Daniel Garcia. Mark Briscoe celebrates with The Conglomeration after the match.
Dustin Starr interviews Diana Taylor at the announce desk to start today's show. Diana is glad to have the women's championship back where it belongs, and says that Nyxx lost it so easily that she did not deserve it. As Diana states that there is nobody in the back who can touch her for the belt, Main Event Money (Main Event Bradley, CJ Money, Mama Money) shows up, and Main Event Bradley states that the only reason Diana is a three-peat champion is because Mama Money was not involved. He calls Mama Money the best women's wrestler in Memphis Wrestling and declares that Mama Money will win the women's title and bring more money to Main Event Money. Diana says that she knows how Main Event Money works and that she has her own friends: Xya Wolfe and Raven Black. Bradley says he feels like beating up women today, and challenges them to a six-person tag match.
Diana Taylor, Xya Wolfe and Raven Black beat Main Event Money (Main Event Bradley, CJ Money, Mama Money) in a six-person tag match.
Dustin Starr interviews "The Gift" Ray Sanders at the announce desk. Sanders says that the last time he and Simon were in the ring, he piledrived him into chairs in front of friends and family. He says that Simon has been suspended, then rips his neck brace off and says he is looking for a fight. He says he has faced lions, tigers and bears his whole life and has been in all kinds of matches, and he has even beaten Aaron Roberts, and he is not scared of Simon. Simon may have put him down, but he will get back up and face him again. He announces that Matchmaker King Cobra has made it official, and next week, it is him and Simon in a no-disqualification match for the Heritage Championship.
We see a vignette for Major Curtis, who is looking for new soldiers for his platoon in the WrestleCenter. He has somebody do 25 push-ups, then says he will return next week. Meanwhile, someone is watching as they mop the floor.
"The Gold Standard" Eli Knox guests on commentary for the next match.
"Cold Hearted" Colton Cage retains the Memphis Wrestling Junior Heritage Championship against "The Ember" Shawn Aries. After the match, "The Gold Standard" Eli Knox tells Colton Cage that he has only survived him before demanding another title shot. Colton Cage says Eli Knox had his respect, but he threw it all away, then wants to know what Eli Knox has and demands he put something on the line. Eli Knox is left speechless.
The L.A. Hustlers (Notorious Bradley and Ruffshot Lamonte) vs. Muddy Waters (Gio Savage and RJW) ends with The Slaughterhouse (Reverend Ash Taylor, Jagged James, Nasty Nick) beating up both teams. Reverend Ash Taylor demands that they either get The Modern Day Monsters, or else this keeps happening.
"The Problem" Aaron Roberts beats "The Chosen One" Zay Washington by disqualification after Washington hits Roberts with a low blow in full view of the ref after Roberts catches Justin Case's chain. Washington then wraps the chair around Roberts' head and runs him into the ring post before Justin Case handcuffs Roberts to the ring. Washington gives Roberts more of a beating, and Justin Case slaps Roberts in the face. Senior referee David Knight has to call for help and check on Roberts. Justin Case and Zay Washington leave, but Washington returns for one more cheap shot on Roberts.
We hear from General Manager Nick Aldis, who says that bringing Drew McIntyre back has become difficult, as McInytre has returned none of his calls. He gives Drew McIntyre an invitation to come to SmackDown so they can come to a resolution to bring him back. Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes is met by Aldis, who tells him that he has a document where McIntyre has declared SmackDown an unsafe working environment. Aldis also states that he is heading straight to McIntyre's home in order to come to a resolution. Cody wads it up and throws it to the floor on the way to the ring to start tonight's show. In the ring, Cody brings up McIntyre's claims of SmackDown being an unsafe working environment, and says that McIntyre is in the position he is in because he is "half in," and if he were McIntyre's boss, he would fire him. Since he cannot fire McIntyre, however, he can whip his ass. All of a sudden, Oba Femi shows up and heads to the ring. Oba notes that Cody is all fired up, but tells Cody that he should be worried about him instead of McIntyre before introducing himself. He notes that their match at Saturday Night's Main Event is being viewed as "present vs. future," then says that the future is now and here and it is him. He says that Cody's time is up, and his time is now. Cody notes their mutual respect for John Cena before telling Oba that he beat Cena for the WWE Championship. Oba stops Cody on his way out, and both men raise their respective titles in a brief staredown.
Backstage, Fraxiom meet up with Ilja Dragunov, telling him that they will have his back in case #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae) gets involved. Dragunov appreciates but rejects the assistance, saying he must do in the painful but honest way. He says he will put Ciampa in his place, and he must do it alone. Dragunov states that John Cena never gave up and never backed down, and that Ciampa will learn that pain will entertain him if he messes with him.
Ilja Dragunov retains the WWE United States Championship against Tommaso Ciampa despite the interference of Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae. After the match, Gargano and Ciamapa gang up on Dragunov, then Carmelo Hayes runs into the ring and fights off both of them, sending them into a retreat. He then helps Dragunov up.
We see an John Cena interview snippet about what is next. Cena says he will be an ambassador for WWE for the next five years.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Je'Von Evans. Je'Von says that he is on the biggest stage of his career, but he will not be there alone. All of a sudden, The Miz shows up, saying he should be the one being interviewed. Je'Von not only reminds Miz that he blew his chances to face Cena, then challenges to a match. Miz tells him that if he injures him, he will not make it to Saturday. We then see a message from Uncle Howdy saying "We're here."
The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross) head to the ring. Uncle Howdy addresses Solo Sikoa and his claims from last week, saying he has discredited him and his family before asking who Solo is to pass judgment. He says Solo does not have the power to look within himself, but The Wyatt Sicks do. He says that Solo's real family has all turned their backs on him, as he used and abused those who claimed to love him. He says that Solo is disillusioned and out of his mind, saying that The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) run SmackDown. Howdy tells Solo to rip the scales from his eyes, as The MFT's run nothing while The Wyatt Sicks hold the WWE Tag Team Championships. He states that if The MFT's want the titles, then they can come and get them. The MFT's show up on the TitanTron, with Solo stating that he, not Uncle Howdy, calls the shots, and this time, they will do things his way. Next week, they will come to take the titles, and tells The Wyatt Sicks to be ready for war. He says that if Uncle Howdy wants to keep his family safe, then he should give The MFT's the tag team titles, or else all he can do is run.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair warns Alexa Bliss to be careful against Lash Legend on their road back to the women's tag titles. Rhea Ripley shows up and makes it known that she and Iyo want the women's tag titles, but Alexa says that she and Charlotte do not step aside for anyone.
Tom Brady, Snoop Dogg, Peyton Manning, Jelly Roll and Jimmy Fallon, all congratulate John Cena for his retirement and incredible career.
Sol Ruca and Bayley are seen in the crowd.
Lash Legend beats Alexa Bliss after hitting Charlotte Flair on the outside with a pump kick for taking out Nia Jax.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Aleister Black and Zelian Vega. Zelina says it did not have to come to this, but Damian Priest does not like the man that he is and that Rhea Ripley will not make him whole. Aleister says that if Priest is so keen to drag his friends to Hell with him, then so be it.
It is announced that SmackDown goes back to three hours on January 2nd.
Je'Von Evans beats The Miz.
Backstage, Rhea Ripley is met by Nia Jax and Lash Legend. They put Rhea on notice, but Rhea is not threatened and says Nia has been brave since she got backup. She warns Nia that she is a problem that she will not solve. Nia and Lash leave. Damian Priest shows up, saying he needs this energy in the ring. He leaves, then Jade Cargill shows up and looks at Rhea briefly before heading to the ring.
We hear from "Michin" Mia Yim, who says that Jade Cargill has been picking on the women's division and that it pisses her off, and says that while Jade will give her all that she has got, she will do the same to Jade. Suddenly, Jade Cargill attacks Michin before heading to the ring. Jade Cargill says that this is what happens women do not know their place in the back, then says that anyone can step up and get stepped on. Michin shows up with a shinai in her hand and officials behind her, and Michin smacks Cargill with the shinai. Cargill hits Michin with a pump kick, then hits her with a choke slam back in the ring.
We see a video package for Oba Femi.
Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley beat Aleister Black and Zelina Vega.
It's time for The King's Speech. Frankie Kazarian heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Kazarian brags about retiring JDC and sending him packing while retaining the TNA World Championship, and stating that he is where he belongs. He says that he is the new face of AMC going into 2026, then calls the fans' collective anger his happiness and states that nothing makes him happier than a room full of angry marks. He says that at the end of the day, the fans would backstage even their own mother to be in his possession, then proclaims that he will be World Champion for a long time and demands that the fans get used to it. Suddenly, Mike Santana shows up in the crowd and gives credit to Kazarian for seizing the opportunity and doing what he said he would do, and as much as he wants to stomp Kazarian's head in, he must channel his anger more strategically. He wants Kazarian to be on high alert, as the target is on his head and not his back, and in next week's steel cage match, he will take out the invaders from NXT before pulling the trigger on the target at Genesis. Santana makes it known above Kazarian's protestations that the TNA World Championship is coming back home to him.
We hear from Lexis King, Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo, Brooks Jensen, Tyson Dupont and Tryiek Igwe. Lexis says that TNA refuses to die and calls Matt Cardona nothing more than a glorified backyard wrestler. Tyson and Tyriek state that they will defeat their opponents in next week's steel cage match. Jensen says they have nothing left to lose and everything to gain. Stacks says he warned Director of Authority Santino Marella, but Santino got in his business, and admits that while Santino is a good Director of Authority, he is "a horrible father" who didn't want him in TNA or his life, or around his daughter. Stacks says he gets what he wants, and next week, they all get what they want, and they will continue their takeover of TNA.
Lexis King beats Matt Cardona in an advantage match for next week's steel cage match following the distraction from Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo. After the match, Stacks attacks Cardona from behind, then Lexis strikes Cardona in the arm with his cane. Steve Maclin runs into the ring, and Stacks and Lexis retreat.
We hear from The Angel Warriors (Lei Ying Lee and Xia Brookside). Xia Brookside says that their match at Final Resolution was intense. Lei Ying Lee says they respect each other and fight for honor, then they are met by Robert Stone, Mila Moore, Tessa Blanchard and Victoria Crawford, who mock The Angel Warriors. Xia reminds Tessa that she and Victoria lost to The IInspiration (Cassie Lee and Jessie McKay) at Final Resolution. Tessa says she not yet decided to go after the TNA Knockouts World Championship, but if she has to, she will beat The Angel Warriors.
Before the next match, The Personal Concierge George Iceman calls the fans of El Paso, Texas "no money losers" who cannot afford to give Christmas gifts before stating that he has a gift of his own in The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance).
The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance) beat Myla Grace and Harley Hudson with a roll-up from Heather to Hudson after M rolls Myla and Heather back during a roll up by Myla following Hudson putting a gift box through The Personal Concierge George Iceman's head.
As per the Bioflex Injury Report: Matt Cardona is now out with a severe shoulder injury and cannot compete in next week's steel cage match. Mustafa Ali is day-to-day suffering abrasions following being dragged around by Elijah at Final Resolution. JDC is dealing with hip inflammation and joint manipulation following Final Resolution, and is questionable for in-ring action. Santino Marella is cleared followed being punched in the jaw by Stacks at Final Resolution, and that Santino is also dealing with mobility issues.
Backstage, Gia Miller interviews Rich Swann. Rich Swann the only thing first about Fir$t Cla$$ (AJ Francis and Rich Swann) was AJ Francis putting himself first. He says that he and AJ Francis first met in the back of a plane, and Swann knew his potential. He then talks about how he linked up in the hopes of being tag team champions, but he found out for himself that Francis was a snake. He says that he is tired of the disrespect, and that Fir$t Cla$$ is over and that he will be damned if Francis holds him down. Swann is suddenly attacked from out of nowhere by AJ Francis, who says that he was always Fir$t Cla$$.
Musatafa Ali guests on commentary for the next match.
Cedric Alexander beats BDE, Jake Something, "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth, Dezmond Xavier and Jason Hotch in a six-way scramble to earn a future shot at the TNA X Division Championship after hitting BDE with a Lumbar Check following BDE hitting Jake Something with a top rope splash.
Backstage, we hear from The System (Eddie Edwards, Alisha Edwads, Brian Myers, Moose, JDC) who look forward to seeing if Sinner and Saint (Judas Icarus and Travis Williams) trust The System. Afterwards, JDC tells Eddie Edwards that he will bring it at Genesis, and Eddie says he would not have it any other way.
Backstage, Frankie Kazarian confronts Director of Authority Santino Marella regarding Mike Santana's rematch clause. Santino says that Kazarian should have other challengers, and states that he will defend the TNA World Championship against the winner of an upcoming battle royal featuring much of the TNA roster. He also mentions that Matt Cardona must be replaced in next week's steel cage match. The invaders from NXT (Lexis King, Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo, Brooks Jensen, Tyson Dupont, Tryiek Igwe) show up, and when Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo demands that the steel cage match next week be 5-on-4 and calls Santino "a horrible father," Arianna Grace slaps Stacks in the face.
The System (Eddie Edwards and Brian Myers) beat Sinner and Saint (Judas Icarus and Travis Williams).
The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy) head to the ring. Matt Hardy says it is great to be back in El Paso, Texas and that Eddie Guerrero will always be a member of Team Extreme, then mentions retaining the TNA World Tag Team Championship at Final Resolution as well as next week's steel cage match between TNA and NXT. Jeff Hardy is also happy to be back, then mentions that Matt Cardona is injured and that whoever replaces him must love TNA as much as they do. Matt says they must protect TNA, as 2026 will be TNA's biggest year ever. Jeff then says that they will shut NXT's team up in the steel cage match. All of a sudden, The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch) show up. Vincent introduces The Righteous, then Matt wants to know why The Righteous is here. Vincent says that they admire The Hardys, and state that The Hardys are "eternally loved" by everybody. After Vincent considers the Hardys gods, Dutch admits that The Hardys' fans are nothing like they have ever seen, then says The Righteous stand here because of The Hardys, not to replace them. Vincent says they do not see The Hardys as opponents and that they are grateful, as The Hardys have changed tag team forever. He wishes them luck in next week's steel cage match, with Dutch saying that they will be watching, as they want to bear witness to the ascension into the immortals that The Hardys will become.
Director of Authority Santino Marella and NXT-TNA Liaison Arianna Grace show up. Santino announces that he has analyzed the locker room and that Matt Cardona's replacement in next week's steel cage match is none other than himself.
Dani Luna beats Indi Hartwell in a Dog Collar Match.
Here are the must-see moments from tonight's show!
Spanish Announce Table (Angelico and Serpentico) beat LSG and Josh Crane by double submission.
The Dark Order (Evil Uno, Alex Reynolds, John Silver) beat The Frat House (Griff Garrison, Cole Karter, Preston Vance) in a six-man tag match.
We see backstage footage from Final Battle where "The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo has been her home for the last ten years with the women's division that she is a foundation. She hopes to defend the ROH Women's Pure Championship against Queen Aminata in the future.
Zayda Steel beats Racheal Ellering.
Backstage, we hear from The Swirl ("Vanilla Baby" Blake Christian and "Big Shotty" Lee Johnson). Lee Johnson says they both lost at Final Battle in fluke fashion, and Blake Christian says this was his year all year and that it should never have been Bandido or Rush, and says that the next time he and Bandido are in the ring, he will take his other arm and the ROH World Championship.
Jay Lethal beats Nathan Cruz.
"The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo's mystery partner is revealed to be Madison Rayne.
Hechicero beats Josh "The Goods" Woods by submission.
Dalton Castle, The Outrunners (Truth Magnum and Turbo Floyd), Adam Priest and "The Dynamite Kid" Tommy Billington beat The Premier Athletes (Tony Nese and Ariya Daivari) and MxM TV (Mansoor, Mason Madden, Johnny TV) in a ten-man tag match.
In backstage footage from Final Battle, we hear from Shane Taylor Promotions (Shane Taylor, "Taiga Style" Lee Moriarty, "The Captain" Shawn Dean, "Bad News and Tattoos" Carlie Bravo, Trish Adora, Anthony Ogogo). Dean says they only care about "championships, checks and cheeks," while Shane Taylor says he is more interested in making history, and says that they cared about each other before anyone else did and that they also made Skyflight (Scorpio Sky, Darius Martin, Dante Martin) interesting. Dean then says that everyone has two options: run or hide.
Red Velvet beats Lacey Lane in an ROH Women's World Television Championship Proving Ground.
The Death Riders (Daniel Garcia and Wheeler Yuta) beat Willie Mack and Aaron Solo by submission with a Dragontamer from Garcia to Solo.
Skyflight (Scorpio Sky, Darius Martin, Dante Martin) and Komander beat Shane Taylor Promotions (Shane Taylor, "Taiga Style" Lee Moriarty, "The Captain" Shawn Dean, "Bad News and Tattoos" Carlie Bravo) in an eight-man tag match.
The Babes of Wrath (Harley Cameron and Willow Nightingale) beat Timeless Love Bombs ("Timeless" Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa) to win the AEW World Women's Tag Team Championship and become the inaugural AEW Women's World Tag Team Champions! After the match, Renee Paquette interviews The Babes of Wrath in the ring. Willow says that she is proud of herself and also Harley, who has been there in a year where she had no idea who was there for her. Harley mentions Willow being her second-ever match and is proud to stand beside her as the first-ever AEW Women's World Tag Team Champions. Afterwards, The Timeless Love Bombs get back in the ring and shake hands with the new champions.
Backstage, we hear from The Opps (Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs, Hook, Katsuyori Shibata). Samoa Joe congratulates Eddie Kingston, saying that after weeks of asking, he receives. He says that Eddie wanted the real him, but Eddie does not realize that this is the real him and that he is ruthless by design and does not care about men like Eddie, for he wants something he has, and he is about to show him the reality of what this industry is.
Backstage, we hear from The Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta, Daniel Garcia, Marina Shafir). Jon Moxley says that despite his position in the Continental Classic, he can still score and score big. He says that The Death Riders are the hungriest and hardest-working. Daniel Garcia says that when they wake up, they choose to win.
Don Callis guests on commentary for the next match.
"The Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada beats "Jungle" Jack Perry by pinfall in the Gold League of the Continental Classic. "The Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada earns three points for a total of six points while "Jungle" Jack Perry has yet to get on the board. After the match, The Don Callis Family gets in the ring, and Don Callis has his family help "Jungle" Jack Perry up. Callis congratulates Jack Perry on his toughness, then says Perry has talent but lacks focus and direction. Don Callis offers "Jungle" Jack Perry a spot in his family with a one-time bonus of the one million dollars that The Young Bucks won for him, then demands and answer before he ties him to a chair. Jack Perry says that for the second time tonight, he might bite off more than he can chew. He fights The Don Callis Family only to get outnumbered, and Luchasaurus shows up. Luchasaurus proves to be a diversion, as The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) show up from behind with metal folding chairs and lay waste to everyone before hitting Okada with a BTE-Trigger. Don Callis finds himself surrounded, and Konosuke Takeshita takes a superkick for Don Callis to help Callis get away. Rocky "Azucar" Romero gets back in the ring only to eat a Luchasaurus choke slam.
Backstage, The Conglomeration (Mark Briscoe, Orange Cassidy, Roderick Strong), Mascara Dorada and The Timeless Love Bombs ("Timeless" Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa) celebrate The Babes of Wrath's (Harley Cameron and Willow Nightingale) championship win.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Eddie Kingston. Eddie notes that tonight is the 50th anniversary of Terry Funk becoming a world champion and hopes that he can do Terry Funk proud, then tells Samoa Joe that he will have the fight of his life and that he will not go down easily.
Tony Schiavone interviews Mark Briscoe in the ring. Briscoe says that after years of being told that he cannot get the job done, win the big one or become a champion, he has finally done just that. He knows that the doubters are still out there, and tells them that they can kiss his big white ass (which starts a chant), then says that it is one thing to become champion and another thing to stay a champion. As he mentions his title match against Daniel Garcia on Saturday, The Death Riders (Wheeler Yuta, Daniel Garcia, Marina Shafir) interrupt him, with Wheeler Yuta making fun of Mark Briscoe for being a redneck. Daniel Garcia says that everything about Mark Briscoe is "kinda sad," then says it will be even more sad when he beats Briscoe to become a two-time TNT Champion while Briscoe figures out how to provide for his family with a broken leg. Briscoe tells Garcia that he has an ass-whupping coming his way Saturday, then dares Garcia to make his move as he does not want to deprive the fans tonight of a fight. Daniel strikes first, and Briscoe punches him back. Shafir and Yuta have to hold Garcia back.
Backstage, Triangle of Madness (Julia Hart, Skye Blue, "The Toxic Spider" Thekla) is seen attacking other wrestlers when Kris Statlander shows up. She fends them off with a metal folding chair and sends them running.
"Hangman" Adam Page and Swerve Strickland beat The Opps (Powerhouse Hobbs and Katsuyori Shibata) in a tornado tag match.
Backstage, we hear from Don Callis, who says that The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson) have stolen his million dollars and that while he is prepared to drag them through court and send them to the courthouse, he would rather sic his family on them. Callis then challenges The Young Bucks and a partner of their choice to a trios match against his family for the million dollars.
Backstage, we hear from Stokely Hathaway. Stokely says that he and FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) have had an epiphany that being in front of the camera makes everybody think they are great and worthy of winning a championship, and next week, The Bang Bang Gang (Juice Robinson and Austin Gunn) will get that opportunity. He then says that FTR will cure them of their addiction and send them to the back of the line where they belong.
"Speedball" Mike Bailey gets an upset win on "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher by pinfall with a modified roll-up in the Gold League of the Continental Classic. "Speedball" Mike Bailey earns his first three points, while "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher still has six points.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews "Hangman" Adam Page. Hangman is focused on winning back the AEW World Championship and that he will be watching tonight, and that he is coming for the champion and the title at Worlds End.
Backstage, we hear from The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson). They pick Luchasaurus at first, but Luchasaurus recommends Kenny Omega. Omega says he does not want money, but if it is about The Don Callis Family, he will do it for free.
Samoa Joe retains the AEW World Championship by submission after ducking the spinning back fist and locking in the Coaquina Clutch.
Oba Femi heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Oba says that true power does not bend or break, but watches the world revolve around it and says that he is true power. He says that the starts aligned for Ricky Saints at No Mercy and knocked him off his throne temporarily, but NXT was not the same without him on top. He says that the universe did what it does best and found a way to correct itself, and the NXT Championship came back to him. He says that this is the way it is supposed to be and that he is now done with Saints and focused on "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Oba says that Cody will see not the future or potential, but the now and the inevitable, then Ricky Saints shows up and congratulates Oba on doing what he said he would do, then says he is man enough to admit that Oba was the better man at Deadline. As for what is next for him, Saints felt at first that he would never be NXT Champion again, but he is coming back for the title and he is steering the universe back on track. As Saints demands a championship rematch, Je'Von Evans shows up and says that he is #1 contender after becoming men's Iron Survivor, and that he is now wondering why he should wait until January to have his title match. Je'Von proclaims that he is locked right now and that he wants his title match right now, but Saints wants to know what the rush is and says that Je'Von versus him is "the better play." Je'Von says that he is the now, not the future, and that nobody is touching him at 21 years of age. He says that Oba is the man to beat for the NXT Championship and that he is putting money on himself right now. Saints agrees with Je'Von, and Oba Femi gets angry over the two of them telling him how to run the show. Saints and Je'Von talk this up to cowardice, but Oba Femi says that he has always beaten Je'Von and that tonight is no different.
Backstage, we hear from Tatum Paxley, who says that Izzi Dame has destroyed the old her and that while she has nothing left to lose, Izzi does. Tatum produces dolls of Shawn Spears and Niko Vance and says that since she did not want to play Izzi's way, Izzi will now be playing her way, and after she gets rid of Spears and Vance, it will just be the two of them together.
Kelani Jordan beats Jordynne Grace after kicking Jordynne off the ring steps and into the barricade as the referee takes the chair out of Jordynne's hands. This causes the barricade to break before Kelani hits Jordynne with a top rope 450 splash for the pin and the win.
Backstage in the women's locker room, Jordynne Grace is disappointed with herself not being able to beat Kelani Jordan. Thea Hail says this is a time to believe in herself, not doubt herself, but Jordynne is puzzled that she is taking advice from someone much younger than her.
Blake Monroe heads to the ring. She says that the rest of the women's locker room looks up and idolizes her as Women's North American Champion, and says that she is in a giving mood for the holidays before hosting an open challenge for her title. The open challenge is answered by numerous opponents, and Blake is suddenly attacked from behind by Thea Hail , who puts her in a Kimura Lock and forces her to flee. Blake is soon surrounded by the women's locker room.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Shiloh Hill, who gives a very scientific explanation of nervousness in the body before heading out to the ring for his NXT debut against Lexis King. He also reveals that he has pop-on veneers for his front teeth.
Shiloh Hill beats Lexis King in his NXT debut.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Oba Femi. Oba says he has learned to expect the unexpected as champion, then says the end result is always predictable. He hopes "The American Nighmare" Cody Rhodes is watching, as while he knows what Je'Von Evans is all about, he does not know what Oba Femi is capable of. He asks Cody who will carry him when he puts him in the ground when he breaks him just like he will Je'Von Evans.
"All Ego" Ethan Page heads to the ring. Ethan Page says he came to NXT to drink from the fountain of youth and learn as much as possible, but all the people he asked questions to are all preoccupied with social media. He talks about how John Cena will soon become a distant memory and leave a hole that will be filled with a man with a giant ego: himself. He also talks about how he won the North American Championship and made it prestigious after he could not win his way back to the NXT title. Ethan says the best had tried to take his title and could not do it, and he decided to keep on conquering and became AAA Mixed Tag Champion. He then says that one's birthday, one's death day and the day one realizes he is the biggest Superstar WWE has to offer as the three most important days, and going forward under his supervision, NXT will be perfectly fine. All of a sudden, the lights go out, and Tony D'Angelo appears behind Ethan. When Ethan turns around, D'Angelo hits him with a spinebuster and leaves a black piece of fabric similar to what was in the box handed to General Manager Ava a few weeks ago.
Backstage, Dion Lennox runs into General Manager Ava, Myles Borne, Leon Slater and Joe Hendry. Ava puts all four men in a four-way match where the winner will face whoever is NXT Champion after New Year's Evil. "All Ego" Ethan Page shows up angry from being attacked by Tony D'Angelo, and flinches when Myles Borne says that someone is behind him.
Sol Ruca beats Wren Sinclair. Zaria is seen watching from the crowd during the match. After the match, Zaria leaves through the crowd, and Sol Ruca chases her down. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) then heads to the ring.
Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) are in the ring after the commercial break along with Kendal Grey and Wren Sinclair. Jacy tells Kendal Grey that she should be proud of her NXT accomplishments so far, then says this is as good as it will get for her as she has the fans supporting her and she is the present. She then tells Kendal that her reality will smack her in the face at New Year's Evil when her fifteen minutes of fame end the moment she loses, and that she will send her into a catastrophic death spiral as the fans move on to the next new thing. Jacy says that potential does not win championships, and while Kendal is Evolve Women's Champion, the NXT Women's Championship is a whole different level, and while Kendal tried to make a name for herself all year, she dominated this year. Jacy lists off her accomplishments from this year and states that she is a rock star in the ring as well as the foundation that holds NXT together, and that she will not let "a flash in the pan bootleg Kurt Angle" ruin her spotlight. Jacy says that Kendal stands no chance, but Kendal says that she is the one with the momentum now despite having so much to learn. She says she shocked even herself becoming women's Iron Survivor, and reminds Jacy that she was also an unexpected champion when she beat Stephanie Vaquer. Kendal dares Jacy to treat their match at New Year's Evil as a joke, and mentions the face that Jacy will make when the underdog bites back. Jacy laughs Kendal off, but Wren Sinclair sees this as the beginning of "WrenCC" taking all of Fatal Influence's gold. This soon leads to a cheap shot from Fatal Influence on Kendal Grey. Wren Sinclair makes the save, but the numbers game catches up.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Hank Walker and Tank Ledger, who are wearing kimonos. They talk about their time in Japan, then they are met by OTM (Bronco Nima and Lucien Price). This leads to a match between the two teams.
Backstage, Blake Monroe meets with General Manager Ava and blames her for the throng of challengers answering her open challenge, including that "blonde little bitch" Thea Hail, then says she will not hold another. Ava puts Blake Monroe in a match with Thea Hail next week.
Sol Ruca catches up with Zaria, who says that she just wanted to support her tonight. Zaria wishes Sol Ruca luck against Bayley, and Sol Ruca asks Zaria to be there at Saturday Night's Main Event. They both apologize to each other and hug it out, saying they have never had a friend like the other before heading out.
Oba Femi retains the NXT Championship against Je'Von Evans after Ricky Saints pulls the referee out of the ring following Je'Von's counter of Fall from Grace into the signature two cutters. Je'Von takes out Saints, but Oba Femi gets the better of Je'Von and hits the Fall from Grace to win and retain.
Gunther heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Gunther talks about how he beat LA Knight to earn the right to be John Cena's final opponent, and states that Cena will face the best professional wrestler of all time. He then reveals a countdown clock until John Cena's final match at Saturday Night's Main Event, then says that beating Cena is not enough for him; he will break his spirit, push him around, bully him, drop him on his head and put him in a sleeper until he forces him to give up.
Oba Femi is seen in the front row.
Iyo Sky beats Kairi Sane after Rhea Ripley fights off Asuka on the outside.
Backstage, Logan Paul meets up with the rest of The Vision ("The Oracle" Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, "Big" Bronson Reed) and mentions Rey Mysterio smacking him in the face, saying something has to be done about it. He, Bronson and Breakker agree that this will be handled tonight, then Logan talks with Heyman, who reminds him he has back-up. Logan tells Heyman that in case Bronson and Breakket get in trouble, he is their backup. Heyman's respect for Logan goes up after hearing that, then provides the brass knuckles for just in case.
We see a video package for The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik), who state that they are stronger than ever and have shed their armor into a future without fear. They state that the time to run and hide has ended.
Rey Mysterio gets attacked from behind by Logan Paul before the next match, then produces the brass knuckles. Rey counters the knockout punch with a kick off the ropes, but Logan soon drops Rey again. Logan goes for the knockout punch again, but Rey trips him into the ropes for the 619. All of a sudden, the man in the black hoodie returns, superkicking Rey before hitting The Stomp and running through the crowd when security arrives. Logan then hits Rey with the knockout punch, then LA Knight runs to the ring. Logan slides out of the ring, then Knight says he will stomp the hooded man's head in before saying that he will make Logan pay tonight.
Je'Von Evans is seen in the crowd before the next match.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Dragon Lee retain the World Tag Team Championships against The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik). The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) and Grayson Waller watch the match from ringside. After the match, The New Day and Grayson Waller confront Styles and Dragon Lee before The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) show up from out of the crowd. Jimmy announces that The Usos are now back in the tag team division as they have been hit hard and taking loss after loss in the last few months, and after seeing him crash out, he called Jey. Jey they are going "back to us," and Jimmy says that while Styles and Dragon Lee do not know about The Usos yet, Jey says The New Day do and that they will go through them. He then tells Styles and Dragon Lee that they are going to take it all when The New Day grabs them, which leads to The Usos knocking The New Day out of the ring and Grayson Waller retreating before The Usos have a staredown with the World Tag champs.
Kansas City Royals catcher Carter Jensen is seen in the crowd.
Jackie Redmond interviews Stephanie Vaquer in the ring. When asked who her next opponent is, Vaquer says she wants to face everyone. She says she is not one who talks too much and that she speaks more through action, and that while Nikki Bella is a legend, the women's division has changed since fifteen years ago. As she says that the women's division is loaded with talent and that she is at the top, Nikki Bella shows up and says that they are not done, and demands a rematch. All of a sudden, Raquel Rodriguez shows up from out of the crowd and lawndarts Nikki Bella into the ring post before getting into the ring with Vaquer, telling her to name the time and place so she can kick her ass and take her title.
Backstage, Finn Balor brags about not having to face Rey Mysterio thanks to Logan Paul, and "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio mentions that he does not know who the man in the black hoodie was, but he like shim. Raquel Rodriguez shows up to tell Liv Morgan she wanted to make sure that Nikki Bella did not ruin another chance at the World Women's Championship, then Liv Morgan tells Roxanne Perez she will be in her corner tonight.
Sol Ruca is seen in the crowd before the next match.
Roxanne Perez beats Lyra Vakyria after Roxanne sends Lyra into Liv Morgan after kicking out of a roll-up before hitting the Pop Rox for the pin and the win.
We see Maxxine Dupri training again, and this time, Maxxine is far more confident and far more aggressive. She and Natalya then go at it again, and Maxxine is victorious before Maxxine says "Again."
We see a John Cena interview snippet about audience criticism.
Logan Paul beats LA Knight. During the match, Bron Breakker and "Big" Bronson Reed show up, but both of them get ejected after Bronson headbutts Knight. "The Oracle" Paul Heyman then distracts the ref as Knight fights back against Logan on the outside, and the man in the black hoodie shows up again and curb stomps Knight on the announce table. Logan Paul then hits LA Knight with a splash from the top rope for the win. After the match, Logan Paul, Bronson Reed and Bron Breakker gang up on Knight for a Spear from Breakker followed by two Tsunamis from Bronson. Medical staff have to help Knight out of the ring. After the commercial break, Paul Heyman says he cannot tell the difference between Kansas City, Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri before announcing that Bron Breakker will be the new World Heavyweight Champion on January 5th. Breakker wants to know where CM Punk, and says that if he was here, there would be two losses in back-to-back days in Kansas City, Missouri. He says that he does not buy "the nice guy CM Punk" and says Punk is a fraud. Breakker mocks CM Punk's straight edge lifestyle and says he looks like "the biggest crackhead anyone's ever seen," and says that if he gets that CM Punk, he might as well stay at home, as he can beat that CM Punk easily. He wants to face the CM Punk that existed in the 2010s before he left WWE, saying he was the greatest to ever lace a pair of boots, and that if he does not get that, he will send Punk to the hospital and take his wife along with his title. All of a sudden, LA Knight is seen heading to the ring despite medical staff telling him not to, and as Bronson Reed and Logan Paul head to the back, Breakker says he will Spear and pin Punk. Bronson and Logan find Knight backstage and attack him, and security jumps in only to get attacked as well. The two of them then powerbomb Knight through a table, but Knight still gets up. Bronson and Logan go back on the attack and take out more security guards before Bronson hits another Tsunami on Knight on top of a car to end the show.
We hear from Jordan Cruz and The Epic. Cruz says that if he wants to start an episode, then that is what is going to happen. He says this week's episode is all about his World title defense with Scorpio Sky, and while he knows all of Scorpio's accomplishments, Scorpio has yet to face him and that opportunities seperate him from the Hall of Fame. Cruz says he will retain his title in his main event.
"Poppin'" EJ Sparks heads to the ring to start tonight's show. He has been UWN Heritage Champion for 266 days and has a lot of big challengers, yet no challenger has been able to beat him. He then addresses "One in a Million" Maximilien. He says that Maximilien has been a pain for the last two months and that he and Jordan Castle have sneak attacked him from behind at every chance, and that Maximilien is a coward who does not have what it takes to beat him one-on-one like a man. Sparks then says they can stop waiting and do this right, then Jordan Castle and Maximilien show up. Castle demands respect for the soon-to-be Heritage Champion and states that Sparks was not a fighting champion when Maximilien was in Montenegro. He also mentions that Sparks has a busted neck and that he cannot beat Maximilien at 100%, much less with a neck held together with Scotch tape, and states that he and Maximilien will do whatever it takes to win the Heritage title. He also states that while Sparks is back in the hospital with a broken neck, Maximilien will "take care of grandma." This starts a brawl between Sparks and Maximilien, and when Maximilien flinches at the attempt at a Roundhouse Rhythm, Sparks stops and slams Maximilien in the face.
CJ Dirt beats Michael Sean with the Rollin' Rocker.
We hear from Delirium (Slade and McCallion), who says that all the other tag teams are ready until the bell rings, then nothing matters. They then state that all they need is for the bell to ring.
The Pump Line (Boa "the Constrictor" Silva and "The Solution" Antonio Rivers) vs. Delirium (Slade and McCallion) from the October 5, 2025 episode of Championship Wrestling is replayed.
Damian Desire beats Jake Redondo.
Backstage, David Marquez interviews Luster the Legend, who says that regardless of who his opponent is, he will shoot them all down. He then says that his partner Adam Thornstowe is retired and that Che Cabrera's tag team partner is injured, and now he has nobody has to hold him back.
Jordan Cruz retains the UWN World Championship against Scorpio Sky. During the match, Jordan Cruz introduces the World Championship into the match as a weapon, but the referee takes it away. Cruz shoves the referee into the corner, and Scorpio scores a near-fall on a schoolkid pin. Scorpio hits the TKO on Cruz only for the referee is pulled out of the ring by The Epic during the pinfall attempt. Scorpio Sky takes out The Epic on the outside and gets the referee back into the ring, and when Cruz hits Scorpio with the World title, Scorpio kicks out. Near the end of the match, Scorpio rolls Cruz up for a pinfall attempt only to be sent right into a right hand from the outside by The Epic on the kick-out, allowing Cruz to hit No More Sorrow to win and retain.
We see Kelly Kincaid's interview with Kendal Grey and Wren Sinclair from earlier this week.
We see Blake Howard's interview with Dion Lennox from earlier this week.
Oba Femi beats Ricky Saints to become NXT Champion for the second time! After the match, Ricky Saints offers his hand to Oba Femi, and Oba Femi shakes it.
New Year's Evil is Tuesday, January 6th!
Sol Ruca and Zaria apologize to each other over the phone, then Zaria says that they need to talk thing through next time they meet.
We hear from Tank Ledger regarding his and Hank Walker's time in Japan for Pro Wrestling Noah, where they have won the GHC Heavyweight Tag Team Championships. Hank and Tank return next week.
Kendal Grey (3 points) beats Kelani Jordan (2 points), Sol Ruca (2 points), Jordynne Grace (2 points) and Lola Vice (2 points) in the Women's Iron Survivor Challenge to become the #1 contender for the NXT Women's Championship with a last-minute top rope cutter to Lola Vice.
Backstage, Blake Monroe is meeting with General Manager Ava. Blake Monroe wants to make an open challenge for the Women's North American Championship next week. Ava reminds her of what is at stake and that she is only champion because Zaria threw in the towel, but wants to see if Blake Monroe can defend the title on her own and approves of the open challenge.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Myles Borne. Myles says that while he wanted to face Ricky Saints, he has no problem getting another shot at Oba Femi. He then says he has taken entrance order seriously and that he will enter third. All of a sudden, Jordynne Grace and Kelani Jordan are brawling backstage, and referees have to step in.
"All Ego" Ethan Page retains the NXT North American Championship against Mr. Iguana.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Kendal Grey and Wren Sinclair. Kendal is euphoric and feels she was not supposed to win that match. Sol Ruca shows up and says Kendal Grey was the better woman, but says she would have won if she was in the ring for her whole and if her knee was 100%, she would have won. Wren thinks this is an excuse, since Zaria hit a Spear on Kendal and Kendal still won. Sol Ruca says Zaria may not be here to defend her behavior, but they are still best friends and that she will fight for Zaria just like Zaria fought for her.
Backstage, Oba Femi meets up with DarkState (Dion Lennox, Cutler James, Saquon Shugars, Osiris Griffin). Dion Lennox says his Iron Survivor opponents will not be safe, and soon, neither will Oba Femi.
Izzi Dame beats Tatum Paxley after Shawn Spears uses two dolls - one of Izzi, one of Tatum - to use Tatum's emotions against her before ripping the head off the Tatum doll. Shawn Spears gets slapped, but Izzi hits Tatum with a big boot and a sit-out powerbomb as soon as Tatum gets back in the ring for the pin and the win.
Backstage, Ricky Saints is angry with himself for not being able to beat Oba Femi again. Meanwhile, Je'Von Evans hopes to win the men's Iron Survivor Challenge and become NXT Champion. Saints also hopes Je'Von wins the match and the title.
We hear from Shiloh Hill. Shiloh talks about how he got into football by chasing squirrels as well as how he has a tooth in his head from a fight he got into at age nine when an older kid talked crap about his sister and he headbutted him. He then uploads what is a video talking about everything he just mentioned to what looks like an AI program, which says that it is time for everyone to wake up and to not sleep on Shiloh Hill. It also announces that Shiloh Hill's NXT debut match will be next Tuesday.
Je'Von Evans (2 points) beats Leon Slater (1 points), Joe Hendry (1 points), Dion Lennox (1 points) and Myles Borne (1 points) in the men's Iron Survivor Challenge to face Oba Femi for the NXT Championship with a last-second inside cradle on Myles Borne. After the match, Oba Femi shows up and stares down Je'Von Evans from the ramp. All of a sudden, the lights go out, and we see a blurred image on a bridge. All of a sudden, Tony D'Angelo shows up in the ring for the first time in months and attacks Je'Von.
Orange Cassidy beats Roderick Strong by pinfall with the Mouse Trap in Blue League of the Continental Classic. Orange Cassidy earns three points and is finally on the board. Roderick Strong still has zero points, and after the match, he walks on by without even acknowledging Orange.
It is announced that Darby Allin is out of the Continental Classic and that he will be replaced by "Jungle" Jack Perry in the Gold League due to being injured in his Continental Classic match with "The Jet" Kevin Knight. We then hear from Darby, who says that he felt his legs give out in his match with Knight and that he was rushed to the hospital where the powers that be in AEW saved him from himself, and tells "Jungle" Jack Perry that if he is taking his spot, he must win the whole thing. As for what is next for him, Darby admits he does not know.
FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) and Stokely Hathaway head to the ring. Stokely says that tonight is the greatest night of his life because FTR are the AEW World Tag Team Champions. He addresses what happened on Dynamite, stating that FTR are men of their words and dared The Bang Bang Gang (Juice Robinson and Austin Gunn) to put their hands on the tag team titles. He says there will be no more fun and games for The Bang Bang Gang, and calls them out to the ring, right here, right now. The Bang Bang Gang shows up and heads to the ring, and Cash Wheeler says that while The Bang Bang Gang were the last team to beat them, that time will be the last time. He says they are living legends while Austin is the son of a legend and that his and Juice's greatest accomplishments will be who they are associated with. Dax says that The Bang Bang Gang are excited to be in the ring with "the absolute best tag team on the planet" before calling Austin "a nepo baby" and Juice "a bag carrier" and stating that they were only relevant when they stood across from FTR. He then says that FTR are peerless and have no rival, and last week, he was embarassed when he let Juice touch his belt, and that the only reason they have not fought The Bang Bang Gang is because they will never beat FTR. He dares Juice to touch his tag team title again, then Austin says that while he is the son of a hall of famer and Juice is the son of a carpenter, Cash is the son of his first cousin and Dax is a son of a bitch. Austin then says that FTR has been ducking them when it comes to putting the AEW World Tag Team Championships on the line, and while they have done this song and dance before, the fans are getting behind The Bang Bang Gang. Austin then demands that they make a tag team title match official before Juice mentions their $200,000 win and says they would rather buy hundred of belts from AEW Shop and touch belts all night long. He then says he has a belt holding his pants up and does not any more, and what they really need is a title - the tag team titles - and they came here not to touch them, but to make it known that they will take them when they beat FTR's asses in the United Kingdom.
Backstage, we hear from Marina Shafir, Wheeler Yuta and Daniel Garcia. Shafir says that greatness is not a moment, but a habit executed every single day. She asks who is pushing Mark Briscoe to greatness, and Wheeler Yuta calls Briscoe "a toothless, hillbilly idiot" who cannot match them in greatness. Daniel Garcia calls Briscoe one of the stupidest idiots he has ever seen in his life and is stupid enough to put the TNT Championship on the line against him. He then says he will bring the TNT Championship back home in Wales.
Mascara Dorada beats Claudio Castagnoli by pinfall in the Blue League of the Continental Classic. During the match, it is announced that next week's show will air at 4:30 PM Eastern/1:30 PM Pacific. Mascara Dorado has earned three points and is finally on the board, while Claudio Castagnoli still has six points.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Tony Schiavone has a sit-down interview with The Babes of Wrath (Willow Nightingale and Harley Cameron) and Timeless Love Bombs ("Timeless" Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa). Toni proposes a champagne toast to "four bitches with itches to fight for all the riches," then says there is a difference between being a tag team and living a tag team, and that she and Mina were not just thrown together to fill a spot and have both been through war together after having met through "a tragedy of bloody circumstance." Willow says she supports what goes on in their personal life, then says that she and Harley have known each other for the last three years and that they have both been grinding. Toni says she has beaten both Harley and Willow and that neither can say the same about her, but Harley says that "these babes have wrath" and are willing to rewrite history and that her first and only three years in the business have been successful than the Timeless Love Bombs. Mina then states that they are here for the women's tag team title and propose a toast for a fight to remember.
Tony Schiavone is in the ring to interview Prince Nana and Swerve Strickland. Swerve talks about how he was on the shelf for three months or surgery, rehabbing and rebuilding into the most dangerous version of himself that anyone has ever seen to become AEW World Champion again. He says that when he was champion, he made business simple and backed up what he said. Swerve then addresses Samoa Joe, saying that Joe is now ducking him because he beat him for the title during his first reign and got the biggest moment off of Samoa Joe while also making history. He then says he has to go through Opps Dojo students like it is Dynasty Warriors just to get through to The Opps (Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs, Hook, Katsuyori Shibata) and take back the World title, and that Joe will once again fall to him. Swerve then addresses "Hangman" Adam Page, admitting that while they have not always seen eye-to-eye, there has never been a better rivalry than theirs. He knows that Hangman wants another desperado to ride along The Opps, and says he will back Hangman up at Winter is Coming for one night only before they have a very serious conversation. Suddenly, "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander interrupts, saying he could not stand it anymore and that Swerve was spouting "lies and half-truths," and says that while the fans love Swerve and that Swerve was a great champion, this is Don Callis' house now. He says that since Swerve has been gone, The Don Callis Family has increased its grip on AEW and that it is not loosening that grip anytime soon. He also says that Don Callis is not here tonight because he would not be caught dead in Ohio, then reminds Swerve that "The Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada is the one who injured his knee and took him out for three months and states that he is surprised that Swerve is not seeking revenge. He also takes exception to Swerve thinking he can walk back into AEW after three or four months and just get a World title shot, then brags about beating Will Ospreay and Kota Ibushi, even going so far as to brag about injuring Ibushi to the point that his career was put into question after he broke his femur. He also brags about facing Kenny Omega and winning one million dollars for The Don Callis Family. Swerve asks Alexander what he wants, and Alexander says that if anyone deserves a title shot, it is him, and that they should fight over who gets a World title shot. He says that "the freaks and furries" in tonight's crowd do not deserve this match, and Swerve proposes they have their match at Winter is Coming. As Swerve threatens to beat Alexander's ass, he is clipped at the right knee from behind by Katsuyori Shibata. Alexander tells Swerve he will see him next week.
We hear from Eddie Kingston backstage. Eddie says that he has been wrestling for 25 years and dreaming of being a wrestler since he was 9 years old, and that he now has an opportunity to beat Samoa Joe for the AEW World Championship. He says Samoa Joe cannot get in his head because he is in his own head every day and because he cares too much for professional wrestling and for AEW and feels that some younger guys are going down a road that he does not respect and is not good for professional wrestling. He says that AEW was supposed to be different and that people were supposed to be rewarded for winning, working hard and being the best, but when he came back, everything changed. He says that he finds Samoa Joe disgusting, as he was supposed to lead and is now doing what he used to hate. Eddie says he wants change, and that he has the opportunity not only to beat Samoa Joe, but to show the younger guys that they can do things the right way and do what AEW was supposed to be.
Backstage, Triangle of Madness (Julia Hart, Skye Blue, "The Toxic Spider" Thekla) are seen attacking numerous wrestlers before Julia Hart and Skye Blue state that "Sisters of Sin, we come for the win." Thekla says that they will see their competition in Cardiff, Wales.
Ricochet retains the AEW National Championship against Ace Austin after using the referee as a human shield. After the match, FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) attack Austin, then The Bang Bang Gang (Juice Robinson and Austin Gunn) make the save. FTR try to use the tag team titles as weapon, but The Bang Bang Gang duck and hit multiple right jabs, forcing FTR to retreat so they can celebrate with the tag team titles.
"The Alpha" Konosuke Takeshita beats Jon Moxley by pinfall in the Blue League of the Continental Classic. "The Alpha" Konosuke Takeshita earns three points and now has six points, while Jon Moxley still has three.
In footage from earlier today, a limousine pulls up outside of the WrestleCenter, and Jerry "The King" Lawler steps out of it and is greeted by the Memphis Wrestling fans.
Dustin Starr interviews "The Chosen One" Zay Washington and Justin Case at the announce desk. Washington calls "The Problem" Aaron Roberts out to the announce desk, and Roberts shows up. Justin Case suddenly says there is no problem even though there is a problem, then Zay Washington blames Aaron Roberts for losing the Internet Championship and says he did everything for him. Roberts says he did everything to bring Washington to his level, yet Washington is still called "Aaron's bitch." Justin Case says that Roberts is the problem now and is starting to believe the fans, whom he has had it with, while poking Roberts in the chest. Justin Case then slaps Roberts as he tells him to fall in line, and Roberts grabs Justin Case, starting a brawl that referees and security quickly have to quell. Roberts then leaves through the face entrance and exit.
Jerry "The King" Lawler enters the WrestleCenter and meets with Matchmaker King Cobra and Derrick King.
It is announced that "The Problem" Aaron Roberts will face "The Chosen One" Zay Washington in next week's main event.
Marko "Hangtime" Harris retains the Memphis Wrestling Internet Championship against VaShawn Harvey despite interference attempts by Oso.
We see more footage of Jerry "The King" Lawler at the WrestleCenter, this time with the fans.
Dustin Starr interviews Jerry "The King" Lawler at the announce desk. Lawler says he has had a nice time at the WrestleCenter and thanks the fans for being here today, and says that while the venue is just like the TV station of the Memphis Wrestling of old, it is great. Lawler admits that he has had his health problems as of late in recent years, and says that Christmas Day would be a great day to come back to Memphis Wrestling.
Jake Brewer announces that "The Gift" Ray Sanders will be returning as early as next week despite not being medically cleared until the new year, and that Sycho Simon remains suspended indefinitely.
Marko Stunt is suddenly greeted by Wonder Boy and The Shocker when he arrives, and they ask him to manage them to tag team gold. The three of them then "plug it in."
The Super Friends (Wonder Boy and The Shocker) vs. The Bizness Dawgs (Tim Grind and Lil' Homie) for the Memphis Wrestling Tag Team Championships ends with The Slaughterhouse (Reverend Ash Taylor, Jagged James, Nasty Nick) attacking everyone. Ash Taylor puts Tim Grind in a mandible claw with a glove as he demands The Modern Day Monsters (Bruce and Marrow). The Bizness Dawgs (Tim Grind and Lil' Homie) retain the Memphis Wrestling Tag Team Championships.
Backstage, Derrick King meets with Jerry "The King" Lawler, and says he would not be king if it were not for Lawler. Lawler is reminded of the many times they have been in the ring as they shake hands.
In backstage footage from earlier today, DJ Klaun and Big Daddy meet. Big Daddy things Big John Dalton will win against K-Toomer, but DJ Klaun thinks K-Toomer will beat Big John Dalton.
Marko Stunt guests on commentary for the next match.
Big John Dalton beats K-Toomer by disqualification after K-Toomer puts Big John Dalton in a sleeper hold and refuses to let go even after Big John Dalton grabs the bottom rope. After the match, K-Toomer hits Big John Dalton with a thrust kick, then chokes him with a chair. Big Daddy and DJ Klaun show up to reason with K-Toomer, and as Klaun gets out of the ring, Big Daddy stops K-Toomer from hitting Big John with the chair. K-Toomer smacks Big Daddy in the face, then hits Big John Dalton with a spinning heel kick before putting Big Daddy in a sleeper. Referees and security immediately get involved and get K-Toomer off of Big John Dalton. K-Toomer hits Big John Dalton with a chair as Big John is protecting Big Daddy, then the show ends.
We look back on Kurt Angle vs. Bobby Roode in a steel cage match from Genesis 2014.
We look back on The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy), Steve Maclin and Cedric Alexander vs. Lexis King, Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo, Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe from last night's show.
The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance) beat Mila Moore and Jada Stone after Mila Moore leaves Jada Stone high and dry and Jada Stone confronts her for it. As this goes on, Victoria Crawford and Tessa Blanchard show up, and Crawford attacks Jada Stone and throws her back in the ring as the referee is distracted by M by Elegance. After the match, Mila Moore celebrates with Tessa and Crawford before the three of them run away when Myla Grace and Harley Hudson run into the ring and help Jada Stone up.
Drew McIntyre steps out of a white Dodge Ram only to be confronted by General Manager Nick Aldis and security. Aldis immediately tells McIntyre to leave, but as McIntyre gets in his car, he is suddenly attacked by "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, who security holds back. Cody makes his way to the ring to start tonight's show, then calls McIntyre out for invading his tour bus and proceeds to call him "WWE's resident cockroach." Cody says that McIntyre may not have beaten him, but he has definitely broken him, and he appeals to General Manager Nick Aldis to unsuspend McIntyre so he can "stomp [the cockroach] out."
Backstage, #DIY (Johnny Gargano, Tommaso Ciampa, Candice LeRae) still has Axiom's mask as they plan how to get back to the top of the tag team division. Ciampa says that when he is done with Ilja Dragunov, he will be United States Champion. Carmelo Hayes shows up and tells them to reschedule that, saying he has next before calling Ciampa a jackass despite #DIY's shirts telling people not to call Ciampa a jackass.
We hear from Damian Priest, who says that he has heard Aleister Black talk in circles for too long before proclaiming that Aleister will not break him and that he is only delaying the inevitable. Damian says that if Aleister will bring in Zelina Vega, he will bring in Rhea Ripley. Rhea shows up and says that Zelina made the mistake of poking the bear without thinking she would show up, and says that she just signed her death warrant and that she and Aleister will find out why nobody survives "The Terror Twins."
Ilja Dragunov retains the WWE United States Championship against Carmelo Hayes after Tommaso Ciampa shows up and shoves Carmelo off the top rope as referee Charles Robinson checks on Dragunov.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss. Charlotte says she joined Alexa's WarGames team because it meant so much to her, and Alexa says that while WarGames did do Charlotte good, it made their bond stronger. Charlotte now looks forward to winning back the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
We see a video package of highlights from the Last Time is Now Tournament.
Backstage, Cathy Kelly interviews LA Knight. LA Knight says he does not want to repeat himself too much and says the last time is now between him and Gunther. He says that Gunther may be a former world champion, but he is an unstoppable force, and if Gunther wants a fight, he will give him one and drop him on his head.
We look back on John Cena's match with "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles from Royal Rumble 2017.
Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe is seen in the front row before the next match.
Alexa Bliss beats Kairi Sane after Charlotte Flair takes out Asuka on the outside. After the match, Charlotte and Alexa are attacked from behind by Nia Jax and Lash Legend. Asuka gets in the ring and fights off Lash and Nia, but Nia headbutts Asuka and knocks her out. Kairi attacks Nia, but Lash Legend takes her out and readies Kairi for an A-Nia-Lator, which Asuka saves Kairi from. Nia and Lash raise up the women's tag team titles.
Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes meets with General Manager Nick Aldis. Oba Femi and Ricky Saints are in Aldis' office, with Oba wondering why they are both her, as is Saints. Cody introduces himself, then says that whoever wins between them at Deadline faces him at Saturday Night's Main Event next week.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Nia Jax and Lash Legend. Nia says The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) got what they deserved after Asuka spit blue mist in Lash's face and caused them to lose WarGames. Lash says that they are coming for the Women's Tag Team Championships and that there is nothing anyone can do about it.
Jade Cargill quickly beats Alba Fyre after Kiana James and Giulia show up and attack Chelsea Green on the outside.
Backstage, Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axion) meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, wanting a match with #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa). Ilja Dragunov shows up and says that Tommaso Ciampa is begging for his attention and wants a match with Ciampa. Dragunov gets his match, then tells Fraxiom that they will get what is left of Ciampa next week. Dragunov then turns around and comes face to face with The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo).
Backstage, Jade Cargill runs into B-Fab again, but she is soon met by "Michin" Mia Yim, who confronts Jade again, saying she does not understand friendship. This soon leads to another match, as Jade says she will meet with General Manager Nick Aldis regarding a rematch.
The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) head to the ring. Solo Sikoa says they did what they said they would do and took Sami Zayn out, and now, he and his family can move on, which brings him to The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross). He says that Uncle Howdy has been watching his family, but they have been watching him. He introduces Uncle Howdy to his family tree, then says Howdy's family has something that belongs to his: the WWE Tag Team titles. Solo warns Uncle Howdy that everything that was Bray Wyatt's and is now Howdy's will soon become his, as he is going to take everything from him that he loves and show everyone that Howdy does not deserve the name "Wyatt." He says he will do this because he can, and that all he has to do is "Bo-lieve." We then see a rebuttal from The Wyatt Sicks, who show up on the apron when the lights go out. Solo turns their back on them all, but comes face-to-face with Uncle Howdy. The MFT's are behind Howdy, and Howdy is not afraid before he and Solo brawl, with everyone else soon jumping in. Everything comes down between Talla Tonga and Erick Rowan, and Rowan overpowers Talla. The Wyatt Sicks stand tall in the ring while The MFT's stand down.
Backstage, The Miz meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, but gets upset when he is not even on Saturday Night's Main Event. Aldis is also aware of the bait and switch he pulled last week. Bayley shows up and thanks Aldis, and Miz gets upset and leaves. Nick Aldis reminds Bayley that her opponent is none other than Sol Ruca, who shows up. Bayley reminds her that she has been watching her and that SmackDown is another level, but Sol Ruca says she is aware. Bayley tells Sol Ruca that she will be watching her at Deadline.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Gunther, who says that he will beat LA Knight and then beat John Cena in his final match. He says that while there is a whole locker room full of passionate superstars who want this chance, the tournament is a forgone conclusion. He says that Cena can see him, and he wants him to pay attention to how he will beat LA Knight tonight.
We hear from Aleister Black. He says that Damian Priest has stood too long by people who did not stand by him, then says he will be the one to give it to Priest straight and tell him that he left him the perfect monster. Zelina Vega shows up and brings up their collective past on the main roster, stating that Rhea Ripley wants to keep Priest in her cage of control and that what she is doing is only hastening the inevitable. Aleister says that if Priest wants an inferno, then he will guide him through one.
We see a John Cena interview snippet about the fraternity of pro wrestling.
Gunther beats LA Knight by submission with a cravat to win the Last Time is Now Tournament and face John Cena at Saturday Night's Main Event.
